Museums in Palm Springs
“Recognizing the need is the primary condition of design.”
— Charles Eames
Palm Springs has been a destination for artists and designers for nearly a century. The unique combination and quality of landscape and light has inspired luminaries from Georgia O’Keefe and Charles Eames to Ansel Adams and Frank Lloyd Wright.
Today, Palm Springs remains one of the best places in the country for all things mid-century modern. Characterized by its clean lines, organic shapes and functionality, mid-century modern is to design what Jazz is to music – iconic, timeless and distinctly American. From architecture and design to sculpture and public art, our city is a living museum that continues to influence this century’s art and design masters. It’s why so many creatives call Palm Springs home.
Parker Palm Springs, named as a favorite 5-star hotel in Palm Springs by readers of Condé Nast, is a stunning homage to the history, art and design of the Coachella Valley. Located on thirteen private acres, the interiors were created by the world-renowned Jonathan Adler, and have been wowing guests since 2004. Both dramatic and whimsical, no two spaces on our property are exactly alike, allowing you to discover something new at every turn. For aficionados of mid-century modern architecture and design, it is the perfect location from which to explore Palm Springs.
Being aficionados ourselves, we feel qualified to recommend some must-see Palm Springs museums that celebrate the mid-century modern aesthetic.
Perhaps no museum in the country is more renowned for its mid-century modern collection than the Palm Springs Art Museum. Since relocating to its current home in 1976, it has evolved into one of the most influential art institutions in America. The museum is a showcase for modern and contemporary art, architecture, and design. World renowned and highly recommended.
Palm Springs Architecture and Design Center
Adjacent to the Art Museum, the Architecture and Design Center (ADC) is the “hub of Palm Springs Art Museum’s exploration of architecture and design and features related exhibitions.” The collection includes the historically significant Frey House II designed by legendary architect Albert Frey and the off-site Faye Sarkowsky Sculpture Garden, located in Palm Desert.
For an up-close and personal tour of architecturally significant homes in Palm Springs, consider a guided bike tour by the Palm Springs Historical Society. If you prefer to pedal at your own pace, take one of our complimentary guest bicycles and we will provide you with the map and directions.
Mid-century modern design has its roots in the new technologies developed during World War II. After the war, as the country came roaring back, designers were inspired by the possibilities of materials such as aluminum, foam, plastic laminates, and fiberglass to create an aesthetic that defined the childhood of the baby boom generation and beyond.
The Palm Springs Air Museum is a living historical museum that showcases many significant examples of this influence. It preserves and exhibits a variety of important aircraft from WWII and many of the planes in its collection are still in flyable condition.
There is no better place to appreciate your adventure than back at our estate, a living museum in its own right. After a refreshing dip in one of our three pools, a meal at the stylish and decadent mister parker’s, and a nightcap in our amazing lobby lounge, you may just realize that the perfect Palm Springs getaway is the aesthetic you have been searching for.
About Us
Parker Palm Springs receives regular accolades as the best luxury hotel in Palm Springs. We offer only 144 rooms on thirteen acres of exclusive, private property. To help plan your next vacation, weekend escape, special event, or wedding, please Contact us.
Call 760-321-4606 or email us with questions
