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North America United States Palm Springs, California Do & See Architecture

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Architecture

The guide was updated: 2024-11-22

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Palm Springs Modernism Architecture & History Bike Tour

Palm Springs feels like an open-air gallery of mid-century modern architecture, where the work of legends like Richard Neutra, Albert Frey, and E. Stewart Williams shapes nearly every block. From iconic glass-walled homes to bold commercial buildings, these designs embody the minimalist lines and creative spirit of the era. Stop by the visitors center for a map or hop on a guided tour to uncover architectural gems that blend mid-century flair with desert landscapes.

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Our travel guides are free to read and explore online. If you want to get your own copy, the full travel guide for this destination is available to you offline* to bring along anywhere or print for your trip.

*this will be downloaded as a PDF.

Price

€4,95

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Joshua Tree National Park

Joshua Tree National Park

Joshua Tree National Park is where the Mojave meets the Colorado desert, an otherworldly crossroads where two contrasting landscapes merge into something truly unique. Named for its quirky, twisted Joshua trees, the park is a wonderland of rugged rock formations, open desert vistas, and breathtaking night skies perfect for stargazing. Beyond the trees, you’ll find a mix of desert ecosystems, each with its own plants, wildlife, and scenic trails. Hidden Valley is a popular spot for beginner hikers, while those looking for a bit of a climb can tackle the boulders at Barker Dam. For the best views, take a drive up to Keys View, where, on a clear day, you can see the Salton Sea and even as far as Mexico.

Indian Canyons

Indian Canyons

Indian Canyons is a true desert gem—an oasis tucked right in the rocky hills just outside Palm Springs. This land, home to the Agua Caliente Band of Cahuilla Indians, is rich with history and natural beauty, offering trails lined with California fan palms, trickling streams, and seasonal waterfalls that reach their peak flow in the cooler months. A can’t-miss here is the easy-going 1-mile hike along Palm Canyon, a scenic trail that winds through one of North America's largest palm oases. Walk at your own pace under the towering palms, where sunlight streams through the leaves and creates a natural canopy—miles away from the desert heat and noise. At the trail’s end, you’ll find a small trading post where you can rest, grab a cold drink or hot coffee, and take in the views from under the palms.

Walk of the Stars Palm Springs

Walk of the Stars Palm Springs

Since the 1920s, Palm Springs has been a beloved retreat for Hollywood's biggest stars—many of whom fell so in love with the area that they decided to make it home. Today, you can stroll down Palm Canyon Drive, Tahquitz Canyon Way, and Museum Drive to find stars dedicated to these famous residents and visitors.

Architecture

Architecture

Palm Springs feels like an open-air gallery of mid-century modern architecture, where the work of legends like Richard Neutra, Albert Frey, and E. Stewart Williams shapes nearly every block. From iconic glass-walled homes to bold commercial buildings, these designs embody the minimalist lines and creative spirit of the era. Stop by the visitors center for a map or hop on a guided tour to uncover architectural gems that blend mid-century flair with desert landscapes.

Coachella Valley National Wildlife Refuge

Coachella Valley National Wildlife Refuge

The Coachella Valley National Wildlife Refuge spans over 20,000 acres of striking desert terrain and rare wildlife. This unique habitat is home to wonders like the endangered Coachella Valley fringe-toed lizard, perfectly adapted to its sandy, shifting environment. At Thousand Palm Oasis—nourished by the San Andreas Fault—towering fan palms create a surprising, shaded escape that feels like another world within the desert. Scenic trails weave through these fascinating landscapes, inviting visitors to discover one of California’s most distinctive desert ecosystems.

Palm Springs Air Museum

Palm Springs Air Museum

For aviation enthusiasts and history buffs, the Palm Springs Air Museum is a real find. Home to one of the largest collections of World War II aircraft in the country, this museum is more than just planes—it’s a walk through history. Here, you can get close to vintage warbirds, from bombers to fighter jets, and even step inside a few. There's also a theater showing documentaries that bring the stories of these planes and their pilots to life, along with a flight simulator for those who want a feel of the cockpit.

Moorten Botanical Gardens

Moorten Botanical Gardens

Moorten Botanical Garden showcases over 3,000 plant species collected from deserts across the globe, all thriving on the historic Moorten family estate. The garden is filled with intriguing varieties of cacti, succulents, ancient fossils, and striking mineral specimens. A guided tour is well worth it—led by one of the Moortens or a seasoned guide, you’ll get a closer look at rare plants and stories of the garden’s evolution.

Palm Springs Art Museum

Palm Springs Art Museum

With 28 galleries showcasing an extensive collection of art across multiple media, Palm Springs Art Museum offers something for everyone. From contemporary works to classic pieces, you’ll find a wide range of exhibits, including a theater, two outdoor sculpture gardens, and a café for a relaxing break.

Agua Caliente Cultural Museum

Agua Caliente Cultural Museum

Discover the rich heritage of Palm Springs’ first inhabitants, the Agua Caliente Band of Cahuilla Indians, at the Agua Caliente Cultural Museum. Through exhibits, talks, and hands-on activities, you’ll find everything from ancient artifacts and traditional crafts to historic documents and rare photos. Blending multimedia and interactive displays, the museum brings Cahuilla stories, traditions, and everyday life into focus, offering a fascinating look at this resilient community’s history and lasting legacy.

The Living Desert Zoo and Gardens

The Living Desert Zoo and Gardens

Spanning 1,200 acres, The Living Desert Zoo and Gardens is home to a fascinating array of wild animal species from the deserts of North America and Africa. More than just a zoo, its mission is to preserve desert ecosystems and educate visitors about the importance of these unique environments and the species that thrive in them. Explore the expansive desert habitats, where you’ll encounter everything from majestic giraffes to desert tortoises, and discover the incredible adaptations that help these animals survive in some of the harshest climates on Earth.

Desert Willow Golf Resort

Desert Willow Golf Resort

For golf enthusiasts, Palm Springs is a dream destination, and Desert Willow Golf Resort is a standout among its many world-class courses. Featuring two award-winning, expertly designed courses—the Firecliff and the Mountain View—Desert Willow offers golfers stunning desert landscapes, challenging layouts, and pristine fairways. The resort also boasts a clubhouse with scenic views, a restaurant, and top-tier practice facilities, making it a must-visit for both serious golfers and those looking to play in a beautiful desert setting.

Children's Discovery Museum of the Desert

Children's Discovery Museum of the Desert

The Children's Discovery Museum of the Desert is a hands-on museum where kids can explore fun, interactive exhibits that spark curiosity and creativity. With over 100 engaging displays—from art and science to imaginative play—it’s a place where young minds are free to explore, build, and discover.

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