Palm Springs has a reputation—sun, style, retirees in pastel golf pants—but according to my friend Jamie Haley, there’s so much more to the desert than what you think you know.
Jamie’s a creative marketing and brand leader who splits her time between Palm Springs, Big Bear and Mexico. After nearly two decades in L.A., Jamie and her husband James were ready for a softer pace of life—and parking. “You can’t drive 15 miles in 15 minutes in L.A.,” she said. “But here? It’s easy. It’s calm. And the second the sun hits the mountains, everything just feels more peaceful.”
That magic is part of what draws people to Palm Springs and the larger Coachella Valley. Yes, the design and history are iconic, but it’s also a place where young creatives are putting down roots, especially since the pandemic. Jamie knows where to find the best views, the quirkiest architecture, the perfect sushi roll, and even where to stargaze if you're hoping to spot the Milky Way or, on a rare and lucky night, the Northern Lights.
🎧 Click on the above link to listen to the interview or listen on “Mixtape Travels” on Apple Podcasts or Spotify.
Highlights from our conversation include:
Where to Stay
Del Marcos Hotel is a mid-century dream, adults-only, and originally designed by architect William Cody. Each suite has its own vibe, so no two visits feel quite the same.
Want to be near the action? The Rowan offers a rooftop pool, mountain views, and bonus points: you might spot bighorn sheep on the hill behind it.
What to Do
Start your day with a hike—Jamie has 7 or 8 trailheads within walking distance from her house. Want to cool off later? Take the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway up to Mount San Jacinto for 30–40° cooler temps and incredible views.
Architecture fans shouldn’t miss Modernism Week, which lets you peek inside historic homes (including Elvis Presley’s honeymoon hideaway, complete with a sunken party pad).
Love quirky photo ops? Swing by the "Robot House" (aka RoboLights), decked out with hand-built sculptures and neon lawn ornaments.
And if you want to get spiritual—or just really, really relaxed—book a sound bath at the Integratron. Yes, it’s in a dome with next-level acoustics. Yes, it’s worth it.
One of Jamie’s favorite nighttime escapes? Stargazing in Joshua Tree. Just an hour from Palm Springs, it’s pitch black and perfect for spotting constellations—or even the Milky Way. (Follow the park’s Instagram for their Milky Way calendar.) She once even saw the Northern Lights there (yes, really!).
Local Events Worth Planning Around
Modernism Week – A must for architecture lovers
Palm Springs Vintage Market – First Sunday of the month, Oct–Apr
Desert X – A valley-wide art installation series
Sunnylands Film Series – Free outdoor movies in spring and fall (bring your picnic blanket and a bottle of rosé)
🎶 Live Music + Festivals
Jamie mentioned the Acrisure Arena and the surprisingly intimate concerts there.
And of course, festival season is huge in the Coachella Valley. While Jamie proudly wears her "never been to Coachella" badge, she’s a fan of Stagecoach, which she says is beautifully laid out and surprisingly chill (even for those of us who prefer seats and space to stand). It’s not just the music—there’s a whole vibe of open skies, cowboy boots, and desert sunsets.
Want something more low-key? Check out the Sunnylands Film Series, a spring/fall tradition in Rancho Mirage. Locals show up with picnic blankets, wine, and lawn chairs to watch classic films under the stars—Jamie finally saw The Goonies there for the first time.
Bonus Tip for Music Lovers:
Palm Springs' Acrisure Arena is home to the AHL farm team of the Seattle Kraken—but also hosts big-name acts like Lizzo in a venue that seats just 10–15k. Jamie saw her from the floor and “could feel her flute magic.” (Yes, that’s a direct quote!)
Eat + Drink Like Jamie
PaulBar – A blink-and-you’ll-miss-it strip mall gem. It opens at 4 p.m., and there’s always a line. The food? Shockingly good. The cocktails? Even better.
Farm – Go for brunch and get the Bloody Mary. Just trust us.
Ponzu – After trying 15 different spots, this is Jamie’s pick for sushi. Creative rolls and solid classics.
Tac/Quila – Elevated Mexican that still feels local.
Also worth mentioning: Las Casuelas for big margaritas and patio vibes.
Jamie’s Perfect Palm Springs Day
Wake up. Hike one of the local trails. Eat sushi at Ponzu. Nap on a pool float (not optional). And cap it all off with a piano set by local legend Mikael Healey at Melvyn’s—martini in hand, naturally.
“Wrap up your night at Melvyn’s, where local legend Mikael Healey has been playing piano for nearly 20 years. He’s so beloved, he has his own star on Palm Springs’ Walk of Fame. Order a gin martini and soak it in.”
Finally, want to lean into the heat? Jamie’s cure is simple: float in a pool, cocktail in hand, with mountain views in every direction. Bonus points for a mid-century lounger and a soundtrack of vintage soul.
Meet Jamie Haley
Jamie Haley is a travel enthusiast and content creator who shares vibrant, detail-rich adventures through her Instagram platform, @travelthisweekend. Known for her thoughtfully curated, color-coded itineraries, Jamie brings a passion for immersive experiences to every corner of the world she visits.
With a deep love for the dramatic landscapes of Iceland and the coastal beauty of Croatia, Jamie has explored every continent except Antarctica. Often taking to the sea by private catamaran charter, she embraces a more intimate, off-the-beaten-path approach to global exploration. When she’s not sailing or sightseeing, you’ll likely find her discovering rooftop bars, sipping champagne, and indulging in great food wherever she goes.
In addition to her travel content, Jamie is the founder of Haley Creative, a marketing and communications consultancy, and the owner of Dark Side of the Moonridge Retreat — a moody mid-century modern cabin available for rent in Big Bear Lake, California. Her growing real estate portfolio, both international and domestic, reflects her passion for both travel and design and blends her love of exploration with entrepreneurship.
Thank you Jamie for sharing your local tips and expertise about Palm Springs!
Share this post