The Essential Palm Springs Neighborhood Guide

Palm Springs is defined by its neighborhoods. Each one has its own architectural DNA, street-level personality, and rhythm of daily life. Some are famous—where modernism was minted, where Hollywood hid out. Others fly under the radar but offer unbeatable access, privacy, or views. This guide breaks down the standouts—seven distinct areas where ACME House Company offers some of the city's most thoughtfully designed vacation rentals. Use it to pick your base, then make it your own.

Deepwell Estates

Deepwell Estates hits the sweet spot between residential quiet and Palm Springs accessibility. Originally developed in the 1950s, the neighborhood combines clean-lined mid-century ranch homes with updated contemporary remodels that still nod to the past. It’s the kind of place where you’ll spot a classic car in the driveway and hear nothing but rustling fronds and the occasional pool float shifting in the breeze.

You’re south of downtown but just close enough to walk or bike to coffee, restaurants, and boutiques. Elmer’s—a beloved brunch institution—is right nearby, and the South Lykken Trailhead is a five-minute drive. Deepwell isn’t flashy, but it is timeless, comfortable, and quietly stylish.

Stay here if: You want mid-century lines, a relaxed pace, and a strong sense of place—plus easy access to the best of South Palm Springs.

PS I Love You

Little Tuscany

Little Tuscany feels different the moment you start the climb. Built into the foothills above Palm Springs, the neighborhood trades the grid layout for winding roads that follow the terrain. It’s less manicured, more rugged—full of boulders, desert flora, and multi-million-dollar homes that lean into the drama. Think floor-to-ceiling glass, cantilevered decks, and panoramic views that sweep from city lights to windmills.

Architecturally, it’s a mix: sleek new builds, iconic mid-century pads, and old-world Mediterranean estates. This is where you go to unplug, unwind, and watch the sun dip behind the mountains with a drink in hand and no agenda.

Stay here if: You want seclusion, altitude, and standout views—plus a neighborhood that feels more like a private enclave than part of the city grid.

Little Tuscany Holiday House

Old Las Palmas

Old Las Palmas has always been where Palm Springs royalty lives—first the Hollywood elite, now the design-obsessed. With estate-sized lots, towering hedges, and winding streets lined with citrus trees, it’s one of the most storied parts of the city. The architecture is a mix of Spanish Colonial, Mediterranean Revival, and classic Palm Springs modernism, each home tucked behind walls, gates, or dense greenery for maximum privacy.

It’s also incredibly walkable. A few blocks east and you’re in the Uptown Design District, where art galleries, vintage shops, and some of the city’s best restaurants line Palm Canyon Drive. But at home, you’re tucked away—insulated from the bustle, with just birdsong and the rustle of palm leaves overhead.

Stay here if: You want elegance, history, and walking access to top dining and shopping—with a house that feels like its own private compound.

Lola Vista

Racquet Club Estates

Racquet Club Estates is the epicenter of classic Palm Springs design. Developed by the Alexander Construction Company in the late 1950s, this neighborhood helped define the look of mid-century modernism in the desert. Many of the original homes have been carefully restored; others reimagined with updated interiors that still honor the original design.

The neighborhood is relaxed, family-friendly, and not overly commercial. In the mornings, you’ll find locals walking dogs, cyclists cruising by, and visitors floating in kidney-shaped pools behind low-slung walls. It's a short drive north of downtown, with easy access to new cafes and boutiques.

Stay here if: You’re here for the architecture—or the lifestyle that comes with it. Racquet Club delivers a pure slice of Palm Springs, untouched by pretense.

Spencer Palms

Tahquitz River Estates

Full of character, history, and unexpected charm, Tahquitz River Estates is located just east of Deepwell and south of downtown. It’s one of the city’s oldest neighborhoods—dating back to the 1930s—but it’s far from outdated. Spanish-style homes with red-tile roofs sit beside mid-century ranches, early modernist builds, and updated bungalows with polished, lived-in style.

The defining feature is the greenbelt. Tahquitz Canyon River Parkway runs through the middle of the neighborhood, adding a welcome sense of openness and calm. You’re close to downtown without being in it, and the buzz of Palm Canyon Drive feels distant—until you want in.

Stay here if: You want a neighborhood with soul—somewhere you can walk, relax, and feel like a local, all while being minutes from restaurants, bars, and shopping.

The Riverside

Vista Las Palmas

The architectural crown jewel of Palm Springs? It wouldn’t be the toughest point to argue. Developed in the late 1950s, Vista Las Palmas features some of the most celebrated homes in the city—many designed by Palmer & Krisel, others custom-built for stars like Elvis Presley and Dean Martin. The streets are wide, the mountain views are sweeping, and the vibe is discreetly upscale.

Despite its pedigree, the neighborhood never feels showy. The homes are elegant but approachable, with butterfly roofs, shadow block walls, and artfully landscaped yards. The mountains sit almost absurdly close, rising up like a movie set behind every pool.

Stay here if: You want to stay somewhere iconic. Vista Las Palmas gives you front-row access to Palm Springs design history with the comfort of a private, lived-in escape.

Webb House

Warm Sands

Warm Sands is unpretentious and undeniably full of personality. As one of the oldest neighborhoods in Palm Springs, it has an inherent architectural range, from historic haciendas to newer builds with clean lines and open layouts. 

The real draw here is the location—walkable to downtown but removed enough to offer quiet mornings and starry nights. You can stroll to the Arenas District for bars and nightlife, or head to Townie Bagels for a low-key breakfast before a hike. 

Stay here if: You want the convenience of a central location, a diverse mix of homes, and a neighborhood with real soul, not just curb appeal.

Casa De Tierra

Fun Things to Do in Palm Springs

Here's a short list of classics, cult favorites, and a few local picks worth your time:

•  Ride the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway for cooler temps and sweeping views from 8,500 feet up.

•  Explore Indian Canyons—choose from lush palm oases or exposed desert trails.

•  Shop the Uptown Design District for vintage finds, art, and desert-cool décor.

•  Catch golden hour at Moorten Botanical Garden, a living desert museum since 1938.

•  Bike the Palm Springs Loop, a flat and scenic ride past homes, parks, and mountain views.

Popular Palm Springs Restaurants

Palm Springs has range—from retro steakhouses to minimalist cuisine. 

•  Bar Cecil – Elegant, moody, and always packed. Order the burger.

•  Workshop Kitchen + Bar – Brutalist architecture meets farm-to-table cooking.

•  Tac/Quila – Upscale Mexican with killer margaritas and a leafy courtyard.

•  Cheeky’s – THE brunch spot. Get there early. 

•  Sandfish – Sushi and whiskey in a sleek desert setting.

Plan Your Getaway with ACME House Company

Each of these neighborhoods offers a different version of Palm Springs. With ACME House Company, you’ll find a home that matches your taste, pace, and plans. 

Browse our wide selection of beautiful vacation rentals and book your escape today!

ABOUT ACME HOUSE COMPANY: ACME manages Luxury Vacation Rental Homes & Condos in Greater Palm Springs and the surrounding desert cities, catering to those looking to travel to the world-renowned destination for the season, week-long stays and extended weekends. Fabulous pool homes for when you and your peeps want some together time. Visit ACME’s Website to explore more Palm Springs Vacation Rental Homes.

Published by Matthew Bruce
Friday, May 9, 2025