Blog created in partnership with the Meet the Mentor Program. Elsie Rotich visited Greater Palm Springs in April and shared her experiences below.
To experience Greater Palm Springs’ unique beauty right upon arrival, a boutique hotel may be the way to go instead of a major hotel line one can find at home. From rooftop views to specialty cuisine to unique architecture, Greater Palm Springs has a variety of luxury hotel properties that weave the art and culture of the destination into their guest experience. determine which property best suits their Greater Palm Springs getaway!
La Serena Villas
For the type of traveler who doesn’t want to work too hard to get the most aesthetically pleasing content for socials, La Serena Villas is definitely the place to go. What began as eleven 1930s Spanish eclectic–style cottages closed for demolition transformed in 2016 into a beautifully picturesque boutique hotel by architect May Sung. After touring the property with La Serena’s Guest Experience Manager, José Pombo, it’s no surprise that La Serena Villas was awarded a 2024 Michelin Key for the special experience they provide for their guests. The Michelin Guide describes this property as “virtually synonymous with mid-century modernism,” and wow, it certainly is!
The modern architecture complemented with tropical, Mexican-style influence can be found in the heart of downtown Palm Springs, a short walk away from ample restaurants and stores and a mere 7minute drive from the Palm Springs International Airport.
La Serena offers a variety of gorgeous villas to choose from as well as the lovely Azúcar Restaurant & Rooftop Bar. The lively interior is filled with Calaveras decor and Frida Kahlo imagery. José Pombo mentions that this hotel and restaurant has gained a reputation of being the place for bachelorette parties, girls' trips, family dinners, and more.
The Thompson Palm Springs
This next hotel is definitely for all the art enthusiasts out there. The Thompson Palm Springs is one of the newest hotels in the area by Hyatt, opening its doors in October 2024. This hotel line takes pleasure in being at the intersection of luxury, culture, and design. So much so that the Greater Palm Springs biennial contemporary art exhibition, Desert X, chose them as a 2025 Hub and Preferred Hotel Partner. Not to mention, it’s within walking distance of the Palm Springs Art Museum (how fitting!)
Each room caters to the modern traveler, one that’s looking for well-crafted luxury in a way that feels like they’ve just moved to Palm Springs and walked right into a penthouse they’ve spent years curating alongside an interior designer. A cozy, modern, and stylish living room awaits right upon entry with floor-to-ceiling windows that let in ample natural light. Some of the standout amenities in their Alejo Suite include a wraparound oversized balcony, a 55” flatscreen TV, and a vinyl record player and large speakers — all perfect ingredients to host friends and family and feel right at home.
The Thompson’s rooftop restaurant, Lola Rose Grand Mezze, serves top-tier East Mediterranean cuisine under the direction of Chef Quentin Garcia. This elegantly stylish venue seamlessly transitions from lively poolside lunches to sophisticated evening dining, with curated mixed media art adorning every corner. The thoughtfully designed interior accommodates everything from romantic dinners to group celebrations, while the outdoor seating offers poolside views framed by the area's signature desert mountains.
Hotel Paseo
Now for visitors in town for the famous Coachella Valley Music & Arts Festival, Hotel Paseo has a bit of everything one may need to pick up any last minute festival essentials. Like, literally. Located steps away from El Paseo Shopping District, aka “The Rodeo Drive of the Desert,” this hotel’s convenience is unmatched. Stephanie Greene, CEO of FG Creative, the marketing powerhouse behind El Paseo Shopping District, recommends that visitors consider staying at the local hotel property and feel encouraged to shop all the small businesses that occupy the strip. For those that value simplicity and convenience, Hotel Paseo is a great option for the tourist on the go.
The three-story, 150 room property is a newer addition to Palm Desert with nine specialty suites as well as gorgeous views of the San Jacinto Mountains and palm trees from nearly every room. In true Greater Palm Springs fashion, daily morning yoga is one of the many amenities offered at Hotel Paseo. The overall theme of relaxation is definitely a staple in the culture here.
In the end, it's about the destination — not just the accommodations. Greater Palm Springs offers visitors a unique blend of arts and culture, with the spectacular mountains serving as the perfect backdrop.
