Sparrows Lodge

Although much of Sparrows Lodge resembles a barn, it's been operating as a hotel since 1952, when it was opened by Hollywood character actor Don Castle, known for his roles in "Gunfight at the O.K. Corral" and "Tombstone: The Town Too Tough to Die." The property changed hands several times before 2013, when it was renovated as the Sparrows Lodge. The exterior is still very western but more retro-styled. Walls are painted a muted olive green, and the wood beams are highlighted with an orange-red stain. The rectangular outdoor pool is as much a visual focal point as it is a place to cool off. Black and wood lounge chairs line the deck, which is also dotted with stone-wall planters and palm trees. Away from the pool is a long table surrounded by Adirondack chairs. A communal barn with open doors, shabby chic wooden chairs, and black barstools serves as both the on-site restaurant and lobby. Hip artwork hangs off the exposed beams on the wall. Guests are overwhelmingly couples, but the occasional solo traveler or pair of friends also stays here.

Although Sparrows Lodge is located a bit off the road, it's still in downtown Palm Springs and strolling distance to a nearby cafe like Koffi or Albertito's deli, which is within 10 minutes on foot. A shopping excursion to the boutiques on North Palm Canyon Drive is about 12 minutes away by car. The Moorten Botanical Garden, which collects desert plants from around the world, is only a two-minute drive. The Palm Springs Open Air Museum, which showcases great World War II planes, is an eight-minute car ride away. For those who love golf, the Jack Nicklaus-designed Escena club is 12 minutes away by car. Arnold Palmer's Classic Club course is a 22-minute drive away. Tennis fans can get to the Indian Wells Tennis Garden in a half-hour by car. Travelers arriving at Palm Springs International Airport will only need 6 minutes to get to Sparrow Lodge by car.

Rooms at Sparrows Lodge are like camp cabins from a Ralph Lauren catalog. Wood walls and beams are stained "russet red"; floors are concrete detailed with pebble-stone lines; and queen-size beds have high thread count sheets. Little luxe details like butterfly sling chairs add to the rooms appeal. But they aren't equipped with modern amenities. No TVs, phones, or other electronics are installed -- an intentional choice to foster a peaceful environment. (Free Wi-Fi is the one concession.) For that reason, it's a good choice for a couple's getaway, or just a retreat to unplug. In-room safes come standard. Bathrooms have stone masonry countertops and concrete walk-in shower stalls. A vintage-style "horse trough" metal tub adds a cool Old West flourish (though it can be uncomfortable). The 20 guest spaces range in size from 300 to 800 square feet. On the large size is the Owner's Suite, which is more finished than the cabin spaces and also has a separate living area and fireplace. 

Since Sparrows Lodge has a "modern rustic" approach, amenities are light, but what they lack in number they make up for in atmosphere. A light continental breakfast, mostly muffins, cereal, and yogurt, is included with the stay. The Barn Kitchen serves simple lunch fare, such as the Ham and Cheese Melt. A couple of nights out of the week it also serves dinner, with dishes such as Lemon and Herb-Roasted Chicken with Rainbow Chard. The attractive pool is big enough to do laps, but swimmers will have to do several to get a workout. A whirlpool is next to the main pool for lounging. The fire pit makes a nice gathering area for travelers who want a little company. Some guests will be disappointed by the lack of a fitness or business center. Free Wi-Fi is available in the public areas of the hotel.