Greater Palm Springs: Celebrate Spring in this Southern California Oasis

Warm days and cool nights. Sunshine, al fresco dining and a comfy bed with a view of the San Jacinto Mountains. Is it a mirage? No – it's Greater Palm Springs. One of the most welcoming LGBTQ destinations in the country, Greater Palm Springs is the very definition of paradise.
It's no wonder that Hollywood's hottest stars like Rock Hudson, Tab Hunter and so many others flocked to this desert oasis. But you don't need to be a celebrity to enjoy all that Greater Palm Springs has to offer.

And with spring's arrival, there's no better time to take it outside to appreciate all that the region has to offer. Here's a look at some of our favorite Greater Palm Springs vacation ideas to get you started. For a deeper dive, check out www.visitgreaterpalmsprings.com.

By Foot or Four-Wheeler, Experience the Best of Greater Palm Springs

With more than 300 days of sunshine each year, Greater Palm Springs offers spots to hang out with Mother Nature, but for those that prefer pulse-raising activities or an adrenaline rush, here are just a few of our favorite things to do in Greater Palm Springs.

Trailicious Hiking Pass – Use this free mobile pass as a personal guide for dozens of trails, outdoor art and dining deals throughout Greater Palm Springs. The easy-to-use interface includes plenty of hikes for all levels, each paired with a public art selection. Just click on the "Feed Your Adventure" button for a list of participating restaurants, each extending a discount or special offer for pass users.

Desert Adventures Open-Air Jeep Tours – Hop on board! There's no better way to experience Greater Palm Springs' dramatic landscape than by open-air jeep. Desert Adventures has been a mainstay since 1987, gaining a reputation for exhilarating and informative tours of some of the region's most acclaimed natural wonders. Wear solid hiking shoes for the combination tours that bring participants to the San Andreas Fault, Andreas Creek, Joshua Tree National Park and other can't-miss sites.

Big Wheel Tours – Whether you want two wheels or four, Big Wheel Tours can accommodate. Bike tours include the "Earthquake Canyon Express," a 20-mile ride that descends through the epicenter of the San Andreas Fault zone on a paved road to the heart of grape country near Mecca, and can be customized based on interest and skill level. Don't feel like pedaling? Book a jeep or SUV tour and pack a selfie stick to capture the ultimate desert snapshot.

Bring Your Appetite

Greater Palm Springs is no stranger to outdoor dining. Many restaurants offer al fresco seating options to take in the sites and scenery along with a great meal. Here are just a few picks as an amuse-bouche for what Greater Palm Springs has to offer hungry travelers.

Pinocchio in the Desert – Plant yourself for the afternoon and watch passers-by on Tahquitz Canyon in downtown Palm Springs while enjoying all-day happy hour (bottomless champagne, anyone?) and comfort food like Hawaiian pancakes or the signature Bavarian meatloaf dip.

La Quinta Cliffhouse Grill & Bar – Located in La Quinta, this hidden gem features a second-story cliffside patio and classic American fare. Hickory-smoked ribs, diver sea scallops and rigatoni Bolognese are among the favorites.

Eight4Nine – From misoyaki-glazed Chilean sea bass to decadent desserts (don't miss the Brandini Toffee s'mores fondue with house-made marshmallows), each dish's artful presentation reminds diners that Greater Palm Springs is a celebration of both style and substance.

Do Not Disturb

You may want to linger an extra day, or at the very least, request a late check-out to indulge in the unique amenities and accommodations throughout Greater Palm Springs. From clothing-optional to LGBTQ-friendly hotel groups and boutique offerings, there's someplace suited for every style and budget.

Vista Grande – This clothing-optional men's resort features two pools, a multi-level garden, lagoon, sauna and steam room. Discounts for extended stays make the Vista Grande an ideal spot for a work/play getaway, especially with the LGBTQ-friendly Arenas District nearby.

JW Marriott Desert Springs Resort & Spa – Let the past year melt away at this Palm Desert luxury resort with plenty of outdoor space to relax and rejuvenate. Marriott has been a longtime supporter and advocate for the LGBTQ community, most recently earning another perfect score on HRC's Corporate Equality Index.

Hotel Zoso – You won't be able to resist the San Jacinto Mountain views from your room or suite, but when you do venture out, downtown Palm Springs is just a stroll away. Special offers up to 25% off or fourth night free are available through April 30.

Safety First
We're all beyond ready to hop in the car or book a flight for our next vacation, but our transition to traveling and socializing will be slow and steady. Greater Palm Springs has created and implemented a detailed safety pledge to ensure that locals and visitors can experience all that the area offers with confidence. More than 450 local businesses have taken the pledge, including site-specific protection plans, disinfecting protocols, social distancing and employee training. And don't forget – pack several masks!

Ready to travel? Visit www.visitgreaterpalmsprings.com.