DESERT REGION
MeetingsInPalmSprings.com; @VisitGreaterPS—Nestled in the heart of the Southern California desert, Greater Palm Springs combines year-round sunshine, striking desert landscapes, and world-class meeting facilities. The region’s unique combination of luxury resorts, innovative venues, and outdoor adventures allows planners to craft programs to inspire creativity, encourage well-being, and leave a lasting impression. “What sets us apart is the ability to create experiences that inspire creativity and well-being—whether through state-of-the-art venues, luxury resorts, or outdoor adventures in our mountains and canyons,” says Carolina Viazcan, vice president of sales for Visit Greater Palm Springs. “Our niche is the seamless integration of wellness, innovation, and accessibility, which keeps planners returning year after year.”
Each of Greater Palm Springs’ nine cities offers its own distinct character and opportunities for planners to create memorable experiences. Palm Springs is renowned for its iconic mid-century modern architecture, vibrant arts scene, and cultural landmarks that provide a creative backdrop for meetings and events. Desert Hot Springs draws visitors with natural hot mineral waters and boutique wellness resorts, making it an ideal destination for programs centered on relaxation and rejuvenation.
Cathedral City boasts culture and cuisine. The historic Mary Pickford Theatre hosts performances, while growing culinary offerings highlight local flavors. Rancho Mirage is synonymous with luxury; it features high-end resorts, championship golf, the Rancho Mirage Observatory, and the historic Sunnylands Center & Gardens, which has welcomed world leaders. Palm Desert offers premier shopping and dining along the famous El Paseo, perfect for incentive trips or leisure extensions.
Indian Wells combines upscale resorts with the renowned Indian Wells Tennis Garden, creating opportunities for exclusive sporting events and VIP experiences. La Quinta blends historic resort charm with championship golf at PGA West and the inviting ambiance of Old Town. Indio hosts the internationally celebrated Coachella and Stagecoach festivals, while also offering authentic dining and cultural experiences rooted in the region’s heritage. In Coachella, rich Indigenous and agricultural history, colorful murals, and immersive art installations provide planners with creative, out-of-the-box programming.
Greater Palm Springs offers more than 20,000 guest rooms spread across its nine vibrant cities. From luxury resorts to boutique lifestyle hotels, the region continues to evolve. Recent renovations and expansions have elevated the experience for attendees.
In Palm Springs, the Thompson Palm Springs stands out as a lifestyle hotel in the Design District; its rooftop event spaces combine modern style with city views. Nearby, the Riviera Palm Springs (IHG) is undergoing a multi-year renovation of its 354 rooms and versatile meeting spaces, ensuring a refreshed, contemporary experience for groups.
In Indian Wells, Grand Hyatt Resort & Villas offers upgraded accommodations and enhanced villas, along with more than 88,000 square feet of indoor and outdoor meeting space—ideal for retreats, incentive programs, or large conferences. Celebrating a century as a legendary meeting destination, La Quinta Resort & Club blends historic charm with modern functionality—featuring 190,000 square feet of event space, historic casitas,
and championship golf.
Wellness-focused groups will find a perfect fit at Sensei Porcupine Creek in Rancho Mirage, a luxury resort designed for relaxation
and rejuvenation.
Beyond its impressive accommodations, Greater Palm Springs offers versatile meeting venues. Palm Springs Convention Center anchors the region, with 261,000 square feet of event space and convenient adjacency to 1,600 hotel rooms. A modernization project already underway at the convention center will enhance pedestrian access and downtown connectivity.
Resort properties across the area provide additional flexibility and unique experiences. JW Marriott Desert Springs Resort & Spa in Palm Desert offers 884 rooms and 210,000 square feet of meeting space, including 74,368 square feet indoors. Renaissance Esmeralda Resort & Spa in Indian Wells features 560 rooms and 213,000 square feet of combined space. The iconic La Quinta Resort & Club boasts 777 guest rooms and 190,000 square feet of indoor and outdoor event areas. Grand Hyatt Indian Wells Resort & Villas provides 530 rooms and 88,000 square feet of indoor space. The Ritz-Carlton, Rancho Mirage offers 244 guest rooms and 30,000 square feet of flexible event space.
Greater Palm Springs offers an array of experiences to transform meetings and events into unforgettable adventures. Just beyond the city limits, groups can explore the stark beauty of Joshua Tree National Park or the vast landscapes of Death Valley National Park, perfect for guided tours, photography excursions, or teambuilding adventures.
Back in the region, planners can incorporate wellness and unique group activities, such as floating sound baths and mineral water spa experiences in Desert Hot Springs, or high-energy excursions like Jeep tours to the San Andreas Fault paired with stargazing in Coachella and La Quinta. Sports enthusiasts can enjoy pickleball, golf, and tennis lessons at world-class resorts in Indian Wells, Rancho Mirage, and La Quinta. Culinary- and art-focused groups can participate in hands-on art tours, cooking classes, and local farm experiences in Indio and Coachella.
Palm Springs Surf Club offers a unique experience that includes surfing, relaxation, and team-play opportunities in a desert setting. The upcoming DSRT Surf, opening summer 2026, promises a next-generation surf park where groups can build skills, camaraderie,
and memories.
Accessibility and inclusivity are core to Greater Palm Springs’ approach to business and leisure travel, including meetings and events. Palm Springs International Airport (PSP) offers expanded nonstop service from destinations throughout the country. That same commitment to connection and convenience extends beyond the airport, shaping the way the destination welcomes every visitor. “Greater Palm Springs is proud to be a Certified Autism Destination, one of the first in California,” Viazcan says. “This recognition reflects our commitment to accessibility, inclusion, and welcoming every attendee.”
