Flashback 20 Years to Our First Premier Architectural Bus Tour

Join us as we roll back our Premier Architectural Bus Tour price to –the same as the first tour 20 years ago! One of the original Tour Guides will be on board to share history and anecdotes from our first tours.

The Premier Double Decker Architectural Bus Tour provides guests with a 2.5-hour overview of significant civic and commercial buildings and residential properties within notable Palm Springs neighborhoods, including the midcentury “leisure lifestyle” communities in South Palm Springs. Led by knowledgeable guides, this open-air experience offers unique exterior perspectives of Desert Spanish and midcentury Modern architecture, two predominant styles found in Palm Springs. From the oldest existing structure in Palm Springs, the McCallum Adobe, and the expansive grounds of the exclusive Villa Paradiso Estate, to Albert Frey's 800 square foot “Frey House II” perched on the mountainside, passengers will gain a better understanding of the historical richness and architectural diversity found in this desert oasis.

Tour highlights include exterior views of William Krisel's House of Tomorrow, Richard Neutra's architectural masterpiece, the Kaufmann Desert House, Donald Wexler & Richard Harrison's Steel Development Houses, and E. Stewart Williams' legendary “Twin Palms” estate, the former residence of Frank Sinatra. Other architecturally significant buildings on the tour will include Palm Springs City Hall, Saint Theresa Parish, and the iconic Tramway Gas Station, now the Palm Springs Visitors Center. Discover why Palm Springs is synonymous with Desert Modernism!

Photo Credits: David A. Lee, Arianne Keens.

Location & Attendee Information

  • What are the appropriate ages for this activity?Person Ages 10 and older
  • Are pets, animals, or service animals permitted?Dog on a leash No pets, service animals with prior notification
  • What is required for check-in at this activity?Clipboard Early arrival for check-in required
  • Are food and drinks permitted?Food and drink No food or drinks, water encouraged
  • What are the mobility considerations for this activity?Person walking Seated activity
  • What type of parking is available?Car Public parking available
  • Is photography permitted?Camera Photography permitted
  • Are restrooms available?Restroom sign Limited restroom availability
  • Is this an indoor or outdoor activity?Sun Outdoor activity
  • What is the policy regarding smoking?Cigarette with smoke No smoking or e-cigarettes
  • What type of tour is this?Group of people Exterior views only
  • What type of ADA accessibility is available?Wheelchair Wheelchair accommodations available

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  • The Homes That Define Palm Springs Bus Tour

    This 90-minute tour will feature some of the most popular neighborhoods in Palm Springs, showcasing the most spectacular home styles, including pre-war Spanish Colonial Revival and a range of midcentury Modern residential styles.

    Activity Date(s)Calendar
    Feb 13th - Feb 20th

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