Surrounded by four picturesque mountain ranges, the sun-drenched cities of Greater Palm Springs offer an ideal blend of leisure and business opportunities. Renowned for its serene landscapes, iconic mid-century modern architecture, and vibrant cultural scene, this SoCal oasis—which includes Palm Springs, Desert Hot Springs, Cathedral City, Rancho Mirage, Palm Desert, Indian Wells, La Quinta, Indio, and Coachella—captivates visitors from around the globe.
It’s also an ideal spot for truly unique meetings and events, ranging from corporate retreats and incentive trips to adventure-filled teambuilding excursions and large-scale conferences and concerts. And in 2024, a slew of new and renovated venues are enhancing the experience even further. Here’s a look at some standout options for meetings and events.
1. Thompson Hotel Palm Springs
Photo rendering above of the Thompson Hotel
The Thompson Hotel is set to introduce a touch of modern luxury to Greater Palm Springs when it opens in the fall of 2024. Located in the heart of downtown Palm Springs, the highly anticipated property will boast an iconic mid-century modern design that embodies the Rat Pack-era style the area is famous for. Highlights will include suites with expansive balconies or patios, a signature restaurant serving Middle East cuisine, two outdoor pool venues, an on-site tasting room, and more than 35,000 square feet of dynamic retail and restaurant space.
2. The Spa at Séc-he at the Agua Caliente Cultural Plaza
The image above was taken at The Spa at Séc-he
The world-class Spa at Séc-he opened in April 2023. Owned by the Agua Caliente Band of Cahuilla Indians, the 73,000-square-foot spa complex is located atop the Tribe’s sacred hot mineral spring; it features 22 private mineral baths for guests to experience the ancient tradition of Taking of the Waters, where the combination of hot water and the mineral composition create a natural environment for full body rejuvenation.
Looking to host a full day of group activities? The spa is part of the Agua Caliente Cultural Plaza, which also includes the Agua Caliente Cultural Museum, a 48,000-square-foot museum showcasing Tribal history, traditions, artifacts, and modern life. The plaza is the second largest of its kind in the United States, and a long-awaited addition to cultural tourism in Greater Palm Springs.
3. Palm Springs Surf Club
Photo above courtesy of Palm Springs Surf Club
Bringing a splash of adventure to the desert, the new Palm Springs Surf Club transforms the traditional Greater Palm Springs experience with its unique water activities. Open since January 2024, the water park features state-of-the-art surfing simulators that cater to both beginners and experienced surfers. But the Surf Club isn’t just about surfing; it offers a variety of water-based fun, relaxation, and resort-style amenities for corporate and leisure groups, including private cabanas for rent, a restaurant with flexible event space, and a poolside bar with a creative beverage program.
4. Tommy Bahama Miramonte Resort & Spa
The new Tommy Bahama Miramonte Resort & Spa embodies the laid-back luxury that Greater Palm Springs is famous for. The first resort concept from lifestyle brand Tommy Bahama debuted in November 2023 following a $20 million renovation and redesign—and the resulting group-friendly space features 215 guest rooms set on 11 acres of olive trees, fragrant citrus groves, and flower gardens. There are also three saltwater swimming pools, a new signature restaurant and bar, and a 12,000-square-foot Spa Rosa. The hotel, which has connecting lawns and terraces providing views of the mountains, offers 35,000 square feet of flexible meeting and event space spread across eight meeting venues.
5. Acrisure Arena
Photo above courtesy of Acrisure Arena
One of the nation’s most iconic music festival destinations finally has the world-class arena it deserves. Open since late 2022, Acrisure Arena boasts more than 11,000 seats and draws some of the biggest artists and acts on the planet. The $300 million multi-purpose sports and entertainment venue hosts about 120 events per year, with standout features like 20 executive suites and a variety of premium club spaces, plus local Greater Palm Springs craft beer and food offerings.