Thompson Palm Springs: New Luxury Hotel in Coachella Valley

by Brad Lightall | June 3, 2025 | 0 Comments

Thompson Palm Springs officially opened its doors in October of 2024, extending a bright new chapter in the Coachella Valley’s evolving hospitality scene. I remember hearing rumors about this spot years before its unveiling—so it felt almost surreal to finally step inside and see how the property brought together retro allure and contemporary comforts in one seamless experience.

A Long-Awaited Debut

1. A Long-Awaited Debut

After nearly a decade of delays, Thompson Palm Springs has finally emerged under Hyatt’s Thompson brand. Originally slated to debut as an Andaz in 2016, this low-rise resort navigated local development hurdles and design overhauls before welcoming guests in late 2024. Today, it stands as a testament to Palm Springs’ never-ending reinvention.

In my own travels across Southern California, I’ve noticed how properties like Thompson Palm Springs benefit from renewed travel interest in the desert region. A recent tourism survey suggests that visitor numbers have rebounded beyond pre-2020 figures, emphasizing the Coachella Valley’s enduring allure. That’s one reason many of us have had our eyes on this project for so long—it represents the promise of fresh meets familiar.

The hotel’s successful debut also speaks to the resilience of Palm Springs itself, a city that has weathered global travel shifts while retaining its timeless appeal. From the day it finally opened, Thompson Palm Springs seemed ready to wow with an elevated approach to design, wellness, and hospitality—a grand opening I, for one, had been eager to see.

Midcentury-Chic Design

2. Midcentury-Chic Design

The property’s 168 bungalow-style rooms and 18 suites capture the playful spirit of Palm Springs’ golden era, all while leaning into a sleek, minimalist design language. When I first walked through a guestroom, I noticed crisp lines and subtle desert hues that paid homage to the desert landscapes just outside. It felt like a curated gallery, showcasing midcentury textures alongside modern conveniences.

True to the city’s DNA, many rooms feature private patios or balconies that blend seamlessly with the vibrant local scene. According to industry data, travelers increasingly prefer accommodations with outdoor extensions—an especially savvy choice in a place known for its 350 days of sunshine a year. Stepping onto a sun-drenched balcony here reminded me why Palm Springs has drawn everyone from Old Hollywood icons to weekend adventure-seekers.

Beyond the rooms themselves, the property anchors an entire downtown block, making it supremely walkable to top-notch dining, boutique shopping, and cultural hotspots. I’ve always found it remarkable how midcentury architecture can amplify a destination’s character, and Thompson Palm Springs elevates this ethos with a refreshing, art-centric twist.

Luxe Rooftop & Leisure Spaces

3. Luxe Rooftop & Leisure Spaces

The centerpiece for many guests is the rooftop pool, offering panoramic desert views that stretch out toward the nearby mountains. I had the chance to relax in one of the reservation-only cabanas, and it felt like an exclusive oasis perched above the city’s bustle. A jacuzzi also punctuates the scene, making it easy to enjoy a tranquil break under the desert sky.

Alongside this main attraction, the property introduces an adults-only tower called Upper Stories, complete with dedicated lounges and private gathering spaces. During my stay, I found it especially appealing for couples or solo travelers seeking a quiet retreat. A few fellow guests I chatted with appreciated the chance to mingle in a more sophisticated atmosphere, removed from the more open-access areas of the resort.

If you’re visiting for the dining alone, Thompson Palm Springs delivers. Lola Rose Grand Mezze delivers Mediterranean-inspired cuisine brimming with fresh produce and aromatic spices—I sampled a shareable mezze platter that paired perfectly with the region’s crisp evening air. Meanwhile, Bar Issi extends the resort’s emphasis on design-forward spaces, blending open-air relaxation with imaginative cocktails that had me coming back for seconds.

World of Hyatt Advantages

4.World of HyattAdvantages

Thompson Palm Springs landed in Category 5 of the World of Hyatt program, translating to flexible redemption rates that can be particularly appealing for points-savvy travelers. I’ve observed that nightly cash rates often hover around $450, but with well-timed promotions or off-peak booking, the property can become more accessible. According to the official Hyatt redemption chart, you can expect to spend around 20,000 points per night at standard levels—though it may fluctuate.

Another perk is Hyatt Privé, which brings the potential for room upgrades, complimentary breakfast, and resort credit. On one recent stay, I was automatically upgraded to a room with a spacious private patio, and that single benefit gave my experience a dramatic boost. It’s reminders like this that underscore how loyalty programs can genuinely elevate a trip, turning an otherwise ordinary stay into a memorable one—especially valuable for frequent flyers looking for some well-earned pampering.

Beyond the standard benefits, the hotel’s staff seems well-versed in recognizing elite tiers with small gestures—a personal welcome from the general manager, or a local treat waiting upon arrival. Every interaction left me feeling like the front desk team truly grasped that loyalty is a two-way street, and that attention to detail stands out in a crowded market.

A New Must-Visit for Frequent Flyers

5. A New Must-Visit for Frequent Flyers

Palm Springs has long been a staple escape for adventurous weekenders, but Thompson Palm Springs offers a refined new reason to plan that flight into PSP Airport. Whether you’re unwinding by the pool or exploring downtown’s midcentury marvels, you’ll find that the resort strikes a fine balance: relaxed yet lively, heritage-driven yet unmistakably contemporary.

Plenty of frequent flyers I’ve chatted with highlight the necessity of a resort that can handle both business and leisure seamlessly. I’ve certainly seen it fit the bill—imagine attending a quick conference call in the morning and then drifting into the desert sunshine by afternoon. To me, that’s the hallmark of an excellent destination: the freedom to be productive while also indulging in the region’s art galleries, casino fun, or nature trails in the nearby mountains.

Moreover, the steady stream of new developments in downtown Palm Springs continually expands your activity menu. If you enjoy discovering local culture, you’ll appreciate how Thompson Palm Springs places you front and center for exploring iconic midcentury neighborhoods or the city’s lively calendar of events, like Modernism Week.

Final Thoughts

All things considered, Thompson Palm Springs is more than just another upscale hotel in the desert. It’s a living homage to the city’s storied past interwoven with the forward-thinking spirit that brought about its renaissance. I’ve walked its corridors, lounged by its pool, and chatted with fellow travelers—each experience reinforced the idea that this resort has intelligence and heart beneath its modern facade.

I also love how Thompson Palm Springs helps demonstrate the resilience of Palm Springs itself, a locale that has mastered the art of welcoming wide-ranging travelers while preserving its own distinctive flair. From its architectural nods to midcentury heritage to its robust loyalty perks, this Category 5 property exemplifies what I believe many of us seek: something both comfortably familiar and refreshingly innovative.

Brad Lightall’s Take

If there’s one thing I’ve gathered from exploring this Thompson gem, it’s that Palm Springs still thrives on that profound intersection of past and future. The midcentury design resonates with historical roots, but the service and overall vibe sing a fresh, contemporary tune. When I see a place like this seamlessly uniting two eras, it reaffirms my belief in travel’s capacity to enrich both tradition and innovation.

For me, Thompson Palm Springs captures the essence of desert chic—casual yet undeniably refined—a blend that continues to draw me back. Every time I step inside, I feel both at home and somewhere entirely new, which is pure magic.

Keep fueling your travel mania with more insights at BoardingArea.

Also on BoardingArea
Economy Class & Beyond
United Airlines partners with Spotify for content
United Airlines and Spotify today announced a first-of-its-kind collaboration that delivers an even more entertaining travel experience in the sky, with 450+ hours of content now available for free on the airline’s seatback screens. The move marks the first time Spotify has offered audiobooks and video podcasts onboard an airline, allowing...
The Bulkhead Seat
St. Regis Bal Harbour Employee Allegedly Entered Guest Room and Watched Female Guest Shower
I love the St. Regis Bal Harbour Resort. I have stayed there many times… The post St. Regis Bal Harbour Employee Allegedly Entered Guest Room and Watched Female Guest Shower appeared first on The Bulkhead Seat.
You Are Travel
Japan Airlines Adds Second Daily Boeing 777 Flight: To and From Narita (NRT)
Tl;dr – JAl supplements its existing Chicago service (ORD-HND) with another daily flight between Chicago and Tokyo’s Narita…
One Mile at a Time
St. Regis Bal Harbour Faces $7 Million Lawsuit Over Creepy Shower Incident
The St. Regis Bal Harbour is facing a huge lawsuit after a guest was reportedly walked in on while showering, in a way that simply can’t be described as accidental. It’s bad enough that the incident happened, but it’s even worse to see how the hotel reportedly responded, and I...
ATX Jetsetter
Hilton Unveils New McLaren Racing Themed Suite in London
Hilton Hotels and McLaren Racing are celebrating 20 years of partnership with a Stay Like McLaren Racing suite for the Formula 1 British Grand Prix at Silverstone. The post Hilton Unveils New McLaren Racing Themed Suite in London appeared first on ATX Jetsetter.
One Mile at a Time
I Took Amtrak Across Florida, And It Was An Experience
Typically my transportation focus here at OMAAT is on planes, but I also like to share other interesting experiences. Recently I traveled across Florida on Amtrak, and it was… well, an experience.
View from the Wing
St. Regis Employee Watched Her Shower For 3 Minutes. Marriott Called It A ‘Mistake’—And Offered Her Wine
A guest is suing the St. Regis Bal Harbour in Miami claiming an employee used his master key to access her room while she was naked in the shower — and stood there, watching, for several minutes. Continue reading St. Regis Employee Watched Her Shower For 3 Minutes. Marriott Called It...
The Gate with Brian Cohen
Earn Double Points on Summer Vacation Rentals 2025 With Homes & Villas by Marriott Bonvoy
You can earn double points on summer vacation rentals 2025 at Homes & Villas by Marriott Bonvoy with every stay of a minimum of four consecutive nights at participating properties worldwide through Tuesday, September 30, 2025 — you must check out on that date — which means that you will...
Paddle Your Own Kanoo
He Slipped On An Ice Cube During a Southwest Flight From New York – He’s Now Blaming the Flight Attendants
When a passenger slipped on a stray ice cube that had fallen onto the carpet of a Southwest Airlines plane flying from LaGuardia to St. Louis last month, it seemed like nothing more than a simple accident. Now, the man is suing Southwest Airlines for hundreds of thousands of dollars....
Frequent Miler
Best Credit Card Offers for June 2025
Which rewards credit card is right for you? Find the best publicly available credit card offers all on this one page. We'll show you the best credit cards for spend, frequent flyer miles, hotel points, cash back, and more. The post Best Credit Card Offers for June 2025 appeared first on...
Live and Let’s Fly
Delicious Superfood On British Airways
I tried the “Pollen + Grace mezze houmous and rainbow veg grain bowl” on British Airways and thought it was fabulous…the sort of superfood that I go out of my way to eat at home…which is rare for an airline meal. Pollen + Grace Mezze Houmous and Rainbow Veg Grain...
One Mile at a Time
Buy Air France-KLM Flying Blue Miles With 80% Bonus (1.69 Cents Per Point)
Strategically buying miles & points for luxury travel can be a great deal. We’ve just seen the Air France-KLM Flying Blue program launch a new promotion on purchased miles. While this offer isn’t quite as good as some of the past deals we’ve seen from the program, it still has...
TravelUpdate
Alaska Airlines Announces First Transatlantic Route to Rome
Alaska Airlines announces first transatlantic route, introducing nonstop service between Seattle and Rome beginning in May 2026. This…
Dots, Lines, & Destinations
DLD 537: The Power of Partners
New partnerships, new productions, new pricing, new pains, and lots more….
The Points of Life
iPad Mini: Blog Efficiency Solved?
I have been looking for a great combo for on-the-go blogging for quite some time. The post iPad Mini: Blog Efficiency Solved? appeared first on The Points Of Life.
TravelUpdate
The Amex Platinum Card: worth the $695 annual fee in 2025?
The Amex Platinum Card charges a massive annual fee of $695. Is is still worth keeping in your wallet in 2025? Let's have an analytical look.
The Bulkhead Seat
United Adds Spotify Music, Podcasts, and Audiobooks Across 130,000+ Seatback Screens
United Airlines and Spotify announced today that the streaming giant will soon offer music,… The post United Adds Spotify Music, Podcasts, and Audiobooks Across 130,000+ Seatback Screens appeared first on The Bulkhead Seat.
You Are Travel
Turn Chase Ultimate Rewards Into Aeroplan Points with a 20% Bonus
💡 tl;dr—Chase is back with another transfer bonus, this time with Air Canada. You’ll receive a 20% bonus…
Wingtips
Act Fast: Hilton Honors Debit Cards Just Got Seriously Rewarding
Big news from the world of plastic (well, technically metal if you’ve gone all-in with Plus): Hilton Honors… The post Act Fast: Hilton Honors Debit Cards Just Got Seriously Rewarding appeared first on Wingtips.
Live and Let’s Fly
United Airlines + Spotify: A Mile-High Streaming Upgrade With Music, Podcasts, And Audiobooks
United Airlines and Spotify are teaming up to offer hundreds of hours of content on the seatback screen of hundreds of United aircraft. Spotify Content Now Streaming On United Airlines Seatbacks United has announced a unique collaboration with Spotify that brings hundreds of hours of curated content straight to your...
One Mile at a Time
Should You Complain About Bad Service On A Flight, Or Only After The Fact?
OMAAT reader Paul asked me an interesting question, which I figure could be worth addressing here. Long story short, he was in business class on an overnight transatlantic American flight, in the bulkhead row. After the meal service, the crew continued to be loud in the galley, while most passengers...
View from the Wing
Overhead-Bin Punch-Out: Delta Passenger Decks Flight Attendant, Now Faces Federal Felony [Roundup]
A roundup of the most important stories of the day. I keep you up to date on the most interesting writings I find on other sites – the latest news and tips. Continue reading Overhead-Bin Punch-Out: Delta Passenger Decks Flight Attendant, Now Faces Federal Felony [Roundup]...
An unknown error occurred.
BoardingArea
Ultimate Disney Cruise Packing Guide For Travel Pros
I've crisscrossed countless runways in my time and discovered that a Disney Cruise is one of the most memorable ways to blend seafaring enchantment with well-honed travel logistics. There's a unique energy in the air when you're watching the sun dip into the ocean, surrounded by Disney characters, lively entertainment,...
Miles For Family
Travel Companions: The More the Merrier, or the Fewer the Better?
Note: I’m currently traveling in Asia and will have limited access to the internet. Replies to comments and emails will be delayed. When it comes to travel, do you prefer to keep your group small? Or, do you like to organize trips with larger groups of friends, neighbors and extended...

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Categories

Our Bloggers