With sun-kissed skies, swaying palm trees, and mountains you can almost reach out and touch, Greater Palm Springs provides an inspiring backdrop for brainstorming big ideas and connecting with colleagues. From hockey games to hot mineral spring spas, the variety of experiences and venues — combined with such a relaxing atmosphere — is what groups love most about meeting in this Southern California oasis.
What’s New
An ever-growing lineup of compelling resorts and attractions means there's always something new for groups. Acrisure Arena, an 11,000-seat sports and entertainment venue, opened its doors to hockey fans, music lovers, and meeting planners in late 2022 and not only hosts concerts and private events but is also home to the Seattle Kraken’s American Hockey League (AHL) franchise, the Coachella Valley Firebirds.
This spring, the Spa at Séc-he became the latest addition to the destination’s renowned health and wellness scene, featuring natural hot mineral spring waters estimated to be 12,000 years old and treasured by the Agua Caliente Band of Cahuilla Indians for their therapeutic mineral composition. Next door, the Agua Caliente Cultural Museum (expected to open this year) celebrates the history, culture, and modern achievements of the Agua Caliente people. Groups will be able to host private events at this new space in the heart of downtown Palm Springs.
Outside-the-Box Venues
The breathtaking scenery and year-round sunshine that make Greater Palm Springs a favorite for planners also make it the perfect setting for outdoor events and activities. The destination’s wide range of outdoor meeting space includes major resort properties such as La Quinta Resort & Club, set on 45 acres of citrus trees and lushly landscaped grounds at the base of the Santa Rosa Mountains, and smaller, private estates (think Frank Sinatra’s former home) with beautiful backyards practically made for poolside gatherings.
Groups can also break out in a whole new way at unique venues like the BMW Performance Center (where attendees mix meetings with high-speed laps around the racetrack), the Empire Polo Club (a sprawling venue that offers fun team-building activities like golf cart polo), and The Living Desert Zoo & Gardens (a wonderfully “wild” space with group animal encounters).
A Can’t-Miss Convention Center
Located within walking distance of incredible dining, shopping and entertainment in downtown Palm Springs, the Palm Springs Convention Center exceeds all expectations — starting with its lobby, where panoramic mountain views make meetings more inspiring. In addition to featuring 120,000 square feet of carpeted exhibit space, the convention center offers 21 breakout rooms, two spacious ballrooms, and a 20,000-square-foot event lawn.
Easy Air Access
Getting to all these incredible experiences in Greater Palm Springs has never been easier. Palm Springs International Airport (PSP) offers 30+ nonstop flights across 12 airlines and connections to more than 500 destinations worldwide. SmarterTravel.com even named PSP one of its 10 Most Stress-Free Airports in America; with open-air walkways and fewer crowds, the airport is far from frenzied, allowing attendees to arrive relaxed and inspired. Plus, a $36 million renovation in the works will enhance almost every aspect of the traveler experience, including new locally inspired food and retail vendors coming in 2023.
The Meeting Oasis Incentive
In addition to increased air access, new developments, and unique venues, planners can capitalize on the destination’s off-peak “chill” summer season with the Meeting Oasis incentive, which includes rebates for events scheduled in June, July, or August of 2023, 2024, or 2025.
Find out more at www.meetingsinpalmsprings.com