Expanded Dining Options Coming To Palm Springs International Airport
PALM SPRINGS, CA — Palm Springs International Airport (PSP) announced two construction projects officials hope will “transform and elevate” the travel experience for passengers. Much work is slated for completion in 2024, a spokesperson for the airport said. The renovations and new construction projects are aimed at enhancing passenger comfort, introducing local flavors, and expanding retail options for travelers, according to spokesperson Daniel Meier.
One of the biggest elements is offering more places for travelers to eat while waiting for their flights.
The first project, the renovation of the gate hold rooms in the Sonny Bono Concourse, is
already underway and set to be completed in early 2024.
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This endeavor will see the replacement of all flooring, strategic repositioning of new passenger service desks for increased open spaces and better lines of sight, upgraded lighting, and a variety of improvements designed to elevate the overall passenger experience in the gate hold rooms. Throughout this project’s duration, the concourse will remain open and operational.
Renovations will occur two to three gates at a time, ensuring that the remaining gates continue operating seamlessly.
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Harry Barrett, Executive Director of Aviation, discussed the project and plans for the airport.
“As Palm Springs International Airport has witnessed tremendous growth over the past two years. It’s vital that our facilities are upgraded to keep pace with our evolving traveler needs. We are dedicated to providing passengers with not only improved amenities but also an authentic sense of place that captures the essence of the region our airport serves.”
In September, the airport will begin its second project to usher in a new culinary and retail offerings era. Public-facing work is slated to be completed by winter 2024, Meier said. All three existing airport restaurants will be completely renovated. In addition, three more eateries are planned, including two coffee shops.
Local Palm Springs favorites Trio and El Mirasol will join the airport along with Coachella Valley Coffee and Joshua Tree Coffee Co. to provide a taste of the area’s rich culinary scene.
The fountain area on the Sonny Bono Concourse will be transformed into Cactus to Clouds, a new circular bar and restaurant named after the renowned local hiking trail that culminates atop Mount San Jacinto, slated to open in spring 2024.
To cater to the diverse shopping preferences of passengers, retail options will also undergo
a significant revamp, according to Meier.
InMotion travel electronics retailer will replace the Desert Mart in the Sonny Bono Concourse. Hey Joshua, which will feature goods found in the High Desert and Joshua Tree National Park, will replace the Desert News store.
Uptown Essentials offers a Palm Springs mid-century modern aesthetic and will sell a broad spectrum of items from businesses in the Uptown area of Palm Springs. This store will replace the CNBC store near Gate 12 in the RJ Concourse. The retail renovations will also introduce the airport’s first duty-free shopping experience for those on international-bound flights.
The Desert Marketplace and PGA Golf store in the Sonny Bono Concourse will close for renovations in September to make way for the upcoming Las Palmas Oasis.
I Heart PSP, also in the Sonny Bono Concourse, and The Pink Door, located pre-security, will offer self-service food and retail experiences, debuting in the fall of 2023.
These reinvigorated shops will offer specialty local items and stock essential travel provisions such as snacks, beverages, reading materials, and other travel-related necessities passengers may need for their trips.
Buzz by Bar Fly, located near Gate 20, will be the first restaurant to undergo renovation,
transforming into Nine Cities Craft – a haven for craft beer enthusiasts showcasing brews from
the Coachella Valley.
Vino Volo, a restaurant and wine bar concept, is scheduled for construction starting in spring 2024 and will re-open in the fall. This will replace the PSP Coffee House and Wine Bar. Additionally, Half Moon Empanadas will be relocated from its temporary courtyard kiosk to a
a permanent home in the Sonny Bono Concourse by winter 2024.
Another notable addition to the airport’s courtyard will be the introduction of a Palm Springs Aerial Tramway-inspired bistro. This restaurant will proudly feature the Joshua Tree Coffee Company and the Palm Springs favorite, The Shoppe Ice Cream.
“We recognize that these construction projects may cause some inconveniences for our
passengers, and we want to assure everyone that every effort will be made to minimize
disruptions,” said Barrett. “We understand the importance of a seamless travel experience and are
fully committed to maintaining the highest standards throughout these improvements. We ask for
the public’s patience and understanding as we work to enhance PSP for the benefit of all travelers.
Together, we are shaping an airport that truly reflects the vibrant spirit and character of our
region.”
As these transformative projects unfold, PSP is dedicated to minimizing disruptions to
passengers. To bridge the gap during these renovations, temporary retail kiosks will be
strategically placed throughout the concourses while retail shops are renovated and restaurant
closures and openings will be timed to ensure that passengers will have dining options available
throughout the entire construction project.
The new retail shops at PSP will be managed and operated by Marshall Retail Group and
Paradies Lagardere will oversee all food and beverage offerings. Any local businesses
interested in having their items offered at PSP should reach out to the respective management
company to discuss available options.
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