Palm Springs Stars’ Homes: Self-Guided Tour Mon, February 12, 2024 by Randy Garner As you wander through the streets of Palm Springs, you’ll find yourself immersed in the allure of the silver screen. Each home tells a unique story, painting a vivid picture of the celebrities who have called this desert oasis their home. Imagine strolling past the gates of Frank Sinatra’s former residence or standing outside the legendary Elvis Presley’s house, where he sought solace and inspiration amid his illustrious career. Armed with this guide and a sense of adventure, you’ll be free to explore at your own pace, capturing photographs and soaking in the luxury surrounding each star-studded property. Start at one of the oldest and most exclusive neighborhoods in Palm Springs. Old Las Palmas Neighborhood Start at the corner of Belardo Road and E. Alejo Road, adjacent to O’Donnell Golf Course. Liberace Estate – 501 Belardo Liberace (Wladziu Valentino Liberace) was a famous over-the-top piano player. He purchased the Cloisters Hotel of Palm Springs in Sept. of 1967, a Spanish-style, 40-year-old hotel. Pioneer Alvin Hicks built the Cloisters. The address would change to 501 N. Belardo Road, and the property, first called “Casa de Liberace,” would later be called “The Cloisters.” It is here Liberace passed away in 1987. His mom lived in the property behind this home that he sold after her death. Liberace – Thanksgiving in Palm Springs – 1958 Head north on Belardo and turn left on West Chino Drive. Clark Gable & Carole Lombard Getaway – 222 West Chino Drive (r) After actor Clark Gable married Carole Lombard, they stayed in this home. Sadly, they were only married for three years because Carole died in a plane crash in 1942. The house was later owned by Joel Douglas, the son of Kirk Douglas and brother of Michael Douglas. Sammy Davis, Jr. – 444 West Chino Drive (r) Singer, dancer, actor on stage and in movies. Sammy Davis Jr. with Frank Sinatra in Palm Springs. Credit: Palm Springs Historical Society. Continue West on W. Chino Drive. Turn right onto N. Patencio Road Fibber Magee and Mollie – 591 N. Patencio (l) Fibber Magee and Mollie was a husband and wife team of a very popular radio comedy program from the 1930s to 1950s. George Hamilton later owned it in the late 1970s. You can see his signature on the right side of the driveway. Mary Pickford & Buddy Rogers – 701 N. Patencio (l) Mary Pickford and Charles “Buddy” Rogers were friends and co-stars who began dating in 1927 and married in 1937. Pickford was a silent film star, and Rogers was a bandleader and star of the silent ear. She won an Oscar for best actress in 1929. Charlie Chaplin was a frequent guest, and it is noteworthy that Pickford and her first husband, Douglas Fairbanks, along with Chaplin and D. W. Griffith, founded United Artists. Harold Robbins – 999 N. Patencio (l) Harold Robbins is an American author of popular novels. He wrote over 25 best-sellers and sold over 750 million copies in 40 countries. Among his best-known works is The Carpetbaggers, which was made into a film. In 1985, following a stroke and then a fall, he fractured both hips. He remained in Palm Springs for the rest of his life. He died of heart failure in 1997 at the age of 81 in Palm Springs. Edward G. Robinson – 990 N Patencio (l) Edward was an actor on stage and screen during Hollywood’s Golden Age. He was best known for his roles as a gangster, especially in the films Little Caesar and Key Largo. He hired architect A. Quincy Jones to design his home, which he occupied from 1959 to 1973. It was later used as a location to film “Oceans 11,” starring Brad Pitt, George Clooney, and Julia Roberts. Follow the road as it turns right onto W. Via Lola. Goldie Hawn & Kurt Russell – 550 W. Via Lola (l) Goldie Hawn is an American actress, director, producer, and singer. She first became famous on the NBC sketch comedy show Rowan & Martin’s Laugh-In. In 1969, she won an Academy Award and a Golden Globe for her performance in Cactus Flower. She has also appeared in over 60 movies, including Overboard, Death Becomes Her, and First Wives Club. Kurt Russell is an American actor known for his action dramas and has starred in many films, including Stargate (1994), Executive Decision (1996), Breakdown (1997), Vanilla Sky (2001), Miracle (2004), Grindhouse (2007), and The Hateful Eight (2015). He’s also appeared in the Fast & Furious franchise and portrayed Ego in the Marvel Cinematic Universe. Goldie Hawn and Kurt Russell are one of Hollywood’s longest-standing couples, dating since 1983. They have a son together, and have starred in three movies together. This was a vacation getaway for the Hollywood couple. Miami Vice designer home – 520 W. Via Lola (l) This house was used for photo and video shoots for the popular Miami Vice TV show. Kirk Douglas – 515 W. Via Lola (r) Kirk Douglas first came to Palm Springs in 1952 to recuperate from pneumonia, staying at the Racquet Club. He purchased his first home at 1069 East Marshall Way. In 1957, they purchased their second home at 515 Via Lola. Spencer Tracy and Katharine Hepburn rented the house for two summers. MGM director Vincente Minnelli held his wedding reception to his fourth wife, Lee Anderson, here. Douglas family in Palm Springs Sidney Sheldon – 425 W. Via Lola (r) Best-selling author Sidney Sheldon first visited Palm Springs in 1948. He had just won an Oscar for “The Bachelor and the Bobby Soxer” in 1947 and was vacationing at the Colonial House (Colony Palms). Although he was widely known as a prolific writer, he also wrote more than 23 movies and created “The Patty Duke Show,” “I Dream of Jeannie,” and “Hart to Hart,” which was the #1 TV show in 1983. He purchased two homes at 425 Via Lola and combined them into one large estate. Arthur Elrod decorated the house in yellow lollipop swirls. He said in a 1985 interview that he owned homes in Los Angeles, London, and Palm Springs and did most of his writing in Palm Springs. He remained a resident of Palm Springs until his death on January 30, 2007, at 89. Take the first turn to your right on N. Cahuilla Road. Turn right at Hermosa Place. Nancy & Ronald Reagan – 369 Hermosa Place (l) Ronald Reagan was the 40th president of the United States, serving from 1981 to 1989. Before becoming president, Reagan was an actor who appeared in films such as The Voice of the Turtle (1947), Bedtime for Bonzo (1951), The Winning Team (1952), and Cattle Queen of Montana (1954). First Lady Nancy was an American film actress from the 1940s and 1950s. starring in films such as The Next Voice You Hear…, Night into Morning, and Donovan’s Brain. In 1952, she married Ronald Reagan, then president of the Screen Actors Guild. Dinah Shore Estate – 432 Hermosa Place (r) Dinah Shore (1916-1994) was an American actress, singer, and television personality. She was the top female vocalist of the 1940s, with hits like “Baby, It’s Cold Outside”. In the 1970s, she started a new career as a talk show host, hosting Dinah’s Place (1970–74), Dinah (1974–79), Dinah and Friends (1979–84), and A Conversation with Dinah (1989–91). She won six Emmy Awards and was recognized as one of America’s most admired women. The estate symbolizes Hollywood glamour, designed for Dinah Shore in 1964 by architect Donald Wexler. In 2014, Leonardo DiCaprio purchased the property and made it available as a vacation rental called 432 Hermosa. The estate is a 1.3-acre compound featuring six bedrooms and 7.5 bathrooms. Dinah Shore and George Montgomery at the Racquet Club Continue west, and you will come back to N. Patencio. Turn left and take the first right to Mountain View and right again to N. Via Monte Vista. Dean Martin & Jeannie Martin – 1123 N. Monte Vista (l) Dean was an avid golfer in Palm Springs. He was at the El Mirador Hotel, which opened in 1952. That same year, he was an entertainer at the Desert Circus, along with Jerry Lewis. He would also attend the Palm Springs Rodeo of the Stars along with Dinah Shore, George Montgomery, Jerry Leis, and Charlie Farrell. In 1965, he purchased this home. The deed was transferred to Jeanie after their divorce in 1973. Cyd Charisse & Tony Martin – 1197 N. Monte Vista (l) Charisse was an actress and dancer, and Martin was an American singer. They married in 1948 and remained married until Charisse died in 2008. Cyd became a resident ballet dancer for MGM in 1943. She appears in the Ziegfeld Follies (1946). She followed this performance with roles in The Harvey Girls (1946), Three Wise Fools (1946), Till the Clouds Roll By (1946), and Fiesta (1947). Another big hit was Singin’ in the Rain (1952). Martin’s career lasted over seven decades, and he had many hits between the 1930s and 1950s, including “Walk Hand in Hand,” “I Love Paris,” and “Stranger in Paradise”. He also hosted a variety series on NBC from 1954 to 1956 and has appeared on the TV variety shows of many stars, including Jack Benny, Dinah Shore, and Milton Berle. Peter Lawford & Patricia Kennedy – 1295 N. Monte Vista (l) Peter was an actor and member of the “Rat Pack.” He was a celebrity from the 1940s to the 1960s and has credits in over 60 films, including Ocean’s 11, Little Women, and Good News. Peter was hanging out at the Racquet Club in the mid-1940s. He would stop in on the weekends, play tennis, and dine at the Doll House. He married Patricia Kennedy in 1954, sister of John F. Kennedy, and they vacationed at the Racquet Club. Peter Lawford and Patricia Kennedy with Patricia’s brother, President John F. Kennedy. Vista Las Palmas Neighborhood Head north on N. Via Monte Vista. Turn left at the first cross street onto S. Via Las Palmas. Rona Barrett – 840 S. Via Las Palmas (l) Rona is an American gossip columnist. She began broadcasting Hollywood gossip in the 1960s. Rona owned this home just a block from the Elvis Honeymoon Hideaway, where Elvis and Priscilla planned to be wed in 1967. She noticed many family and friends arriving and broke the news of Elvis’s forthcoming marriage. Initially, the plan was to have the wedding and reception around the pool at the estate. Still, because of the onslaught of the press and media, Elvis’s manager, Colonel Parker, arranged for Elvis and Priscilla to be married in Las Vegas. Private transportation was provided by their friend Frank Sinatra. Through her extensive network of sources in the industry, she even broke the news of their divorce six years later. Head west on S. Via Las Palmas. Turn right onto Ladera Circle, which is a cul-de-sac. Elvis Honeymoon Hideaway – 1350 Ladera Circle Elvis and Priscilla Presley’s honeymoon hideaway is a 5,000 sq ft, three-level house. It is also known as “The House of Tomorrow.” Go back out of culdesac and turn right onto Abrigo Road (S. Via Las Palmas turns into Abrigo Road) Turn right at the first cross street on Via Vadera Turn right at the first street onto N. Rose Ave. Turn right onto W. Stevens Road. Debbie Reynolds – 670 Stevens Road (l) Reynolds is known for her role in 1950s musicals, including Singin’ in the Rain (1952) and The Unsinkable Molly Brown (1964). She was nominated for a Golden Globe Award for her portrayal of Helen Kane in the 1950 film Three Little Words. Reynolds has 21 wins and 44 nominations in total. She married heartthrob singer Eddie Fisher in 1955 and gave birth to Carrie one year later. They were Hollywood royalty. Reynolds starred in “Singing in the Rain” in 1952. She became the best-selling female artist of 1957 with her single, “Tammy,” from her film, “Tammy and the Bachelor.” It remained at No. 1 for five weeks. Fisher had been a teen idol in the early 1950s and had his own NBC TV show, “Coke Time with Eddie Fisher,” from 1953 to ’59. They were best man and bridesmaid at the wedding of producer Mike Todd and fellow MGM star Elizabeth Taylor in 1957. But, when Todd died in a plane crash in 1958, Fisher went to be by Taylor’s side, and they soon began an affair. It caused such a scandal that NBC canceled Fisher’s show when it became public, and his career never recovered. Reynolds married Harry Karl, a magnate of Karl’s Shoe Stores, in 1960. They bought this home in the Las Palmas district, which served as a getaway from Reynolds’ work on such movies as “How the West Was Won” and “The Unsinkable Molly Brown,” for which she received a Best Actress Oscar nomination. Debbie Reynolds at the Racquet Club Continue heading east on W. Stevens Road. Turn right onto N. Vine Ave. Turn left onto Camino Norte Mary Martin – 365 Camino Norte Mary Martin, best known for her role as Peter Pan, came to Palm Springs in 1939. She said, “This is the Never Never Land.” She came to Palm Springs after her popular Broadway show and would stay at the Biltmore. Shortly after her producer husband, Richard Halliday died in 1973, Martin began looking for a place in Palm Springs. She wanted to be near her “best” remaining friend, Janet Gaynor. Mary took the first place the realtor showed her at 365 Camino Norte. She later discovered her next-door neighbor was somehow related to her husband, Richard. She had the battleship gray house painted pink and turned the back of the house into the front of the house, and she was in love with the place. Retired actor William Powell lived directly across the street. The first day she moved in, he came out to get his mail, waived to her, and said, “Welcome home.” Howard Hughes – 335 Camino Norte Howard Hughes, Jr. (1905 – 1976) was an American businessman, investor, pilot, film director, and philanthropist. He was born to a wealthy family in Humble, Texas, on December 24, 1905. Hughes is best known for his wealth, celebrity connections, and eccentricities. He was one of the wealthiest men in the world during his lifetime and left 1.56 billion to charities. He also owned a home at 2195 Rim Road in Araby Cove, which is much more isolated. Howard Hughes and Ida Lupino bask in the sun on Palm Canyon Drive in April 1935. Courtesy Palm Springs Life Archives. Alan Ladd – 323 Camino Norte Alan Ladd (1913 – 1964) was an American actor and film producer. In film noir and Western films, he was known for his roles as a cowboy, detective, and war hero in the 1940s and 1950s. He is best known for his role in the 1953 western Shane. His other big films included Carpetbaggers and The Great Gatsby. He owned the Alan Ladd Hardware Store in downtown Palm Springs, now The Five Hundred Building at 500 S. Palm Canyon. Alan’s house is now a vacation rental available through Mod Mansions. Turn left onto N. Kaweah Road. Liberace’s Guest House – 1441 N. Kaweah Road (l) At the end of N. Kaweah Road, turn left onto W. Stevens Road. Turn right onto N. Via Norte Jack Benny – 424 W. Vista Chino (at the corner of N. Via Norte & W. Vista Chino) Jack Benny (1894 – 1974) was an American entertainer who worked in vaudeville, radio, television, and film. Benny started his career as a violinist in vaudeville, Broadway revues, and movies before becoming a stand-up comedian. His comedic method and timing made him successful in radio and television for over 30 years. In 1950, he starred in his television series until 1965. This is Jack’s winter home. American actor, entertainer, and comedian Jack Benny plays the violin on stage with an orchestra and a conductor during a radio broadcast from the Plaza Theatre in Palm Springs circa 1941. Credit: Paramount Pictures Little Tuscany Neighborhood Now, head to Little Tuscany, known for its abundance of boulders. Turn left at the second cross street onto W. Vista Chino. Zsa Zsa Gabor – 595 W. Chino Canyon (left on corner) Zsa Zsa Gabor (1917 – 2016) was a Hungarian-American actress and socialite. She was known for her glamorous personal life and her television and film appearances. Gabor was known for her many marriages, personal appearances, and catchphrase “dahling.” She married hotel magnate Conrad Hilton in 1942 when she was 30 years younger than him. She was also the great-aunt of Paris Hilton. Turn right onto W. Chino Canyon. Elvis Presley – 845 W. Chino Canyon (l) Elvis purchased this Palm Springs estate in 1970 and would spend, on average, about three months there every year. If they were lucky, stargazers sometimes spotted the entertainer tossing a football or shooting baskets with his five bodyguards inside the walled grounds. He came to Palm Springs because he liked his privacy. He expanded the house with an additional 2,000 square feet for a party room, a new bedroom with two bathrooms, and a sauna in 1974. Elvis passed away on August 16, 1977, and his estate went on the market shortly after. Greg McDonald, Presley’s road manager and Ricky Nelson’s personal manager, would later buy the property in 1986. Continue on W. Chino Canyon Turn left on W. Panorama Road Turn right onto W. Cielo Drive Magda Gabor – 1090 Cielo Drive (this is a cul-de-sac) Magda was the oldest daughter of Jolie Gabor and sister to Evan and Zsa Zsa. Magda moved into a home in 1964 and remained there until her death on June 6, 1997, just two months after her mother’s death. She was 78. Sisters Eva (center), Zsa Zsa (left) and Magda Gabor Head back east on W. Cielo Drive and stay to the right. Slight right onto W. Panorama Road. Frederick Loewe – 815 W. Panorama Road(r) Frederick Loewe (1901-1988) was an American composer and musical theater collaborator. He was born in Berlin, Germany, to Austrian parents. Frederick is known for his work on Broadway musicals, including Brigadoon (1947), Paint Your Wagon (1951), My Fair Lady (1956), and Camelot. He also collaborated with lyricist Alan Jay Lerner on the original film musical Gigi (1973). Loewe’s awards include the Academy Award for Best Original Song for “If Ever I Would Leave You” in 1959 and a Kennedy Center Honors for Gigi in 1985. The Frederick Loewe Estate is a midcentury luxury estate. The 3-acre property features a private tennis court, pool, spa, waterfalls, and four boutique-style hotel rooms. The estate is often called “magical” and is a perfect setting for weddings, corporate events, retreats, and other special events. George and Rosalie Hearst – 701 W. Panorama Road George Randolph Hearst Sr. was the oldest of five sons of publishing magnate William Randolph Hearst. His various posts included being the publisher of the San Francisco Examiner. Rosalie was his last wife, and they were active philanthropists in Palm Springs. Rosalie Hearst was a Palms Springs civic leader. Locally, she was a trustee for the Palm Springs Youth Center and Friends of the College of the Desert Cultural Center. She also helped found the Opera Guild of Palm Springs, the Palm Springs Opera Company, and the Palm Springs Women’s Press Club. Raymond Loewy – 600 W. Panorama Road Raymond was a French-born American industrial designer. He is known as “the father of industrial design” and is famous for his work in various industries. Loewy’s accomplishments in product design began in the 1930s, and he helped establish industrial design as a profession. His work includes razors, railroad terminals, the Lucky Strike cigarette packet, the Coca-Cola bottle, and logos for Shell and Exxon. He also designed the Studebaker Avanti car. Continue the Palm Springs tour of the star’s homes in the Movie Colony neighborhood. Follow Panorama Drive and continue as it turns left. Take the next right onto W. Chino Canyon Road as you had entered. Turn right at the first cross street on N. Via Norte Turn left onto W. Stevens Road Turn right onto N. Indian Canyon Drive Turn left onto E. Tachevah Drive Movie Colony Neighborhood Darryl Zanuck – 346 Tamarisk (l) Darryl Francis Zanuck (1902-1979) was an American producer, writer, actor, director, and studio executive. He was a significant part of the Hollywood studio system and produced some of the most important and controversial films in Hollywood’s history. Zanuck had been visiting Palm Springs since the 1930s. He was initially working with Warner Brothers, where he was hired to make the second Rin Tin Tin adventure, “Find Your Man.” Its success earned him responsibility for the Rin Tin Tin series over the next two years. He later fell out with Warner Brothers, so he left and founded Twentieth Century Pictures with Joseph Schenck in 1933. They merged it with William Fox’s Film Corporation two years later and renamed it 20th Century Fox. Schenck had bankrolled all the Buster Keaton silent comedies. Zanuck was in charge of production. He produced 18 features in the first two years and 17 box-office hits, including a 1935 nominee for best film, “Les Miserables.” Over the next two decades, three of the films personally produced by Zanuck won the Academy Award for best motion picture: “How Green Was My Valley” in 1941, “Gentleman’s Agreement” in 1947, and “All About Eve” in 1950. Zanuck purchased this house in 1945. Randolph Scott – 333 Tamarisk Road (r) Randolph Scott was an American actor who worked in Hollywood from 1928 to 1962. He is known for his roles in westerns, war films, crime dramas, adventure, horror, fantasy, and musicals. Some of his films include Ride the High Country, Ride Lonesome, and Comanche Station. In the late 1950s, Scott formed the Ranown production company and starred in a series of westerns directed by Budd Boetticher. He was good friends with another local resident, Cary Grant, who had previously lived together for some time early in their careers. The house is hidden behind hedges. Randolph Scott and Cary Grand at the Racquet Club. Continue south on Tamarisk to N. Via Miraleste. Barbara Hutton – 796 Via Miraleste (right corner on Via Miraleste across from Ruth Hardy Park) Barbara Hutton (1912 – 1979) was an American heiress, debutante, socialite, and philanthropist. She was the only child of Edna Woolworth and Franklyn Laws Hutton and the granddaughter of Frank Winfield Woolworth, the founder of the Woolworth retail chain. Hutton was one of the wealthiest women in the world, inheriting one-third of her father’s estate. She was married to Cary Grant but divorced in 1945. Continue on Tamarisk Road to N. Avenida Caballeros. Ruth Hardy Park will be on your left. Turn left onto N. Avenida Caballeros Turn right onto E. El Alameda. Bing Crosby – 1011 E. El Alameda (r) Bing Crosby Jr. (1903 – 1977) was an American singer, actor, and television personality. He was one of the most popular and influential musical artists of the 20th century. Crosby is best known for singing hit songs like “White Christmas.” He recorded over 1,600 songs and released over 400 singles and 70 albums. He was also an Oscar-winning actor who starred in over 70 feature films and was on the radio for three decades. Dorothy Lamour – 1029 E. El Alameda (r) Dorothy Lamour (1914 – 1996) was an American actress and singer. She is best known for her roles in the “Road” movies, a series of comedies starring Bing Crosby and Bob Hope. Lamour began her career in the 1930s as a big band singer. She is credited in over 60 movies, including Road to Bali, Road to Morocco, and Road to Singapore. She played Anita Alvarez in Swing High, Swing Low, and Norma Malone in “St. Louis Blues.” Her Jungle Love is a 1938 American South Sea adventure film directed by George Archainbaud and starring Dorothy Lamour and Ray Milland. Portions of the film were shot in Indian Canyons. Dorothy Lamour is playing with Jiggs from the movie Her Jungle Love. Bob & Delores Hope – 1188 E. El Alameda (l) Bob Hope (1903 – 2003) was a British-born American actor, comedian, entertainer, and producer. His career spanned nearly 80 years and included work in vaudeville, network radio, television, and USO Tours. Hope was known for his jokes, one-liners, and success in all entertainment media. He spent much of his career entertaining American troops at home and abroad during World War II, the Korean War, and the Vietnam War. He received five honorary Academy Awards for his work and his contributions to the industry. This was their first house in Palm Springs. Their second is on the top of the hill in the Southridge neighborhood. Hedy Lamarr – 1232 E. El Alameda (l) Hedy Lamarr (1914-2000) was an Austrian-born American actress and inventor. She was a film star during Hollywood’s Golden Age and is credited in over 60 movies. She was often typecast as a provocative femme fatale. In addition to her acting career, Lamarr is known for her work as an inventor and radio communications device. She worked on aircraft wing shapes and dissolvable drink flavorings. Lamarr’s technology paved the way for developing WiFi, GPS, and Bluetooth communication systems. She also helped develop an early technique for spread spectrum communications. Her invention is used today for WiFi, Bluetooth, and even top-secret military defense satellites. Continue on E. El Alameda to N. Hermosa Drive. Turn right on N. Hermosa Drive. Turn right on E. Alejo Road Wait for it….. We saved the best for last….. Frank Sinatra Estate – 1148 E. Alejo Road Frank Sinatra (1915 – 1998) was an American singer and actor. He is one of the world’s best-selling music artists, with an estimated 150 million records sold. Frank had been coming to Palm Springs in the mid-1940s. He spent so much time here that it was time to buy a home in Palm Springs, so he approached architect E. Stewart Williams to do the job in 1947. Initially, he wanted a classic Georgian-style home with a brick facade and columns. Williams didn’t like the idea and instead designed Sinatra a modern desert-style home, which he liked, and handed over $150,000. The challenge was that he wanted it completed by Christmas to throw a big party. Working around the clock, he had his house to ring in the New Year of 1948. It is known as Twin Palm Frank Sinatra Estate and is available as a rental property. You May Also Like: Mid-Century Architecture Self-Guided Tour Frank Sinatra Palm Springs Hangouts: Self-Guided Tour Palm Springs Big City Loop Bike Tour Elvis Loved Palm Springs
Architects Who Built Palm Springs: A. Quincy Jones Thu, February 1, 2024 by Randy Garner Archibald Quincy Jones, whom most refer to as A. Quincy Jones, was an architect from Los Angeles who designed many glamorous midcentury modern homes. After graduating in architecture from the University of Washington in 1936, he began his career in Los Angeles. From 1939 to 1940, Jones worked for Paul R. Williams, with whom he later collaborated on three Palm Springs projects. From 1942 to 1945, Jones served in the U.S. Navy, then returned to Los Angeles and opened his architectural office, A. Quincy Jones & Associates. The company won the coveted American Institute of Architects Architectural Firm award for “overall achievement in architecture” in 1969. Jones personally was the recipient of more than 70 citations for excellence in his field. He collaborated with many architects, including Paul R. Williams, for several Palm Springs projects. Jones was a professor and later dean at the University of Southern California School of Architecture from 1951 through 1967. In the 1960s, Jones designed several university campus buildings and larger office buildings. In 1964, Jones designed the 32,000 sq. ft. Rancho Mirage home of Walter Annenberg, “Sunnylands.” Quincy Jones transformed the California tract house into a logically designed structure integrated into the landscape and surrounded by greenbelts, popularizing the informal, outdoor-oriented lifestyle. His larger buildings saw innovations in mechanical systems integration and utilizing space efficiently. Jones’ focus on detail, siting, and sense of aesthetic style make his buildings supreme examples of midcentury American Architecture. Quincy Jones became an expert at designing for the harsh desert climate. His approach included the use of wide overhangs that provided much-needed shade against the direct sun exposure during the summer. In the winter, when the sun was lower in the sky, the sun would heat the structures through solar gain. The use of turned-down eaves and vertical louvers on the west façades protected structures from heat gain in the late afternoon when the sun was lowest in the sky. These were features far ahead of their time. Palm Springs Tennis Club Addition (1947) – 701 W Baristo Road Pearl McManus, a Palm Springs pioneer, had built the Tennis Club with great fanfare. She was known for her astute real estate dealings and political connections. “Auntie Pearl” began her tennis club with only two courts and an elegant clubhouse built just below her pink mansion in 1937. In 1939 Pearl hired Tony Burke, a local real estate entrepreneur and avid Palm Springs booster, as club manager. Things happened immediately under Tony’s direction. He installed the first bowling green in Palm Springs, and it became an instant success. A vigorous membership campaign brought many new members from the ranks of Tony’s friends in show business. Among the first were Ronald Coleman and Gilbert Roland (an accomplished player). The next innovation was the creation of a trout stream that ran through the club grounds and was fed by melted snow descending from Mt. San Jacinto. Tony arranged for trout to be transplanted from the Whitewater hatchery to the stream. Members caught beautiful trout, which were then prepared in the kitchen for dinner. The Tennis Club additions were a joint design project of Paul Williams and A. Quincy Jones. Their vision transformed the existing Amalfi monastery-style inspired club with its traditional tennis courts, swimming pool, and dining room into a complex that organically fits the desert environment. The addition was a more sophisticated version, emphasizing solid volume, the natural wood and stone of the surrounding environment, and unpainted brick and wrap-around glass tying the outdoors to the indoors. Besides expanding and renovating the kitchen, swimming, and tennis areas, the plans grew to include a new main dining room, the Bougainvillea Room, a snack bar, a cocktail lounge with a terrace for outdoor dining, and a lawn terrace for lounging and sunbathing. Town & Country (1948) – 169 N. Indian Canyon Originally opening as “The Center,” it was constructed in multiple phases on land owned by the Bank of America. It was later dubbed the Town & Country Center. Quincy Jones and Paul R. Williams designed the expansive courtyard sandwiched between Palm Canyon and Indian Canyon Drives, giving an inner sanctum for people to gather and cross paths. It is considered an outstanding example of international-style architecture, emphasizing volume over mass. The west side’s semicircular structure with faceted plate glass and an overhang between the first and second floors is a combination of streamline modern, emphasizing sleekness, and rectilinear international style. A floating staircase rises from the asymmetrical platform. The project so successfully drew in customers that the owner pushed to remodel the entire block, and construction continued until 1955. Other architects who put their touches on the property included Albert Frey, John Porter Clark, Donald Wexler, and Richard Harrison. It became a Class 1 Historic site in April of 2016. Bank of America (1949) – 146-150 North Palm Canyon Drive Paul Williams and Quincy Jones designed this building that was part of the Town & Country complex. This is now retail stores along Palm Canyon. The Jerome J. Robinson House (1957) – 999 North Patencio Road This is a 6,307 sq. ft, 3-bedroom, 6-bathroom home with an office suite addition to the master bedroom (1971). Very wide overhangs protect the southern façade, and Jones’ signature wide canopy leads to the entrance positioned deep in the house. Inside, a refreshing interior garden separates the lounge from the dining room. The home was used in the film Ocean’s 11. Country Club Estates Condo (1965) – La Vern Way, South Camino Real This is a low-density complex of 30 midcentury modern residences sitting on a 4.6-acre parcel in the South of Palm Springs. Many homes are U-shaped and anchored by a small interior courtyard. The walls feature cinderblocks to help bring the outside inside. Demolished Romanoffs on the Rocks (1950) – 67399 E. Palm Canyon (Highway 111) A. Quincy Jones and Frederick Emmons were the architects. It changed names and closed in 1962. It turned into a nightclub called Pompeii and later burned down as a result of arson. You May Also Like: Palm Springs Architecture
A Taste of Latin Flavors in Palm Springs Mon, January 22, 2024 by Randy Garner Best Places for Tacos, Tequila, and Tamales By Marissa Willman California is known for its exceptional Mexican food, and Palm Springs is home to some of the tastiest tacos, tequila, and tamales around. Whether you’re a Palm Springs local or a visitor looking for the best Mexican food in town, you’ll find plenty of delicious options at these favorite Palm Springs Mexican restaurants. Palm Springs Mexican Restaurants: Tacos Tacos are a must when enjoying Mexican cuisine, and luckily, Palm Springs has plenty of options for authentic and mouth-watering tacos across the city. These favorites will take your next Taco Tuesday to a new level. Maleza The flavors of the Baja coast are on full display at Maleza, which is now open at The Drift Hotel. The name comes from the word meaning “underneath” or “from the earth.” Here, guests can enjoy a selection of six Baja-inspired tacos, including adobo shrimp with chorizo aioli, mahi with lime crema slaw, and pork carnitas with pickled vegetables. There’s even a grilled mushroom option served with pea puree for those looking for veggie options. Best of all, these tacos can also be served poolside. Pair it with a rare mezcal or craft cocktail. Source: Maleza Low Desert / Modern Mexican At Smoketree Shopping Center, Low Desert / Modern Mexican serves up authentic Mexican street tacos–with a modern twist. Choose from seven varieties of street tacos, including grilled shrimp in a chipotle marinade and al pastor adobo pork served with pineapple chimichurri. Are you looking for more? The “Low Desert Tacos” menu has three more options: ahi tuna with mango pico de gallo, asada steak with chimichurri sauce, and quesabirria with Oaxaca cheese and pickled onions. They also have a Happy Hour with a discount on street tacos from 2 – 5 pm. La Bonita’s La Bonita’s is a local family-owned Mexican restaurant on Palm Canyon Drive known for its authentic Mexican fare. Expect a casual and intimate atmosphere with homemade food. Choose from grilled chicken or carne asada soft or hard shell tacos, and don’t miss the signature Queso Bonita Tacos, with taco shells made from three melted cheeses. Yummy! For the seafood lover, they offer a traditional fried cod fish taco and a Mahi Miahi taco. Pair it with a lime or Jalapeno margarita. El Patio Palm Springs As the sister restaurant to local favorite and family-owned Felipes, El Patio brings a taste of Guadalajara to the heart of Palm Springs. With ample indoor and outdoor seating, El Patio offers a lively ambiance in which to enjoy an elevated taco menu. You can begin the day with a breakfast chorizo taco with over-easy eggs on corn tortillas served with avocado and choose. For lunch and dinner, options include Tacos Lidia, which are steak and chorizo tacos with grilled onions and serrano peppers, and Tacos Gobernador, which includes sautéed shrimp and melted cheese. Puerto Vallarta and La Paz also have namesake tacos on the menu, and the jicama salad tacos (jicama stuffed with cucumber, carrot, and pineapple or mango) are a delicious start to your meal. El Jefe Desert Cantiana El Jefe is a Palm Springs staple for tacos and tequila, located in the colorful lobby of The Saguaro Palm Springs. The cantina’s “Tacos Y Mas” menu includes surf and turf taco varieties, plus veggie options for vegetarian and vegan guests. Choose from Baja fish, shrimp, chicken tinga, short rib, pork, or mushroom tacos. Don’t miss the extensive tequila and mezcal selection. They also have a $5 taco Tuesday and taco Thursday menu served from 6 – 9 pm. Clandestino Sophisticated, moody, and mysterious, Clandestino offers an upscale ambiance where you can enjoy delectable tacos with views of the San Jacinto Mountains. Here, the taco offerings are split into two menus: “Streetwise,” which features small street tacos served in pairs, and “Elevated Moments,” a collection of individually served gourmet tacos. Street taco options include carnitas, fried sole, and chicken sopes, while gourmet options include seared ahi tuna, arrachera steak, roasted romesco and cauliflower, and grilled salmon. Whichever you choose, pair your tacos with Clandestino’s signature margarita flight, which features cucumber, mango, jamaica, and guava margarita tastings. Palm Springs Mexican Restaurants: Tequila What pairs better with Mexican food than tequila and margaritas? Palm Springs knows its way around a cocktail, and the tequila offerings are no exception. Don’t miss these Palm Springs favorites. Blue Coyote Besides traditional Mexican cuisine, their Wild Coyote Margarita is one of the best you’ll ever taste. The recipe is a family secret, and believe me, we’ve asked. They tell us one of the secrets is it’s aged a bit and is not made to order. You will see them pouring them out of a gallon pitcher. This is a must-try margarita made with gold tequila, orange curacao, and fresh lime juice. Las Casuelas Terraza Family-owned and one of the oldest restaurants in Palm Springs, Las Casuelas Terraza on South Palm Canyon is known for its impressive tequila and mezcal selection. You’ll find dozens of varieties to try and a selection of flights. They offer unique selections from different places of origin and different producers. Don’t skip the margarita menu, which includes the Jalapeno Scratch Margarita, served with sliced jalapenos and a float of chile liquor, and the El Diablo, made with reposado, creme de cassis, lime, and ginger beer. Margaritas frescas are also offered in jamaica, blood orange, tamarindo, and guayaba flavors. Tac/Quila The culinary team behind beloved spot FARM and Clandestino offers a modern take on traditional Mexican cuisine at Tac/Quila, a Michelin-recommended restaurant on North Palm Canyon Drive. Tacos with house-made tortillas are always a must, and the tequila and mezcal menu shouldn’t be missed. More than 50 varieties are available, whether you enjoy blanco, reposado, or anejo tequila. Would you prefer a cocktail? Tac/Quila has both a margarita menu and a menu of signature handcrafted tequila and mezcal cocktails, so it’s easy to take your pick. The margarita menu is fruit-forward with spicy blackberry and kiwi options and a flight of four options. For cocktails, don’t miss the Mexican Coffee Martini with reposado and coffee liquor or the Cielito Lindo with tequila, chinola, and starfruit. Sancho’s You might not expect Mexican cuisine and margaritas at a Polynesian-inspired resort, but Caliente Tropics Resort is home to great tacos and margaritas at its restaurant, Sancho’s. Try the signature Cantarito, made with their house label blanco tequila, fresh citrus, and Squirt for a refreshing sip, or the tequila sunrise, which features homemade hibiscus-habanero syrup. Margarita Mondays and daily happy hour also keep the cocktails easy on your wallet. Felipe’s Felipe’s is a beloved first or last stop for locals and visitors traveling through the Palm Springs International Airport, thanks to its location within walking distance. Two Filipes co-own this local favorite, known for its high quality Mexican fare. And while the food alone is worth the visit, the creative margarita menu is also a guest favorite. Margarita varieties include jamaica, mango and tajin, passionfruit, and pineapple mezcal. An Instagram-worthy choice is the Margarita Tower, which features three different varieties served like a bouquet. El Patron Located in the heart of Downtown Palm Springs, steps from Forever Marilyn and the Kimpton Rowan Palm Springs, El Patron is known for its Baja-inspired cuisine and local ingredients. Guests can pick tequila cocktails or enjoy a flight of fruit-flavored margaritas, including mixed berry, prickly pear, pineapple tamarindo, and roasted pineapple serrano. El Patron also offers various tequila and mezcal flavored shots, like the Mangonida with tequila and mango puree or the Mexican Candy with tequila, Watermelon Pucker, pineapple juice, and Tapatio. Casa Blanca Tucked inside downtown’s La Plaza shopping center, Casa Blanca Palm Springs serves traditional Mexican food for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. When it comes to cocktails, the Mexican Flight offers a sampling of Casa Blanca’s four signature margarita flavors: tamarindo, watermelon, mango, and lime. Another signature tequila cocktail guests love is the Toxica Mula, a Mexican-inspired spin on a Moscow Mule made with Cazadores, Watermelon Pucker Mint, and ginger beer with a tajin and chamoy rim. Sol Agave Impeccable views pair beautifully with upscale Mexican cuisine at Sol Agave in Downtown Palm Springs. When it comes to trying their tequila offerings, the Sol Agave Margarita Flight is the star of the show. Tour Sol Agave’s four signature margaritas: tamarindo, spicy mango, cucumber cilantro, and watermelon basil, while enjoying crispy tinga chicken tacos or blackened Mahi tacos. Palm Springs Mexican Restaurants: Tamales Traditionally a winter treat, tamales are always on the menu in Palm Springs. Here’s where to sink your teeth into some of the most delicious tamales in town. Maracas You’ll find delicious Mexican fare in the heart of downtown Palm Springs at Maracas. Mexican classics fill the extensive menu, and you can take your pick of pork, chicken, or beef tamales when ordering a combination plate. Choose from pork with adobo red sauce, chicken with tomatillo green chili sauce, or shredded beef in red mole sauce, all served with Mexican rice, refried beans, and a side of Maracas’ signature corn cake. For the perfect pairing, pick from over 100 tequilas, margaritas, and cocktails. Salud! Las Cazuelas Original For over 60 years, the Delgado family has served up their great-grandmother’s recipes at Las Casuelas, one of Palm Springs’ oldest family-owned restaurants that opened in 1958 and is located on North Palm Canyon. Grab a seat on the patio at Las Casuelas Original and enjoy homemade pork, chicken, or beef tamales with views of downtown Palm Springs and the San Jacinto Mountains. La Perlita This family-owned Mexican restaurant highlights the vibrant flavors of Mexico’s Guadalajara region, from their house salsas using freshly roasted peppers to the house-made tamales. Try the pork tamales stuffed with pork mole ranchero and smothered in a delicious salsa ranchera. El Mirasol A Palm Springs staple, El Mirasol is a family-owned spot known for its authentic Mexican flavors. Here, homemade chicken tamales are offered in combination plates with tacos, enchiladas, or chile relleno. Two locations–one south of downtown Palm Springs and one at Los Arboles Hotel–mean these tasty tamales are never far away. You May Also Like: A little slice of Mexico at Las Casuelas Terraza Celebrating 30 years at the Blue Coyote
Palm Springs Vegan Guide Sun, January 21, 2024 by Randy Garner Palm Springs is full of vegan-friendly restaurants catering to various dietary needs and preferences. Whether you’re looking for a quick bite or a sit-down meal, you’re sure to find something to your liking. Here’s a Palm Springs vegan guide to help you navigate many options. 533 Viet Fusion This Vietnamese restaurant has a separate vegetarian menu that is mostly vegan. Offers choices like pho, salads, and crepe. Azucar @ La Serena Villa This quaint boutique restaurant is located in the beautiful La Serena Villa. Many starters on their menu are vegan, including the shaved brussel sprouts salad, watermelon salad, and cauliflower risotto. They have vegan pasta with sundried tomatoes, kalamata olives, spinach, pesto, and pine nuts for entrees. Their lunch service has even more vegan options, including cauliflower tacos, house-made guacamole, hummus, olives, and pita. Birba Birba is incredibly flexible and caters to all diets. They even offer a zucchini noodle-based pasta and have no problem substituting meats for something else. Menu items include roasted cauliflower, three kale salad, casoncelli di zucca, gnocchi al forno margarita or the verde pizzas. It is located downtown on Palm Canyon across the street from Copley’s. They are only open for dinner. Boozehounds Enjoy the Veganwurst dog with onions, peppers, crispy shallot, veganaise, and cilantro. Or the Thai vegan larb with cabbage, mint, cilantro, and steamed rice. Chef Tanya’s Kitchen Specializing in house-made tempeh and seitan, this is a 100% vegan restaurant and deli. There are many choices here, from vegan sandwiches and tempeh burgers to soups and deli salads. Located off the beaten path at 706 S. Eugene Road, it’s well worth the trip. Copley’s on Palm Canyon Vegan salad options include charred asparagus salad (hold the smoked duck) and a mixed beet salad (switch out the buttermilk dressing). For the main, choose from the sesame seed seared tofu. Ask the server if there are other options, as the menu frequently changes. Del Rey at Villa Royale Tapas bar with a small menu, nearly half of which can be made vegan and is marked as such on the menu. Vegan options include padron peppers; flatbread with mushrooms, red onions, garlic and an herb drizzle; basque asparagus; beet salad; picada salad; and Brussel sprouts with dates and a honey vinaigrette. Note that the restaurant is 21+. Eight4Nine Eight4Nine offers a few clearly marked vegan and gluten-free dishes. The roasted cauliflower steak served with curried cauliflower puree is very popular and delicious. El Patron This Mexican restaurant is centrally located at the corner of Palm Canyon and Tahquitz by the Kimpton Rowan Palm Springs Hotel. They offer vegan tacos and vegan burritos with grilled cauliflower or tofu. Can also accommodate some other dishes to be made vegan friendly on request. Pair it with black beans and traditional Mexican rice. Farm This boutique French Café is centrally located in La Plaza. They offer a vegan sandwich with a veggie patty, avocado, red onions, romaine, tomato, and aioli on multi-grain bread. There is also avocado toast and a vegan wrap. Fuzion Five Fuzion Five has lots to choose from. Vegan pho noodle soup, pad Thai, vegan tofu spring rolls, vegan egg rolls, bun noodle salad, vegetable curry noodles, stir-fried vegetables, tofu lettuce wrap, and fried rice with vegetables or tofu. Grand Central Palm Springs They offer a breakfast bowl for brunch with chocolate quinoa, almonds, coconut, granola, berries, bananas and coconut milk. Or, try the vegetarian burger on brioche. For dinner, start with a small plate like watermelon gazpacho, followed by a market-mixed green salad. Chef’s choices and menus change daily, so ask about vegan options. Guacamoles Spinach or vegetarian taco. Spinach quesadillas (hold the sour cream), vegetarian or spinach burrito, bean tostada topped with rice. Add a salad. Happy Sushi This happy place offers a range of vegan options: spicy garlic edamame, tofu tempura, jalapeno bomb, cucumber salad, and seaweed salad. Hand rolls include avocado, cucumber, and vegetables. Heyday Palm Springs While Heyday is known for their beef smash burger, they also offer a vegan Frisco burger. It is a house-made patty with vegan cheese, caramelized onions, shredded lettuce, and vegan special sauce served on grilled sourdough. Il Giardino Italian Restaurant Start with the antipasti La Caponata with eggplant and a mix of vegetables in a sweet and sour sauce or the La Bruschetta with homemade focaccia bread. For your Insalate Zuppe, enjoy the La Pansanella Toscana salad with vinegar bread, tomato, red onion, cucumber, and basil. For Primi, there’s the classic Capellini Puttanesca with angel hair pasta, tomato sauce, cappers, kalamata olives, and wine. Jake’s Palm Springs Start with the General TSO cauliflower with sweet and spicy sauce. For the entrée, order the spaghetti squash tossed with sautéed zucchini and red onion, topped with marinara, fried eggplant, and basil. John Henry’s Café Enjoy grilled eggplant with olives, tomato, and fresh basil to begin. Enjoy pasta with a pesto or tomato sauce for your main course. Note they close during the summer. La Bonita’s The off a vegan burrito with cabbage, pinto onions, and salsa. You can also order the burrito bowl, taco salad, or tostada without the cheese. Loco Charlie’s Mexican Grill Mexican restaurant offering a vegetarian menu with options that can be made vegan upon request. Rice and bean burrito, vegie fajita, vegie enchilada with rice and whole pinto beans, and a vegetarian soft taco. LuLu California Bistro It has a dedicated vegan menu includes pizza and pasta dishes without cheese, salads, and an Impossible burger. Maracas Mexican Cantina & Grill They have a potato taco, crispy Impossible meat taco, veggie enchilada, burrito, Impossible meat enchilada, and spinach & mushroom enchilada. Minerva’s at Life House Palm Springs The menu is plant-forward, made with fresh ingredients in an inspiring ambiance. Miro’s Restaurant Try Miro’s family recipe croquettes to start and lentil and mushroom Bolognese for your entrée. Monsoon Indian Cuisine North Indian restaurant with several labeled vegan entrees, including dumplings, black lentils, cauliflower, eggplant, mushrooms, and chickpeas. Native Foods This is perfect for a Palm Springs vegan restaurant with a menu that is 100% vegan. The menu includes sandwiches, veggie burgers, bowls, salads, and others. With such dishes as Backyard BBQ, Bowl, The Real Nashville Hot, and Spicy Cauliflower Dippers, you will love this comfort food. Their food is homemade with ingredients often bought locally or brought in from sustainable suppliers, non-GMO, and organic whenever possible. Located in the old section of Smoke Tree Village – 1775 E Palm Canyon Drive, Ste #420. Nature’s Health Food & Café Serves veggie burgers, sandwiches, wraps, rice paper rolls, salads, and other casual fare. The store stocks a variety of natural groceries, including fresh organic produce, bulk staples, vitamins, supplements, herbs, homeopathic remedies, ionized water, ear candles, cruelty-free organic beauty products, and more. Palm Greens Café There are a lot of classic breakfasts that become off-limits when going vegetarian or vegan, but if you’re a vegan visiting Palm Greens Café, you can have your pancakes and eat them too. Scrambled tofu and OE-eggs provide hearty alternatives to egg dishes, such as Huevos Rancheros or scrambled eggs in a breakfast sandwich, and vegan bacon and sausage finish off the meal to perfect satisfaction. It is located in south Palm Springs at the Sun Center. Open for breakfast and lunch, 8 am – 2:30 pm. Pepper’s Thai Palm Springs This small Thai restaurant on North Palm Canyon offers lunch and dinner. Start with veggie potstickers or spring rolls. To follow, they offer several mixed vegetable entrees. Remember the peanut sauce! Rick’s Desert Grill Sue’s Garden Burger (hold the mayo); Vegetarian Jr. Club (hold the cheese); Santa Clara Cuban salad with tomato, avocado, cucumber, and red onions; Penne pasta with house-made tomato basil sauce. Sammy G’s Tuscan Grill Tuscan Italian restaurant with a few labeled vegan items, including a cauliflower ceviche bruschetta, cauliflower crust pizza with Daiya vegan cheese, and fresh tomato or pasta primavera. Spencer’s Restaurant For lunch, try the grilled Portobello mushroom sandwich on toasted focaccia bread or a vegetarian burger (hold the cheese). For dinner, they also have a roasted Portobello mushroom with vegetables in a soy-ginger sauce. Tac/Quila Mexican restaurant with a few dedicated vegan dishes on the menu. Try the veggie enchilada (hold the sour cream). They also have grilled portabello mushrooms with pickled onion and avocado in a flour tortilla (hold the cheese and crema). They also have four vegan salad options: Vega Arco Iris with a mango vinaigrette, black bean with lemon dressing, grilled avocado with cilantro-lime vinaigrette, and jicama and papaya with watermelon serrano vinaigrette. Thai House For this Palm Springs vegan restaurant, start with fried tofu, fresh spring rolls, or a papaya salad. All rice and noodle dishes can be prepared with tofu. There’s also broccoli, eggplant, mixed veggies, and fresh ginger vegetable entrées. Or try the Kung Pao with Tofu for something with a bit more kick. Thai Smile Palm Springs Most options are vegan, with the option to add fried tofu. Located downtown at the corner of Indian Canyon and Tahquitz. Trio Restaurant Small bite vegan options include street corn, spinach & artichoke dip, cauliflower fritters, focaccia with olive tapenade, fries, and marinated olives. Wilma & Frieda’s You can begin with the ginger saki cauliflower nuggets. For dinner, you can choose eggplant portobello veggie tower or grilled portobello steak strips. One of their signature salads is roasted corn & avocado in a cilantro dressing. Workshop Kitchen & Bar Vegan small plate includes beets & citrus, shaved brussels salad with ginger-orange vinaigrette, and curried sweet potato and peanut soup made with coconut milk. Plates include farmer’s market vegetables. Zadie Café at Hilton Palm Springs A hidden gem that brings the vibrant flavors of the Mediterranean to the desert oasis. With its modern and inviting atmosphere, Zadie’s offers a unique dining experience that combines traditional Mediterranean cuisine with a contemporary twist. You May Also Like: A Palm Springs Wellness Getaway Here’s to Wellness at Nature’s Health Food & Café
Palm Springs Gay Wedding Guide Fri, January 12, 2024 by Randy Garner Welcome to the Palm Springs gay wedding guide, where love knows no boundaries and celebrating equality is at the heart of every joyous occasion. Whether you’re a couple planning your dream wedding or a supportive friend or family member looking for inspiration, this guide is here to help you navigate through the journey of creating a memorable and inclusive celebration of love. Love is love, and we believe that every couple deserves a wedding day that reflects their unique story and celebrates their commitment to one another. From intimate ceremonies to grand celebrations, we’ll explore various ideas, tips, and resources to ensure that your wedding truly reflects your love, individuality, and shared vision. Highlighted are LGBTQ+-friendly vendors and wedding professionals who have dedicated themselves to creating a safe, inclusive, and welcoming environment for all couples. You’ll find recommendations for photographers, florists, caterers, and more who understand the importance of honoring diverse love stories. Selecting a Wedding Planner Hire a local professional wedding planner specializing in Palm Springs weddings to ensure a seamless wedding planning process. These well-connected wedding planners have a network of LGBTQ+ friendly vendors, including photographers, florists, caterers, and venues. They can recommend trusted professionals who will make your wedding day memorable. Stacey Jones Event Design: Stacey Jones Event Design is recognized for their elegant and sophisticated event planning services. They have a reputation for curating exquisite events with a timeless and refined ambiance. Stacey Jones Event Design focuses on creating seamless client experiences, ensuring every detail is meticulously executed. Parker Palm Springs Wedding. Credit: Stacy Jones After The Engagement: After The Engagement is a boutique event planning company that offers personalized and intimate event experiences. They pride themselves on bringing their client’s dreams to life, providing a high level of customization and attention to detail. After The Engagement specializes in creating unique and meaningful events that reflect the individuality of their clients. Casa Cody. Credit: After The Engagement Fuego Events: Fuego can combine all the pieces of a same-sex wedding, including catering, music, photography, décor, floral designs, and theme planning. Their event space is a 1955 midcentury landmark located on South Palm Canyon. Artisan Floral Event Décor: Artisan doesn’t just do flowers, they also do lighting, stage, music, décor, and more. They also work with preferred vendors for hair and makeup, photographers, caterers, and bakers. They offer end-to-end event planning and execution services for all aspects of a wedding. Avalon Palm Springs. Credit: Artisan Events Choosing The Right Venue & Vibe Selecting the perfect venue and vibe for a gay wedding is essential to creating a celebration that reflects your unique love story and individuality. Like any wedding, the venue sets the stage for the entire event, but it can hold even greater significance for a same-sex couple. Finding a welcoming and inclusive space that aligns with your vision, values, and desired atmosphere will ensure that your special day truly reflects who you are as a couple. Whether you envision a grand ballroom, an intimate garden, a modern midcentury setting, or a more rustic desert scene, selecting the right venue and vibe for your gay wedding is an opportunity to create a truly memorable and joyous experience that celebrates love in all its forms. Large Resort & Hotels Some of the advantages to large resort weddings is they often offer comprehensive wedding packages that include everything from banquet rooms, catering, decorations, and entertainment. These packages can save you time and effort in planning and organizing various aspects of your wedding. Large resorts can also accommodate a significant number of guests. Large resorts often feature many amenities, such as spas, pools, and salons. This means that both you and your guests can enjoy a variety of leisure options before the wedding, adding an extra dimension of relaxation and entertainment to the overall experience. These recommended large resorts are experienced in hosting weddings and are well-trained in providing excellent service. They can assist you with event coordination, menu selection, and other crucial details, ensuring your wedding day runs smoothly and efficiently. The Parker Palm Springs: The Parker Palm Springs is a chic and luxurious venue that provides a beautiful backdrop for same-sex weddings. Its lush gardens, stylish decor, and sophisticated ambiance offer a romantic atmosphere for couples to exchange vows. The venue also has experienced event coordinators who can cater to the unique needs of same-sex weddings. The Saguaro Palm Springs: Vibrant and colorful, the Saguaro Palm Springs is a trendy venue that appeals to couples looking for a fun and festive atmosphere. Its colorful exterior, modern interiors, and spacious outdoor areas make it a perfect choice for same-sex weddings. The Saguaro also offers flexible event spaces and a dedicated team of professionals to ensure a seamless wedding experience. Ace Hotel & Swim Club: With its retro-cool vibe and laid-back atmosphere, the Ace Hotel & Swim Club is a popular venue for same-sex weddings. This hip and trendy location offers a mix of indoor and outdoor spaces, including a poolside area perfect for cocktail receptions. The venue’s unique aesthetic and relaxed vibe make it a favorite among couples who want a stylish and unconventional wedding experience. Ace Hotel. Credit Ashley Laprade Mid-Size Hotels We consider mid-size properties having more than 5o rooms, but not convention size with large ballrooms. Planning a wedding in a mid-size hotel can be more manageable compared to larger venues. The size allows for smoother coordination with the hotel staff, event planners, and vendors. With fewer logistics to handle, you can have peace of mind knowing that everything will be well-organized. It can also feel more like a grand wedding without the need for the grand wedding spaces. Avalon Palm Springs: Over the years, this 70-room Spanish-style hotel, with 13 private villas, has hosted all manner of nuptials: day and night, simple and extravagant ceremonies, eloping couples, and buyout destination weddings. They will handle your entire wedding, from planning to execution on your wedding day. Plus, they have an excellent on-site spa. Avalon. Credit: Ashley Laprade Small Hotels & Inns Small hotels or inns offer a more intimate setting for weddings. With fewer rooms and event spaces, you can create a cozy atmosphere where you and your guests can truly connect and celebrate together. This allows for a more personal and meaningful experience, as you can interact closely with each attendee. Booking a small hotel or inn for your wedding often grants you exclusive use of the entire property. This means you and your guests can enjoy privacy and seclusion, as there won’t be other unrelated events or guests on-site. Having a venue all to yourselves can enhance the sense of intimacy and create a unique sense of togetherness. Small hotels or inns often provide more flexibility in terms of customization. Since they cater to smaller events, they can easily accommodate your specific preferences and requirements, bringing in your own vendors. From personalized decor and menu options to unique ceremony setups, you have more freedom to tailor the venue to reflect your individual style and vision rather than be required to select from the catering menu at a large resort. Here are some small hotels that cater to same-sex weddings. Amin Casa: This charming gay-owned property was once the home of Gloria Swanson. They offer a glamorous air of romance that promises perfection in every detail. You also have the freedom to work with your own vendors. Alcazar Palm Springs: This centrally located 34-room resort offers a full buyout. They can accommodate up to 125 guests. Cantering is provided by F10 catering, which can be anything from passed hors d’oeuvres to elaborate sit-down dinners. Credit: Justin Critz Casa Cody Palm Springs: This is Palm Springs oldest boutique inn. Casa Cody resides on almost two acres of endless event possibilities. Tucked away on a quiet street yet in the heart of Palm Springs, the property’s private homes, rolling lawns, and dual pools set the stage for beautiful weddings of up to 220 guests. Velvet Rope Hotel: This gay-owned boutique property warmly welcomes wedding parties and offers beautiful views of the San Jacinto Mountains. Each room is unique and they have a lovely on-site lounge with room a DJ. It also includes a baby grand piano. This boutique luxury property is perfect for a buy-out boutique gay wedding. Other Wedding Venues One of the main advantages of choosing an inexpensive small chapel is the cost savings. Small chapels typically have lower rental fees than larger venues, making it a budget-friendly option for couples who want to minimize their wedding expenses. Small chapels often offer all-inclusive wedding packages. These packages typically include essential services such as the ceremony space, officiant, basic decor, and executing all the necessary paperwork. They are a good choice for elopement weddings or small weddings with just a few friends or family. Palm Springs Wedding Chapel: This wedding chapel takes pride in embracing and supporting couples from all walks of life, regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity. Their Rainbow weddings are designed to honor and celebrate the LGBTQ+ community, creating a safe and inclusive space for couples to exchange vows and celebrate their love. Standard Chapel Ceremony for up to 20 guests is $675. Elopement for two is $475. Palm Springs Wedding Caterers When it comes to dining options in Palm Springs, you’ll find a diverse range of restaurants and catering services to satisfy any palate. Many are locally owned and gay-owned. Hiring a locally-owned caterer contributes directly to the local economy. It helps in sustaining and supporting small businesses in your community, which, in turn, creates job opportunities and stimulates economic growth. Locally owned caterers often deeply understand the local culinary scene, including regional specialties and seasonal ingredients. They can incorporate local flavors and dishes into your menu, providing your guests a unique and authentic dining experience. Some local favorites known for their exceptional cuisine and LGBTQ+ inclusivity include: Trio Catering: Offering contemporary American fare focusing on fresh ingredients and creative flavors, Trio is locally owned and gay-owned and popular for rehearsal dinners or intimate wedding receptions. Lulu Catering & Events: Lulu Catering will guide you through all their collections of fanciful and unique décor, exquisite place settings, elegant dishware, colorful linens, and more. Eight4Nine Catering: This locally owned and gay-owned restaurant offers full-service catering for your preferred event space. The restaurant also has lovely event spaces, both indoors and outdoors, with views of the San Jacinto Mountains. Onsite wedding on the 849 outdoor patio. Wedding Cakes & Desserts Over the Rainbow Cupcakes & Desserts: This is a small bakery, and everything is made from scratch. They are popular and very busy, so you’ll need to make arrangements for a custom wedding cake way in advance. If you need something quick, they have lovely, tasty, and beautiful cupcakes often used for weddings. Music & DJs If you’re having a dinner party, you might want to consider offering dancing. Having a DJ at your wedding party can significantly enhance the overall experience for you and your guests. A skilled DJ knows how to create an energetic and fun atmosphere that keeps everyone engaged throughout the night. They have the experience to read the crowd and play the right songs at the right time, ensuring that the dance floor stays packed and the party keeps going. Hiring a professional DJ allows you to relax and enjoy your wedding without worrying about managing the music yourself. DJ Mod Girl: This girl is fun and does many LGBTQ+ events throughout the year. Voted best DJ of the desert, and you’ll discover why she’s the life of the party. Palm Springs Gay Wedding Officiant Joyful Weddings & Events: Specialize in same-sex weddings. Palm Springs Wedding Photographers Ashley Laprade Photography: Experience photographer in Palm Springs who specializes in same-sex weddings, capturing unique moments with contemporary style. Ace Hotel. Credit Ashley Laprade Brady Bates Photography: With years of experience and an eye for detail, Brady captures the joy and emotion of any celebration with his beautiful imagery. He offers a wide range of services, including photography, Super 8, printing, and album design, to provide a complete wedding photography experience. Ryan Horban: Ryan understands weddings can be emotional and sometimes stressful. He will work closely with you to beautifully document your wedding. Kevin & Steven’s elopement. Credit: Ryan Horban Danforth Neal Photography: As a gay-owned business, Todd combines his technical training, art history education, and photojournalistic style to capture the raw authenticity of love beautifully. Ordering Flowers During the initial consultation, communicate your ideas, theme, color palette, and any specific floral requirements you have in mind. Provide as many details as possible to help the florist understand your vision. They may also offer suggestions based on experience, seasonal availability, and design expertise. My Little Flower Shop: This is a locally-owned, gay-owned, renowned wedding florist. Past clients include the Academy Awards, Golden Globe Awards, and Presidential Inaugurations. Hermano Flower Shop: This boutique flower shop is locally owned and gay-owned by Adrian Romero. It is centrally located in the Mojave Flea Market. Please get in touch with him to create custom floral arrangements for your boutique wedding. Cheers to a beautiful LGBTQ+ wedding in this desert paradise!
Frank Sinatra Palm Springs Hangouts: Self-Guided Tour Tue, January 9, 2024 by Randy Garner Following in Frank’s Footsteps Step back in time and immerse yourself in the glamorous world of the legendary Frank Sinatra as you embark on a self-guided tour of enchanting Palm Springs. Get ready to walk in the footsteps of Ol’ Blue Eyes himself as we take you on a captivating journey through the iconic places where Sinatra spent his days and nights, leaving an indelible mark on this desert oasis. From swanky cocktail lounges to stylish resorts, let this serve as your guide to experiencing the magic and allure of Sinatra’s Palm Springs hangouts. Get ready to delve into the golden era of Hollywood and discover the hidden gems that once played host to the man himself. Purple Room – 1900 E Palm Canyon The Purple Room hosted many performers. It opened on September 29, 1960, and was known as a piano bar and fine food restaurant. There were only a few hotels in this part of Palm Springs, including the Ocotillo Lodge, The Tropics, and the Holiday Inn (now Parker). It was considered elegant and expensive compared to many other restaurants in the area. This was one of Frank’s favorite bars in town. Not only did Frank Sinatra dine at the Purple Room, but so did President Eisenhower and Richard Nixon (before he was president). Once, Bing Crosby telephoned for a party of 10, and they had to turn him down. Red Skelton and Bob Hope were two frequent customers. Canyon Country Club Clubhouse – 1100 E Murray Canyon Drive Directions: You can continue to E Palm Canyon and turn left on the corner of Sunrise Way. The Saguaro Hotel will be on your left. Then turn left on S. Toledo Avenue and follow to the end of the road, which will be E. Murray Canyon Drive. Turn right, and the clubhouse will be on your right. 1.7 miles Indian Canyons Golf Resort originally opened its doors as the Canyon Country Club on New Year’s Eve in 1961. Developers had long coveted the 550-acre tract of land in the wind-free south end of Palm Springs that multiple members of the Agua Caliente Band of Cahuilla Indians owned. William Bell, a noted golf course architect, was hired to design two golf courses, one on the north side of Murray Canyon Drive and one on the south. The North Course was built first in conjunction with a $1.5 million stunning mid-century modern clubhouse designed by Donald Wexler. The clubhouse housed dressing rooms for members, a dining room and bar, a golf cart barn, and a pro shop featuring the latest in golf clothing and equipment. To make the opening of Canyon Country Club spectacular, Walt Disney, who had invested in several luxury homes built along the second fairway, donated a fountain that shot water into the sky from a floating lily pad, adding to the spectacular view from the clubhouse. This was the location for the First Annual Frank Sinatra Golf Invitation in the fall of 1963. Some of his friends who joined him included Dean Martin, Bing Crosby, Sammy Davis Jr., and James Garner. The banquet after the tournament was held at the Riviera Hotel. Proceeds went to the Frank Sinatra Foundation, which helps young people. Melvyn’s – 200 W Ramon Road Directions: Continue on W Murray Canyon Drive to S Palm Canyon Drive and turn right. Follow until Baristo and turn Left. It will be on the corner of Baristo and Ramon. 3.3 miles. Melvyn’s is part of the Ingleside Estate, previously known as Ingleside Inn. It’s named after owner Mel Haber, who came from New York and purchased the property in 1975. Frank initially came to Melvyn’s just for drinks with some friends. He sat at the front of the bar but didn’t want to be disturbed by other guests. His girlfriend at the time, Barbara Marx, was always included. One day, a Sinatra employee confided to Mel that Barbara and Frank planned to marry in four weeks at the Annenberg Estate on a Sunday afternoon on July 11, 1976. The following week, Frank and his entourage visited Melvyn’s and, during the course of the evening, asked to see Mel. Frank decided to throw a dinner party at Melvyn’s. Mel immediately realized it was the Saturday night before the wedding. Frank met with Mel to make all the arrangements. June Allison got married at Ingleside Inn, and Rita Hayward came out of a sanitarium and stayed there. Melvyn’s would later attract such luminaries as Lucille Ball, Dinah Shore, Cher, Bob Hope, Debbie Reynolds, Liberace, Liza Minnelli, Gerald Ford, and Goldie Hawn. The list goes on. The Plaza Theatre – 128 South Palm Canyon Directions: Follow Belardo to W Tahquitz Canyon Way right at the Kimpton Rowan Hotel. Turn left to Palm Canyon (one block) and left again. The Theater will be on your left. .6 miles. In June of 1944, Frank performed on Bob Hope’s show that was being aired from the Plaza Theater (original spelling). Lana Turner, Joan Blondell, Groucho Marx, and Claudette Colbert were in town. In September of that same year, Frank would perform at the Plaza Theater every Wednesday night for his weekly broadcast, often with a full band, to a crowded audience. However, Sinatra’s show was announced over the CBS network as coming from the 21st Ferrying Group, Palm Springs Army Airbase. As a benefit for the Palm Springs Wars Memorial fund, a gala premiere for station KCMJ (1340 on your dial), with the Frank Sinatra show originating from the theater stage during the evening’s performance, was presented at the Plaza Theater on Wednesday, February 20, 1946. He was joined by Jack Benny, who made a special appearance. It had the double purpose of inaugurating Palm Springs’ first radio broadcasting station, KCMJ. Credit: Palm Springs Historical Society Don the Beachcomber – 1101 N Palm Canyon Directions: Head south on Palm Canyon, turn left at E. Arenas, and left again at S. Indian Canyon. Follow straight to E. Tachevah Drive and turn left to N. Palm Canyon (one block). It will be on your left. 1.4 miles. Now known as Bootlegger Tiki, it opened in 1951. Frank Sinatra hosted a dinner party in April 1954 at Don the Beachcomber. At his party were Susan Zanuck (daughter of famous film producer and studio executive Darryl Zanuck), Jule Stine (American Songwriter), Judy Garland, and her husband Sid Luft. Darryl passed away in Palm Springs in 1979. Jule would go on to write Broadway musical scores for Gentlemen Prefer Blondes, Peter Pan, Gypsy, and Funny Girl. In November of that same year, he hosted another dinner party for Elizabeth Tayler and her husband at the time, Michael Wilding. Other attendees included Elizabeth’s good friend Montgomery Clift and composer Jimmy Van Heusen. It was a much larger space than it is today. Sammy Cahn and Jimmy Van Heusen wrote many famous hits, including “Love and Marriage” (1955), “To Love and Be Loved,” “Come Fly with Me,” “Only the Lonely,” and “Come Dance with Me.” Many of their compositions became the title songs for Frank Sinatra’s albums of the late 1950s. You would find Frank at one of the last dinners before the Beachcomber would close for the summer in June of 1955, hanging out with Bing Crosby, singer and actor Tony Martin (highest paid Las Vegas performer in 1958), and dancer Cyc Charisse. Riviera Resort & Spa – 1600 N Indian Canyon Directions: Continue north on Palm Canyon, then turn right on Vista Chino, where you will see a 7-Eleven. The Riviera Resort is across the street on the corner. 1.4 miles The Riviera Hotel is an iconic property with a rich history for travelers since its opening in 1959. The hotel underwent a significant transformation in recent years and was rebranded as Margaritaville Palm Springs. The new design still pays homage to the mid-century modern architecture that made the Riviera famous while infusing it with a relaxed and tropical atmosphere inspired by Jimmy Buffett’s Margaritaville lifestyle. Frank Sinatra performed to 700 people at the Riviera Hotel’s Palm Springs Golf Classic Ball in February 1962 to raise money for the Desert Hospital building fund. Others on stage included Bob Hope and Dean Martin. The Annual Palm Springs Police Association Ball moved to the Riviera Ballroom in 1964. Entertainment included Frank Sinatra, Dean Martin, Sammy Davis Jr., Bob Hope, Dinah Shore, Danny Thomas, Andy Williams, Red Skelton, and Gene Autry. Dean Martin, Frank Sinatra, Sammy Davis Jr. In the 1970s, Frank supported the Bob Hope Classic Ball at the Riviera Hotel. Twin Palms Frank Sinatra Estate – 1145 E Via Colusa Directions: Head east on Vista Chino to N. Avenida Caballeros and turn left. Then left again at Via Colusa. The destination will be on your right. You can also see the home from the back on Alejo Road. 1.6 miles It was first reported in the Desert Sun that Frank Sinatra was planning to build a home in Palm Springs in February of 1946. As architect E. Stewart Williams recalls, it all started during the summer of 1947 when “Frank came in with a white sailor hat and an ice cream cone and said, ‘I want that house.’” For Williams, it was his first residential commission. Sinatra initially requested designs for a Georgian-style mansion with a brick façade and columns. He had just made his first million and wanted to celebrate in grand style. However, with renderings of a house composed of long horizontal tines and non-traditional building materials, Williams was able to lure Sinatra away from the idea of a Georgian house towards something more “desert appropriate.” Later, Roger Williams, Stewart’s architectural partner and brother, reflected “We’d have been ruined if we’d been forced to build Georgian in the desert.” Williams’ renderings convinced Sinatra, and he handled over $150,000 for the air-conditioned Desert Modem house. The commission proved problematic from day one. Sinatra demanded that the house be ready for a Christmas party, which left only a few months to design and build the house. Construction proceeded around the clock and at an exorbitant cost, but the house was completed just in time for Sinatra to ring in the New Year. Following Completion The house set the standard for postwar Hollywood glamour and embodied the pinnacle of casual living. It became home to Sinatra and his family and served as a sensational backdrop for celebrity gatherings, passionate romance, violent heartbreak, and the ever-important cocktail hour. Sinatra’s personal valet recalls the early days at Twin Palms when the three Sinatra children bounced around the house, adding life and excitement. However, Sinatra’s family life began to crumble as his public infidelities proved too difficult for his marriage; his tumultuous relationship with his wife, Nancy, ended in 1948 while the couple was living at Twin Palms. Sinatra’s long-time lover and second wife, Ava Gardner, soon replaced Nancy’s presence around the house. Following his romantic scandals, Frank viewed Twin Palms as a place of respite from Hollywood gossip and a safe haven to unwind. His master bedroom, which inhabits its own wing of the house, provided him with much sought-after privacy. The 1951 marriage of Gardner and Sinatra was one of the most fiery and turbulent in Hollywood history, and Twin Palms was the stage for their romantic drama. Gardner wrote in her autobiography, “It was the site of probably the most spectacular fight of our young married life, and honey, don‘t think I don’t know that’s really saying something… Frank’s establishment in Palm Springs, the only house we really could ever call our own, has seen some pretty amazing occurrences.” Sinatra’s Temper was often Unrestrained One of the original bathroom sinks in Twin Palms has a crack in the basin from a champagne bottle that Sinatra hurled at Gardner. During that same episode, Sinatra threw all of Gardner’s possessions out onto the driveway and kicked Gardner and Lana Turner out of the house. Though the house was only accessible to Hollywood’s elite, the rest of the world caught a glimpse of Twin Palms in Joan Crawford’s 1950 film The Damned Don’t Cry. Sinatra apparently repaid a favor he owed by permitting his house to be used in the movie, though he was insistent that only shots of the exterior could be taken. The house received additional exposure when renowned architectural photographer Julius Shulman photographed it. Shulman’s stunning Twin Palms images capture the allure and simplistic grace of Harry Williams, a long-time villager design. However, that same year, Sinatra played a supporting role in the film From Here to Eternity, a role that won him an Oscar for Best Supporting Actor. Following the movie, his career was on the upswing. It is available to rent for various events, including private vacations, corporate events, retreats and functions, private events, and dinner parties. Commercial uses include photo, film, television, magazine, and movie opportunities. Palm Springs High School – 2401 E Baristo Road Directions: Head east on E. Via Colusa toward N. Hermosa Drive and turn right. Go to E. Alejo and turn left. Follow until you come to N. Farrell Drive, turn right, and then turn right again at E. Baristo. You will see the High School and baseball field. 1.6 miles. The Palm Springs High School was often the location for the annual Policeman’s Ball. In February 1950, the musical entertainers included Frank Sinatra, Bob Hope, Al Jolson, Jack Benny, and Jane Russel. Palm Springs Polo Grounds This is the current location of the Palm Springs Baseball field next to the High school. By 1951, there was such a large number of people wanting to attend the Policeman’s Ball they moved it outdoors to the Polo Grounds. Frank continued to be the entertainment with Bob Hope in 1951, and Dinah Shore joined the chorus. While this ends the Frank Sinatra Palm Springs Tour, learn about other places he hung out at that are no longer standing. This helps provide additional understanding how important Palm Springs was to Frank Sinatra. Locations Frank Sinatra Frequented Now Demolished Doll House – 1032 N Palm Canyon Drive The Doll House restaurant was a beloved establishment known for its unique charm and delicious cuisine. This quaint restaurant was housed in a charming dollhouse-like building, capturing the attention of locals and tourists alike. Frank was frequently seen there with friends and his future wife Ava Gardner. Other guests would include Cary Grant, Joan Crawford, Marlene Deitrich, Jimmy Van Heusen, and Edgar Bergen. After Christmas in 1951, Frank and his wife dined with Lana Turner and her husband, Fernando Lamas, who was filming The Merry Widow with Lana. Its original location remains a vacant lot. El Mirador Hotel – 1150 N Indian Canyon The El Mirador Hotel was located at what is now Desert Regional Hospital. The tower that currently exists was part of the original design but is not original due to a fire. He was pictured at the Sweetheart Ball at El Mirador in February of 1956 as a featured singer. Saddle & Sirloin – 394 N Palm Canyon Drive Dave Lyons’ new Saddle and Sirloin opened formally in November of 1948 with scores of friends and visitors congratulating him on his idea of the “new look.” The western atmosphere prevails throughout the restaurant, giving a feeling of comfort and friendliness from the saddle bar stools to the attractive hide-upholstered booths and the entertainment featuring Frank Sinatra with Jimmie Van Heusen. Important guests included Ginger Rogers, Elizabeth Taylor, and Danny Thomas. Chi Chi Club – 217 N Palm Canyon Drive. The Chi Chi Club was located next to the Dunes. It opened in 1936 as the Desert Grill, a trendy café owned by Jack Freeman. Frank sang there during WWII to help raise money for war bonds. He also spent time there with his good friend Jimmy Van Heusen. The Starlight Room at the Chi Chi Club. The Racquet Club – 2743 N Indian Canyon Frank often enjoyed dinner and cocktails at The Racquet Club. Remnants of it remain on Indian Canyon. He was also a big fundraiser for many organizations. In 1947, he sang at the Racquet Club for the Welfare and Friendly Aid Dinner to raise money for the Youth Center. Bob Hope and Rudy Vallee would join him. He stared with Donna Reed in “From Here to Eternity” and was captured together at the Racquet Club in 1954. Other friends he would meet at the Racquet Club included Judy Holliday and Joan Collins. Ruby’s Dunes – 238 N Palm Canyon Drive Many Palm Springs restaurants have a history that spans decades. Ruby’s Dunes became one of the most famous celebrity hangouts. The restaurant started out as Harry’s Pool Hall and Café in 1929, owned by Harry and Josephine Mutascio. In 1942, Irwin “Ruby” Rubinstein and Al Wertheimer purchased a sizable interest in the restaurant, which later became Ruby’s Dunes. Prior to his partnership with Wertheimer, “Ruby” conducted the orchestra and his wife Connie sang at the Wertheimer’s Dunes Casino until it burned down. After Wertheimer’s conviction for tax evasion in 1942, Ruby and Connie took over the ownership of Ruby’s Dunes. Rubinstein credited Frank Sinatra for the success of his restaurant, saying Ol’ Blue Eyes always encouraged his celebrity friends to join him for dinner and drinks. Joining Frank Sinatra on his holiday trip to Palm Springs were an unidentified man (from left), Jimmy Van Heusen, and Ruby Rubenstein at the opening of Ruby’s Dunes. The Stables In 1929, Trav Rogers arrived in Palm Springs with a string of 15 horses. He built the 20-acre Rogers Ranch located on Chia Road in 1938, now a condo neighborhood by Sunrise and Vista Chino (1445 N. Sunrise Way). Known as Rogers Ranch, it served great steak dinners and had a large bar. Almost any evening, you would find villagers mingling with wranglers. A trio of country-style musicians provided the music. They had spare ribs, steaks, and a famous hot bean salad. Western wear was the order of the day. Charlie Morrison purchased The Stables in 1947. He was a noted Southern California restaurateur of Macombo fame from Hollywood. He changed the name, and Frank Sinatra, Rudy Vallee, and Jimmy Durante performed at the popular village spot. In 1948, Frank entertained at The Stables for one of the largest charity balls ever given in the area to benefit the Jewish Community Center House. You May Also Like: Palm Springs Confidential: A Hollywood Pedigree Hollywood Slept Here
Architects Who Built Palm Springs: Hugh Kaptur Thu, January 4, 2024 by Randy Garner Hugh Kaptur was born in Detroit and worked for a time in General Motors’ styling division. His father had been a designer engineer at Packard and GM. He studied architectural engineering at the Lawrence Institute of Technology in Detroit before joining the US Marine Corps in 1951. Hugh Kaptur arrived in Palm Springs in 1954 and relocated here in 1956. Kaptur worked briefly for Wexler & Harrison but was laid off during the 1957 recession. Business picked up in 1958 when homebuilders began developing Palm Springs on a large scale, and Kaptur found himself designing post-and-beam houses. In 1963, he partnered with licensed architect Robert Ricciardi to get the Palm Springs Fire Station #3 commission. Kaptur did not receive his California architecture license until 1966. After that partnership broke up in 1965, he formed a company with Larry Lapham, the son of noted architect Howard Lapham, which lasted ten years. After a collaboration with James Cioffi, he semi-retired in 1992. His original post-and-beam style can be found in many Palm Springs homes. He aimed to reflect a quiet elegance by keeping good proportions. His later work, and most of his work, was in an organic modern style inspired by Arizona’s desert architecture. His buildings often feature thick walls, deeply inset windows, and wide overhangs that protect them from absorbing the intense desert heat. With more than 200 built projects in the area- residential, commercial, and institutional- he played a significant role in the architectural development of Palm Springs. Hugh Kaptur received a Palm Star on the Palm Springs Walk of Stars in 2014 and has been honored in many events during Modernism Week. Key Works in Palm Springs Impala Lodge: 1958, 555 East San Lorenzo Road This was Hugh Kaptur’s first project, and it is now the Triangle Inn. The luxurious 9-unit building featured a lobby and family room framed in plate glass and steel, reaching a height of 15 feet. Arthur Boyer Residence: 1959, 984 North Rose Avenue A 1,600 sq. ft. house with 3 bedrooms and 2 bathrooms in the Vista Las Palmas neighborhood. Hugh Kaptur Residence: 1958, 1897 East Belding Drive Kaptur built a 1,597-square-foot home with 4 bedrooms and 2 bathrooms in the Sunrise Park neighborhood. William Cody built his home a short walk away. The William Burgess Residence: 1958, 550 Palisades Drive. This was designed by Hugh Kaptur and William Burgess in 1957. It is referred to as the bougainvillea house because of the surrounding bougainvillea. This 2,932 square foot home sits on 1 acre. It has 4 bedrooms and 2 baths. McCauley Residence: 1958, 1366 S. Calle Rolph. Located in the Deepwell Estates neighborhood, this 2,136-square-foot home had 3 bedrooms and 4 bathrooms. Bahama Hotel & Apartments: 1959, 2323 N. Palm Canyon Drive. This opened as a two-story, 30-room hotel with air conditioning and television for all rooms. The owner was the aunt of Kaptur’s wife at the time, Rosemarie. This is now The Cole Hotel. Desert Park Estates: 1958 Tom Sills and the Ranch Construction Company developed them. The houses in this development had 5 model designs: Saddle, Sombrero, Spur, Lariat, and Prairie. Earl Strebe Spec Residence I: 1959, 1951 South Camino Monte This 1,937 square foot home has 3 bedrooms and 3 bathrooms. It is located in The Mesa neighborhood. It is one of the finest examples of modern hillside architecture. Earl Strebe was the owner of the first local theaters in Palm Springs. He was the brother of George Strebe, who opened The Doll House (1032 N. Palm Canyon, demolished) restaurant. This has been remodeled and is a vacation rental called On The Rocks. It has 3 bedrooms, 4 baths and is 2,684 square feet. Earl Strebe Spec Residence II: 1959, 1935 South Camino Monte This is a 1,500 square foot home with 2 bedrooms and 2 bathrooms. Pete Siva Residence: 1959, 660 Palisades Drive Simplicity is part of the feat. What could have been a showpiece on a showy strip of land beside the San Jacinto Mountains, Kaptur scaled modestly. With glass sides, the post-and-beam home seems to disappear, save for the orange sunshades Albert Frey added when he lived next door. A 3,000-square-foot flagstone terrace hugs the mountain and wraps around the house, creating opportunities for patio dining and view-gazing over the valley. Ralph Breeden Residence: 1959, 2995 N. Chuperosa Road This modest 1,396-square-foot home has 3 bedrooms and 2 bathrooms and is in the Desert Part Estates neighborhood. It was featured during Modernism Week by Atomic Ranch magazine. It was fully renovated in 2018 while preserving the context of the original architecture. Werner Hogback Residence: 1960, 1577 Calle Marcus This home is located in the Deepwell Estates neighborhood. Hogback was a local developer. It is 2,093 square feet with 3 bedrooms and 3.5 bathrooms. The house is a study of Hugh Kaptur’s design: masonry, exposed beams, walls of glass, floating rooflines, geometric angles, and expansive interior spaces. It has been lovingly restored and maintained, and Hugh Kaptur approved it. Larry Gee Residence: 1961, 2302 West Nicola Road This is a 1,444-square-foot home with 3 bedrooms and 2 bathrooms. It is located in the Desert Park Estates neighborhood. Richard Gillian Residence: 1961, 2755 Verona Road A 2,040 square foot home with 4 bedrooms and 2.5 baths. It was featured in the 2018 Palm Springs Modernism Week Home Tour. Noel Gillette Residence II: 1963, 1033 East Via Colusa This large 6,083-square-foot home boasts 5 bedrooms and 4 baths. It sits on .83 acres and is located in The Movie Colony, close to the Twin Palms Frank Sinatra Estate. Palm Springs Fire Station #3 – 1963, 590 E. Racquet Club Road. Partnering briefly with architect Robert Ricciardi. Steve McQueen Residence: 1964, 2203 Southridge Drive The Broadway song publisher Edwin Morris originally owned this. It was a sizeable speculative house built in the Southridge subdivision. Kaptur added a carport and covered walkway, among other changes. It was sold to Steve McQueen in 1969, and he had it until his death in 1980. It is 4,493 square feet with 4 bedrooms and 5 bathrooms. Neighbors were Bob Hope and William Holden. The exterior is a joining of two glass boxes framed in steel, while walls of glass windows open up the space and provide spectacular views of the desert valley, the surrounding mountains, and the city’s lights. The interior has cypress paneling, a floating staircase, and a three-stall carport. Thomas Griffin Residence: 1964, 521 W. Via Lola This is a large 5,922-square-foot home with 5 bedrooms and 6 baths in the Old Las Palmas neighborhood. It sits on 1/2 acre of land. The home’s focus is its spectacular pool/spa and sundecks with mountain views, accessed from every principal room. Casa Blanca Motor Hotel: 1967, 1342 South Palm Canyon Drive Now, Musicland Hotel has 43 guest rooms. Tahquitz Creek Golf Resort Clubhouse: 1967, 1885 Golf Club Drive. It is considered a Pueblo-inspired modernist architecture style. The shape is similar to the Pearl Harbor Memorial. The course was originally opened on October 18, 1959. The clubhouse was dedicated on November 2, 1967. Large beams set at angles give the restaurant roof the curve of a golfer’s swing. At the top, clerestory windows flood the interior with light. A breezeway roof connects the restaurant to the pro shop. It, too, has windows open to the sky to let the desert light in but still provide plenty of shade. “Since the clubhouse was in the direct flight path of airliners landing in Palm Springs, the roof was as important to me during the design as the elevations. I wanted it to look clean and efficient.” – Hugh M. Kaptur. Palm Springs Fire Station #4: 1971, 1300 S La Verne Way Platt and Welmas Condominiums: 1973. They are now called the Casa Sonora Condominiums, the 60-unit complex is located by the Saguaro Hotel on leased land. Smoke Tree Racquet Club: 1793 – 1975, 1650 E. Palm Canyon A 128-unit condo community near Smoke Tree Ranch. The William Holden House: 1977, 2433 Southridge Drive This Southridge home combined a concrete foundation, creating a building platform on a steep site, with a wood post and beam structure. Holden lived there until his death in 1981. Fantastic architectural detail includes soaring ceilings, floor-to-ceiling windows, oversized formal spaces, and a lavish Primary suite with a dual-sided fireplace and extraordinary walk-in closet/dressing room. The vast decking and verandas provide the most exhilarating views of Palm Springs and beyond. This large 6,657 square foot home has 5 bedrooms and 6 baths. It sits on 3.71 acres. Canyon East and West Estates Condominiums: 1978 Palm Villas: 1979 An 88-condo-unit community near Cielo Road. Tahquitz Plaza: 1974 – 1977, 600 – 700 East Tahquitz Canyon Way The firm Kaptur-Lapham designed this in two stages, in 1974 and Hugh Kaptur in 1977. It is now a Class 1 Historic Site and a thorough refresh was performed involving Kaptur himself. It is an important and largely intact example of a desert modernist commercial structure. Al Anderson Residence: 1978, 899 E. Granvia Valmonte Sited on two lots purchased from Bob and Dolores Hope in the heart of the Movie Colony and roughly .62 of an acre. This home blends the classic California Ranch with the dynamic details of post and beam architecture. The shaker shingle roof is juxtaposed against spider legs, and the interior features vaulted ceilings with wood tongue and groove. Most of the original details are intact, and the home features 3 bedrooms in the main house and a separate casita offering fantastic separation of space. Rancho El Mirador Condominiums: 1983, 291 E Mel Avenue It was built on the grounds of the original El Mirador Hotel, now Desert Regional Hospital. 61 condo units. The Deauville Condominiums: 1985, East Amado Road and El Segundo It is located adjacent to the Agua Caliente Casino. It includes 168 units. Villa Caballeros Condos: 1985, 255 S Avenida Caballeros This is a 59-unit gated complex with a swimming pool, spa, tennis court, indoor racquetball court, and community room. Villa Serena Apartments: 1980, 900 East Saturnino Road This was originally an adults-only complex with one to three bedrooms. While many articles note it was built in 1986, the Desert Sun advertised these units in 1980, and permits were issued in 1979. Paul Selzer House: 1988, 38727 Maracaibo Circle West Paul was an environmental lawyer. He and his wife met with Kaptur and asked him to design a Mediterranean-French Provincial style home featuring stucco and tile. The staggered pyramidal roof line with twin pyramids, clad with lightweight concrete roof tiles, defines the structure while offering stunning interior spaces. Each pyramid has functional skylights that open, allowing the air to vortex up through the house, mimicking the airflow of a fireplace. Sculptured tapering chimneys add a vertical statement to the roof line that calls to discerning enthusiasts. A third smaller open-beamed pyramid is placed over the entry, setting the tone as you enter the home. This spacious 4,824 square foot home has 4 bedrooms and 5 baths. It’s located off Bogert Trail in south Palm Springs. Villa Boutique Apartment Homes: 2002, 1700 South Araby Drive Located by Araby Cove. Kaptur Court: 2016, 262 West Vista Chino These are three single-family homes designed by Kaptur at age 85. He took his 1950 designs and updated them. It features post & beam construction and a butterfly roofline. Sitting on a large 1/3 acre lot in the exclusive neighborhood of Little Tuscany on fee simple land, Kaptur Court features just under 2,200 SF, 3 Bedroom, 3 Bath, open living room, dining room, and social gourmet kitchen showcasing custom cabinetry, and quartz countertops. Other classic elements are high-angled wood beamed ceilings, clerestory windows, Italian terrazzo flooring, and a spacious breakfast nook with mountain and pool views. The wall and gated private entertainer yard features a 40′ lap pool. Kaptur received little credit in the early years. Most of the Palm Springs architects didn’t. “The time of Bill Cody and myself and Clark, Frey & Chambers and Williams, Williams & Williams, architects weren’t much appreciated. We did buildings, people needed us, you know, but it wasn’t like doctors or lawyers — we were like used car salesmen,” Kaptur said. “We never got much recognition and never in our wildest dreams would be get recognition. But back about 15, 20 years ago, the gay community really came and took an interest in the history. values. of architecture, and that’s what started it.” You May Also Like: Mid-Century Architecture Self-Guided Tour Palm Springs Architects & Developers Architects Who Built Palm Springs: Dan Palmer & William Krisel
Book A Midcentury Modern Home with ACME House Company Wed, January 3, 2024 by Randy Garner Sponsored ACME House Company manages luxury vacation rental homes and condos in Palm Springs and the surrounding desert cities. As part of their extensive collection of homes of different sizes and styles, booking a midcentury ACME modern home offers unique experiences only found in Palm Springs, which has helped define the city’s vibe. Why Midcentury Modern Design? The design aesthetic is characterized by simplicity, form, and functionality. It incorporates perspectives and materials with a minimalist approach by visionary architects of the era. Defined by angular details, flat roofs, and glass walls seamlessly blending indoor and outdoor spaces, this imaginative architectural style celebrated the Palm Springs lifestyle. It solidified a definitive era of innovation and design. With the largest collections of preserved midcentury modern buildings, nowhere is this style more revered and celebrated than in Palm Springs. All of the glamour and sophistication of yesteryear are still alive today, yet with modern touches and amenities. Experience it yourself by booking a midcentury ACME House Company home. Indulge your passion for design in every room of these remarkable vacation rentals. Immerse yourself in carefully curated vintage furniture, authentic period décor, and spectacular artwork that reflects the era’s innovative spirit. Lose yourself in the simplicity of clean geometric lines, floor-to-ceiling windows that blur the lines between indoors and outdoors, and iconic furnishings that remain as relevant today as they were decades ago. Every detail has been meticulously chosen to create an atmosphere of timeless elegance. Here are some recommended properties: West Elm House 1 Built by Alexander Construction Company, West Elm House 1 was lovingly restored by West Elm, a branch of Williams-Sonoma. Organic, handcrafted materials are hallmarks of this mid-century transformation, featuring an outdoor living pavilion, five fire features, a gas barbecue, and poolside chaise lounges. Located in the Little Beverly Hills neighborhood, a picturesque walkable community bordered by two golf courses, West Elm House 1 offers the perfect ending to the perfect day in Palm Springs. West Elm House 2019 With proximity to the Palm Springs Art Museum and downtown Palm Springs, location isn’t the only reason West Elm House 2019 is such a standout. Located in the El Mirador neighborhood of Palm Springs, this stunning retreat features sublime postcard-worthy outdoor spaces flanked by palm trees with a designer concept pool, an integrated waterfall spa, and a fire pit. Impeccable design, stunning architecture, and iconic furnishings elevate this glamorous estate, showcasing a phenomenal art collection. A stay at West Elm House 2019 elevates any vacation to another level. Glass and Steel House Hailed for its contemporary conceptual design, Glass and Steel House effortlessly merges indoor and outdoor living, highlighting incredible mountain vistas and breathtaking sunsets. This desert marvel is nothing short of inspiring, with free-flowing spaces, mid-century-inspired art and décor, and an elegant environment ideal for entertaining. A heated in-ground pool, outdoor dining areas, a barbecue, and poolside seating make the home’s exterior a popular gathering spot. One stay in this midcentury ACME Glass and Steel House will easily see you time and time back again. Mostero House Mostero House transcends the vacationing experience, effortlessly integrating architecture, design, and art and offering refined and understated luxury. A generous floor plan features plush interiors, polished concrete and terrazzo floors, and a carefully curated art collection, creating an environment of modern sophistication. Located in Old Las Palmas on an oversized corner lot, a stay at Mostero House puts you within walking distance of the Palm Springs Uptown Design District and world-famous Palm Canyon Drive. Mellow Yellow Butterfly Featuring a saltwater pool, a fire pit lounge, an outdoor kitchen, and a covered dining pavilion, the Mellow Yellow Butterfly is the perfect place to host a party. Interiors in this beautifully remodeled mid-century home are just as sensational, with clean lines, an open-concept floor plan, and floor-to-ceiling windows. Modern conveniences add to the charm of this classic Alexander Butterfly home in Racquet Club Estates, exuding luxury in the best possible way. We highly recommend adding Mellow Yellow Butterfly to your Palm Springs vacation favorites list. Belding Bliss Rainbow hues and pops of color give Belding Bliss an unmistakable swanky Palm Springs vibe as modernist designer Christopher Kennedy imagined. Designer wallpaper in the bedrooms, a remodeled kitchen and bathrooms, and upgrades throughout make interiors Instagram-worthy, while exterior features draw guests to the heart of the home. A private yard with a saltwater pool, a tanning deck and spa, and outdoor living pavilions are just a few reasons to spend most of any visit outdoors. Located in Sunrise Par, midcentury ACME Belding Bliss promises an unforgettable Palm Springs getaway. No Regrets When You Stay With ACME Escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life in your own private outdoor sanctuary. Step outside onto the expansive patio and breathe in the fresh desert air, surrounded by lush gardens and towering palm trees. Lounge by the sparkling pool, soak in the hot tub or gather around the fire pit as you bask in the serenity that only Palm Springs can offer. The midcentury modern vacation rental seamlessly blends indoor and outdoor living, allowing you to embrace the quintessential Palm Springs lifestyle. Of course, these are just a few of the impeccably maintained, centrally located, midcentury modern retreats offered in the Palm Springs area. Feel free to browse their carefully curated portfolio of equally stunning homes guaranteed to make your stay at Palm Springs feel like Modernism Week any time of the year.
10 Popular Palm Springs Hikes Wed, January 3, 2024 by Randy Garner Whether you’re seeking a leisurely stroll or a challenging trek, Palm Springs offers amazing hikes and views, all within minutes of downtown. And even some just steps from the Downtown Park and Palm Springs Art Museum. From rugged mountain peaks to serene desert landscapes, each trail promises a unique experience that will leave you in awe. Let’s start with a popular Palm Springs hike at the highest point, the San Jacinto Peak. San Jacinto Peak in Mount San Jacinto State Park Hard 10 miles out and back. Elevation Gain: 2,578 No dogs Fee Getting There Begin your hiking adventure by purchasing tickets and taking the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway up to the Mountain Station at 8,516 feet. This is where you will begin your hike, and also one of the trills of this adventure. Obtain a Wilderness Permit Before you start your hike, obtain a wilderness permit, which you can get at the Long Valley Ranger Station near the Mountain Station. This permit is required for all hikers planning to enter the San Jacinto Wilderness and is free. Fill out the permit, drop the blue copy in the box, and keep the white copy. Return the white copy on your return. Description As you set out on your hike, carry essential gear such as plenty of water, snacks, sunscreen, a hat, sturdy hiking shoes, and layered clothing. The temperatures can vary significantly, usually about 30 degrees cooler, so be prepared for changing weather conditions. San Jacinto Peak stands at an elevation of 10,834 feet, so it’s important to pace yourself and take breaks as needed. Altitude sickness can concern some hikers, so listen to your body and acclimatize accordingly. The trail is very well signed, but be sure to pay attention as there are other trails. You will wonder through some magnificent boulder formation. When you reach the Wellman Divide junction, keep north. On a clear day, you will have a view of the Salton Sea. As you approach the peak the trail turns into a boulder formation. Soon you will see the refuge hut built in 1933 that is considered the highest building in Southern California. Feel free to check it out and leave extra supplies you might have. Once you reach San Jacinto Peak, take a moment to soak in the breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding mountains, desert landscape, and sometimes even the Salton Sea. It’s an enriching experience and the reason this makes the list of one of the most popular Palm Springs hikes. After enjoying your time at the peak, begin your descent using the same trail you took up. Remember to take your time and carefully navigate any steep sections or loose terrain. Once you’re back at the Mountain Station, take advantage of the amenities available, such as the Peaks Restaurant or the various observation decks. It’s a great way to relax and reflect on your hiking adventure. Remember, hiking in a wilderness area requires preparation and respect for nature. Always follow Leave No Trace principles, stay on designated trails, and be mindful of the environment. Desert View Trail at Mount San Jacinto State Park Easy 2-mile loop Elevation Gain: 334 feet No dogs Kid Friendly Fee Getting There: Begin your hiking adventure by purchasing tickets and taking the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway up to the Mountain Station at 8,516 feet. It is a quick 10-mintue ride up the mountain. Description: Located at the top of the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway, the park has plenty of trails like the Round Valley Loop and paths up to the summit for longer hikes. The Desert View Trail is a shorter walk with only 334 feet of total elevation gain, making it ideal for families and those with less ambitious hiking plans. Plus, this hike offers incredible scenic views. It’s easy to find. Once you’ve left the Mountain Station and descended the paved walkway, the trailhead for the Desert View Trail will be on your left. The trail is a quick 1.5 miles that leads through five viewpoints. Each has a different orientation, so each is worth a quick stop. Best of all, this is a loop, so you’ll end up at the base of the paved path where you can decide to continue hiking on another trail or head up to the Mountain Station and have some lunch. Credit: Sam Miller Tahquitz Canyon Loop Easy 2-mile loop. Elevation Gain: 324 No dogs Kid Friendly Fee Getting There Head west on Mesquite, and it will take you to the Aqua Caliente Tahquitz Visitor Center at 500 W. Mesquite Avenue. There is free parking. Tickets Tahquitz Canyon is on the reservation of the Agua Caliente Band of Cahuilla Indians. You can purchase your $12.50 ticket at the Visitor Center. The fee helps protect and preserve the land and limits the opportunity for careless damage. The price also includes a ranger led interpretive hike. You can also pick up a map. Admission/Hours Trail Highlights One of the highlights of this hike is the breathtaking 50-foot tall Tahquitz Falls. The waterfall cascades down the rocks during the rainy season, creating a spectacular sight. Remember to bring your camera to capture this natural wonder. Tahquitz Canyon holds significant cultural importance to the Agua Caliente Band of Cahuilla Indians. As you hike, you’ll find signs sharing information about Native American history and heritage. Please respect these cultural landmarks and leave no trace behind. Throughout the trail, you’ll discover several viewpoints offering panoramic vistas of Palm Springs and the surrounding Coachella Valley. Take your time to soak in the awe-inspiring scenery and marvel at the beauty of nature. There are also a couple of water crossings that have nice bridges built across them. The paths are well maintained. Begin your hike early in the morning to beat the heat and crowds. This will allow you to enjoy the tranquility and serenity of the canyon fully. As you embark on the Tahquitz Canyon Loop hiking adventure, savor every step and embrace the beauty surrounding you. Take your time, enjoy the views, and create memories that will last a lifetime. You will understand why this one of the most popular hikes in Palm Springs. Palm Springs Art Museum and North Lykken Trail Hard 4.3 miles out and back Elevation Gain: 1,745 feet No dogs No shade Getting There The trail begins at the parking lot north of the Palm Springs Art Museum. There is free parking across the street. Description Carl Lykken was a Palm Springs pioneer and owned the first retail store in Palm Springs. He was very involved with the city and enjoyed the outdoors. It was his initial efforts that created some of the first official hiking trails in Palm Springs. The first section of the trail that leaves the Museum travels through private property but is well-marked. When passing through private property easements and right-of-ways, staying on the path and respecting posted guidance is especially important. Local officials and private landowners partner to provide public access to this area. Staying on the route while on personal property ensures that agreements between local officials and the landowner are upheld and that this trail remains open to the public in the future. As you ascend the trail, you’ll be rewarded with panoramic vistas of Palm Springs, the San Jacinto Mountains, and the surrounding desert landscape. Be sure to bring a camera to capture the breathtaking scenery. Along the trail, keep an eye out for native plants and wildlife. You may spot desert wildflowers, cacti, lizards, and possibly even bighorn sheep. Remember to admire these creatures from a distance and respect their natural habitat. It’s important to practice responsible hiking while on the North Lykken Trail. Stay on designated paths, pack out trash, and be mindful of other hikers. Also, be aware of the desert climate and take necessary precautions to stay hydrated and protect yourself from the sun. The trailhead ends on Ramon Road, near the intersection with Belardo Road. Conversely, you can begin your hike here. Andreas Canyon Easy 1-mile loop Elevation gain: 177 feet. No dogs Kid Friendly Fee Getting There Andreas Canyon is located in the Indian Canyons, the reservation of the Agua Caliente Band of Cahuilla Indians. Purchase your entry at the entrance located at 38520 S. Palm Canyon. The entrance to Andreas Canyon will be your first right after you enter the reservation. Follow the road to the parking lot. Description This picturesque one-mile loop trail offers hikers a chance to immerse themselves in the beauty of nature and experience the unique desert oasis that is Andreas Canyon. Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or just starting your outdoor adventures, this trail is perfect for all skill levels. The trail begins at the Andreas Canyon parking lot, which has ample parking and restroom facilities. Please bring a hat, sunscreen, and comfortable clothing that works best for hiking in the desert. As you start your journey, you’ll be greeted by towering palm trees and vibrant greenery lining both sides of the trail. The contrast between the lush vegetation and the barren desert landscape is truly awe-inspiring. Take a moment to appreciate this oasis in the middle of the arid surroundings. As you meander along the trail, the soothing sound of rushing water will accompany you. Andreas Creek flows alongside the path, providing a peaceful ambiance and attracting various bird species. Keep your eyes peeled for hummingbirds, wrens, and other desert birds that call this place home. Be sure to stop and view the many Andreas Canyon Rock homes and historic structures owned by club members and can only be sold in the club. This stone building serves as a reminder of the Native American presence in the area and adds an extra layer of cultural significance to your hike. The trail continues with several bridges crossing the creek, offering breathtaking views of the crystal-clear water below. Remember to bring your camera or smartphone to capture the beauty of the canyon and its unique rock formations. The Andreas Canyon one-mile loop is considered an easy hike, making it suitable for families with children, casual hikers, and those looking for a peaceful stroll in nature. The well-maintained trail is primarily flat, with slight inclines and uneven surfaces. However, please always watch your step carefully to avoid potential hazards. The Andreas Canyon one-mile loop in Indian Canyons offers a serene and visually stunning hiking experience. From the lush palm trees to the tranquil creek, this trail showcases the unique beauty of the desert oasis. So, lace up your hiking boots, embrace the wonders of nature, and embark on a memorable adventure through Andreas Canyon. Murray Canyon Trail to Seven Sisters Falls Moderate 3.7 miles out and back Elevation Gain: 538 feet No dogs Kid Friendly Getting There: Murray Canyon is located in the Indian Canyons, the reservation of the Agua Caliente Band of Cahuilla Indians. Purchase your ticket at the entrance located at 38520 S. Palm Canyon. The entrance to Murray Canyon is via Andreas Canyon. Take the first right after you enter the reservation. Follow the road to the parking lot. You will be provided a map as you enter Indian Canyons. Description: As you start your hike, take a moment to appreciate the natural beauty surrounding you. The trail is well-maintained and offers a mix of shade and sun, making it ideal for hikers of all skill levels. As you go along the trail, you’ll be greeted by magnificent desert landscapes, towering palm trees, and occasional glimpses of wildlife. Please keep your eyes on birds and lizards. After about 2 miles of hiking, you’ll reach the hike’s highlight – Seven Falls. This series of cascading waterfalls is a true natural wonder and provides a refreshing oasis in the desert. Take some time to relax and soak in the beauty of the falls. You can even take a dip in one of the pools. If you’re feeling adventurous and want to explore further, you can continue beyond Seven Falls to discover more of Indian Canyons. Several additional trails offer different levels of difficulty and scenery. Just remember to plan accordingly and be mindful of your energy levels. Credit Casey Schreiner When hiking back to the starting point, be cautious and watch your step, especially on rocky areas and uneven terrain. Picking yourself and taking breaks when needed is always a good idea. During Winter and Spring, there are many stream crossings and water in the falls, so be prepared to get wet! Sandals or water shoes are recommended. The Murray Canyon Trail to Seven Falls in Indian Canyons is a truly unforgettable experience. Soak in the beauty, take your time, and enjoy every moment of this remarkable hike. Stay safe, and have a fantastic adventure. South Lykken Trail Moderate 8.9 miles out and back Elevation Gain: 2,208 feet No dogs Getting There Head west on Mesquite, and it will take you to the Aqua Caliente Tahquitz Visitor Center at 500 W. Mesquite Avenue. The trailhead is just at the curve of Mesquite to the parking lot. You should be able to find parking along Mesquite. The trail ends on South Palm Canyon just south of Murray Canyon Drive. In the map above, the green map is the Tahquitz Canyon Loop hike and the blue is the South Lykken Trail. Description Many consider this to be one of the best trails in Palm Springs. As you begin your ascent, be prepared to encounter panoramic vistas at every turn. The South Lykken Trail treats hikers to sweeping views of Palm Springs, the desert oasis, and the surrounding mountain ranges. Keep an eye out for unique rock formations and vibrant wildflowers that dot the terrain, adding bursts of color to the desert’s natural palette. While the South Lykken Trail is not recommended for beginners, it offers a rewarding challenge for experienced hikers. The trail features steep inclines and rocky sections, demanding physical stamina and mental focus. Wearing sturdy footwear and bringing plenty of water to stay hydrated throughout your journey is essential. Credit: Timothy State One of the most exciting aspects of hiking the South Lykken Trail is the opportunity to spot diverse wildlife. Keep your eyes peeled for desert species such as bighorn sheep, roadrunners, and even the occasional coyote. Remember to maintain a respectful distance and observe these creatures in their natural habitat. Credit: Rob Bignell While the trail is accessible year-round, it’s best to tackle the South Lykken Trail during the cooler months, typically between October and April. The desert heat can be intense, so plan your hike early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid the hottest parts of the day. Remember to wear sunscreen and a hat to protect yourself from the sun. Credit: Timothy StateMost of the hike follows South Palm Canyon Drive on the right as you head south. The above view is of Indian Canyons in the distance. Museum Trail Hard 1.6 miles out and back Elevation Gain: 833 feet No Shade Getting There The trail begins at the parking lot north of the Palm Springs Art Museum, thus the trail name. There is free public parking across the street. Please don’t use the Art Museum parking lot. This is also the entry for the North Lykken Trail, but it heads in a different direction. Description You can watch for various highlights as you make your way along the Museum Trail. The trail winds through a picturesque desert landscape, showcasing native flora and fauna. You’ll also encounter interpretive signs providing interesting information about the local ecosystem and wildlife. The trail basically goes straight up the spine of the mountain to a picnic bench vista points. One of the trail’s highlights is the Vista Point, located about halfway through the hike. This scenic overlook offers panoramic views of the Coachella Valley, Palm Springs, and the surrounding mountains. Take a moment to soak in the breathtaking vistas and capture some fantastic photos. While exploring the Museum Trail, staying on the designated path is essential. This helps preserve the delicate desert environment and ensures everyone’s safety. Be cautious of cacti and other desert plants along the way, and be mindful of any wildlife you may encounter. Always prioritize safety while hiking. Tell someone about your plans, bring a fully charged phone, and consider walking in a group. Be aware of your surroundings, follow any posted trail rules, and be prepared for changes in weather conditions. Victor Loop Moderate 3 mile loop Elevation Gain: 365 feet No dogs Fee Getting There Victor Loop is part of Palm Canyon, located in the Indian Canyons, the reservation of the Agua Caliente Band of Cahuilla Indians. Purchase your entry at the entrance toll gate located at 38520 S. Palm Canyon. Follow the road south and you will go between two boulders and head up a hill to the Trading Post where you can park. Description This trail is one of the most scenic trails in the Indian Canyons and why it’s one of the most popular Palm Springs hikes. It is best to access this trail by hiking a mile south on the Palm Canyon Trail. The Victor Trail will take the hiker out of the shade of the palm trees, up and onto the ridge that overlooks the canyon and return the hiker to the Trading Post making a three mile loop. The meandering creek and granite boulders are worth a slower pace, and the peace of this canyon is palpable. Take your time to explore it, because once you start climbing out of the canyon and join the exposed Victor Trail, you’ll want to pick up your pace. This loop is a tale of two ecosystems, and this second half is all desert; it is equally beautiful in its own way, but the potential for heat and sun exposure is real. The Victor Trail winds back northward on the ridge above the creek, offering big views down the canyon and the occasional glimpse into the Coachella Valley. Palm Canyon Cahuilla Peak via Araby Trail Hard 5 miles out and back. Elevation Gain: 1,519 No dogs No shade Getting There Park at Rim Road off E. Palm Canyon. Parking can be limited. Description The beginning of the trail goes above a residential area for about 1/4 mile. The exclusive Southridge Drive will be on your right. As you continue hiking, the path becomes steeper and more challenging. Take your time and enjoy the panoramic vistas of the Coachella Valley and the San Jacinto Mountains that will start to unfold before you. The stunning views will serve as a rewarding backdrop for your ascent. After a few miles, you’ll reach a saddle where the Araby Trail intersects with the Garstin Trail. You can stay on the Araby Trail, following the signposts that lead to Cahuilla Peak. From here, the trail gets steeper and more rugged, requiring some scrambling in certain sections. Take caution and proceed with care. As you near the summit, the effort put into the climb will be well worth it. At the peak of Cahuilla, you’ll be treated to unobstructed views of the entire Palm Springs area and the picturesque Coachella Valley below. Take a moment to soak in the beauty and savor your accomplishment. Discover they this is one of the most popular Palm Springs hikes. You May Also Like: Palm Springs Hiking Guide 7 Hikes In Palm Canyons Indian Canyons Trails Guide
A Guide to Palm Springs Theaters, Choirs, and Bands Mon, December 18, 2023 by Randy Garner Welcome to Palm Springs, a vibrant city known for its thriving arts and entertainment scene. If you’re a live theater and choirs fan, you’re in for a treat. Here’s a guide to some of Palm Springs’ top live theaters, choirs, and bands that will captivate and entertain you. Palm Springs Theaters Desert Ensemble Theatre Desert Ensemble Theatre is committed to growing the art of theater by producing innovative plays that underscore the complexity of human interaction. They nurture the growth of artists of all ages, on and off the stage, and create an environment that rewards and cherishes them. Their theater internships give high school students the on-the-job experience of working in professional productions. They work professionally, expanding and practicing what they have learned in school. As they continue to grow, they aim to provide additional services for kids who want to learn about technical theater. Whether they go into the field of technical theater or not, they will offer opportunities to learn a craft and the discipline they will need to excel. The theater recently received 43 Desert Theatre League Award nominations for its 2022–23 season, with 21 nominations for its world premiere productions of “Do Not Remove Label” and “Kafka’s Joke.” The season runs from October through April at the Palm Springs Cultural Center. Dezart Performs As an Equity-sanctioned professional theatre, Dezart Performs draws on the rich talent pool both locally and from the surrounding southern California region. This makes it unique in its ability to cast gifted amateurs alongside experienced professionals. This brings high-quality performance to Palm Springs that you usually only get in larger cities. Now entering its 16th season, with an expanded schedule of four main productions, the company brings a consistent level of quality theatre to the desert, which its audiences have come to expect. The season runs from November through April. They produce four shows a season, each running two weekends. See them at the Perl McManus Theater in the Palm Springs Woman’s Club. 314 S Cahuilla Road. Palm Canyon Theatre Founded in 1997 by Bill and Sylvia Layne, Palm Canyon Theatre is a nonprofit regional repertory theater company dedicated to the education of live stage production and the enrichment of the greater Palm Springs community and its visitors. Palm Canyon Theatre produces Broadway musicals, classic plays, one-night concerts, and cabarets. The 230-seat theater is equipped with advanced sound and light technology that enhances the experience for the audience and theater groups performing there. The show season runs from September to July producing 10 shows during the entire season. The theatre is located in the historic Frances S. Stevens School, at the corner of Palm Canyon Drive and Alejo Road, 538 N. Palm Canyon. Revolution Stage Company Gary Powers and James Ownens co-founded Revolution Stage Company to elevate the city’s theater scene and nurture emerging talent. They produce high-quality, affordable entertainment that elevates theatre production standards and builds audiences who appreciate live theater. This venue offers exceptional live entertainment and a place for performers to present their best work. Powers began his career at 17 in the show “Gypsy” with Angela Lansbury outside Philadelphia. His career took him to New York City, where he worked with renowned actors, including Sir Laurence Olivier, Richard Burton, Elizabeth Taylor, and Katharine Hepburn. The theater offers the gamut of entertainment, from musicals to plays, comedy, improv, cabaret, and everything in between. This 150-seat theater also has a full-service bar and ice cream station. Revolution Stage Company is located at 611 S. Palm Canyon Drive. The Bent This is an independent non-profit theater company dedicated to resourcing the talents of the LGBTQ+ community. Its performances are at the Palm Springs Cultural Center, located at 2300 E. Baristo Road. Palm Springs Choirs Palm Springs Gay Men’s Chorus The Palm Springs Gay Men’s Chorus began in 1999 with a 24-member group called The Caballeros. As the chorus grew, they renamed itself in 2013 to the Palm Springs Gay Men’s Chorus to better identify with the community. Though the name changed, the chorus’s mission remains the same: To be a chorus of gay men who, through musical excellence, community outreach, and civic responsibility, are dedicated to entertaining, inspiring, and educating the culturally diverse community we live. Beyond its annual seasonal concerts in April and December, the chorus continues to support its community partners by singing at high-profile events, including the Steve Chase Humanitarian Awards, the AIDS Assistance Program’s Evening Under the Stars, the Equality California Awards, Michael Childer’s “One Night Only” Benefiting Jewish Family Services, and a recent concert in Las Vegas benefiting Family Promise. Most seasonal performances are at the Annenberg Theater in the Palm Springs Art Museum at 101 N Museum Way. Modern Men Modern Men is the gay men’s chorus for the Coachella Valley. They deliver dynamic and entertaining performances that blend music, humor, and storytelling. Their engaging shows celebrate the LGBTQ+ community while delighting audiences with exceptional vocal harmonies. Since joining Modern Men as Artistic Director in August 2016 and in his 53rd year in conducting, Dr. Stan Hill brings to Coachella Valley audiences his witty, humanistic, and iconoclastic approach to choral music and conducting. Well known in choral circles nationally, Stan served for 11 years as Artistic Director of the San Francisco Gay Men’s Chorus and then for 12 years as Artistic Director of Minnesota’s Twin Cities Gay Men’s Chorus before moving to Palm Springs in 2012. Modern men perform a holiday concert in December and a spring concert in April. Currently, they are performing at the Palm Springs Cultural Center at 2300 East Baristo. Palm Springs Bands Desert Winds Freedom Band The symphonic band, marching band, jazz band, and pep band perform a formal Fall and Spring concert program and often a holiday or May concert as well. The Symphonic Band or Concert Band has grown to over 100 members. In 2001, it began with just 17 members. The Jazz Band is comprised of 21 musicians who perform classic big band numbers as well as more contemporary jazz and swing. Local vocalists from the valley are often featured at the Jazz Band performance. Each year, Desert Winds Freedom Band looks forward to a prominent role in the Palm Springs Pride Parade, one of the fall’s most colorful and fun events. The Pep Band performs yearly at the Palm Springs AIDS Walk and other fundraisers or celebrations around the Coachella Valley, performing rousing marches and popular music. Artistic Director Dean McDowell Dean moved full-time from Columbus, Ohio, to the Coachella Valley in 2006. The Desert Winds Freedom Band needed a permanent Artistic Director, and Dean was recruited for the position in 2007. Under his seasoned leadership, the Band has grown into a highly esteemed, openly LGBT, and LGBT-friendly musical organization for the Coachella Valley. Dean enjoys the challenge of bringing out the best of the band’s volunteer musicians, and the audience has responded in kind. His priorities are designing future performances that continue to draw audiences, seeking greater visibility, and maintaining financial viability for the band. Whether you’re into thought-provoking dramas, uplifting musicals, or soul-stirring choir performances, Palm Springs has something to offer every theater and music lover. So, make sure to check out these incredible live theaters and choirs during your visit to Palm Springs for a truly memorable cultural experience. You May Also Like: Annenberg Theater Palm Springs Cultural Center Marvy’s Magic Theater
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