Old Las Palmas, Palm Springs Travel Guide

Discover Old Las Palmas: A historic Palm Springs neighborhood blending mid-century modern charm with Hollywood glamour, lush landscapes, and vibrant local culture.

Nestled in the heart of Palm Springs, Old Las Palmas is a neighborhood steeped in history and brimming with charm. This area, once a citrus grove, has transformed into one of the most coveted neighborhoods in the region. Known for its stunning mid-century modern architecture, Old Las Palmas offers visitors a glimpse into the glamorous lifestyles of Hollywood's Golden Age stars who made this their retreat. Strolling through the tree-lined streets, you'll be captivated by the well-preserved estates and the lush, manicured gardens. Each home tells a story, often linked to legendary names like Marilyn Monroe, Elvis Presley, and Elizabeth Taylor. The neighborhood's tranquil atmosphere provides the perfect backdrop for a leisurely walk or bike ride, allowing visitors to soak in the serene beauty of the surroundings. Old Las Palmas is not just about its past; it also boasts a vibrant present. The area is conveniently located near some of Palm Springs' best dining, shopping, and cultural experiences. From chic boutiques and art galleries to fine dining restaurants and cozy cafes, there's something to suit every taste. Whether you're a history buff, architecture enthusiast, or simply in search of a picturesque spot to unwind, Old Las Palmas promises a memorable and enriching experience.

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Old Las Palmas.

Wear comfortable walking shoes; the best way to explore is on foot.
Bring a camera; the architecture and gardens are picture-perfect.
Visit during the cooler months for a more pleasant experience.
Check out local tour guides for historical insights and hidden gems.

Explore Old Las Palmas: Things to Do, Places to Eat, Hotels & More

Handpicked recommendations for top attractions, local dining, accommodations, and more

Best attractions in Old Las Palmas

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Agua Caliente Cultural Museum

Explore the vibrant culture and history of the Agua Caliente Band of Cahuilla Indians in the heart of Palm Springs.

4.5

Moorten Botanical Garden

Discover a unique collection of desert plants from around the world at Palm Springs' historic Moorten Botanical Garden, a family-run oasis since 1938, featuring the world's first Cactarium.

4.6

Frances Stevens Park

Escape to tranquility in the heart of Palm Springs at Frances Stevens Park, a lush oasis for relaxation and community events.

4.4

Robolights

Experience the dazzling world of Robolights in Palm Springs: a unique art installation featuring robots, aliens, and holiday scenes crafted from recycled materials and millions of lights.

4.5

Best landmarks in Old Las Palmas

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Walk of the Stars Palm Springs

Discover the glamour of Hollywood at the Walk of the Stars in Palm Springs, a tribute to entertainment legends and a vibrant tourist attraction.

4.4

Liberace House

Explore the Liberace House in Palm Springs, a historical landmark showcasing the flamboyant legacy of America's beloved entertainer with stunning architecture and rich history.

4.6

Shiprock

Discover the breathtaking beauty and historical significance of Shiprock, a must-see natural landmark in Palm Springs, California.

4.6

Cornelia White House

Discover the historical beauty of the Cornelia White House in Downtown Palm Springs, a captivating landmark steeped in early 20th-century charm.

4.8

Best restaurants in Old Las Palmas

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Lulu California Bistro

Experience the vibrant flavors of Californian cuisine at Lulu California Bistro in Downtown Palm Springs – where every meal is a celebration.

4.2

Billy Reed's Palm Springs

Discover delicious American cuisine at Billy Reed's Palm Springs - where breakfast dreams come true amid stunning desert views.

4.6

Farm

Discover authentic Provençal flavors in Downtown Palm Springs at this charming brunch restaurant, perfect for food enthusiasts and casual diners alike.

4.7

The Tropicale Palm Springs

Discover vibrant dining at The Tropicale in Palm Springs—where delicious cuisine meets lively atmosphere for an unforgettable culinary experience.

4.5

Best bars in Old Las Palmas

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Workshop Kitchen & Bar

Indulge in the vibrant culinary scene of Palm Springs at Workshop Kitchen & Bar, where innovation meets exquisite New American dining.

4.2

The Tonga Hut Restaurant and Tiki Bar

Discover a vibrant Tiki bar experience in Palm Springs, offering exotic cocktails and delicious cuisine in a lively atmosphere.

4.3

1501 Uptown Gastropub

Experience the best of Palm Springs dining at 1501 Uptown Gastropub, where innovative cuisine meets a vibrant atmosphere.

4.5

Bootlegger Tiki

Experience the vibrant Tiki culture at Bootlegger Tiki in Palm Springs, where unique cocktails and a tropical ambiance await you.

4.3

Best nightclubs in Old Las Palmas

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Hunters Palm Springs

Experience the vibrant nightlife and delicious American cuisine at Hunters Palm Springs, a must-visit gay bar in the heart of Palm Springs.

4.4

Chill Bar

Experience the vibrant nightlife at Chill Bar in Palm Springs, where cocktails, dancing, and inclusivity meet in a lively atmosphere.

4.0

The Alibi

Experience the vibrant cocktail culture and lively music scene at The Alibi in Downtown Palm Springs, a must-visit destination for nightlife enthusiasts.

3.6

Copa Nightclub

Discover the electrifying nightlife at Copa Nightclub, where top DJs, live music, and a vibrant atmosphere create unforgettable nights in Palm Springs.

4.3

Best shops in Old Las Palmas

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Just Fabulous Palm Springs

Explore Just Fabulous Palm Springs for unique gifts, local art, and souvenirs that encapsulate the spirit of the desert.

4.7

Trina Turk | Mr Turk | Palm Springs Boutique

Explore Trina Turk Boutique for vibrant clothing and accessories reflecting the essence of Palm Springs fashion.

4.6

The Shops At Thirteen Forty Five

Experience the charm of The Shops At Thirteen Forty Five in Palm Springs, where unique boutiques and a vibrant shopping atmosphere await.

4.9

Iconic Atomic

Explore the charm of vintage fashion at Iconic Atomic in Palm Springs, where unique clothing and accessories await every retro enthusiast.

4.6

Explore Old Las Palmas on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots in Old Las Palmas, mapped for you.

Old Las Palmas Essentials

Old Las Palmas is easily accessible from various parts of Palm Springs. If you are traveling from downtown Palm Springs, you can take a short taxi ride or use a rideshare service, which will take approximately 5-10 minutes. If you are coming from the Palm Springs International Airport, taxis and rideshare options are available, and the drive will take around 10-15 minutes. The neighborhood is also within walking distance from nearby areas like the Uptown Design District.
Old Las Palmas is best explored on foot or by bicycle due to its scenic streets and historic architecture. Rentals for bicycles are available at local shops. Palm Springs also has a bus service, known as SunLine Transit, which connects various neighborhoods, including stops near Old Las Palmas. Taxis and rideshare services are readily available for longer distances or if you prefer not to walk.
Old Las Palmas is generally considered a safe neighborhood for tourists. However, it is advised to take standard precautions such as avoiding poorly lit areas at night and keeping your belongings secure. Certain areas in Palm Springs, particularly some parts of the east side, may have higher crime rates; it is wise to be cautious and remain aware of your surroundings.
In case of an emergency, dial 911 for immediate assistance. The nearest hospital is Desert Regional Medical Center, and there are several urgent care facilities in Palm Springs. It's advisable to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies and to keep a list of local emergency contacts handy.
Fashion: Do wear lightweight, breathable clothing suitable for the desert climate, and be mindful of local styles. Don’t wear overly casual attire when dining in upscale restaurants. Religion: Do respect the privacy of residents and avoid intruding on private properties. Public Transport: Do wait patiently for your turn when using public transport. Don’t engage in loud conversations. Greetings: Do greet locals with a friendly smile and 'hello.' Don’t expect all residents to engage in prolonged conversation. Eating & Drinking: Do try local eateries and enjoy outdoor dining. Don’t bring outside food to restaurants as it may be frowned upon.
To experience Old Las Palmas like a local, take a leisurely stroll and admire the mid-century modern architecture and lush landscapes. Visit the local cafes for a morning coffee and engage in conversations with residents about the neighborhood’s history. Don’t miss the annual Palm Springs Modernism Week if you are visiting in February, as it showcases the area's architectural heritage. For a unique experience, explore the hidden gardens and private homes in the area, which sometimes have open houses or community events.

With Eve

Useful Local Phrases for Old Las Palmas

You don't need to speak the language perfectly. Even learning a few simple words can make conversations warmer—and locals usually appreciate the effort.

— Eve

6 phrase groups English + pronunciation

Here are the phrases I use most often in Old Las Palmas. Try a few—you'll be surprised how far they go! 😊
❤️

- HelloHola
  [oh-lah]
- GoodbyeAdiós
  [ah-dee-ohs]
- YesSí
  [see]
- NoNo
  [noh]
- Please/You're welcomePor favor/De nada
  [por fah-vor/de nah-dah]
- Thank youGracias
  [grah-see-ahs]
- Excuse me/SorryPerdón/Lo siento
  [pair-dohn/loh see-en-toh]
- How are you?¿Cómo estás?
  [koh-moh ehs-tahs]
- Fine. And you?Bien. ¿Y tú?
  [bee-ehn. ee too]
- Do you speak English?¿Hablas inglés?
  [ah-blahs een-glays]
- I don't understandNo entiendo
  [noh ehn-tee-ehn-doh]
- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseMe gustaría ver el menú, por favor
  [meh goo-stah-ree-ah vehr ehl meh-noo, por fah-vor]
- I don't eat meatNo como carne
  [noh koh-moh kahr-neh]
- Cheers!¡Salud!
  [sah-loohd]
- I would like to pay, pleaseMe gustaría pagar, por favor
  [meh goo-stah-ree-ah pah-gahr, por fah-vor]
- Help!¡Ayuda!
  [ah-yoo-dah]
- Go away!¡Vete!
  [veh-teh]
- Call the Police!¡Llama a la Policía!
  [yah-mah ah lah poh-lee-see-ah]
- Call a doctor!¡Llama a un médico!
  [yah-mah ah oon meh-dee-koh]
- I'm lostEstoy perdido
  [ehs-toy pair-dee-doh]
- I'm illEstoy enfermo
  [ehs-toy ehn-fehr-moh]
- I'd like to buy...Quisiera comprar...
  [kee-see-eh-rah kohm-prahr]
- I'm just lookingSólo estoy mirando
  [soh-loh ehs-toy mee-rahn-doh]
- How much is it?¿Cuánto cuesta?
  [kwahn-toh kwehs-tah]
- That's too expensiveEso es demasiado caro
  [eh-soh ehs deh-mah-see-ah-doh kah-roh]
- Can you lower the price?¿Puede bajar el precio?
  [pweh-deh bah-hahr ehl preh-see-oh]
- What time is it?¿Qué hora es?
  [keh oh-rah ehs]
- It's one o'clockEs la una
  [ehs lah oo-nah]
- Half past (10)Media (10)
  [meh-dee-ah (deez)]
- MorningMañana
  [mah-nyah-nah]
- AfternoonTarde
  [tahr-deh]
- EveningNoche
  [noh-cheh]
- YesterdayAyer
  [ah-yehr]
- TodayHoy
  [hoy]
- TomorrowMañana
  [mah-nyah-nah]
- 1Uno
  [oo-noh]
- 2Dos
  [dohs]
- 3Tres
  [trehs]
- 4Cuatro
  [kwah-troh]
- 5Cinco
  [seen-koh]
- 6Seis
  [says]
- 7Siete
  [syeh-teh]
- 8Ocho
  [oh-choh]
- 9Nueve
  [nweh-veh]
- 10Diez
  [dyehs]
- Where's a/the...?¿Dónde está...?
  [dohn-deh ehs-tah]
- What's the address?¿Cuál es la dirección?
  [kwahl ehs lah dee-rehk-see-ohn]
- Can you show me (on the map)?¿Puedes mostrarme (en el mapa)?
  [pweh-dehs mohs-trar-meh (ehn ehl mah-pah)]
- When's the next (bus)?¿Cuándo es el próximo (autobús)?
  [kwan-doh ehs ehl proh-see-moh (ow-toh-boos)]
- A ticket (to ....)Un boleto (a ....)
  [oon boh-leh-toh (ah)]

History of Old Las Palmas

Old Las Palmas was established in the 1920s as one of Palm Springs' first residential neighborhoods, primarily attracting Hollywood celebrities and affluent individuals seeking a desert retreat. The area was originally part of a large ranch owned by the Agua Caliente Band of Cahuilla Indians, who sold parcels of land to developers. The neighborhood's charm lies in its lush landscapes and mid-century modern architecture, which became iconic symbols of the era.
During the 1930s and 1940s, Old Las Palmas became a favored getaway for Hollywood stars, including Frank Sinatra, Lucille Ball, and Cary Grant. Many of these celebrities built lavish homes, contributing to the neighborhood's allure and popularity. The proximity to Los Angeles made it easy for stars to escape the hustle of Hollywood while still enjoying the comforts of luxury living in a serene desert environment.
Old Las Palmas is renowned for its stunning mid-century modern architecture, characterized by clean lines and integration with the surrounding landscape. Notable architects such as Richard Neutra and Albert Frey were instrumental in designing homes that reflected the aesthetic of the time. The neighborhood remains an important site for architectural enthusiasts and historians alike, showcasing a unique blend of style and function.
As the years progressed, Old Las Palmas experienced cultural shifts, including a resurgence of interest in its historical significance. Preservation efforts have been made to protect the unique architecture and the character of the neighborhood. Events such as Modernism Week highlight the importance of mid-century design and celebrate the legacy of Old Las Palmas as a center of California's modernist movement.
Today, Old Las Palmas is a sought-after neighborhood known for its privacy, luxury, and vibrant history. The area has transformed into a desirable location for both full-time residents and seasonal visitors. The blend of historical significance and modern amenities continues to attract those interested in a lifestyle that embodies the glamour of Palm Springs' past while enjoying contemporary comforts.