Woman standing in sunroom of car in Joshua Tree National Park

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Greater Palm Springs

The Rat Pack is back, baby, or at least its hangout is. In the 1950s and '60s, Palm Springs, some 100 miles east of LA, was the swinging getaway of Frank Sinatra, Elvis Presley and other Hollywood stars. Once the Rat Pack packed it in, Palm Springs surrendered to golfing retirees. However, in the mid-1990s, new generations discovered the city’s retro-chic vibe and elegant mid-century modern structures built by famous architects. Today, retirees and snowbirds mix comfortably with hipsters, hikers and a sizeable LGBTQI+ community on getaways from LA and from across the globe.


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Transportation

Walking is fine for downtown and its environs, but if you want to venture farther out in the Coachella Valley, a car is the way to go.

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Best Neighborhoods

Whether you’re craving outdoor adventure, nightlife, or vintage shopping, Palm Springs has it all.

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Day Trips

If you’re looking for road trips that take you to the mountains, beach and beyond, check out these day trips from Palm Springs.

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Free Things to Do

With its reputation for glamor and luxury, it might be surprising that there's anything to do for free in Palm Springs. Here's how to visit on a budget.

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Attraction

A taste of Greater Palm Springs: activities and appetites 

Jan 2, 2024 • 8 min read

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