The Riviera Palm Springs, A Tribute Portfolio Resort

In the sixties, the Riviera attracted celebrities, royalty, and presidents. While it is unlikely you'll spot A-listers here now, the vibe is Hollywood glam. Cocktail culture rules the pool and lobby late into the night with a variety of music. Housekeeping has a hard time keeping up with the revelers and dirty dishes can build up on the grounds and in the hallways. Travelers looking for a more mellow vibe should avoid weekends or head to the quieter tiki-themed Chiki Pool. To really relax, head to Spa Terre for head-to-toe treatments. The lobby also has a bar and a white chrome pool table. Mosaics of former legendary guests, such as Frank Sinatra and Marilyn Monroe, grace the walls. Pops of bright orange play against glossy, white lacquered furniture and dark wood floors. 

Palm Springs International Airport, Elvis's honeymoon pad, the Palm Springs Convention Center, and the Palm Springs Art Museum are all less than a 10-minute drive from the hotel. The immediate area is a quiet stretch of highway with a few restaurants across the street and a 7-11. The popular Palm Springs Aerial Tramway, which journeys nearly 6,000 feet up to Mt. San Jacinto Wilderness State Park, is a 10-minute drive from the property. Bring a sweatshirt and wear sturdy shoes to explore 54 miles of trails; temperatures can be 30 degrees cooler than the desert.

The overall look is hipster-modern and it works. Think Mad Men style with a color palette lifted from the Brady Bunch house. The retro brown and orange color scheme is accented with oversize, white headboards upholstered in quilted leather and hits of hot pink in the pillows. A luxurious pillow-top mattress is layered with a featherbed, a down-filled duvet, and 300-thread-count linens. A flat-screen TV sits on a mirrored chinoise console that hides a coffeemaker and mini-fridge. Nightstands with three drawers offer some useful additional storage. The "Jack Packs” (iPod/DVD/computer docking station and digital alarm clocks) are also a nice touch. Bathrooms are a stylish mix of marble, dark wood, and chrome. Thoughtful extras include rain-head showers, lighted magnifying mirrors, high-end bath products, and cozy robes. Most rooms offer garden, mountain, or pool views; many also have private patios or balconies. If you value quiet, ask for a room away from the Bikini pool.

Aside from the pools and hot tubs, there's a fitness center with up-to-date Matrix treadmills, recumbent and upright bikes, an elliptical, and cable crossover machine. Bikes can be rented and four tennis courts are available for play. The spa features many types of body treatments and massages, as well as funky, retro decor. Business-friendly amenities include a 24-hour business center and 45,000 square feet of meeting and event space. Wi-Fi is free.