what i did, what i wore: palm springs
10: a mini guide of where to stay, where to eat and what to do
Just a couple hours from Los Angeles, Palm Springs is my favorite place to visit in California for a weekend getaway or even a little day trip. I got married there years ago and since then, my parter and I visit at least once or twice a year (if not more). We went back in August, again in November and just got back again, visiting once more as a last babymoon staycation.
Instead of listing out the few things we did just this past weekend, I’m going to share my favorite spots in general — including where to stay, where to eat and what to do.
Paid subscribers will also get access to a detailed list of the outfits I packed and wore with links.
Where to stay
Korakia Pensione: This isn’t just one of my favorite places to stay in Palm Springs, but one of my favorite places in the entire world. I’ve had so many special memories here and even though I’ve stayed here more times than I can count, I never get sick of it. It’s a little oasis in the desert that transports you to Morocco or the Mediterranean (depending on which side of the hotel you decide to stay in) that’s so peaceful and relaxing. The rooms are charming, the two pools are serene and they play an old movie in their outdoor courtyard each and every night. This is by far my number one recommendation — I can’t rave about it enough
Desert Lookout: I stayed here a few years ago with my cousins, mom and aunt. It was the perfect spot for a larger group with 3 rooms in the house. It’s full of chic midcentury furniture and it was nice to have a place to ourselves
Parker Palm Springs: To be honest, I don’t normally stay anywhere besides Korakia, but I’ve stayed at the Parker a couple times and enjoyed it. It’s a much bigger property than Korakia and is kid-friendly (unlike my favorite hotel). There are restaurants, multiple pools and lots of lounge areas on site
Sparrows Lodge: I’ve never stayed here myself, but my friend has a bunch and loves it — it’s basically her Korakia
Where to eat
Before I share this list, I want to preface by saying that in general, the food in Palm Springs is not great — so take these suggestions with a grain of salt! While I feel passionately about my food recommendations for Los Angeles, the options in Palm Springs I feel less strongly about. What I will say, though, is that of all the places I’ve tried here (which is quite a bit), these are the ones I’d actually go back to:
Rooster and the Pig: Tasty Vietnamese-American cuisine!
Mr. Lyons: I found this spot on Reddit after searching for restaurants here that are actually good. Some raved about how much they love it while others got mad at them for not gatekeeping it more. We really enjoyed our meal — it was yummy and the waiters were SO kind and friendly. I suggest trying the potato chip salad, prime rib and sticky toffee pudding (just mush the cake into the syrup and ice cream!)
The Sandwich Spot: I’m not normally a huge sandwich person, but I went here both times in my last couple visits to Palm Springs — I get The Chairman of the Board
Bar Cecil: I’ve only gone for dessert after a meal, but I’ve been meaning to go back to try their food — my friends love it!
Birba: I’m not a big Italian food lover to begin with (I know, I know), but they did have solid pizzas and salads
Workshop Kitchen + Bar: The space is super chic and the food is decent, too
What to do
Honestly, when I go to Palm Springs I hardly leave Korakia Pensione unless it’s for lunch or dinner, but these may be worth checking out…
Frey House II: Sleek, minimal architecture house with gorgeous views — tours only on Saturdays!
Vintage shops: While I haven’t explored them myself, I would definitely try to visit another time
Palm Springs Art Museum: Been meaning to go for some time now…
Paid subscribers have access to the details of the outfits I wore below, along with full access to previous pieces: Japan recommendations and outfit diary, every product I packed for my month-long trip and my most worn items of 2024.
What I packed
Below you’ll find pieces I wear over and over again (no matter the occasion — staycation or in everyday life), the designer bag I may or may not have recently splurged on, secondhand and vintage designer and a sheer skirt, bikini and trousers in rich, dark brown hues.
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