Explore The Iconic Palm Springs Windmills Wed, November 15, 2023 by Randy Garner Captivating Palm Springs Windmill Tours Nestled amidst the scenic beauty of the Coachella Valley, the Palm Springs Windmills stand tall and proud, casting their shadows against the backdrop of sprawling desert landscapes. These iconic wind turbines have become an emblem of renewable energy and a must-visit attraction for tourists and nature enthusiasts alike. As you wander through fields of spinning giants, you’ll notice how these towering structures have become an iconic symbol of the Coachella Valley. Their picturesque presence has made them popular subjects for artists, photographers, and filmmakers, further enhancing their charm and allure. The best way to explore the windmills is through the Palm Springs Windmill Tours. A Glimpse into the Past The Desert Power and Water Company, established in 1914, erected several wind turbines to generate electricity for local communities. However, due to technological limitations and the availability of cheaper power sources, this early attempt at commercial wind power was not successful. It wasn’t until 1982 that the modern era of wind power began in Palm Springs. The installation of more giant and more efficient wind turbines led to a significant increase in wind energy production. Today, the area is home to one of the largest wind turbine farms in the United States, with over 3,000 turbines generating clean, renewable energy. The Palm Springs windmills have become an iconic symbol of the region, attracting tourists and photographers alike. They stand tall against the scenic backdrop of the desert landscape and continue to play a crucial role in generating sustainable energy for Southern California. Original Carter Wind Farm Est 1982 A Look Into The Future As technology advances, older wind turbines are being replaced with more efficient and larger models. This trend is likely to continue, leading to an expansion of the windmill farms in Palm Springs. Newer turbines have higher capacities, taller towers, and longer blades, enabling them to harness more wind energy and generate electricity at a lower cost. Wind power will increasingly play a crucial role in the energy grid. The windmills in Palm Springs can provide clean and reliable electricity to support the growing demand for renewable energy. Improved grid infrastructure and advancements in energy storage technologies will enhance the integration and stability of wind power in the region. Palm Springs Windmill Tours The Palm Springs Windmill Tours are the only windmill tours in the U.S. that offers in-depth tours on a private wind farm. The tours not only tells you a story of 40 years of wind farms in Southern California, you will also learn about wind energy, how a wind turbine works, and a bit about the history of wind power. You will also learn why the San Gorgonio Pass is one of the most consistently windy places in the United States. After the tour, you will better understand renewable energy as a whole, which is so vital to the future of our planet. As you embark on the windmill tour, you’ll get an up-close look at the massive wind turbines that line the landscape. Marvel at their sheer size, standing as high as 300 feet with blades spanning over 100 feet in length. Learn about the intricate engineering that allows these turbines to capture the power of the wind, converting it into electricity. The Palm Springs Windmills generate enough renewable energy to power thousands of homes, making a significant contribution towards a greener future. For an immersive experience, consider embarking on one of the guided Palm Springs Windmill Tours. Knowledgeable guides will provide fascinating insights into the history, technology, and environmental benefits of these wind turbines. You’ll have the opportunity to witness the elegant dance of the blades up close while learning about the challenges and advancements in harnessing wind energy. The Palm Springs Windmills aren’t just a sight to behold in themselves; they are surrounded by breathtaking natural beauty. Take a moment to soak in the stunning desert landscapes, picturesque mountains, and vast expanses of palm trees that form the backdrop for these wind turbines. The juxtaposition of nature’s splendor with man-made ingenuity creates a truly awe-inspiring experience. Windmill Tour Options You have two options. For those that want a personal and custom tour, take a VIP charted tour. For those who are happy to learn and explore on your own, take a self-driving tour in the comfort of your own vehicle. Remember, this is a private wind farm, so you can only access many of the locations through Palm Springs Windmill Tours. Get ready to see some windmill blades as long as a football field! VIP Chartered Windmill Tour – 2 hours The VIP Chartered Tour will take you on a “behind the scene” journey of the wind farms in their electric vehicle with a personal Wind Tour Guide. The tour begins with a video orientation that introduces the wind farm and explains how and why wind energy works. Guests then board a five-passenger covered electric cart for an unforgettable open-air experience on the 100-acre wind farm. This is a fantastic interactive experience. This VIP Chartered has a minimum of two passengers and a maximum of five. Reservations must be made in advance. Book Now Available 10 am – 2 pm Self-Driving Windmill Tour – Approximately 1.5 hours Upon entering the private wind farm, you will check in at the Tour Center. Here you can view timeline exhibits and video on the history of the wind farm. A tour guide is on property at all times and is available for assistance. Equipped with audio, you will visit 10 clearly visible marked stops on your tour. You are encouraged to get out of your vehicle and explore the windmills. Plus, there are also two additional optional stops ending up above a vista for some great photos. You can book this tour online in advance, or just drop by. If you book online, an email confirmation will include a downloadable APP for bonus material. Kids under 12 are free. Book Now Available 9 am – 2 pm. Palm Springs Windmill Tours – 62950 20th Avenue, Palm Springs, 92262 Note: Be sure to dress appropriately for the weather and wind, including closed-toed shoes. The Palm Springs Windmill Tours offer visitors a unique blend of historical significance, technological marvels, and natural beauty. As you stand in the presence of these giants, you can’t help but appreciate the significant role they play in promoting sustainable energy sources and preserving our planet. An excursion to the Palm Springs Windmills is not just an outing but an opportunity to be inspired by the potential of renewable energy and the harmonious relationship between mankind and the environment. You May Also Like: Palm Springs Family Fun Guide Hello Windmill City Super #1
Joshua Tree Day Trip Mon, November 13, 2023 by Randy Garner Enjoy a Day Trip from Palm Springs to Joshua Tree National Park Located just a short drive away from the desert oasis of Palm Springs, Joshua Tree National Park is a treasure trove of breathtaking natural beauty. This iconic park, named after the unique Joshua Trees that dot its vast landscape, offers a stunning blend of rugged rock formations, desert vistas, and a diverse range of plant and animal life. Embarking on a day trip from Palm Springs to Joshua Tree National Park is a fantastic way to immerse yourself in nature and experience the wonders of the desert firsthand. Join us as we discover the unforgettable sights and activities that await you in this enchanting national park. Hitting the Road The journey from Palm Springs to Joshua Tree National Park takes approximately and hour, making it an easily accessible day trip. As you leave behind the urban charm of Palm Springs, the surrounding desert landscape gradually unfolds before you, setting the stage for the adventure ahead. West Entrance We recommend starting at the West entrance into the park, and continuing through the South entrance, before heading back to Palm Springs. Get on I-10 from N. Indian Canyon. Take CA-62 E/29 Palms Hwy to Sage Ave in Yucca Valley Follow Yucca Trail, Alta Loma Road and Quail Springs Road to the West Entrance. Do not rely on GPS directions to navigate to or within Joshua Tree National Park! Vehicle navigation systems sometimes try to route you onto backcountry roads with ruts or soft sand that may be impassable to your vehicle. Joshua Tree National Park Visitor Centers Upon arrival at Joshua Tree National Park, we recommend starting your day by stopping at one of the visitor centers. The Oasis Visitor Center, located near the park’s northern entrance, provides valuable information on the park’s geology, wildlife, and hiking trails. The Joshua Tree Visitor Center, found near the west entrance, offers exhibits and educational displays about the cultural and natural history of the area. Scenic Drives One of the best ways to explore the park is by taking a scenic drive along its well-maintained roads. The Park Boulevard and Pinto Basin Road loop offers breathtaking vistas of the rocky landscape, rolling hills, and the iconic Joshua Trees themselves. Be sure to make stops at various viewpoints and overlooks, such as Keys View, where you can marvel at panoramic views of the Coachella Valley. Park Boulevard Park Boulevard is one of the most popular routes in Joshua Tree National Park, taking you through the heart of the park and showcasing its iconic rock formations and Joshua Trees. This road stretches from the west entrance to the northern section of the park, passing by must-see attractions such as Hidden Valley, Jumbo Rocks, and Skull Rock. Keep an eye out for wildlife sightings, including bighorn sheep and various bird species. Pinto Basin Road Connecting the south and east entrances of the park, Pinto Basin Road offers a unique perspective of the park’s diverse landscape. As you drive along this route, you’ll witness the transition from the high desert terrain to the lower elevation Pinto Basin, where the vegetation changes and the vast expanse of the desert opens up before your eyes. Don’t forget to make a stop at the Cholla Cactus Garden, where you can take a short walk among a grove of striking cholla cacti. Keys View Road For panoramic views of the Coachella Valley and the San Andreas Fault, take a drive up Keys View Road. This winding road leads to an overlook that stands at an elevation of 5,185 feet (1,580 meters), offering an unparalleled vantage point over the surrounding desert landscape. On clear days, you can even see as far as the Salton Sea and the San Jacinto Mountains. Geology Tour Road If you’re interested in learning about the geological wonders of Joshua Tree, the Geology Tour Road is a must. This unpaved road takes you on an 18 mile journey through the park’s geological history, passing by various rock formations, outcrops, and even former mine sites. The road can be rough and requires a high-clearance vehicle, so be sure to check park conditions before embarking on this adventure. Black Rock Canyon Road Located near the northwestern boundary of Joshua Tree National Park, Black Rock Canyon Road provides a unique perspective of the park’s diverse ecosystems. As you drive along this road, you’ll encounter stunning desert scenery, desert washes, and beautiful Joshua Tree forests. There are also hiking trails and picnic areas in the Black Rock Canyon Campground, allowing you to stretch your legs and enjoy the natural surroundings. Remember to plan accordingly, as some roads may have seasonal closures or require specific permits or vehicle types. Additionally, always check for current road conditions and visitor information at the park’s visitor centers before embarking on any scenic drive. Each route offers a distinct experience, allowing you to admire the unique wonders and landscapes that make Joshua Tree National Park such a captivating destination. Joshua Tree Hiking Trails For those looking to stretch their legs and venture into the heart of the park, Joshua Tree National Park offers an extensive network of hiking trails. From shorter nature walks to more challenging treks, there is something for everyone. Hidden Valley, Barker Dam, and Ryan Mountain are popular trails that showcase the park’s unique flora and fauna, as well as its stunning geological formations. Rock Climbing and Bouldering With its rugged terrain and distinctive rock formations, Joshua Tree National Park is a haven for rock climbers and bouldering enthusiasts. The park boasts thousands of climbing routes suitable for all skill levels, from beginners to seasoned climbers. If you’re new to the sport, consider taking a guided rock climbing tour to ensure a safe and thrilling experience. Sunset Spectacles As the sun begins to set over Joshua Tree National Park, the desert landscape transforms into a magical display of colors. Finding a prime spot to witness this natural spectacle is a must during your day trip. Head to Keys View, Jumbo Rocks, or any high point in the park for an unforgettable sunset experience that will surely leave you in awe. Joshua Tree Stargazing With its remote location far from major city lights, Joshua Tree National Park offers exceptional stargazing opportunities. As night falls, the vast expanse of the Milky Way reveals itself, captivating astronomers and casual observers alike. Bring a blanket, lay back, and marvel at the countless stars that illuminate the desert sky in this International Dark Sky Park. A day trip from Palm Springs to Joshua Tree National Park immerses you in an otherworldly desert landscape characterized by awe-inspiring rock formations, unique vegetation, and an abundance of outdoor activities. Whether you choose to hike, climb, drive, or simply soak in the enchanting ambiance, this national park offers an unforgettable experience for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers alike. So, pack your camera, grab some snacks, and embark on a day trip to Joshua Tree National Park for a memorable encounter with the wonders of the desert. Joshua Tree National Park 74485 National Park Drive Twentynine Palms, CA 92277 Visitors Information: (760) 367-5500 Download the Nantional Park Service (NPS) App. Find interactive maps, tours, accessibility information, and moe to plan your visit befoe and during your trip. You May Also Like: Palm Springs Outdoor Adventure
A Palm Springs Wellness Guide Thu, November 9, 2023 by Randy Garner Welcome to Palm Springs, a paradise for wellness enthusiasts! Whether you’re seeking outdoor adventures, rejuvenating spa treatments, or nourishing healthy cuisine, this Palm Springs wellness guide will help you create a blissful and balanced wellness experience. Hiking Lace up your hiking boots and hit the trails in Palm Springs. The area is renowned for its stunning natural beauty and diverse terrain. The serene beauty of the areas natural surroundings has a calming effect, reducing stress levels and promoting relaxation. The quietness and solitude of the desert trails offer an escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life, allowing you to reconnect with nature and find inner peace. Breathing in the fresh desert air, basking in the warm sunshine, and marveling at the unique flora and fauna can be a spiritually uplifting experience. Palm Springs offers an opportunity for introspection, mindfulness, and a profound appreciation for the wonders of the Earth. Top Local Hiking Recommendations: Indian Canyons: This picturesque hiking area features stunning palm oases, dramatic rock formations, and beautiful waterfalls. Explore Palm Canyon, Andreas Canyon or Murray Canyon for an unforgettable adventure. Palm Canyon Tahquitz Canyon: Discover the beauty of this desert canyon and its 60-foot waterfall. The trail offers a fascinating glimpse into Native American history and culture, making it a unique hiking experience. Tahquitz Canyon Waterfall San Jacinto Peak: For more experienced hikers seeking a challenge, the hike to San Jacinto Peak is a must. Take the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway to the trailhead and ascend through alpine forests to reach the summit, where you’ll be rewarded with panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and valley. Biking With its extensive network of bike paths, breathtaking vistas, and refreshing climate, biking in Palm Springs provides an exhilarating escape that rejuvenates both body and mind. Many resorts and hotels offer complementary bikes. Biking Recommendations Here are three self-bike tours to explore different areas for your Palm Springs wellness getaway. Palm Springs Big City Loop Bike Tour Self-Guided Bike Tour – South Palm Springs Deepwell Ranch Estates Bike Tour Bike Rentals & Tours Bike Palm Springs Rentals & Tours offers a large range of bikes, including the popular electrical bikes. Big Wheels Tours has for 17 years been providing guided Jeep, Bike and Hike tours. Enjoy the Wellness Park If you’re wandering through Palm Springs neighborhoods, take a stroll through the Wellness Park. This five-acre spot at the corner of Via Miraleste and Tachevah Road is a serene area to relax and enjoy the outdoors. The space has fitness stations, trails, and a Healing and Fragrance garden that features plants with aromatic and medicinal qualities like lavender, peppermint and thyme. It’s a spot that locals love for its off-the-beaten-path location – and it makes a fantastic stretching and meditation spot if you’re out on a long run. Located adjacent to Ruth Hardy Park. Rejuvenate at a Palm Springs Spa Rejuvenating at a Palm Springs spa is a fantastic way to unwind and pamper yourself in a serene and luxurious setting. The desert oasis of Palm Springs is renowned for its world-class spas, offering a wide range of rejuvenating treatments and services. Spa at Séc-he The Spa at Séc-he celebrates the sacred healing waters of the Agua Caliente Hot Mineral Spring. This sprawling wellness space features men’s and women’s bathhouses, treatment rooms, a tranquility garden, a salon, a fitness room, and outdoor mineral pools. The Spa at Séc-he features 22 private mineral baths, 15 treatment rooms, a cryotherapy chamber, two float pod suites, a boutique fitness area, a grounding room, an acoustic wellness lounge, a tranquility garden, a menthol dry sauna, a eucalyptus steam room, two halotherapy salt caves, a resort-style pool with a waterfall and grotto, a zero edge mineral pool, four whirlpools, luxury cabanas, full-service salon with scalp treatment beds, a cafe and a poolside bar with food service. The Agua Caliente Hot Mineral Spring water is over 12,000 years old. It is truly unique, as it contains a mineral composition that has not been found anywhere else. The Tribe has shared the healing water with visitors for more than 120 years, and the hot spring was the first tourist attraction in Palm Springs. This new spa will be the fifth bathhouse or spa at the site, with the first one operating in the late 1880s. The Spa at Séc-he offers a full menu of massages, facials, scrubs, wraps, couples retreats, and salon services within its 15 treatment rooms, in addition to specialty experiences such as cryotherapy, flotation, and water cupping massages. The wellness spa features a clinical skin support line, organic skincare, advanced technology facials, hair treatments, and various customized wellness packages. Grounded Bodyworks Treat your mind and body with care at the same time at Grounded Bodyworks, a unique combination of salon and spa that offers massages, nail services, lashes, waxing and facials with their own special spin. You can listen to Headspace meditations during your nail service, for example, while the services use plant-based skincare. Massage offerings run the gamut but specialize in trigger points, deep tissue, cupping and pain management. You can even opt for a locally-inspired service like the Whitewater Desert Stone heated treatment that uses warmed stones from a nearby riverbed. Tip: Mobile massages are also available, as are private sound healing sessions with reiki healer Lisa Botts. Call or email the shop for more details. St. Somewhere Spa One of the newest best-kept secrets in Palm Springs is the stunning and stylish St. Somewhere Spa at the Margaritaville Resort Palm Springs. With massages, facials, manicures, pedicures, hair appointments, and body therapies like soaks and exlofiants that have a distinctly tropical flair, you’ll be able to customize your perfect spa day. Some treatments rely on flavors like coconut and citrus to awaken your senses; others use CBD oil or neroli to get your body relaxed. Or treat yourself to a package like the Refresh which includes a 60-minute Swedish massage and 30 minute facial. Tip: Looking for a happy hour but don’t want alcohol? Get 20% off a treatment enhancement to your service like a $25 paraffin or $70 Sail Away Serenity Soak when you book before 4 p.m. on weekdays. Estrella Spa at the Avalon Hotel The Estrella spa’s facilities are designed to provide the ultimate relaxation and pampering. Guests can indulge in a variety of treatments, including massages, facials, body wraps, and more. Skilled therapists use a combination of traditional techniques and modern therapies to create a personalized experience tailored to each guest’s needs. One of the standout features of the Estrella Spa is its stunning outdoor garden, which features a tranquil pool surrounded by lush greenery. This peaceful setting adds to the overall sense of serenity and allows guests to unwind and reconnect with nature. Palm Springs Yacht Club at The Parker Between the décor and the lavish spa menu, there’s no doubt that the Parker’s PSYC spa is decidedly Palm Springs. This is a great place to indulge yourself, so plan on dropping anchor for massages, facials and body treatments. Then follow with salon services such as spray tanning or manicures that will have you ready to hit the town. Between the indoor pool, private outdoor deck for enjoying post-massage libations and enchanting garden paths surrounding the facility, this is one spa that will make you happy to be lost at sea. See All Spas & Salons Yoga & Meditation Embrace tranquility and inner peace through yoga and meditation. Many studios in Palm Springs offer daily classes for practitioners of all levels. Join a session at studios like Power Yoga Palm Springs or The Yoga Collective to enhance your mind-body connection. Power Yoga Palm Springs This yoga studio is a favorite among locals for their many class offerings and unique setups. But with drop-in rates at $20, it’s also a great spot for visitors to come and practice. Those looking for an athletic and energetic class might opt for the signature power yoga class in a heated studio, or a hot yoga class that goes up to 105 degrees. A yoga sculpt class is available for those looking for a full-body workout, while beginner yoga, yin yoga, and gentle yoga classes are all also available. Hot Yoga Plus Hot Yoga Plus believes that yoga and fitness can forward the journey to health and wholeness. Embracing a lifelong devotion to the well-being of one amazing individual: you. On many levels, your practice reflects your own evolution; physically, mentally, emotionally and spiritually. Much like your life, it is a work in progress. The Sukha Life The Sukha Life of Palm Springs is a premier well-being studio dedicated to fostering holistic health through sound, movement, energy work, breath, and emotional healing. Sukha means “ease” in Sanskrit. You will experience a welcome level of ease when you walk through their door. The Sukha Life studio offers diverse classes, workshops, and training, including sound baths, yoga, Reiki, and personal growth. These are designed to help you relax, rejuvenate, reconnect with your true self, and cultivate ease, freedom, and creativity in every aspect of your life. Harmonize your Body, Mind, & Soul Crystal Fantasy Crystal Fantasy is a must-visit for anyone looking for spiritual healing and inspiration. This downtown family-owned shop has served the Palm Springs community since 1987, with owner Joy Brown Meredith curating an expert selection of crystals and more wellness and relaxation items. Shoppers leave with arms full of incense, décor, jewelry, books, cards, and much more – and simply wandering through the sprawling shop decked out in purple and violet tones provides a sense of peace. Visitors will also find a regular rotation of mediums, card readers, and reiki masters for in-store healing and services. And be sure to check out the calendar for in-store events including psychic readings, reiki healing circles, drum circles, sound baths, and more. Earth Elements Earth Elements is your source for crystals, sage, jewelry, singing bowls, selenite, oracle decks, and crystal candles. Their purpose is to support you on your holistic journey towards balance and transformation. They believe in the interconnectedness of your body, mind, and soul, and have carefully curated a collection of products to help harmonize and nurture all aspects of your being. Spiritual Spa at Studio M The spiritual spa and Studio M includes energy work and inner work. Energy work has been done throughout history and within many different cultures. These are relaxing, non-invasive, services focusing on your energies, auras, and chakras to rebalance and renewal your energy. Service options include reiki, sound/vibration, crystal, and a wholistic experience. Inner work focuses on connecting to the subconscious. Working with the subconscious can help remove inner blockages in the psyche, help change perspectives to your ideal goals, ease anxiety/stresses, help to bring up motivation to continue goals, find your own inner answers, have your mind focus on regenerating any areas needing healing, and so much more. Guided Meditation and Hypnotherapy is a relaxing service to better connect your conscious state with your subconscious. Wellness Eats & Drinks Fuel your wellness journey with nutritious and delicious cuisine. Palm Springs offers an array of healthy dining options. From organic cafes to farm-to-table restaurants, you’ll find plenty of menus that cater to various dietary preferences. FARM One highly recommended place to eat is Farm, located downtown at La Plaza. This restaurant is widely known for its farm-to-table concept, where they source their ingredients from local farmers. Farm offers a menu that features organic, seasonal, and sustainable dishes. From their wholesome salads to their delectable entrees, you can enjoy a nourishing meal while supporting local farmers. Palm Greens Café Another great option is “Palm Greens Café,” located on South Indian Canyon Drive. This plant-based café offers a wide array of vegan and gluten-free options. Their menu includes fresh juices, smoothie bowls, hearty salads, and flavorful sandwiches. Whether you’re a dedicated vegan or simply looking to incorporate more vegetables into your diet, Palm Greens Café has something for everyone. Native Foods This quaint eatery is tucked away in a quiet enclave at Smoke Tree Village. Their menu is filled with healthy, vegetarian interpretations of comfort foods like chicken tenders, nachos and burgers. With other choices like brisket, tacos and Italian meatballs, they’re cooking up seemingly every kind of meat in plant-based form. Try their hearty salads like BBQ Chicken and Taco Salad, or their bowls like the Cauliflower Shawarma and Orange Cauliflower. Nature’s Health Food & Café his health-focused spot offers a variety of organic and natural products. They have a café section that serves up delicious and nutritious meals, such as wraps, grain bowls, and vegan burgers. They also have a wide range of supplements, vitamins, and natural remedies available for purchase. Chef Tanya’s Kitchen Tanya’s Kitchen is a vegan deli and marketplace proudly serving organic ingredients. The menu includes a range of sandwiches, including things like Pastrami Mami and the Modern Hippie Veggie. The Tempeh Power Burgers will fill your fuel tank with sides like Moroccan Roasted Cauliflower or Quinoa Lemon Vegies. In a rush? Grab a pre-packages deli salad like the TuNo Salad. All Vegan & Vegetarian Restaurants A Palm Springs Wellness Stay If you’re looking for wellness-focused hotels or resorts specifically within the city of Palm Springs, here are a couple of recommendations: Korakia Pensione is a Mediterranean-inspired boutique hotel that offers wellness programs centered around relaxation and rejuvenation. Enhance your stay with to a spa getaway that rejuvenates and replenishes the body, mind, and soul. Indulge in a mini spa getaway including a relaxation massage, private yoga session, and harmonious sound bath. Relax and transform your energy in our serene desert surroundings. This boutique hotel also offers healthy dining options and a serene environment perfect for unwinding. Sparrows Lodge – This property offers a rustic and tranquil atmosphere. You will find no TVs in the rooms. This boutique hotel features beautifully designed rooms, a communal fire pit and dining space at The Barn kitchen. Everything is wrapped around their tranquil outdoor pool. It’s the perfect place to unwind and connect with nature. La Serena Villas is a boutique hotel that offers a serene and luxurious wellness retreat experience. The resort’s focus on wellness is reflected in its amenities and services. La Serena Villas offers a heated saltwater pool for a refreshing swim or leisurely sunbathing. In addition, guests can enjoy the on-site spa, which provides a range of rejuvenating treatments such as massages and facials. For those seeking an active wellness experience, the resort offers complimentary bicycles for guests to explore the surrounding area. Dining at La Serena Villas is an experience in itself. The on-site restaurant, Azúcar, serves a menu inspired by fresh Mediterranean cuisine. Guests can indulge in wholesome and flavorful dishes made from locally sourced ingredients. These are just a few beautify boutique resorts that offer a wellness escape. Remember, the key to a successful wellness experience in Palm Springs is finding balance and taking time to nurture your mind, body, and soul. Enjoy the natural beauty, embrace the serenity, and leave feeling refreshed and revitalized. You May Also Like: A History of Health Consciousness Palm Springs Vegan Guide
Agua Caliente Tribe: A Brief History Wed, November 8, 2023 by Randy Garner The Agua Caliente Band of Cahuilla Indians is a federally recognized tribe of the Cahuilla Native American people. Their creation as a federally recognized entity can be traced to the early 19th century. This is a brief account of the Agua Caliente Tribe’s history. Cahuilla Leadership Timeline Agua Caliente tribe was organized into several clans, each with its own leader or chief. These chiefs were responsible for guiding their clans, making important decisions, and representing their people in various matters. The early accounts of the leadership of the Agua Caliente tribe highlight their resilience, adaptability, and strong commitment to their people and land. Their leaders played a crucial role in navigating colonization challenges while striving to protect their tribal identity and heritage. Credit: Agua Caliente Tribe Note: Reid Milanovich, son of past Chairman Richard Milanovich, is the current Chairman following Jeff Grubbe. The Agua Caliente tribe continues to have a strong leadership structure and work together to address the needs of their community, advocate for their rights, and ensure the preservation of their cultural heritage. Cahuilla Creation Story The Agua Caliente tribe’s history dates back thousands of years. There are several versions of the Cahuilla creation story. One version told by Tribal spiritual leader Alejo Patencio in the 1920s begins with Mukat and Temayawut, two brothers who emerged from a swirling mass of colors during the universe’s first moments. After their birth, Mukat and Temayawut formed the earth, the oceans, all the creatures of the sea, and the sky. Obove: Franciso, Dolore, Alejo Patencio From there, the brothers created the first people. Mukat used black mud and worked carefully, while Temayawut used white mud and hastily sculpted his figures, which — compared to Mukat’s — were unrefined. After disagreeing with his brother over whose bodies were better, Temayawut took his creations and left. Mukat’s creatures came to life, and the sun emerged. These people — the first Cahuilla — lived alongside early beings called nukatem. Because they had more ?kiva?a, the primary energy source from which all things in the universe are created, the nukatem were seen as powerful spirits who appeared in various forms: meteors, rainbows, whirlwinds, stars, and animals. In Mukat’s People, the nukatem “connected the distant past with the present.” In a way, these spiritual beings and their ?kiva?a held the story of the Cahuilla people together, a beautiful story full of natural wonders and supernatural beings. Learn the full creation and migration story by visiting the Agua Caliente Cultural Museum. This tells the story in a 360-degree projection theater setting. photo courtesy: Agua Caliente Band of Cahuilla Indians Cahuilla Territories Although the first Cahuilla people shared a common ancestry and territory, they eventually evolved into distinct groups that occupied three different geographical zones: Mountain, Pass, and Desert. The Desert Cahuilla inhabited the lower area of the Coachella Valley and areas near the Salton Sea. Despite the extreme heat and scarcity of rain, they found plenty of resources here. Cahuilla-style home in Andreas Canyon. The Pass Cahuilla lived in the San Gorgonio Pass, a corridor between the San Bernardino Mountains to the north and the San Jacinto Mountains to the south. The San Jacinto Mountains were home to the Mountain Cahuilla. Here, Cahuilla hunters would find “deer, mountain sheep, rabbits, squirrels, and smaller animals” (The Cahuilla). Women would gather nuts, seeds, and berries depending on the season. Though they spoke slightly different dialects, the Desert, Pass, and Mountain Cahuilla still shared traditions and beliefs, and their lifestyles were very similar. Occasional attacks from neighboring groups were a reality, and the environment posed a constant threat, but overall, the Cahuilla lived in harmony with the land, each other, and other tribes. The Cahuilla people have a rich and vibrant culture deeply rooted in their ancestral lands. They are deeply connected to the natural environment and consider the mountains, canyons, and desert landscapes of the Palm Springs area sacred. Before the arrival of European settlers, the Cahuilla Indians lived a semi-nomadic lifestyle, moving between villages depending on the availability of resources. They had a well-developed social structure with leaders who governed individual villages. Arrival of the Spanish The arrival of Spanish colonizers in the late 18th century significantly impacted the Cahuilla way of life. The introduction of new diseases, conflicts over land, and forced assimilation brought various challenges to their existence. The Spanish began establishing trade routes from Mexico and setting up missions along the Pacific Coast, and some Cahuilla welcomed the newcomers. A small number even converted to Catholicism. However, exploitation of Cahuilla ancestral land became more problematic after the Mexican Revolution began in 1810. Having gained control over much of Southern California, the Mexican government began taking Cahuilla land and giving it to its people for farming and ranching. Indian Removal Act In 1830, President Andrew Jackson signed the Indian Removal Act, which authorized the federal government to relocate tribes who lived within existing states or territories. Although this act primarily affected Indian tribes living east of the Mississippi (since California was not yet a state), it was the start of the American government’s control of Indian affairs and the forced removal and relocation of Native Americans. The long-term consequences of the Indian Removal Act were profound. It resulted in the displacement and loss of Native American lives, cultures, and territories. By the 1840s, the United States had more or less conquered Southern California, and waves of new settlers began flooding the area and taking over even more Indian lands, streams, and resources. Bradshaw Trail California became a state in 1850, bringing a new group of people to the inland region of Southern California. The discovery of gold in 1863 created a population surge as potential prospectors flocked to the region where the gold was discovered on the east side of the Colorado River in Arizona. It was the middle of the Civil War, and people were happy to move westward. William Bradshaw had come to California in June 1862 to find his fortune. He gathered a party of adventurers and headed eastward from Los Angeles to a rumored new discovery of gold in La Paz ahead of what he anticipated would be another rush for gold and the boom that might make him wealthy. The route they broke was named The Bradshaw Trail. By the end of the Civil War, the link was complete to the eastern states. Bradshaw had opened Arizona and joined it to the United States. Bradshaw was befriended by Chief Cabazon, a leader of the Cahuilla tribe, who shared his knowledge of the ancient trade routes through the Colorado Desert and the location of springs and water holes where Bradshaw would establish stations. Bradshaw traveled through AGua Caliente, now Palm Springs. Southern Pacific Railroad The Southern Pacific Railroad played a significant role in the development and growth of Palm Springs. The railroad’s construction in the late 19th century opened up new opportunities for trade, tourism, and residential development in the region. The construction of the Southern Pacific Railroad in Palm Springs began in the early 1870s as part of the company’s ambitious expansion plans across California. The rail line was intended to connect Southern California to the rest of the state and beyond. The company forged a deal with the US government to acquire odd-numbered sections of land in exchange for building the railroad. Indian Rights & Allotments It wasn’t until the 1870s that the Indian Rights Association emerged in response to the rising conflict over land and rights between Native Americans and non-Indians. The organization proposed reserving parcels of land for native tribes — an idea that initially seemed to protect the Cahuilla. So, from 1875 to 1877, the U.S. government, under the executive order, established the first reservations for Cahuilla Indians. On May 15, 1876, Section 14 and a portion of Section 22 (Tahquitz Canyon) were set aside as the Agua Caliente Indian Reservation by Executive Order of President Ulysses S. Grant. Later, in 1877, President Hayes extended it to cover the even-numbered sections in three townships, which totaled some 32,000 acres. All of the land was tribally owned. The Government had previously given the odd-numbered sections to the railroad in the early 1870s as an incentive to build a cross-country rail line. The establishment of Indian reservations caused more changes for Native Americans than the arrival of the Spanish. Just 10 years after the first Cahuilla reservations were established, the American government passed the General Allotment Act of 1887, also known as the Dawes Act. The Dawes Act sought to dissolve tribal culture completely and allowed reservation land to be divided and given to individual tribal members who agreed to separate themselves from the tribe. In return, they were granted U.S. citizenship. Native American children were sent to government schools to learn English, and traditional Indian spiritual practices were banned as a result of these forced assimilation policies. Moreover, the Cahuilla weren’t allowed to govern their own people. It would take a nearly four-decade fight for the Cahuilla to gain some semblance of protection over their culture and land. The reservation is a unique checkerboard pattern of alternating square miles, left over after the federal land grant to the Southern Pacific Railroad intended to induce the building of the transcontinental railroad lines. In 1917, Congress authorized these reservation lands to be allotted to individual members of the Agua Caliente Tribe, with the title held in trust by the federal government. However,, the Secretary of the Interior failed to execute the allotment for decades, resulting in lawsuits known as the St. Marie Cases filed in 1936. When the City of Palm Springs was incorporated in 1938, its boundaries included some 8,000 acres of Indian land. At the time, there were 50 members of the Agua Caliente tribe. Palm Springs is the only place in the US where restricted tribal land is intermingled in a checkerboard pattern with other private and public land. Agua Caliente Tribal Members 1916 Extensive lobbying by the brave and sophisticated all-female Agua Caliente Tribal Council led by Vyola Ortner, with the assistance of Riverside Congressman Dalip Singh Saund and Palm Springs Mayor Frank Bogert, resulted in President Eisenhower signing into law in 1959 an act to “equalize” the value of allotments to individual tribal members and an amendment to the Indian Leasing Act to authorize the Secretary of the Interior to allow allotted as well as tribal lands to be leased for 99 years, making such lands economically viable and extremely valuable. A New Economic Outlook In the following decades, Tribal Members gained more access to healthcare, education, and job opportunities despite continued shortcomings in income and land ownership. Federal legislation like the Indian Education Act (1972), the American Indian Religious Freedom Act (1979), and the Indian Gaming Regulatory Act (1988) also played a crucial role in the development and protection of tribal culture and business. Under the 99-year lease agreements, the tribe receives rent payments, revenue sharing, and other economic benefits from the leased lands. The revenue generated from these leases has played a crucial role in supporting tribal programs, infrastructure development, education, healthcare, and other essential services for tribal members. The checkerboard reservation land of Palm Springs, with its mix of tribal and non-tribal lands, has created a unique dynamic in the city’s growth and development. It has allowed the tribe to maintain a strong presence within the community while collaborating with non-tribal entities to promote economic prosperity. However, the 99-year land leases have also posed challenges and complexities. As the leases approach their expiration, discussions and negotiations take place between the tribe and the lessees regarding lease extensions or new agreements. These negotiations involve considerations such as land values, rental rates, and the evolving needs and goals of both tribal and non-tribal parties. The checkerboard reservation land system has shaped the landscape of Palm Springs and contributed to the tribe’s economic self-sufficiency. It highlights the tribe’s ability to adapt and navigate complex land ownership issues while striving to maintain their cultural heritage and provide for the welfare of their community. Today, the Agua Caliente Band of Cahuilla Indians operates three highly successful casinos, including the Agua Caliente Casino Resort Palm Springs. The Story Lives On The Agua Caliente Band of Cahuilla Indians continue to play an essential role in the Palm Springs area. They actively engage in tribal governance, cultural preservation, and promoting awareness of their heritage. The Agua Caliente Band of Cahuilla Indians is one of the federally recognized tribes in the region, and they have made significant contributions to the local economy and community through their successful casino and resort operations. Perhaps the most important part of the Cahuilla story is that it hasn’t ended—it’s still being created and shared. Through the telling and retelling of their past, the Cahuilla have their own eternal story, one that can never be erased or forgotten. The tribe’s history is a testament to their enduring spirit and their ongoing efforts to maintain their cultural identity in the face of adversity. They serve as a reminder of the rich cultural diversity and history that has shaped the Palm Springs area. Visit the Agua Caliente Cultural Museum to learn more. The museum showcases the history, art, and traditions of the Cahuilla people and serves as a cultural center and educational resource for tribal members and the general public. Other Cahuilla Tribes Today, there are nine federally recognized Cahuilla tribes, including the Agua Caliente Band of Cahuilla Indians. In 1955, they established their own Tribal Council to oversee all Tribal government affairs. Each of the nine tribes has its own reservation and tribal council. These Indian reservations are located in the same general territory where the Cahuilla have lived for thousands of years, encompassing Imperial, Riverside, and San Diego counties. Other Cahuilla Tribes include: Augustine Band of Cahuilla Indians, Coachella Cabazon Band of Mission Indians, Indio Cahuilla Band of Mission Indians of the Cahuilla Reservation, Anza Los Coyotes Band of Cahuilla and Cupenor Indians of the Los Coyotes Reservation, Warner Springs, San Diego County Morongo Band of Cahuilla Mission Indians of the Morongo Reservation, Banning Ramona Band of Cahuilla, Anza Santa Rosa Band of Cahuila Indians, Riverside County, between Palm Springs and Anza Torres-Martinez Desert Cahuilla Indians, Thermal You May Also Like: Agua Caliente Tribe Agua Caliente Cultural Museum Agua Caliente Hot Mineral Springs – A Story of Healing Breaking the Glass Ceiling – Big Time!
Palm Springs Holidays Shopping Guide Tue, November 7, 2023 by Randy Garner As the holiday season approaches, there’s something genuinely enchanting about stepping into a vintage-inspired holiday market or store. Palm Springs, with its retro charm and laid-back vibe, boasts a handful of fabulous destinations that capture this magical essence. These markets offer unique shopping experiences and a chance to find those extra special holiday gifts that will leave your loved ones delighted and nostalgic. Join us as we explore the charming world of vintage-inspired holiday markets in Palm Springs and uncover the treasures they hold. Palm Springs Inspired Holiday Shopping Destination PSP: For Palm Springs-themed gifts and souvenirs, visit Destination PSP. From stylish apparel to custom-designed merchandise, this store captures the essence of the city. Pick up a Palm Springs-themed mug, tote bag, or even a piece of artwork to remember your visit or share your love for Palm Springs with others. See their midcentury house collection. These have been featured in the New York Times gift pick. Destination PSP Mid Mod Holiday Open House – Dec. 15, 3 – 6 pm Bring joy this holiday season by donating an unwrapped toy (worth at least $20) to the Boys & Girls Club of Palm Springs Toy Drive. As a thank you, receive a free limited-edition holiday ornament. 170 N Palm Canyon Just Fabulous has lots of—well—fabulous merchandise, including apparel, books, cards, home décor, and more. This midcentury modern retro ornament is a Palm Springs exclusive—and it’s hand-made, too! Peepa’s is a trendy retail store known for its unique selection of clothing, accessories, and home décor items. Bring retro vibes to your Christmas tree or wherever you envision this wooden ornament! Made with natural wood, this is the perfect subtle addition to any nostalgic decorating scene. Or a souvenir from your visit to fabulous “Old Hollywood:” Palm Springs! PS Homeboys is a locally owned store packed with Palm Springs-inspired home décor and offers a large collection of custom wallpaper. The owners are also interior designers. This Breezeway Rocks Glass is inspired by the iconic breeze block walls of Palm Springs. PS Homeboys has also introduced their exclusive addition to your holiday decor with this unique Palm Springs ornament. Artist Shag captures the essence of Palm Springs in his art and merchandise. With inspiration from his Welcome to Palm Springs fine art print, Shag designed this medium-duty tote to be perfect for your daily errands or fun excursions! Oooh La La is locally owned and carries a large selection of women’s clothing, shoes, baby items, gifts, jewelry, and accessories. They even have items for the pup. Their Palm Springs pillow is 100% hand embroidered on Organic cotton. It can take up to an entire week to complete the embroidery work on just one pillow! Every pillow is signed on the tag by the artisan who has worked on the pillow. PS Homeboys – This locally owned store specializes in merchandise that represents the Palm Springs lifestyle, from home decor to outdoor living. This is from their Modcity Gallery Modern Art collection, Pink Barbie II, designed by Richard Prescott. Trevor Wayne is a Palm Springs-based artist known for his vibrant pop art style, which blends humor, nostalgia, and iconic imagery. His work often features playful reinterpretations of pop culture figures, giving them a modern twist with bold colors and whimsical designs. This Palm Springs-inspired print is called Trevor Wayne Fabduction II. A hand-painted glass ornament of the Palm Springs Aerial Tram Car is available at their gift shop or can be ordered online. Clothing & Accessories Palm Springs Holiday Shopping Trina Turk – Trina Turk offers chic, modern clothing and accessories with a signature bold, vibrant style, perfect for gifting this holiday season. With a wide range of options, from cozy knits to statement pieces, you’ll find something for everyone on your list. Adorned with a signature Trina Turk print, this effortless Bali Pink Floral PJ set is approved for lounging all day in style. We love that Trina Turk is a local. Seaplane Shirts – These shirts are made in small runs of a specific quantity. They are then labeled like art (6/250) to tell you what number of shirts you have of the total shirt run. You will only find these shirts in Palm Springs, Provincetown, and El Tuggle – This is a locally owned designer showroom with continually changing merchandise, generally by the season. There is El Tuggle for men and La Tuggle for women. This beautiful caftan is currently available as part of their collection. Crystal Fantasy is a renowned metaphysical store established in 1987. Locally owned, it has become a beloved destination for locals and visitors alike who are interested in crystals, gemstones, spirituality, and holistic healing. Their stone bracelets are a popular accessory that combines the beauty of gemstones with the mystical properties they are believed to possess. These bracelets are adorned with a variety of different crystals, each carrying its own unique energy and symbolism. See the collection. Windmill City Super #1 – This is a popular screen printing studio that offers a variety of products, including custom tees, hats, mugs, and more. They collaborate with local artists to feature their work. Keep your feet fresh and warm with these Windmill City Palms socks illustrated by Prescott McCarthy. Something for the Pooch Disco Dog is a fun and eclectic store offering a vibrant mix of retro-inspired clothing, accessories, and unique home décor. Known for its playful and funky aesthetic, it’s the perfect spot for those seeking one-of-a-kind items with a vintage flair. Elevate your dog’s walking experience with this stylish Kenna harness, comfortable, and functional harness, making every adventure enjoyable. Located in the Shops at Thirteen Forty Five. Savory & Sweet Palm Springs Holiday Shopping Brandini Toffee: This family-owned company that has been making some of the world’s most delicious almond toffee since 2006. They offer almond toffee popcorn and gift boxes. For a sampling of our most popular toffee products, pick up a small toffee gift basket. Enjoy our classic toffee treats, including fluffy toffee popcorn and crunchy toffee pretzels. And for an extra special treat, sprinkle the almond toffee crumbles in your coffee or an ice cream sundae. Stroll the Palm Springs Vintage Holiday Market The Palm Springs Vintage Market is a must-visit for vintage enthusiasts and holiday shoppers alike. This expansive open-air market, held on the first Sunday of every month, features over 180 vendors showcasing an incredible array of vintage and retro-themed goods. You’ll find everything you need, from clothing and accessories to furniture and home décor, to create a truly unique and unforgettable holiday gift. Located in a parking lot next to the Agua Caliente Casino. 7 am – 2 pm. December 1. Gift an Experience – All Year Indian Canyon & Tahquitz Canyon Annual Pass: The Agua Caliente Indian Reservation’s Indian Canyons and Tahquitz Canyon boast incredible history, views, rock art, ancient irrigation systems, native wildlife, plants, and seasonal waterfalls. The annual passes are $125 each at the Palm Springs Visitor Center, 2901 N. Palm Canyon Drive. Palm Springs Air Museum Annual Membership: This membership includes unlimited free admission for one year, a subscription to the museum newsletter, one guest pass, and a 10% discount at the Air Museum museum gift shop. Join Now They also offer Gift certificates for their fun and unique Warbird rides. Fly in a C-47, P-51, t-6, or PT-17. Purchase a Gift Certificate. Palm Springs Art Museum Annual Membership: An individual membership includes unlimited admission to all locations, one guest pass, exclusive member invitation to select exhibition previews and public programs, and 10% discount at the Art Museum store. Join Now You May Also Like: Palm Springs Holidays
Top Palm Springs Instagram Spots Tue, November 7, 2023 by Kara Walker Palm Springs is one of the trendiest destinations to travel. Why? This desert city’s midcentury modern charm has been brought to life with thoughtful hotel concepts, photo-worthy shops and restaurants, epic pool parties, and desert modernism style. It is a desert escape for the modern millennial who wants to get away for the weekend in style. Here are some Palm Springs Instagram spots to share on your social media. Those Colored Doors Everyone loves the colored doors of Palm Springs, and it is a top Palm Springs Instagram spot. A great way to see them is on a bike touring the neighborhoods. Palm Springs Visitor Center Now, the Palm Springs Visitor Center is the first building to greet you as you approach from the West on Highway 111 from Los Angeles. The building dates back to 1965 and was designed by famous Swiss-born architects Albert Frey and Robson Chambers. Its dramatic backdrop is the San Jacinto Mountains, which make the building even more dramatic. The Visitor Center is also on the corner of Tram Road, which is the entryway to the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway. Palm Springs Welcome Sign Instagrammers love to take selfies in front of the Palm Springs welcome sign, steps away from the Palm Springs Visitor Center. This is a signature image that “proves” you were in Palm Springs, and most visitors know its location. The never-ending blue sky and striking mountains make this scene like no place else. Greetings from Palm Springs Mural While you are at the Palm Springs Visitor Center, capture your Palm Springs stay at the popular mural. Palm Springs Aerial Tramway Capture breathtaking views of the Coachella Valley from the rotating tramcar as you ascend to the top of Mount San Jacinto. Indian Canyons Credit @travelwith.dna The sacred Indian Canyons, the Indian Reservation of the Agua Caliente Band of Cahuilla Indians, are nestled on the edge of the desert floor. Murray and Andreas Canyons offer a literal oasis of hiking opportunities. Sights like waterfalls and huge fan palm oasis will make your gram pop. Parker Palm Springs Credit @graymalin The Parker Palm Springs has a storied history dating back to the late 1950s , but it was its reincarnation in 2004 as the Jonathan Adler-designed boutique property that has helped lead to in now being a Leading Hotel of The World. This elegant resort hidden behind this highly Instagrammed iconic wall, has become synonymous with celebrity visits and high profile buy-outs. Moorton Botanical Garden Long established in beautiful Palm Springs since 1938, this arboretum was created to share with everyone the beauty and extraordinary varieties of desert plants from around the world. Featuring desert trees and cacti from miniatures to giants, it offers a collection of more than 3000 varieties of plants designed in concentrated habitats along a natural trail. The highly Instagrammed exhibition of quite rare plants is the world’s first “Cactarium”. Palm Springs Windmills Credit @asyatravels These iconic wind turbines are a symbol of renewable energy and provide a striking backdrop for any photo. Marilyn Monroe Statue Snap a pic in front of the iconic Marilyn Monroe statue located right downtown by the Palm Springs Art Museum. The 26-foot-tall statue, known as “Forever Marilyn,” captures the famous scene from the film “The Seven Year Itch” where Marilyn’s white dress is blown up by a passing subway vent. You May Also Like: View to a Thrill
Meet Frank Sinatra through Mel Habor Fri, November 3, 2023 by Randy Garner Mel Haber was a notable figure in Palm Springs known for being the owner and proprietor of the Ingleside Inn (now Ingleside Estate) and Melvyn’s, the on-site restaurant, from 1975 until his death on October 25, 2016. He moved to California in 1974 and purchased the Ingleside Inn a year later after falling in love with it during a vacation from Los Angeles. Melvyn’s Restaurant became a hotspot for celebrities and notable figures. Beyond his business ventures, Haber was also recognized for his charitable work. He served on the board of the Angel View Crippled Children’s Foundation for over 25 years. He was also involved with the SafeHouse of the Desert, an organization dedicated to the well-being of homeless, abandoned, and abused children. Waiting For The Sinatra Visit Mel Haber was pretty bummed at first because Frank Sinatra had not come to his place after three months of being opened. He felt he hadn’t made it unless Sinatra came for dinner. He noted, “In those days, Palm Springswas a small village and everybody knew where Sinatra was all the time. You would hear he’s having dinner here, he went over to this lounge or ver there.” Then, one night, he got word that he was on his way. After that faitful night, he made Melvy’s one of his regular places to dine. Frank always arrived with a party of about severn or eight. This group always included Barbara Marx and the people he viewed as his inside colleagues. “There was Jimmy VanHeusen, the songwriter. Leo Derousher, the baseball guy. There was a guy named Ruby who owned Ruby’s Dunes.” Sinatra was very loyal to the people who had been there for him through the years, and he included them in his inner circle wherever he went. Ruby fed Frank when he was down until his comebak in “From Here To Eternity.” Haber called over the maitre and said, “Brian, what do you remember about Sinatra?” Brian said, “Well, there is one thing that sticks out in my mind. We have had four Presidents in this establishment. Interestingly, none of them carried the aura that Frank Sinatra did.” Mel added, “He would come into Melvy’s and stand in front of the bar. I’m not sure why, maybe to make his presence known, but in any case, that wouldn’t have been necessary. If Sinatra was here, everyone knew it. He made it clear that he didn’t want pictures taken of him. So even though I desperately wanted a picture of myself with him, I knew that was out of the question.” One night, a photographer friend knew Mel wanted a picture with Frank, so he told Mel to position himself near Frank and the man he was talking to. He said, “I’m going to get that picture for you.” So, the picture was timed to include Mel Haber. The stories about Frank Sinatra’s generosity is true. When he arrived at Melvyn’s he would ask how many people were involved in accommodating his very early dinner reservation. Then, at a certain point, he asked the maitre to bring in the staff, and he would ceremoniously hand each of them a $100 bill. When asked about what Sinatra liked to eat, Mel said, “He was a veal man. He was very meticulous. He was meticulous right down to how the vegetables should be placed and how they should be cooked. He really knew his food. He was really into it.” A Special Sinatra Dinner Party With Palm Springs being a much smaller village at the time, Mr. Haber’s connections were extensive. In 1976, he was informed by a confidante that Frank was on his way to Melvyn’s to plan a special dinner party. He was also told dinner party was the rehearsal dinner party for his wedding to Barbara Marx. As Mel tells the story, “Frank Sinatra came in, started planning the dinner, and asked me if we had black or gray caviar. I knew I was over my head, so I took a guess and said balck caviar, which turned out to be the right answer.” Once the dinner was planned, Mel never let on he knew the real reason for the dinner. He recalls, “Mr. S gave me the highest compliment.” He said, “Mishpachan, which is the Hebrew word for you are family.” Mel through his pre-wedding dinner would make national news. However, the pre-wedding dinner was on a Saturday in the summer. He got married on Sunday at the Annenberg Estate (Sunnylands), so by the time the papers came out on Monday the wedding got all the press not the pre-wedding dinner. Nevertheless, Frank Sinatra’s rehearsal dinner party at Melvyn’s for his wedding to Barbara was a significant event in Palm Springs’ social history. This event was one of many that solidified Melvyn’s reputation as a gathering place for celebrities and notable figures. ELVYN’S RESTAURANT AND LOUNGE 200 W Ramon Road | 760-325-2323 You May Also Like: Longest Operating Restaurants in Palm Springs Twin Palms Frank Sinatra Estate
Palm Springs Modernism Week 2024 Tue, October 31, 2023 by Randy Garner Modernism Week Guide, Feb 15 – 25 Modernism Week’s signature February festival highlights midcentury modern architecture, art, interior and landscape design, and vintage culture in Palm Springs. The popular annual 11-day festival will feature more than 350 events, including the Palm Springs Modernism Show, tours of iconic homes in more than 35 neighborhoods and communities, walking tours, and nightly parties. CAMP, which stands for the Community and Meeting Place, is an exciting feature of Modernism Week. It is a vibrant and interactive hub where design enthusiasts, architecture lovers, and creative minds come together to celebrate the mid-century modern movement. CAMP offers various engaging activities, including presentations, panel discussions, film screenings, book signings, and exhibitions. Renowned architects, designers, and historians worldwide gather at CAMP to share their insights and experiences, providing visitors a unique opportunity to learn and be inspired. Hyatt Palm Springs – 285 N Palm Canyon. Ample free parking. Enter underground at Hyatt on Palm Canyon Drive or in the multi-level garage across from the Palm Springs Art Museum. Keynote Presentation: Dr. Barry Bergdoll,(2/17, $20 and $35) With the just-completed reconstruction of Albert Frey’s 1931 House in Palm Springs as his inspiration, Dr. Barry Bergdoll will trace the evolution of Modernist architecture on exhibition and highlight important international exhibitions of architecture that have been the catalytic converters of the Modern Movement. This includes the Museum of Modern Art’s 1932 inaugural architecture exhibition of “International Style” buildings, which brought the exploding culture of exhibitions of modernist architectural designs to a crescendo. Located at Annenberg Theater. Featured Modernism Week 2024 Home Tours This year, Modernism Week will present two Featured Home Tours. Modernism Week Featured Home Tour: Wexler ’54, (2/16 – 2/19 & 2/23 – 2/25, $40) This tour of the recently renovated and historically designated Wexler ’54 is a must-see. Located in the Deepwell Estates neighborhood, this Wexler-Harrison home is a quintessential example of post-and-beam residential design and a model of thoughtful architectural preservation. The current homeowners worked with architect and preservation consultant Susan Secoy Jensen, AIA, to develop an architectural plan and pursue a historic designation to protect and preserve the home, granted in 2022. H3K Home + Design took the profile of the 4-bedroom, 4.5-bathroom home back to its roots to retain the best of midcentury style and elegance while creating a home that supported today’s lifestyle inside and out. 1177 E Mesquite Ave Modernism Week Featured Home: The Shag House (2/16-2/19 & 2/23-2/25, $40) The artist Shag has reimagined a cherished midcentury modern pool home in the Little Beverly Hills neighborhood of Palm Springs to create a fully immersive tour experience that will make visitors feel as though they have climbed into a life-size Shag painting. Shag has drawn upon his architectural studies and artwork’s aesthetic to reimagine this classic 1958 home, originally designed for the Alexander Construction Company. For the core of the house, Shag preserved much of the original Palmer & Krisel layout of this classic Alexander design but created an entirely new front exterior, expanded the front entry, and converted the original breezeway into a stylish party lounge. The location will be printed on the ticket. Signature Modernism Week 2024 Home Tours Monday Edition, Meet the Architect ($50) An exclusive one-house Signature Home Tour showcasing the Architect’s creative work, Mark W. Daniels, AIA. Transcending the ordinary, this remarkable architectural home boldly embraces simplicity. Private Residence. The location will be printed on the ticket. Friday Edition, Meet the Design Team (2/23, $50) This exclusive one-house Signature Home Tour showcases the talents of Lance O’Donnell, AIA, and the interior design team of Capurro + Davis Design in the hillside neighborhood of Little Tuscany. Private Residence. The location will be printed on the ticket. NEW: Modernism Week Restoration Series: The Sutter House (2/18, $60) Modernism Week will present the inaugural Restoration Series, home tours devoted to celebrating significant examples of Desert Modernist architecture that have been preserved, restored, and contain carefully curated furnishings and décor. The modernist masterpiece Sutter House, by architect E. Stewart Williams AIA, 1958, is Palm Springs Historic Site #133 and the first to be featured in this new series. The home has been carefully updated and furnished with thoughtful attention to the period. The Sutter House – 1207 S Calle de Maria NEW: Home Tour of “That Pink Door House,” Villa Sierra (2/20 & 2/21, $40) Step behind the famous pink doors of the playful Villa Sierra, a colorful take on midcentury modern Hollywood regency style designed by James McNaughton. This is a rare opportunity to take in all the colorful surprises of this iconic midcentury desert ranch, including expansive public rooms of grand proportions and floor-to-ceiling windows that blur the boundary of inside and outside. 1100 E Sierra Way NEW: Art + Architecture Home Tour: Hollywood Regency Style (2/16, $40) Get an exclusive tour of a rare private gem in the world of midcentury and Hollywood Regency architecture in Palm Springs – the 1967 masterpiece designed by renowned architect James McNaughton. This significant home is not just a showcase of architectural excellence but also showcases the owner’s stunning art and design collection. Private Residence. The location will be printed on the ticket. Returning Home Tours House of Tomorrow Home Tour – Experience the newly renovated Alexander Estate, known as the House of Tomorrow, popularly known as the Elvis Honeymoon Hideaway, where Elvis and Priscilla Presley honeymooned in 1967. $55. 1350 Ladera Circle Twin Palms Residence: PS ModCom Iconic Home Tour – Visit the Iconic Twin Palms Home Tour of a Class One Historic Site Designed by William Krisel AIA. $40 (30 min) – 1070 Apache Rd Modernism Week 2024 Architectural Bus Tours In addition to the popular recurring Premier Double Decker Architectural Bus Tour, Modernism Week offers other compelling bus tours. All bus tours depart from CAMP at the Hyatt Palm Springs. Illuminated Twilight Tour (2-16 – 2/21, and 2/23 – 2/24, $90) This evening tour provides guests with a 90-minute illuminated view of some of the most significant midcentury architectural treasures of Palm Springs. The Homes That Define Palm Springs Bus Tour (2/15, 2/22 & 2/25, $90)This 90-minute tour showcases some of the most popular neighborhoods in Palm Springs, drawing attention to the spectacular home styles, including pre-war Spanish Colonial Revival and a range of midcentury modern residential architectural styles. Charles Phoenix Super Duper Double Decker Bus Tour (2/16 – 2/25, $150) Experience midcentury architectural treasures of Palm Springs with retro pop culture humorist and author Charles Phoenix as he leads a spirited adventure atop a double-decker open-air bus. This tour always sells out. Bella da Ball’s Celebrity Homes Bus Tour (2/16 – 2/18 & 2/23 – 2/24) $90 Bella da Ball, Palm Springs’ own drag emcee, guides this special sunset tour of Palm Springs celebrity haunts, clubs, and homes. Parties & Special Events Modernism Week Opening Night Party: Disco in the Desert (2/15, $350) The most anticipated bash of the year returns with an Opening Night Fever dance party! This solid gold disco extravaganza is in a larger venue this year, which will be transformed into a tony, velvet-rope-entry dance club. A live band, lavish libations, and all-night party bites will fuel the disco inferno. 1970s disco club-inspired dress is encouraged. Palm Springs Air Museum – 745 N Gene Autry Trail Preview Party for the 24th Annual Palm Springs Modernism Show (2/16, $125) at the Palm Springs Convention Center. The party is the prime opportunity for participants to shop directly from dealers before the show opens to the public on Saturday. The ticket price includes cocktails and hors d’oeuvres, entertainment, and weekend re-entry to the show. The popular event showcases more than 125 premier national and international exhibitors from across the U.S. and Europe, featuring vintage furniture and decorative and fine arts reflecting all design movements of the 20th century with a heavy emphasis on mid-century modern and compelling 21st-century original designs for modern living. Palm Springs Convention Center – 277 N Avenida Caballeros The Shag House: First Look Cocktail Party– (2/16)Join Shag and his collaborators for the exclusive first look at The Shag House. This stylish poolside reception will feature mid-mod-inspired hors d’oeuvres, cocktails, and swank tunes. $200 (2 hrs) 4 – 6 pm, 660 S Compadre The Big Reveal House Party at The Shag House – (2/16) Step into the sights and sounds of the Shag House during the Big Reveal House Party hosted by world-renowned artist Shag. $150 (2 hrs) 8 – 10 pm, 660 S Compadre Royal Hawaiian Estates Presents “A Blue Hawaiian Hop!” – (2/16) Join the Royal Hawaiian Estates as they present “A Blue Hawaiian Hop” under the pre-dusk sky! $140 (2 hrs) Royal Hawaiian Estates – 105 E Twin Palms Drive, Gate #2 In MOD We Trust, PS ModCom’s Annual Gala Benefit (2/17, $200) will be held at The Church, a former Community Church built in 1960. This testament to midcentury modern design recently underwent a complete exterior restoration, and its there-imagined interior now serves as a state-of-the-art recording studio and entertainment venue. Check-in information will be printed on the ticket. Trina Turk Fashion Show at the Historic Frank Sinatra Estate (2/18, $250) Don’t miss the debut of fashion designer Trina Turk’s Spring and Limited-Edition Collection for 2024 at the legendary Frank Sinatra “Twin Palms” Residence. Be among a limited number of guests for this rare opportunity to enjoy a premiere fashion show experience at one of Palm Springs’ most notable midcentury modern homes. Guests will have the special opportunity to meet Trina Turk while touring the Sinatra Estate. 1145 E Via Colusa Friday Night Cocktail Reception at the Frank Sinatra Estate (23, 6 – 9 pm) Offering guests the unique opportunity to wine and dine like Sinatra. 1145 E Via Colusa. $200 Retro Martini Party (2/23, $250) is the Palm Springs Preservation Foundation’s annual fundraiser that will take place at the Leon & Thea Koerner Residence (1955, E. Stewart Williams) in Deepwell Estates. This historic venue checks all the boxes: great architecture, sophisticated ambiance, and magnificent mountain views. This is the first opportunity to see this spectacular midcentury residence since an extensive home restoration was recently completed. Check-in information will be printed on the ticket. Poolside Gossip: Cocktails & Conversation with Nelda Linsk & Shawn Waldron – (2/23, 5 – 7 pm) Please join us for cocktails and conversation with Nelda Linsk (Palm Springs icon and the beautiful subject of Slim Aarons’ “Poolside Gossip” photograph) and Shawn Waldron (Curator, Print Sales and Exhibitions for Getty Images). $125 (2 hrs) Elegant Jazz Dinner at Smoke Tree Ranch & VIP ALL ACCESS Pass to PSJazzFest – (2/24) ALL ACCESS VIP JAZZ EXPERIENCE tickets include Up Front reserved seats to all PSJazzFest performances and an Elegant Jazz Dinner at the private enclave of Smoke Tree Ranch, exclusively for VIP pass holders. $1,000. Check in the Smoke Tree Ranch gate by 5 pm for dinner. Cocktails will be at 5 pm, followed by dinner at 5:30 pm. Live entertainment followed at the Annenberg Theater. Modernism Week 2024 Live Performances Shag With A Twist – A Murder Mystery Musical (2/18, $100 General Admission $175 VIP & 2/19, $85 and $100 VIP) Note: The 2/18 VIP ticket includes premium seating, access to an exclusive pre-show meet and greet reception at 6 pm. Shag With A Twist brings to life the art of Shag in a sexy show that will leave the audience shaken and stirred. Guests will be fully immersed in the retro-cool world of the most beloved Shag characters as they come alive in a colorful cocktail of song and dance to solve the “Infamous Case of the Tupperware Party Killer.” This performance promises to transport attendees to a world of retro style, adventure, and intrigue, as can only be found in the imagination of Shag. “Swinging On A Star” – An Evening of Jimmy Van Heusen’s Songs with Marissa Mulder (2/20, $35 and $50 VIP) This evening of songwriter Jimmy Van Heusen’s songs features the award winning Marissa Mulder, a gifted lyric interpreter who puts her stamp on some of Van Heusen’s most prolific songs such as “Come Fly with Me” and “All The Way.” Annenberg Theater. Modernism Week partnered with PSJazzFest Herb Alpert and Lani Hall at the Annenberg – Opening Night! (2/25, –$60 – $350) These two legendary performers will take the stage to deliver a truly memorable opening night performance, including their full orchestra and huge LED screen to share their story. The Cookers – Legendary All-Star Jazz Band Live at the Annenberg (2/25, $40 and $75) With each member of this legendary jazz group having four decades of experience in the jazz world, The Cookers are the most incredible jazz super-band working, and this performance will blow the roof off! Veronica Swift In Concert at the Annenberg (2/25, $40, $65, and $125) Swift’s performances surpass the boundaries of genre classification, enchanting sold-out audiences with her seamless transitions from Ella to Judy and from Grace Slick to the Dresden Dolls. Taj Mahal Quartet and Sona Jobarteh (2/25, $60, $70, and $295) Blues legend Taj Mahal brings his glorious voice and virtuosic multi-instrumentalism to this uniquely powerful evening of new world music with Sona Jobarteh, Gambia’s griot kora sensation. Modernism Week 2024 Featured Talks Annenberg Theater All Access Pass ESSENTIAL CITY: A Futuristic Exploration of Desert Cities – (2/16, 1 – 2:30 pm) Desert cities are the frontline of climate change. Welcome to ESSENTIAL CITY, a hypothetical desert city conceived by SOUND SPACE DESIGN Architects and Desert Developments. Camp Theater $15 (1.5 hrs) Preserving the Bauhaus Legacy on Cape Cod: Saving Marcel Breuer’s Summer Home–A CALL TO ACTION! – (2/16, 1 – 2 pm) Threatened! Marcel Breuer’s own summerhouse is in Wellfleet, MA. Peter McMahon, founder of the Cape Cod Modern House Trust on plans to preserve it. A Call To Action to save this irreplaceable house. Annenberg Theater, Palm Springs Art Museum – 101 N Museum Dr $150 Ticket & Signed Book, $18 General Admission More Than Desert Modern: William F. Cody’s Visions of Postwar Architecture and Leisure Living – (2/17, 9 – 10 am) In the Coachella Valley, William F. Cody created new visions of modernism, desert architecture, and postwar living. The authors of Master of the Midcentury illustrate Cody’s indelible imprint. Book signing. Camp Theater. $15 (1 hr) John Wayne, Hollywood and the American West (2/17, 9 – 10 am) John Wayne’s son Ethan Wayne will be joined by Laurie Kratochvil and Amy Shepherd to present a photographic journey through the Hollywood of yesteryear, the American West, and the enduring spirit of John Wayne and his contemporaries. Annenberg Theater, Palm Springs Art Museum – 101 N Museum Dr. $18 The Direction of Sculptural Ceramics in Architecture by Stan Bitters – (2/17, 11 am – 12:30 pm) Stan Bitters, the legendary master of ceramic murals, shares his 65-year-long experience working on ceramic sculpture and his motivation to interject art into architecture. A short film follows. Annenberg Theater, Palm Springs Art Museum – 101 N Museum Dr. $25 (1.5 hrs) Charles Phoenix Presents “New York Cityland and the 1964 New York World’s Fair” (2/17, 3:30 – 5 pm) Charles Phoenix’s latest entertaining photo slide show celebrates the marvels of midcentury Manhattan and the futuristic 1964 New York World’s Fair. See his collection of vintage images and hear stories of a bygone era. Annenberg Theater, Palm Springs Art Museum – 101 N Museum Dr. $50 and $65 Desert Modernism 101–from Bauhaus to Our House – (2/17, 1 – 2:30 pm) Enjoy an informative and entertaining look at the principles of design that rocked the world of architecture in post-war America. Camp Theater$15 (1.5 hrs) An Introduction to Herbert Bayer and the Bauhaus–Aspen Connection (2/18) The newly opened Resnick Center for Herbert Bayer Studies, located in Aspen, CO, is dedicated to preserving the legacy of the artist and designer Herbert Bayer. Acting Director Lissa Ballinger will share Bayer’s journey from New York to Aspen, where between 1946 and 1975, Bayer was instrumental in Aspen’s postwar revitalization, designing the Aspen Institute campus and shaping the organization’s early artistic and programmatic vision. Annenberg Theater, Palm Springs Art Museum – 101 N Museum Dr. $18 California Cool: Explore Palm Springs and Beyond Through the Modern Paintings of Danny Heller – (2/18, 11 am – noon) Fill your eyes with swaying palm trees, shimmering swimming pools, atomic architecture, and colorful classic cars as artist Danny Heller takes you on a road trip through his retro-focused paintings. $15 (1 hr) Architect Mark W. Daniels, AIA: “Talking to Strangers Only Leads to Good Things – (2/19, 9 – 10 am) Architect Mark W. Daniels, AIA, presents an entertaining and informative talk delving into the intricate world of design and the creative process to generate truly unique architectural buildings. Camp Theater $15 (1 hr) Bakelite, Bone & Bamboo: The Mystical Chinese Game of Mahjong – (2/19, 1 – 2:30 pm) “Click clack” go the tiles. What is this mysterious Chinese game of mahjong? Learn how it’s played and why it’s so popular, and explore the thrill of collecting exotic vintage sets. Camp Theater. $15 (1.5 hrs) The Birth of Modernism: Irving Gill in California – (2/20, 11 am – Noon) Meet the Modern Master–Irving Gill of San Diego. Architect and historian Alan Hess reveals how Gill perfected the architecture of simplicity before the Bauhaus and set the template for Modernism. Annenberg Theater, Palm Springs Art Museum – 101 N Museum Dr. $18 (1 hr) The Secrets of Designing Great Desert Gardens– (2/20, 11 am – noon) What are the secrets of designing great desert gardens? Landscape architect Lisa Gimmy will explore the character of six great gardens and share her experiences designing and building in the desert. Camp Theater. $15 (1 hr) The Unique and Beautiful Sonoran Desert Gardens of Steve Martino, FASLA (2/20, 1 – 2 pm) For the past 40 years, the landscape architectural firm of Steve Martino & Associates has been committed to developing and advancing Landscape Architecture in the Southwest. Camp Theater $15 (1 hr) Material Landscapes: Authenticity, Innovation, and Collaboration – (2/20, 9 – 10 am) Surfacedesign, Inc. presents a selection of their landscape architecture work that celebrates horticultural exuberance, material authenticity, and cultural and ecological narratives that emerge from each site. Camp Theater $15 (1 hr) From Bauhaus to Your House: The Life and Designs of Anni Albers – (2/20, 1 – 2 pm) Join Annalisa Capurro and Michal Silver for a fascinating insight into the extraordinary life, designs, and legacy of Anni Albers. Annenberg Theater, Palm Springs Art Museum – 101 N Museum Dr. $18 (1 hr) 10 Years of Iconic Houses: Connecting the Most Significant House Museums of the 20th Century (2/20, 3 – 4 pm) This behind-the-scenes talk with Netherlands-based founder Natascha Drabbe, provides insight into ICONIC HOUSES, the international nonprofit network connecting more than 200 architecturally significant 20th-century houses open to the public as house museums. Annenberg Theater, Palm Springs Art Museum – 101 N Museum Dr. $18 Francisco Artigas at Midcentury: Modern Houses of the Mexican Miracle – (2/21, 9 – 10 am)Francisco Artigas, renowned architect of the 1950/60s, designed elegant modern homes for the elite of Mexico City and beyond, leaving a lasting legacy of sophistication and timeless style. Annenberg Theater, Palm Springs Art Museum – 101 N Museum Dr. $18 (1 hr) Rational Simplicity and Rudolph de Harak: The Life and Work of a Midcentury Modernist Designer – (2/21, 1 – 2 pm) Join Richard Poulin, author of the first major publication on Rudolph de Harak, as he gives an in-depth and definitive account of this influential midcentury modernist designer’s life and work. Annenberg Theater, Palm Springs Art Museum – 101 N Museum Dr. Includes book signing. $18 (1 hr) “Memories of Sinatra” presented by Legendary Five-Time Emmy-Award Winning Journalist and Television Host Bill Boggs – (2/21, 6 – 7 pm )Bill Boggs has traveled the world with his multi-media show on Frank Sinatra, which celebrates Sinatra’s impact on all of us and now for the first time he is bringing it to Palm Springs—rarely seen video clips, great stories and songs. $35 (1 hr). The Palm Springs Cultural Center – 2300 E Baristo Rd Wait Until You See: Slim Aarons x Palm Springs – (2/21, 3 – 4 pm) Slim Aarons made his most famous work, Poolside Gossip, at the Kaufmann House. Shawn Waldron, author of “Slim Aarons: The Essential Collection,” will discuss Aaron’s work in Palm Springs and beyond. Annenberg Theater, Palm Springs Art Museum – 101 N Museum Dr $18 (1 hr) Palm Springs Fashion, Then & Now: Trina Turk and Nelda Linsk in Conversation – (2/22, 3 – 4:30 pm) an extraordinary event featuring Style Icon Nelda Linsk and Fashion Designer Trina Turk discussing ‘Palm Springs Fashion’ and the influential fashion shows Palm Springs has hosted over the years. Annenberg Theater, Palm Springs Art Museum – 101 N Museum Dr $35 (1.5 hrs) A Tale of Two Kaufmann Wives and Two Tragic Endings – (2/22, 1 – 2 pm) Author Adele Cygelman delves into the lives of the two women who were eclipsed by their better-known husband and even better known house, Neutra’s Desert Kaufmann House, and who both met a tragic end. Book signing. Annenberg Theater, Palm Springs Art Museum – 101 N Museum Dr $18 (1 hr) The Kaufmanns of Fallingwater: Modern Movement Tastemakers – (2/22, 9 – 10 am) As retailers, patrons, and philanthropists, the Kaufmanns played a significant role in promoting modern design. Fallingwater’s Director, Justin Gunther, explores the contributions of this influential family. Annenberg Theater, Palm Springs Art Museum – 101 N Museum Dr $18 (1 hr) Midcentury Modern Style: An Approachable Guide to Inspired Rooms – (2/22, 11 am – noon) Interior designer Karen Nepacena shows how to bring the spirit of MCM style to any home. Photographer Christopher Dibble shares inspirational yet relatable images that capture the essence. Book signing. Camp Theater. $15 (1 hr) Sarasota School of Architecture Redux – (2/22, 11 am – noon) Marty Hylton of Architecture Sarasota re-examines the postwar origins of the Sarasota School and its resurgence as a new generation of designers transforms Sarasota and architectural practice. Annenberg Theater, Palm Springs Art Museum – 101 N Museum Dr $18 (1 hr) Modernism Rules the Waves: The Edgy Elegance of Midcentury Liners and Cruise Ships – (2/23, 9 – 10 am) Join midcentury design aficionado and maritime historian Peter Knego as he takes you across the seven seas via a rarefied world of floating Midcentury Modern masterpieces. Camp Theater. $15 (1 hr) Neutra, Wright and Modernism in Bakersfield – (2/23, 11 am – noon) Bakersfield, best known for its music legends, was also a hotbed of modern architecture. Experience one of the most unexpected concentrations of modern architecture just 100 miles from Los Angeles. Camp Theater $15 (1 hr) Paul Rudolph, Charles Moore, and Back Again: A Sarasota Architect’s Journey – (2/23, 11 am – noon) Explore the enduring architectural legacies of Paul Rudolph, FAIA, and Charles Moore, FAIA, from architect Jonathan Parks, AIA, sharing intimate knowledge of their work and their influence on his own. Annenberg Theater, Palm Springs Art Museum – 101 N Museum Dr $18 (1 hr) The Wood Expressionism of John Marsh Davis, 1961–1979 – (2/24, 9 – 10 am) Author-architect Hans Baldauf, FAIA, LEED AP, presents John Marsh Davis’ design legacy of wood expressionism, spanning dramatic coastal residences and magisterial timber-framed Napa winery complexes. Includes book signing. Camp Theater. $15 (1 hr) Wasteland to Wonderland: Palm Desert Corporation and the Making of a Modern Desert City – (2/24, 11 am – noon) Although mostly forgotten, Palm Desert is a desert city with deep roots in modern architecture. Historian Luke Leuschner presents an overview of the creation of the city with new and unseen material. Camp Theater $15 (1 hr) Paradise Lost: Googie & Modernism in The Catskills (2/24, 1 – 2 pm) The resorts of the Catskill Mountains or ‘Borscht Belt’ offered a glamorous summer haven during the 20th century. Explore this hidden midcentury modern wonderland with photographer Isaac Jeffreys. Camp Theater $15 (1 hr) Special Presentations “Memories of Sinatra” presented by Legendary Five-Time Emmy-Award Winning Journalist and Television Host Bill Boggs – (2/21, 6 – 7 pm) Bill Boggs has traveled the world with his multi-media show on Frank Sinatra, which celebrates Sinatra’s impact on all of us and now for the first time he is bringing it to Palm Springs—rarely seen video clips, great stories and songs. Palm Springs Cultural Center. Includes presentation and a film. $35 (1 hr) Featured Walking Tours Celebrity Haven: Unique Boutique Resorts – See a close-up of the inns and resorts that were and remain havens for the stars today. Many were designed and built after WWII when America’s appetite for Modern design was the rage. $45 (2.5 hrs) Check in at the Palm Springs Architecture and Design Center – 300 S Palm Canyon Dr Frank Sinatra’s Neighborhood: The Hollywood Elite – This tour affords a visual feast blending classic Spanish Colonial Revival with sleek midcentury Modern designs, including Frank Sinatra’s avant-garde modernist jewel by renowned architect E. Stewart Williams. $45 (2.5 hrs) Check in at The Movie Colony Corner of E Via Colusa and N Hermosa Dr. Giants of Architecture – See how desert Modern design was applied to commercial buildings in the heart of the fashion and finance district in Palm Springs. $45 (2 hrs) Check in at the Business District – Ramon Rd at 500 S Indian Canyon Dr, in front of US Bank. Heart of the City: Pioneers to Playground of the Stars -Explore the dynamic past and vibrant present of this world-famous desert getaway while strolling the Walk of Stars. Learn how Hollywood stars, part of our local scene, made Palm Springs their playground. $45 (2 hrs) Check in at Palm Springs Historical Society The McCallum Adobe – 221 S Palm Canyon Dr Hidden Paradise: Show Biz Legends’ Hideaways – The Mesa is a beautiful, secluded neighborhood with a fascinating assortment of eclectic architecture. It boasts one of Palm Springs’ most stunning architectural anomalies, the Santorini House. $45 (2.5 hrs) Check in at The Mesa neighborhood – Corner of S Mesa Dr and W Camino Carmelita. Inns, Architecture, and Glamour – See the vintage hotels still providing the “Rich and Famous” seclusion and relaxation. Stroll among these charming and beautiful boutique inns as you hear fascinating tales of history. $45 (2.5 hrs) Check in at Palm Springs Historical Society The McCallum Adobe – 221 S Palm Canyon Dr Rat Pack Playground: Modernist Homes – Discover the trendy midcentury Vista Las Palmas neighborhood, once nicknamed the “Beverly Hills of Palm Springs,” and view the homes now called “Alexanders,” developed by George and Robert Alexander. $45 (2.5 hrs) Check in at the Vista Las Palmas neighborhood – Corner of N Via Monte Vista and W Stevens Rd Shangri-La of the Stars: Midcentury Showcase – Stroll through this pristine midcentury neighborhood with its collection of elegant Modernist homes designed by the desert’s most revered architects. $45 (2.5 hrs) Check in at the Deepwell Estates neighborhood – Corner of E Mesquite Ave and Manzanita Ave Stars of The Movie Colony – The impressive Movie Colony neighborhood represents Hollywood’s Glamour Heyday with its mix of romantic Spanish Colonial Revival estates and elegant modernist homes. $45 (2.5 hrs) Check in at the Movie Colony neighborhood – Corner of N Avenida Caballeros & E Granvia Valmonte Modernism Week 2024 Self-Drive Tours Racquet Club Estates Midcentury Home Tour – (2/17) Tour these great examples of midcentury modern homes in the Racquet Club Estates neighborhood, complete with vintage cars and outfits. $70 (3.5 hrs) Check in at Racquet Club Estates Neighborhood Victoria Park – 2744 N Via Miraleste. Modern Garden Tour (2/21) The 14th annual Modern Garden Tour. $80 (3 hrs)—2 tour times, 9:00 am and 1:00 pm. Check in a CAMP. Signature Home Tour: Afternoon Tour–Modernism Week (2/18 & 2/25) – Take this self-driven home tour through various neighborhoods in Palm Springs featuring several iconic architectural homes by some of the most noted architects. $150 (3 to 3.5 hrs), 5 homes on this tour. Check in at CVEP – 3111 E Tahquitz Way. There is also a Morning Tour. Sustainable Homes Tour – (2/24) Tour some of the High Desert’s most sustainable homes. Learn about homes that not only generate their own power, but are doing it in style. $75 (6 hrs), 7 homes on this tour. Tour locations will be printed on your ticket. Indian Canyons Resort Modernism Home Tour – Tour the magnificent custom homes of Indian Canyons Resort designed by famous midcentury architects set among the lush fairways of the championship William Bell-designed golf course. $125 (3.15 hrs) 9:45 am – 1 pm. Check in at Indian Canyons Neighborhood – 1097 E Murray Canyon Dr. Albert Frey: A Symposium – Feb 14 The Albert Frey Symposium includes a presentation by four experts at the Annenberg Theater. Following the morning presentations, a box lunch will be provided in the sculpture garden, and the Frey exhibition book will be offered for sale with a book signing by the presenting authors. 9 am – 1 pm. After lunch, a self-driving tour of Frey sites will feature an architecture specialist at each site to provide insightful historical information. Symposium participants will be provided a map of the tour sites, including several Frey structure exteriors that can easily be viewed from the street. Frey House II Curated Shopping Event Curated Vintage Event – (2/24), Retailers and private dealers showcase their finest vintage apparel, luxury items, textiles, jewelry, and accessories. If fashion is your passion, this event is not to be missed. $25 First Dibs (9 – 10 am), $15 General Admission (10 am – 4 pm) Temple Isaiah-Warsaw Ballroom. 332 W. Alejo Road. Modernism Week 2024 Vintage Care Show Modernism Week Vintage Car Show – “Bikinis & Bucket Seats” is a tribute to the fun and sun of 1960s California youth culture. More than 50 vintage cars from the 1950s, 60s, 70s will be displayed at this free event.12:00 PM to 3:00 PM Free (no ticket needed). Palm Springs Convention Center – 277 N Avenida Caballeros Modernism Week Engaging Films FILM: “Brown vs. Brown”–The Tension of Midcentury Modernism in New Zealand – (2/16, 3 – 4:45 pm) A film on the late modernist architect Peter Mark-Brown, his legacy, Neutra’s influence, and New Zealand’s iconic midcentury homes, viewed through the lens of his filmmaker son, with Alan Hess in Q+A. Camp Theater. $15 (1.75 hrs) FILM: “Modernism, Inc.”–A New Documentary on Eliot Noyes – (2/18, 3 – 4:30 pm) The new documentary, Modernism, Inc., explores the rise and fall of American Modernism through the lens of one of its most influential practitioners, Eliot Noyes. Annenberg Theater, Palm Springs Art Museum – 101 N Museum Dr $ $18 (1.5 hrs) FILM: World Premiere of “New England Modernism–Revolutionary Architecture in the 20th Century” – (2/19, 6 & 7 pm) Emmy® award winning documentary filmmaker Jake Gorst premieres his feature-length documentary on Modern Architecture in New England 1930-1975, and its influence on contemporary architectural design. Annenberg Theater, Palm Springs Art Museum – 101 N Museum Dr $20 (7 pm, 2 hrs) for film only or $95 (6 pm, 3 hrs), which includes a pre-screening reception. Jimmy Van Heusen: Swingin’ in the Desert with Frank & Bing–Film and Panel Discussion – (2/20, 5 – 6:30 pm) Meet Jimmy Van Heusen, the composer more swingin’ than Sinatra! A look at the glamorous life and remarkable music of the four-time Oscar-winning songwriter who spent decades in Palm Springs. Annenberg Theater, Palm Springs Art Museum – 101 N Museum Dr $18 (1.5 hrs) Palm Springs Plays Itself: A Vintage Home Movie Cocktail Hour with Deserted Films – (2/21, 3:30 – 4:30 pm) Local home movie film archive, Deserted Films, will screen and provide entertaining context for a selection of amateur vintage 16mm, 8mm and Super 8 films shot in and around Palm Springs. Camp Theater. $25 (1 hr) FILM: “Back to the House of Tomorrow” – (2/21, 4:30 – 5:30) Back by popular demand! Discover the story of a house important for its role in Palm Springs and Hollywood history and for its personal themes of family and community, tragedy, and renewal. Annenberg Theater, Palm Springs Art Museum – 101 N Museum Dr $15 (1 hr) FILM: “Albert Frey: The Architectural Envoy – Part I” – (2/21, 9 – 10 am) Swiss-born architect Albert Frey introduced Corbusian-influenced modernism to the United States and developed an extraordinary design style, blending industrial techniques and a love of nature. Camp Theater. $15 (1 hr) or $30 for parts I & II. FILM: “Albert Frey: The Architectural Interpreter – Part II”– (2/25, 10:30 – Noon) In 1939, Swiss-born architect Albert Frey embarked on a decades-long journey of discovery. His world travels, and love of nature would lead him to a new style of modernism in Palm Springs. Camp Theater. $15 (1.5 hrs) You May Also Like: The Shag Store Vintage Shop ‘Til You Drop Uptown Vintage Shopping
Pride in Paradise Tue, October 31, 2023 by Randy Garner Palm Springs LGBTQ Best Life Palm Springs, with its stunning desert landscapes, vibrant culture, and inclusive community, has long been recognized as a haven for the LGBTQ+ community. The city offers a safe and welcoming space for visitors and residents, where people from all walks of life can come together to celebrate their identities, express themselves freely, and embrace the abundant pride that fills the air. Let’s explore why Palm Springs is such a beloved destination for LGBTQ+ individuals, highlighting the annual Pride celebrations, LGBTQ+ history, and the vibrant community that makes this desert paradise truly special. A History of Acceptance Palm Springs has a deep-rooted history of LGBTQ acceptance and inclusivity, often intertwined with its close connection to Hollywood. In the mid-20th century, Palm Springs became a popular destination for Hollywood stars looking to escape the constraints of the studio system and enjoy a retreat in the desert. This influx of celebrities helped shape the city’s tolerant and welcoming atmosphere. During this time, many Palm Springs LGBTQ individuals sought solace here, finding a refuge where they could express themselves more freely compared to the restrictive social norms of the era. Numerous LGBTQ actors, musicians, and artists began to call Palm Springs their home, building a vibrant queer community within the city. One notable figure who contributed to the acceptance of LGBTQ people in Palm Springs was Liberace. The famed pianist and entertainer owned a home in the city and was one of the first prominent celebrities to embrace his flamboyant personality and gay identity openly. His presence helped normalize LGBTQ visibility in Palm Springs and inspired others to live more authentically. Another significant LGBTQ Hollywood connection is Rock Hudson, who had a residence in Palm Springs. Hudson was a beloved leading man in the film industry but lived in fear of his sexual orientation being exposed due to the rampant homophobia of the time. Despite the secrecy surrounding his personal life, Hudson’s choice to make Palm Springs his home added to the city’s reputation as a sanctuary for LGBTQ individuals. Rock Hudson at the Racquet Club As LGBTQ individuals continued to establish roots in Palm Springs, the community grew and blossomed. Gay-friendly establishments flourished, including bars, hotels, and restaurants catering to LGBTQ clientele. These spaces became gathering spots for the community to connect, socialize, and celebrate their identities. Annual Palm Springs Pride Celebrations Our happening hometown has a large, vibrant lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender community. No matter which part of the LGBTQ+ acronym best captures your essence, you’ll find camaraderie galore in our fair city. Greater Palm Springs Pride: The history of Palm Springs Pride dates back to 1986 when a small group of LGBTQ+ activists organized the first Pride march in Palm Springs. At that time, the march was primarily a political demonstration aimed at raising awareness about LGBTQ+ rights and advocating for equality. Over the years, Palm Springs Pride has grown significantly in size and scope. It has become one of the most significant Pride events in Southern California, attracting thousands of visitors from all over the country and beyond. The festival now includes the iconic Pride Parade and a diverse range of activities catering to people of all ages and interests. One of the main highlights of Palm Springs Pride is the parade, which typically takes place on the final day of the festival. The parade features colorful floats, marching bands, community organizations, local businesses, and individuals who unite to express their pride and solidarity with the LGBTQ+ community. Transgender Day of Remembrance: Held in November each year, this event honors the lives of transgender individuals who have been lost to violence and discrimination. It includes a candlelight vigil, guest speakers, and educational workshops focused on transgender issues. Transgender Health and Wellness Center. Harvey Milk Diversity Breakfast: Inspired by the late civil rights activist Harvey Milk, this breakfast event brings together community leaders, activists, and allies for a morning of reflection, dialogue, and celebration of diversity. Held at the Palm Springs Convention Center. AIDS Walk: The annual AIDS Walk in Palm Springs is a community-driven event that raises funds and awareness for HIV/AIDS organizations. Participants gather to walk or run a designated route while showing support for those affected by the disease. DAP Health. Thanks to its rich history and LGBTQ-friendly atmosphere, Palm Springs has remained a progressive and accepting destination for LGBTQ individuals. The connection with Hollywood icons who bravely lived their truths in Palm Springs significantly shaped the city’s embrace of LGBTQ culture. This legacy continues to make Palm Springs a cherished paradise for the LGBTQ community, seeking acceptance, celebration, and a sense of belonging. Girls Love Dinah & Boys Love White The Dinah, also known as Club Skirts Dinah Shore Weekend, is a highly anticipated annual event in Palm Springs that specifically caters to the lesbian community. It is considered the world’s largest lesbian event and attracts women worldwide for a weekend of celebration, music, parties, and entertainment. The Dinah offers a diverse lineup of activities and performances throughout the weekend. These include live musical performances by popular artists, DJ sets, comedy shows, pool parties, dance parties, and various themed events. Attendees can expect a vibrant and inclusive atmosphere where they can socialize, connect with others, and enjoy the company of like-minded individuals. The Dinah is an exciting and empowering event that celebrates the diversity and strength of the lesbian community. It offers a unique opportunity for women to connect, celebrate their identities, and enjoy a memorable weekend in Palm Springs. Credit: Molly Adams The White Party Global is a renowned annual event in Palm Springs that specifically caters to the gay male community. It is one of the most prominent and longest-running circuit parties in the world, attracting thousands of attendees from all over the globe. The White Party offers a variety of activities and experiences throughout the weekend. These include world-class DJ sets by renowned artists, live performances by celebrated entertainers, themed parties at various venues, pool parties, dance events, and special celebrity appearances. The music genres played range from high-energy dance beats to popular hits, ensuring an electrifying and immersive experience for attendees. The White Party has become synonymous with inclusivity and a celebration within the gay male community. It provides a space where individuals can express themselves freely, connect with like-minded individuals, and revel in the festive and welcoming atmosphere. The Hottest Hotspots on Arenas Palm Springs is renowned for its vibrant LGBTQ+ scene, and its gay bars play a significant role in fostering a sense of community, providing safe spaces for self-expression, and offering unforgettable experiences for locals and visitors alike. Here are some popular gay bars in the Arenas District. Hunters Nightclub is one of the city’s longest-running gay bars. With its spacious dance floor, lively atmosphere, and regular drag shows, it attracts a diverse crowd. Its outdoor patio offers a relaxed setting to socialize and enjoy cocktails. Chill Bar is a lively venue known for its friendly staff, vibrant events, and themed nights. It features a large outdoor courtyard, multiple bars, regular drag performances, DJ nights, and karaoke. Chill Bar is a popular spot for locals and tourists alike. Streetbar is a classic Palm Springs gay bar with a laid-back vibe. Its retro décor, pool tables, and live entertainment make it a local favorite. Whether you’re looking for a casual drink or a fun night out, Streetbar offers a welcoming space. Blackbook is a stylish and upscale bar known for its craft cocktails and extensive bourbon menu. It offers an intimate setting for conversation, relaxation, and socializing. While it identifies as a bar, Blackbook has an award-winning menu with show-stopping flavors. Dicks on Arenas offers a unique and inclusive space where individuals can embrace their personal style and explore their interests in leather and alternative lifestyles. The bar has a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere, attracting locals and tourists who share a passion for the leather scene. These are just a few examples of the diverse gay bars in the Arenas District. Each venue offers a unique style, ambiance, and events, ensuring something for everyone. Whether you are seeking a high-energy dance party, a relaxed lounge setting, or a place to connect with like-minded individuals, Palm Springs’ gay bars have got you covered. Inclusive Community Palm Springs has built a reputation as an inclusive and accepting community that welcomes everyone with open arms. From LGBTQ+-owned businesses to LGBTQ+ organizations offering support and resources, this desert oasis has cultivated a strong sense of community. Desert Business Association (DBA) is a business networking organization that supports LGBTQ+-owned and LGBTQ+-friendly businesses in the Coachella Valley region, including Palm Springs. It provides resources and opportunities for collaboration and helps foster a strong LGBTQ+ business community. LGBT Community Center of the Desert is a hub for LGBTQ+ individuals in Palm Springs and offers various resources, support groups, and programs. It also collaborates with local businesses to foster inclusivity and provide networking opportunities. These organizations, among others, help create a supportive environment for Palm Springs LGBTQ+ businesses and contribute to the overall growth and prosperity of the community. Palm Springs Gay Men’s Chorus The Gay Men’s Chorus in Palm Springs is a vibrant and inclusive musical organization that celebrates the LGBTQ+ community through the power of music. The chorus consists of talented and passionate singers who come together to create beautiful harmonies and spread a message of love, acceptance, and equality. The chorus performs a diverse range of music, including traditional choral pieces, pop hits, show tunes, and contemporary songs. Their performances are known for their high energy, exceptional vocal skills, and engaging stage presence, making them a beloved fixture in the local arts scene. In addition to regular concerts throughout the year, the Gay Men’s Chorus also collaborates with other community organizations and participates in various events and fundraisers. They use their platform to raise awareness about LGBTQ+ issues and promote inclusivity and understanding. KGay 106.5 FM With its diverse range of music, engaging talk shows, and entertaining hosts, locally owned KGay 106.5 FM offers a unique and inclusive listening experience. The station takes pride in its mission to provide a safe space for the LGBTQ+ community, offering a platform to share stories, discuss important issues, and celebrate diversity. KGay 106.5 FM promotes equality, acceptance, and empowerment through its content. Tune in. Celebrate Pride, Palm Springs Style Palm Springs truly encapsulates the spirit of pride, acceptance, and celebration for LGBTQ+ individuals visiting or living in the area. With its rich LGBTQ+ history, annual Pride celebrations, inclusive community, outdoor recreation, and vibrant arts and nightlife scenes, this desert paradise continues to be a sanctuary where everyone can be their authentic selves. Whether seeking a weekend getaway or considering making Palm Springs your home, you’ll be embraced by a warm, supportive community that celebrates diversity and fosters a sense of pride in every aspect of life. You May Also Like: Palm Springs Gay History Palm Springs Celebrates Pride Throughout the Year Come Out, Come Out, However You Are!
Unveiling the Jewel: Villa Royale Palm Springs Mon, October 30, 2023 by Randy Garner Nestled in the heart of south Palm Springs, Villa Royale is a haven of elegance and tranquility. This Mediterranean-inspired boutique hotel offers a memorable experience with its unique combination of stunning architecture, exceptional service, and a culinary destination known as Del Rey. Villa Royale Palm Springs: A Rich History Villa Royale has a fascinating history dating back to 1947, originally built as a desert hideaway for Hollywood’s elite. Over the years, it has hosted iconic celebrities who were drawn to its secluded charm and breathtaking surroundings. The timeless allure of this historic property adds a touch of glamour to every stay. It is said that Irving Shulman, the man credited with writing “Rebel Without a Cause,” wrote a large portion at Villa Royale during his stay. Exceptional Architectural Beauty The moment you enter Villa Royale, you are greeted by the hotel’s exquisite architecture. Designed with a Mission Revival Style aesthetic and that old California charm, this 3.5-acre property boasts an array of charming courtyards, intimate gardens, and soothing water features. Each room and suite is meticulously designed, showcasing stylish vintage furnishings and stunning unique artwork that creates an atmosphere of sophistication and relaxation. The hotel comprises two spaces — the main complex houses 30 of Villa Royale’s 37 rooms, and across South Indian Trail Road is Villa Rosa, seven California ranch-style villas around a pool that mirror the design features of Villa Royale. The Lanai Exquisite Accommodations & Service Villa Royale offers a variety of accommodations to suit every preference. From cozy single rooms to spacious suites, each space is thoughtfully designed to provide the utmost comfort and tranquility. Wake up to stunning views of the San Jacinto Mountains or unwind on your private terrace, surrounded by lush greenery. Modern amenities, plush bedding, and elegant décor ensure a truly indulgent stay. The attentive staff under the direction of general manager Phillip Conner is warm and caring, providing guests with a level of service that makes this Palm Springs visit relaxing and effortless. Recent million-dollar updates to the property include a dual-entry main pool, guest room refresh including new beds, bedding and artwork, new lobby décor and art, fire pit and large jacuzzi spa, and updated landscaping and torch lighting. Updates to Del Rey include Gucci tiger leaf print wallpaper, tan velvet upholstered walls, and handmade Moroccan light fixtures on the new covered terrace. Artwork additions include photography by David Bailey, and pieces by Anish Kapoor and Damien Hirst. Adults Only. Biscayne Room Villa Royale Palm Springs Amenities The resort fee provides access to exclusive amenities. Enjoy a beer or cocktail at check-in (or water). Wake up to a continental breakfast and morning coffee service. Includes WiFi throughout the property and onsite complimentary Huffy bikes. Rooms include a minibar. They partnered with Leus Towels on a special XL Eco Beach Towel. The towels are available for sale at the front desk. Villa Royale is pet friendly, and they can provide a pet bed, bowls, toy, and tasty treat. Free Parking. Villa Royale Original Art Villa Royale is home to an original, commissioned collection of more than 50 large-format oil paintings by Juan Antonio Casas, Lou Kregal and Sara Radovanovitch, which were painted on site in the year prior to the hotel’s opening. These artists lived and painted at the property for weeks at a time, separately and together, channeling the history and vibe of Palm Springs in their eclectic, respective bodies of work, featuring desert landscapes, classic cars and icons of popular culture, film and music. Along many lush pathways on Villa Royale’s grounds, guests will also find vibrant murals adorning the walls. Cheyenne Randle, a Los Angeles-based artist & muralist, created wheat paste murals that warmly greets visitors as they park and Villa Royale. Del Rey: World-Class Dining At Villa Royale, food enthusiasts have an exceptional dining experience at Del Rey, the hotel’s renowned restaurant. Under the leadership of Chef Alex Lopez, Del Rey embraces a farm-to-table philosophy, incorporating fresh, locally sourced ingredients focusing on a fusion of Mediterranean and California flavors. The restaurant’s intimate ambiance, warm lighting, and elegant décor provide the perfect setting for an exquisite dining experience and was refreshed along the same vision of Villa Royale. Enjoy a leisurely meal in the chic and intimate dining room, on the new covered terrace or outdoor patio and savor the starlit desert sky. Guests of Villa Royale have priority access to Del Rey. Dinner 5 – 10 pm daily. Happy Hour 4-6 pm Friday-Wednesday. Del Rey Noche de Paella Thursdays: Inspired by Basque country bars and traditions originating from the Valencia region of Spain, Del Rey presents Noche de Paella! Join Del Rey every other Thursday night from October to May for an evening under the desert moonlight. Celebrate good flavors in the company of good people. Each week’s gathering will highlight a five-course menu featuring a pintxo, ensalada, tapa, and one of the best-known dishes in Spanish cuisine….paella! Paella is a popular Spanish dish that originated in the Valencia region. It is a flavorful and vibrant rice dish cooked in a large, shallow pan called a “paellera.” Saffron gives the rice a distinct yellow color and adds a unique flavor. Other seasonings like paprika, garlic, and parsley are also used. Other ingredients include chicken, shrimp, and mussels, but these can vary. The Paella Night dinner are held on Thursdays during season with one seating at 6:30 pm. Parties of up to four guests can book on OpenTable. For parties of five or more, call 760-327-2314. Vegetarian options are available. No cash, please. All Photos Credit: Villa Royale You May Also Like: Roar into the New ‘20s at Bar Cecil Historic Palm Springs Hotels Discover Holiday House and Sparrows Lodge
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