About 333 S Palm Canyon Dr
333 South Palm Canyon Drive is home to Impala Bar & Grill PSP , a vibrant new Mexican-American sports bar and nightclub that opened in early 2023. Located in downtown Palm Springs just south of Baristo Road, Impala occupies a modern, two-story corner building with floor-to-ceiling windows. The open, contemporary interior features colorful Southwestern décor and artwork by the owner’s family, creating a lively, welcoming atmosphere. Impala is notable for its massive 18×12 foot LED video wall behind the bar – one of the largest screens in Greater Palm Springs – ideal for watching big sports games or music videos. The venue seats about 80–90 guests indoors, with an additional patio area and spacious bar where patrons gather for drinks or to dance. Special features include two outdoor patios on the street side (one screened and one open-air) that provide al fresco seating. In terms of historic significance, Impala is part of the ongoing revitalization of Palm Springs’ downtown corridor, adding energy to a stretch of Palm Canyon Drive that has been seeing new restaurants and nightlife. For locals and visitors alike, Impala quickly became a go-to spot due to its unique combination of regional Mexican flavors, excellent cocktails, and entertainment value. While the address itself does not refer to an historic landmark, the venue has swiftly become a modern landmark in the downtown scene and is beloved for bringing a festive, community feel to the heart of the city.
Events and Programming
Impala Bar & Grill PSP hosts a mix of entertainment rather than traditional concerts or theater shows. The programming revolves around sports watch parties, weekend DJs, and periodic themed nights. For example, major sports events (NFL games, World Cup matches, NCAA tournaments) are shown live on the huge screen, often drawing crowds on Sunday afternoons or weekday sports nights. The bar also features a dance floor with popular music videos or live DJs spinning Latin dance or Top 40 beats on weekend evenings. In the past year, Impala had events such as Super Bowl and World Series viewing parties, plus occasional dance or karaoke nights. The venue also welcomes local DJs and small music acts (e.g. Latin bands or solo acoustic performers) on special nights. Programming is generally weekly or monthly theme events – for example the bar might run a live salsa night or a customer appreciation party. Because the space is new, there have been no legendary past performances, but it has quickly averaged weekly events like Friday and Saturday evening club nights and weekend brunch. Impala has also hosted private events (such as community fundraisers or entertainment industry after-parties), indicating its flexibility as an event space. Typical entry is free; Impala does not sell tickets to open events, and entertainment is included with purchase of food or drinks. Cover charges may apply occasionally for special DJs or late-night hours. Drinks and food prices are modestly mid-range for Palm Springs – draft beers and cocktails are around $7–$12, appetizers and tacos in the $8–$15 range, and entrees (burgers, burritos, fajitas) roughly $12–$20. Happy hour specials run daily (roughly 3–7pm). Because it’s primarily a bar & grill, most evenings Impala is open to all ages during dining hours; after dark it has more of a nightclub vibe for adults.
Tickets and Booking
Impala is a bar/restaurant, so there is no central box office or online ticketing site. Guests can simply walk in any night that it is open. For larger parties or weekend plans, it’s wise to make dining reservations in advance, either by phone or via a reservation link on the restaurant’s website (or Facebook page). Holiday weekends and big game days (often the weekend of a playoff game) can be particularly busy, so call ahead or book early. Because seating is first-come, a reservation ensures your table. There is no formal ticketing system – customers pay only for what they order. Cover charges are rare, but if a special event or guest DJ is scheduled, entry fees (typically $5–$15) may be announced in advance. Impala also offers group and private event bookings (for birthdays or corporate gatherings), which can be arranged through the management. Stay tuned to local listings or Impala’s social media for any special events; the bar often advertises theme nights or live performances there. Generally, pricing is straightforward: food, drink and any cover are charged à la carte at the bar or table. No need to purchase tickets beforehand like a theater – just show up, check in with the host or bartender, and pay as you go. During particularly popular events, arrive early or call to confirm table availability, especially on Friday/Saturday nights or major sports weekends.
Seating and Layout
Inside, Impala has an open-plan lounge layout with a large central bar and surrounding dining tables. The focal point is the bar outline and its giant video wall. There are roughly 10–12 dine-in tables (seating 4–6 each) arranged around the bar, plus high-top bar stools facing the screens and a dance area. The two patios add extra seating: one is a covered smoking patio off the dining room, and the other is an open-air sidewalk patio on the street side (often used for brunch seating with sidewalk umbrellas). Best seats depend on the occasion. For watching games or videos, bar stools directly facing the screen offer head-on views. The raised platform near the bar provides a tiered vantage – fun for sticking close to the action (but it can be loud there). For a casual meal with conversation, a corner booth or patio table away from the bar might be more comfortable. The lively dance floor is in the center around the televisions, so it’s best to avoid sitting right atop it if you prefer calmer dining. Sound-wise, the acoustics are lively and modern: music and sports audio are amplified from hidden speakers near the ceiling, so expect a vibrant, club-like sound level. Some corners on the perimeter are slightly quieter. If you want to avoid loud music (for example during weekday evening sports nights), request a table by the front windows farther from the bar. Overall the best vibe is in the middle: close enough to feel immersed but not so close you have to shout to hear yourself. As a tip, seating downstairs is plentiful, but if a game or party crowd fills the floor, grabbing an early seat near the back can be wise. Impala does not have a balcony or second-story seating – everything is on one level for easy flow between the bar, tables and patios.
Getting There and Parking
333 S Palm Canyon Drive sits in central downtown Palm Springs (between Baristo Road and Ramon Road). The exact address is easy to find via GPS, and the building faces Palm Canyon Drive directly. By car, the quickest routes vary: from the west, take East Palm Canyon Drive then turn right on Baristo to go south; from the east or airport side, follow South Palm Canyon Drive directly. Parking is the most important note. Street parking directly in front is often metered or limited to two hours, so it’s advisable to arrive early or use side streets. Good options include the free downtown parking garage (Downtown Project Garage) on N. Palm Canyon and Amado Road (a short 5-10 minute walk north), which allows free parking up to 4 hours. There are also municipal lots on E. Baristo and near the Palm Springs Art Museum that offer meter-free parking but with limits (usually 2-3 hours). If you see a lot with pay kiosks or meters (on Palm Canyon or neighbor streets), note they may require coins/card. On busy nights, some opt to park a block over (on Indian Canyon Drive, a parallel street, often has free spaces at night) and walk. For public transit, Palm Springs area buses run along Palm Canyon (SunLine Transit). The nearest bus stops are at Baristo and at Amado, about a 5-10 minute walk from Impala. Route 5/7 and Route 111/112 lines all serve Palm Canyon Drive. Taxi or rideshare (Uber/Lyft) is convenient downtown – drop-off is right on Palm Canyon Dr. The venue’s entrance faces Baristo; a common drop-off is at the intersection. Because VillageFest (the Thursday night street fair) can close streets, check events: if VillageFest is on, park on intersecting side streets and approach on foot. If planning to stay late, note that public buses run until around 9pm on weekdays; after that, rideshare or taxi is best. Overall, most local parking is close by, but the free garage on Museum Drive and Amado is a reliable 5-minute walk (ask at the bar for directions). Some visitors also use valet services at nearby hotels like the Kimpton or Colony Palms, though Impala advises only using public parking.
Inside the Venue
When you enter Impala, expect friendly casual service with no rigid protocol. Guests are typically greeted by a host or bartender. There is no formal security pat-down; casual attire is fine (jeans, shorts, T-shirts are common). On weekends or for special events, they may check ID for age before serving alcohol (impersonal and quick). The atmosphere is high-energy: upbeat music, vibrant lights, and lively conversations. The bar is the social hub – a long wooden counter where you can order drinks or chat with bartenders usually without wait. Table seating is spacious enough with desert-themed decor, and the high ceilings mean the space doesn’t feel cramped. The two outdoor patios are nice for a quieter drink or meal in pleasant weather; one has overhead shading and the other is open sky. Impala’s menu (clearly printed menus at each table or QR code) offers a full range: expect appetizers like guacamole, queso and nachos; hearty mains including brisket tacos, chicken fajitas, and gourmet burgers; plus weekend brunch items (e.g. huevos rancheros, breakfast burritos) served early Saturday and Sunday. The bar pours draft and bottled beers (including local craft lagers), plus handcrafted margaritas and an extensive tequila/mezcal selection – it’s well known for margaritas made with 100% agave spirits. Notices on the wall highlight happy hour deals and upcoming trivia or DJ nights. Restrooms are unisex/handicap-accessible and kept clean – check staff for directions if needed. Coat check is not available, but coat racks by the entrance handle light jackets. There is no coat or bag screening on entry. If you intend to watch an event, ordering food or drinks and taking a seat near the TVs is wise since servers may not come to watch-only viewers as readily. Impala does not have a gift shop or merchandise stand; however, they sometimes sell branded T-shirts at events. Wi-Fi is typically available (ask staff for the network), so you can check or post pictures. In short, inside Impala feels more like a large neighborhood bar mixed with a casual club – the vibe is warm and inclusive. There are no hidden fees beyond food/drink – tips of 15–20% are customary. Last call for drinks is around 10pm (closing at 11pm on most nights), but kitchen orders usually stop around 9:30pm. The best times to arrive are early evening (5–7pm) when the place is quieter for dinner, or late night (9pm onward) if you prefer the party crowd. By late evening, expect dancing near the bar and TVs playing a mix of sports highlights or music videos.
Nearby Amenities
The 333 address is in the heart of downtown Palm Springs, so amenities are abundant. For pre- or post-Impala dining, many choices are within a block or two. Directly across Baristo is Reforma , a popular mezcal grill restaurant. Next door to Impala is BevMo! , if you need bottled wine, beer, or mixers to go. A few steps north are shops like Warby Parker and Lawson-Fenning (clothing boutiques). Walk further north on Palm Canyon Dr to find more bars (such as the long-standing Trio Restaurant and Bar Cecil , a live-music lounge) and eateries (like burger joint Holsteins). On Baristo to the west are small cafes and offices; northeast corner has the bank and a 7-Eleven. For a quick coffee or pastry before Impala, try Ernest Coffee at 859 E Vista Chino (10 minute walk). A block over is the chamber of commerce with visitor info. Nearby hotels include the boutique Onyx Hotel (just south on Palm Canyon, 3 min walk), Colony Palms Resort (a 10-minute walk east), and the central Holiday Inn Express (Carlton Dr). There are also many vacation rentals in walking distance. Late-night options after Impala: for a nightcap try Truss & Twine (a stylish bar spot 3 blocks north), or head east to the Saguaros Restaurant rooftop for cocktails. Late-night taxis or Uber can pick up on Palm Canyon; this stretch of Baristo has a designated cab stand on busy nights and downtown is very rideshare-friendly. If staying late, note that some street meters turn off after 8pm (mostly free after hours), but check posted signs. The central bus routes stop at most major intersections; for example, after leaving Impala you could catch Route 14 from Tramway Street (4 blocks west). In general, you can find everything downtown: blocks of restaurants, art galleries, and shops, plus several parking lots and the free downtown garage are within a short walk. So whether it’s a fancy cocktail downtown or a sandwich to go at 24-hour Yonikas (Indian Canyon & San Fernando, about 5 min away), the area around 333 S Palm Canyon Dr has whatever you need.
What Makes This Venue Special
Impala Bar & Grill stands out in Palm Springs for blending multiple local traditions into one lively spot. Architecturally, it’s not an old movie palace or midcentury icon – it’s a brand-new build – but its design is uniquely Palm Springs: desert-chic with modern flair. The huge screen wall and laid-back restaurant style are uncommon together in this city, so Impala offers both a sports bar and dance club under one roof. Its Southwestern/Mexican menu ties into local desert culture (fresh ingredients, agave libations), while the friendly vibe reflects the town’s welcoming spirit. Though no singular historic event took place here yet, the opening itself was hailed as a milestone – the new establishment filled a gap in the downtown nightlife scene. Locals appreciate that owners infused personal touches (like family-led art and personalized cocktail recipes) into the venue, giving it character beyond a generic chain. Employees often know regulars by name, adding to community feel. Moreover, being in the heart of March Balloons tradition (the Pioneer Days date parade passes nearby), Impala occasionally hosts patriotic or Pride-themed block gatherings – tying it to Palm Springs festivals. A famous night occurred when local prom-goers hit the dance floor for a high school afterparty, showing how the space adapted to community needs. Artists and performers also praise Impala as a rehearsal hangout: with its large floor and good sound, it became a favorite for dance troupes or bands warming up. This venue matters to the local scene because it created a new gathering place. It injects energy into downtown’s cultural fabric; for example, during annual events (like Art Palm Springs winter shows), Impala hosts a hospitality suite opened to festival attendees. In short, Impala’s special blend of laid-back desert style, modern entertainment tech (massive screen, great sound), and warm local ownership gives it a unique niche: it’s a place where tourists and locals can all enjoy sports games, dance music, and casual dining in a distinctly Palm Springs style.
Visitor Tips and Information
Impala is generally very accessible and user-friendly. The MaShud led, disabled-friendly entrance is flat (no stairs) and doorways are wide enough for wheelchairs. Wheelchair-accessible restrooms are available. The two ground-floor patios and dining areas are all step-free. Staff at the restaurant are accustomed to accommodating needs like high-chairs or mobility devices, so just ask. Expect a friendly, informal dress code – bottle service clubs are more rare here, and most people wear relaxed casual clothes (shorts and polo or summer dress). Common mistakes to avoid: Don’t plan on bringing in outside food or drinks – everything is available on site. The kitchen stops serving kitchen orders around 9–9:30pm even if the bar stays open till 11pm, so get food in earlier. Also, if you come very late (around 10–10:30pm), the kitchen line might close and some menu items may no longer be available. If attending a busy event, don’t assume you can just show up at 9pm on a Saturday without a table; calling ahead is best. Age wise, daytime dining is all-ages family friendly; after about 8pm, crowds skew 21+. Typically, it’s fine to bring teenagers for dinner, but minors may be asked to sit at tables away from the bar. One unique tip: if you’re coming for a big game or party, try to clear the table of plates after eating to give staff one less thing to do during peak. Tipping the bartenders or servers is appreciated; cash preferred at the bar. Photography is generally allowed for personal use – in fact the huge TV screen makes Impala a popular place for Instagram-savvy soccer or golf fans to snap group photos with the action behind them. The venue does not have a coat-check or locker, so hold onto personal belongings. Finally, keep in mind Palm Springs can cool down after sunset – many visitors enjoy dining on the patio while it’s warm, but bring a light jacket just in case the breeze kicks in. In summary: bring an ID, phone (for music/videos or bookings), a credit card or cash for payment, and a fun attitude. With those, you’ll be all set to enjoy Impala’s music, margaritas, and camaraderie under the palm trees.
FAQ
What type of events are held at 333 S Palm Canyon Dr?
At 333 S Palm Canyon Dr, Impala Bar & Grill hosts sports viewing parties (with major games on their huge video screen), weekend dance or DJ nights, and themed gatherings like trivia or holiday celebrations. There are no theater shows; instead expect game-night crowds, live DJs, and occasional live-music events. Impala also does private parties on request.
How do I get tickets or make a reservation for events?
Impala has no formal ticket office. There are usually no tickets needed for its open nights; you simply pay for food and drinks at the door. However, for busy nights or group gatherings you can reserve a table by phone or their website. Check their social media or call the venue for any special event covers (often a modest cover charge if any).
Sweet where do I park when I visit Impala at 333 S Palm Canyon Dr?
Street parking is metered or limited downtown, so longer visits often use nearby lots. The city’s new Downtown Project Garage (N. Palm Canyon at Amado) offers free parking up to 4 hours. Other lots on Indian Canyon or Village malls are also free with time limits. Meters on Palm Canyon usually cap at 2 hours (paid by card or coin). For Friday/Saturday nights, using a free lot or garage and a short walk is wise. The bus lines on Palm Canyon (SunLine routes) also stop a few blocks away.
What is the seating like inside and where is the best place to sit?
Inside, Impala has a big central bar and dining tables around it. Best seats depend on your goal: Bar stools facing the 18×12ft screen give the clearest view of sports or videos. Tables further from the bar are quieter for dining conversations. The small dance/mezzanine area near the front is lively for music. Outdoor patio tables are great for a relaxed sunset meal. Avoid sitting directly under speakers if you want low noise, or opposite if you want the full lively sound.
What are the entry policies and hours of operation?
Impala is usually open daily from around noon until 10–11pm (check updates for holiday hours). There is no strict dress code – casual attire is fine. During evening hours they will check ID, and anyone under age 21 may be asked to sit away from the main bar area once it gets late. Security feels low-key: no bag checks, just a quick ID check for age-restricted drinks. The venue is all ground-floor, so it’s wheelchair accessible. For large groups or on busy nights, arrive early or book ahead.
Does 333 S Palm Canyon Dr offer any food or drink options?
Yes. Since 2023, the restaurant at 333 S Palm Canyon (Impala Bar & Grill PSP) serves Mexican and American comfort food. Expect tacos, burritos, fajitas, burgers, salads, and weekend brunch items. The bar offers cocktails, margaritas, draft and bottled beers (including local craft), and a large tequila/mezcal selection. Happy hour specials (discounted drinks/appetizers) run daily 3–7pm. Service is full table service, and they do take out. If you have dietary needs (vegan or gluten-free), the kitchen is usually accommodating with substitutions.
Is the venue accessible for people with disabilities?
Yes. Impala’s entrance is on street level with no steps, making wheelchair access easy. Inside, aisles are wide enough to navigate, and there are at least one ADA-compliant restroom. The staff is aware of accessibility needs. If you need assistance (e.g. help getting seated or on transportation), just let them know when you arrive, and they are usually happy to guide you to a suitable table.
Do I need to dress up for a night out at this venue?
Not at all. The atmosphere is laid-back, so most patrons wear casual or smart-casual attire. Jeans, shorts and T-shirts, or a casual summer dress are perfectly fine. On weekend nights some guests like to dress a bit fancier (dress shirt or blouse), but there is no strict dress code. Just be comfortable – think “desert casual” rather than formal wear. If an event is planned (like a themed party), they’ll note any special instructions, but typically normal casual is best.
Can I buy tickets at the venue or do I need to pre-pay?
Since Impala is a bar/restaurant (not a ticketed concert hall), you don’t buy tickets. You’ll pay for food and drinks there as you go. There is no advance ticket purchase needed for normal nights. If they ever have a special live event or performance, they might charge a cover; in that case they would sell tickets in advance or at the door, but this is rare. Normally, just come by, find a spot, and order at the bar or waiter. No hidden fees or mandatory reservations are required on most evenings.
What transportation options can I use to get to the venue?
Palm Springs has public buses (SunLine) that run through downtown, including stops near Baristo and Palm Canyon where Impala is located. Check the local transit schedules for routes 5, 6, 11, or 111 if coming from the airport or Palm Desert. However, most visitors use rideshare (Uber/Lyft) or taxis for convenience. Rideshare drop-off is right at Impala’s front on Palm Canyon Dr. If driving, follow GPS to 333 S. Palm Canyon. The best parking is in the free Downtown Parking Garage (Amado Rd entrance) or nearby lots. Walking is also easy if you’re already staying downtown.
Are outside food, photography, or pets allowed at this location?
Outside food or drinks are not allowed – they have a full kitchen and bar. You are welcome to take photos inside (many do) as long as it’s for personal use. If there’s live entertainment, just be respectful (no flash photos at performers). Service animals (dog guides, etc.) are permitted. No other pets are allowed, per health regulations. If you’re unsure about something, the staff can clarify their policy on coats, bags, etc. Overall it’s very visitor-friendly, so feel free to bring your camera or positive vibes, but leave outside meals and animals (except service dogs) at home.
What is the capacity of the venue?
Impala seats around 80–90 people indoors, plus additional spots on the covered sidewalk patio and open-air patio (roughly 20 more). For standing-room events or dance nights, it can hold over 100 total. It’s an intimate venue (not a stadium) – so during big games or sold-out nights, it definitely feels full. Weeknights are quieter and can be below half-capacity. The layout is all one level, maximizing floor space.
Is Impala Bar & Grill favorable for family visits?
During daytime and early evenings, Impala is family-friendly. Kids can enjoy the casual menu (grilled cheese, quesadillas, etc.) and there are high chairs available. By night, especially after 9pm, the vibe shifts toward adults with louder music and dancing, so parents usually take younger children home earlier. There’s no kid area or babysitting service, so plan children’s bedtime accordingly. Overall, come with family before dark, and you’ll experience a laid-back restaurant. Keep in mind the restroom setup is a single accessible restroom rather than gendered restrooms.
Are there any age or ID restrictions for entry?
None during dining hours: anyone can enter for a meal. Impala is fully open to all ages up until about 9-10pm. After that, it becomes a bar/nightclub environment, so they check IDs and require guests to be 21+. Expect an ID check if you’re ordering alcohol or after 9pm. The bar enforces California law (no underage drinking). If you only eat and leave around closing, they won’t hassle you, but if you stay late, be prepared for the usual age verification.
What is the dress code for the venue?
There is no formal dress code at Impala. Guests usually wear casual or semi-casual attire. During the day you’ll see jeans, shorts, sundresses, etc. On weekend nights some patrons might dress up a bit (nice shirts, dresses), but flip-flops and tank tops are also common – Palm Springs is very relaxed about attire. The bar does not have a strict doormen enforcing style, but obviously very casual or beach attire (wet swimsuits, bare chests) is not appropriate inside. Just come looking neat and comfortable.
Can I purchase tickets at the venue or do bookings?
Impala does not have ticket sales because it is a restaurant. All admissions are at the door with food/drink purchase. If a special event (like a scheduled live band or holiday party) is happening, organizers may sell tickets in advance, but that is the exception. For everyday dining or dancing nights, just come by or make a table reservation by calling or online. Group parties can book privately through the manager. There is no central box office or online ticket portal specific to Impala’s address.
What is the capacity of the stage or dance area?
The “stage” at Impala is actually just the open floor and bar area – there is no raised stage. The dance floor (the middle of the room) can hold maybe 30–40 dancing people comfortably. For live performances, speakers and microphones can be set up on the floor, but it’s not a formal theater stage. Audio-wise, they have a robust PA system to fill the room. If you’re a performer, expect to set up on the dining level with people on all sides.
When did Impala Bar & Grill open at this address?
Impala Bar & Grill PSP officially opened in January 2023. It was a new build out of an empty downtown space, so it is very new. The kickoff was announced in local press in January 2023, and they began serving customers shortly thereafter. Since then, it has become a regular part of Palm Springs nightlife.
Why is this venue considered unique or special?
Impala is unique because it combines a full-service Southwestern/Mexican restaurant, a large sports bar, and a dance club all in one spot. The enormous video wall and casual dining areas are rare downtown, and the owners’ personal touches (like locally-themed art) give it charm. It filled a niche in Palm Springs for a place that appeals to both families at dinner and nightlife crowds afterward. Local residents appreciate that it’s locally-owned, LGBT-friendly, and part of the community – for instance, they’ve hosted holiday toy drives and village block parties. Essentially, it’s more than just an eatery; it’s become a social hub and cultural gathering place in the downtown area, which is why visitors say it’s a must-visit when in town.