From the mod-forward Uptown Design District to the locally owned stores in the Sunny Dunes neighborhood, we will help you discover the neighborhoods of shopping destinations in the city of Palm Springs.
Palm Springs, the heartbeat of the California desert, is more than just sun-kissed landscapes of swaying palms and sparkling pools; it’s a veritable paradise for the shopping aficionado. Each neighborhood in this sunny haven offers its own unique flavor and flair. So, put on your fanciest shades, grab your water bottle, and let’s embark on a delightful shopping adventure through the four enchanting shopping neighborhoods of Palm Springs!
Downtown Palm Springs: The epicenter of the Palm Springs shopping
This bustling hub is the heartbeat of the city, where retro meets contemporary in a chic, eclectic blend of shops, restaurants and mid-century discoveries.
Stroll down Palm Canyon Drive, where charming boutiques and chic shops beckon with their inviting displays. Don’t miss the iconic Grace Home or H3K for whimsical home décor or Frank Clothiers for stylish sophisticated attire that is the iconic Palm Springs resort style. Looking for the perfect Palm Springs gift to bring home, two local favorites would definitely be Destination PSP, and Just Fabulous, because it is! If you’re in the mood for something sweeter, Brandini Toffee is a must-visit. Their handmade toffee is a delightful treat that’s sure to sweeten your day! No stroll is complete without a visit to Crystal Fantasy, delighting with metaphysical treasures since 1987.
Insider Tip: Look out for the Thursday Villagefest, where local artisans showcase their crafts. From handmade jewelry to delicious food stalls, it’s an experience that captures the essence of Palm Springs.
Arenas Street: The Sassy Side of Shopping
Just a few steps away from Downtown, Arenas Road is where the fun truly begins! Known for its vibrant LGBTQ+ scene, this lively neighborhood is bursting with personality and charm, making it the perfect place for a shopping spree that’s as fabulous as you are.
Here, you’ll find a colorful array of shops ranging from funky party wear to high-end fashion boutiques. Stop by Division Menswear for unique and chic inventory of playful, sexy men’s clothing or Bear Wear, and don’t let the name fool you, this playful store has one of the best selections of t-shirts, bathing suits, and designer underwear, in all sizes! And no shopping excursion is complete without stopping into GayMart, the home of bathing suits and club attire, you can find rainbow sequin shorts next to designer t-shirts.
Insider Tip: After a delightful day of shopping, unwind at Black Book’s beautiful outdoor patio for a cocktail. The atmosphere is always fun, and if you are feeling a little peckish, the bar food menu is one of the best on the street!
Uptown Palm Springs: The Chic New Street
Nestled just north of Downtown, Uptown Palm Springs offers a chic retreat where modern elegance meets vintage charm. This ever-growing neighborhood is a tapestry of art, design, and trendy shopping, perfect for those with a refined taste. It is called the ‘design district’ for a reason!
As you wander along North Palm Canyon Drive, explore the striking boutiques and art galleries. Peepa’s is a must-visit destination for fans of retro gifts and quirky items one may only find in Palm Springs, while Wil Styles is where you can find stylish Palm Springs playful apparel perfect for a desert soirée. For home design aficionados, Christopher Anthony Ltd. showcases stunning vintage furnishings and décor that will make your home sing with style. For the perfect gifts to bring home to family and friends, the is no better than Destination PSP, a beautiful shop of one of kind specialty items to celebrate Palm Springs, and the magical lifestyle of the valley.
Insider Tip: Keep an eye out for pop-up art events and exhibitions; Uptown is known for its creative spirit and artistic flair!
Sunny Dunes: Vintage Vibes and Art Galore
A hidden gem just south of the main drag, Sunny Dunes is a vintage lover’s paradise, bursting with character and nostalgia. Here, every shop tells a story, and you never know what delightful find awaits around the corner.
Before you start your vintage adventures, we highly recommend enjoying a bagel at one of the best bagel shops in all of Coachella Valley! With a large selection of all homemade bagels and toppings, you cannot go wrong with Townie’s Bagels, a local and tourist favorite!
Prepare to embark on a treasure hunt through quirky antique stores and vintage boutiques. From mid-century modern furniture at Swag Furniture to the 2 floors of unique mid-century antique finds at Antique Galleries of PS or the treasure trove across the street Sunny Dunes Antique Mall, this neighborhood is a nostalgic dream come true. Although not in the Sunny Dunes neighborhood, if you are a Mid-Century fan, don’t miss Palm Springs Vintage Market on the first Sunday of every month for a plethora of vintage treasures, from retro clothing to eclectic home goods at the Palm Springs Cultural Center parking lot.
If your treasure hunting is a little more risqué’ you should take a moment to check out Gear Leather, a playful adult only toy store for your more intimate moments. This adult shop is considered one of the best in the valley.
Insider Tip: Sunny Dunes is one of the most eclectic shopping spots in town, and all within a few block walking distance of each other. Park your car, grab a bagel and coffee at Townie, then start exploring! You will not be disappointed
A Shopping Sojourn Like No Other
With its eclectic mix of neighborhoods, Palm Springs offers a shopping experience that transcends the ordinary. Whether you’re hunting for unique antique souvenirs in Sunny Dunes vintage stores, indulging in high-end fashion and home goods in Uptown, or reveling in the vibrant LGBTQ atmosphere of shops and bars of Arenas Road, each area invites you to explore and delight in the treasures waiting to be discovered.
So, pack your bags and prepare for a whimsical shopping adventure—Palm Springs awaits with open arms and plenty of treasures just waiting for you to uncover
