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Orbit In Hotel
Categories: Event Planning & Services Hotels Hotels & Travel Hotels Hotels & Travel Bed & Breakfast Hotels, Bed & Breakfast [Edit]
562 W Arenas RdPalm Springs, CA 92262
(760) 323-3585
- Hours:
Mon-Sun 9 am - 6 pm
- Price Range:
-
$$
- Accepts Credit Cards:
- Yes
- Wi-Fi:
- Free
$115 for $150 Certificate
Ryan S. said: "Big rooms, reasonable food prices, free internet and relaxing mineral pools. Quite a few bargains out there if you google around you should be able…" read more »
45 reviews for Orbit In Hotel
Review Highlights
"...is classic throwback to the mid-century motor inn retreat."
(in 13 reviews)
"Rooms all have record players (remember those."
(in 5 reviews)
"Kevin and Jean were fantastic and friendly and..."
(in 13 reviews)
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45 reviews in English
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Review from Mike D.
Monrovia, CA
12/2/2011
If you're a fan of mid-century modern architecture or simply the era in general, this is a must stay place! There are two properties... the Orbit In and the Hideaway. We stayed at the Hideaway and it was brilliant. The manager (Bill) is extremely friendly and responsive. The properties are within a very short walk of the heart of downtown Palm Springs, with its great selection of restaurants, bars, shops, etc.
The Orbit In/Hideaway has a very nice continental breakfast each morning and a fun little cocktail hour in the early evening. This is classic throwback to the mid-century motor inn retreat. The rooms have period furniture and accessories and the properties offer bikes for use by the guests (free!).
My wife and I had a blast and will definitely return! -
Review from Scott N.
Chicago, IL
1/3/2012
I was on a MCM tour and wanted to stop by Orbit In and check out the place. I love hotels so this was a winwin in doing the tour. We wrongly assumed they had a little bit of a bar scene. No problem, we came to look.
The guy who gave us the info about the bar was super nice, easy-going and didn't seem put-off we weren't checking in. I assume they get a lot of fans of MCM architecture just popping in to eyeball the joint. He had on a cool hat, too.
We didn't get to see the rooms aside from across the pool but what we saw they looked cool. I don't know, go to tripadvisor if you want snaps. The main reason for the review was to let you know if they're that cool to non-guests, they've got to be super service oriented.
p.s. We weren't staying there because we rented a house in Rancho Mirage but I'd stay there if I were solo and wanted to just kick back in the center of it all. -
Review from Jen C.
10/20/2011 1 Check-in Here
We really loved the Orbit In. Kevin and his staff were wonderful and made us feel welcome from the minute we pulled in.
The location is perfect - walking distance to downtown, but just far enough away to feel secluded. Lovely views of the mountains from most anywhere on the property.
We stayed in the Bossa Nova room and loved it. It's a little more private than some of the other rooms - a difference we appreciated. There is a small, very private patio off of the back of the room with a gorgeous view of the mountains as well as the Frey House. The bathroom has an original pink tub and pink tile - rad.
So many small perks that make this place a real gem: free house-made 'orbitini' cocktails around the pool in the evenings. Free wifi. Free water and sodas. Huge (and free!) breakfast spread including fresh fruits, granola, pastries/bagels, yogurt, strong coffee and juices. The hotel also provides bicycles for the guests...they even have a bicycle built for two! They have a huge selection of movies available for all of the guests, plus a closet filled with games and books. Rooms all have record players (remember those?!) and records.
We'll definitely be back. -
Review from Rachel R.
Los Angeles, CA
Updated - 8/13/2011 13 photos
This was my 4th trip back to the ORBIT IN and it just gets better and better! I had been having a really rough week. Had the loss of a close friend and really wanted a getaway. When I think of friendly, peaceful, fun, relaxing, stress free environment, I think of the Orbit In! I called, made my reservations and took off.
I went first to the Twin Palms room, which was adorable. I arrived Wednesday evening due to the 112 degree weather in Palm Springs that day, so I chose to drive in the evening. I arrived, the keys were on the bed waiting for me. The room was clean, very hip in the ultra mod mid century modern style of the Orbit In. I had a fantastic nights sleep! The beds are amazing. So very comfortable!
The next morning I woke up around 6:30 am. I am an early riser these days. I knew there were guests that week from all over the world, needless to say I was super excited to meet them. I have to say, the environment at the Orbit In encourages being able to be relaxed and be friendly to your neighbor. That is one of the things I love most about the Orbit In. I came out of the room to find a guy running up to the coffee machine behind the bar. I had a friend flying in to meet me over the weekend and wanted to document the time he missed, so I asked for a photo of the first person I saw, and he kindly obliged! Then the second, and so on. I was entertaining myself for sure.
At 8:30 Am the Orbit In has a breakfast spread of bagels, English muffins, raisin bread, variety of spreads, yogurts, fruit, granola, and juices. There is coffee behind the bar. During breakfast I had an opportunity to meet the other guests, and asked if anyone would be interested in some 80's trivia around the 5 o'clock martini hour, which is a blast and signature at the Orbit In. I am always prepared with games. I don't know why I brought the cards but I did. Everyone seemed enthusiastic, so I would be game master for an evening. I have to tell you it was a fantastic time. The hotel had Smarties in the office they let me use for the game, Players were in the pool, winners won smarties!
Then of to the Bossa Nova Room! WOW! It was beautiful. King bed, a full bathroom fifties style with pink tile, a bath tub and double sinks. Upon entering there is a writing desk, fantastic chairs, a record player, DVD player, and a television. Not to mention free Internet. I never wanted to come home. There was a full patio that over looked the hill side. The view was breath taking!
I also had the pleasure of meeting the owners Kevin and his wife Jinny. They are wonderful, and so very accommodating. These people are super mellow, full of life, and a blast to be around. They run a wonderful Hotel business. There is nowhere else I will stay in Palm Springs. The Orbit In is it! They have created my perfect getaway! Thank you!Listed in: VACATION MUSTS!
1 Previous Review: Show all »
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6/15/2010
The Orbit In is not only a fantastic modern getaway in the desert it is full of fun, history, music,… Read more »
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Review from lane h.
Alameda, CA
8/24/2011
Our first visit to the Orbit In was a quick one, sadly. But we really enjoyed our brief stay.
We had the Rat Pack room and it was really cute. Record player with records, cute kitchenette, private patio on the back that we could get to our car easily from. Super cute vintage furniture with a modern, super comfy king sized bed. Loved the pink tile bathroom, only issue is the plumbing is vintage too so if you are looking for some magic shower massage experience you've come to the wrong place! The whole room was impeccably clean and tidy.
It's a small complex, maybe 10 rooms total? We really didn't see many people the night we checked in and the pool was empty when we went for our swim. It's a smallish pool, I think it's deepest is 5 feet. But it was cool and refreshing. There is a hot tub as well which has a fire pit. We thought the hot tub could have been hot...it wasn't. I understand that it's in the desert and you're trying to keep things cool, but we had just come from Tucson where we had a proper hot tub and it was great for loosening up the muscles after a long day in the car. The property also sits up against the mountain and the view from the pool is gorgeous.
In the morning we had breakfast outdoor at the bar, which was really nice. Their complimentary breakfast was yummy...bagels, yogurt, coffee, juice. We loved the La Creme vanilla yogurt they served. As another guest said to us, it tasted almost like vanilla frosting!
That was another thing we really liked about the Orbit. The bottled water in our room was free. The sodas and water by the pool, free. Breakfast, free. Wifi, free. I appreciate not being nickeled and dimed to death, it allows a person to just relax and enjoy themselves without worrying about accidentally drinking an $8.00 bottle of water! We had just stayed at the Hilton in Tucson where everything was a task...we had to wear wristbands at the pool, get new codes for the internet every day and had to use our own cooler to keep snacks cool because their mini bar was locked and also full of their pricey stuff. So it was really nice to just relax at the Orbit In. They also have a free cocktail hour at the outdoor bar, which we had just missed.
We didn't meet Kevin's wife, but Kevin was a great host and went above and beyond to make sure we were comfortable. We will definitely be back to the Orbit In! -
Review from Samuel H.
Chicago, IL
11/29/2011 2 photos
Just the vacation spot my partner and I were looking for on our first trip to Palm Springs. We were very impressed with the Orbit in. Everything from the Staff, owers, location, to the palm tree lined canyon private setting and view, made our trip very memorable. We WILL be going back!
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Review from Rachel J.
La Habra, CA
10/24/2011 1 Check-in Here
The reviews are true. Stay here if you appreciate the nostalgic. The room we stayed in literally looked unchanged from 1955. (So beware those of you looking for modern, luxury bathrooms). The grounds are clean, the salt water pool is oh so relaxing, and the spa and fire pits are perfect for nights. The owner is on site during the day, and she is friendly! There is a dog named Blue who roams the property, but he does NOT jump in the pool. The location is prime and the continental breakfast is great! My only (small) complaint is, the TVs in the rooms are tiny. I think I am contradicting myself...they didn't have flat screens in 1955 ;)
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Review from Shawnee A.
Fullerton, CA
8/24/2011
My husband and I just got back from our first visit to the Orbit In, and we are already planning our next stay! The owners Jinny and Kevin make you feel like old friends, and
the orbitinis are incredible! It was nice that the sodas and water were included and there
was no surprise charge on your bill at check out. The rooms were also immaculate!
Can't wait to return!! -
Review from Jonathan F.
Los Angeles, CA
10/25/2010 2 photos
This place was the perfect base for a very fun and relaxing getaway.... It's right in the heart of the downtown area and close to all sorts of hiking, shops, spas and restaurants.
The building and landscaping are fun and does take you back in time. The furniture was different than the norm and very comfortable but not as midcentury as I had hoped. Furniture like that gets very expensive so it makes since to keep it a little more simple. The rooms do have record players and old records from Bossa to Sinatra available which really gave it a special feel and was a big plus in my book. The Orbit has a pool, free bikes available and a nice hot tub area with a fire pit which is great to end a nice Palm Springs day..... -
Review from Kelly W.
Berkeley, CA
12/28/2011
Excellent stay. My husband and I spent one night at the Orbit In and one night at the Hideaway right after Christmas and both evenings were wonderful. The Orbit In has a younger, more fun feel (with bar at pool) and the room we stayed was more spacious with full vintage kitchen. We enjoyed having the record player, which wasn't in the Hideaway room. Our stay at the Hideaway felt a bit more authentic, an earlier building (1949?) than the Orbit In building (1957?). We were pleased to learn that the Hideaway was featured in Architectural Record in 1949 and photographed by Julius Shulmam. My husband preferred the open space and privacy of the Hideaway. I preferred the Orbit In for the color and liveliness of the place. Both excellently appointed rooms. Very clean and super nice and helpful staff -- Kevin, Jeanne, Jade and staff at Hideaway. They made us feel right at home. Also, we recommend taking a short hike (2.5 mile loop right behind the hotel on the Santa Rosa and San Jacinto mountains), riding bikes downtown and lastly, fabulous swims in the SALTED pools....it's like being at the beach but without the sandy mess and just steps from your room. Although we typically stay at places with full breakfasts, we were pleasantly surprised of the nice continental breakfast. With all the amenities offered, we thought the place was a great value. We can't wait to go back!
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Review from Stephanie F.
Long Beach, CA
8/25/2009
There are a LOT of reviews about the Orbit, so I will keep mine short and sweet.
1st off, it's an ok place. I expected the rooms to be a LOT more fabulous, but I actually thought they were more like an Ikea attempt at being really mid century modern. I do understand though, that having real vintage furniture could get costly as hotel guests tend to be less than considerate when it comes to taking care of the furniture, etc.
2nd, and listen up. DO NOT STAY HERE IF YOU ARE NOT AN ANIMAL LOVER!!! The owners have a dog who JUMPS IN THE POOL!! I was HORRIFIED by this, as many of you non-dog lovers would be also. My travel companions think that I'm uptight and prissy, but there are many people that are not die-hard animal lovers in this great big world of ours, and I'm guessing that they certainly don't want to swim with them. Dog lovers do not understand this and tend to be inconsiderate..... I don't know, the dog may stay out of the pool if guests don't encourage it to jump in, but if other hotel guests want it in the pool while you're there, well...you catch my drift. If this applies to you, seriously, don't stay here.
3. The owners were very nice and Orbitini hour rocked, they were delicious. The breakfast spread was good too.
4. No hotel staff after 6pm, so if you need something (toilet paper, towels, etc, you're out of luck)
Now don't get me wrong, I had a great time, this hotel is fine and since we rented all the rooms out it was a blast, but I don't think I would stay here just because. Especially not for $169 a night. -
Review from Sunny J.
San Diego, CA
10/2/2008
I did some soul searching before yelping about Orbit In. I admit originally I was feeling selfish and wanted to keep it a secret, but at heart I am sweet (or maybe a fool) so here is my review - I share with you the fabulousness of my new fav hotel.
DEFINITELY going to be a return guest here. It's the perfect little minimalist hotel to hide out when you've been naughty or want to be naughty. Really loved this place.
We (hubby and I) wanted to be a little more rambunctious in the pool (with our martinis we made in the kitchenette) than the other guests, but so what? We were on vacay! Ass slapping, dunking and water wrestling ensued as others quietly read books and magazines in the sweltering heat.
Happy Hour (sake and wine) is a nice way to meet other guests and learn about their travels. Walking distance from the main strip in P. Springs (which is very small). There is no restaurant, room service or front desk service (after 7 pm) so bring snacks and plan ahead. It is located at the base of a mountain that is so close you can almost touch it.
I just adore this place.
Sharing = Caring.Listed in: Palm Springs Bender Fest!
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Review from kellie b.
Long Beach, CA
Updated - 8/24/2009
You can see from my review from last year, I really love this place. Just got back and I am really disappointed in the way we were treated.
The website clearly states summer rates $119-$159. No one in our party (we booked the entire place) got a rate of $119.In fact our friends that had a tiny room with no view( the Twin Palms) were charged $159 per night. I don't know about everyone else but I know I got billed $169 per night (no kitchen). You would think they'd be happy that we filled the place for the weekend, but I've come away feeling like they bilked us. They wanted to charge us an additional $250 "group cleaning fee" and cancel the free happy hour until I protested. The rates and policies seem to be rather fluid so check all of your paper work and make sure they honor the rates they advertise. Looks like I won't be going back, and I'm sure after this review I won't be welcome.
PS-Kevin made sure it was OK with our group before he let "Blue" the dog go into the pool. The majority of our group loved playing with him in the pool....he's a delight!1 Previous Review: Show all »
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8/11/2008
I LOVE IT! I LOVE IT! I LOVE IT!
The Orbit In is a beautiful mid-century modern Inn and Kevin and… Read more »
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Review from Betty L.
San Francisco, CA
4/11/2011
I was only expecting a mediocre place to stay. What a jewel!
The attention to the mid century detailing was wonderful. The owners, Kevin and his wife, were the most delightful people!! I loved that it was just a very small inn in a residential area and really hidden away.
Everything was complimentary--water in the room, sodas, etc. At 5 in the evening, the poolside bar opens for the "Orbitinis". Any guest can join in on the fun. Then, in the mornings, there is the continental breakfasts!
Very clean and very well maintained. I really am torn between writing this review and not wanting anyone to know about my little secret place to stay in Palm Springs!! -
Review from Kira B.
8/20/2007 25 photos
UPDATE: Just returned from another visit to Palm Springs & the Orbit In. Had a great time. Stayed in the Cha Cha room this time.. while a lot smaller than some of the other rooms (and without a kitchen), we did have our own large private patio with an outside bar. The manager Al did a great job making us feel welcome. Love the O.I.!
I loved my stay at the Orbit In! I randomly discovered it online awhile ago while looking up midcentury modern stuff in Palm Springs. It sounded really cool and swanky.
I went in mid-August, which is the "off" season (because of the high temperatures), so we had the lowest rate of the year. It was $159 a night plus tax, so it came to $177 a night. Minimum stay is two nights.
Orbit In was built in 1955 and was originally a small studio apartment complex called the Village Manor. When Orbit In opened around 2000, it had been restored to its heyday by the new owners. It's on a quiet residential street with homes and other small boutique hotels. There are 9 rooms so there will never be more than 18 guests at a time. No one under 21 allowed :) Each room is decorated with a different retro modern theme, such as the "leopard lounge" (where we stayed), the "atomic paradise", the "twin palms", and the "rat pack room". All rooms have the original pink-tiled bathrooms, and most rooms have kitchenettes with original stoves and mini fridges. There are also private back patios and one room has a private outside shower!
There's a very clean salt water pool to soak in and lots of rafts to float on. Everyday from 5 to 6pm there's "Orbitini hour" where the manager pours complimentary sake cocktails and you can hang out and drink with the other guests. When we were there, there was a sudden desert storm and even though it was pouring rain all over the bar, the manager Al still served us all the Orbitinis we could drink. There's lounge music coming from the speakers near the pool, and it sets a fun, retro vibe. The continental breakfast is pretty big.. bagels, muffins, yogurt, fruit, all kinds of drinks.
The rooms were clean and comfortable. I loved all the vintage pieces inside. It was so cool :) There was even a martini shaker and glasses on a tray in every room, should you feel the need to shake some drinks. We had such a nice, relaxing time here hanging out by the pool and talking with the other guests about midcentury modern stuff. It's within walking distance of all the nearby restaurants, although if you go in August like us, I would recommend driving or waiting until the sun goes down!
I can't wait to go back, but I may have to wait until June because while Orbit In is awesome, I don't think it's worth $279 a night, which is the winter/spring rate.
Also, I'm not going to reveal my sources, but there is some amazing thrift store shopping in the area! -
Review from Brooke B.
Los Angeles, CA
9/10/2010
One of my all-time favorite hotels! The hospitality of the owners and staff is top-notch. You feel as if you are a guest in their home while the mid-century design and style of the rooms allows you to step back in time. We stayed in the Frey suite, which includes a fire place and outdoor shower.
The perfect LA-getaway...Relaxing by the pool, riding the complimentary cruiser bikes through town for vintage shopping, and the best part... enjoying Orbitinis! Everyday at 5:00 the owners pour their signature cocktails for all the guests - the perfect atmosphere to get to know your fellow travelers. -
Review from Jeff M.
Newport Beach, CA
8/5/2008
I had a day off work this past Friday and decided to take an overnight trip to Palm Springs with a new fling of mine. I woke up on Friday morning and realized I didn't want to stay at a conventional hotel, and I searched for boutiques. I came across this hotel, I called and luckily there was a cancellation to the 'Leopard Lounge' and we got a slightly reduced rate.
The hotel was very cool, very loungey and very trendy. It was a few blocks off the main road, but the hotel has free beach cruisers to use for your convenience. The hotel is at the foot of some mountains which provide a surreal view of them if you're not used to seeing mountains up close. There are also these extremely tall palm trees near the pool that compliments the view and helps give you that palm springs feel. The pool is one of the only pools in Palm Springs that has a cooling system, so when the temperatures reach 105 degrees, you can be assured you can dip in the pool to escape the heat. There are also mysters that help keep you cool while you're stretched out under the sun lounging near the pool.
There was a huge California king bed in the room, along with trendy furniture, a kitchen and an enclosed back patio. Of course the room was called the Leopard Lounge, so most of the things were covered in Leopard print, much to the joy of my new fling.
The water pressure wasn't that great in the shower, but it got the job done.
There was also a 'bikini happy hour' at 5:30pm and free martini's were given to us poolside.
There are only 9 rooms in the boutique hotel, so go expecting a relaxed scene. There were a few other couples there but we were the youngest and most rambunctious. I brought some personal speakers for my ipod, and we played our own relaxed music, but it's not your typical afternoon pool party scene . If you want to get away, completely relax in the hot desert sun with great amenities and a friendly staff...this place is for you. -
Review from Keith S.
Long Beach, CA
8/20/2007
I am the little league mother of mid century modern architecture. I root incessantly for eames to get on base in the bottom of an obviously challenging seventh inning. I fill styrofoam coolers full of noguchi slices to consume during these relegated half-time breaks.
The orbit in sits next to me at home games. While a little late to the event, she's got a bigger eichler space to fill on the bench and a much hipper set of shaggy-haired bertoia twins batting third and fourth.
While I'm clearly beyond envious, we both hang out at that local pizza joint after the game. Post-pitcher or two, I comment on the orbit's new highlights (a recent addition from nelson). We talk aluminum task chairs, post and beam and, for some reason, we begin discussing gehry, starck, and other plastic pieces that have recently connected themselves to a number of strangely popular los angeles frozen yogurt chains.
We need to be cut off for the night.
The orbit is a better mom than I. Overly dedicated and knowledgeable: traditional, wonderfully laid-back (yet trustworthy at he same time). She understands her clientele is defined by certain niche palms springs visitors, and she's completely okay with that. She's everything i'd want in a modernist team mother.
Next weekend, we've got a double header...sweet. -
Review from Torr L.
Downtown, Los Angeles, CA
7/6/2009
This place is great because the staff is super nice and they offer you so many amenities at no extra charge: bikes, robes, drinks, and there's even records to play on the in-room turntable. There is no actual bar, just complimentary "Orbitinis" everyday at 5pm poolside!
The hotel only has 8 rooms or so, is at the base of the mountain, and is 21+ only, so it's nice and quiet. Awesome mid-century architecture and nothing is old or beat-up. I recommend the Frey room as it's the only one with an outdoor shower! -
Review from Tracy M.
San Francisco, CA
5/7/2010
I love the Orbit In and highly recommend it.
The owner Kevin and his lovely wife go above and beyond to ensure you have an excellent stay.
I'm not a fan of hotels because they just nickel and dime you to death! Fifteen bucks for internet access, six bucks for a soda or water... it never seems to end.
Well, at the Orbit In it's all factored into the (already reasonable) price you pay. Breakfast, internet access, sodas, purified water, cruiser bikes... even a cocktail hour!! No extra charges. I love it!
Our room was very spacious and comfortable. The pool was just the right temperature and the floating loungers were super comfy.
Also, the location can't be beat. Right near the main drag, but on a quieter street.
We will definitely return to the Orbit In. -
Review from theCrownJule S.
Los Angeles, CA
4/1/2008
I just got back from the Orbit In for a birthday weekend getaway and the high-season price is worth every penny. The location is ideal and the view of the pool and the mountains from our room was amazing.
Alberto made sure we had everything we needed the day before our arrival since we'd be checking in extra late. We were pleasantly surprised by the room decor and made use of the kitchenette and private patio.
We took advantage of the complimentary bike checkout to tour the surrounding neighborhood's mid-century modern architecture. We thought we'd make our ride more enjoyable by downing a few Orbitinis first...sadly, I discovered it's hard to get buzzed off of Sake but hey, any drink tastes better when it's free.
The amenities and attention to detail make this hotel quite the oasis in the desert...I can't wait to go back! -
Review from Marcus D.
Los Angeles, CA
3/8/2011
Absolutely the best place to relax in the desert. The personal touch of orbitini's with the owners combined with a very tasteful decor really make this place the spot for us. Love the bikes too.
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Review from Patrica S.
Sacramento, CA
5/8/2011
So retro and so fun! Late night dips in 100 degree weather never looked, felt so amazing. So happy we picked here. Helpful staff as well.
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Review from liliana g.
Los Angeles, CA
9/9/2011
We just spent the last couple of days at the Orbit In Palm Springs -- it was the most relaxing and enjoyable experience! The hotel is centrally located and the owners and staff couldn't be friendlier and more welcoming. The hotel itself is a mid-century gem -- each room is different and the decor makes you feel like you have gone back in time to the Rat Pack era. The pool is awesome with misters and lots of space to hang out. We can't wait to go back!
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Review from Dan M.
South Pasadena, CA
11/28/2010 1 Check-in Here
One of the best places to stay in Palm Springs. The manager Jade was extraordinarily accommodating...I strolled into the managers office looking for directions to the nearest store for Advil and Jade hands me 4 Advil and a free bottle of red wine!!! The place is meticulous and well thought out. Free drinks, saline pool, comfortable beds and a great outdoor patio to relax under the sun or moon. A must stay when in PS.
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Review from Samantha C.
Sacramento, CA
5/21/2011
There's not a lot to say about the Orbit In that hasn't already been said but I'll throw my two cents in here. We stayed down here for a wedding and had a fantastic experience. Everyone was so welcoming and nice. This isn't a hotel for everyone (as others have mentioned...no staff after 6, no room service, etc) but it was great for us. While the price is high (but it seems like everywhere in Palm Springs is) the thing I liked is that, after the room charge, everything else was free:internet, breakfast, happy hour, bottled water, bikes, robes, etc. It was nice to not be afraid of some mystery charge on our bill when we checked out. Every member of the staff that we encountered was great. When I called to request a late check out, Michael actually told us that there was no one checking in to our room for the next night so we could hang out for as long as we wanted. When we did leave, they offered us some water and snacks for the drive home. It was a really fantastic getaway and I can't wait to come back.
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Review from Verdell W.
Los Angeles, CA
5/17/2011
We checked in on a Friday and sadly checked out on Monday. We wanted to stay forever! The Orbit In is the perfect kind of stay for us. NO KIDS! Also, Michael was amazing, very accommodating without being intrusive. He made some awesome recommendations for my birthday dinner and even made the reservation for us (at The Tropicale, very nice). The pool is just steps from every door and the complimentary breakfast every morning was perfect, with organic granola, yogurt and fresh fruit. Although they were at capacity at one point during our stay, there were plenty of lounge chairs around the pool and floaty things to go around. It never seemed crowded. We stayed in the Leopard Lounge, which was the perfect size and the decor was a lot of fun. The entire place feels like you have traveled back in time - the best of the 60s. The other guests were all friendly and we felt so relaxed after our long weekend that we drove back to L.A. with huge smiles on our faces. I have stayed at the Viceroy, Hotel Zoso and others and I can say that we will definitely be staying back at the Orbit next visit.
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Review from Michelle Y.
Palm Springs, CA
11/7/2010
Stayed at the hide-away a half dozen years ago - solidified our desire to live here. Mid-century modern design and palm springs in general feels just right here. A perfect example of a perfect little hotel.
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Review from clayton a.
Guerneville, CA
4/30/2010
well, it has been years since i visited the orbit in.......i use to go there a lot when it first opened and always loved it.......
i have to say, the place still has its magic....the new owners are very cool and very nice.....jade was also great , too...very helpfull.......
i got to stay in the atomic paradise room for the first time, and it was my favorite room, so far.....its all about the view from the window.....pool, mountains, sky, etc.......insanely beautiful and elegant.
not much has changed......which is good, because that place was done so well.....one of my new favorite new additions was the turntables added to the rooms.......if you have any cool lounge or jazz vinyl, bring your records....its really fun......
amongst the complimentary bike cruisers, they added a new tandem bike, which we took out......VERY FUN!
all in all, perfect experience.....i would highly recommend ORBIT IN to anyone that wants a true, midcentury modern experience...
the only negative thing i would say, and i am just being honest, is the shrimp/fork sculpture and street sign in the hot tub area? those add nothing ......... it only clutters the beauty and sexiness of that area.....
other than that, good job guys!!! see you in the fall :)))))) -
Review from Sharon G.
7/30/2007
i gotta take this away from michael k. while i think it's totally fair to expect a clean room without drippy faucets, i think when he calls palm springs '...a tacky town,' then he's got it pegged all wrong.
palm springs IS mid century. that's the design aesthetic of the area: architecture, furniture design, ambiance. it's not tacky, it's kitschy and that's the charm of the place. it's a one horse town with tons of old folks, gays and those weird desert dwellers that populate all the desert towns. in the midst of all this is an homage to a wonderful design movement. the orbit in participates in this homage and it's perfecly charming. the rooms are small, but it's a small boutique hotel. it's furnished with designers ranging from eames to noguchi and a ton in between. between 5 - 6 they have orbitini hour with free cocktails (that they offer anything at all is worthy of praise, not complaint) and the staff was wonderful, friendly and accomodating.
if you're looking for spainish revival, santa barbara might be more your speed. palm springs is about desert eclectism and experiencing elements of a time long ago. -
Review from Kimba S.
Long Beach, CA
8/24/2009
A whole pile of my friends reserved all the rooms at the Orbit In for this past weekend. I concur with everyone else - the place is beautiful and fun. The pool area is cool - literally and figuratively - with a boomerang shaped bar and misters when it's hot and dry. The rooms were snazzily decorated with retro furniture. Kevin and Jean were fantastic and friendly and accommodating. Jeff and I used the bikes to ride to the main drag - I took Judy and Jeff took
Frank. FYI, be careful trying to ride on the main roads - they say "bike path" but there is no bike lane and really nowhere for a bike to fit in and bikes aren't allowed on the sidewalks. I think my favorite thing about the place was their red dog Blue. Jeff and I talked him into the pool as soon as we got in. He was so funny riding around on his personal floaty lounger, expecting to be pushed to where his ball is so he can fetch it. For those who are not so enamored with dogs as our group was, he is well trained to stay out of the pool when commanded.
Our whole group had a blast. The orbitini happy hour was fun and delicious.
OK, now for a complaint...Jeff and I were one of the first ones to book a room when the weekend was announced - in fact, weeks before some of the others. We had never stayed there so didn't know anything about the individual rooms. When Jeff made the reservation they told us we had the Twin Palms room. Fine. It was the same cost($149 per night plus tax = $166, low season/weekend) as the other non-kitchen rooms (which were only about $15 more anyways). When we got there, we thought the room was cute but small. There was an outdoor patio that was just concrete and some dirt - no plants at all. I started to fume a bit when I saw everyone else's rooms - they were all twice as big and had cool amenities like fireplaces, outdoor showers, one had a bath tub. One was almost as small but had a really cool patio with a bar. Almost all of the other rooms had large picture windows looking out onto the pool area while we just had the one looking out onto our dirt and concrete patio. I feel like the room we stayed in should have been at least $30 less a night.
I also feel like we were given that room because we booked early and didn't know anything about the rooms - of course, they're going to rent out the room least likely to be wanted to the first suckers who come along. I would definitely stay at the Orbit In again but there is no way I will stay in that room at that price.
One other issue: We were not given any extra toilet paper and at night, there is no one at the front desk. The one roll ran out and we had to ask a friend in another room for their extra roll. I was thinking that if we hadn't been staying there with a bunch of friends we would have had to go to the store. I feel like we were staying in the un-loved step-child room.
Addendum: I looked again at the hotel website. It states that the room rates for the low season are $119 - $159 regardless of weekend or weekday. If our room wasn't the $119 one, I don't know which one was. We were charged $149 upon making the reservation and were not told we were getting a tiny room with a tiny bathroom and no view. We assumed at the time we would be getting one of the better rooms since we were paying near the top of the rate scale. -
Review from ANGIE D.
Ontario, CA
9/17/2009
I love the Orbit In! We had a little bit of a bumby start, but it all worked out. This was our second time here and I think we even love it more now. Check-in time is 3pm, but we arrived around 1:45. We didn't try to check in as we knew it was too early and I had not called ahead of time. We parked our car at the Orbit In and walked to lunch (we planned on a couple of cocktails). When we got back to the Orbit In at 2:50 I thought we would check in or if our room wasn't ready we can hang by the pool. Well, we couldn't even get on to the property. The manager had not returned from lunch yet and you need a key to get onto the property or be buzzed in by the office. Fortunately, the very kind housekeeper let us on to the property to at least get out of the sun and get a cup of ice water. When 3:15 rolled around and no one was in the office yet to check us in, I called the phone number listed on the door. I got a voicemail and just said hey we're here waiting to check in. By this time the housekeeper had let us in to the office to wait in the AC and my husband broke out the chilled champagne we had in our cooler. Finally, the manager called back and said he would be there shortly. It turn's out he had a tree fall in his yard and he had to go take care of that.
Even after all that I'm giving it 5 stars. I understand thing happen and Jade turned out to be a super nice guy. Of course I had to ask for late check out since we had late check in. He said no problem, we can check out at any time. In the end that didn't matter because we had such a great time that we stayed an extra night and left on Monday instead.
Jade to a couple of days off so the rest of the time the owners, Kevin and Jeanie, were running the show. They are such great hosts and really make people feel comfortable.
I love this place because you can have a nice quiet time, or you can be social in a smal, comfortable setting. Orbitini hour really helps break the ice. We met some really great people that we plan on staying in touch with. -
Review from Natalie K.
Long Beach, CA
8/25/2009
I had a fantastic weekend at the Orbit with all my friends...rooms were great, the staff was friendly and I just adore Blue (the owners dog)...The only negative thing I can say about this place is the price, other then that it was AWESOME!
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Review from Dave K.
San Francisco, CA
8/19/2008
Yes, yes, and yes.
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Review from Amber D.
Los Angeles, CA
1/4/2010
I absolutely love the Orbit In. I've stayed here twice now and couldn't be happier with either stay. The first time I came with my boyfriend for a romantic weekend and it was absolutely wonderful. The best trip I've ever had. Kevin (the owner), Jade and Michael are all fabulous. I can't say enough about how wonderful Jade's food suggestions are. He's very good at figuring out what you'd like and has never steered me wrong. This isn't the place for you if you expect the most up-to-date, luxury accomodations but if you are a bit relaxed and love mid-centry decor, prepare to fall in love. While every singe piece of furniture isn't authentic, much of it is. Honestly I can't complain that the bed linens aren't from the 50's...
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Review from Mary T.
Houston, TX
6/4/2010
Stay here for the ultimate lounge experience! we just spent several nights here and enjoyed every minute of it. Nice and quiet atmosphere with a unique decor and a fantastic staff. We are already planning our trip back.
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Review from Nanucktucktuc K.
Sacramento, CA
4/29/2010
Peaceful, spotlessly clean, relaxing, tastefully decorated: this place has it all--except for good pillows. I slept without one (for four nights) rather than use the cheap and spongy foam marshmallows provided.
Having said that, I'll continue my praise. The service was friendly and unobtrusive, just what you'd want in a place that calls itself "The Hideaway." The breakfast was nice and the fruit divine. Bicycles are available--free!--for cruising about PS. Do yourself a favor and treat yourself to a couple of restful days here. (Weekdays, not surprisingly, offer the most solitude.) -
Review from Adam B.
Durham, NC
5/28/2009
Stayed here May 6-8 and had a wonderful time; two nights was not nearly enough to both see Palm Springs and enjoy the hotel, so I will be going back.
Location: It's tucked on a side street just a few short blocks from the two main drags in Palm Springs, really easy walking distance to lots of stuff. And the walk into town takes you past other nifty mid-century homes and motels as well. Parking isn't a problem in Palm Springs in the off season, so you could drive as well.
Service: Staff members are there only during standard business hours, so there's no room service, etc. But they really feel more like hosts than staff; there if you want them [during the day] but not in the way. I had trouble with my room safe, which would let me lock it with a code, but not reopen with the same code. Jade was very patient with my requests for help. The Orbitini cocktail hour [which stretched into about two hours both nights I was there] is a great touch, and it was fun to meet the other interesting travelers staying there. Housekeeping service was discreet and thorough; the maintenance to the property is superb--nothing looked aged or worn, despite the fact that the building is over 50 years old.
Facility: It's a small compound, but it's quiet and backs up to a mountain which means terrific views any time of day--the light is completely different in the morning vs. the evening, etc. Public areas are pretty much limited to the open courtyard with the pool and the boomerang bar, but that'll be all you need once you get there. There are more than enough lounge chairs to find a suitable spot.
Room: I had the Eames Studio, and it was great. The bed was quite comfortable, and there was a good-sized sitting area with two Eames chairs and an Eames sofa. [I saw the same chair in one of the shops on Palm Canyon Dr. and it was upwards of $500.] There was a wet bar with a fairly large mini-fridge [oxymoron, I know] and plenty of counter space and different types of cups/plates/etc. It was furnished with details like a print from an Eames exibit, a record player with a Sinatra LP, and a Nelson Vitra block clock on the wall. The bathroom is a little plain and smallish, but serviceable. It does have period pink wall tiles and distressed-glass blocks which let in natural sunlight.
Stuff to do in Palm Springs: I'm a hotel junkie, so I poked around a couple of other places. The Viceroy is on a side street close to the Orbit In, but a visit there didn't wow me. The bar is cool, but the overall vibe was kind of dark and not that memorable. I went out to the Parker as well, which I'd be interested in staying at--the bar and lounge were also cool, with a great barbecued duck pizza. It also has phenomenal grounds, and they'll let you take your drink out from the bar and wander around. I enjoyed sunset from a hammock in a secluded corner. The JW Marriott in Palm Desert is unspeakably huge, corporate, and unmanageable.
Tyler's Burgers was a terrific lunch spot just a 4-minute drive from the Orbit In. I also highly recommend driving a few miles down Palm Canyon to the trailhead of the Araby Trail [aka "Trail to the Stars"]. I did this one in about an hour--it's a moderate hike that takes you past some small apartment buildings up to some magnificent views of the entire valley, then past some fascinating architectural gems such as Bob Hope's house and the house from "Diamonds are Forever" [where Bambi and Thumper kicked James Bond's tail].
Take plenty of money if you want to shop in any of the period galleries downtown--I was kind of disappointed that there's no middle ground. It's either junk or out of reach for mere mortals. I also have to plug Albertson's grocery store, which is a great place to stock up on the makings for all those cocktails you'll want for experiencing the vibe at Orbit In.
I can only sum it up this way: I came here for a couple of days prior to meeting some friends over in Vegas. I love Vegas like crazy, but I was sorry to leave Orbit In to head to the airport for Sin City. -
Review from Paul T.
Houston, TX
6/5/2010
The orbit inn is a great place to stay. The staff is very hospitable and the rooms are very clean. The hotel is a very unique place with a good vibe! My wife and I had a great time and met a lot of really cool folks at the complimentary happy hour.
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Review from Michelle M.
Long Beach, CA
5/25/2010
I visited for two nights recently while attending a conference at the convention center. What a welcome diversion from the ordinary this place is! My welcome was terrific, cocktail hour was well underway, special arrangements were made for my early breakfast, easy walk to Palm Canyon and my fave restaurant, Johannes, groovy accomodations, extra-extra-ordinary customer service, delicious orbitinis, wonderful salt water swim, borrow a bike, I cannot say enough about my terrific experience. I will recommend this place to anyone.
