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Giants of Architecture

Stroll South Palm Canyon Drive and see the most photographed and historically significant concentration of Midcentury Modern commercial buildings in the city. Hollywood moguls, glamorous movie stars and locals alike banked on the "Wall Street of Palm Springs” and shopped on this iconic strip at Saks Fifth Avenue and Robinsons. Visitors flocked here to the buy the latest in resort wear fashions.

Learn about the history of the Cahuilla tribe, early settlers, visionaries, and the giants of architecture responsible for making Palm Springs the Modernism magnet of the world.

Neighborhood: South Palm Springs

Photo Credits: Steven Portoles and Kathy Leonard, Palm Springs Historical Society

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
  • What are the mobility considerations for this activity?Person walking Walking activity
  • What type of parking is available?Car Free neighborhood street parking
  • 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 Guided exterior tour
The organizer of this event is: Palm Springs Historical Society

View more Walking Tours

  • Modernist Treasures: Lush living on the Links

    On ancestral land of the Agua Caliente Band of Cahuilla Indians is an attractive collection of luxurious Modernist residences with impressive landscapes lining the historic Indian Canyons Golf Resort.

    Activity Date(s)Calendar
    October 16 - October 19
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  • Celebrity Haven: Unique Boutique Resorts

    See close-up the inns and resorts that were, and remain today, havens for the stars. Many were designed and built after WWII when America's appetite for Modern design was the rage.

    Activity Date(s)Calendar
    October 16 - October 19
    View Details

  • Uptown Design District

    In the early glory days of our town, Hollywood stars and business magnates alike discovered this neighborhood, which provided them with all they needed to revel in sun-kissed days and star-filled nights.

    Activity Date(s)Calendar
    October 17 - October 19
    View Details
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Even More To Do At Modernism Week

Bus ToursEvent Category Bus Tours

100 Years of Modernism in Palm Springs

Starting with Frank Lloyd Wright Jr's 1925 Oasis Hotel, this fascinating mini-coach tour traces 100 years of Modernism in Palm Springs. Join guide Trevor O'Donnell for a deep dive into the city's architectural history.

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