Palm Springs, California, is a desert city that mixes natural beauty, celebrity history, vibrant culture, and tasty food. You can enjoy 24 hours in Palm Springs. No matter if you love mid-century modern buildings, celebrity homes, or lovely landscapes, there’s something for everyone.
Let’s explore a perfect day in this desert paradise, highlighting must-see sites, foods, drinks, and adventures.
We kicked off our Palm Springs visit with a stroll to some quirky landmarks. The oversized Marilyn Monroe statue catches your eye with its playful charm. Snapping a photo beside this giant statue captures Palm Springs’ fun link to Hollywood’s golden age. Despite its fame, the area felt uncrowded, letting us appreciate it fully.
A short walk away is the bronze statue of Lucille Ball, another nod to classic Hollywood. Sitting with “Lucy,” we reflected on her impact on television. These statues do more than decorate the city—they celebrate its rich ties to celebrity culture and set a cheerful tone for our day.
When hunger strikes, Sherman’s Deli is a must-visit. This New York-style deli delights with huge sandwiches stacked high with pastrami and corned beef. The nostalgic atmosphere, with celebrity photos on the walls, makes it feel like a classic New York eatery—even in the heart of California’s desert.
The sandwiches are so filling that you might skip dinner. But if you’re still hungry, Sherman’s dessert menu awaits. With friendly staff and authentic flavours, Sherman’s Deli is a culinary gem in Palm Springs, especially for hearty fare.
No trip to Palm Springs is complete without glimpsing its famous residents. We visited Two Palms, Frank Sinatra’s former home, set against a stunning mountain backdrop. The property is privately owned and out of sight, but standing outside brings to mind the Rat Pack’s famous poolside parties.
This stop connects you to Palm Springs’ celebrity past and shows why stars like Sinatra loved the area’s beauty and privacy. It’s a quiet reminder of the city’s allure as a playground for Hollywood’s elite.
After exploring, we unwound at the Tonga Hut Tiki Bar. Known for its tropical drinks like the Painkiller and Piña Colada, the bar’s lively yet cozy vibe makes it a favourite. The drinks were refreshing, perfect for the desert heat.
A hidden gem at Tonga Hut is its upstairs speakeasy, where Hemingway readings sometimes occur. This intimate setting adds a cultural twist to your evening, blending literature with fun socialising.
It’s a unique experience that captures Palm Springs’ mix of sophistication and enjoyment.
Palm Springs isn’t just about glamour and cocktails; it also boasts stunning natural attractions. Indian Canyons is perfect for experiencing the desert’s rugged beauty.
We tackled a moderate hiking trail that turned into a mix of running, hiking, and bouldering. The trail had cool water crossings, palm trees, and a few waterfalls. This was a lovely surprise in the desert.
With a $12 entrance fee, Indian Canyons gives access to multiple trails, including the famous Palm Canyon. The scenery and physical challenge made for an exhilarating outdoor experience.
The palm trees and cool streams provided a refreshing contrast to the desert heat.
After a day of exploration, nothing beats relaxing by a pool with a margarita or cocktail. Palm Springs’ warm nights and clear skies create the ideal atmosphere for unwinding outdoors. Whether at a hotel or a private home, poolside relaxation lets you soak in the tranquility of the desert night and reflect on the day’s adventures.
During our journey, we tasted Jim Beam’s Claremont Steep, a 94-proof American single malt whiskey aged five years. Unlike traditional bourbons, this whiskey has notes of coffee, caramel, licorice, and mint. It’s smooth, with a natural sweetness that sets it apart. Pairing it with beer made it an easy and satisfying drink on the road.
This whiskey is perfect for anyone new to American single malts. It has complexity but doesn’t overwhelm with strong flavours. It’s a versatile spirit, perfect for sipping while taking in stunning desert views.
Palm Springs offers a variety of experiences in a compact area. From Hollywood’s charm, with its giant statues and celebrity homes, to tasty deli sandwiches and tropical cocktails, every moment sparkles. Add beautiful desert hikes and unique drinks like Jim Beam’s Claremont Steep. You’ll enjoy a day full of culture, adventure, and relaxation.
Palm Springs invites first-time visitors and returning guests to experience its charm, vibrant culture, and natural beauty—all in just 24 hours.
Shihab is the ultimate insider, dedicated to exploring and documenting the best-kept secrets of Palm Springs. I moved to the area 13 years ago and has been on a mission ever since to find the most unique design, dining, and stay experiences. Follow along to unlock the exclusive side of this iconic desert escape.
