2 Best Hotels in Palm Desert, Palm Springs and the Desert Resorts

A half-block from El Paseo shopping strip, this hip, pet-friendly hotel (under Marriott's Autograph Collection umbrella) reflects the mid-century modern history and upscale, yet casual lifestyle of the desert. Contemporary art is on display in public areas, as well as in rooms and suites, most of which have a balcony or small terrace. Regular pop-ups take place in the lobby, which contains a 1955 cherry-red Cadillac, or in the courtyard, which has an airstream trailer, a pool, a hot tub, firepits, lawn games, and a putting green. Amenities also include a café, restaurant, spa, and morning yoga classes.

Set on 450 landscaped acres,18 of which are lakes and waterways, this crisp, contemporary resort is the size of a small village and attracts business travelers, couples, and families who appreciate the amenities that give it a "park once and never have to leave" vibe. You can play tennis or pickleball, get in a round of golf on one of two courses, or lounge beside one of three pools. Facilities here also include seven restaurants, a state-of-the-art fitness center, a huge spa with a Turkish hammam, and the largest hotel ballroom in the Greater Palm Springs area. Rooms have lake or mountains views, balconies, work spaces with built-in USB ports, and oversize bathrooms.