The Ocotillo Lodge - Palmer & Krisel’s Vision of Midcentury Vacation Glamour

Immerse yourself in the Alexander Company, Palmer and Krisel’s magnificent hotel turned private community, the iconic Ocotillo Lodge! Join us for our first ever, exclusive community tour and enjoy eight interior units, groovy music, classic cars and appearances by one of the Marilyn’s of Palm Springs and Drag Queen, Sabryna Williams, as Lucille Ball.

The Ocotillo Lodge opened in 1957 and was designed to bring architectural innovation and the luxury hotel experience to South Palm Springs as part of the larger Twin Palms development. With an innovative site plan that includes a two-story building facing E. Palm Canyon Drive and one-story bungalows on three sides of the pool, guests could enjoy short term hotel or long-term seasonal stays. 

Each unit has a kitchenette and originally featured thoughtful design touches such as skylights in the bathrooms, jalousie windows to provide venting in kitchens, clerestory windows with palm tree and mountain views, and deep overhanging eaves for shade from the intense desert sun. Rooms were either 525 or 590 square feet, and all feature private or semi-private outdoor space in addition to the gorgeous shared grounds, originally designed by internationally acclaimed landscape architect, Garrett Eckbo. 

The Ocotillo Lodge was later famously owned by the Singing Cowboy, Gene Autry and LA Lakers Owner, Jerry Buss! 

In addition to the eight uniquely designed units (including one with William Krisel’s signature on the original cupboards), you’ll have an opportunity to explore the grounds of the famous complex. The historic Club House is currently closed, but you will be able to imagine the days of midcentury poolside glamour as you view our famous keyhole shaped pool where rumored guests such as Elizabeth Taylor, Marilyn Monroe, Lucille Ball, Perry Como, the Rolling Stones and the Rat Pack enjoyed the Palm Springs lifestyle. Our vintage outdoor Sunshine Bar will contain an extensive exhibition about the Ocotillo Lodge architect William Krisel and retro Ocotillo Lodge memorabilia will be on display.

Tour proceeds will go towards further restoration of our beautiful midcentury property. 

$95

Things to Know
This event is for ages 18 and older.
There are eight (8) homes on this tour. 
Please park in the vacant lot beside William Krisel Way or on the street. Parking at the Ocotillo Lodge property is strictly for residents only.
Please arrive promptly at the start time of your ticket.
Please check-in at the Ocotillo Lodge Club House at the front of the building
There are some exterior and/or interior steps.
The organizer of this event is Ocotillo Lodge.

Event Check-in Location

Ocotillo Lodge,  Community, 1111 E Palm Canyon Drive, Palm Springs, CA 92264
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Photo Credits: Ocotillo Lodge