Dozen Distinctive Destinations
Palm Springs, CA
Year Listed: 2006
The Grace Miller House was restored by current owner Catherine Meyler. Architect: Richard Neutra 1937.
Credit: Michael Stern
Sheltered by three mountain ranges, Palm Springs, Calif., has never taken its enviable geography for granted. Known for its warm, dry climate, this area of eight adjacent cities was first home to the Aqua Caliente Band of Cahuilla Indians, who established their village around the region’s natural hot mineral springs. In 1884, a San Francisco judge became the first non-Indian to settle here, and his adobe, the oldest remaining building in Palm Springs, is today open to visitors and features an extensive collection of photographs, paintings, clothing, tools and Indian ware from the earliest days.
The home is located at The Village Green Heritage Center, which stands in a lovely park-like setting amid the hotels, shops and restaurants of legendary Palm Canyon Drive. Because of its proximity to Los Angeles, Palm Springs was quickly adopted by a "Who’s Who" of Hollywood celebrities, who fueled the city's postwar growth and an explosion of highly original buildings designed in what became known as the Palm Springs Modern style. These buildings - some of them designed by famous visiting architects such as Richard Neutra, and others produced by immensely talented local architects - reflect the diversity of approaches to Modern design. Miraculously, many of these buildings have survived, have been restored, and are accessible to visitors. From golfing and shopping to hiking or basking in the glorious desert sunshine, Palm Springs offers something for everyone. Desert attractions include outdoor tours, museums, art galleries, wildlife and botanical parks or hot-air balloon rides as well as 15-mile long Palm Canyon, one of the most breathtaking spots in Western North America. Its indigenous flora and fauna provide magnificent contrasts to the stark, rocky gorges and barren desert lands beyond.
Now it's your turn! Share your experiences or impressions of this Distinctive Destination: Unique restaurants, sights, family-friendly activities, hang outs, art galleries... tell visitors what they shouldn't miss!
Submitted by derry at: May 29, 2009
palm springs go