Parker Palm Springs
Palm Springs, CA 92264
Phone: (760) 770-5000
- Cross Street:
- South Cherokee Way
- Hours:
- Daily 24 hours
Editorial Review for Parker Palm Springs – by Mar Yvette
The Scene
Quirky, irreverant and utterly luxurious, this historic property may look like Austin Powers' wardrobe exploded all over it, but the real man behind its unmatched--and mismatched--look is acclaimed design guru Jonathan Adler. A hodgepodge of decades--from medieval knights in shining armor to Brady Bunch-era Peruvian wall hangings--the aesthetic is one of sheer exuberance. Or, as employees of "The Estate" like to say, "happy chic."
The Details
Aimed at being a "five-star without the attitude," the 131-room, 12-villa resort's main building was originally built in 1959 as California's first Holiday Inn. Today, the 13-acre property feels less like a hotel and more like your eccentric, globe-trotting aunt's home. Employees do not wear name badges (because the service should be so good, so personal, you'll remember their names) and the villas are named after the owner's grandchildren. The green marble-and-mirror lined Mini Bar is where bartender Kevin will serve you a stiff one with his own vodka infusions using local flowers and herbs, while Norma's is the on-site diner for breakfast and lunch. For dinner, guests indulge in a decadent meal at Mister Parker's, the property's urbane den of fine dining.
Hits: Head concierge John makes you feel like a rock star, even if you're not. The landscaped gardens are impeccable, the feathertop beds are divine, and the saline pools don't leave you with the nasty smell of chlorine.
Misses: The small TVs in the rooms are still stuck in the 80s; also, the Vegas-style "Drugs" sign above the library's fireplace can be off-putting--only upon asking will guests learn that the flippantly displayed sign is from an old pharmacy in England.
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Insider Tips
The ExtrasAll rooms feature deluxe toiletries like Penhaligon's shampoo and conditioner, and Peter Thomas Roth sunscreen and soap. Bonus: bottles of Evian water are provided upon arrival and whenever retrieving/dropping off your car for valet.
Know Before You GoThe 20,000-square-foot spa offers just about every bodily pleasure under the sun, including separate clothing-optional indoor saltwater pool areas for men and women.
Fun FactThe sleek 24-hour gym features a floor made completely of recycled tires.
User Reviews for Parker Palm Springs
02/15/2008 Posted by lasnipster
My boyfriend and I went to the Parker a few weeks ago during the week, where they have a really great room rate. We were both taken by the chic retro style of Johnathan Adlers vision of fun easy going life style that you walk into and forget all your worries. The Hotels sense of humor along with Mr. Adler is awesome and quirky. We love the amazing gounds and the sweet breakfast menu. The French Toast I had was like having a birthday cake for my 10th birthday. The service is excellent for food and guest services. The only thing I could see to improve is the pool side menu. The Items are priced right for the type of hotel they are, but the food lacked flavor and creativity. They do allow dogs under 20 lbs for a $150.00 daily rate which is a little outrages, but maybe a certain comedian had something to do with that policy after the fact. LOL Over all The Parker is a great place to escape from any concrete jungle.
Pros: Atmosphere and service
Cons: Pool side menu
02/10/2008 Posted by marpop
I have been coming to the Parker ever since it first opened and I have never been disappointed. I have friends who have complained about service or price (yes, it can be a pretty deep-pocket experience, but if you come in the summer you can get rooms for as low as $160), but I have never personally had a bad moment at this place. From the moment you arrive on the property, everything is catered to your needs and making sure you're comfortable. The grounds alone are worth it --there's practically every kind of plant and tree on the premises, a croquet lawn, a fabulous spa, hammocks, a fire pit with butterfly chairs, grapefruit & orange trees that you're free to pick fruit from & have freshly squeezed for you if you like ... the list goes on. The beds are super comfortable and so are the sheepskin rugs, but I do admit that they really need to upgrade their TV's -- you'd expect from such a cool hi-end spot that the TV's would be flat screens. As for toiletries, they used to offer Hermes soap in every room, but the last couple of times I've been those seem to be curiously absent. Even so, the saltwater pools are awesome and Mister Parkers is fantastic. Normas is incredible as well, altho sometimes it's a little hit-and-miss w/the fancy omelettes, but the oj is perfect! I mean.. even the glasses and dishware is cool. No detail has been spared at this place and that's why I love it so. If you're big into design, you'll love this place. The location is off the main area of downtown, but you'll almost not want to ever leave .. and w/the restaurants & spa onsite, there's really no reason.
Pros: Beds, saltwater pools, all the rosemary bushes, decor, designer toiletries
Cons: old TVs in the room; it's pricey
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