Palm Springs: Best experiences in the desert

From pro tennis to high couture, the spring season is just around the corner in Greater Palm Springs, with a host of big ticket events and experiences in the desert.

Plus, the desert oasis has quietly unveiled a fresh crop of boutique openings, renovated luxury retreats, and wellness experiences designed for those who want to reset before the party begins.

With exclusive spring resort deals now in full swing, there’s a new reason to linger longer in the valley. Discover the latest in where to stay, play, and hang during the desert’s most iconic event season.

2026 BNP Paribas Open (March 1–15)
The world’s best players descend on the Indian Wells Tennis Garden for the 2026 BNP Paribas Open. Often called the “Fifth Grand Slam,” this tournament offers an intimate, high-stakes viewing experience against the backdrop of the Santa Rosa Mountains. Between matches, visitors can explore the newly expanded dining garden featuring local pop-ups and fine-dining from celebrated chefs. Get into the action and hit the all new padel courts at Parker Palm Springs, play in style at the Kimpton Rowan Palm Springs pickleball courts just outside the Palm Springs Art Museum, or learn how to perfect your tennis game with a pro at a local clinic.

Fashion Week El Paseo and Palm Desert Food & Wine (March 13–22)
Known as the “Rodeo Drive of the Desert,” El Paseo transforms into a high-style hub this March. Fashion Week El Paseo (March 13–18) showcases the latest from global designers and local icons like Trina Turk.

Immediately following, the Palm Desert Food & Wine Festival (March 19–22) invites foodies to four days of celebrity chef demonstrations and grand tastings under the sun, featuring rare vintages and the valley’s most innovative farm-to-table bites.

Coachella and Stagecoach (April 10–26)
The global music spotlight remains firmly fixed on the Empire Polo Club in Indio. Coachella Valley Music and Arts Festival (April 10–12 & 17–19) returns for its 25th-anniversary, headlined by Sabrina Carpenter, Justin Bieber, and first-ever Latina headliner, Karol G. Just as the dust settles, Stagecoach Music Festival (April 24–26) brings the country music party back to the desert, headlined by Cody Johnson, Lainey Wilson, and Post Malone, plus stand-out performances by Journey, Pitbull, and Teddy Swims.

Spring 2026 openings & renovations

La Quinta Resort & Club Centennial Renovation: As this Hollywood-favorite property approaches its 100th year, it has completed a massive refresh. Guests can now experience the updated main pool and modernized casitas that blend historic charm with modern technology.

Renaissance Esmeralda Resort & Spa in Indian Wells is welcoming guests with refreshed indoor spaces, along with new pickleball courts, a fully redesigned reception area and lobby, and the debut of Seven Olive, a modern gastropub, alongside Topgolf Swing Suites. The multi-million-dollar reinvestment program was completed in January 2026 and includes commissioned artwork and sculptures by noted artists, Brian Peters, Valero Doval and Ashley Nardone.

In Rancho Mirage, Omni Rancho Las Palmas Resort & Spa invites guests to linger over delectable meals and craft cocktails in true desert ambiance with the opening of Double Date, an Italian dining experience inspired by the fruit locally grown and distributed across the world; and Desert Pearl, named after Palm Springs trailblazer Pearl McManus.

The Riviera Resort & Spa (Phase I): Reclaimed from its brief stint as Margaritaville, the Riviera is returning to its midcentury roots under IHG Hotels & Resorts. The first phase of its restoration is now open, bringing back the “Old Hollywood” vibes that once defined the property.

Exclusive Spring Deals
To encourage midweek discovery and late-season stays, Greater Palm Springs properties and attractions are offering “Spring into the Oasis” incentives:

Book a spring-time getaway at select resorts like Omni Rancho Las Palmas Resort and receive 15% off.

The “Ultimate Family Stay & Play”: Select resorts, including Renaissance Esmeralda Resort & Spa, are offering $100-$200 arcade credits and discounts on connecting rooms when booking two nights or more.

Third Night Free: Boutique properties like Royal Sun Palm Springs are offering a complimentary third night for Sunday-Thursday bookings, along with poolside cabana upgrades and “Rise and Shine” breakfast add-ons.

50% off on Thursday or Sunday Bookings: Beat the weekend traffic or linger a little longer at La Quinta Resort & Club, and enjoy 50% per night savings on Thursday or Sunday.

15% off when booking a Spring Bloom Adventure with Desert Adventures: Take a ride off the beaten path and experience the desert in full bloom with a guided Jeep tour.

Vacation Rental Deals: Book a third night or longer at ACME House Company Vacation Rental Properties and receive 15% off, or stay at one of Poppy’s new home properties and receive $150 off your first stay of four nights or longer.

For a full list of Spring Getaway Offers: visitgreaterpalmsprings.com/spring-travel/

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