Hotel Snapshot
Hidden behind a fantastical breeze-block facade, Parker Palm Springs is a maximalist playground for stylish travelers. Designed by the wickedly talented Jonathan Adler, the sprawling 13-acre estate feels like the setting for a secret, retro-glamorous party hosted by a madcap celebrity who’s invited guests to shed their inhibitions amongst vintage furnishings and quirky art like a giant brass banana sculpture and a Salvador Dali painting. It’s a relentlessly playful experience, capturing the spirit of classic Palm Springs cool with an irreverent twist.
Design & Character
The property is defined by a bold, unrepentant collision of mid-century modern architecture and eclectic interior design. Adler’s vision blends the resort's classic Coachella Valley bones with vibrant colors and geometric patterns. (The hallway carpet is straight out of filmmaker Stanley Kubrick’s The Shining.) The grounds themselves are a labyrinth of well-manicured lawns, secret gardens, hidden fire pits, and gurgling fountains, encouraging guests to wander and discover the property's over-the-top personality, channeling Palm Springs’ legendary history as a desert retreat for Hollywood royalty like Frank Sinatra, Marilyn Monroe, and Lucille Ball.
The Rooms
The accommodations range from standard rooms to private villas as well as the three-bedroom Gene Autry Residence, which once served as the home of the famed singing cowboy. Adler’s style is evident throughout with striking flourishes: custom furniture, graphic-print wallpapers, brass fixtures, and punchy pops of color. Every room features private patios or balconies that open onto the pools or serene grounds. Bathrooms are cheekily stocked with a mish-mosh of branded amenities from the likes of Hermès, L'Occitane, and Acqua di Parma. While some furnishings are showing signs of age, the overall tone is that of a glamorous sanctuary.
Food & Drink
Dining at the Parker is an experience in soaking up the atmosphere as much as it is in savoring unique flavors. Norma’s is the property’s all-day, indoor-outdoor restaurant known for its sprawling brunch menu. (The decadent lobster-and-asparagus frittata is a must-order.) In the evenings, the moody Mister Parker’s offers a flawless French-inspired steakhouse experience set amidst art-covered, mirror-lined walls. Counter Reformation is a sinful wine bar with innovative bites like hearts of palm calamari and faux gras macarons. For casual bites and cocktails, Lemonade Stand by the main pool specializes in classic fare and refreshing cocktails.
The Amenities
Crafted for leisure, the hotel boasts three pools: a bustling main pool, a more secluded quiet pool, and a tranquil indoor saltwater pool at the spa. Beyond sun-drenched floating and lounging, the property is equipped with an array of activities: full-sized red clay tennis and padel courts, a dedicated croquet lawn and pétanque court, and numerous communal fire pits perfect for evening socializing. The concierge team can help arrange everything from tours of the nearby San Andrea Fault area to vintage car rentals. A new outdoor amphitheater space created by original Parker landscape designer Judy Kameon serves as a wedding venue.
Spa & Wellness Scoop
Blending whimsy with indulgence, the Palm Springs Yacht Club (PSYC) is the hotel’s luxurious spa featuring an indoor pool, hot tub, cold plunge, steam rooms, saunas, and a relaxation area decorated with nautical flair. On arrival, spa attendants greet guests with a hearty “Ahoy!” The expansive menu offers everything from essential oil rain massages to slimming seaweed body wraps in 17 treatment rooms. A 24-hour fitness center and complimentary weekend yoga classes held outdoors on the grass keep wellness in focus. The quaint gift shop is stocked with Adler-designed decor and all manner of skincare products.
Location & Neighborhood Recs
The resort is located on the quieter, south end of Palm Springs, shielded behind massive hedge walls. While a car is helpful for exploration, Parker staff will transport guests within 5 miles in a high-end vehicle. In downtown, visit the Palm Springs Art Museum and Architecture and Design Center for contemporary art and design. (Be sure to check out the 1931 Aluminare House next to the museum.) The Uptown Design District is home to several fabulous boutiques and galleries. For nature lovers, the Indian Canyons—the sacred land of the Agua Caliente Band of Cahuilla Indians—provide spectacular hiking opportunities for every difficulty level.
Fast Facts
Location: Palm Springs, California, USA
Vibe: California desert cool with tongue-in-cheek touches
Rating: Five-star
Room Count: 144
Pricing: From $225 per night
Our Favorite Thing About the Hotel: The labyrinthine grounds and mischievous decor evoke the feeling of falling down a rabbit hole into a mid-century modern wonderland.
Dining: Norma's all-day restaurant, extravagant steakhouse Mister Parker's, poolside Lemonade Stand
Amenities: Three pools, tennis and padel courts, croquet lawn, fire pits, pétanque court, fitness center, three restaurants
Nearby Attractions: Palm Springs Art Museum, Uptown Design District, Indian Canyons
Airports: Approximately 10 minutes from Palm Springs International Airport (PSP); approximately 1 hour from Ontario International Airport (ONT); approximately 2 hours from Los Angeles International Airport (LAX)
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