Between the 1940s and 1960s, Palm Springs became ground zero for Modernist architects like Richard Neutra and John Lautner who were attracted to its lunar terrain and proximity to Los Angeles. Their design aesthetic, which came to be called desert modernism, forever shaped the tableau of the desert city. While sadly you can’t stay at their famous homes, these ten hotels and spas are the next best thing.
Jonathan Adler-designed resort
The Parker, set against the San Jacinto mountains on 13 lush acres, oozes style and seclusion. The Le Meridien-owned property is a favorite of celebs when they’re in town and the pool area is notorious for star-spotting (Angelina Jolie has been seen lounging by).
Modern glam with a nod to the ‘50s
Formerly The Horizon, L’Horizon reopened in 2015 after a multi-million dollar refresh by celebrity designer Steve Hermann. The 1950s gem played host to Hollywood legends (and even a few presidents) back in the day and does so today. Each of the luxurious 25 guestrooms is like staying in private Palm Springs home.
Technicolor dream in the desert
Fun and festive describe the Saguaro (pronounced sa-wah-roh), a 245-room hotel decked in pink and orange. If you’re looking for a party-friendly home base for Coachella, this is it. Daily yoga, an Olympic-sized pool and a shuttle to downtown seal the deal.
Hipster haven with dining and spa services
Jaded city folk should head to this hotel, a former Motel 6 turned high-style hangout. Like its NYC and L.A. counterparts, the Ace has all the amenities you could want, plus an on-site restaurant, bar and spa.
Moroccan-style villa and honeymooner’s dream
Styled after pensiones in the Mediterranean, the Korakia has all the makings of a seaside retreat — without a sea in sight. A complimentary cooked breakfast is served in the sun-dappled courtyard, one of the many features of this dreamy destination.
Swanky, all-inclusive resort with spa
Four bars, a restaurant, an 11,000 sq-foot spa – not to mention 398 rooms and 73 suites – the Riviera is as big as it gets in Palm Springs. You won’t be bored here. It’s location in downtown means easy access to everything Palm Springs has to offer.
Retro retreat with affordable studio suites
Like something out of The Jetsons, Orbit In is a retro fantasy come to life. Studio rooms are appointed with Eames furniture and record players, while extras include two saltwater pools and a complimentary happy hour. Their extensive spa menu offers relaxing massages, mat Pilates and yoga therapy.
Low-key inn opened in 2011
If Nancy Meyers designed a hotel, it would look a lot like the Alcazar. The Spanish colonial-style inn, located in the hip uptown design district, is decked in sumptuous white linens. Reserve a room with a private patio and let the calm set in.
Spanish Colonial abode with a fascinating past
A hotspot for movie stars in the 1930s, the Spanish Colonial-style hotel was opened by former mobster Al Wertheimer and served as his private club until the 1940s. To this day, the Colony Palms offers guests an indulgent stay, with beautifully appointed suites, a restaurant and spa.
William F. Cody’s masterpiece
This adults-only property is like a real-life Flintstones set. Built in 1947 by William F. Cody, the hotel was named a Class 1 historic site in 2012. Lounge on a bright orange sun chair or cozy up to one of the hotel’s many inviting common spaces that encircle the saltwater pool.
Movie star glam minutes from downtown
Originally built in 1935, the Albert Frey designed Movie Colony Hotel combines iconic mid-century modern architecture with a location just one block from downtown Palm Springs. The mostly white boutique hotel has both rooms and townhouses and was a favorite of Sinatra back in the day.
Ranch-style property with 20 bungalows
Tired of the mid-century modern aesthetic? Sparrows Lodge is the answer. The restored lodge, built in 1952, is mountain cabin meets desert resort. With No TVs or telephones, it makes for the perfect getaway. The on site restaurant, The Barn Kitchen, serves breakfast, lunch and supper.
