When hosting a meeting or event in the Golden State, a background of sandy beaches and ocean waves might come to mind, but another sun-soaked option lies in the heart of Southern California’s Coachella Valley—Greater Palm Springs. With a deep-rooted history tied to the Agua Caliente Band of Cahuilla Indians, the cultural canvas of the nine cities that compose the region is rich, ensuring a remarkable gathering experience.
Vibe: “Boasting over 300 days of sunshine annually and surrounded by the majestic San Jacinto, Santa Rosa, and Little San Bernardino mountains, the region offers an inspiring setting for meetings and events,” says Carolina Viazcan, vice president of sales at Visit Greater Palm Springs. “Greater Palm Springs’ welcoming atmosphere and stunning landscapes create a backdrop that fosters creativity, connection, and productivity.”
Transportation: If attendees aren’t from the area, they can fly into Palm Springs International Airport. From there, the nine cities—Palm Springs, Desert Hot Springs, Cathedral City, Rancho Mirage, Palm Desert, Indian Wells, La Quinta, Indio, and Coachella—are within proximity to catch a ride on the SunLine (the Coachella Valley public bus system) or call an Uber or Lyft.
Hotels: “Greater Palm Springs has a wide variety of meeting-friendly hotels, each with its own unique vibe and offerings that make planning events exciting,” says Viazcan. Thompson Palm Springs opened at the end of last year and features a sleek, midcentury-modern design with 8,000 square feet of function space. The iconic La Quinta Resort & Club is steeped in history, while the JW Marriott Desert Springs Resort & Spa in Palm Desert embraces the surrounding desert beauty.
Venues: The largest venue for events is the Palm Springs Convention Center, home to 245,000 square feet of versatile space and complemented by a stunning mountain backdrop. The nearby Jackie Lee Houston Plaza adds a flexible outdoor option, notes Viazcan. “For those seeking a midcentury-modern vibe, properties like the [former] Dinah Shore Estate offer an intimate, yet iconic setting,” she adds. Give events a feeling of celebration by gathering at the Empire Polo Club grounds in Indio, home of the Coachella Valley Music and Arts Festival, amid its 1,000 acres of lush gardens and pristine fields.
Restaurants: When in Greater Palm Springs, a visit to dinner theater PS Underground is a must. “Known for its ever-changing themed menus, it’s perfect for groups looking to combine exceptional cuisine with an unforgettable experience,” says Viazcan. Embrace farm-to-table fare under the stars at Aziz Farms with its long, outdoor communal tables or explore a menu of innovative plates at Eight4Nine Restaurant & Lounge.
Must-Sees & -Dos: “Groups can learn to make Chef Lance Velasquez’s famous biscuits at Alice B. restaurant, combining culinary skills with teamwork,” says Viazcan. “For a creative outlet, the Superbloom color experience lets participants upcycle items into vibrant works of art, blending sustainability with artistic expression. Teams also can relax and rejuvenate with Good Vibes Sound Bath’s healing meditations, immersing themselves in calming soundscapes while floating in mineral-rich waters.”
