City life can be exhilarating, but the constant churn fueled by triple espresso shots can leave you feeling like a hamster on a wheel. If it’s barely hump day, and you’re already dreaming of poolside margaritas, maybe it’s time for a break. A few boozy brunches, lounging by the pool, and a hike or gallery tour might just be the recharge needed before returning to the Monday morning grind.
Since work is all about sticking to an agenda, a weekend itinerary just won’t do. Instead, we’ve created this handy guide, offering insider tips on Palm Spring highlights you won’t want to miss. Pick what suits your mood, linger if you like, and conquer your Palm Springs weekend like the pro that you are!
A weekend escape wouldn’t be complete without hitting the legendary Palm Springs brunch scene. Here are a few of our favorites!
Voted ‘best breakfast’ for three consecutive years, this is comfort food at its best, featuring dishes like short ribs, eggs benedict, churro waffles, and griddled meatloaf and eggs.
Open for brunch every day of the week and serving breakfast all day long, this popular eatery offers a tempting menu with gluten-free, vegan, and vegetarian options. Go light with a smoothie and grapefruit, or go all in with the lobster and asparagus omelet.
Renowned as one of the best drag brunches in Palm Springs, the show is only part of the fun. Whether eating a stack of buttermilk pancakes or Texas French toast, Oscar’s keeps the party going with a lively atmosphere and infectious energy.
The restaurant choices in Palm Springs are endless, featuring everything from farm-to-table specialties to globally inspired dishes. Consider snagging a reservation before leaving town for the weekend—these hotspots fill up fast!
Delicious food, generous portions, and homemade tortillas attract people from all walks of life, eager to experience some of the best Mexican food in the area.
This Italian cafe is known for homemade pasta with a Milanese twist. If undecided on what to order, try the Birba pizza, sit back, and enjoy people-watching in the beautiful outdoor setting.
This charming restaurant features impeccable service, a homey patio, and a menu of traditional European dishes showcasing fresh seasonal ingredients.
Craving a little outdoor time without a full-day commitment? Here are a few hiking trails you can kick out in under an hour, then back to the pool in time for a sunset dip!
2.0 mile loop | moderate | 324 ft elevation gain | duration: 1 hour
This beautiful canyon near downtown is a popular area for hikers and runners, so you’ll likely pass others on your way to the 60-foot Tahquitz Falls, which spills into a crystal-clear pool.
2.5 mile loop | easy | 50 ft elevation gain | duration: 1 hour
Take the scenic route on the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway, register for a wilderness permit, and then check out the views of the valley below.
3.7 mile out & back | moderate | 538 ft elevation gain | duration: 1.5 hours
Known to locals but virtually undiscovered by visitors, this rarely crowded trail traverses through the desert, past a glistening stream, to a breathtaking waterfall.
After a long week of seriously crushing it, you deserve to unwind, and what better way than with a killer happy hour? Here are a few that won’t disappoint:
Whether on the patio or in the lounge, you’ll find impeccable service, a casual atmosphere, and a diverse menu featuring delicious food and tempting small bites.
This kitschy bar offers hand-crafted tiki cocktails, from classic Mai Tais to playful originals. Enjoy your beautifully garnished refreshments on rattan chairs under the warm glow of dim lights.
Whether you’re a first-timer or a repeat visitor, the laid-back outdoor space is ideal for enjoying a refreshing cocktail and a few sharable plates with friends.
On the off chance you might want to get in a bit of culture between dodging pool noodles and perfecting your tan, these attractions should be at the top of the list:
Take a tram ride to the top of Mount San Jacinto State Park. Even if you don’t opt for a hike, the views on the two-and-a-half-mile journey are spectacular.
Check out ever-evolving works of art, sculptures, and interesting objects presented in over two dozen galleries, then pop outside for a stroll in the sculpture garden.
See dozens of aircraft from Korea, Vietnam, WWII, and the Cold War displayed indoors and out. Double the fun and book a 30-minute flight in a vintage warbird!
Palm Springs unwinds a little differently, and here it’s all about swanky supper clubs, chill lounges, and open-air bars under the stars. Here are a few standouts:
This sizeable rooftop bar transforms into a bustling scene come nightfall, drawing locals and visitors alike with specialty cocktails, crisp wines, and crowd-pleasing frozen margaritas—all within walking distance of trendy shops and restaurants on Palm Canyon Drive.
You’ll have no problem getting into the Palm Springs spirit in this aviation-themed speakeasy featuring airline-themed cocktails, servers in vintage uniforms, shareable plates, and live entertainment.
This legendary spot is ideal for enjoying classic cocktails while catching local comedians and musicians, celebrity impersonators, and some of the best drag performances in Palm Springs.
At ACME House Company, we understand your warrior spirit and want to make settling into the weekend as easy as possible. That’s why we offer a curated selection of stunning vacation rentals, ensuring your Palm Springs weekend is as comfortable and convenient as it is unforgettable!
ABOUT ACME HOUSE COMPANY: ACME manages Luxury Vacation Rental Homes & Condos in Greater Palm Springs and the surrounding desert cities, catering to those looking to travel to the world-renowned destination for the season, week-long stays and extended weekends. Fabulous pool homes for when you and your peeps want some together time. Visit ACME's Website to explore more Palm Springs Vacation Rentals.
Images courtesy of Visit Greater Palm Springs and Visit Palm Springs