Premier Double Decker Architectural Bus Tour

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. Lead by knowledgeable guides, this open-air experience offers unique, exterior perspectives of Desert Spanish 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, Saint Theresa Parish, and the iconic Tramway Gas Station, now the Palm Springs Visitors Center. Discover why Palm Springs is synonymous with Desert Modernism! 

2.5 LU's

$130 

Things to Know
Bus tours depart promptly.
Please arrive at least 30 minutes before the tour departure time to exchange your E-ticket for a Boarding Pass at the Bus Check-in Desk.
Check-in CLOSES 10 minutes before departure.
If you have not obtained a Boarding Pass, your seat will be sold to a stand-by guest.
Latecomers cannot be accommodated.
Seating: Tickets are for the upper deck only.
Hats, sunscreen, and bottled water are highly recommended.
Wheelchair accessible for lower deck only. If you are boarding a wheelchair, please provide 24 hours notice to [email protected]
Prohibited: Alcoholic beverages, smoking, vaping, food, glass containers, and pets. (Service animals with prior notification please)
This event is EXTERIOR VIEWS ONLY.
This tour is for ages 13 and older.
Free parking is available on the street and nearby public parking garages. During busy times, please allow extra time for parking.
Comfort Stop: Yes.
The organizer of this tour is Modernism Week.  

Event Check-in Location
Bus Depot
101 Museum Dr at Museum Way
Palm Springs, CA 92262
View Map

Photo Credits: David A. Lee, Arianne Keens.