Palm Springs Airport Mini Guide
What is Special About Palm Springs?
Palm Springs is a desert city in
California, over a hundred miles inland from
Los Angeles. It first attracted attention as a Native American settlement founded because of the natural springs in the area. It’s said that the name comes from the finding of an outlet of the spring between clumps of palm trees. The unique location in the desert, but with a source of water, drew architects in the 50s who designed fabulous homes which became retreats for the rich and famous of
Hollywood. Today, the city attracts retirees from across the states and whereas in the past Palm Springs was a seasonal city it is vibrant now all year round.
How do I get to Palm Springs?
The popularity of the area led to the construction of Palm Springs Airport which takes flights from across the US and
Canada. No flights arrive from outside of North America so European travellers must fly into
Washington,
Chicago or
Denver to catch a connecting flight. It’s only two miles from the airport to the city centre and the journey can be made by taxi, rental car, bus or shuttle.
What is the Airport Like?
It’s an attractive little airport whose sandstone construction blends in with the scenery. Sail style roof panels add to its feel of a true desert building resembling nomad’s tents. The airport is set out with two concourse branches leading to a spoked gate arrangement. The northern concourse deals with international flights whilst the eastern concourse handles domestic flights.
What Will the Airport Offer When I Land?
After moving into the concourses by jet bridge, you’ll have a short trip down through security if on an international flight or straight through to the upper level of the airport if on a domestic route. From there you’ll need to ascertain your luggage reclaim belt number and go down to the lower level to collect it. Once in the arrivals hall you’ll see it is compact but has many facilities you might need. There’s an information desk should you need help or want to know about your transport options and ATMs if cash is required before you continue your journey. The car rental companies are easily located by their illuminated signs and you’ll find that by pre-booking you’ll save a lot of time at the desks. Public transport is accessed directly outside the terminal doors for the short journey into the city.
What can I do at the Airport on the day I Leave?
There’s enough to keep you occupied whilst you wait for your flight but the options aren’t extensive. First, hand over your luggage and grab your tickets then you can choose a nice meal from a variety of restaurants and cafes. Full meals or light snacks are available depending on how hungry you are! The shops at Palm Springs include a golf accessories outlet, a gift shop, women’s fashions and a general travel shop. Palm Springs also offers its customers free access to its airport Wi-Fi system.