Thompson Palm Springs Hotel Review (2026)
Luxury, location, and a splash of desert glam — Thompson Palm Springs continues to be one of the most exciting places to stay in the Coachella Valley. With its unbeatable downtown address, Instagram-worthy mid-century-inspired design, and a social Pool Club scene that draws travelers and locals alike, this hotel remains a standout choice for LGBTQ+ travelers heading to Palm Springs.
Whether you’re planning a romantic escape, a Pride or Modernism Week trip, or a stylish weekend with friends, Thompson Palm Springs delivers a polished yet playful experience — now with even more reasons to stay.
Whether you’re planning a romantic escape, a Pride or Modernism Week trip, or a stylish weekend with friends, Thompson Palm Springs delivers a polished yet playful experience — now with even more reasons to stay.
Why Stay at Thompson Palm Springs: What’s New for 2026
Located directly along Palm Canyon Drive, Thompson Palm Springs acts as a gateway to the city’s Design District, surrounded by vintage shops, galleries, eclectic dining, and boutique shopping. The hotel feels plugged into the energy of downtown while still offering elevated, resort-style relaxation above the street.
All 168 guest rooms, including 18 superior suites, feature either balconies or patios with sweeping desert and mountain views — a major upgrade over many downtown hotels that lack outdoor space. New for recent years, Upper Stories, a 21+ adults-only enclave, adds an extra layer of exclusivity with 42 private rooms, two expansive 1,400-square-foot specialty suites, and a dedicated private pool and bar designed for guests seeking a quieter, more refined experience.
Dining and retail have expanded significantly as well. In addition to the ever-popular Lola Rose Grand Mezze, guests can now enjoy HALL Napa Valley Tasting Room & Wine Lounge, browse Design Within Reach, and dine at Bar Issi, a new coastal Italian restaurant by the Boujis Group. With over 35,000 square feet of retail and dining, Thompson Palm Springs now feels like a true lifestyle destination — not just a place to sleep.
Location: Prime Downtown Palm Springs
Nestled just off Palm Canyon Drive, Thompson Palm Springs puts you steps from the best of downtown. Boutique shopping, top-rated restaurants, coffee shops, and Palm Springs’ legendary Arenas Road nightlife are all an easy walk away.
Iconic landmarks like the Marilyn Monroe statue and Old Las Palmas’ mid-century modern neighborhoods are nearby, making sightseeing effortless. Palm Springs International Airport is just a 10-minute drive away.
One of our favorite perks: the hotel’s house car — a sleek Rivian — offers complimentary rides within a three-mile radius, including airport transfers. It’s a small but meaningful luxury that makes arrivals and nights out especially smooth.
Facilities: Modern Design Meets Desert Charm
At the heart of the property is the Lola Rose Pool Club, a gorgeous central pool surrounded by loungers and private cabanas — ideal for soaking up the desert sun. We love that plush, fitted towels are thoughtfully placed on every chair each morning, complete with a discreet pocket for your room key or valuables.
The resort’s open-air design is pure Palm Springs: desert landscaping, succulents and cacti, breezy walkways, bocce lawns, oversized outdoor games, and cozy fire pits that come alive at night.
Guests also have access to a state-of-the-art fitness center, making it easy to balance pool days with workouts.
Upper Stories (Adults-Only Experience)
Tucked into a more secluded enclave, Upper Stories is Thompson Palm Springs’ refined, adults-only escape. Designed for privacy and tranquility, this premium experience includes:
- 42 upscale rooms and suites with private balconies
- Two expansive specialty suites
- Exclusive access to a private pool and bar
- Priority access to dining, retail, and select events
If you want a calmer, more elevated stay without losing access to the hotel’s main social energy, Upper Stories is absolutely worth the upgrade.
Rooms: Bungalow-Inspired Luxury
Thompson Palm Springs’ rooms and suites are a design lover’s dream. Expect light woods, geometric rugs, velvet seating, and leather accents — all in a neutral palette inspired by the surrounding desert landscape.
Bathrooms are pure indulgence, featuring spacious walk-in showers, high-end bath products, and plush robes and slippers that feel genuinely luxurious.
Every room includes either a private balcony or enclosed courtyard, creating a peaceful personal retreat — something we always appreciate after a long pool day or night out.
Food & Drink: A Growing Culinary Scene
Dining is one of Thompson Palm Springs’ strongest assets — and it continues to expand.
Lola Rose Grand Mezze
The star of the show remains Lola Rose Grand Mezze, where Levantine-inspired share plates meet fresh California ingredients. The menu is vibrant, social, and perfectly suited for group dining or date nights.
Poolside service is a highlight, with crisp salads, Mediterranean specialties, savory comfort dishes, and a full cocktail menu. Don’t leave without ordering Lola’s Painkiller — it’s refreshing, indulgent, and dangerously easy to sip under the desert sun.
Pool Club Bar
The Pool Club Bar features a dual setup: one side reserved for hotel guests and day-pass holders, and the other open to the public. The public-facing terrace is a hidden gem for sunset cocktails, offering panoramic mountain views and a lively but relaxed atmosphere.
More Options
- HALL Napa Valley Tasting Room & Wine Lounge — refined wines, curated bites, and a polished indoor-outdoor setting
- Bar Issi — a coastal Italian vacation-style restaurant by the Boujis Group on Palm Canyon Drive
- In-room dining — plus full poolside food service for days you don’t want to move
Even if you’re not staying at the hotel, the Pool Club offers day passes and cabana rentals, making it a popular daytime hangout during busy weekends.
Overall Experience: Fantastic Blend of Luxury & Fun
Thompson Palm Springs continues to strike that rare balance between high-end luxury and effortless fun. Service is warm and polished, the design is impeccable, and the vibe feels inclusive, stylish, and unmistakably Palm Springs.
Whether you’re floating in the pool, sipping wine at sunset, or heading out for a night on Arenas Road, everything feels easy — and elevated.
Travel Tips: For An Unforgettable Trip
Before we wrap up, here are a few quick travel tips for your Thompson Palm Springs stay:
- Book early for peak periods like Pride, Modernism Week, and Coachella
- Pack smart — sunscreen, hats, and stylish swimwear are essentials
- Rent a car for day trips to Joshua Tree, the Aerial Tramway, or Cabazon Outlets (we rent prefer to use Booking for car rentals)
Overnight valet parking is included with the $49 resort fee, along with use of bikes and the house car.
Ready To Book?
Your desert oasis awaits at Thompson Palm Springs. Whether you’re craving luxury, relaxation, or a lively poolside scene, this downtown favorite continues to deliver — now with even more reasons to stay.
🌟 Pro tip – Planning a trip Palm Springs? From the best LGBTQ+ hotels to must-visit attractions, dining, and travel tips, find it all in our Gay Travel Guide to Palm Springs.
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