Photo by Bethany Young Photography

Palm Springs has been very high on my list of places to visit ever since I was a little girl. Thanks to my amazing grandparents, and the fact that I'm actually an 80 year old woman trapped in a 20-something's body, I grew up watching classic films with my sisters. Instead of enjoying Saturday morning cartoons, we were mesmerized by films like My Fair Lady, How To Marry A Millionaire and Pillow Talk. Needless to say, after my grandparents told us about a place called Palm Springs where the classic Hollywood legends used to go to have fun, I put it at the top of my "must visit" list. 

I was just in Los Angeles (travel guide coming soon), and convinced my good friend Kendall to drive out to Palm Springs with me for a couple days. I've known Kendall since she was in high school - she was a model in the first professional editorial shoot I ever did, and we instantly connected. She's been a great friend / model-muse for me ever since, and I'm so proud of all that she's accomplished in her modeling career so far! [Friend brag: Kendall has shot campaigns for Ban.do, Hurley, Free People and tons more] Her great musician boyfriend, Jordon, joined us and we hit the open road - leaving the hustle and bustle of LA in our rear view windows. Here's what we discovered, and loved...

RELAX

Ace Hotel

Where do I even start. I really, really loved the Ace - The minimalist vibe with perfectly placed pops of color, the huge pillow as a headboard, the orange trees, the Martin guitar in the lobby, the outdoor fireplaces, the canvas draped walls... I mean, this hotel is great. Here are some photos I took while we were there...

The Saguaro Palm Springs

Color, color, color, color! When you picture Palm Springs in all its mid-century, colorful glory, you're basically seeing the Saguaro. Each room has an assigned color that fills the space with vibrant life. The balconies overlook the pool and courtyard, which is filled with hammocks, picnic tables and colorful lounge chairs. Enjoy these photos I took from our time at the Saguaro...

Airbnb

Airbnb is always a great option when traveling! I didn't stay in any while in Palm Springs, but I know there are some incredible spaces you can stay in.

ROAM

The Frippery 

A bright and inspiring men's and women's vintage clothing and accessory boutique.

Ice Cream & Shop(pe)

Half gift shop, half ice cream parlor - what's not to love?!

Just Fabulous Palm Springs

Fun gift shop with entertaining decor, coffee table books, stationery etc.

Windmill Fields

It's impossible to miss all of the beautiful white windmills as you drive into Palm Springs from LA - Our favorite spot to pull over and take photos was along North Indian Canyon Drive, right off of Highway 10.

Mid-Century Architecture

What's a trip to Palm Springs without seeing the iconic pink door house?? (1100 E Sierra Way) The city has also put together a self-guided tour of staple architectural buildings that you can find here. Instead of following their tour map, we drove around at will and saw many incredible structures.

Photo by Bethany Young Photography

REFRESH

Birba

Incredible food, perfect ambiance, outdoor garden eating.. I loooove this place! Their pizza is incredible - just order it. I'd also recommend making a reservation.

Customs Coffee

This little coffee shop had one killer chai tea latte - probably my favorite in the whole city. Customs serves organic coffee roasted by Joshua Tree Coffee Company. They also have fun t-shirts for sale with cute sayings like, "Explore the Desert" and "I want to sleep with you in the desert tonight."

Ernest Coffee

What's not to love about Ernest Coffee? They serve Stumptown Coffee, wine, beer and champagne, along with a menu of sweet and savory snacks. 

King's Highway

King's Highway is a diner located at the Ace Hotel. Their menu is committed to heirloom ingredients and locally-sourced produce, making this retro place right on trend. I highly recommend the coconut latte! Enjoy these photos I took while dining at King's Highway...

Reservoir

Reservoir is located at the Arrive Hotel, and has an ultra cool vibe. We sat outside, which provided us with a view of the pool, rustic wood tables and fun colorful tile. We ate breakfast and it definitely hit the spot! You can make a reservation here.

El Jefe

El Jefe is a Mexican restaurant located inside the Saguaro Hotel. They offer fresh fruit margaritas, daily happy hour, Taco Tuesday and delicious nachos. 

Norma's 

We didn't make it over to Norma's on this trip, but I've only heard great things about their food and ambiance! Located inside the Parker Hotel, they offer comfort food and breakfast all day. Make a reservation here.

I highly recommend going to Palm Springs - I really loved it. If you have a heart for mid-century design, classic Hollywood and/or pool-side relaxation, then Palm Springs is definitely for you. While you're there, add a day and go out to Joshua Tree National Park - you can find my travel guide on this desert oasis here!