Celebrating the artistry of mid-century desert style, very little has changed here since 1957, and that's a good thing. We love the throwback glamour and vintage beauty that makes this a bit of a time-machine experience. Wander in, peruse the many vintage treasures and grab an Orbitini poolside while you take in the breathtaking mountain views.
Designed by architect Herbert Burns, the Orbit In originally opened in 1947 as the "Town & Desert" and was one of three in a series of commercial developments by the designer. Cited as the pioneer of the “ultra-modern motor court", it was later that Burns designed the second structure then known as "The Village Manor."
Discovered by a husband-and-wife team who enlisted local architect Lance O'Donnell to renovate the entire compound, the faithful restoration is stylistically almost undetectable from the original. And thanks to diligent research, it retains many of its original features, including Vintage Dwyer metal kitchens, flagstone fireplaces and metal wall clocks, along with a carefully curated collection of authentic period furnishings and decor. Having become the favored desert getaway of former guests Kevin Miller and his wife Jinny Park, their enthusiasm for the property led them to purchase it in 2007.
Now combined, the two distinct environments are laid out in the classic courtyard orientation with poolside and mountain views. Both the Orbit In and adjacent Hideaway feature nine rooms each, many in the large studio style, with sitting rooms and kitchenettes overlooking the pool.
Each room is individually decorated, with the special Frey Lounge honoring famed Palm Springs architect Albert Frey being one of the highlights. (From the outdoor shower on the rear patio you'll have a majestic view of his Frey House II.)
Architectural photographer Julius Shulman first photographed the property with Burns and his many original photos are scattered throughout, along with a display of vintage treasures and collectibles.
Designed by O'Donnell and Seattle-based artist Kevin Spitzer, The Boomerang Bar overlooks the pool and spa where you can dine and lounge with an "Orbitini" cocktail around the fire pit.
A smart and sophisticated update, the Orbit In recreates the best of an era and the chic modern vacation experience.
ADDITIONAL FEATURES
24 hr. concierge services, extensive continental breakfast and gourmet coffee served daily with complimentary poolside "Orbitini" cocktail and wine hour, sodas and snacks. Luxury robes and linens, wifi throughout with HDTVs and DVD players and vintage-style record and CD players in each room. Complimentary cruiser bikes for guests use (daytime). Parking.
AROUND
Located at the base of Mt. San Jacinto in the Racquet Club district, Orbit In is just blocks from the bustling center of town. Further afield, the San Jacinto mountains rise above the desert floor and are lined with miles of hiking trails at a cooler elevation. Joshua Tree, Indian Canyon and Palm Canyon are also within driving distance of the city for the rural getaways.
LOCATION
Palm Springs, California. Nearest Airport: Palm Springs International Airport (2.5 mi)
BEST TIME TO VISIT: Year round