Welcome to my new newsletter series, “Five Things I’m Currently Loving In Palm Springs,” where I’ll be sharing recent discoveries I’ve come across in my travels throughout the Coachella Valley. These finds may include a unique dish at a restaurant, a specialty cocktail, an interesting local business or even a book or movie that highlights this glorious desert I call home – anything I’m currently appreciating that I know my readers will savor, as well. Enjoy!
XO, Lindsay
Anyone driving to Palm Springs has likely noticed the I-10 sign announcing “other Desert Cities.” In 2016, Wonder Valley artist Dana Longuevan paid homage to the seemingly dismissive placard in the form of a graphic tee. Eight years later, the popular shirts are now sold all across the Coachella Valley, as well as in Very Very, the chic art/homewares shop Dana opened with her husband, Rich Good (yes, that Rich Good), last year. The supremely soft tees run $35 and come in a variety of colors.
I recently had the pleasure of visiting this stunning rooftop bar, perched atop Azúcar restaurant at the Las Serenas Villas hotel in downtown Palm Springs. Nestled under a romantic canopy of Edison lights with striking views of the San Jacinto Mountains (which feel just inches away), colorful Boho furnishings begging patrons to settle in, and a stellar array of craft cocktails and mocktails, the watering hole is an absolute masterpiece!
This 2018 documentary, currently streaming on Freevee, highlights the many years Frank Sinatra spent in Palm Springs. Featuring interviews with such luminaries as Barbara Sinatra, Mel Haber, Nelda Linsk, and Trini Lopez, the film is a love letter to both the city and the iconic singer, showcasing his many generous contributions to the local community, various desert homes and regular haunts, most of which are still in operation today! It is a must-watch!
I spent quite a bit of time throughout the festival weekends at glamping grounds/special events venue Rancho 51 Date Garden. Established by Indio natives Johnny and Claudia Alvarado, the tranquil 2-acre retreat is tucked inside a lush grove of palm trees, with countless amenities to make guests feel truly at home, including restroom/shower trailers, a pool, food trucks and a slew of vendors offering everything from hair and makeup to permanent jewelry! It’s the only spot I’d consider booking for Coachella/Stagecoach camping!
Situated outside of La Quinta’s charming Artize Gallery is a tiny stand filled with artwork, free for passersby to take! Known as F.L.A.G., the display is a treasure trove of unique finds – as fun to browse as it is to procure. I recently snagged a gorgeous citrus drawing that I can’t wait to hang in my kitchen! While visiting, be sure to pop into Artize to check out its Art-o-Mat machine, a vintage cigarette vending machine repurposed to sell small works of art at $5 a pop.