Planning the perfect Palm Springs weekend getaway? If you’re searching for a hotel that’s more than just a place to sleep, look no further. The Ace Hotel & Swim Club is a desert icon, a mid-century modern oasis that blends a laid-back vibe with a vibrant social scene. It’s the kind of place you check into and never want to leave.
Whether you’re visiting for a festival, a bachelorette party, or just a sunny escape, this insider’s guide will show you why the Ace Hotel is consistently ranked as one of the best hotels in Palm Springs.
The Vibe: Sun, Swim, and Socialize
The heart of the Ace Hotel experience is the Swim Club, a sprawling pool deck that’s always buzzing with energy. Forget quiet, sleepy hotel pools; this is the place to see and be seen. With two stunning pools, a massive hot tub, and a calendar full of events, the pool deck is where the magic happens.
- Lounge in Style: Grab a colorful, comfy daybed or splurge on a private cabana with dedicated service. The new cabanas offer a chic, shaded retreat with built-in seating, perfect for sipping cocktails with friends. And yes, those cool hexagonal cushions? They double as floaties, so you can take your lounging from the deck to the water.
- The Soundtrack to Your Getaway: A custom DJ booth sits at the edge of the pool, with a rotating lineup of DJs spinning everything from chill indie pop to upbeat funk. With weekend DJ sets, night swims, and a dedicated stargazing deck, the party doesn’t stop when the sun goes down.
- Day Passes and Memberships: Not staying at the hotel? No problem. The Swim Club offers day, month, and even year-long passes, so you can enjoy the Ace Hotel pool scene whenever you’re in town. It’s the perfect way to get a taste of the Ace experience, with access to the pools, hot tubs, and poolside food and drink service from Kings Highway.
The Drinks: Craft Cocktails at The Amigo Room
When you’re ready to escape the sun, head to The Amigo Room, a cool, dark, and intimate bar located just off the lobby. With its earthy, desert-inspired decor and a cocktail menu that’s both creative and classic, it’s a favorite among hotel guests and Palm Springs locals.
- Inventive Cocktails: The drink menu features unique takes on old favorites. Try the Amigo Old Fashioned, a sophisticated blend of bourbon, Averna, and date, or the Corn & Oil, a refreshing mix of aged rum, falernum, and lime with a frothy coconut foam top.
- Fan Favorites: You can’t go wrong with house specials like the Cosmic Time (vodka, Lillet Blanc, and raspberry) or the Dauntless, a rich and decadent mix of chocolate-infused tequila and espresso.
- The Perfect Atmosphere: With its mix of terracotta, sage, and rich wood tones, The Amigo Room feels both modern and timeless. It’s the ideal spot for a pre-dinner drink, a late-night chat, or a lively celebration with friends.
The “I Do”: Unforgettable Palm Springs Weddings
Looking for a wedding venue that’s as unique as you are? The Ace Hotel is one of the most sought-after wedding venues in Palm Springs, known for its flexible, inclusive, and effortlessly cool approach to celebrations.
- Versatile Event Spaces: With over 4,000 square feet of indoor and outdoor space, you can design a wedding that’s perfectly you. The Commune is a large, versatile space that opens onto a private pool, while The Amigo Room offers a more intimate setting. You can even say your vows on the stargazing deck or in the clubhouse overlooking the mountains.
- A Celebration of You: The Ace team is all about celebrating love in all its forms. Their gender-neutral, design-flexible spaces are a blank canvas for your vision, whether you’re planning a non-traditional ceremony, a creative seating chart, or a reception filled with bold, personal touches.
- A Full Weekend Experience: Why limit the fun to just one day? The Ace’s walkable layout makes it easy to plan a full wedding weekend, with a poolside welcome party, a day-after brunch, or a cozy firepit after-party.
Know Before You Go: Fun Facts About Palm Springs
- Pools, Pools, Everywhere: Palm Springs has more swimming pools per capita than any other city in the U.S., making it the ultimate destination for a poolside vacation.
- Hollywood’s Desert Playground: In the golden age of Hollywood, actors were required to stay within two hours of the studio. Palm Springs became the go-to getaway for stars like Frank Sinatra and Marilyn Monroe.
- A Mid-Century Modern Dream: The city is famous for its incredible collection of mid-century modern architecture. Be sure to take a driving tour to see some of the iconic homes.
- The Date Capital: The Coachella Valley produces about 80% of the dates in the United States. Don’t leave without trying a famous date shake!
Photos by Tim Hirschmann