Discover Palm Springs

Desert Modernism

In the 1920s and ‘30s, European architectural pioneers brought Palm Springs a taste of the International Style. Following their lead, more architects created their own regional style, “Desert Modernism” from the 1930’s to the 1970’s by paying attention to the desert’s vistas, sun and light. These bold, innovative structures expressed the spirit of their unique time and place. Hollywood stars enjoyed the architecture, city fathers embraced it, and by the mid-1950s, the middle class adopted it as well.

Today, Palm Springs is known as a mecca of modernism across the globe, attracting architects, designers, and lovers of all things mid- century. Albert Frey’s “Tramway Gas Station”, now the City’s Visitor Center, welcomes incoming travelers with a kite-shaped roof set against the backdrop of the San Jacinto Mountains and a bright blue sky.

Biking or strolling through the neighborhoods you’ll find our popular colored doors in shades like orange, turquoise, sky blue and bluish green.

Tribal History

For at least 5,000 years, the Palm Springs area has been home to the Agua Caliente Band of Cahuilla Indians. The Cahuilla Indian name for the Palm Springs area was Sec-he (boiling water) and the Spanish who arrived named it Agua Caliente (hot water). Then came the name “Palm Springs” in reference to both the native Washingtonia palm tree and the hot mineral springs on the tribal lands. Today, remnants of the traditional Cahuilla society exist in the exquisite canyons that the tribe has worked to protect, while current tribal leaders work within the community to help strengthen and protect today’s modern city.

The Agua Caliente Cultural Plaza, once open, will be a 5.8acre complex in downtown Palm Springs that features a new cultural museum and education garden. The Spa at Séc-he, adjacent to the Plaza, honors the history and heritage of the Tribe while introducing a new generation to the sacred hot mineral spring’s restorative properties.