Did you know that what has now become one of the most sought-after, luxury staycation destinations was once the winter home to a couple (Delos and Florence Cooke)? Or that in the 1980s the resort’s former “Orange Tree Restaurant” attracted performers such as Patti Andrews, Frank Sinatra Jr., Tony Martin and The Hallemans? These are but a few anecdotes spanning the Royal Palms Resort & Spa from its 75-year history. 

DEEPER DIVE: Royal Palms completes renovation of meeting spaces

Today, as one of the Valley’s most iconic accommodations, Royal Palms features 119 guest rooms; indoor ballrooms (just having undergone a comprehensive $1.4 million renovation); T. Cook’s restaurant; Mix Up Bar; Alvadora Spa and a Mother-of-Pearl-tiled swimming pool. But beyond its comfortable and upscale amenities, Royal Palms also provides its visitors with one-of-a-kind architecture, decor and natural surroundings. 

Located amidst Camelback Mountain, Royal Palms offers stunning views of the surrounding desert. As for the design aesthetic, the resort’s Spanish architecture pairs perfectly with the natural desert-scape. Because of its distinctive positioning and ambiance, Royal Palms has distinguished itself as a top locale for health and wellness. Its Alvador Spa features organic therapies and massages, Mediterranean modalities, a heated Jacuzzi hot tub and 24-hour access to the swimming pool. There are also plenty of fitness options available to visitors, including HIIT and yoga classes. 

Added to the extensive offerings of Royal Palms are plenty of indoor and outdoor gathering spaces perfect for weddings, events, meetings and more. 

In addition to the Royal Palms Resort & Spa “Royal 75” staycation package, there are more 75th-anniversary celebratory offerings for which to take advantage, including:

Commemorative Cocktails

Available at the signature Mix Up Bar, celebratory cocktails include a creative take on America’s oldest known cocktail, the Sazerac, made with Whistle Pig bourbon, sugar cube, Peychaud’s bitters, absinthe ($75) and the Singapore Sling, originally crafted by bartender Ngiam Tong Boon around 1910 at Raffles Hotel in Singapore. Royal Palms’ celebratory take includes Suncliffe Gin, cherry brandy, pineapple and lime juice, Cointreau, Benedictine, grenadine and Angostura bitters ($25).  

Royal Relaxation

The property’s Alvadora Spa has introduced The Royal Facial, a 50-minute gold repair facial that utilizes Knesko products to firm, lift and hydrate while relaxing the mind, rejuvenating the skin and rebalancing the spirit. Available on weekdays for $250 and Friday-Sunday for $270.