Labor Day weekend in Palm Springs is kind of a no-brainer. It’s the unofficial end-of-summer sendoff with just the right mix of laid-back desert energy and everything-you-could-want convenience. Whether you’re in it for the poolside lounging, the shopping, the food, or just soaking up those iconic mountain views, Palm Springs over Labor Day is peak long weekend material. And the smart move? Start planning early.
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Plan Ahead and Book Your Stay
One of the best parts of doing Labor Day in Palm Springs is how easy it is to make it whatever you want. Want it to be a total recharge weekend? Easy. Want it to feel like a mini version of your spring break glory days? Also doable. But the trick is nailing down your home base early because this weekend books up fast, and the right rental can make all the difference.
A TRAVLR vacation rental is kind of the dream setup for a weekend like this. You get privacy, space, and that totally low-maintenance vibe you can’t really find at a hotel. You wake up when you want, cook what you want (or don’t), and go at your own pace. And with things like private pools, hot tubs, home theaters, casitas for guests, and even EV outlets, you don’t have to compromise on comfort or convenience.
Built-In Pool Days Without Leaving Your Rental
The best part? You can build a whole day around staying put. Plan one of your mornings to sleep in, make breakfast, and then settle into an all-day pool hang with drinks, snacks, and whatever playlist fits your crew. If you’re renting with TRAVLR, that pool setup is going to feel more like a boutique resort than someone’s backyard.
Explore Downtown and Beyond
Once you’ve worked in a proper lazy pool day, you’ll probably want to explore a little. The great thing about Palm Springs is how compact and easy it is to navigate. Downtown is filled with walkable spots to grab brunch or poke around mid-century modern furniture shops. If you’re into vintage hunting, you’ll find more than a few gems. Just be prepared to make a mental note of ten things you suddenly “need” for your apartment.
If you’re craving some nature and fresh air, the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway is a solid option. It’s just a short drive from downtown and gives you panoramic views along with a cooler change of pace up top. The trails are mellow, the air is crisp, and it’s a nice contrast to the desert floor heat.
Spa Days and Rooftop Drinks
If your crew is more spa-and-sip than hike-and-sweat, that’s covered too. Book a massage at one of the local resorts (many take day spa appointments even if you’re not staying there) and then follow it up with happy hour at a rooftop spot like 4 Saints. Watch the sunset hit the mountains, cocktail in hand, and take in the easy energy of the evening.
Nightlife That Fits Your Vibe
Nightlife over Labor Day weekend is all about options. You can keep it relaxed with dinner and drinks at a place like Birba or Workshop Kitchen + Bar, both of which offer a stylish atmosphere without being too scene-y. Or you can lean into the weekend and head to The Nest or Toucans for music and dancing. If staying in is more your speed, some TRAVLR homes include outdoor fire pits or theater setups, so you can wind down with a movie or post-dinner drinks without leaving the house.
Day Trips and Nearby Gems
Palm Springs is also close to a few other desert cities that are worth the short drive. Palm Desert and La Quinta both have their own personality, and El Paseo in Palm Desert is perfect for a luxe shopping break. Grab lunch, browse the boutiques, and take a quick break from the poolside routine.
Arrive Early and Beat the Rush
If you can swing it, showing up on Thursday or early Friday has its perks. Restaurants are easier to get into, the streets are quieter, and you can experience the best parts of the area before the big weekend crowds roll in. It’s the best way to get the most out of your stay without battling lines or waitlists.
Don’t Wait to Book
Whether you’re planning a getaway with friends, a couples escape, or just want to swap your usual scenery for a weekend of sun and style, Palm Springs is about as foolproof as it gets for Labor Day. The key is locking it in now. TRAVLR has a range of vacation rentals across the valley that are set up to make your trip effortless, memorable, and exactly how you want it. Don’t wait until everything’s booked or overpriced. Get your place, plan your pool day, and make this Labor Day one to look forward to!
If you think you’ve seen everything Palm Springs has to offer, think again. Beyond the mid-century homes and resort pools, this desert escape hides a few surprises. Whether you’re back for another visit or exploring for the first time, it’s worth checking out the unexpected side of town. Check out our guide to unexpected things to do in Palm Springs below!
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Visit the Palm Springs Air Museum
You might not expect a top-tier aviation museum in the middle of the desert, but the Palm Springs Air Museum is a standout. This spot is home to one of the world’s largest collections of World War II aircraft, and many of the planes are still in flyable condition. You can walk right up to the aircraft, chat with volunteer pilots and veterans, and even book a ride in a vintage warbird if you’re feeling bold.
It’s educational, interactive, and surprisingly moving. The hangars are filled with personal stories, artifacts, and history that bring each plane to life. Whether you’re a history buff or just curious about flight, it’s a memorable experience that adds a whole new layer to your Palm Springs trip.
Tour the Moorten Botanical Garden
Tucked away near downtown, Moorten Botanical Garden is a compact but stunning space dedicated entirely to desert plants. Cacti, succulents, and rare arid-climate specimens fill the grounds, along with a quirky greenhouse known as the “Cactarium.”
This privately-owned garden has been around since 1938 and offers a peaceful escape from the more crowded spots around town. You don’t need a lot of time (an hour or less is plenty) but the photos, the atmosphere, and the variety of plant life make it a small but mighty stop. If you’ve never seen a cactus garden up close, you’re in for a pleasant surprise.
Ride the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway
Many visitors know about the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway, but fewer know that at the top lies an entirely different ecosystem worth exploring. After your ride up to Mount San Jacinto State Park, step off the tram and take a hike on one of the well-marked trails. Instead of desert, you’ll find alpine forest, cool temperatures, and stunning views.
It’s a great way to experience the dramatic contrast in elevation and environment that makes this region so unique. In the summer, it’s a refreshing break from the heat below. In the winter, you might even find snow. Hiking up here feels like visiting another world, and it adds a bit of adventure to your otherwise relaxing getaway.
Visit the International Banana Museum
For something truly unexpected, take a short drive to nearby Mecca, California and check out the International Banana Museum. This small roadside attraction claims the title of “most banana-related items in one place,” and it delivers. Think banana mugs, banana toys, banana-themed clothing, and more.
It’s silly, colorful, and totally Instagram-worthy. If you have a sense of humor and enjoy quirky roadside attractions, it’s well worth the detour. They even serve banana milkshakes and candy, so you can enjoy a treat while you browse the collection. It’s not something most travelers expect to find in the desert, which makes it all the more fun.
Stay Somewhere as Unique as the Destination
After a day of exploring the more unexpected side of Palm Springs, it only makes sense to stay somewhere just as special. TRAVLR Vacation Homes is a local boutique property management company offering a thoughtfully curated collection of unique homes in the California desert. These are properties that reflect the character and charm of the area while giving you all the comfort and style you want on your getaway.
Our homes are packed with amenities to make your stay unforgettable, including pools, hot tubs, private movie theaters, EV charging stations, and even separate casitas for extra privacy. Whether you’re traveling solo, with a group of friends, or bringing the whole family, we have properties that fit your needs and exceed your expectations.
Unlike traditional hotels, TRAVLR Vacation Homes give you space to relax, cook, spread out, and feel like a local. And since we’re based right here in the area, we’re always available to offer tips, help with recommendations, or make sure everything goes smoothly from check-in to check-out.
Go Beyond the Poolside Routine
Make your Palm Springs vacation even better by pairing these unique experiences with a one-of-a-kind stay from TRAVLR Vacation Homes. You’ll have the perfect home base to relax, recharge, and explore everything this unique desert destination has to offer. Contact us today!