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!  

This event qualifies for 2.5 AIA/CES Learning Units (LU).

$120

Things to Know
Bus tours depart promptly.
Please arrive at least 30 minutes prior to tour departure time to exchange your ticket for a boarding pass.
Boarding is 10 minutes before departure. If you have not checked in, your seat may be sold to a stand-by guest.
Late comers cannot be accommodated.
Seating: Tickets are for upper deck only.
Hats and sunscreen are highly recommended for sun exposure.
Wheelchair accessible for lower deck only.
Prohibited: Alcoholic beverages, smoking, vaping, food, glass containers, and pets.
Comfort Stop: Yes.
This event is EXTERIOR VIEWS ONLY.
This tour is for all ages.
Free parking is available on the street and at nearby public parking garages.
The organizer of this event is Modernism Week. 

Event Check-in Location
Hyatt Palm Springs, 285 N Palm Canyon Dr, Palm Springs, CA 92262
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Photo Credits: David A. Lee, Arianne Keens