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The Perfect Thursday Date Night

Planning a romantic getaway to Descanso? Make sure to book your stay over a Thursday if you want to experience the perfect Palm Springs date night. According to Descanso’s GM Kent Taylor, “Thursday is the new Friday when it comes to date night in Palm Springs.” The art museum is open late, a weekly street fair brings a casual party atmosphere to downtown, and most of the action is within walking distance from Descanso. Here’s our guide to creating an unforgettable date night in Palm Springs.

To get your evening started, Kent suggests strolling downtown and stopping for libations at either Tailor Shop or Truss & Twine. Both are known for their sexy ambiance, hipster vibes, and delicious craft cocktails and mocktails. To guarantee a table on busy Thursdays, reservations are suggested (especially for Tailor Shop). If you’re in the mood for something more playful, Bootlegger Tiki serves up classic tiki drinks and original creations in a kitschy, intimate space that originally housed the infamous Don The Beachcomber. Order a punch bowl and ask for two straws!

Next, head to the Palm Springs Art Museum. On Thursday nights, the museum stays open late and admission is free from 5 PM-8 PM. The permanent collection includes significant works by many modern greats including Calder, Motherwell, and Warhol, and there’s always a new special exhibition to check out. Take a walk through the airy galleries and soak up all the arty goodness together. Who knew a museum could be romantic?!

Once you’re feeling suitably inspired, head back outside and follow the crowds to Palm Springs’ weekly street fair, VillageFest. Every Thursday night a big stretch of Palm Canyon Drive closes to car traffic and transforms into a festive night market featuring California artisans, all sorts of musical performances, and tasty street food. With nearly 200 vendors, VillageFest is a fun place to shop for handmade jewelry, original artwork, and one-of-a-kind desert mementos. VillageFest runs 6 PM-10 PM October through May, 7 PM-10 PM June through September.

When it’s time for dinner, hit up one of the VillageFest food carts and picnic under the Marilyn statue, or stop in at one of the buzzy downtown restaurants. We’re always happy to help with a recommendation or peruse our Staff Picks page for a carefully curated list of dining favorites.

Of course, no date night is complete without a nightcap … preferably someplace dark and sexy. Kent suggests you try The Evening Citizen, a new hidden speakeasy discreetly located in the back alley behind the bars on Arenas. Then head back home to Descanso for a little night swimming. The perfect ending for the perfect date night.