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Program Our venue in Palm Springs

TEDActive is held at the pool-dappled Riviera Resort and Spa in Palm Springs. The effortless cool of the Rat Pack’s iconic hangout provides a relaxed backdrop for making connections and taking in ideas.

The Show Lounge and Desert Conference Center

Our live-hosted simulcast happens in the Riviera’s exquisite Show Lounge. Two giant screens bring you the talks live from Long Beach, while TEDActive hosts Rives and Kelly guide the program.

Everything about the event can be molded to your liking – even the seating. In the Show Lounge, choose from beanbags, comfy armchairs, bloggers’ perches with desks for laptops, and even daybeds.

In the neighboring Desert Conference Center, you’ll find editorial exhibits, collaboration spaces, Skype stations, café and snack stands. Wander over during program breaks to interact with tech and art installations, engage with other attendees, or grab a bite and cup of coffee.

What’s nearby

As the old-school hideaway of Hollywood’s biggest stars, the little town of Palm Springs has all the luxury of a big city – and more. It’s home to world-class golf courses, restorative spas, chic restaurants and an outstanding modern art museum all surrounded by a stunning desert environment set against snow-capped mountains.

Venture out into the desert and see renewable energy in action at San Gorgonio Pass Wind Farm, visit the Living Desert for a tour of desert animals and plants from around the world, take the Aerial Tramway into the mountains, relax in the natural desert hot springs, visit the oasis of canyons that were once home to the Cahuilla Indians or hike the rugged trails of the Joshua Tree National Park.

Before or after the conference, stay in town and indulge your risky side at one of the many casinos, get in some retail therapy as you discover the hidden treasures of El Paseo shops (also known as the Rodeo Drive of the Desert), take the cultured route and tour the modern art of the Palm Springs Art Museum, enjoy a nighttime treat at the Fabulous Palm Springs Follies vaudeville-style extravaganza, or bask in the balmy daytime sun as you amble along the Palm Springs Walk of Stars.

Getting there

The Riviera Resort is five minutes from downtown Palm Springs. The nearest airport is Palm Springs International (less than five miles away), but attendees can also fly to Ontario International or LAX and drive 1-2 hours to the hotel and conference site. See Plan Your TED for more details.