The world's densest collection of mid-century modern architecture is best wandered slowly. Pick up a self-guided tour map and explore the murals, galleries, and landmark houses at your own pace, no group required.
Discover Palm Springs at Your Own Pace
Palm Springs is a city best explored slowly: one neighborhood, one mural, and one mid-century masterpiece at a time. If you love uncovering hidden corners without the rush of a group, these self-guided tours in Palm Springs let you explore freely and soak in the desert's creative energy.
Here's your curated guide to the best self-guided walking and driving tours in Palm Springs, all easily accessible from Gloria Palm Springs.
1. Mid-Century Modern Architecture Tour
Palm Springs is world-famous for its mid-century modern architecture: clean lines, desert glass, and sunlit symmetry. Create your own Palm Springs self-guided architecture tour using the free Modernism Week app or by exploring the Twin Palms and Vista Las Palmas neighborhoods.
Must-see stops:
Elvis Honeymoon Hideaway
Frey House II (viewpoint from Museum Trail)
Kaufmann Desert House
The Parker Palm Springs (interiors by Jonathan Adler)
Tip: Early morning or sunset hours offer the best lighting for photos, and cooler desert air.
2. Palm Springs Art & Mural Walk
For art lovers, Palm Springs is an open-air gallery filled with public murals and sculptures that celebrate desert creativity. Start at the Palm Springs Art Museum, then walk toward Tahquitz Canyon Way for a colorful, self-guided art route.
Don't miss:
“Rainmaker” fountain (Museum Way)
“Isabelle” mural by Sofia Enriquez
Palm Springs Art Museum Sculpture Garden
Backstreet Art District (visits by appointment)
3. Historic Palm Springs Walking Tour
Take a step back in time through Old Las Palmas and The Movie Colony, neighborhoods once home to Hollywood legends. Use the Palm Springs Historical Society app or map to find more than 40 heritage sites on your self-guided history tour.
Highlights:
Frank Sinatra's Twin Palms Estate
Marilyn Monroe's former home
The Plaza Theatre (1936)
O'Donnell House (one of the city's oldest mansions)
Each stop tells a story from Palm Springs' “Old Hollywood in the Desert” era.
4. Self-Drive Day Tours Around the Desert
If you prefer exploring by car, try a self-guided driving tour across the Coachella Valley's most scenic landmarks. Start from Gloria Palm Springs and plan a day filled with natural beauty and local flavor.
Suggested route:
Indian Canyons: short hikes and palm groves
Windmill Farm: great photo stop!
Joshua Tree National Park: one-hour drive through breathtaking desert landscapes
5. Desert X Art Installations (Seasonal)
Every two years, the Coachella Valley becomes a massive outdoor art experience through Desert X, an international exhibition that merges art, nature, and social themes. Grab the map from the official website, download the app, and explore installations across Palm Springs, Rancho Mirage, and Desert Hot Springs.
Each work transforms the desert into a living canvas, a perfect self-guided art tour for curious travelers.
Because in Palm Springs, every corner tells a story. You just have to follow the map.