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
View from the Wing
Leaked: Alaska Airlines ‘Atmos Rewards’ Loyalty Program Name—And The $50 Million Gamble That Could Backfire
Alaska Airlines is about to launch its new loyalty program, Atmos Rewards, combining Alaska Airlines Mileage Plan and Hawaiian Airlines HawaiianMiles. The name was leaked but we know nothing else about the branding. Here's how the name could play out. Continue reading Leaked: Alaska Airlines ‘Atmos Rewards’ Loyalty Program...
Points With a Crew
5 reasons to sign up for the Chase Ink Business Unlimited® Credit Card
The Chase Ink Business Unlimited card has one of the highest signup bonuses ever for a card that comes with no annual fee. You can easily get hundreds ...
Bald Thoughts
Flying Blue Promo Awards for August 2025: Europe For 18,750 Miles
Learn about the latest Flying Blue promo awards, including destinations, mileage requirements, and how to earn and redeem miles. The post Flying Blue Promo Awards for August 2025: Europe For 18,750 Miles appeared first on BaldThoughts.
Your Mileage May Vary
Airport Tells Female Lawyer to Change Her Sexual Harassment Ad or They Won’t Show It
Megan Thomas’ Syracuse-based law firm focuses on women who are being sexually harassed. And what better place to advertise to clients than the local airport? After all, Syracuse Hancock International…
View from the Wing
“Wasn’t Me” TSA Finds Stolen Gun In Love & Hip Hop’s Erica Banks’ Louis Vuitton Bag At Atlanta Airport
Atlanta rapper Erica Banks of Love & Hip Hop: Atlanta fame was caught with a handgun going through a TSA security checkpoint at the Atlanta airport on Wednesday night. Continue reading “Wasn’t Me” TSA Finds Stolen Gun In Love & Hip Hop’s Erica Banks’ Louis Vuitton Bag At Atlanta Airport...
Frequent Miler
(eBay back) Capital One Shopping pulls even more gift card redemption options
Update 8/8/25: It looks like there are a bunch of gift card redemptions back online, the most notable being eBay. If you have a stash of Capital One Shopping Rewards to redeem, it would be worth taking a look at what’s on offer ASAP. ~~~ Update 5/28/25: Capital One Shopping has...
Live and Let’s Fly
The Best Steakhouse In Prague
I enjoyed a delicious dinner at Čestr, a Prague steakhouse that ofers delectable cuts of meat and excellent service. Best Steakhouse In Prague – Čestr My brother recommended this place…he claimed it was like a fine steakhouse in LA, but half the price. While Prague has many culinary dishes more...
Miles To Memories
United Cardholders Seeing Expanded Business Saver Award Availability
If you have a Chase United MileagePlus card then you suddenly have an extra benefit. All United cardholders are currently seeing increased business saver award availability. The post United Cardholders Seeing Expanded Business Saver Award Availability appeared first on Miles to Memories.
The Gate with Brian Cohen
Graffiti: Historic, Art, or Vandalism?
While on the Historic Tour at Mammoth Cave National Park in Kentucky, the park ranger who was guiding the group pointed to some graffiti in one area of the cave — such as what you see on the limestone cave ceiling in the featured photograph at the top of this...
View from the Wing
“They Forgot About You” Two Blind Women Get Their Own Private Southwest Plane After Being Left Behind For Five Hours
When the flight finally boarded, a gate agent reportedly told them “you’re the only two people on this flight because they forgot about you.” Continue reading “They Forgot About You” Two Blind Women Get Their Own Private Southwest Plane After Being Left Behind For Five Hours...
One Mile at a Time
Chase Sapphire Reserve Card 100K Points + $500 Credit Offer Ends Soon
Several weeks ago, we saw the popular Chase Sapphire Reserve Card undergo a full refresh. The card has a higher annual fee than before, but also has a lot more perks. Chase has been celebrating the card’s relaunch with a best-ever welcome offer, making it an ideal time to apply.
Your Mileage May Vary
The Future of the Costco Anywhere Card
Every so often, a flurry of speculation sweeps through the points-and-miles world. The latest? That the Costco Anywhere Visa® Card by Citi is headed for big changes—maybe even a new…
View from the Wing
Biggest Bonus Ever: Chase Says Sapphire Reserve’s Offer Worth $5,000 Ends Soon
The relaunched Chase Sapphire Reserve has an incredible offer that Chase now says is ending soon. Continue reading Biggest Bonus Ever: Chase Says Sapphire Reserve’s Offer Worth $5,000 Ends Soon...
The Bulkhead Seat
How Much Does Hyatt Actually Reimburse a Hotel When You Redeem a Free Night Certificate?
I had a recent stay at a Hyatt House property. I will not name… The post How Much Does Hyatt Actually Reimburse a Hotel When You Redeem a Free Night Certificate? appeared first on The Bulkhead Seat.
Frequent Miler
Caesars Chase Offer: 15% back, up to $50 (stack with Amex and Citi Offers)
There is a new Chase Offer for Caesars properties in Las Vegas, Atlantic City, Reno, and Lake Tahoe, which can save 15% on up to $333 of total spend (or a maximum back of $50). Caesars also has an Amex Offer for 20% off either $200 or $400 and a...
The Bulkhead Seat
Emirates is the Latest Airline to Ban Using Power Banks on Its Aircraft
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and other agencies have banned power banks from checked… The post Emirates is the Latest Airline to Ban Using Power Banks on Its Aircraft appeared first on The Bulkhead Seat.
One Mile at a Time
UK261: United Kingdom Flight Delay Compensation Explained
I’ve written extensively about the European Union’s generous laws (known as EC261) when it comes to cash compensation for delayed and canceled flights. In this post, I figure it’s worth addressing how the United Kingdom has a similar scheme, often referred to unofficially as UK261.
Paddle Your Own Kanoo
‘Hurry Up And Sit Down’: Ryanair Crew’s Repeated Pleas Leave Frequent Flyer Stunned
A frequent flyer who has traveled to 39 countries and is on a plane “literally every week” says he has never experienced anything like what occurred on a recent flight from the Bulgarian capital Sofia to London Stansted when Ryanair cabin crew directly and repeatedly told passengers to hurry up...
Your Mileage May Vary
Friday Funnies: Travel Edition – Things I Saw That Made Me Smile or LOL (8/8/25)
Travel-related things I’ve seen this week that made me smile, chortle, or even laugh out loud. When Grandpa’s on vacation & still learning how to use his new GoPro camera…
Live and Let’s Fly
Passengers Moved To Tears By Hawaiian Airlines’ Tribute To Grandma Noreen
Some stories just warm your heart, and Grandma Noreen’s decades-long travel tradition with her grandchildren is one of them. Grandma Noreen’s 25-Year Travel Tradition Culminates In Hawaii Trip With Grandchildren From 2000 to 2024, Grandma Noreen took her grandchildren–all 16 of them–one at a time on trips. What an incredible...
Miles To Memories
Ending Soon! Chase Sapphire Reserve Now Live: Earn 100,000 Points and $500 Credit
Chase today officially launched the revamped Chase Sapphire Reserve card which now has an annual fee of $795 and a welcome bonus of 100,000 points and a $500 Chase Travel credit. The post Ending Soon! Chase Sapphire Reserve Now Live: Earn 100,000 Points and $500 Credit appeared first on Miles to...
The Takeoff Nap
Windows 95 in the Sky: United Airlines Grounds Fleet After Hitting Ctrl+Alt+Delete on America
United Airlines faced chaos as a decades-old computer glitch grounded flights nationwide, leaving passengers stranded amidst jokes about outdated technology. Dubbed "Windows 95 in the Sky," the incident highlighted the fragility of airline systems still reliant on vintage software. The post Windows 95 in the Sky: United Airlines Grounds Fleet After...
Frequent Flyer Bonuses
August 8 Bonus Offer Highlight: United MileagePlus – Buy miles with up to a 100% bonus
Today's bonus offer highlight is the next buy miles bonus from United MileagePlus that offers up to 100% more miles. This is a mystery bonus that is revealed after you login. Check out all of the new bonuses added today: The post August 8 Bonus Offer Highlight: United MileagePlus – Buy...
The Bulkhead Seat
Pickleball Influencer Vapes in American Airlines Lavatory and Accuses Flight Attendant of Assault
Yesterday, I wrote about a passenger smoking weed in the lavatory of an United… The post Pickleball Influencer Vapes in American Airlines Lavatory and Accuses Flight Attendant of Assault appeared first on The Bulkhead Seat.

Leave a Reply

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

Categories

Our Bloggers