Palm Springs Travel Guide

In between producing the Spring 2019 photo shoot for Leota, Leota Founder and CEO Sarah Carson enjoyed family time and consuming the beauty of this iconic mid-century design city. Here is Sarah's guide to the best of Palm Springs.

Where to stay

Parker Palm Springs, by Jonathan Adler

I love Jonathan Adler for his fearless use of color, humorously sexy midcentury-inspired interior design, and generous support of progressive causes. The Parker is a treat, taking every color risk in the book. It’s worth staying for a cocktail and channeling Anne Bancroft for a bit.

Rent a mid-century house

The fully restored original architecture of this 1959 midcentury villa was our home for the week and the set for the Spring 2019 photo shoot. Palm Springs’ iconic terracotta-hued mountain was just beyond the fence.

This iconic Slim Aarons photo hung in our house:

Indulge

Massage at the Estrella Spa

Enjoy a massage and a glass of champagne beside the lovely scalloped-edge pool at the Avalon.

Shop for the boys

As a mecca for Old Hollywood and gay men, Palm Springs is perfect place to shop for the men in your life who need an upgrade (regardless of their persuasion). Here are two purveyors of the casual, slim, cool guy menswear that defines the Palm Springs lifestyle. I bought euro swim trunks for the men in my life at Gaymart - yes you read that right. When in Rome! And for a full fashion collection, I recommend Parke & Ronen. These partners in business in life are my fellow DENYC alums. I have always admired their contemporary, wearable, and fun men’s fashion.

Shop for the girls

Treasure hunt for vintage fashion and midcentury furniture. I love Modern Way and The Frippery.

Outdoors

Hiking, jogging, cycling are a thrill with this gorgeous red mountain crawling up from the edge of town. Just finish before the sun goes behind the mountain!

Makeup & Hair

The sunshine and legacy of midcentury design had me inspired by Verushka, Jean Shrimpton, and my mom’s high school prom photos from back when we were allowed to get a tan. Think ponytails, liquid liner, and frost.

Eat

We hired a private chef for our large family at the gorgeous home we rented. Dana and Kenyata left the crazy life of NYC restaurants to open their private catering business in Palm Springs. Admire that brave move - and the food and service was very special. If you’re going out, Workshop is very chic.

What to pack

Wrinkle-free, packable, versatile pieces are all you need. If you pack properly, you should never ever have to check a bag!

Styles from the Spring 2019 photoshoot are perfect: