Inside an ICONIC Palm Springs Escape: Why Kimpton Rowan is the Ultimate Downtown Oasis

Merely steps away from shopping, galleries, restaurants and bars, Kimpton Rowan is the easy choice if you’re looking to explore downtown Palm Springs in all its glory. 

Rising seven stories, Kimpton Rowan Palm Springs stands as an architectural landmark, featuring 153 guest rooms and suites with mountain views or private balconies, the city’s only rooftop pool, the exclusive downtown hotel pickleball courts, Michelin-worthy dining, and unrivaled views of the San Jacinto Mountains and Coachella Valley desert landscape.

Photo by Laure Joliet.

The hotel’s interior is cool and contemporary, with large windows allowing light to fill the space, modern and sleek furniture that elevates the space and sets the tone for a luxurious stay, and a neutral color palette embracing the unique desert terrain. 

I brought along a close girlfriend of mine for a light-hearted girls’ weekend. Upon arrival, we checked into our room and made our way to the rooftop’s High Bar for an arrival cocktail. The views were breathtaking, with the mountain seeming close enough to touch. We shared the poke nachos and soaked in our surroundings.

Photo by Laure Joliet.

After a dinner at the local Italian restaurant down the street from our hotel, we opted for rest and relaxation to recover from the drive.

The next morning, we took a stroll past the local shops for a coffee and a light breakfast. On our way back to the hotel, we stopped into the charming antique store, Distinctive Discoveries; it was filled with old-world treasures and classic Palm Springs-era art, books and decor. My friend purchased a few books for her collection. 

We returned to our room and changed into our swimsuits for some much-needed pool time. The rooftop stayed cool with their mist systems. We were able to lie out for hours–frequently applying SPF, of course. 

Photo by Laure Joliet.

With a refreshing Greyhound in hand, the sun shining and great company, a great day with tons of memories was unfolding. 

Before getting ready for our dinner at 4Saints, a fine-dining restaurant with sweeping views of the mountains and equally impressive cuisine, we took the elevator down to the lobby for the hotel’s social hour. Located adjacent to the check-in desk is complimentary wine and beer for an hour, giving guests the opportunity to gather over a crisp beer or full-bodied wine. 

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Photo by Laure Joliet.

When we arrived at 4Saints, the room buzzed with subtle conversation. Floor-to-ceiling windows invited breathtaking views, and the gorgeous glow of golden hour gave the space an ethereal feel. We couldn’t help but take advantage of the elevated setting with pictures. After our short iPhone photoshoot, our server took our drink order. We opted for the classic dirty martini, which was made to perfection. After coming back around, we asked to do the Chef’s Tasting Menu. The first course was a caviar cone with Ossetra, toasted Sicilian pistachio, creme fraiche and chives. It was refreshing and flavorful. You can never go wrong with caviar. 

Our next course was equally as refreshing with bold bursts of flavor. The yellowfin tuna with sesame Ponzu gave the savory-sweet combination, while the avocado-wasabi ignited our taste buds with a subtle spice. If we had the option, we would’ve asked for seconds. 

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Photo courtesy of Kimpton Rowan Palm Springs.

For our entree, I opted for the prime Ribeye tenderloin, while my friend ordered the scallops; both were delicious. With dessert next, we ordered an espresso martini to pair with our pear sticky toffee pudding. It was just the sweet ending we needed for such an incredible dinner. 

The next morning, we checked out and hit the road. On my drive, I reflected on our time at the Kimpton Rowan. With friendly, concierge service, delicious culinary fare, a luxurious setting in the heart of the action, and a best friend to enjoy it all with, I can confidently say this trip was nothing short of ICONIC.