Modernism Week's signature bus tour! The Premier Double Decker Architectural Bus Tour provides guests with an overview of the most significant midcentury architectural treasures of Palm Springs.

Modernism Week’s signature tour! The Premier Double Decker Architectural Bus Tour provides guests with a 2.5-hour overview of significant civic and commercial buildings, as well as residential properties located 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 Spanish Colonial Revival 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, St. Theresa Catholic Church 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 13 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 Restrooms not available
  • 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 Limited wheelchair accessibility
The organizer of this event is: Modernism Week

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