The Vintage Lover's Guide: 3 Days in Palm Springs

The perfect guide for those who want to experience the Old Hollywood glamour of Palm Springs, CA full of cocktails, vintage shopping and historic landmarks.

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Updated ago

Where to Stay

Les Cactus

@melodiemaddenadams

This hotel was full of endless charm, amenities, and incredible customer service. With an eye for branding and design, every detail was perfect. It feels like you have stepped back in time. We especially loved the daily breakfast that was included.

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Holiday House Palm Springs

@melodiemaddenadams

The sister property to Les Cactus, Holiday House is expertly designed by Mark D. Sikes and boasts blue and white happiness all the way through the property. If you are looking for boutique elegance in the heart of the action, you will love your stay here.

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Parker Palm Springs

@melodiemaddenadams

If you are looking for more of a high end experience, this is the place for you. With decor designed by Jonathan Adler, this hotel boasts vintage inspired decor and old school luxury. Don't skip the fabulous spa!

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Where to Eat

Cafe

Café La Jefa

@melodiemaddenadams

Grab a coffee and croissant and shop the collection of boutiques nearby

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Lunch

Norma's

@melodiemaddenadams

Grab a table on the patio and dine al fresco where they serve breakfast all day. Don't miss the French Toast! Reservations recommended

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CHi CHi Restaurant

@melodiemaddenadams

Take in the gorgeous design by Kelly Wearstler as you drink fresh juices, eat shrimp tacos, and enjoy poolside views. Do NOT miss the salsa! We can't stop thinking about it.

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Nature's Health Food & Cafe

@melodiemaddenadams

This vegan cafe was a last minute find and a place we will definitely go back to! We loved the breakfast tacos and fresh juice.

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Dinner

Bar Cecil

@melodiemaddenadams

Make sure you order the deviled eggs, bread with sage butter, and burger! This Michelin award winner is a must. Reservations recommended

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Sandfish Sushi & Whiskey

@melodiemaddenadams

Come for the extensive and unique sushi menu, stay for the incredible selection of Japanese whiskey Reservations recommended

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Cocktails

Melvyn's Restaurant & Lounge

@melodiemaddenadams

If you love your dirty martini with a size of jazz and Hollywood history, this is your place.

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Bootlegger Tiki

@melodiemaddenadams

Red lit tables, authentic tiki decor and stiff drinks make this place a must visit. Tip: order the dealer's choice and your drink is served in a vintage tiki mug. Reservations recommended

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What To Do

Palm Springs Art Museum

@melodiemaddenadams

If you happen to be visiting on a Thursday, admission to the museum is free.

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Cabazon Dinosaurs - World's Biggest Dinosaurs

@melodiemaddenadams

Just a quick 20 minute drive outside the city, you can view these retro Dinos offering photo ops for days. Tip; Grab In-N-Out burger before you head back to town

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Palm Springs Yacht Club

@melodiemaddenadams

Tucked away inside The Parker Palm Springs is PSYC. After all the exploring you will do, this is a perfect spa day retreat. Tip: You can book the spa without being a guest of the hotel.

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Palm Springs Mod Squad (Architecture Tours)

@melodiemaddenadams

No trip to Palm Springs would be complete without a tour of the incredible homes and architecture.

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Vintage Shopping

The Frippery

@melodiemaddenadams

If you happened to forget your kaftan, this store has you're covered. Prices are on the higher end, but this store is expertly curated.

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Bon Vivant

@melodiemaddenadams

The perfect stop for unique jewelry and a treasure for your home.

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Melody Note Vintage

@melodiemaddenadams

This quaint shop boasts an incredible selection of reasonably priced vintage clothing.

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Market Market

@melodiemaddenadams

Located next to Bar Cecil, this warehouse is more of a collective for vendors to show off their treasures. So many amazing pieces I wish my suitcase had been bigger.

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Angel View Resale Store

@melodiemaddenadams

Here you will find more of a thrift enviornment full of deals. If you like the hunt, you will love it here.

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Revivals Stores - Palm Springs

@melodiemaddenadams

A spot only the locals seem to know about, this is the place for a deal on retro home decor.

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ABOUT THE AUTHOR

MEL

Hi I'm Mel! I have been traveling the world since I was young. I enjoy packing for a 12 day trip in just a carry-on, experiencing places only locals recommend, and finding hotels that are bougie on a budget. I travel solo but mostly with my family. I specialize in itineraries for those who enjoy kid-friendly locations while not sacrificing their love for design, fine dining, and culture. I have lived in Nashville, TN for over 20 years and consider NYC my second home.

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