Palm Springs is a beloved summer escape for native Californians and wanna-be Californians alike. And what’s not to love? Warm desert air, blue skies, world-renowned golf courses…and did we mention all the pool parties?
Summer time is when Palm Springs comes alive for Splash House 2019, aka the Coachella of pool parties. But whether your idea of taking a load off means spending a long night dancing poolside or spending a long morning out on the links, Palm Springs is sure to please every type of palate.
Speaking of palate, did you know Greater Palm Springs Restaurant Week happens in early June every year? You can taste the very best cuisines that the region has to offer at a fraction of the price. But save room to visit one of the many gourmet ice cream shops in the area that are sure to satisfy your sweet tooth after.
And the cherry on top? You won’t be fighting any crowds. Summer is off-season in Palm Springs, meaning you’ll have even more space to yourself to golf, shop, float in the pool — you name it.
From sumptuous ice cream shops to endless poolside escapes, here are 5 reasons why the Greater Palm Springs Area is the perfect summer escape.
1. Glut Yourself at Greater Palm Springs Restaurant Week
Palm Springs has no shortage of exquisite dining options that are sure to get your mouth watering. But with so many tempting choices, where do you go to find the very best bites that the Coachella Valley has to offer?
Enter: Greater Palm Springs Restaurant Week. Taking place every year in early June, you can discover unique local dishes at amazing price points served up by over 100 local participating restaurants. This event alone draws foodies from far and wide to delight in the most delicious dishes the desert is serving up.
2. Party at the Pool
Let’s face it — during those long winter days, most of us are craving lounging by a pool with sun on our face and a drink in our hand. During the summer in Palm Springs, hanging by the pool isn’t just an occasional delight — it’s a way of life.
During the weekends of June 7-9 and August 9-11, neighborhood hotels and swim clubs come together for Splash House, a music-filled weekend of non-stop pool partying. This can’t-miss aquatic affair is spread out over two weekends and is spread across 3 resorts in Palm Springs: Renaissance Palm Springs, The Saguaro Hotel & Pool, and Riviera Palm Springs.
For a more laid-back experience, head on over to the hip ARRIVE hotel to dip your feet in the water or catch a movie during their Dive-in Movie Series, which is free and open to everyone 21 and over.
3. Find Fun for the Whole Family
Photo courtesy of omnihotels.com
Who says fun at the pool is just for late night partiers? You can fly down waterslides, float down lazy rivers, and make memories under cabanas at one of the many Greater Palm Springs water venues:
- Splashtopia at Omni Rancho Las Palmas Resort & Spa
- Sandy Pool at Renaissance Indian Wells Resort & Spa
- Desert Pipe at Hyatt Regency Indian Wells Resort & Spa
These attractions aren’t just water parks — you and your family can book a relaxing room at any of these resorts, so you can stay where you play. Don’t forget to book a couples’ spa day for a romantic afternoon while your kiddos go wild down the water slides!
4. Treat Yo’ Self
Desert desserts, anyone? For those of you who have been eagerly waiting to hear more about the ice cream shops we mentioned earlier, we won’t torture you any longer. Just like the plethora of pool parties, Palm Springs is expert at serving up sweet treats to help you stay cool (and look cool) with the most Instagrammable ice cream shops around.
The Ice Cream & Shoppe is a famed favorite of locals and out-of-towners. Don’t let the old-timey name fool you — this ice creamery is full of surprising and unique flavors that aren’t just for kids (pass the blackberry cabernet sorbet, please!)
For the vegans and coffee lovers, Kreem is your one-stop-shop for hand-crafted ice cream, coffee floats, and other ice-cold caffeinated delights from Heart Coffee Roasters. Or you can be transported to a tropical destination by one Lappert’s Ice Cream’s 50 daily flavors, including tantalizing tropical flavors like Kauai Pie, Caramel Coconut Macadamia Nut, Kona Coffee, Date Casablanca and more.
The fun doesn’t stop here. Save room throughout the week to try Great Shakes and Nitroinfusions, too!
5. Spread Out
Those who frequent the Coachella Valley know that visiting in the summer is the region’s best kept secret. While the summer months of June through August are considered to be a slower time of year for the region, it’s also the best time for visitors to experience the valley with fewer crowds and less traffic.