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March in Palm Springs: Activities Galore

Village Fest Palm Springs

March is one of the best times to visit Palm Springs. The weather is balmy, lots of flowers are in bloom, and activities abound.  Whatever your interest may be — hiking, biking, culture, art, shopping, history, entertainment, eating or drinking — there is so much going on.  Here are some ideas about what to do in Palm Springs in March.

Month of March:  Photographs from celebrated photographer, Michael Childers, will be featured in an exhibit titled “Rockin’ Hollywood,” which opens February 29 at the Palm Springs Cultural Center. The exhibit features portraits of such Hollywood greats as Elton John, Cher, John Travolta, Rod Stewart, and Ringo Starr and includes the fascinating history behind the celebrities portrayed.

March 4:  First Wednesday Art Walk at the Backstreet Art District, 2600 Cherokee Way, from 7 to 10 p.m. Art galleries and artists’ studios are open for art lovers to enjoy original art by local, national, and international artists. This is an amazing opportunity to interact with artists and to view their paintings, sculpture, photography, ceramics and jewelry, while savoring refreshments and vibrant camaraderie.

 

March 5, 12, 19, 26: Palm Springs Villagefest is a street fair held every Thursday along Palm Canyon Drive (between Baristo and Amado roads) in downtown Palm Springs, 6 to 10 p.m. More than 180 vendors feature food, art, crafts, and entertainment. This is always a wonderful time for sampling some great food, mingling, and shopping.

March 6:  Pulitzer prize-winning journalist Bob Woodward will be speaking about his career and current issues. Woodward is best known for uncovering the Watergate scandal with Carl Bernstein in 1973. Celebrated for his investigative skills and fair, objective approach, Woodward should be a fascinating speaker. He will offer a knowledgeable perspective on what’s happening in politics today. Richards Center for the Arts, 2248 Ramon Road, 7:30 to 9:30. Tickets $30 to $150 can be purchased online at https://www.eventbrite.com/e/palm-springs-speaks-presents-bob-woodward-tickets-67044334409

March 7 & 8; March 21 & 22:  Desert Art Festival will be held at Frances Stevens Park, 555 N. Palm Canyon Drive, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Artists present their works in all media for visitors to view and purchase. This beautiful setting in Uptown Palm Springs is an idyllic spot for a leisurely weekend stroll. Admission is free.

March 7:  Wildflower 5K Fun Run/Walk at the Civic Center, 43900 San Pablo, Palm Desert. This is a family friendly event with strollers and dogs welcomed. Registration opens at 7 a.m. and RSVPs are required. Registration fee is $30 and includes a t-shirt. RSVP at https://www.desertmountains.org/calendar/2020wf-5k-ccpark

March 9-11:  Max Von Essen is performing at the Annenberg Theatre at the Palm Springs Art Museum, 101 Museum Drive, 6 p.m.  Max has won many awards, including a Grammy.  He has starred in the Lincoln Center’s revival of Falsettos and has appeared in Jesus Christ Superstar, Evita and Les Miserables. This should be a truly inspiring and entertaining performance. To purchase tickets, go to the Annenberg website (link above).

March 11:  Let’s Talk: Walk a Mile in My Shoes. Anthony Purnel, a member of the Agua Caliente Band of Cahuilla Indians, discusses the many challenges he faced during his inspiring 132-day hike from Mexico to Canada along the Pacific Crest Trail. Palm Springs Cultural Center, 2300 East Baristo Road, 6 p.m. $10 for members of the Cultural Center and $20 for non-members.

March 13-15; March 20-22: How to Survive an Apocalypse is a surprisingly delightful romantic comedy (despite the title) about a young, stylish couple who are convinced that their chic, partying lifestyle is coming to an end. They become hoarders and hunters and learn a lot about their relationship. At the Palm Springs Woman’s Club, 314 S. Cahuilla Rd. Tickets available via website (link above).

March 7, 14, 21 & 28:  The Certified Farmers Market is held every Saturday morning at the Palm Springs Cultural Center, 2300 Baristo Road, from 8 to 12:30. This bustling outdoor market features a seasonal variety of fresh food products, craft items, and chef demonstrations.

March 27:  Palm Springs Community Drum Circle. This unique, inspiring experience is led by sound healer, Scott Meredith, and held at the Gallery at Crystal Fantasy, 268 N. Palm Canyon Drive, downtown Palm Springs. Free event.

March 29: Slim Man Rat Pack Big Band Show.  Award-winning jazz vocalist, Slim Man, leads a 17-piece big band with favorite songs from the 60s, recreating the era of Frank Sinatra, Dean Martin, Bobby Darin and Nat King Cole. At the Annenberg Theatre at the Palm Springs Art Museum, 101 Museum Drive, 5-8 p.m. Tickets available at  www.slimman.com

Also keep in mind that the Palm Springs Historical Society offers a wide variety of walking and biking tours throughout March, such as tours focusing on such topics as Architecture & Glamour, Rat Pack Playground, Frank Sinatra’s Neighborhood, Modernist Treasures, Uptown Design District and many more. To see what is available and sign up, go to the society’s website (link above).

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Palm Springs Benches Enhanced with Art

Can you take a dark-brown cement bench and turn it into art while still maintaining its function for resting or people-watching? The answer in Palm Springs is an unequivocal, yes.

Mainstreet Palm Springs’ Downtown and Uptown Business Association have upgraded the benches throughout the entire area thanks to a grant by the Palm Springs Art Commission. Local artists, representing  the culture and diversity of  the valley, were each paid a stipend for giving a new look and life to 70 benches, including 8 at the Palm Springs International Airport.

Initially, local artist Tysen Knight was commissioned to paint ten benches to test the concept. And they were a big hit. Functional and eye-catching, the colorful benches became the focus of many visitors’ photos. With the success of the first phase, phase two was approved.

Each bench looks like this before it receives its new life. As you can see, the artists have a blank canvas to design and apply their art.

A before shot of the plain brown benches have been transformed by local artists.

A before shot of the plain brown benches have been transformed by local artists.

Here are examples of the benches created by our local artists from our culturally diverse community.

Abe Alvarez Tostado

Abe Alvarez Tostado colorful bench in Palm Springs evokes community heart and unity.

A resident of Yucca Valley. In his younger years, he was interested in comics. Then with his Mom, who was an artist, he started going to art galleries. His artistic talents were encouraged by friends that surrounded him at Long Beach, California. He has painted murals in San Francisco, Long Beach, Los Angeles, San Diego, and Palm Springs for over 30 years. 

Susan Gresto

Artist Susan Gresto’s bench in iconic Palm Springs hues of oranges and blues features free-spirited winged humans greeting one another.

A resident of Palm Springs. It brings her great joy to mentor students, support community art programs. Her work has been exhibited and sold at the Palm Springs Art Museum Store, University of California Riverside, the Community Gallery at Palm Desert City Hall, Indio Senior Center, and CREATE Center for the Arts Palm Desert.  

Tim J Leary

Tim Leary created a bold geometric and linear bench design.

A resident of Indio.  His work as a visual merchandiser spanned 28 years and three states: Florida, Connecticut, and California. After moving to San Francisco, he completed his formal education, studying spirituality and art, and art therapy. He has a studio in the Backstreet Art District in Palm Springs.

Jessica Frederic

A bright lime-green bench with palm fronds and yellow and black birds came to life by artist Jessyca Frederick.

A resident of La Quinta. After years of searching, she now uses her creativity and problem-solving skills to create art. With encouragement from friends and artists, this bench is her first piece of public art.

Paul Kole

Paul Kole created a word-art bench with a bright white background and multi-colored letters that remind visitors of the joys found in Palm Springs.

He resides in Orange County, Palm Springs, Arizona, and International resort stay-cations. His abstract work on wood and other materials are in the United States and international collections. He has a working studio in Palm Desert, California.

Stroll up and down Canyon Drive to see these creative benches. They most certainly will bring a smile to your face. Oh, if you need to stop and rest, be our guest, and remember, we have great people-watching in Palm Springs.

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The Palm Springs Cultural Center Is The Community Heartbeat of Diversity

The Palm Springs Cultural Center's logo of a palm tree in front of rainbow colors on a black background

If you’re looking for a one-stop cultural shop for film festivals, a farmers’ market, live performances, arts programs, theater productions, lectures, food, libations, and more, look no further than the Palm Springs Cultural Center. 

Since its grand opening in 2019, the Palm Springs Cultural Center has been dedicated to offering diverse programming, and is certainly catching its stride this year with an impressive 2023 lineup and experiences. The center truly feels like the cultural heartbeat of our community here in the Coachella Valley.

The Camelot Theatre. Photo courtesy of the Palm Springs Cultural Center

The Palm Springs Cultural Center was founded in 2007 by Palm Springs philanthropists Ric and Rozene Supple. In 1999, the Supples bought and refurbished the historic Camelot Theatres building, and operated it as a three-screen complex with a full bar and restaurant. They introduced a list of prestigious events to the community, including Cinema Diverse and the Palm Springs International Film Festival. When the Supples gifted the Camelot Theatres building to the Palm Springs Cultural Center in 2017, they instilled their legacy and lifelong dedication to culture and the arts here in Palm Springs.

Ric and Rozene Supple. Photo courtesy of the Palm Springs Cultural Center

The newly-minted Palm Springs Cultural Center opened its doors in January 2019, and the PSCC team set out to “incubate, produce, and encourage arts and cultural programs in order to leverage the unique power of creativity to open minds, bridge what divides us, and discover what connects us.” Its diverse programming aimed to inspire learning and deepen the relationships with the local community, and recognized the interconnection between the cultural arts and food culture. After introducing its first theater company and producing its first show, COVID took the world by storm, and like so many others, the Palm Springs Cultural Center had to close its doors. 

Welcome to the Palm Springs Cultural Center. Photo courtesy of the Palm Springs Cultural Center

However, the Farmers Market continued to operate throughout the pandemic, being deemed a necessary business. A little over a year later, the Palm Springs Cultural Center re-opened, reignited its theater program, and brought live music to the mix. After speaking with Palm Springs Cultural Center Executive Director Michael Green, Nunzio Sisto entered the picture as music program director, introducing classical music and further diversifying both the music and theater programs.

Gregory Douglass performs at the Palm Springs Cultural Center. Photo courtesy of Gregory Douglass

The PSCC team’s ongoing mission for the Farmers’ Market is to serve the community as the only one in the Coachella Valley that matches dollar-for-dollar (up to $15 per person) for those who are in need of food and part of low-income and/or senior food programs. For instance, a family of four may be entitled to $60 worth of matching funds every week. This program echoes the Palm Springs Cultural Center’s dedication to making its programming as accessible as possible for all income levels.

What’s more, the PSCC team also aspires to remain a good community partner, offering its space to organizations in need of a place to gather for meetings or rehearsals, like the Sunrise Park Neighborhood Association, The L-Fund, and the Youth Training Orchestra.

The radical shift to home box office streaming content has changed the game for movie theater-goers over the years. Even major theater chains have suffered, but the Palm Springs Cultural Center has pivoted its focus to revival films and special event screenings, making for more integrated, memorable experiences. A recent Valentine’s Day screening of Moulin Rouge featured curated grazing boxes of special love-themed treats to enjoy throughout the film. In addition, local gay organization Among Friends presents ongoing gay cult classic films that are as immersive as they are entertaining.

The “Moulin Rouge” snack boxes. Photo courtesy of the Palm Springs Cultural Center

If you’re curious about all that lies ahead, check out the Palm Springs Cultural Center’s 2023 lineup. Highlights include the Glenn Miller Orchestra in music (March 13), Martin Sherman’s GENTLY DOWN THE STREAM in theater (through March 4), Jimmy Dore Live in comedy (March 25), the American Documentary Film Festival in film (March 30 – April 3), and the Palm Springs Certified Farmers’ Market (each Saturday). There’s also weekly live music upstairs in the lounge, featuring local musicians like Keisha D, Mon Petit Salon with Jeremie Levi, and Leanna & the Jazz Collective.

Leanna & The Jazz Collective. Photo courtesy of the Palm Springs Cultural Center

Of course, all this diverse programming costs money. The Palm Springs Cultural Center is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization, which means that it relies on the ongoing support of the very community it serves. You can help PSCC by becoming a sustaining member in exchange for enjoying complimentary screenings, member-only discounts, and pre-sale opportunities. You can also make a tax-deductible donation, sign up for the PSCC’s newsletter, and even ​purchase a seat (or several) for yourself and to honor someone else in the community.

The Modern Men’s Gay Chorus performs on stage. Photo courtesy of the Palm Springs Cultural Center

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Fests Of The West: Film Festivals In Greater Palm Springs

The logo for the 2020 Palm Springs International Film Festival

Everyone knows it’s always sunny in Palm Springs, but did you know it’s always teeming year round with film festivals too? 

They’re all fantastic and they’re all very different. So, I’m going to tell you about them. But first I’m going to tell you — in other people’s words — why the ones in Palm Springs are always held at the Palm Springs Cultural Center (PSCC).

Beth Fromm, the executive director of the Desert Film Society, says the buzz in the festival community is not only about the very cool space; for filmmakers and cinephiles, it’s about the tech specs that make the viewing so much better than your average screens. The PSCC has “theatrical grade HD digital projection on a 58-foot screen along with great sound — a combo not easy to find at other festivals or cities,” Fromm said. Yes, that’s screens with an “s” as in a cineplex. It’s retro-chic with great memorabilia decorating every space that will have them. 

Alan K. Rode, executive director and curator of the Arthur Lyons Film Festival (now in its 22nd year!), is pretty sweet on the space too. “You have a projection booth that has no equal in terms of capability,” he said. “I think you have to go to Los Angeles to find a projection booth that can project 70mm film, 35mm film, and all manner of both the digital DCP digital control pack, which is the nominal way of projecting films and theaters on the stage, and also physical media projection all in one building.” On top of all that, he added, there are “three theaters, a restaurant, two bars, an elevator and a spiral staircase!”

You heard the man correctly: two bars and a restaurant (sounds vaguely like a Beck song — “two turntables and a microphone…”). Upstairs you’ll find the best of the best local live entertainment on *gasp* weeknights. We have a lot of talent out here, you’re missing out if you haven’t seen any of it.

I could give you a ton more testimonials about the space, but let’s get to those festivals.

Festivals At The Palm Springs Cultural Center

The wildly popular Cinema Diverse celebrating LGBTQ+ films started on Sept. 21 and is running on the weekends through October 1. Click that there link for the full schedule. The festival is dedicated to advancing and further strengthening our diverse gay community through the establishment of a world-class film festival presenting lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender cinema from around the world. Got it? Go!

A banner for Cinema Diverse

Courtesy of Cinema Diverse

Planned Parenthood Women’s Fest — Nov. 12, 2023. As described on its website: “This special event directly benefits Planned Parenthood of the Pacific Southwest, raising funds directed toward local programs and services throughout San Diego, Riverside, and Imperial Counties.” Telling women’s stories.

Jewish Film Fest — Stories being told about and by Jews from around the world. They have not yet announced for next year, but last year it was held in March.

Arthur Lyons Film Noir — This fest, founded in 2020 by the late mystery author, “includes acclaimed and obscure black and white ‘B’ movies from the 1940s and 1950s, as well as a few special appearances from some of the stars.” Generally held in May.

Palm Springs International Film Festival — All the big names come in for this huge fest, and it’s quite a production. If there’s a new hot spot in the Coachella Valley in the first week of January, you’ll likely see a celebrity or two dining there. 

Courtesy of the Palm Springs International Film Festival

Palm Springs International ShortFest — Designated by AMPAS, BAFTA, BIFA, and the Goya Awards as an award-qualifying festival, and accredited by the International Short Film Conference, the Palm Springs International ShortFest & Short Film Market is one of the most acclaimed short film showcases in the world.

Desert Film Society  — The Desert Film Society says it “promotes the appreciation of film in the Coachella Valley by providing Society members a unique opportunity to view the latest in art, international, and cutting-edge independent cinema and educating members by providing a platform for discussion of the art of film and film craft.” 

Bow Wow Film Festival — All for the love of dogs. No canine filmmakers that I’m aware of. Held in May last year.

Cinema Français — Feb. 2-4, 2024. New award-winning, French-language films and filmmakers.

Amdocs — March 21-25, 2024. American documentary and animation film festival.

More Festivals

Down Syndrome International Film Festival — Oct. 6, 2023, at Mary Pickford D’Place in Cathedral City.

Yucca Valley Film Festival — In it’s fifth year. Nov. 10-12, 2023

Idyllwild Cinema Festival — March 5-10, 2024. The Hollywood Reporter called it “The Greatest Little Film Festival on Earth.”

And that’s a wrap, folks! See you at the movies.

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Viewing Public Art in Palm Springs on Foot

Wake up in Palm Springs with the sun gloriously shining and grab your glamorous floppy hat, recyclable water bottle, and sunglasses. It doesn’t matter if the museums are closed because there’s so much fabulous public art to explore in Palm Springs.

Start your walking tour in the Uptown Design District on North Palm Canyon.

First Stop – Palm Springs Desert Art Center

The center for Palm Springs creative arts is the Desert Art Center at 550 N Palm Canyon Dr, Palm Springs, CA 92262. Often overlooked, this grand building is the home for numerous art classes, exhibits, and theatre performances. One of our city’s latest art installations is on the Desert Center’s palatial grass-covered lawn.

MIDABI is an artist and philosopher focused on large-scale public art using text in sculptures and murals. Residing in Palm Springs since 1998, with family roots going back to the 1950s, MIDABI continues a family tradition of contributing artistically to the desert.

Large, bold, and thought-provoking, MIDABI creates works of art that seek to inspire and challenge the viewer to think for themselves and see reality differently. One may feel shaken, for emotional core values may be questioned.

Since you have your walking shoes on, head on down Palm Canyon; along the way, you will see colorful benches to rest upon, which our local artists created.

Second Stop – Koffi North

If you want to have a cup of coffee, you might want to stop at Koffi North. Be sure to go straight through the store to the back and see the courtyard. The locals hang out here during non-Covid times.

Third Stop – Near the Palm Springs Art Museum

Now that your energy is restored, head down to Museum Way and turn right.

Before you get to the Palm Springs Art Museum and located in what we locals call the “Sand Pit,” (and future home of an underground parking lot) are ten sculptures, 11 ft long X 9-foot fiberglass babies. A barcode replaces any semblance of a face.

Czech artist David Cerny has loaned this art installation to Palm Springs through 2022. He wanted to make a statement about the dehumanization of society due to big tech and data. We are betting you will have an opinion.

Check out the wall on your left as you overlook the Sand Pit. You’ll spot a mural by Santa Monica artist, Peter Tigler, who worked with attendees of all ages to create this 7-foot-tall-by15-wide mural at the Annual La Quinta Arts Festival in 2019. Look closely; it was created by finger painting. The bright colors and numerous scenes invoke the sense of “Wish you were here.” It’s a great place to take a selfie to post your social media.

Fourth Stop – Graffiti Park

Across the street from the Sand Pit is our Graffiti Park. While waiting for the area to be developed, artists are encouraged to express themselves through their art. The various cement pillars and stones, remnants of past construction, serve as canvases. The art is constantly changing, so be sure to come back and see it on your next visit.

Fifth Stop – Right Side of Palm Springs Art Museum

The Palm Springs Art Museum is closed, but the parking lot holds a surprise. Check out the Road Signs scattered throughout the premises. They were created by artist Gerald Clark, who identifies himself first as an artist; and secondly, a Cahuilla Indian.

These Road Signs were created for an exhibit of his work in the Palm Springs Art Museum a couple of years ago. Walk to the museum’s right side first, then see the rest of them on the museum’s left side.

Sixth Stop – Left Side of the Palm Springs Art Museum

After you have pursued both sides of the museum, you will see a large semi-truck parked in the parking lot. In the semi is a three-story all-metal house, called the Aluminare House, designed by Albert Frey and A. Lawrence Kocher. The house was donated to the Palm Springs Art Museum for its permanent collection and will be reassembled in 2021. It is considered to be one of the most outstanding examples of Modernist architecture in the world.

We hope you have enjoyed this tour of some of our public art. There are many more installations–both inside and outside–scattered throughout the city. However, we wanted to give you a small taste of the many treasures that await your visit to Palm Springs.

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PS: Fun, Fashionable and Instagram Ready

Created by ArtsTank Greater Palm Springs grant winner Peter Tigler and attendees of the 37th La Quinta Arts Festival

Welcome to Palm Springs, where the sun shines 360 days of the year. We’re fun, fashionable and Instagram ready, and hoo boy do I have a lot to share. And thank the Stars (Walk of Stars), a lot of wonderful friends helped me with this particular blog. So, big shout outs to Francesca Amari, one of our finest vocalists in the valley; and Nick Singleton, Desert War Veteran, and the social media man who never misses an event.

We’ve got a bit of walking ahead, and it’s okay to bring the dog. But make sure she’s wearing shoes, and you should put on some comfy ones, too. Don’t forget to apply sunscreen and treat yourself to an umbrella. It covers those bare arms and shoulders better than a hat. You can get one at Destination PSP, one of the best places to get Palm Springs swag and after you browse (and you will) we’ll get to Instagramming.

Murals & Art Installations:

The Sandbox: Amanda Gorman by MisterAlek, and The Babies, sculptures by David Cerney. Photo courtesy of Jim Powers.

We’ve got a lot of murals in Palm Springs. Some are easy to get to, like the Greetings photo, but some – like the ones next to it in the pit with The Babies by David Cerney – are not. Not because they’re difficult to find but because no one seems to know if you’re allowed in the sandbox yet. After calling four places, I finally got an answer: you’re not. Yet. BUT you can see all of the installations from above and there are more in that general vicinity between the Art Museum and the Kimpton Plaza (KP).

In the Plaza, you can find the Angel Wings, and the PS I *Heart* U installation; they’re just around the corner from each other. The Desert Glow mural can be found on Palm Canyon Drive in the strip of retail stores attached to the KC Mall.

Isabelle by Julian Voss-Andreas

This is my favorite piece of art in Palm Springs. Created by artist Julian Voss-Andreas, Isabelle is different from every view, and with every drop of sunlight, or moonlight. From some angles, she seems to disappear completely.

Heavily-filtered shot of Graffiti Park

Behind the Plaza, is a plethora of art. Let’s start a little north of the Plaza, across from Stout Burgers and Beer and Haus of Poke on the corner of Museum Way and Belardo. It’s called Graffiti Park, and it is teeming with street art.

Courtesy of Jim Powers and Palm Springs Art Museum

On the other side of the Sandbox (where the babies are) is a brand new installation: Gonzalo Librija’s History of Suspended Time. Presented in the lot across from Palm Springs Art Museum’s main campus, it will remain on-site for a year. In this piece, a car appears to defy gravity and time as if hanging suspended over a pool of liquid approximately 40-feet in diameter.

Palm Springs takes pride in their storied history, and Lucille Ball called it her home away from Hollywood for years. She can be found on the northeast corner of Palm Canyon and Tacquitz. Her statue looks a little sad. Stop by and give her some Insta-love.

Scattered throughout the valley is a series of more than 50 benches funded by the Palm Springs Public Arts Commission. The previous link will show you where they all are, and this article, by my colleague, Kathy Condon, tells you all about them. Also, keep your eyes peeled for the new art installations that are going up all over town to beautify our electric boxes and trash cans.

I’ve lived here for seven years now, and I’d never been to The Corridor. Boy, was I missing out. I knew the shops were there, but didn’t realize through their actual corridor there is a “secret garden” with whimsical art installations. It’s beautiful. Truly. And you can enjoy a coffee and then browse the shops.

Nick Singleton with all the neon at Boozehounds

At the north end, just south of the iconic Toucans, is a new place called Boozehounds. If you’ve been walking with your pup, or even if you’re not, stop in for a bite and grab a few snaps while you’re at it. Be forewarned, it’s a bit of a hike in distance, not topography.

Nick Singleton at V Wine Lounge

Time to head back south, and a cocktail is likely in order. Stop into V Wine Lounge and take a photo with the umbrella, and have a nice glass of wine or try Hunters and take a photo with their never-ending mural, and pull up a seat while I spill some tea, and tell you about the chair.

The Tea on Forever Marilyn

Forever Marilyn, created by Seward Johnson, is a representation of one of the most famous images of Monroe, taken from Billy Wilder’s film The Seven Year Itch. She was here for a few years, but left in 2014, and now she’s back! However, there’s quite a bit of furor over her location.

The Palm Springs Art Museum is unhappy that when visitors leave their museum they’ve got a direct eyeshot of her…up-skirt. There is a faction in Palm Springs that is talking #metoo, Some don’t consider it art, and others want it moved where it’s supposed to be, in the park next to Museum Way that’s still being built. There is a pedestal where she is supposed to go, and someone, I have no idea who, put an empty chair on the pedestal.

For sure, she’s coming, But, in the meantime, sit in the chair and Instagram away.

Forever Marilyn and the Chair

Don’t want to overload ya’ll (why, yes, I do have some southern roots) with Insta-ops, so we’ll get to those when you come back. And, you know, you will. #ILOVEPS

As always, please shop and stay at locally-owned businesses. And if you go to any of our hotels or enjoy our recommendations, please be sure to tag us with your photos on IG, or @palmspringspreferredsmallhotels (yeah, it’s a lot to type, but we appreciate it!)

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Agua Caliente Cultural Museum Now Open In Downtown Palm Springs

The entrance to the Agua Caliente Cultural Museum in Palm Springs, California

For the Agua Caliente Band of Cahuilla Indians, the opening of the Agua Caliente Cultural Museum in the heart of Palm Springs is a 30-year dream realized. 

The contents of the museum were revealed to the community during its grand opening on Nov. 4. During the dedication, Tribal Chairman Reid D. Milanovich said that every federally-recognized tribe in the United States “has a distinct culture that includes traditions, language, historical clothing, and housing styles, as well as historical food and medicine preparations. We want to share our culture with visitors through our authentic voice. This is our story, in our voice. We are here today just like we have been since time immemorial.”

A first look at the Agua Caliente Gathering Plaza 

The Oasis Path at the Agua Caliente Cultural Museum in Palm Springs, California, is illuminated at night

The Oasis Trail at night. Photo by Kathy Condon

When the fences came down around the finished complex, the 10,000-square-foot Agua Caliente Museum and the Agua Caliente Gathering Plaza were revealed. Outdoor spaces featuring desert native plants surround both, so you can sit and enjoy the serenity and beauty of the area at no cost. The Oasis Trail also winds through the plaza and is an interactive cultural experience in miniature of the nearby Indian Canyons and Tahquitz Canyon trails. The recreated rock formations add to the authenticity of the pathway.

JCJ Architecture out of Phoenix designed the project, and their guiding principles for the space were based on the tribe’s values and commitment to their story.

Entering the Agua Caliente Cultural Museum

A thatched hut replica inside the Agua Caliente Cultural Museum in Palm Springs, California

The museum’s exhibition space is filled with artifacts. Photo by Kathy Condon

The Agua Caliente Cultural Museum’s design is rooted in a tradition reminiscent of basket weaving, pottery, and elements of the Agua Caliente Indian Reservation. Inside the building, the designs incorporated into the floors, lights, and decor all have been meticulously selected to represent aspects of the Agua Caliente culture in five separate exhibition areas.

The journey through the building begins with a film. You are seated in a longhouse-style theatre with 360-degree viewing. The 12-minute film tells the story of the tribe’s creation.

When you exit the theatre, the building’s curved pathway leads to a permanent exhibition displaying the tribe’s history in Coachella Valley. Historical photographs line the wall, interspersed with timelines. Glass cases in the center of the room reveal the beauty of the collection of well-preserved baskets used by ancestors to gather berries and store and prepare food. The artistry involved will cause you to stop and observe the intricate details of the perfectly-shaped baskets.

The beaded clothing of both men and women is displayed with an explanation of the ceremonial occasions on which they were used. In a nearby area, cases show the artifacts discovered when digging began for the museum’s construction. The objects found revealed the Agua Caliente tribes were in Coachella Valley even earlier than was previously thought: 5,000 to approximately 8,000 years ago.

Photos offer a look at the past

A well-designed and perfectly lit gallery is a beautiful way to observe incredible photos of the tribe. Both current and historically valuable photos have captured ceremonies, individuals, and scenes that illustrate the tribe’s life.  Plan to spend some time here. The more you look at the photos, the more you notice. The museum is the perfect place to look deeper into the Agua Caliente culture, and there are knowledgeable people on hand ready to help you learn.

Stopping by the museum store 

A woman holds a piece of pottery inside the gift shop at the Agua Caliente Cultural Museum

One-of-a-kind treasures await in the museum gift shop. Photo by Kathy Condon

When you wander into the store, you will immediately observe that this is not an ordinary museum gift shop. There are no duplicate gadgets or kitschy items. A glass case holds handmade jewelry and one-of-a-kind rings, earrings, and bracelets are beautifully displayed.

The entire space has been carefully curated with art made by Indigenous people from throughout the United States. Weavings and paintings adorn the walls, while exquisite pottery is waiting to find a place in your home. You can visit the museum store without paying an admission fee.

Everything else you need to know about the Agua Caliente Cultural Museum

Admission to the museum is $10 for adults; $5 for seniors 65+, children 6+, and college students with ID; and free for kids under 6, military members and veterans, locals with government ID, and Native Americans with ID.

Educational opportunities are abundant, and signing up for the museum’s newsletter lets you keep tabs on lectures and classes offered during your stay. Presently, there are scheduled lectures about the artifacts found when digging the project; the design of the building; and basketry. 

If you have a car, there is plenty of free parking. The entire area is handicap accessible.

This incredible asset is within walking distance of many of our Palm Springs Preferred Small Hotels, and could be combined with a visit to the luxurious Spa at Séc-he. When you come to Palm Springs, plan to take a couple of hours to learn about the Agua Caliente Band of Cahuilla Indians, the first settlers of Palm Springs.

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Downtown Palm Springs: Vibrant & Flourishing

Downtown Palm Springs (roughly defined as from the north end of Alejo Rd. and south to Ramon Rd.) offers visitors a vibrant combination of the old and the new. The sidewalks are wide, the mid-century and Spanish-style storefronts are charming, and the lovely palm trees sway in soft breezes. This is all enhanced by the weather, which is beautiful, no matter what time of year you visit.

Mary Jo Ginther, Director of the Palm Springs Bureau of Tourism, says, “The City’s goal, along with the business owners and residents, is to retain the character and ambiance of Palm Springs for visitors and locals alike, while providing new development to keep everything up to date. We are all very proud of the way our City has developed over the last 20 years.”

So much has happened in the last two decades. The old-fashioned plaza mall, which had been closed for 15 years, has been revitalized and the area is highlighted by outstanding restaurants and enticing shopping.

A variety of small boutique hotels in the downtown area offer visitors enchanting options for personalized accommodations in lushly landscaped settings. Many of these hotels were favorite getaways for the rat pack during Hollywood’s heyday in Palm Springs and they still exude the charm of that magical era. Some of these beautifully designed retreats, all members of the Palm Springs Preferred Small Hotels association, include Casa Cody Country Inn, Andalusian Court, Ingleside Inn, Holiday House, La Serena Villas, La Maison, and Alcazar Palm Springs.. Several of these hotels include wonderful restaurants such as The Pantry at Holiday House, Melvyn’s at the Ingleside Inn, Acuzar at La Serena Villas, and Birba and Cheekys at Alcazar.

Plans for future expansion and renovation of the downtown area are underway. Discussions include renovating the historic Town and Country Center to much of its original mid-century modern condition. These plans are important because this area connects Palm Canyon Drive to Indian Canyon Drive, which is becoming two-way instead of one-way. This will improve the area for pedestrian traffic.

The city is expanding eastward toward the airport. The Agua Caliente Band of Cahuilla Indians, which has been very involved in the economic development of Palm Springs, is developing an exciting new campus with a cultural museum, bath house and spa, and an expanded casino. Construction is also just starting for a spacious 10,000-seat arena.

The Tahquitz Corridor going from downtown to the airport has been preserved. For example, an historical building designed by celebrated architect Hugh Kaptur has been restored to its original mid-century modern design rather than replaced by a high rise that had been contemplated by some developers. The once almost-empty building is now flourishing with retailers, a coffee bar, a wine bar, and offices.

Since the areas being developed are owned by both the city and the Agua Caliente tribe (in a checkerboard pattern), some plots of land are controlled by the city and some by the tribe, but they have worked well together over the years to develop the area. There is also a very healthy preservationist community that is involved in many of these plans and residents are active in decision-making with great value placed on buildings that are unique to the mid-century heritage of Palm Springs. These renovations have brought back visitors who value the historical significance of the area.

Much credit for development goes to the businesses putting their resources back into the city. Ten years ago, there was no real food scene in Palm Springs and now many wonderful restaurants are thriving. Tours have also exploded, with biking tours, mid-century modern tours, hiking tours, and celebrity bus tours. There is even a foodie’s Desert Tasty Tour and the Palm Springs Historical Society has tours every Saturday morning with a focus on the town’s unique history.

Downtown Palm Springs is perfect for walkers. You can walk from many of the small boutique hotels and explore the shops, restaurants, and architecture. People are friendly and the town is safe. The vibe is relaxing with something for everyone.

The city’s slogan — “Like No Place Else” — is so true. And the city’s planners intend to maintain and continue to develop its special character.

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Independent Films. Independent Stays.

Alcazar’s salt water purified pool in the daytime

If you love the creative style of independent filmmakers, then staying at a small independently-owned hotel will fit right in with your ethos.  Every hotel is beautifully curated for an extraordinary experience. And if you’re heading to the 30th Palm Springs International Film Festival in January, at least two of our member small hotels are offering festival rates including Alcazar Palm Springs and Los Arboles Hotel.

Alcazar Palm Springs offers a great location that is close to both downtown and the arts district. Two fabulous restaurants, Cheeky’s and Birba are right on site.  Alcazar’s contemporary style has a distinctly hip European vibe.  It boasts imported Italian linens, flat screen TV’s, fireplaces, poolside and private patios, salt water purified pool, cooling misters, Jacuzzi and a beautiful garden courtyard in which to lounge. Festival Rate Code: PSFF

The Courtyard at Alcazar Palm Springs
The Courtyard at Alcazar Palm Springs

Charming and historic, href=”https://www.palmspringspreferredsmallhotels.com/stay/los-arboles-hotel”>Los Arboles Hotel is home to the iconic, El Mirasol Mexican Restaurant and bar.  Family owned and operated, it features 21 well-appointed rooms, a heated pool, Jacuzzi, room service and is located walking distance from shopping, dining, and nightlife.  This is one of those places where delighted guests return year after year. Festival Rate Code: PSFF19 for 10% off.

The patio at Los Arboles Restaurant and Bar, Palm Springs

The patio at Los Arboles Restaurant and Bar, Palm Springs

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Exploring Palm Springs Art Treasures

Not only does Palm Springs beckon one to come to visit for its countless sunshine days, but there is also a new reason to plan your vacation to this increasingly hip town. At least once a week, contemporary public art is being unveiled.

Palm Springs is quiet and has crispness in the air as one ventures out to get a cup of coffee on Palm Canyon at our downtown Starbucks. Clamoring for your attention is the PS I Love Letters, with its brilliant red color glistens in the filtered sunlight through the palm trees. It’s the perfect place to take an Instagramable photo.

Nona Watson, CEO of Palm Springs Chamber of Commerce, conceived the artwork. She enlisted the design talents of Maru Palmersheim, and Palm Spring Canyon Print and Grit Development provided the space.

(This particular morning, a family of three was standing near the sign. The little girl was having fun frolicking around the sign, so we thought she would be the perfect model. The mother later sent us an email requesting a copy of the photo. She is pianist Jeewon Park.)

Unity, a mural with Inaugural Poet Amanda Gorman’s portrait, graces one of the “art pit” walls at the corner of Belardo Road and Museum Way.  This temporary art installation will be there through December 2021.

MisterAlex, a Los Angeles-based artist, depicted Amanda surrounded by butterflies. “During my research of Amanda, I discovered she overcame a speech impediment. In addition, during her young life, she dedicated her many hours of hard work to bring people together; thus, I chose Unity for the theme.”

The Fault Line Meditation

Curator and artist, Jevpic considers himself a fortunate man. During the pandemic, he received his largest commission ever. While digging in the “art pit” to create this art installation, many local people supported him. They picked up shovels and helped him develop his vision, which looks entirely different during the day than it does at night.

In Jevpic words, “The path in the shape of the San Andres Fault is a metaphor for the faults we encounter in our life. Faults have existed before us and will be after us. Just learn, grow and move on.”

Guadalajara Artist Gonzalo Lebrija‘s temporary creation, History of Suspended, is directly in front of the Palm Springs Art Museum. The Palm Springs Art Commission worked with the museum to prepare the space and erect the art installation referred to as “A Moment for the Impossible.”

Lebrija wants to encourage thought “suspension of the passage of time – focusing on the precise moment of stillness and impact. This installation encourages one to walk around and even visit at different times of the day. The reflection in the pool also calls one to reflect on the time and space around them.

MIDABI, a Palm Springs artist who has his art in front of the Desert Center Art Center, now came up with another relevant sign. WOW on Indian Canyon Drive, near Andreas, cannot help but make you smile.  When is the last time you saw art that says, “Wow?”

His metal, esoteric sculptures are created using his thought process:  a. Always be a student b. Have a heart of a child and c. Remember you are a human being first and foremost before any other identity.

Popsicles is a temporary art installation near Townie Bagels on Sunny Dunes by Salina, California artist John Cerney. John is known as the “cutout artist” for his larger-than-life creations along California and Midwest highways. This a great place to capture selfies for your social media.

John started as a portrait artist, then began drawing. He noticed barren walls and old barns with expansive walls and convinced owners murals would enhance their spaces. The next step was designing a way for more people to see his figures. At first, he made the life size, but they realized they were not big enough for people to see as they whizzed by on the highways. Thus, these plywood cutouts are now bigger than life.

Besides a vibrate art scene, retail shops are thriving, and new restaurants are popping up everywhere. If you haven’t been to Palm Springs, you are sure to see lots of changes, including constructing the 1.5 acres of new City Park being built steps away from the Palm Springs Art Museum.

So find your stay, maybe even take advantage of a summer special and make your reservation today.

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