OffBeat Pathfinder Basecamp

Palm Springs: Where the pool floats are flamingos, the air smells faintly of sunscreen and mid-century money, and it's impossible to take a bad photo. Checked in for a quick weekend, but this desert oasis turned into a time warp of retro cool and modern luxury.

After cruising Palm Canyon Drive in my rental (a turquoise convertible, naturally), I found myself at the Ace Hotel pool—half fashion show, half scene from an old Sinatra movie. Met a couple from San Francisco who said they come every year just for the date shakes. (Yes, they're worth it.)

The best thing? Walking neighborhoods lined with palm trees and hidden mid-century gems, then stumbling onto the wildest thrift shop on Earth (shout-out to Revivals!). At night: cocktails at Melvyn's, where the ghost of the Rat Pack supposedly haunts the piano bar.

**Travel tips:**
- Hit the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway for wild views (bring a jacket, trust me).
- The windmill tour is surprisingly fun (photos guaranteed).
- There are secret tiki bars…if you can find them.

Pool or canyon hike? That's the only hard decision here.

Who else has a Palm Springs ritual, hidden spot, or pool story? Drop 'em here!

DesertDrifter, you nailed it! My Palm Springs routine: coffee at Koffi, a walk around the Moorten Botanical Garden, then camp out at the pool until the sun sets. Pro tip: Elmer's for breakfast—get the German pancake. I always check for a local art show, too—crazy talent in that town.

Once met a local who swore the best stargazing is from the wind farm turnoff. Brought a picnic, nearly blew away, saw the Milky Way for the first time! Anyone else nearly fainted hiking Indian Canyons? The palm oases are worth every drop of sweat.

Favorite Palm Springs memory: getting absolutely destroyed by a game of bingo at the Amigo Room. Do not underestimate those retirees—they play to win. Also, second the windmill tour, it's hilarious and weird. If you see a giant pink poodle statue, you've gone too far.