Welcome to the Palm Springs Architecture Tour
Soak up some sun with this Palm Springs Architecture Self-guided Audio Tour, where movie stars and other big-time celebs have flocked for almost a hundred years to get away from it all. Visit architectural marvels left behind by these eccentric stars, like the opulent Liberace House. Stop outside the gates of Frank Sinatra’s old estate and hear some wild tales about Ol’ Blue Eyes’ time in Palm Springs. And so much more! Plus, this driving tour of Palm Springs will take you to the serene Thousand Palms Oasis Preserve, a desert gem rich in natural beauty.
About the Tour
You’ll begin your Palm Springs Architecture Tour at the Palm Springs Visitor Center. From there, you’ll drive to the architectural wonder of the Kaufmann House, a pinnacle of mid-century modern design. That’s then followed by the striking Liberace House, a testament to the extravagant lifestyle of the legendary entertainer.
As you keep driving, you’ll dig into the lives of the movie stars of yesteryear and find out why so many came to Palm Springs in the first place. Then you’ll be dazzled by the quirky and vibrant Robolights installation, a must-see for anyone in the area.
Whose houses will you see on your drive? The list isn’t a short one! This tour features homes once occupied by:
- Elvis Presley
- Magda Gabore
- Debbie Reynolds
- Marilyn Monroe
- Liberace
- Bette Davis
- Sammy Davis Jr.
- Frank Sinatra
- and more!
Your tour then takes you past the legendary Frank Sinatra’s Residence, where you can soak in the sounds of the Rat Pack era. Next, visit the Walk of Stars, celebrating the icons who have shaped Palm Springs’ legacy.
After that, you’ll drive through the Coachella Valley and hear the fascinating true story behind the Coachella Music Festival. Then you’ll have the chance to see Frank Sinatra’s final resting place and solve one of the mysteries of his burial. The journey culminates at the Thousand Palms Oasis Preserve, where you can explore lush green trails hidden in the heart of the harsh desert.
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Nearby Tours
Driving
Each Tour 35+
Each tour 3-4 Hours
Walking
16+
1 - 2 Hours
Walking
84
2 - 3 Hours
Driving
60+
3 - 4 Hours
Driving
19
1 - 2 Hours
Palm Springs Map
Where To Start?
We recommend Starting From: Palm Springs Visitor Center, 2901 N Palm Canyon Dr, Palm Springs, CA 92262
How Does It Work?
- Once you book a tour, you’ll get a text/email with instructions.
- Download the app (while in good wifi/signal) and use your unique password to access your tours. If multiple versions or entry points are available for your tour, be sure to download all the audio guides.
- Audio Setup: Connect your phone to the car stereo via Bluetooth, USB, or Aux, and bring headphones on walking tours. CarPlay and Android Auto are currently not supported; we’re working toward a solution with Apple.
- To begin touring, go to the starting point and launch the app.
- The audio starts automatically once you reach the starting point. Stick to the tour route and speed limit for the best experience.
- Please note that no one will meet you at the starting point.
Audio Story Highlights
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Kaufmann House
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Liberace House
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Movie Stars of Yesteryear
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The Movie Colony
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Robolights
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Frank Sinatra
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The Rat Pack in Palm Springs
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Walk of Stars
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The Palm Trees of Palm Springs
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Coachella Valley
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Coachella Music Festival
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Palm Springs Airport
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Bob Hope
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Frank Sinatra’s Tomb
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Golfing in the Desert
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Desert Life
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The San Andreas Fault
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Leaving Palm Springs
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Desert Geology
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Willis Palm Trail
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Superblooms
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Pushwalla Palms Trail
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Thousand Palms Oasis Preserve
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Confederate Burial Trench
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Jones Field
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Tennessee State Memorial
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Julius Raith Monument
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We Meet in Heaven
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Johnston Meets His End
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Tennessee State Memorial
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Julius Raith Monument
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We Meet in Heaven
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Johnston Meets His End
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Texas State Monument
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Fall of the Hornet's Nest
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Grant's Last Stand
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Shiloh Indian Mounds
Preview The Tour
Tour FAQs
Palm Springs is special for its unique desert oasis setting, with stunning mountain backdrops, warm weather, mid-century modern architecture, and a relaxed, resort-like atmosphere.
Palm Springs gained fame in the mid-20th century when it became a glamorous escape for Hollywood celebrities, offering them privacy, luxury, and a desert retreat.
People visit Palm Springs for its beautiful landscapes, outdoor activities, golfing, shopping, dining, spa resorts, and the chance to experience the nostalgia of the mid-century modern era.
Palm Springs is a big deal due to its historical significance, celebrity culture, architectural heritage, and its role as a premier vacation destination in Southern California.
Palm Springs style is often associated with mid-century modern design, characterized by clean lines, sleek furnishings, and a focus on blending indoor and outdoor living spaces.
Yes, Palm Springs is considered a nice city known for its hospitality, stunning desert surroundings, and a wide range of leisure activities.
While Palm Springs offers a range of accommodations and dining options, it can be relatively expensive compared to some other destinations, especially during the peak tourist season.
The best time to visit Palm Springs is typically in the fall, winter, or early spring when the weather is pleasant and not extremely hot. Avoiding the scorching summer months is recommended.
A weekend or 2-3 days are often sufficient to explore the main attractions of Palm Springs, but you can easily spend more time enjoying the city’s offerings, especially if you want a more relaxed pace.
Explore 200+ Tours
Inclusions and Exclusions
App on your phone: A link to download the Action Tour Guide App and Password for your tours.
Easy to use: Stories play automatically via GPS, hands‑free. Assistance available all day via call, chat, or email.
Flexible schedule: Use any day, any time. Tours are valid forever.
Interactive audio stories: Experience local history and culture through clear, concise narratives from experienced narrators.
At your own pace: No group. Take breaks for photos, snacks, hikes. Go at your own pace.
Offline use: No cell signal or wifi required. Offline GPS Map & route. Stop-to-stop direction.
Don’t miss a thing: Enjoy a full itinerary, travel tips, narrated videos, text guides, and hidden gems.
Transportation, parking fees, food, and drinks.
Entry tickets or reservations for any attractions along the route.
Car Rental: Please arrange a rental car at the closest airport or train station.
