"Bar Cecil is hands down my favorite dinner spot in the desert. It’s a small jewel box of a restaurant that is intimate, lively, and impeccably curated, from the menu to the art across the walls. It’s a special ambience with an amazing staff. Reservations can be hard to come by; get there early for dinner at the bar for the best experience. Grab the deviled eggs appetizer to start off right."

"This is not only our home for Desert Air and Splash House, but also an incredible museum by day. CNN rates it one of the top 15 air museums in the world with over 75 aircraft of all different eras across multiple hangars, and growing. It’s also a living history museum with a team dedicated to preserving and flying many of the aircraft, if you can believe that. You can book a flight on one of the aircraft."

"Palm Springs has many great Mexican food restaurants, but this one has been a staple of mine since childhood (it may have been a once-a-week rotation at some points). It’s fantastic authentic Mexican food. The north location is set in a lovely courtyard patio inside Los Arboles Hotel. Grab a margarita and a few helpings of chips and salsa, and you’re on your way."

"Try Farm for your weekend brunch. It’s a hidden gem tucked away inside a courtyard at La Plaza, which is a beautiful historic Spanish property built in 1936 as one of the first open-air shopping centers in the country. Between the gardens, French dishes, French press coffee, and historic charm you’ll feel transported to the countryside of France."

"Another Palm Springs classic: Walking into Billy Reed’s feels like stepping into another time. Nothing has changed about this place since it opened in the ’70s, which is what makes it special. It’s the epitome of old school that exudes a warm nostalgia. They have a huge menu with large portions and very reasonable pricing, another piece of tradition that makes it timeless."

"The Surf Club is an incredible new addition for the desert that converted an old waterpark I grew up going to. Although many surf parks have been proposed in the desert, PSSC is the only one that has made it happen. There’s something mesmerizing about listening to the waves crash while taking in the snowcapped mountains. There’s also a resort pool, a lazy river, slides, and a restaurant for those who don’t surf. Grab a seat on the restaurant patio for one of the best views in town."

"Great bread and great sandwiches in a comfortable setting. Owned and operated by a wonderful local family who are typically there to welcome you. You can’t go wrong with any sandwich, although my personal favorite is the Aspen with Jalapeño Cheddar Bread. Don’t leave without grabbing one of their famous brownies or cookies."

"The art museum is a cultural treasure for the desert that punches above its weight for a small city. They have a series of changing exhibitions as well as an impressive permanent collection. If you’re in town on a Thursday, admission is free from 5 to 8 p.m. Be sure to also check out their dedicated Architecture and Design Center nearby in downtown."

"Palm Springs has many great hikes, and I recommend them all, but if you can pick only one, try South Lykken. It’s a fun moderate hike that takes you up to amazing panoramic views of the city. The hike also takes you through and above Oswit Canyon, which is 114 acres of preserved open land that is home to bighorn sheep and other native wildlife. It’s a beautiful sight, especially in winter and spring."

"I love seeing other born-and-raised desert locals create establishments and culture in Palm Springs for new generations, and Las Palmas Brewery is a great example. It’s a microbrewery and natural wine bar in downtown named after the classic Old Las Palmas neighborhood of Palm Springs. It’s a comfortable place to grab a drink with good people and good vibes. Stop by Windmill City Super #1 right next door for souvenirs, made and curated by another set of desert natives."

"This downtown Palm Springs institution is a must-hit if you’re in town. The restaurant has been around since the 1950s, owned and operated by the same local family through generations. Grab a table on the patio for a lively atmosphere with a band and dancing."

"Tucked away in an alley that you’d never know was there is a very cool creperie shop by another fellow desert native making his mark. What started as a pop-up in 2020 was so successful it quickly turned into a permanent brick-and-mortar spot that now counts Guy Fieri as a fan. They serve big, filling, Argentine-style crepes that are very much worth a stop for lunch."

"Paul is a restaurant and bar that is one of those IYKYK spots: situated on the outskirts of Palm Springs, next to a liquor store in an unassuming strip mall, and yet there’ll be a line to get in at 5 p.m. on a Tuesday in summer. It’s that popular, and deservedly so. Once you make it through Paul, who’s typically running point out front, stepping in feels like entering a legendary New York City bar that oozes warmth and charm. Grab a booth or seats where you can, and sink in."

"A beautifully curated marketplace home to dozens of local makers, vintage collectors, and indie brands. It’s set in a warehouse on the edge of downtown and always has something worth discovering, from desert-inspired home goods to vintage tees, candles, and ceramics. For even more vintage and larger furniture finds, stop by their sister space, Market Market, just down the road. They’ve even got a wine bar inside.

"Palm Springs’ go-to spot for real, housemade bagels. They boil and bake everything on-site and it’s all done the right way. No shortcuts! Started by locals in 2015, it’s grown from a farmers market stand into a busy storefront that still sells out most weekends. Go early, grab a bagel sandwich, and you’re set."

"What started as a high school business project by two local kids has grown into a beloved toffee brand with shops across the country, but this Palm Springs location is the original. Stop in for a sample or gift box; everything’s made in small batches and it’s seriously good. Right next door is the historic Plaza Theatre, currently undergoing a major restoration and set to reopen later this year as a new cultural venue."

"One of the best new additions downtown. Canopy is a wine bar with a great selection of natural wines, solid small plates, and an easygoing atmosphere. Whether you’re popping in for a glass before dinner or hanging for the night, it’s always a good time. They also host tastings and events throughout the month."

"Tucked behind a velvet curtain at Mr. Lyons is a low-lit back room that channels classic old Hollywood. It’s a great spot for a proper cocktail before or after dinner, and the restaurant itself is absolutely worth a meal if you’re looking for a timeless steakhouse experience."

"A great burger with the best name in town. This local gem has always been a favorite lunch spot of mine. It’s a classic all-American burger inspired by a burger stand on the Venice Beach Boardwalk from the owner’s childhood. It’s in a laid-back little hut of a building that used to be a 1930s Mobil gas station."