Palm Springs and Palm Desert, California
Transport yourself to the golden era of Hollywood glamour with a retro romantic weekend in Palm Springs and Palm Desert. From September through May, you can start the day with a champagne hot-air balloon outing, soaring high above the sprawling Coachella Valley. During the peaceful flight, you’ll usually travel approximately 10 to 30 miles (16 to 48 kilometers), depending on the breeze, and enjoy an entirely new aerial perspective on some of the region’s different landscapes, including the surrounding natural deserts and myriad golf courses.
Back on solid ground, palm-lined streets and mid-century modern architecture provide the setting for leisurely strolls through historic neighborhoods filled with vintage boutiques, hip eateries, and a trove of beautiful homes. History lovers will want to see sites such as the Sunnylands estate and the McCallum Adobe, which dates to 1884 and is the oldest remaining building in Palm Springs. If you’d like to take a break from the tourism centers and enjoy a quiet walk or drive through a true residential quarter — while still marveling at the area’s fascinating and varied construction styles — consider an excursion to The Mesa, Deepwell Estates, or Indian Canyons. And, of course, you can’t visit Palm Springs and Palm Desert without doing some serious shopping. The Uptown Design District and El Paseo Shopping District are both musts.
Active couples won’t have any trouble filling their days either. Hit the tennis or pickleball courts together, play 18 holes (perhaps choose a challenging new course during your hot-air balloon ride!), or opt for a hike on a nearby trail for more glorious views. Trekking to the peak of Mount San Jacinto (after catching a lift on the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway) and Andreas Canyon are popular routes. For the ultimate in relaxation, there are healing hot springs and rejuvenating spa treatments galore. As the sun dips below the mountains and the stars light the desert sky, savor an intimate dinner on a cozy restaurant patio.
