Greater Palm Springs is famed for its eternal sunshine and expanse of desert against a chiselled mountain skyline. It’s where travellers can choose between top-notch boutique and luxury hotels, enjoying outstanding dining options and a high concentration of mid-century modern architecture. 

In 2024 this picturesque destination is only getting better, as its vibrant hospitality scene continues to expand, and the line-up of enticing events and activities beckons new and repeat visitors. 

CHECKING IN 

Among the new resorts opening their doors this year is the 168-key Thompson Palm Springs in downtown Palm Springs. It’s the second Californian opening of the Thompson Hotels brand, offering luxury bungalow-style accommodation and two pools with skyline views. Guests can unwind with panoramic views of the San Jacinto Mountains, surrounded by sleek decor with earthy hues and bright pops of colour. And within the 35,000-square-feet of dining and retail space they can savour fine vintages in the wine tasting room. 

Over in the foothills of the Coachella Valley, American boutique hotel chain Life House opened its sixth hotel in November 2023. Life House Palm Springs is a modernist hotel blending the beauty of the Coachella Valley with Old Hollywood glamour. The 66 guest rooms brim with the vibrancy of California’s natural terrain, with two dining options. 

The popular Californian clothing brand Tommy Bahama has now expanded into hospitality, opening its first resort in Indian Wells. The former Miramonte Resort & Spa has been renovated and reopened as Tommy Bahama Miramonte Resort & Spa, in 11 scenic acres set against the Santa Rosa Mountains. It epitomises the laid-back Tommy Bahama style, with winding paths connecting three saltwater pools, a spa and two bocce ball courts. 

ACTIVITIES FOR ALL

There are also plenty of new attractions to keep clients busy outside of their hotel. The new Palm Springs Surf Club has already made waves after opening this January, featuring a state-of-the-art wave pool that recreates surf breaks from across the globe. All skill levels are catered for, and visitors can enjoy a resort-style experience thanks to the restaurant, pool, lazy river and slides.

For those looking to entertain younger travellers, the Children’s Discovery Museum of the Desert reopens in March, having been closed since April 2020. Clients can expect new hands-on exhibits, which inspire and engage children.

Later this month Modernism Week takes place from 15-25 February, celebrating mid-century modern architecture, art, interior and landscape design. It features more than 350 events, including The Palm Springs Modernism Show, parties, live shows, educational tours and iconic home tours. For visitors who miss this year’s event, suggest joining a mid-century modern design tour to explore some of the destination’s sleekest architectural gems.

With all this to offer, Southern California’s most storied desert oasis surely deserves a place on your clients’ bucket lists in 2024