STAYS WE RECOMMEND: THE RIVIERA IN PALM SPRINGS, CA

 

The Riviera Hotel Palm Springs: Glamour, Legacy & Modern Escape

Nestled against the backdrop of the San Jacinto Mountains, the Riviera Hotel in Palm Springs captures the spirit of midcentury design, Hollywood-era glamour, and contemporary resort luxury. Whether you're a history buff, design lover, or traveler seeking a relaxing desert escape, the Riviera is a compelling destination. This blog dives into what makes the Riviera stand out—and how you can make the most of a stay there.

A Storied Past: From Star-Studded Beginnings to Modern Revival

• Origins & design
  The Riviera opened in late 1959, founded by Irwin Schuman (originally Schulman) and his brother. Wikipedia+2Wallpaper*+2 Its name echoed the famous Riviera in Las Vegas, but the Palm Springs iteration developed its own identity. Wikipedia+1 Architecturally, it was groundbreaking: the hotel was designed in a spoke-wheel (radial) layout, with wings radiating from a central core—a bold modernist choice for its time. desertareahomefinder.com+2Wallpaper*+2

• Golden era & celebrity appeal
  Through the 1960s, the Riviera was a magnet for Hollywood names and cultural icons. Frank Sinatra, Dean Martin, Elvis Presley, Marilyn Monroe, and others have all graced its halls. Black Tomato+5oyster.com+5Wikipedia+5 The hotel even appeared (or was referenced) in films like Palm Springs Weekend (1963). Wallpaper*+2Wikipedia+2

• Transitions & revival
  Over time, the Riviera underwent several ownership changes, brand alignments (including Holiday Inn, Hilton, Radisson), and financial challenges. Wikipedia+2desertareahomefinder.com+2 In the 2000s, a major renovation restored much of its midcentury charm while modernizing guest experience. IHG+4The Tiki Chick+4Hospitality Design+4 Most recently, there have been signals that the resort—formerly operating under Margaritaville branding—will revert to its historic Riviera name, marking a return to its iconic roots. KGay Desert Guide Palm Springs+1

Where Style Meets Comfort: Rooms & Accommodations

The Riviera offers a robust lineup of guest rooms and suites that blend retro flair with modern amenities:

• Room types & layout
  The resort has about 398 rooms, including standard rooms, premium studios, and suites. Cvent+3Riviera Resort & Spa Palm Springs+3IHG+3 Some rooms are arranged in the radial “spoke” wings, giving many rooms distinct views or orientation. desertareahomefinder.com+1

• Amenities & in-room features
  Rooms feature modern comforts—free WiFi, flat-screen TVs, in-room amenities typical of full-service resorts. IHG+3Tripadvisor+3IHG+3 Many rooms are accessible, and there are connecting room options. IHG

• Design touches
  In the redesigns, historical elements like color palettes (e.g. the midcentury orange hue linked to Sinatra) and period decor are woven into contemporary finishes. Black Tomato+3Hospitality Design+3Locale Magazine+3

Amenities & Experiences That Elevate the Stay      BOOK RIVIERA

• Pools & outdoor lounging
  The Riviera features two resort pools, complete with poolside bars, cabanas, day beds, and fire pits. IHG+5Riviera Resort & Spa Palm Springs+5Cvent+5 Outdoor fire pits and lounging areas add to the resort vibe. Cvent+2Cvent+2

• Santé Spa & wellness
  The Santé Spa is one of the largest resort spas in Palm Springs, with 18 treatment rooms, steam rooms, a waterfall pool, jacuzzis, lockers, and more. Riviera Resort & Spa Palm Springs+3Cvent+3Riviera Resort & Spa Palm Springs+3 Salon services are available, though spa amenity usage is separate. Riviera Resort & Spa Palm Springs

• Dining & lounges
  The resort hosts multiple dining outlets (five according to the resort’s site) plus bars and casual offerings. Riviera Resort & Spa Palm Springs When part of IHG, the property lists 2 on-site restaurants. IHG+2IHG+2

• Meeting, event & wedding venues
  With nearly 19,000 sq ft of ballroom and conference space (e.g. the Crosby Ballroom, Desert Conference Center, Garden venues), the Riviera is well-suited for corporate retreats, weddings, and large gatherings. Cvent+2Cvent+2 The Taylor Garden, speakeasy spaces, and open lawns add versatility. Cvent

• Recreational & guest extras
  Guests can take advantage of complimentary bike rentals, a fitness center, yoga classes, outdoor games (croquet, giant Jenga, etc.), and scenic resort grounds. Riviera Resort & Spa Palm Springs+4ALHI+4IHG+4

Location & What’s Nearby

The Riviera is located just minutes from downtown Palm Springs, making it easy to access the city’s shops, dining, galleries, and attractions. Riviera Resort & Spa Palm Springs+2Cvent+2

Major nearby attractions include:

• Palm Springs International Airport (a short drive)

• The Palm Springs Art Museum

• Palm Springs Aerial Tramway

• Golf courses, hiking, and desert landscapes

• Local midcentury architecture tours

Its position offers a balance of tranquil resort ambiance and proximity to vibrant city life.

Tips for an Unforgettable Riviera Stay

1. Ask for a room in one of the “spoke” wings for unique views and architectural interest.

2. Book spa treatments in advance, especially on weekends or during peak season.

3. Explore off-peak times (fall, spring) to enjoy poolside lounging without the crowds.

4. Plan an event or dinner at the resort — the hotel’s history and setting make it a memorable backdrop.

5. Bring your camera — the midcentury motifs, palm-framed views, and vintage touches make for excellent photo ops.

Why the Riviera Still Matters

The Riviera Hotel in Palm Springs is more than just a place to sleep — it’s a living legacy. It embodies the midcentury spirit that helped define Palm Springs as a desert playground for design, stars, and style. Yet, it has not remained static: through careful renovation and thoughtful additions, it's evolved to meet modern expectations without erasing its character.

Whether you’re drawn by its storied past, its architectural boldness, or the comfort of a full-service resort, the Riviera remains a crown jewel in Palm Springs hospitality. If you visit, you're not just booking a room — you’re stepping into a chapter of Californian glamour.

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