SACtoday City Editor Jordan here, and when I'm looking to get away, one of my favorite places to go is Palm Springs — not only to feel like a movie star on vacation, but for its incredible weather, activities, and food. Use these tips to act like a local in between long sessions of poolside lounging.

Palm Springs is known for its mid-century modern architecture. | Photo by @helenehavard_travel

Why go?

Palm Springs has been the desert getaway for Hollywood royalty for nearly 100 years.
Need to warm up during the winter? Palm Springs has an average high of ~70° from December to February.
Press play on the Palm Springs International Film Festival, which runs Thursday, Jan. 5-Monday, Jan. 16 and features guests like Colin Farrell and Anna Kendrick.

Don't sleep on the enchiladas from Tac/Quila either. | Photo by @fondoftravelandfood

Act like a local:

Food: Head to Tac/Quila and pair a Jalisco Mule (tequila, lime and watermelon juices, simple syrup, ginger beer, and mint) with the Stuffed Guerito Peppers, made with chorizo, oaxaca cheese, and chipotle mayo.
Drink: Stop by the RetroRoom Lounge to show off your karaoke skills.
Outdoors: Hike through Joshua Tree National Park where you can explore the beauty of the desert's flora and fauna.
Learn: Check out the Palm Springs Air Museum and see its latest exhibit — Walt Disney's Grumman Gulfstream I plane.
Listen: The Greater Palm Springs area plays host to two of the nation's premier music festivals: Coachella and Stagecoach.
Explore: Use the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway to get an unrivaled view of the region.

This could be our vacation home if only you'd invite me. | Photo via Vrbo

Where to stay:

Vrbo: Mediterranean villa (~$882/night)
Airbnb: Vacation home with private pool (~$343/night)
Splurge hotel: 432 Hermosa — The Dinah Shore Estate (~$3,750/night)
Save hotel: The Saguaro (~$143/night)