The Renaissance, 13 miles east of Palm Springs, is a lovely mid-level resort property that keeps busy with weddings, meetings, and family getaways—the atmosphere of the central pool area, which has its own zero-entry beach section, depends greatly on the spirit of the groups that are checked in for the evening, while rooms are designed to a reliable brand standard (double sinks, plush robes, minibars). Built in the 1980s (check out the water feature in the eight-story atrium—it was dedicated by Bob Hope), the Renaissance, a zigzag of corridors in a decidedly '80s boxy style, completed a renovation in 2012. The main restaurant options are upscale pizza and sushi—guests must strike out into the area for the higher-end meals. That keeps this from being a true full-service resort in the luxury sense (we asked to borrow a DVD player but were told there was none on premises), but if you want a reasonable family or meeting resort stay at a good price, it's a fine choice, and you won't miss out on many bells and whistles. You'll find it particularly pleasant after dark to kick back with a cocktail by the fire pits around the courtyard. Rooms may face the golf course, the courtyard pool, or the fountain pond on the southern side, but for excitement's sake, I like the pool (you can't hear it through the well-glazed balcony doors).