Visit Mid-Century Modern masterpieces in stunning desert settings.

If you're a fan of Mid-Century Modern design, Palm Springs could be your Mother Lode. Stars of the silver screen who made their homes here could afford to pay the architectural stars of their time, and in the region's 1950s and '60s boom time, that meant the region became Ground Zero for the sleek, minimalist designs of iconic architects like Albert Frey, Richard Neutra, and William F. Cody.

You can take a self-guided tour, or join various guided tours (including one on Segways). Best place to start is at the Swiss-born Albert Frey’s most famous Palm Springs design, the soaring, wedge-shape Tramway Gas Station on the edge of town. The structure, nearly torn down in the name of revitalization, is now home to the Palm Springs Visitors Center , where you can pick up a helpful guide, Palm Springs: Brief History and Architectural Guide, loaded with helpful information and destinations. Also ask about guided tours at the visitors center.

February 16, 2012 5:30 PM to February 26, 2012 9:30 PM
A ten day event focusing on mid-century modern design and architecture events and programs in Palm Springs. Over 75 events including Palm Springs Modernism Show at the Convention Center; Frey II House Tours; Double Decker Bus Tours, films, lectures, interior design tours, swanky parties and other special events.