celebrity tour palm springs

Palm Springs Celebrity Homes Tour | Free Map & Guide

Get starry-eyed with this DIY, Palm Springs celebrity home tour! Walk, bike or drive your way by 27 homes of classic Hollywood royalty, from Marilyn Monroe to Cary Grant. Explore in your own time and vehicle with this self-guided tour. For places to eat, play and stay while you’re in town, see this Palm Springs guide .

Table of contents

Why was palm springs such a celebrity hotspot, about this celebrity homes tour, 1. elvis presley estate – 845 w chino canyon road (little tuscany), 2. zsa zsa gabor – 595 w chino canyon drive (little tuscany), 3. kaufmann house (barry manilow) – 470 vista chino (little tuscany), 4. jack benny estate – 424 w. vista chino (little tuscany), 5. alan ladd – 323 camino norte west (old las palmas), 6. dinah shore & george montgomery – 317 camino norte west (old las palmas), 7. liberace house – 1441 north kaweah (old las palmas), 8. marilyn monroe – 1326 north rose ave (vista las palmas), 9. nat “king” cole – 1258 north rose ave (vista las palmas), 10. elvis honeymoon hideaway – 1350 ladera circle (vista las palmas), 11. lawford-kennedy estate – 1295 north via monte vista (vista las palmas), 12. cyd charisse & tony martin – 1197 n via monte vista (vista las palmas), 13. dean martin house – 1123 n via monte vista (vista las palmas), 14. kirk douglas – 515 west via lola (old las palmas), 15. goldie hawn & kurt russell – 550 w lola (old las palmas), 16. dinah shore estate – 432 hermosa place (old las palmas), 17. elizabeth taylor – 417 hermosa place (old las palmas), 18. liberace – 226 alejo road/501 belardo road, palm springs, 19. frank sinatra – 1145 e vía colusa, 20. hedy lamarr – 1232 east el alameda (movie colony), 21. bob & delores hope – 1188 east el alameda (movie colony), 22. bing crosby – 1101 east el alameda (movie colony), 23. kirk douglas – 1069 east marshall way (movie colony), 24. truman capote – 853 east paseo el mirador (movie colony), 25. lucille ball & desi arnez – 1194 north via miraleste (movie colony), 26. cary grant – 928 north avenida palmas (movie colony), 27. al jolson – 570 north via corta (movie colony), more celebrity sites in palm springs, palm springs celebrity homes map.

Following World War II, Palm Springs became a popular winter escape for Hollywood royalty and wealthy industrialists from the east coast. Movie industry lore tells us that Hollywood studios contracted their stars to be available within two-hours notice. Palm Springs fulfilled the need for a desirable resort town within a short commute of Los Angeles.

Where the glamorous went, the wealthy followed and they all wanted to look as cool as their neighbours! Custom vacation homes were commissioned from leading architects, complete with the latest gadgets and trendiest designs.

Recently, Palm Springs has seen a resurgence as a new generation of Hollywood elite and influencers embrace the desert destination. Also, the resort town’s outstanding architectural history is being recognised on a broader scale, drawing Mid-Century Modern fans from all over the world with events such as Modernism Week. Should Mid-Century Modern design be right up your alley, also check out my Palm Springs self-guided architecture tour here.

A few important notes before we get started on this Palm Springs celebrity home tour:

• Former and current celebrity abodes can be found all over Palm Springs. Many of today’s stars keep to gated communities and even some of the older homes are in secure estates (no, you won’t be able to do a drive-by of the Kardashian’s place). Therefore, this tour is confined to publicly accessible streets where you can observe from the sidewalk.
• I’m sure I don’t have to tell you this, dear reader, but a reminder to be respectful of homeowners and their property. Imagine it is your front yard and treat it accordingly. Let’s NOT be the people who use strangers’ front doors for Instagram photoshoots or trod through their gardens. Just be cool, ok?!
• The scope for “celebrity homes” in Palm Springs is pretty much endless if you include movie directors, film producers, homes used as movie locations, authors and so on. In the interest of keeping this tour to under a couple of hours in length, I have eliminated out-of-the-way properties and focused on those across the Little Tuscany, Vista Las Palmas, Las Palmas and Movie Colony neighbourhoods where there is a high concentration of A-lister’s abodes. If you have the time and enthusiasm, I have marked some of the additional properties on the map below.
• Finally, this is a self-drive, skate, ride, cycle tour of about 9.6km (6mi), which would take about 25-30mins to drive without stopping.

Let’s get underway…

Wait, one last thing before we get started. Get yourself this Spotify playlist for a little Palm Springs mood music, featuring the musicians and singers listed below, plus more from the 50s and 60s Hollywood heyday.

Palm Spring celebrity homes self-guided tour

Make your way to our first property at 845 W Chino Canyon Road, one of two properties often associated with Elvis Presley in Palm Springs. The performer recorded nine songs at the residence some refer to as “Graceland West”. The West Chino Canyon home was under Presley’s ownership at the time of his death and four years after his passing, sold to Frankie Valli.

The home was designed by Desert Modernism star-chitect, Albert Frey , in a Spanish Colonial ranch style that he did not employ often. Apparently, Elvis bought the home from Richard “Dick” McDonald, co-founder of the McDonald’s fast-food chain.

Travel east along West Chino Canyon Drive and not far from Elvis’ abode, you’ll find one of several residences Zsa Zsa Gabor is said to have occupied, although she did not own this one. The 4-bedroom home was built in 1968 and may have belonged to Los Angeles interior designer Hamilton Garland.

Kaufmann House is a “celebrity” home on so many levels…The original owner, Edgar J. Kaufmann, was a department store mogul whose other vacation property is the Frank Lloyd Wright-designed Fallingwater in Pennsylvania . He commissioned well-known architect Richard Neutra to design this custom desert home—a modernist masterpiece—which he later sold to Barry Manilow.  Whether you realise it or not, you’ve probably seen the uber-famous Poolside Gossip photos taken by Slim Aarons in 1970 by the Kaufmann House pool.

Take a right at N Via Norte and again at W Vista Chino, and the blush house right there on the corner is our next stop. Formerly owned by Jack Benny, entertainer across vaudeville, radio and screen, the 1950s home was re-modelled in the mid-90s. Fortunately, it retains its Mid-Century charm whilst sporting a millennial pink hue.

Follow W Vista Chino has it veers left and take the second left into Camino Norte. On the right hand side you will first pass actor, Alan Ladd’s former home which he shared with his wife, Sue. Ladd was an actor known for his roles in cowboy classics This Gun for Hire and Shane . He also established the Ladd Hardware Store that for many years was located at The Five Hundred building at 500 South Palm Canyon Drive.

Ladd’s Mid-Century Modern home has serious design cred. The Donald Wexler design was featured on the Palm Springs Modernism Week 2019 A Peek Behind the Hedges Tour . In an ugly turn, Ladd was found dead in this home in early 1964 after overdosing on sedatives and alcohol.

Right next door you’ll find number 317—the former home of songstress and actress Dinah Shore and husband, actor George Montgomery. The home design is believed to be the work of famed architect, William Cody who is responsible for a number of stunning Mid-Mod buildings in Palm Springs including the Del Marcos Hotel.

A few steps away on the corner of North Kaweah Rd, let the statues and piano-shaped mailbox lead you to Liberace House aka Piazza di Liberace . This is one of four homes owned by the man who was once the world’s highest-paid pianist, and one of six properties he owned in the broader Coachella Valley. Old neighbours of the performer recalled hearing him play his piano in the evenings, and on Halloween night he would give out silver dollars to trick-or-treaters.

Continue on West Stevens Road and take a left at North Rose Avenue. At number 1326 you’ll find the bungalow once rented by Marilyn Monroe. The 1950s built home has four bedrooms and 3 bathrooms. It was not far from here at Charlie Farrell’s Racquet Club, where Marilyn (still Norma Jean at that stage) was spotted by the pool by talent agent Johnny Hyde.

A few houses down the street, look for Nat “King” Cole’s former vacation home. 1258 North Rose Avenue was also owned by his daughter, Natalie Cole. Unfortunately, you won’t see much here due to the home’s lush front garden and there’s no pink cadillac in the driveway.

Take three consecutive left-hand turns and you’ll find yourself in a short cul-de-sac where the House of Tomorrow aka Elvis Honeymoon Hideaway is located. This home is famous for being a cutting-edge Mid-Century design with the most tech-forward amenities of the day.

It is also where Elvis Presley and wife Priscilla spent most of 1966 as newlyweds. The couple are reported to have thrown lavish parties in the four-bedroom, five-bathroom abode. Its quite the party house, featuring an in-ground pool, tennis court and chef’s kitchen. The House of Tomorrow sold in 2020 for a $2.6 million. For more Elvis abodes, see these things to do in Memphis .

This mid-century home was originally constructed for actor and Rat Pack member Peter Lawford. Apparently, his brother-in-law, President Kennedy, stayed here when he visited Palm Springs. The house can now be rented , starting at $300 per night.

Two houses down from the Lawford-Kennedy Estate is the former home of actress and dancer Cyd Charisse and her actor-husband Tony Martin. The 1957-built residence was last sold in 2020 for $1.535 million. 

Another Rat Pack member lived only a few houses down. He bought this home with his second wife Jeanne in the 1960s for $56,000 (the equivalent of about $525,000 today). The couple’s grandchildren were often spotted with a lemonade stand out front. Jeanne got the house when here and Dean divorced. Unfortunately, now it is quite run down.

Take a left into Cam Sur, right down Mission Road and right again into West Via Lola. On the left you’ll see number 515 which once belonged to the actor, Kirk Douglas. Douglas is known for roles in films such as Gunfight at the O.K. Corral, Lust for Life and Spartacus , and as the father of actor Michael Douglas. He bought the home at 1069 East Marshall Way in 1955, before purchasing this five-bedroom property designed by Richard Harrison and Donald Wexler.

Continue on West Via Lola and right before it veers left into North Patencio Road, is the 1974-constructed winter escape of actors Goldie Hawn and Kurt Russell.

A short distance down North Patencia Road left into Hermosa Place. On the left you’ll find Dinah Shore Estate, now owned by Leonardo Dicaprio. The $4500 per night rental is set on 1.3 acres, has six bedrooms, 7.5-bathrooms, a tennis court, pool and grand piano. The home was a 1964 Donald Wexler design noted by mid-century modern architecture enthusiasts.

Directly opposite is a large, Spanish Colonial-style estate built in the 1930s by a Las Vegas businessman. Its most famous resident was Elizabeth Taylor.

Backtrack down Hermosa and turn south onto North Patencio Rd. Turn left into Vine Avenue and again into West Alejo Road. On the left, at the corner of Belardo Road is another Liberace property in a Colonial Spanish style dubbed The Cloisters when it was a boutique hotel in the 60s. This home was purchased by the Grammy-winner in 1967 and remodelled with various themed rooms. The performer is said to have died here in February 1987.

Crossing over Palm Canyon Drive into The Movie Colony estate, our first stop is 1145 E Via Colusa, the address of Frank Sinatra’s Twin Palms Estate. If you could see through the fencing you’d be caught up in the 1947 E. Stewart Williams, Mid-Century design and piano-shaped swimming pool.

You can’t see much of this home once leased by Hedy Lamar, actress and inventor, the azalea-framed pink door is worth a peek.

Just across the street is the home Bob and Delores Hope purchased prior to commissioning their futuristic, John Lautner-designed residence (located in a gated community). The five-bedroom house on El Alameda was built in 1935.

Singer, Bing Crosby purchased this home with first wife Dixie Lee and lived there with their four children. The four-bedroom, Spanish Colonial-style home was constructed in 1934.

The aforementioned Kirk Douglas property he owned prior to moving to the Old Las Palmas neighbourhood.

The author of Breakfast at Tiffany’s and In Cold Blood rented and then purchased this home in 1968.

Sometimes called “The Lucy House”, the six-bedroom abode is now rented for events and as a vacation home starting from $876 per night. From the outside, you won’t see much more than a ficus hedge and gate. On the inside, it’s a beautifully restored Spanish Colonial.

Also known as “Las Palomas”, this 1927-built Movie Colony home once belonged to Cary Grant and his wife Betsey Drake. Inspired by Spanish farmhouses, the property features the original royal blue shutters and wood-burning fireplace.

Curiously, Al Jolson owned this property twice in his lifetime. He commissioned the construction of the home with wife Ruby Keeler in the 1930s. After they spent the majority of their time at the El Mirador Hotel, he sold it. Later in the mid-1940s after Jolson had divorced Keeler and remarried, his wife Erie Galbraith coincidently selected the home.

Ladies and gentlemen, that concludes our tour for today. Again, check out some of the purple and orange pins on the map for additional properties outside this route. These include homes along with clubs and restaurants that were known celebrity hangouts, namely:

• Copley’s Restaurant, located in the guesthouse of Cary Grant’s former estate.
• Melvyn’s where The Rat Pack liked to party.
• Willows Historic Palm Springs Inn which has hosted Albert Einstein among other celebrities.
• The Purple Room, another Rat Pack hangout.

Get this celebrity home tour map by clicking in the top righthand corner, and saving a copy to use later. Maps are saved to your Google Drive so you need to log in to your Google account to do this.

If you would like to nominate a property that is missing or share your favourite—please leave a comment below.

Peace, love & inspiring travel,

How to Experience Peranakan Culture in Singapore

Unique things to do in palm springs & surrounds.

Thank you so much for providing this information.

Leave a Comment Cancel Reply

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Don't subscribe All new comments Replies to my comments Notify me of followup comments via e-mail. You can also subscribe without commenting.

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

This website uses cookies to improve your experience. We'll assume you're ok with this, but you can opt-out if you wish. Accept Read More

Celebrities in Palm Springs – where they live & play

For decades Palm Springs has been a favorite destination for the stars.  You can find star home maps listing homes that belonged to the likes of Liberace , Debbie Reynolds or Frank Sinatra .

But even celebrities that are popular today, like Kim Kardashian and Leonardo DiCaprio that are perhaps a little more familiar to the hipster and Gen X crowd are also choosing to chill in Palm Springs.

Find celebrities in Palm Springs

While you can definitely Google up all kinds of celebrity homes, haunts and hangouts and figure out a way to see these places yourself, a really great idea is to take a tour, but not just any tour. Modern Tours Palm Springs offers safe, self-guided driving tours done in your own vehicle and they have a fun and fascinating Celebrity Home Tour . The online tour uses Google maps to navigate you easily from celebrity house to celebrity house and gives you lots of information and shares cool photographs too. If you still want to go it alone, here are a few fun spots to stop…

Leonardo DiCaprio’s home in Palm Springs

Hands down Leo is the most famous star to own property in Palm Springs today.  Leonardo DiCaprio bought singer/actress Dinah Shore’s former home at 432 Hermosa, which was designed by top architect Donald Wexler back in 1964.

The home is  a chic getaway for the A-list actor, though when he’s not using it, he lets others use to the property too; even ordinary types like you and me.  Well, that is if you can afford the steep price tag. The home is for rent for about $4500/night via a a website 432Hermosa.com. Why not gather up about 40 or 50 of your closest pals and pool your funds for a night of celebrity fun?

President Obama & Family

After leaving behind the most stressful job in the world, former President Barack Obama flew directly to the Palm Springs area where he closed himself into a local golf club property in Rancho Mirage and tried to blend in with other everyday Americans.

If the former President ever decided to buy a place in Palm Springs he’d have his pick of amazing homes with celebrity pedigrees.  Several places have gone on the market recently that would be perfect for a president. While Bob Hope’s former home sold after years on the market, a home once owned by Howard Huges and Eva Gabor is currently for sale.

If you want to know how a former president might go about exploring the Palm Springs area, read our blog Top 3 Things President Obama Should See & Do in Palm Springs.

The Kardashian family’s Palm Springs compound

Photo courtesy MLS/realtor.com

Momager Kris Jenner apparently dropped about $12 million on a sprawling La Quinta home. The 7-bedroom, 10-bathroom mansion  was built in 2016 and features an uber-modern design that stretches to 14,500 square feet inside and boasts a further 11,000 square feet of outdoor space including its expansive pool. Beautiful  mountain and golf course views are free! The home is in a gated community so it’s not visible to the general public, providing plenty of privacy for when Kim Kardashian, Kourtney, Kloe or siblings Kendall Jenner or Kylie Jenner want to meet up during the area’s annual Coachella Valley Music and Arts Festival .

Suzanne Somers’ Palm Springs home

Also on the market is the Palm Springs compound of Three’s Company actress and Thighmaster (remember those commercials!?) pitchwoman extraordinaire Suzanne Somers . Listed for a cool $14.5 million the property clings to the side of a mountain in a neighborhood south of the city centre, and can be accessed via its own funicular.

Somers has owned the property since 1977, but it was built back in the 1920’s. No word if she’s packing it in from desert life or looking to relocate or downsize, but you can see the home listing here .

Where did Robert Downey Jr hang out in Palm Springs?

The legendary actor may play superheroes, but during a November 2000 visit to the hotel property ‘Merv Griffin’s Hotel and Givenchy Spa,’ now known as The Parker, Robert Downey Jr. was made out as the villain when he was arrested by Palm Springs Police on drug charges. The entire episode was a media circus. Even so, Downey has apparently returned to Palm Springs since , and even stayed again at The Parker.

Brad Pitt & Angelina Jolie’s desert getaway

Speaking of The Parker, the chic hotel was also the spot where Brad Pitt and Angelina Jolie spent some time before news of their now-ill-fated romance and marriage went public. The hotel was also the site where the infamous “domestic bliss” photo of the couple posing with children was shot, for the cover of W Magazine.

The duo have returned to Palm Springs for the Palm Springs International Film Festival.

From the golden age of Hollywood, to the Rat Pack era, to today, Palm Springs remains a favorite getaway for celebrities of all stripes. Do you have a favorite star who also loves Palm Springs? Tell us who and we might feature them!

Photos courtesy 432hermosa.com, W Magazine/ Steven Klein , hillsideluxuryestatepalmsprings.com,

Palm Springs Traveller Staff

C E L E B R I T Y  T O U R S

Nationally rated top five percent, meet the guides.

Tim and Celia Bannister

Gotta Love This Job!” As the owner Tim strives for the most knowledgeable, and entertaining talent available when it comes to the use of “Your” $$$. Tim has been in the tour business for the past 18 years and in Palm Springs for 8. He has created a unique and fresh approach to his tour as he works his way through the neighborhoods. Simply put  “I want to paint a picture for folks; starting abstractly and in the end pulling it together into a masterpiece that they wont forget”. Join Tim in his now famous “Count of the Eccentrics”, learn about Date Production and every mans harem, the history of the wind energy generators (windmills), and his trivia known as “Expiring minds want to know”.

Tim married Celia De Almeida May 7 2016, who he met in 2010 at their local churches “Vacation Bible School” of all places. Their honeymoon (pictures on left) was a 12,484 mile trek on Tim’s 1999 Honda Valkyrie (known as “The Dragon”) motorcycle. From Ontario, CA to Washington DC with “Run For The Wall” veterans run, then on to Dominion, Cape Breton, Nova Scotia. From there to West Virginia, Niagara Falls, through Michigan’s U.P. to Washington State and back. “I have been blessed to have visited 49 states, and 4 Canadian provinces. I love to hear from our visitors, where they are from, and the experiences they share about their hometown.

Update 2017 – Traveled for a second year with “Run For The Wall” before heading south to Key West, around the Gulf of Mexico, through Texas, and back to Palm Springs. This year though Celia rode her own bike, a 2011 Can Am Spyder RT a total of just under 8,500 miles.

Rick Metzger

Rick is pictured here at the Palm Springs home of Elvis Presley. Rick is a veteran of over 2,000 tours of Palm Springs Celebrity homes.

A native Californian born in Long Beach, California, Rick has spent most of his life here in the desert between Palmdale in the north and Borrego Springs in the south, and for decades has considered Palm Springs to be his home. “Doing tours of movie star and television star’s homes is a wonderful job”, says Rick, “and working for Celebrity Tours is a dream come true”.

Rick has been fortunate to meet many celebrities in his life, including a long-time Hollywood movie star and full time Palm Springs resident he met in 2022; you’ll have to ask Rick to find out who that star is.

Rick is happily married to his wife, Maylene, and they have 2 kids and 5 grandkids. Rick and Maylene live near downtown Palm Springs so they enjoy the ambiance and culture of the rich movie star history here in town every day. Says Rick, “I grew up in the desert and I appreciate the beauty and the weather of the Coachella Valley, and I love to have tourists experience that with me all year long.”

Rick shares with all his tour guests the rich history of Palm Springs, facts about the nearly windmill farms, the local Native American history, and he draws on his lifelong interest in architecture to explore Mid-Century Modernism homes for tour guests—“Palm Springs is the Modernism architectural capital of the world” says Rick, and many of the celebrity homes are also examples of spectacular Modernism architecture. Take a quick-wit sense of humor and blend that with countless stories about the movie stars and their careers at dozens of their homes along the route, and you have Rick. Ride along with him as he takes you up close and personal to the doorsteps of Hollywood’s biggest star’s Palm Springs homes for an unforgettable experience.

John Stark has been doing tours since he moved to Palm Springs in 2018. He is a veteran journalist who spent 10 years as a Senior Writer at People magazine in New York. Before that, he was a movie critic and feature writer at the San Francisco Examiner. He knows his stars and has stories, from Lucille Ball to Frank Sinatra. He is passionate about mid-century architecture and has written extensively about it. He has even interviewed Hugh Kaptur, the last living post- World War II modernist. A history buff, John can tell you about our colorful past and our bigger- than-life pioneers. He grew up in a and has fond memories of family outings in the desert and the Salton Sea. “I enjoy showing people Palm Springs,” he says. “No place like it.” John Stark has been doing tours since he moved to Palm Springs to “retire.” He is a veteran journalist who spent 10 years as a Senior Writer at People magazine in New York and before that was a movie critic and feature writer at the San Francisco Examiner. He knows his stars and has stories, from Lucille Ball to Frank Sinatra. He is passionate about mid-century architecture and has even interviewed Hugh Kaptur, the last living post-World War II modernist. A history buff, John can tell you about our colorful past and our bigger-than-life pioneers. He grew up in California and has fond memories of family outings in the desert and the Salton Sea. “I enjoy showing people Palm Springs,” he says. “No place like it.”

Phillip Mershon

If the intersection of Golden Age Hollywood and Palm Springs history is your jam, then Philip is your man.  Creator, sole operator and performer of the award winning Felix In Hollywood Tour Company for a dozen years, this Entertainment Industry historian now happily calls Palm Springs his home.  “In researching Hollywood History for over 25 years, I kept seeing an overlap with Palm Springs.  In the classic era movie years of the ‘30s, 40s and 50s, as well as the golden era of television of the 50s, 60s and 70s, it sometimes feels like everyone from Hollywood had second homes in Palm Springs or at least spent a lot of visiting time here.  That combined with the incredibly rich history of the City of Palm Springs itself, makes for a fascinating tour that I can’t wait to tell you about!”

Mershon also spent 20+ years working in Hollywood doing production and costuming work and considers himself lucky to have been able to work with, among others, Rodney Dangerfield, Jeff Goldblum, Sandra Bullock, Forest Whitaker, Bill Murray, Angela Bassett, Cindy Williams, Eric Roberts, Debi Mazar, David Straithern, Ben Stiller, Amy Madigan, Judd Apatow, Sarah Jessica Parker, Flea, Susan Anton, Micky Dolenz, Beverly D’Angelo, David Cassidy, Mare Winningham, Rip Torn, Elle Macpherson, Joe Montegna, Madonna, Robert Culp, Marissa Tomei, Paul McCartney, Don Cheadle, Ann Meara, James Doohan, Adam West, Sherman Hemsley, Fred Willard, Isabel Sanford, Beau Bridges, as well as legendary names like Debbie Reynolds, Mickey Rooney, Jackie Cooper, Dustin Hoffman, Cyd Charisse, Ann-Margret and Burt Reynolds.  

Originally from the Chicago suburbs, Dave embodies a down to earth Midwestern style and work ethic. A fan of cinema, his tours incorporate "behind the scenes" stories about the celebs and their homes and desert lifestyle. Dave loves to research (which he calls his "mining expeditions”). When he finds the nuggets, he weaves them into his tours to create humor, surprise, delight and wonder for his guests. He has a deep knowledge of our local architecture, history, climate, geography and the native people who settled here centuries ago. In his spare time, Dave plays guitar, swims, rides his bike and explores restaurants in the area (ask him for rec's!). He and his wife also enjoy visiting their kids and grandkids on the Southern California coast

Phase 1 Now Open – Learn More

• (442) 325-9292
• [email protected]

Touring the Celebrity Homes of Palm Springs

As you set out to explore the sun-kissed streets of Palm Springs, you’ll find yourself on an enchanting trail, tracing the footsteps of Hollywood royalty. With the majestic San Jacinto Mountains as your backdrop, discovering the Palm Springs Celebrity Homes offers an immersive journey through the hidden enclaves and opulent abodes where legends once found solace from the spotlight. Whether you’re exploring famous Palm Springs houses on your own, or savoring the rich narratives provided by guided tours Palm Springs celebrities have made famous, each corner of this desert oasis is imbued with the stories of stars who sought refuge beneath its palms and stars.

Key Takeaways

• Delve into the storied past of Palm Springs, a historical hideaway for Tinseltown’s finest.
• Uncover the architectural gems and grandeur of celebrity estates nestled in the heart of the desert.
• Gain exclusive insights into the luxurious lifestyles of Hollywood’s elite with informative tours.
• Connect with the enduring legacy of stars who shaped Palm Springs’ cultural landscape.
• Enjoy an unforgettable experience of glamour and elegance synonymous with Palm Springs living.

The Allure of Palm Springs: A Celebrity Sanctuary Since the 1920s

When you imagine a haven where glittering Hollywood careers are nurtured away from flashing cameras, Palm Springs stands out as a storied enclave. Home to Palm Springs iconic residences , the city’s celebrity allure traces back to the Jazz Age, where screen legends adhered to the studios’ “Two-Hour Rule”, maintaining close enough proximity to return to set while enjoying a respite amidst the desert palms.

That allure turned Palm Springs into a choice destination for celebrities like Frank Sinatra, whose Twin Palms Estate became as legendary as his crooning voice. Equally enchanting were the estates of luminaries like Elvis Presley, and even political figures like President Eisenhower found solace under the sun-drenched skies. Today, the famed famous houses in Palm Springs , still echo the glamour of their erstwhile owners.

Not just a collection of homes but a reflection of history, each Palm Springs residence tells a tale of a time when starlets and leading men found privacy and luxury in the arid calm away from Sunset Boulevard. Whether strolling down streets lined with awe-inspiring mid-century modern designs or simply soaking in the ambience that attracted movie royalty, you’re engaging with a living museum of American spectacle.

Indeed, as you explore the Hollywood stars’ homes Palm Springs has expertly preserved, you’re afforded a glimpse behind the velvet curtain of Tinseltown’s past—an era of opulent soirees and clandestine romances, all set against a backdrop of striking mountains and an eternally blue sky. This legendary chapter of Hollywood history remains vibrantly alive in the still luxurious and tranquil streets of Palm Springs.

• Palm Springs Iconic Residences
• Hollywood Stars’ Homes Palm Springs
• Famous Houses in Palm Springs

Guided Tours: Intimate Glimpses into Palm Springs Celebrity Homes

Imagine you’re cruising down a serene Palm Springs road, enveloped by the unique charm of the desert landscape and the allure of Hollywood history. That’s exactly what you can expect from the guided tours of Palm Springs celebrities’ homes, where the architecture and grandeur of these properties entice visitors from around the world. Detailed narratives provided by knowledgeable guides bring the past to life, offering an exclusive peek into the luxurious hideaways of star icons.

These tours take you through the prestigious Las Palmas neighborhood, famed for its concentration of must-see celebrity residences in Palm Springs . Safely seated in small, eco-friendly vehicles, you’re able to navigate the city’s boulevards and byways with ease, ensuring a personal and comprehensive tour experience.

• View the fabled estate where Elvis Presley honeymooned.
• Drive by Frank Sinatra’s legendary Twin Palms estate, a marvel in modernist design.
• Marvel at the nostalgic charm of Marilyn Monroe’s intimate hideaway.

Each story narrated on these tours paints a vivid picture, connecting you to the golden era of cinema and music in vibrant detail. By the end of your journey, you’ll not only have witnessed the exteriors of these iconic homes but also gained an appreciation for the stars’ lives that is both rich in context and admiration.

So, when you plan your Palm Springs adventure, don’t miss out on this chance to weave through the tapestry of Hollywood’s most cherished escapes. The glamour and legacy embedded in these walls are yours to discover.

Palm Springs Iconic Residences and Their Architectural Marvels

When you delve into the heart of Palm Springs, you uncover a world steeped in architectural brilliance. The Palm Springs iconic residences are not just homes but emblems of a design philosophy that defined an era. As you explore the famous Palm Springs houses, each structure speaks volumes about the mid-century modern style that continues to captivate aficionados and casual observers alike. These homes, customized to the finest detail, reflect the artistry of their architects as well as the opulence of their celebrated occupants.

Imagine the sleek lines and functional beauty that characterize these homes. Their timeless appeal lies in signature elements such as:

• Open floor plans that foster a seamless flow between indoor and outdoor spaces, allowing the desert landscape to become a living part of the residence.
• Expansive glass walls that invite the bright desert sun, blurring the boundaries between nature and habitation.
• Integration with nature through meticulous landscaping that complements the desert’s stark beauty with lush courtyards and serene water features.

These iconic homes are also celebrated for their personalized touches that mirrored the lifestyles of their owners. As you continue exploring famous Palm Springs houses , you’ll notice:

• Distinctive color palettes that reflect the vibrant character of Palm Springs life.
• Cleverly designed overhangs and brise-soleil that offer respite from the intense sun while contributing to the aesthetic appeal.
• Bespoke furnishings and design elements that speak to the unique personalities of the stars who once dwelled within these walls.

Embarking on a journey through these neighborhoods allows you to experience the luxury and sophistication that are the hallmarks of Palm Springs’ architectural heritage. Each corner turned and each door opened offers a new understanding of why these residences are as much a part of the landscape as the surrounding San Jacinto mountains themselves.

Visiting Famous Houses in Palm Springs: A Peek Into Hollywood History

As you step into the sun-drenched streets of Palm Springs, you’re not just exploring a city; you’re stepping back into a bygone era of Hollywood glamour. Each corner and cul-de-sac has a tale to tell, with every famous house offering a page from the chronicles of cinema’s golden days. Here’s what you can anticipate when you set out to delve into the Hollywood stars’ homes in Palm Springs.

• Hedy Lamarr’s Haven: Immerse yourself in the innovative spirit of Hedy Lamarr, not just a film siren but also a revered inventor, by visiting her former Palm Springs residence.
• Bob Hope’s Homestead: Standing like a beacon of modernist allure, the iconic Bob Hope house encapsulates the comedian’s grandiose living while offering sweeping views of the Coachella Valley.
• Dinah Shore’s Sanctuary: Experience the embodiment of elegance at Dinah Shore’s abode, a pinnacle ofthe architectural glamour that defines much of Palm Springs’ heritage.

The enduring allure of these residences isn’t confined to their celebrity connections; it’s also about the architectural genius they epitomize, beckoning a deeper exploration of their design and significance. Thus, your journey through the famous houses in Palm Springs becomes an enchanting encounter with Hollywood history, and an unparalleled opportunity to understand the true essence of this desert oasis.

The Modernist Gem: Kaufmann Desert House and Its Place in History

Imagine stepping through time into an era where architecture was not just about creating shelter, but about forging a profound connection with the landscape. The Kaufmann Desert House , an undisputed masterpiece among Palm Springs iconic residences , does exactly that. Designed by the genius mind of Richard Neutra in 1946 for businessman Edgar J. Kaufmann, it became an emblematic structure of American Modernism.

Nestled elegantly in the Californian desert, this residence showcases Neutra’s mastery of blending indoor and outdoor spaces—a feature quite advanced for its time. With its sleek sliding glass walls and strategic vertical fins, the Kaufmann Desert House fosters a serene coexistence with the formidable desert elements. It’s these distinctive design features that have cemented the residence’s status as a significant architectural landmark of the 20th century.

• The use of transparent sliding glass walls to dissolve the barrier between inside and out.
• Vertical fins and overhangs creating sunlit spaces without compromising on shade or privacy.
• A floor plan that encourages airflow and movement through each section of the house.

Today, architectural enthusiasts and history buffs alike marvel at the sheer foresight of Neutra’s design—a home built for $300,000 in the 1940s has now become a timeless piece of history, narrating tales of its various esteemed occupants through the years. As you embark on a journey to explore the marvels of Desert Modernism, the Kaufmann Desert House is a testament to the enduring allure of innovative design that respects and accentuates its natural surroundings.

Palm Springs Celebrity Homes: A Legacy of Luxury and Style

When you take a stroll through the opulent neighborhoods of Palm Springs, you’re not just looking at homes; you’re witnessing a profound legacy of glamor and sophistication. The Palm Springs Celebrity Homes are virtually pages from a history book of American luxury, as each residence tells the tale of the desert enclave’s timeless allure. Immerse yourself in the history and style that these properties exude, and you might almost hear the echoes of Sinatra’s smooth melodies drifting on the breeze or catch a glimmer of the elegance that made Marilyn Monroe an icon.

This storied region, famed for its connection to Hollywood royalty, continues to enchant with its distinctive blend of natural beauty and architectural triumphs. To step onto these grounds is to walk in the footsteps of stars, feeling the same sense of seclusion and serenity that drew them to this unique desert lifestyle. The celebrity homes in Palm Springs serve not only as sanctuaries for their dwellers but remain landmarks of architectural significance and enduring symbols of an extravagant era.

Explore the lavish estates that have become irrevocably linked to the essence of Palm Springs. Embrace the extravagance that envelops the air, and understand how the luxurious simplicity of desert living harmonizes with the grandeur of celebrity life. You, too, can be a part of the splendor that has seduced movie stars and moguls alike – a testament to the prestigious desert oasis that Palm Springs has always been.

• Experience the architectural grandeur of mid-century modern design in celebrity homes
• Feel the history woven into the walls of iconic estates
• Discover how celebrity culture has shaped the Palm Springs lifestyle

The homes of Palm Springs’ former and current celebrities stand not merely as structures, but as monuments to an epoch of style and luxury. They reflect a chapter of history that still resonates today, offering you a chance to indulge in the same sumptuous retreats once favored by Hollywood’s greatest stars.

Must-See Celebrity Residences in Palm Springs: Sinatra, Monroe, and More

Your journey through the mesmerizing desert landscape of Palm Springs isn’t complete without visiting the stunning homes of the stars that defined classic Hollywood. The city boasts several must-see celebrity residences Palm Springs has preserved, offering a glimpse into the glamorous lives of the rich and famous. Imagine the luxury that these walls have witnessed, and the stories they could tell of A-list soirees and tranquil desert retreats.

Engage yourself with the timeless elegance of Frank Sinatra’s legendary Twin Palms estate, where you can stand under the piano-shaped swimming pool’s shadow, reflecting on the crooner’s impeccable taste and lavish lifestyle. Revel in the chance to peek into Marilyn Monroe ‘s cherished hideaway, where the silver screen’s most iconic bombshell found solace away from the flashing cameras.

• An intimate glimpse into the enigmatic life of Elvis Presley in his Honeymoon Hideaway.
• A stroll around the Elrod House, prominently featured in the James Bond classic “Diamonds Are Forever.”
• Explore the Kaufmann Desert House , a structural embodiment of mid-century modernism.

Each Palm Springs Celebrity Home is a treasure trove of anecdotes, unseen photographs, and priceless memories. Your visit will become an unforgettable narrative, ingrained in the very essence of American pop culture.

Beyond the walls and opulent facades, you are living through the secret stories of Palm Springs. Each corner turned and each door opened reveals a new chapter of Hollywood history. These homes, encapsulating the legacy of stardom and sophistication, await your admiration, operational testimonies of a bygone era—preserved, cherished, and celebrated. So, take your time to wander and wonder at these heralded monuments to celebrity and creativity that stand proudly beneath the clear blue skies of the Californian desert.

Exploring Famous Palm Springs Houses: Architectural Tours and Stories

Imagine embarking on a journey exploring famous Palm Springs houses , where each turn down a sun-drenched street unfolds a narrative steeped in Hollywood legacy. When you embark on guided tours Palm Springs celebrities once called home, you’re not merely touring neighborhoods; you’re peering into private worlds where architectural genius and storied lives intermingle.

These tours offer glimpses of the impeccable mid-century modern design , a style that has become synonymous with Palm Springs itself. The clean lines, indoor-outdoor living philosophy, and intersection of function and form are all on captivating display. Through expert storytelling, you discover the personal quirks and lesser-known tales of celebrity escapades that breathe life into the walls surrounding you.

• Experience the timeless allure of Frank Sinatra’s Twin Palms Estate, where the crooner’s legendary parties once set the desert nights ablaze.
• Step behind the gates of the Elvis Honeymoon Hideaway, a testament to the King of Rock’s stature and Palm Springs’ appeal to American icons.
• Marvel at the visionary Kaufmann Desert House, a Richard Neutra masterpiece that encapsulates desert modernism.

With these stories and structures, the essence of a bygone era—of glamour, intrigue, and artistic innovation—is captured. It’s an enriching cultural sojourn that transcends a simple walk through history.

Your architectural odyssey through Palm Springs is more than a tour; it’s an intimate exploration of a city’s soul, etched in glass and stone, whispered in the desert wind. The chance to stand within these spaces is a chance to connect with an extraordinary, enduring thread of American culture.

From Movie Stars to Moguls: The Evolution of Hollywood Stars’ Homes Palm Springs

As your journey through Palm Springs continues, you’ll notice a fascinating transformation in the landscape of luxury. What were once the secret hideaways of silver screen legends have now become the proud emblems for today’s titans of industry and media. This shift mirrors the changing dynamics within the entertainment world, with the ongoing magnificence of Palm Springs at its heart.

The sleepy desert town, historically revered by names such as Cary Grant and Katharine Hepburn, has now welcomed a new era of elites. The evolution from Hollywood stars’ homes in Palm Springs to modern mogul mansions is indicative of the city’s unwavering charm and its ability to adapt to the tastes of each generation while retaining its quintessential allure.

• The enduring cachet of Palm Springs lures the contemporary set of influencers and CEOs, for whom luxury and discretion remain paramount.
• The architectural grandeur that signified the golden days of Hollywood now symbolizes success in the modern economy.
• Palm Springs Celebrity Homes continue to be a kernel of inspiration for architects, with each structure telling the story of an evolution from past to present.

In your exploration, you might ponder the layers of history that each mansion contains, both publicly celebrated and intimately hidden. While the owners may have changed, the essence of what drew the original Hollywood royalty to this desert oasis endures – a testament to Palm Springs’ enduring legacy as a sanctuary for stars.

As we draw the curtain on this exploration of Palm Springs Celebrity Homes , it’s evident that these properties are more than mere bricks and mortar. They stand as proud testaments to a star-studded era, encapsulating the nostalgia and glamor we associate with vintage Hollywood. For you, the discerning traveler, visiting celebrity homes in Palm Springs is much like leafing through the pages of an enthralling history book where every house has a tale to tell.

The allure of these homes isn’t just in their aesthetic appeal, but also in the rich backstories they possess—the legendary parties, the quiet moments of reflection by a poolside, the deals made over cocktails as the desert sun dipped below the horizon. Each corner of Palm Springs offers a unique narrative that has shaped the cinematic history we cherish today. As a sojourner in search of splendor, Palm Springs provides you with an immersive experience into the exuberance of bygone days.

For those eager to immerse themselves in this luxurious time capsule, consider making Coachella Lakes RV Resort your sanctuary. It serves as the perfect base to indulge in the timeless elegance that is so vividly engraved within the city of Palm Springs. As you retire for the evening amid the tranquility of Coachella, you carry with you the essence of the desert oasis—a place where the legacy of legends pleasantly lingers.

What makes Palm Springs a popular destination for viewing celebrity homes?

Palm Springs has been a favorite retreat for Hollywood celebrities since the 1920s, known for providing a perfect balance of proximity to Los Angeles and privacy. The city’s mid-century modern architecture and rich history as a sanctuary for stars such as Frank Sinatra and Marilyn Monroe make exploring famous Palm Springs houses an enthralling experience.

Can I take a guided tour to see the celebrity homes in Palm Springs?

Yes, guided tours Palm Springs celebrities offer an intimate and informative glimpse into the luxurious world of Hollywood’s elite. These tours navigate through neighborhoods such as Las Palmas, showcasing iconic residences from a close perspective while sharing captivating stories of the stars.

What are some must-see celebrity residences in Palm Springs?

The must-see celebrity residences Palm Springs include the homes of Frank Sinatra, Marilyn Monroe, and Elvis Presley, among others. These iconic dwellings not only boast historical significance but are also architectural masterpieces, a testament to the lavish lifestyle of their famous inhabitants.

How is the Kaufmann Desert House significant in Palm Springs’ history?

The Kaufmann Desert House is a celebrated example of American Modernism, designed by renowned architect Richard Neutra. Completed in 1946, it represents a harmonious relationship with the surrounding desert and is an iconic piece of 20th-century architecture, making it a cornerstone of Palm Springs iconic residences .

What architectural styles are predominant in Palm Springs celebrity homes?

Palm Springs is famous for its mid-century modern architecture, reflecting the design trends that were popular during the mid-20th century. These homes are characterized by their clean lines, indoor-outdoor living, and integration with the natural desert landscape, making exploring famous Palm Springs houses an aesthetically pleasing experience.

Why has Palm Springs attracted celebrities throughout the decades?

Palm Springs provides a unique combination of seclusion, beautiful desert landscape, and luxurious amenities, which has attracted celebrities for decades. Adherence to Hollywood’s “Two-Hour Rule” made it a convenient getaway spot for stars who needed to remain on call for studio duties, solidifying its allure as a celebrity sanctuary.

Are the celebrity homes in Palm Springs open to the public?

While the celebrity homes in Palm Springs are private properties and generally not open for public tours, guided tours offer exterior views and insights into the lives of the stars who lived in these iconic residences. These tours respect privacy while allowing visitors to experience the glamour of these famous abodes.

How has the Palm Springs International Film Festival influenced celebrity presence in the city?

The Palm Springs International Film Festival has reaffirmed Palm Springs’ status as a sanctuary for celebrities. Started under Mayor Sonny Bono, the festival has become a magnet for modern A-listers like Anne Hathaway and Dakota Fanning, renewing the city’s connection with Hollywood’s elite each year.

What impact do architectural tours have on understanding the history of Palm Springs?

Architectural tours in Palm Springs provide an educational narrative, combining technical knowledge of mid-century modern design with personal stories and historical context. These tours enrich visitors’ understanding of what made these iconic celebrity homes architecturally significant and culturally important.

Is there a connection between the past and present celebrity homeowners in Palm Springs?

Palm Springs has maintained its appeal as an exclusive retreat over the years, with its celebrity homes transitioning from the private hideaways of classic movie stars to status symbols for modern moguls and industry giants. This evolved connection reflects the changing landscape of the entertainment industry while continuing the city’s legacy as a haven for the rich and famous.

Source Links

• https://thebestofthebesttours.com/Rich-and-Famous-Tour/
• https://www.gpsmycity.com/tours/famous-houses-in-palm-springs-5433.html
• https://www.palmspringscelebritytours.com/

• 44790 Dillon Road, Coachella, CA 92236
• Privacy Policy
• Terms & Conditions
• Accessibility Statement

© 2024 CRR: A Lifestyle Company | This property is owned and managed by CRR Hospitality | All Rights Reserved. RV Resort Website Designed By Insider Perks Inc.

• Palm Springs Convention Center
• LGBTQ+ Travel

• Health & Happiness
• Aerial Adventures
• Arts & Culture
• Attractions
• Bike & Scooter Rentals
• Hiking/Rock Climbing
• Off Road Adventures
• Parks & Recreation
• Spa & Beauty
• Sports & Fitness
• Bars & Lounges
• Continental
• Italian/Pizza
• Mediterranean
• Mexican/Latin
• Vegetarian/Vegan/Organic
• Large Hotels
• Mid-Sized Hotels
• Small Hotels & Inns
• Vacation Rentals
• Gay Resorts
• Art, Galleries & Supplies
• Cannabis & Tobacco
• Clothing Accessories
• Department & Hardware Stores
• Floral Design & Shop
• Gifts, Collectibles & Souvenirs
• Grocery & Pharmacy
• Health, Nutrition & Beauty
• Home Décor & Furniture
• Pet Stores & Services
• Shipping & Printing Services
• Specialty Food & Wine
• Sporting Goods
• Vintage Shopping & Antiques
• Order Visitor Guides
• Getting Here
• Visitor Information
• Eat & Drink
• © Copyright 2024 Palm Springs Bureau of Tourism. All rights reserved.
• Privacy Policy
• Do Not Sell or Share My Info
• Site by Vrrb

Palm Springs Stars’ Homes: Self-Guided Tour

As you wander through the streets of Palm Springs, you’ll find yourself immersed in the allure of the silver screen.  Each home tells a unique story, painting a vivid picture of the celebrities who have called this desert oasis their home.

Imagine strolling past the gates of Frank Sinatra’s former residence or standing outside the legendary Elvis Presley’s house, where he sought solace and inspiration amid his illustrious career. Armed with this guide and a sense of adventure, you’ll be free to explore at your own pace, capturing photographs and soaking in the luxury surrounding each star-studded property.

Start at one of the oldest and most exclusive neighborhoods in Palm Springs.

Old Las Palmas Neighborhood

Start at the corner of Belardo Road and E. Alejo Road, adjacent to O’Donnell Golf Course.

Liberace Estate – 501 Belardo

Liberace (Wladziu Valentino Liberace) was a famous over-the-top piano player. He purchased the Cloisters Hotel of Palm Springs in Sept. of 1967, a Spanish-style, 40-year-old hotel. Pioneer Alvin Hicks built the Cloisters. The address would change to 501 N. Belardo Road, and the property, first called “Casa de Liberace,” would later be called “The Cloisters.” It is here Liberace passed away in 1987. His mom lived in the property behind this home that he sold after her death.

Head north on Belardo and turn left on West Chino Drive.

Clark Gable & Carole Lombard Getaway – 222 West Chino Drive (r)

After actor Clark Gable married Carole Lombard, they stayed in this home. Sadly, they were only married for three years because Carole died in a plane crash in 1942. The house was later owned by Joel Douglas, the son of Kirk Douglas and brother of Michael Douglas.

Sammy Davis, Jr. – 444 West Chino Drive (r)

Singer, dancer, actor on stage and in movies.

Continue West on W. Chino Drive. Turn right onto N. Patencio Road

Fibber Magee and Mollie – 591 N. Patencio (l)

Fibber Magee and Mollie was a husband and wife team of a very popular radio comedy program from the 1930s to 1950s. George Hamilton later owned it in the late 1970s. You can see his signature on the right side of the driveway.

Mary Pickford & Buddy Rogers – 701 N. Patencio (l)

Mary Pickford and Charles “Buddy” Rogers were friends and co-stars who began dating in 1927 and married in 1937. Pickford was a silent film star, and Rogers was a bandleader and star of the silent ear. She won an Oscar for best actress in 1929. Charlie Chaplin was a frequent guest, and it is noteworthy that Pickford and her first husband, Douglas Fairbanks, along with Chaplin and D. W. Griffith, founded United Artists.

Harold Robbins is an American author of popular novels. He wrote over 25 best-sellers and sold over 750 million copies in 40 countries. Among his best-known works is The Carpetbaggers, which was made into a film.  In 1985, following a stroke and then a fall, he fractured both hips. He remained in Palm Springs for the rest of his life. He died of heart failure in 1997 at the age of 81 in Palm Springs.

Edward G. Robinson – 990 N Patencio (l)

Edward was an actor on stage and screen during Hollywood’s Golden Age.  He was best known for his roles as a gangster, especially in the films Little Caesar and Key Largo. He hired architect A. Quincy Jones to design his home, which he occupied from 1959 to 1973. It was later used as a location to film “Oceans 11,” starring Brad Pitt, George Clooney, and Julia Roberts.

Follow the road as it turns right onto W. Via Lola.

Goldie Hawn & Kurt Russell – 550 W. Via Lola (l)

Goldie Hawn is an American actress, director, producer, and singer. She first became famous on the NBC sketch comedy show Rowan & Martin’s Laugh-In. In 1969, she won an Academy Award and a Golden Globe for her performance in Cactus Flower. She has also appeared in over 60 movies, including Overboard, Death Becomes Her, and First Wives Club.  

Kurt Russell is an American actor known for his action dramas and has starred in many films, including Stargate (1994), Executive Decision (1996), Breakdown (1997), Vanilla Sky (2001), Miracle (2004), Grindhouse (2007), and The Hateful Eight (2015).  He’s also appeared in the Fast & Furious franchise and portrayed Ego in the Marvel Cinematic Universe.  

This was a vacation getaway for the Hollywood couple.

Miami Vice designer home – 520 W. Via Lola (l)

This house was used for photo and video shoots for the popular Miami Vice TV show.

Kirk Douglas – 515 W. Via Lola (r)

Kirk Douglas first came to Palm Springs in 1952 to recuperate from pneumonia, staying at the Racquet Club. He purchased his first home at 1069 East Marshall Way. In 1957, they purchased their second home at 515 Via Lola. Spencer Tracy and Katharine Hepburn rented the house for two summers. MGM director Vincente Minnelli held his wedding reception to his fourth wife, Lee Anderson, here.

Sidney Sheldon – 425 W. Via Lola (r)

Best-selling author Sidney Sheldon first visited Palm Springs in 1948. He had just won an Oscar for “The Bachelor and the Bobby Soxer” in 1947 and was vacationing at the Colonial House (Colony Palms). Although he was widely known as a prolific writer, he also wrote more than 23 movies and created “The Patty Duke Show,” “I Dream of Jeannie,” and “Hart to Hart,” which was the #1 TV show in 1983.

He purchased two homes at 425 Via Lola and combined them into one large estate. Arthur Elrod decorated the house in yellow lollipop swirls.

He said in a 1985 interview that he owned homes in Los Angeles, London, and Palm Springs and did most of his writing in Palm Springs. He remained a resident of Palm Springs until his death on January 30, 2007, at 89.

Take the first turn to your right on N. Cahuilla Road.

Turn right at Hermosa Place.

Nancy & Ronald Reagan – 369 Hermosa Place (l)

Ronald Reagan was the 40th president of the United States, serving from 1981 to 1989. Before becoming president, Reagan was an actor who appeared in films such as The Voice of the Turtle (1947), Bedtime for Bonzo (1951), The Winning Team (1952), and Cattle Queen of Montana (1954).

First Lady Nancy was an American film actress from the 1940s and 1950s. starring in films such as  The Next Voice You Hear… ,  Night i nto Morning , and  Donovan’s Brain . In 1952, she married Ronald Reagan, then president of the Screen Actors Guild.

Dinah Shore Estate – 432 Hermosa Place (r)

Dinah Shore (1916-1994) was an American actress, singer, and television personality. She was the top female vocalist of the 1940s, with hits like “Baby, It’s Cold Outside”. In the 1970s, she started a new career as a talk show host, hosting Dinah’s Place (1970–74), Dinah (1974–79), Dinah and Friends (1979–84), and A Conversation with Dinah (1989–91). She won six Emmy Awards and was recognized as one of America’s most admired women.

The estate symbolizes Hollywood glamour, designed for Dinah Shore in 1964 by architect Donald Wexler. In 2014, Leonardo DiCaprio purchased the property and made it available as a vacation rental called 432 Hermosa. The estate is a 1.3-acre compound featuring six bedrooms and 7.5 bathrooms.

Continue west, and you will come back to N. Patencio.

Turn left and take the first right to Mountain View and right again to N. Via Monte Vista.

Dean Martin & Jeannie Martin – 1123 N. Monte Vista (l)

Dean was an avid golfer in Palm Springs. He was at the El Mirador Hotel, which opened in 1952. That same year, he was an entertainer at the Desert Circus, along with Jerry Lewis. He would also attend the Palm Springs Rodeo of the Stars along with Dinah Shore, George Montgomery, Jerry Leis, and Charlie Farrell.

In 1965, he purchased this home. The deed was transferred to Jeanie after their divorce in 1973.

Cyd Charisse & Tony Martin  – 1197 N. Monte Vista (l)

Charisse was an actress and dancer, and Martin was an American singer. They married in 1948 and remained married until Charisse died in 2008.

Cyd became a resident ballet dancer for MGM in 1943. She appears in the Ziegfeld Follies (1946). She followed this performance with roles in  The Harvey Girls  (1946),  Three Wise Fools  (1946),  Till the Clouds Roll By  (1946), and  Fiesta  (1947). Another big hit was Singin’ in the Rain (1952).

 Martin’s career lasted over seven decades, and he had many hits between the 1930s and 1950s, including “Walk Hand in Hand,” “I Love Paris,” and “Stranger in Paradise”. He also hosted a variety series on NBC from 1954 to 1956 and has appeared on the TV variety shows of many stars, including Jack Benny, Dinah Shore, and Milton Berle.

Peter Lawford & Patricia Kennedy – 1295 N. Monte Vista (l)

Peter was an actor and member of the “Rat Pack.” He was a celebrity from the 1940s to the 1960s and has credits in over 60 films, including Ocean’s 11, Little Women, and Good News.  

Peter was hanging out at the Racquet Club in the mid-1940s. He would stop in on the weekends, play tennis, and dine at the Doll House. He married Patricia Kennedy in 1954, sister of John F. Kennedy, and they vacationed at the Racquet Club.

Vista Las Palmas Neighborhood

Head north on N. Via Monte Vista.

Turn left at the first cross street onto S. Via Las Palmas.

Rona Barrett – 840 S. Via Las Palmas (l)

Rona is an American gossip columnist.  She began broadcasting Hollywood gossip in the 1960s. Rona owned this home just a block from the Elvis Honeymoon Hideaway, where Elvis and Priscilla planned to be wed in 1967. She noticed many family and friends arriving and broke the news of Elvis’s forthcoming marriage.

Initially, the plan was to have the wedding and reception around the pool at the estate. Still, because of the onslaught of the press and media, Elvis’s manager, Colonel Parker, arranged for Elvis and Priscilla to be married in Las Vegas. Private transportation was provided by their friend Frank Sinatra.

Through her extensive network of sources in the industry, she even broke the news of their divorce six years later.

Head west on S. Via Las Palmas. Turn right onto Ladera Circle, which is a cul-de-sac.

Elvis Honeymoon Hideaway – 1350 Ladera Circle

Elvis and Priscilla Presley’s honeymoon hideaway is a 5,000 sq ft, three-level house. It is also known as “The House of Tomorrow.”

  Go back out of culdesac and turn right onto Abrigo Road (S. Via Las Palmas turns into Abrigo Road) Turn right at the first cross street on Via Vadera Turn right at the first street onto N. Rose Ave.

Turn right onto W. Stevens Road.

 Debbie Reynolds – 670 Stevens Road (l)

  Reynolds is known for her role in 1950s musicals, including Singin’ in the Rain (1952) and The Unsinkable Molly Brown (1964). She was nominated for a Golden Globe Award for her portrayal of Helen Kane in the 1950 film Three Little Words. Reynolds has 21 wins and 44 nominations in total.

She married heartthrob singer Eddie Fisher in 1955 and gave birth to Carrie one year later. They were Hollywood royalty. Reynolds starred in “Singing in the Rain” in 1952.  She became the best-selling female artist of 1957 with her single, “Tammy,” from her film, “Tammy and the Bachelor.”  It remained at No. 1 for five weeks.

Fisher had been a teen idol in the early 1950s and had his own NBC TV show, “Coke Time with Eddie Fisher,” from 1953 to ’59.  They were best man and bridesmaid at the wedding of producer Mike Todd and fellow MGM star Elizabeth Taylor in 1957.

But, when Todd died in a plane crash in 1958, Fisher went to be by Taylor’s side, and they soon began an affair. It caused such a scandal that NBC canceled Fisher’s show when it became public, and his career never recovered.

Reynolds married Harry Karl, a magnate of Karl’s Shoe Stores, in 1960. They bought this home in the Las Palmas district, which served as a getaway from Reynolds’ work on such movies as “How the West Was Won” and “The Unsinkable Molly Brown,” for which she received a Best Actress Oscar nomination.

  Continue heading east on W. Stevens Road. Turn right onto N. Vine Ave. Turn left onto Camino Norte

 Mary Martin – 365 Camino Norte

  Mary Martin, best known for her role as Peter Pan, came to Palm Springs in 1939.  She said, “This is the Never Never Land.” She came to Palm Springs after her popular Broadway show and would stay at the Biltmore. Shortly after her producer husband, Richard Halliday died in 1973, Martin began looking for a place in Palm Springs. She wanted to be near her “best” remaining friend, Janet Gaynor. Mary took the first place the realtor showed her at 365 Camino Norte. She later discovered her next-door neighbor was somehow related to her husband, Richard. She had the battleship gray house painted pink and turned the back of the house into the front of the house, and she was in love with the place. Retired actor William Powell lived directly across the street. The first day she moved in, he came out to get his mail, waived to her, and said, “Welcome home.”

 Howard Hughes – 335 Camino Norte

  Howard Hughes, Jr. (1905 – 1976) was an American businessman, investor, pilot, film director, and philanthropist. He was born to a wealthy family in Humble, Texas, on December 24, 1905. Hughes is best known for his wealth, celebrity connections, and eccentricities. He was one of the wealthiest men in the world during his lifetime and left 1.56 billion to charities.

He also owned a home at 2195 Rim Road in Araby Cove, which is much more isolated.

Alan Ladd – 323 Camino Norte

  Alan Ladd (1913 – 1964) was an American actor and film producer. In film noir and Western films, he was known for his roles as a cowboy, detective, and war hero in the 1940s and 1950s. He is best known for his role in the 1953 western Shane. His other big films included Carpetbaggers and The Great Gatsby.

He owned the Alan Ladd Hardware Store in downtown Palm Springs, now The Five Hundred Building at 500 S. Palm Canyon.

Alan’s house is now a vacation rental available through Mod Mansions.

Turn left onto N. Kaweah Road.

 Liberace’s Guest House – 1441 N. Kaweah Road (l)

At the end of N. Kaweah Road, turn left onto W. Stevens Road. Turn right onto N. Via Norte

Jack Benny – 424 W. Vista Chino (at the corner of N. Via Norte & W. Vista Chino)

Jack Benny (1894 – 1974) was an American entertainer who worked in vaudeville, radio, television, and film. Benny started his career as a violinist in vaudeville, Broadway revues, and movies before becoming a stand-up comedian. His comedic method and timing made him successful in radio and television for over 30 years. In 1950, he starred in his television series until 1965.

This is Jack’s winter home.

 Little Tuscany Neighborhood

Now, head to Little Tuscany, known for its abundance of boulders.   Turn left at the second cross street onto W. Vista Chino.

 Zsa Zsa Gabor – 595 W. Chino Canyon (left on corner)

  Zsa Zsa Gabor (1917 – 2016) was a Hungarian-American actress and socialite. She was known for her glamorous personal life and her television and film appearances. Gabor was known for her many marriages, personal appearances, and catchphrase “dahling.” She married hotel magnate Conrad Hilton in 1942 when she was 30 years younger than him. She was also the great-aunt of Paris Hilton.

Turn right onto W. Chino Canyon.

Elvis Presley – 845 W. Chino Canyon (l)

  Elvis purchased this Palm Springs estate in 1970 and would spend, on average, about three months there every year.  If they were lucky, stargazers sometimes spotted the entertainer tossing a football or shooting baskets with his five bodyguards inside the walled grounds.

He came to Palm Springs because he liked his privacy. He expanded the house with an additional 2,000 square feet for a party room, a new bedroom with two bathrooms, and a sauna in 1974. Elvis passed away on August 16, 1977, and his estate went on the market shortly after. Greg McDonald, Presley’s road manager and Ricky Nelson’s personal manager, would later buy the property in 1986.

  Continue on W. Chino Canyon Turn left on W. Panorama Road Turn right onto W. Cielo Drive

 Magda Gabor – 1090 Cielo Drive (this is a cul-de-sac)

Magda was the oldest daughter of Jolie Gabor and sister to Evan and Zsa Zsa. Magda moved into a home in 1964 and remained there until her death on June 6, 1997, just two months after her mother’s death. She was 78.

Head back east on W. Cielo Drive and stay to the right.

Slight right onto W. Panorama Road.

Frederick Loewe – 815 W. Panorama Road(r)

Frederick Loewe (1901-1988) was an American composer and musical theater collaborator. He was born in Berlin, Germany, to Austrian parents. Frederick  is known for his work on Broadway musicals, including Brigadoon (1947), Paint Your Wagon (1951), My Fair Lady (1956), and Camelot. He also collaborated with lyricist Alan Jay Lerner on the original film musical Gigi (1973).  Loewe’s awards include the Academy Award for Best Original Song for “If Ever I Would Leave You” in 1959 and a Kennedy Center Honors for Gigi in 1985.

The Frederick Loewe Estate is a midcentury luxury estate. The 3-acre property features a private tennis court, pool, spa, waterfalls, and four boutique-style hotel rooms. The estate is often called “magical” and is a perfect setting for weddings, corporate events, retreats, and other special events.  

George and Rosalie Hearst – 701 W. Panorama Road

George Randolph Hearst Sr. was the oldest of five sons of publishing magnate William Randolph Hearst. His various posts included being the publisher of the San Francisco Examiner. Rosalie was his last wife, and they were active philanthropists in Palm Springs.

Rosalie Hearst was a Palms Springs civic leader. Locally, she was a trustee for the Palm Springs Youth Center and Friends of the College of the Desert Cultural Center. She also helped found the Opera Guild of Palm Springs, the Palm Springs Opera Company, and the Palm Springs Women’s Press Club.

Raymond Loewy  – 600 W. Panorama Road

Raymond was a French-born American industrial designer. He is known as “the father of industrial design” and is famous for his work in various industries.

Loewy’s accomplishments in product design began in the 1930s, and he helped establish industrial design as a profession. His work includes razors, railroad terminals, the Lucky Strike cigarette packet, the Coca-Cola bottle, and logos for Shell and Exxon. He also designed the Studebaker Avanti car.

Continue the Palm Springs tour of the star’s homes in the Movie Colony neighborhood. Follow Panorama Drive and continue as it turns left. Take the next right onto W. Chino Canyon Road as you had entered. Turn right at the first cross street on N. Via Norte Turn left onto W. Stevens Road Turn right onto N. Indian Canyon Drive Turn left onto E. Tachevah Drive

Movie Colony Neighborhood

 Darryl Zanuck – 346 Tamarisk (l)

Darryl Francis Zanuck (1902-1979) was an American producer, writer, actor, director, and studio executive. He was a significant part of the Hollywood studio system and produced some of the most important and controversial films in Hollywood’s history.

Zanuck had been visiting Palm Springs since the 1930s. He was initially working with Warner Brothers, where he was hired to make the second Rin Tin Tin adventure, “Find Your Man.” Its success earned him responsibility for the Rin Tin Tin series over the next two years. He later fell out with Warner Brothers, so he left and founded Twentieth Century Pictures with Joseph Schenck in 1933. They merged it with William Fox’s Film Corporation two years later and renamed it 20th Century Fox. Schenck had bankrolled all the Buster Keaton silent comedies. Zanuck was in charge of production. He produced 18 features in the first two years and 17 box-office hits, including a 1935 nominee for best film, “Les Miserables.” Over the next two decades, three of the films personally produced by Zanuck won the Academy Award for best motion picture: “How Green Was My Valley” in 1941, “Gentleman’s Agreement” in 1947, and “All About Eve” in 1950.

Zanuck purchased this house in 1945.

Randolph Scott – 333 Tamarisk Road (r)

Randolph Scott was an American actor who worked in Hollywood from 1928 to 1962. He is known for his roles in westerns, war films, crime dramas, adventure, horror, fantasy, and musicals. Some of his films include Ride the High Country, Ride Lonesome, and Comanche Station. In the late 1950s, Scott formed the Ranown production company and starred in a series of westerns directed by Budd Boetticher.

He was good friends with another local resident, Cary Grant, who had previously lived together for some time early in their careers.

The house is hidden behind hedges.

Continue south on Tamarisk to N. Via Miraleste.

Barbara Hutton – 796 Via Miraleste (right corner on Via Miraleste across from Ruth Hardy Park)

Barbara Hutton (1912 – 1979) was an American heiress, debutante, socialite, and philanthropist. She was the only child of Edna Woolworth and Franklyn Laws Hutton and the granddaughter of Frank Winfield Woolworth, the founder of the Woolworth retail chain. Hutton was one of the wealthiest women in the world, inheriting one-third of her father’s estate.

She was married to Cary Grant but divorced in 1945.

Continue on Tamarisk Road to N. Avenida Caballeros. Ruth Hardy Park will be on your left. Turn left onto N. Avenida Caballeros Turn right onto E. El Alameda.

Bing Crosby – 1011 E. El Alameda (r)

Bing Crosby Jr. (1903 – 1977) was an American singer, actor, and television personality. He was one of the most popular and influential musical artists of the 20th century.

Crosby is best known for singing hit songs like “White Christmas.” He recorded over 1,600 songs and released over 400 singles and 70 albums. He was also an Oscar-winning actor who starred in over 70 feature films and was on the radio for three decades.

Dorothy Lamour – 1029 E. El Alameda (r)

Dorothy Lamour (1914 – 1996) was an American actress and singer. She is best known for her roles in the “Road” movies, a series of comedies starring Bing Crosby and Bob Hope.

Lamour began her career in the 1930s as a big band singer. She is credited in over 60 movies, including Road to Bali, Road to Morocco, and Road to Singapore. She played Anita Alvarez in Swing High, Swing Low, and Norma Malone in “St. Louis Blues.” Her Jungle Love is a 1938 American South Sea adventure film directed by George Archainbaud and starring Dorothy Lamour and Ray Milland. Portions of the film were shot in Indian Canyons.

Bob & Delores Hope – 1188 E. El Alameda (l)

Bob Hope (1903 – 2003) was a British-born American actor, comedian, entertainer, and producer. His career spanned nearly 80 years and included work in vaudeville, network radio, television, and USO Tours.

Hope was known for his jokes, one-liners, and success in all entertainment media. He spent much of his career entertaining American troops at home and abroad during World War II, the Korean War, and the Vietnam War. He received five honorary Academy Awards for his work and his contributions to the industry.

This was their first house in Palm Springs. Their second is on the top of the hill in the Southridge neighborhood.

Hedy Lamarr – 1232 E. El Alameda (l)

Hedy Lamarr (1914-2000) was an Austrian-born American actress and inventor. She was a film star during Hollywood’s Golden Age and is credited in over 60 movies. She was often typecast as a provocative femme fatale.

In addition to her acting career, Lamarr is known for her work as an inventor and radio communications device. She worked on aircraft wing shapes and dissolvable drink flavorings. Lamarr’s technology paved the way for developing WiFi, GPS, and Bluetooth communication systems. She also helped develop an early technique for spread spectrum communications. Her invention is used today for WiFi, Bluetooth, and even top-secret military defense satellites.

Continue on E. El Alameda to N. Hermosa Drive. Turn right on N. Hermosa Drive. Turn right on E. Alejo Road

Wait for it….. We saved the best for last…..

Frank Sinatra Estate – 1148 E. Alejo Road

Frank Sinatra (1915 – 1998) was an American singer and actor. He is one of the world’s best-selling music artists, with an estimated 150 million records sold.

Frank had been coming to Palm Springs in the mid-1940s. He spent so much time here that it was time to buy a home in Palm Springs, so he approached architect E. Stewart Williams to do the job in 1947. Initially, he wanted a classic Georgian-style home with a brick facade and columns. Williams didn’t like the idea and instead designed Sinatra a modern desert-style home, which he liked, and handed over $150,000. The challenge was that he wanted it completed by Christmas to throw a big party. Working around the clock, he had his house to ring in the New Year of 1948.

It is known as Twin Palm Frank Sinatra Estate and is available as a rental property.

You May Also Like:

Mid-century architecture self-guided tour, frank sinatra palm springs hangouts: self-guided tour, palm springs big city loop bike tour.

Elvis Loved Palm Springs

More From Guide

Palm Springs Happy Hour Guide

If you’re looking for a place to enjoy a refreshing cocktail or two after a…

Ultimate Guide to Exploring Native Palm Springs

Plan Your Experience The Agua Caliente Band of Cahuilla Indians has lived in the Palm…

Summer Fun Guide to Palm Springs

Welcome to Palm Springs, where the sun shines bright, and the fun never stops! While…

Palm Springs Newsletter

Receive news and announcements from Palm Springs straight to your inbox

+1 (760) 324-5337

[email protected]

74-794 Lennon Place, Suite B Palm Desert, CA 92260

1-760-477-4118

Palm Springs City Tour

Group Sightseeing Tour

Palm Springs City Tour (Minimum 10 / Maximum 50 Guests)

DURATION: 3 to 4 hours

Palm Springs  History * Celebrity Homes * Mid-Century Modern Architecture

Since the 1920’s, Palm Springs has been the playground for Hollywood’s elite. To this day, just the mention of Palm Springs evokes images of Tinseltown’s biggest stars laying in the warm desert sunshine sipping cocktails by the pools of their private estates. The tour will take you on an engaging journey through some the city of Palm Springs to see some of the iconic homes and landmarks such as Frank Sinatra’s Twin Palms Estate, Kenny Irwin’s RoboLight’s House, the Ingleside Inn, Desert Regional Medical Center (formerly the El Mirador Resort), and the Elvis Honeymoon Hideaway.    Along the way you'll learn about the interesting history of the city and see examples of mid-century modern architecture by Robert Frey, William Krisel, and Donald Wexler.  The tour will stop at the Forever Marilyn statue for a photo op and short art walking tour.  If time allows, guests will also have the opportunity to explore the shops and galleries in downtown Palm Springs on their own.

TOUR INCLUSIONS:

• Deluxe round-trip transportation - including all taxes, fees, and bus driver gratuity
• Professional tour guide to provide entertaining and engaging narration
• Tour guide gratuity
• Bottled water on the bus

Palm Springs City Tour Group Sightseeing Tour

Minimum 20 guests

Please contact us for pricing for smaller groups. 

TOUR OPTIONS

• Additional snacks & beverages on the bus
• Stop for coffee, ice cream, a date shake, or Brandini toffee in downtown Palm Springs
• Boxed lunches on the bus
• Lunch on Palm Canyon Drive (downtown Palm Springs)

OTHER TOURS YOU MIGHT LIKE 

San Andreas Fault / Indian Cultural Sightseeing Tour

Palm Springs Indian Canyons Sightseeing Tour

Palm Springs Aerial Tramway Sightseeing Tour

GIVE THE GIFT OF ADVENTURE!

“at the end of the day people won’t remember what you said or did, they will remember how you made them feel.” – maya angelou, this year, give treat your loved ones to the gift of an experience that will create memories to last a life time gift cards are available in any amount and they never expire and can be used at any time and on any tour., jeep and hiking tours.

San Andreas Fault

Palm Springs Indian Canyons

Painted Canyon & The Mecca Hills

Joshua Tree National Park

  GROUP EXPERIENCES (15+ PEOPLE)

Sightseeing Tours

Hiking Tours

Team Building Activities

Engaging Speakers - At your hotel or Country Club

METATE RANCH DESERT LANDSCAPES

Commercial Filming

4WD Vehicle Launches 

GENERAL INFORMATION

+1 (760) 477-4290

+1 (888) 440-5337

74-794 Lennon Place, Suite B

 Palm Desert, CA 92260

Tour Inquiries & Reservations

Main Office - Palm Desert, CA

+1 (760) 340-2345

12 things to do in the Coachella Valley, July 1-7

The Coachella Valley is home to a number of events and activities to enjoy — even as we get into the dog days of summer. If you're interested in filling your calendar with events, we've put together a list of 12 things happening this week in the valley and nearby communities.

To submit an event for consideration in future articles, send an email to [email protected] with the time, date, location and price of admission, as well as a brief event description. Photos are not required but highly encouraged as part of the submission. (Tip: Send your submission as early as possible to make sure we have it in time, and to make sure your event jumps out in our inbox, put "10 things to do submission" in the email subject line.)

Check out the following events this week:

The Roost Lounge’s 5th Anniversary

Join the owners of popular LGBTQ bar the Roost Lounge in celebrating the establishment's fifth anniversary. The Roost, which is across from Mary Pickford is D'Place movie theater in downtown Cathedral City, has become a staple in the area and often features live entertainment, karaoke and dancing. The party starts at 4 p.m. with local artists such as Keisha D and Brian Scott taking the stage. An In-N-Out Burger truck will also be there serving up anniversary burgers.

When: 4 p.m., Monday, July 1

Where: The Roost Lounge, 68-718 E. Palm Canyon Drive #203, Cathedral City 

Cost: Free, one burger ticket per customer with beverage purchase

More info: (760) 507-8495

Backstreet Art District's First Wednesday Art Walk

Palm Springs Backstreet Art District invites the public to come and enjoy an evening of fine art, live entertainment, food offerings and beverages while strolling through 13 unique galleries and art studios. Support the Coachella Valley art community while viewing the latest works by talented creatives. Come see why Backstreet Art District was voted a "Best of Coachella Valley, 2023"!

When: 5-7 p.m. Wednesday, July 3

Where: Backstreet Art District, 2600 Cherokee Way, Palm Springs (corner of South Cherokee Way and Matthew Drive behind The Estate Sale Co.)

More info: backstreetartdistrict.com

Summer Matinee Laser Bowling and DJ Night

Looking to get out of the sun but still have some family fun? Fantasy Lanes Bowling Center could be what you're looking for. With retro music and laser lights every Wednesday, Friday and Saturday this summer, it's one of the (literally) coolest places to be on the weekends. It’s an east valley destination, right off I-10, that also features performances by DJ Rawkwell from 9:30 p.m. to 12:30 a.m. every Friday night. Hungry? The bowling center also includes a snack bar selling pizza, burgers and quesadillas, plus a lounge for those who just want to chill.

When: Laser bowling is available from 2 to 4 p.m. every Wednesday, as well as 8 p.m. to 12:30 a.m. every Friday and Saturday this summer

Where: Fantasy Lanes Bowling Center (at Fantasy Springs Resort Casino), 84-245 Indio Springs Parkway, Indio   

Cost: $14 per person per hour for the Summer Matinee Laser Bowling from 2 to 4 p.m. every Wednesday; $20 per person per hour on Friday and Saturday nights (includes shoe rental, and a minimum of three people per lane)

More info: fantasyspringsresort.com/laser-bowling/

Annual Independence Day Power Baseball

Come celebrate our nation’s independence at this family-friendly sporting event. Sing the anthem, grab a hot dog and watch the Palm Springs Power play America’s favorite pasttime in an evening ending with a grand fireworks show after the ball game. Palm Springs Stadium opens at 4:30 p.m, and the team will take on the Power Summer Collegiate League (PSCL ) All-Stars at 6 p.m. No outside food is allowed, but a concession stand will be available. The fireworks show will take place at 9:15 p.m.

When: 6 p.m. Thursday, July 4 

Where: Palm Springs Stadium, 1901 E. Baristo Road, Palm Springs

Cost: $10 adults, $8 seniors, $5 kids. $15 POWER ticket (includes hot dog and soda)

More Info: palmspringspowerbaseball.com/july4th/

More: Where to celebrate the Fourth of July in the Coachella Valley with fireworks, music

Free Night/Thursday Night Sessions at the Palm Springs Art Museum

Do you love art and music? Thursday nights at the Palm Springs Art Museum are free to the public, so enjoy the valley's largest, public collection of contemporary art. You can also enjoy music and dancing curated by a professional DJ every Thursday from 5 to 8 p.m. in the Meyerman Garden. Bonus: Every Thursday night, the museum's hotel partner, Drift Palm Springs, invites the public to an informal after party featuring free swims and a late-night happy hour menu from 8 to 10 p.m.

When: 5-8 p.m. every Thursday (including July 4)

Where: Palm Springs Art Museum, 101 Museum Drive, Palm Springs

More info: psmuseum.org/events/ftn-2?date=2024-06-27

Southwest Food Fest 

Food, family and fun! Christiana Green’s Southwest Food Fest, the Coachella Valley’s latest mid-valley food truck event, is still being held every Friday evening outside Southwest Church. From barbecue to teppanyaki, the food is tasty, and this family-friendly experience includes music, games and gourmet food all summer long. 

When: 5-9 p.m. Fridays (including July 5)

Where: Southwest Church, 44-175 Washington St., Indian Wells

Cost: Free entry; food prices vary

More info: cvcfm.org

Palm Canyon Theatre presents 'Bye Bye Birdie' 

“Bye Bye Birdie” is coming to Palm Springs! Based on Michael’s Stewart’s book, Charles Strouse’s music and Lee Adams’ lyrics, this musical from 1963 is sure to bring the comedy and laughs. “Bye Bye Birdie” will run at Palm Canyon Theater from July 5-14. The musical features Jonathan Brett as Albert Peterson, Dani Jara Lesaca as Rose “Rosie” Alvarez, Joshua Rach as Conrad Birdie and Jackie Padgett as Kim MacAfee.

When: 7 p.m. on Thursdays, 8 p.m. on Fridays and Saturdays, 2 p.m. on Sundays July 5-14

Where: Palm Canyon Theatre, 538 N. Palm Canyon Drive, Palm Springs

Cost: $38 for adults; $34 for seniors; $17 for students (and group discounts are available)

More info : palmcanyontheatre.net

Patti Labelle in concert

The one and only, legendary “Godmother of Soul,” Patti Labelle will take center stage this Saturday at Fantasy Springs Resort Casino’s Special Events Center. Patti celebrates 60 years in the music business and brings her soulful sounds and inspiration to the valley. She began her career with the Blue Belles who became LaBelle. Her solo career has taken her to new heights, and she has never stopped performing. Minors ages 5 and up are allowed to attend, but they must be accompanied by an adult over the age of 21. 

When: 8 p.m. Saturday, July 6 

Where: Fantasy Springs Resort Casino, 84-245 Indio Springs Parkway, Indio                                                      

Cost: Tickets start at $59

More info: fantasyspringsresort.com/patti-labelle-concert/  

Revolution Stage Company presents Angie Delaire: 'Songs of the Movies'

Cinema music lovers can’t miss Angie Delaire's live show. She will be performing some of the big screen’s most cherished tunes at Revolution Stage Company on Saturday, July 6 for “Songs of the Movies.” Musical Director Joel Baker and special guest Paige Williams will join her for a night of performances from some of the Silver Screen’s most famous musical numbers.

Where: Revolution Stage Company, 611 S. Palm Canyon Drive, Palm Springs

Cost: $20, $25 VIP tickets

More info: onthestage.tickets/show

New Kids on the Block in concert

Say “boy band” and you automatically think of New Kids on the Block. Just as popular as ever, they’re performing at Acrisure Arena on Saturday, July 6. Looking for an exciting arena event on Independence Day weekend? The concert is a part of THE MAGIC SUMMER 2024 TOUR, a reimagining of the 1990 tour of the same name. The tour will feature greatest hits like “Step by Step,” plus other fan favorites. They will be joined by special guests Paula Abdul and DJ Jazzy Jeff. 

When: 7 p.m. Saturday, July 6

Where: Acrisure Arena, 75-702 Varner Road, Palm Desert

Cost: Tickets start at $22, and you can upgrade your ticket for $165 for access to The Compound, Acrisure Arena’s new VIP Premium space

More info: acrisurearena.com/event

ONE-PS Lip Syncing Battle 

This high-energy local event is returning to Palm Springs this week. The Second Annual Palm Springs Lip-Sync Battle will take place on July 7 at the Palm Springs Cultural Center. This year’s theme is “Better Together.” After last year’s success, this year’s battle will be even bigger as new contestants from community organizations all over the valley — such as College of the Desert and Palm Springs City Hall — compete for the crown. 

When: 3-5 p.m. Sunday, July 7

Where: Palm Springs Cultural Center, 2300 E. Baristo Road, Palm Springs 

Cost: $35–$75

More info: one-ps.org

Open Cockpit Saturday

The Palm Springs Air Museum is ranked one of the top aviation museums in the world by CNN . But it is more than just a museum: it’s a place of adventure, stimulation, and all-around fun with actual American war veterans as docents and guides. Now, when you visit between 10 a.m. and noon on Saturdays this summer, you're allowed to sit at the controls and pose for pictures inside a selected aircraft made accessible to the public.

When: The museum is open from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday-Sunday, but Open Cockit Saturdays take place between 10 a.m. and noon every Saturday

Where: Palm Springs Air Museum, 745 N. Gene Autry Trail, Palm Springs 

Cost: $24 for adults, $22 for seniors, retirees, veterans and teenagers, and children under 12 are free with adult admission

More info: palmspringsairmuseum.org/programs

Features editor Niki Kottmann contributed to this report.

Inclusion in The Desert Sun's weekly community calendar is solely at the editors' discretion. Priority is given to free and community-oriented events.

Despite awkward moments, Madonna's Celebration Tour stop at Acrisure Arena stuns visually

The last time Madonna performed in the desert was at the 2006 Coachella Valley Music and Arts Festival. However, she was 20 minutes late and only performed six songs.

At Acrisure Arena on Wednesday, the Material Girl made a stunning return to the Coachella Valley after almost two decades as part of her Celebration Tour. A DJ warmed up the crowd for an hour before Madonna appeared shortly before 10 p.m. and performed a spectacular and visually stunning retrospective of her 40-plus year career.

Madonna was originally scheduled to perform at the arena in January, but the tour was postponed due to a severe bacterial infection that landed her in the ICU last summer .

'She's our girl'

Even though most fans were dressed to impress Wednesday, only some went as a particular version of Madonna from various periods.

Gina Ayala and Debi Clouter of Desert Hot Springs were dressed in the 1983 "Borderline" era. Clouter saw Madonna perform in on the 1985 "Virgin Tour" and Ayala caught the singer's epic 1990-1991 tour in Detroit.

"She's our girl. I've been a fan since I was 15, and it all started with 'Material Girl," Couter said.

"We're so happy, and we're really here," Ayala said. "I'm going to cry right now."

Brother and sister Robert Pimentel of Palm Springs and Fina Meraz of Bermuda Dunes, the latter of whom was in a white wedding dress similar to the one Madonna wore at the 1984 MTV Video Music Awards, were taking pictures with other fans in the hallway before the concert. The siblings have both seen Madonna on a handful of occasions, including once together in Las Vegas. Meraz saw Madonna at Coachella in 2006.

Meraz said she's been a fan since seeing the singer interviewed by Don Cornelius and told him "I want to rule the world."

"I was like, 'That's my girl and I want to rule the world along with her!'" said Meraz.

Since opening last year, Acrisure Arena has hosted high-profile concert tours by The Eagles, KISS , Olivia Rodrigo , Shania Twain, Peso Pluma and more. Madonna's concert speaks to the venue becoming a noteworthy stop for leading entertainers — most of whom have never included Palm Desert on their tour itineraries previously.

"We immediately purchased tickets because she's bringing a lot of flavor to the desert, has a huge following and a lot of die-hard fans. It's exciting to have her here," Meraz said.

A joyous beginning and beautiful tribute

The concert started with Madonna performing the 1998 song "Nothing Really Matters" before diving into her early 1980s hits "Everybody," "Into The Groove," "Burning Up," "Open Up Your Heart" and "Holiday," which began with an onstage sketch of Madonna trying to get past a security guard at a club who allowed all her backup dancers inside except for her.

When she finally got inside and performed the song in a celebratory tone, suddenly the dancers disappeared and the one grooving with Madonna fell to the floor before the arena went dark. A photo mosaic and montage appeared in the backdrop paying tribute to those who died after being infected by HIV, (a disease that has killed an estimated 40 million people worldwide, according to the  World Health Organization ), including her friend and artist Keith Haring and Queen frontman Freddie Mercury.

An image of the Grammy-winning R&B and soul singer  Luther Vandross was removed after a February concert in Sacramento after the late singer's estate objected to his photo being included . Vandross passed away in 2005 due to complications from a stroke suffered two years earlier.

Acknowledging the 'daddy' presence

Most of the crowd was Generation X and the tail end of the baby boomer generation. Before Madonna took the stage, RuPaul's Drag Race season 8 winner Bob the Drag Queen walked through the audience and acknowledged the "daddies" in attendance for those with "daddy issues."

"Listen, I know y'all were there when the songs came out, so I don't want to hear no bullsh-t tonight," Bob the Drag Queen told the crowd.

Madonna also acknowledged the older men in the audience.

"I don't know what Bob was talking but, because I have daddy issues and I don't think I'm going to find a daddy here. But it's OK, because I came for the shmoney."

'Don't do that to me'

As Madonna looked around the crowd at one point, she was happy to see an older man she referred to as "Grandpa" up front who was "up and going." But there was also an awkward moment when she asked someone in the crowd "Don't do that to me, that's a weird salute. Just wave (instead)." Moments later, she returned back to the man and said "You did a weird Heil Hitler moment, but I know you didn't do it on purpose though."

"It's OK, we all make mistakes. I do occasionally myself," Madonna said.

Like other recent performances, her concert on Wednesday had some minor performance flaws and other cringeworthy exchanges with the crowd.

"Why is it called Palm Springs? That's a rhetorical question," Madonna asked before labeling the local area as a "sleepy little town" like "Little Rock, Arkansas" (despite Little Rock having over 150,000 more residents than Palm Springs).

Still provocative and naughty

Madonna is 65, but she's still the "Bad Girl" who shocked the world when she released the 1992 coffee table book "Sex" featuring risque and erotic imagery, challenged the norms on gender and sexuality, was an LGBTQ ally when it was unpopular and was scorned by religious leaders for her controversial music and videos.

One section of the show certainly reminded us of that era.

Before "Like A Prayer" during Act II of the concert, Madonna was approached by what appeared to be three druid figures who covered her in a priestess-like robe as shirtless dancers wearing bondage hoods appeared in a spinning merry-go-round structure that arose from the stage with illuminated crosses in the center.

"Erotica" and "Justify My Love" in Act III also incorporated sexually suggestive themes with several of the dancers, and Madonna simulated masturbation on a red velvet bed with a “Vogue”-era doppelganger. "Hung Up" also featured the singer in a red-and-black negligee and knee-high black boots and topless female dancers, one of whom she shared a kiss with.

Madonna still delivers

Madonna’s Celebration Tour highlights the singer’s triumphant achievements and notorious moments over the past four decades. But it’s not just the nostalgia, it’s a reminder of her influence and the creative mark she’s left on pop music, fashion, society and international politics. She wears a crown not as a diva, but as an icon.

Even though many stops on the tour have featured unflattering moments like taking a fall on stage after a dancer dropped her, asking a man in a wheelchair why he was sitting down during the concert and some minor performance flaws, Madonna still delivers a first-class production worthy of her being one of the hottest concert tickets around the globe. 

Brian Blueskye covers arts and entertainment for the Desert Sun. He can be reached at [email protected] or on Twitter at @bblueskye.

• Search Please fill out this field.
• Manage Your Subscription
• Give a Gift Subscription
• Newsletters
• Sweepstakes

• Entertainment
• Soap Operas

The Stars of 'Dallas' Reunite 45 Years After the Show's Debut — See the Photos! (Exclusive)

Patrick Duffy, Linda Gray, Charlene Tilton, Audrey Landers, Steve Kanaly, Joan Van Ark, Sheree Wilson and Cathy Podewell met up on Tuesday in Palm Springs, California

Dallas heads to Palm Springs!

Dallas stars Patrick Duffy , Linda Gray , Charlene Tilton , Audrey Landers, Steve Kanaly, Joan Van Ark, Sheree Wilson and Cathy Podewell, as well as director Michael Preece, reunited at Oscar's in Palm Springs, California, on Tuesday ahead of the show's 45th anniversary — and PEOPLE has the exclusive photos.

Speaking about the show's legacy, Gray, 82, tells PEOPLE: "I think that Dallas was like daytime soaps that were very popular and Dallas came into play and it was gigantic and it filled that same need that people love to have a recurring story, suspense and something to look forward to."

Emma McIntyre

"Because the show ran for so many years, the audience got to know the characters so genuinely and they really cared for [them] and the characters all went through so much," Gray continues. "And I think the fans really loved to relate to the stories that were bigger than life. I think that they were definitely bigger than life so they could live vicariously through those characters. Dallas was so influential."

Duffy, 74, echoes his costar's sentiments, comparing Dallas to the likes of Succession and Yellowstone .

"Sometimes I watch and think we did that. If you think about basically every family drama except for Breaking Bad, we latched onto the premise that was not started with Dallas , but with Peyton Place , but then that was forgotten and Dallas took over."

"The way Dallas was written, it's standard writing template for shows that run any period of time from a few episodes onto years. But yeah, it all started with us," Duffy adds. "I really thought about it with Succession ."

Says Tilton, 64: "I think it was, to the best of my knowledge, the first show that gave you characters that were truly flawed, but they were loved by the audience. And every one of us had a major flaw, but still they were human and the audience still loved them."

Dallas ran for 14 seasons from 1978 to 1991, earning four Emmys along the way. The show followed the wealthy Ewing family and the drama that surrounded their booming oil business and their entangled personal lives.

When the show celebrated its 40th anniversary in 2018,  Victoria Principal (who played Pamela Barnes from 1978 until 1987) told PEOPLE she found the first five years of Dallas to be “some of the best television I’ve ever seen.”

“When I went in for the part on  Dallas,  I had already fallen in love with the show and with the part,” said Principal, 73. “So, my feeling from the moment I read it was that it was incredibly special and that I really, really wanted to be a part of it. I could not imagine not being Pam.”

In season 10, Principal’s run as Pam came to an end when her character, who had been pregnant, died in a car accident. “I wanted an ending that was definitive,” the actress said. “And I certainly felt that being blown up was definitive.”

Dallas continued for four more seasons and inspired a revival on TNT in 2012 that ran for three seasons. Fan-favorite characters return, including Duffy's Bobby, and Gray's Sue Ellen and even J.R. Ewing himself: Larry Hagman .

Sadly, after season 1 of the Dallas revival aired, Hagman died at age 81 that November.

“Larry Hagman was my best friend for 35 years. He was the Pied Piper of life and brought joy to everyone he knew,” Gray, 82, said in a statement released to PEOPLE at the time. “He was creative, generous, funny, loving and talented and I will miss him enormously. He was an original and lived life to the fullest. The world was a brighter place because of Larry.”

Much of the cast — including Hagman, Principal, Duffy, Gray, Kanaly and Tilton — reunited back in 2004 for a TV special titled Dallas Reunion: The Return to Southfork , referring to the fictional Texas land where the primetime soap opera took place.

“When I was on Dallas , it was such a whirlwind,” Tilton, 64, recalled to PEOPLE earlier this year. “At my age now, I'm more present. I don't feel the need to take every job, but I do make myself say yes to most things because I believe in saying yes, and trying new things and having opportunities."

Tilton also said she “couldn't wait to get older” during her Dallas days.

“I always saw myself as a character actress,” she said. “I really did. I just always said, "Someday I'm going to be a great character actress and I was chomping at the bit to do that."

While in Palm Springs, the cast will be appearing in a panel at Oscar's on Tuesday night. Duffy and Gray are also about to go on tour together .

Never miss a story — sign up for PEOPLE's free daily newsletter to stay up-to-date on the best of what PEOPLE has to offer, from juicy celebrity news to compelling human interest stories.

All 13 original seasons of Dallas can be streamed on Amazon Freevee.

Related Articles

• Twitter / X
• Readers' Choice
• Food & Drink
• Arts & Culture
• Travel Guides

Vote for your favorite bed and breakfast!

USA TODAY 10Best Readers' Choice Awards

If you're looking to experience the charm and hospitality of a destination, staying at a bed and breakfast can be a great idea. They offer a more intimate setting, where guests can get to know the hosts as well as other travelers. Not to mention, you'll enjoy a delicious home-cooked breakfast every morning, often featuring local specialties and fresh ingredients. If you're looking for a cozy retreat, a romantic getaway, or a cultural immersion, these 20 bed and breakfasts — nominated as the best in the U.S. by a panel of travel experts — do not disappoint.  Which bed and breakfast is your favorite? Help crown the winner by voting  once per day until voting ends on Monday, August 5 at noon ET. The 10 winners will be announced on Wednesday, August 14 at noon ET. Read the official  Readers' Choice rules .   

If you're looking to experience the charm and hospitality of a destination, staying at a bed and breakfast can be a great idea. They offer a more intimate setting, where guests can get to know the hosts as well as other...   Read More

Best Bed and Breakfast Nominees

Photo courtesy of Giselleflissak / E+

Balcony Guest House

New Orleans, Louisiana

Located on Royal Street, around seven blocks from New Orleans' French Quarter, the Balcony Guest House features six guest rooms all with private bathrooms. Two of the rooms include access to the property's namesake wraparound balcony overlooking the Marigny neighborhood. 

Photo courtesy of Prostock-Studio // Getty Images

Bellwether House

Savannah, Georgia

Get a feel for Savannah's Historic District at this charming bed and breakfast that feels more like a boutique hotel once you're inside. Free parking is included with all reservations, as is a full breakfast and afternoon tea. There's even a champagne sabering and toast every evening to kick off the opening of the full-service bar.

Photo courtesy of Jumping Rocks

Brampton Bed and Breakfast Inn

Chestertown, Maryland

Experience Maryland beyond Baltimore and the beaches, with a stay at Brampton Bed and Breakfast Inn. It's located on 35 acres surrounded by forests, with easy access to the Chestertown Historic District. You can stay in the 1860 Manor House or even have your own private cottage. Enjoy a locally-sourced breakfast before exploring the property's meadows and landscaped gardens.

Photo courtesy of Matt McGraw Photography

C.W. Worth House Bed & Breakfast

Wilmington, North Carolina

This Queen Anne-style bed-and-breakfast has just seven rooms, giving it a cozy, intimate feel. And guests of C.W. Worth House enjoy a farm-to-table breakfast each morning. Plus, the property is close enough to downtown and the Wilmington Riverwalk that you can walk to many restaurants and attractions. 

Cedar Gables Inn

Napa, California

Built in 1892, the Cedar Gables Inn includes 11 guest rooms perfect for any occasion ranging from a romantic getaway to a family vacation. Guests can start their day with the included homemade breakfast, and then easily explore downtown Napa on foot, where they can enjoy all that the scenic town has to offer. 

Photo courtesy of Gene Iverster

Elk Cove Inn & Spa

Elk, California

Overlooking the Mendocino coast, the Elk Cove Inn & Spa welcomes visitors to choose from a range of guest accommodations, from carriage house rooms to cliffside oceanfront cottages. Each morning, guests can start their day with a decadent breakfast crafted by chef Victor Passalacqua, who also oversees the dinner service at the inn's on-site restaurant, Sibo. 

Photo courtesy of Hidden Serenity Bed and Breakfast

Hidden Serenity Bed and Breakfast

West Bend, Wisconsin

Looking at a map, one can be forgiven for asking, "How do you get there?" The aptly named Hidden Serenity Bed and Breakfast is nestled in the woods, with a driveway that extends for a quarter-mile. The charming property includes a 1.3-mile wooded trail and a spa to help you relax even more than the bucolic setting demands. Luxury rooms with heated bathroom floors — and some with fireplaces — amp up the coziness.

Photo courtesy of Cynthia Samsel

The Historic Browning

Lee's Summit, Misssouri

Just two blocks from downtown Lee's Summit, The Historic Browning includes four bedrooms and four bathrooms, plus 3,000 square feet of living space open to guests. During their stay, guests enjoy a hot gourmet breakfast each morning, a welcome beverage at check-in, fresh-baked cookies, fresh fruit, and cold beverages. 

Photo courtesy of Waterfall Associates

The Historic Magnolia House

Greensboro, North Carolina

Music legends including Tina Turner, James Brown, and Ray Charles have stayed at The Historic Magnolia House, and the property's four guest rooms feature decor inspired by past guests. The property also happens to be one of a handful of Green Book sites still operating in North Carolina.

Photo courtesy of Jumping Rocks Photography

Holualoa Inn

Holualoa, Hawaii

The Holualoa Inn is located on a 30-acre estate in the Kona Coffee Belt. At 1,400 feet in elevation, visitors delight in spectacular ocean views and refreshing sea breezes. Well-appointed accommodations include the use of cotton robes and beach towels, and guests enjoy a daily gourmet breakfast.

Photo courtesy of FG Trade // Getty Images

The Homestead

Madison, Connecticut

Situated in a quintessential southern New England coastal town, The Homestead includes 11 individual rooms and has been run by the same family for three decades and three generations. Guests can explore the beautiful surroundings on complimentary beach cruiser bicycles.

Photo courtesy of Rafa Jodar / iStock Via Getty Images Plus

Inn at Playa Del Rey

Playa del Rey, California

Outside the hustle and bustle of Los Angeles, the Inn at Playa Del Rey invites guests relax in comfy rooms our suites that feature gorgeous views of Ballona Wetlands Ecological Reserve. Each day at the inn begins with a delicious breakfast while overlooking the scenery, but complimentary eats don't stop there. Guests also can partake in wine and savory bites during the afternoon wine hour, as well as fresh-baked cookies available each day. 

Photo courtesy of Pilgrim's Inn

Pilgrim's Inn

Deer Isle, Maine

This post-and-beam property that dates back to 1793 includes 12 guest rooms, as well as three cottages outfitted with kitchenettes and sleeper sofas. Pilgrim's Inn features scenic views, overlooking Northwest Harbor and Mill Pond, and it's listed on the National Register of Historic Places. It's a charming and hospitable home base for those looking to enjoy Downeast Maine.

Photo courtesy of Joshua Haines

The Publishing House

Chicago, Illinois

The Publishing House is ensconced in an early 20th-century industrial building, which now houses 11 guest rooms. Spacious living and dining areas complement the en suite accommodations, making it easy to get to know other Windy City guests at the daily gourmet breakfast or in the shared lounge.

Photo courtesy of fcafotodigital / E+

Seven on Shelter Island

Shelter Island Heights, New York

Seven on Shelter Island in New York offers visitors an idyllic escape in the form of a refurbished 1902 whitewashed farmhouse, complete with king and queen guest rooms. In addition to adorable breakfast baskets, guests can also enjoy a swimming pool, smart home gym, lawn and board games, and beach accessories.

Photo courtesy of TSG Columbus & Kismet Visuals

The Timbrook Guesthouse

Columbus, Ohio

The Timbrook Guesthouse is close enough to downtown Columbus for a big city experience but far away enough to make you feel like you're in the countryside. A tropical theme adds to the relaxed ambience, with common areas such as the Nui Hut (gazebo), Leilani's Lagoon (outdoor pool), and the Tropical Aviary (housing parrots).

Photo courtesy of Vrooman Mansion

Vrooman Mansion

Bloomington, Illinois

Whether you're doing a Route 66 road trip or looking to use Bloomington's White Place Historic District as your temporary base, the Vrooman Mansion is a great lodging option, with its 19th-century charm and history. The rooms are adorned with antique furnishings, some with their own ornamental fireplaces and claw-foot tubs.

Photo courtesy of Jeff Noe - The Welsh Hills Inn

The Welsh Hills Inn

Granville, Ohio

Any of the rooms and suites at The Welsh Hills Inn will feel like a home away from home, with luxurious linens and cozy furnishings. Admire the original works of art and antique furnishings that adorn the spaces and enjoy a full gourmet breakfast prepared with farm-fresh ingredients each morning.

Photo courtesy of borchee // Getty Images

Wickwood Inn

Saugatuck, Michigan

Wickwood Inn offers a serene waterside setting in Michigan — without having to make the jaunt to the Upper Peninsula. In addition to the seasonally inspired breakfast, guests can also enjoy locally sourced charcuterie in the evenings. Guest accommodations range from cozy rooms to luxurious estate suites.

Photo courtesy of Drew Gibbs

The Winchester Inn

Ashland, Oregon

Step back in time when you stay in one of the 21 well-appointed guest rooms and suites located in the main house, Heritage House, Carriage House, or one of the two cottages. Guests of Winchester Inn can enjoy a two-course breakfast each morning, and, come dinner time, enjoy a meal at the on-site Alchemy Restaurant. 

About 10Best Readers' Choice Awards

Nominees are submitted by a panel of experts. 10Best editors narrow the field to select the final set of nominees for the Readers’ Choice Awards. Readers can vote once per category, per day. For any questions or comments, please read the FAQ or email USA TODAY 10Best .

The Experts

Brian cicioni.

Brian enjoys exploring cities along public transit...   Read More

Brian enjoys exploring cities along public transit lines and writing about it at his blog, imayroam.com. He also writes about food tours, layovers, and exploring movie and musical landmarks.  Brian has traveled to 57 countries as well as every state. On weekends, he leads music and film-focused tours of New York City. His five-star rated Goodfellas Tour has been featured in Airbnb Magazine. Always happy to offer tips to aspiring travel writers and tour guides, Brian has been featured at the New York Times Travel Show as part of their Meet the Experts panel.

Dennis Malcolm "Ale" Sharpton

Dennis Malcolm Byron aka Ale Sharpton is a...   Read More

Dennis Malcolm Byron aka Ale Sharpton is a world-renowned beer authority, award-winning journalist, blogger ( AleSharpton.com ), photographer, event planner, host, speaker and beer judge to name a few of his roles. While passionately traveling the globe to cover everything from automobiles to culinary scenes, celebrity profiles, sports, hotel destinations, art, and what he terms “the world’s best beverage,” Ale has contributed to more than 30 magazines and websites combined. His current media outlets include USAToday , Thrillist.com , Craft Beer & Brewing , CraftBeer.com , Theinfatuation.com , ButterATL.com , James Beard Foundation , Atlanta Magazine , and others. Along with being featured in various publications, on the web, radio, podcasts, television, beer fests, conferences, and ongoing Cruisin’ For A Brewsin’ video series, Ale utilizes his Cornell University School of Hotel Administration education and vast work experience to consult in the culinary industry as well. Forbes , Smithsonian Institution, UNTAPPD, Good Beer Hunting , and numerous others have showcased Ale’s accomplishments. In a collaboration going on six years with brewing giant New Belgium, Ale has produced a beer he conceptualized called Piano Keys—a chocolate vanilla imperial stout—geared to support diversity and racial equality. This project with New Belgium also spawned his initiative, BrewGether , which raises funds to support nonprofits embracing the same mission as Piano Keys.  Ale proudly owns AllWays Open Creative Solutions, an agency specializing in creative direction, logo design, branding, web design, video production, photography, consulting, and social media. Although a native New Yorker, Ale proudly calls Atlanta his home. Follow Ale’s globetrotting adventures on his captivating Instagram ( @realalesharpton ).

Jacky Runice

Born in Bucktown (Chicago) when bulletproof was a...   Read More

Born in Bucktown (Chicago) when bulletproof was a home safety choice and not a coffee order, Jacky Runice has been knocking around Chicago as a professional print, online and broadcast journalist and editor specializing in separating the riff from the raff in culture, entertainment, food, travel and pure unadulterated fun. Jacky is a member of the International Food, Wine & Travel Writers Association (IFWTWA) and relies on her vast experience and gray matter to produce informative, entertaining content.

Jamie Davis Smith

Jamie is a travel writer who has visited over 50...   Read More

Jamie is a travel writer who has visited over 50 countries, many of them with her children in tow. She loves visiting everything from theme parks to ancient ruins and packs strictly carry-on-only. Jamie can be reached at [email protected].

Jenny Peters

Jenny Peters – aka Jet Set Jen – is a Los...   Read More

Jenny Peters – aka Jet Set Jen – is a Los Angeles-based freelance journalist, editor and party columnist specializing in travel, entertainment, film, food, wine, fashion and the other good things in life. She is a founding/voting member of the Critics Choice Association, who present the Critics’ Choice Awards every January. Her favorite places to be are on the beach in Southern California playing volleyball, scuba diving with the sharks in warm tropical waters or strolling the streets and soaking in the atmosphere of one of the world's great cities (New Orleans and Florence are her favorites).

Joanne and Tony DiBona

Travel memories may fade over time, but...   Read More

Travel memories may fade over time, but photographs recall those magical moments.

Katie McElveen

Writer Katie McElveen began her travel career when...   Read More

Writer Katie McElveen began her travel career when a wrong turn on the way to a family vacation took her on an eleven hour odyssey that she thoroughly enjoyed. Today, more than 40 countries later, her work has appeared in Real Simple, Southern Living, Global Traveler, Fodor’s, Virtuoso, Bride’s, Islands, Reader’s Digest, AFAR and other publications.

Melanie Reffes

Melanie is an island girl at heart . Born in...   Read More

Melanie is an island girl at heart . Born in Manhattan, she now lives on the sunny island of Montreal and covers  the Caribbean for a variety of publications  including  USA TODAY 10Best, CaribbeanTravel.com and MarryCaribbean.com.  A journalist with a boatload of writer awards under her belt, Melanie's affection for the Caribbean started  young when her family vacationed in Puerto Rico.   An avid fan of spicy food,   Melanie enjoys the diversity of Montreal - especially during the warmer months -when she's not en route to the Caribbean. She  holds a Masters Degree in Social Work from the University of Toronto. 

Melissa Curtin

At age 20 Melissa Curtin traveled around the world...   Read More

At age 20 Melissa Curtin traveled around the world on Semester at Sea, igniting her passion for globetrotting and learning about new cultures. She is a longtime educator, a Fora travel advisor, and has been a freelance travel and food writer for over 10 years - published in Lonely Planet, Fodor's, Insider, MSN, AAA World, Travel Awaits, and many more. Raised in Connecticut, she has joyfully lived in California the last 17 years splitting her time between Malibu and Palm Springs.

Tamara Gane

Tamara Gane is an expert panel member for 10Best...   Read More

Tamara Gane is an expert panel member for 10Best Readers' Choice Awards. She's based in Reno/Lake Tahoe and in addition to USA Today 10Best, her work has been published in Travel & Leisure, Fodor's Travel, The Washington Post, SF Gate, Houston Chronicle, Lonely Planet, and more.

10Best Editors

USA TODAY 10Best provides users with original,...   Read More

USA TODAY 10Best provides users with original, unbiased and experiential travel coverage of top attractions, things to see and do, and restaurants for top destinations in the U.S. and around the world.

Rancho Mirage Architectural & Celebrity Tour

About the rancho mirage architectural & celebrity tour.

While Palm Springs gets much of the spotlight when it comes to architectural marvels and celebrity homes, Rancho Mirage has nearly as much prestige! While some stars flocked to the busy Palm Springs hotspots, Rancho was more of a place where the biggest stars could fly under the radar and unbothered. And that’s great for us; it means fewer tall walls and hidden homes; many stars and the rich & famous were so comfortable out in Rancho Mirage, they didn’t bother to put up huge walls for privacy, making the homes on this tour extremely accessible. Take in outstanding examples of modernist architecture, marvel at the mid-century designs, and see some of the celebrity homes that are on display.

Tour Highlights

• Estimated Tour Duration: approximately 75-120 minutes
• See the architectural beauty of Rancho Mirage up close
• Explore the most important buildings in Rancho Mirage including those in the central core of the city and nearby historic neighborhoods
• Delve into the heart of mid-century Rancho Mirage with visits to some of the best known architectural marvels. Stops include the most iconic buildings in Rancho Mirage including the Kenaston Residence, Groucho Marx’ home and the iconic (and nearly lost!) Wave House nearby
• Learn how these home and buildings came to be so important—and how Rancho Mirage went from desert farmyard to celebrity playground
• Navigate iconic neighborhoods like Tamarisk Ranchos and Thunderbird
• See and learn the details and storied (or sordid!) histories of iconic homes —and the celebrity scandals that followed.

What to Know Before You Go

You will need your own vehicle for this self-driving tour (car, van, etc). This tour is approximately a 17 mile loop around Rancho Mirage and is geared towards those in an automobile; if you’re fit and want to try it on a bike, we salute you! This tour features an audio tour guide with interactive real-time mapping and directions that guide you from stop to stop, plus many photos of interiors and exteriors, so you’re fully able to appreciate Rancho Mirage modernism—at your own pace.

In some cases you will see the home facades and outdoor spaces, in others, we will get you as close as possible to private, gated or other spaces. We are unable to grant access to gated communities, and some homes are off limits, but we want you to enjoy great spaces and great stories.

All of our audio tours are self-guided and self-driving, so you can see things quickly, or speed up.

This Tour Includes

• Guided driving tour
• Detailed directions to some of the most interesting architecture in Rancho Mirage
• Integrated Google maps to help you get around
• Enjoy clear voice narration from your guide
• Factual and fascinating information about mid-century architecture & celebrity residents
• Original interior and exterior photographs of amazing homes & buildings
• *We will get you as close as possible to private homes, gated areas or other spaces for the best views, however we are unable to grant access to gated communities or private property.

Health & Safety

We take the health and safety of our guests and all Palm Springs residents seriously. We have set a series of standards that we hope you’ll welcome in the spirit of ensuring everybody is safe and comfortable and can courteously enjoy the lifestyle of the desert together.

• Please be safe while cycling or driving.
• In your car, obey all traffic laws.
• On a bike, use recommended safety gear.
• Don't drive or cycle while distracted; use your phone only while stopped.
• Please do not trespass or bother the homeowners.
• Be sure to drink plenty of water. Desert heat can sneak up on you. While fainting was cool back in old Hollywood, it’s not today, so stay safe!