Explore Southwest Airlines® destination Palm Springs, CA.

While folks used to flock to the area in the early 1900s for the health benefits of dry heat, Palm Springs has since become a popular destination for fans of mid-century modern architecture, retirees, and snowbirds longing for palm trees. You can hop on the bus and head straight into downtown when you deplane at Palm Springs International Airport, but you’ll be able to make the most of your visit if you book a rental car with Southwest Airlines ahead of time.

With such a long history as a resort town, it’s no wonder that Palm Springs remains a popular vacation destination. A shift from sanitariums to nightclubs and casinos took place in the 1930s, and during World War II it was an important staging area for ferrying groups—which led to the construction of a new airfield in the area. After WWII, the area saw another change and concurrent boom: movie stars flocked to Palm Springs, and with them came commissioned homes from the top names in modernist architecture. Thanks to this post-war influx of celebrity and design, Palm Springs remains a mecca of mid-century modern sights. Visit the Palm Springs Air Museum to learn more about the area’s impact on WWII or book a celebrity or architecture tour for a taste of post-war Palm Springs.

While the dry desert heat used to make the area a relative ghost town during summer months, Palm Springs is no longer just a resort destination. Year-round residents mean there are year-round attractions and a thriving local culture. There’s no lack of local restaurants, and seven of the city’s 45 designated neighborhoods have been bestowed historical and cultural significance. Though Old Hollywood gave way to tract homes and festivals, its echoes are still heard and its heart still beats in sunny Palm Springs. See what you’ll discover—book your next trip to this desert oasis.

Trade hustle and bustle for mid-century charm and plentiful palm trees—start by booking a flight on Southwest. Southwest Airlines flies to Palm Springs often, which makes it easy to plan your next visit. Of course, having a memorable trip is about more than finding cheap airfare to Palm Springs International Airport. Learn more about the Southwest® Experience and book your upcoming flight to Palm Springs, CA.