Hulu's Mid-Century Modern, filmed in LA but set against the backdrop of Palm Springs, seems to channel the same sleek, glamorous vibe that makes Palm Springs a top spot for relaxation and adventure. If the main characters of Mid-Century Modern were to visit Palm Springs, they would find themselves right at home among the retro-chic homes, stylish boutiques, and iconic landmarks that make this desert paradise the perfect setting for a luxurious escape.
The Mid-Century Modern Characters
Jerry, Bunny, Arthur
There's Jerry, the pretty yet dimwitted flight attendant who, despite lacking common sense at times, is somehow always the life of the party. He may not know which way is up when it comes to business or high culture, but Jerry's carefree nature and genuine heart bring a warmth to the group that no one knew they needed.
Bunny, a local lingerie mogul with an uncanny knack for business, has always known how to make an entrance—whether in a boardroom or a boutique. With his perfectly coiffed hair and sharp business acumen, he's built an empire, but when a sudden family situation arises, he insists that her eccentric group of friends and family move in under one roof to navigate the chaos.
And there is Arthur, a quick-witted former Vogue columnist, who is never far from a cutting remark or a sarcastic observation. Once the darling of high society, he's found himself in Palm Springs looking for a new purpose, but he's got a tendency to stir the pot with his sharp tongue and relentless humor.
And, of course, there's Sybil, Bunny's sharp-tongued mother—no stranger to scandal or speaking her mind. Sybil's no-nonsense attitude and biting commentary often keep everyone on their toes, and her past wisdom offers the perfect counterbalance to the chaos Bunny creates around her. As the group's matriarch, Sybil's presence is a constant reminder of the family legacy Bunny desperately tries to maintain, even if it means keeping the eccentric ensemble together under one roof.
The Mid-Century Modern Residence
Bunny, Arthur, and Jerry found the perfect midcentury modern dream home in the iconic Dinah Shore Estate in the heart of Palm Springs' famed Old Las Palmas neighborhood. The estate, once owned by the legendary singer Dinah Shore, is a stunning example of midcentury architecture, with sweeping glass walls, expansive outdoor spaces, and a pool that glistens like a mirror under the desert sun. The residence was designed by Donald Wexler in 1964.
A Whimsical Palm Springs Adventure
It's the kind of sunny Palm Springs day that feels as though it's been plucked from a postcard—clear skies, the kind of warmth that kisses your skin but doesn't make you sweat, and a sense of timeless glam that hangs in the air like an old Hollywood film. And, of course, it's the perfect day for Bunny, Arthur, Jerry, and Sybil to embark on an adventure together—after Bunny insisted, of course, that they all spend the day exploring what this desert oasis has to offer.
First Stop: Breakfast at Cheeky's
The day starts with an indulgent breakfast at Cheeky's, Palm Springs' trendy breakfast joint known for its cheeky charm and mouth-watering dishes. Bunny, always one to make a statement, orders the Spicy Bloody Mary, fully embracing the "fancy with a twist" vibe. "You know, darling, if I'm going to be in Palm Springs, I may as well enjoy the full experience," he declares while adjusting his sunglasses despite the fact that they're indoors.
Arthur, who loves an opportunity to be mildly pretentious, sips on his Tenzo Organic Latte and dramatically recounts his latest column for Vogue. "It was about the decline of high fashion in a post-COVID world," he begins, only for Jerry to interrupt with a series of questions about the intricacies of avocado toast. "Wait, you toast the avocado?!" she asks, eyes wide with genuine wonder. Arthur sighs but can't help but smile at Jerry's endless enthusiasm for the simplest things.
Sybil, never one to mince words, "Why do we always have to start the day with so much nonsense? Give me eggs and bacon, and we can move on." Bunny pats her mother's hand lovingly but knows better than to argue.
Second Stop: Shopping at Modernway
After a hearty breakfast, the group heads to Modernway, the famous Palm Springs shop that offers a treasure trove of midcentury gems. Bunny is in heaven, pulling racks of bold, geometric-patterned clothes off hangers as though the store were his closet. "This will be perfect for my new collection," he declares with authority. "I just love all the vintage midcentury shops in Palm Springs."
Arthur, always on the lookout for something to elevate, makes a beeline for a colorful vintage glass vase. He picks up an holds it up to the light and says, "I must have this. It screams sophistication." Jerry, meanwhile, is lost with the other decor, trying our different chairs wile Sybil raises a brow. "When we are done here, let's go to Hause of Rex."
Third Stop: Palm Springs Aerial Tramway
A little bit of sightseeing is in order, so the crew heads up to the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway, which whisks them up to the top of the San Jacinto Mountains. The tram ride offers sweeping views of the valley below, and even Arthur, who's usually too busy making sarcastic remarks, is momentarily awestruck by the landscape. "Well, I suppose this is somewhat picturesque," he mutters, trying not to sound too impressed.
Jerry is practically bouncing with excitement as they ascend, pressing hhis face against the window. "This is like being in an old movie! I feel like we should be wearing scarves and waving at people below."
Bunny, ever the dramatic one, stands with one hand on her hip, gazing out over the desert with a look of sheer satisfaction. "This is perfect," she says. "You can't get a backdrop like this anywhere else."
Sybil, as usual, is the most grounded of the group. She stands with her arms crossed, watching the world unfold. "It's a nice view, but it's not going to fix my back pain," she mutters under her breath. But even she can't deny that there's something magical about the panoramic vista of Palm Springs below.
Lunch at Spencer's Restaurant
After their mountain adventure, the gang heads to Spencer's, a local institution known for its elegant yet relaxed vibe. As they sit under the trees on the patio, Jerry, always the curious one, asks the waitress if they serve a "spaghetti casserole." The waitress stares at him, clearly confused, and Bunny leans in, whispering, "I think she means Baked Ziti Pasta, darling, though that's not exactly on the menu."
Arthur rolls his eyes, but Sybil, ever the pragmatist, orders a classic Chicken Caesar Salad and mutters, "Now, this is what I call a meal." Bunny orders a Grilled Salmon Salad, and Jerry opts for the most dramatic-sounding item: Ahi Tuna Tartare. "It just sounds like something a movie star would eat," she says with a wink.
As they dig in, they laugh, joke, and share stories of the wild adventures they've all had—Bunny's latest lingerie line launch, Arthur's failed attempt at dating a former model, Jerry's series of missed flight connections. Even Sybil, who's usually reserved, cracks a rare smile when she recounts the time Bunny accidentally set the house on fire with an overly ambitious candle arrangement.
Next Stop: Poolside Fun at the Dinah Shore Estate
After a leisurely lunch at Spencer's, the crew heads back to their luxurious Dinah Shore Estate. As they walk through the front door, the house greets them with its signature Mid-Century Modern charm: sleek lines, wide-open spaces, and panoramic windows that let the desert sunshine pour in. The gleaming pool in the backyard is a magnet, and it's not long before they're lounging poolside, cocktails in hand, ready for some carefree fun before dinner.
Bunny, of course, is the first to dip his toes into the water, adjusting his sunglasses with a satisfied sigh. "There's nothing quite like this, is there?" he says, basking in the warmth of the desert sun as he relaxes into a retro pool chair. "If you ask me, Palm Springs was practically made for living in luxury."
Arthur, ever the skeptic, leans against the pool's edge and looks up at the clear blue sky. "I'd call it a little excessive, but that's Palm Springs for you. It's all about excess and spectacle." He's clearly enjoying himself despite the sarcastic commentary, and his sharp eyes scan the estate, likely plotting his next architectural critique.
Jerry, who's always game for a bit of playfulness, bounces around the pool like an excited puppy. "Let's have a pool game!" he suggests, bouncing a beach ball in the air. "I'll be on Bunny's team!" Bunny raises an eyebrow but shrugs, clearly game for whatever Jerry suggests.
Sybil, ever the pragmatist, is already lounging in the shade, nursing a chilled glass of rosé. "Why not? I can't possibly argue with a game that involves no thought whatsoever. Let's get it over with."
The game begins, though it's hardly a match of serious competition. Jerry, in her usual way, starts tossing the beach ball high into the air, occasionally missing it and nearly falling into the pool. Bunny expertly directs her team, shouting playful commands with a voice that's more "CEO" than "poolside lounge queen." Arthur, with a wry grin, slowly makes his way into the pool to join in, carefully sidestepping the chaos but throwing the occasional sarcastic remark about Jerry's 'remarkable' pool skills.
After chaotic fun and endless laughter, they all collapse onto lounge chairs, breathless and content. The sound of the pool's gentle ripples and the distant hum of Palm Springs' laid-back atmosphere fills the air, and for a moment, it's as though the world has slowed down to match their leisurely pace.
After that, the group dries off and heads back inside, ready for the next chapter in their whimsical Palm Springs day—though who could possibly top the fun they just had in the pool at their very own Dinah Shore estate?
And so, the adventure continues.
Final Stop: A Nightcap at The Purple Room
As the day winds down, the crew heads to The Purple Room, a retro cocktail lounge with a history as colorful as the décor. Bunny, now completely relaxed, orders A Date With Frank, a desert twist on the traditional old fashioned. Arthur opts for the Cat On A Hot Gin Roof, something light and citrusy to cool off even the hottest cat, eyeing the piano in the corner. Jerry, always the spontaneous one, orders some bubbles.
The group settles into a cozy booth, and Sybil, in a rare moment of vulnerability, takes a deep breath and says, "I have to admit, this day hasn't been all bad." Bunny grins, raising his glass. "I told you it would be perfect, Mom. Palm Springs works wonders for the soul."
Arthur raises his own glass in a mock toast. "To surviving another day with each other."
And Jerry, as usual, is the one to sum it up perfectly: "This has been the most fun!"
They all burst into laughter, and as the sun sets over Palm Springs, the group knows that this day will go down in history as one of the best adventures they've ever shared. After all, with Bunny, Arthur, Jerry, and Sybil, there's never a dull moment—and that's exactly how they like it.
Final Thoughts
Palm Springs is a place where the past and present collide in a stylish and serene way, and Mid-Century Modern—whether set in the show or experienced in real life—captures that vibe perfectly. From exploring architectural gems to lounging poolside in the sun, Bunny, Aurther, and Jerry would find themselves right at home in this desert oasis.
So next time you're in Palm Springs, channel your inner Bunny, Aurther, or Jerry—immerse yourself in the retro glam, soak in the desert beauty, and live out your own Mid-Century Modern fantasy. You never know; you might just find yourself starring in your own Palm Springs adventure!