Walking Palm Springs "Twin Palms" Private Tour
Active
2h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Manual confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
For 2 hours, enjoy a private, guided stroll through the charming and historic "Twin Palms Estates" residential neighborhood in Palm Springs, California and its jewel-like array of 1950s mid-century modern home designs - many featuring original, iconic "butterfly-style" rooflines. You'll hear how this groundbreaking development was a first as well as insight about architect William Krisel's extraordinary vision.
Plus, we'll see former residences of several famous personalities, including Debbie Reynolds and Ray Bradbury.
Like the idea of a private stroll through a lushly landscaped neighborhood under towering palms while discovering an inspiring collection of noted Palm Springs home designs? This tour is for you.
IMPORTANT:
Restrooms are not available before or during the tour.
Bring bottled water if desired.
Tour is not of Frank Sinatra's former residence named "Twin Palms."
Palm Springs license #OC-005497-2024
Member, P.S. Historical Society
Member, P.S. Preservation Foundation
Available options
Walking Palm Springs "Twin Palms" Private Tour
What's included
Guided tour
Detailed itinerary
1
We'll enter the Twin Palms Estates historic neighborhood near a street that was recently renamed in honor of the famous architect responsible for much of its residential and landscape design - William Krisel.
2
We'll see the former home of Hollywood stars Debbie Reynolds and husband Eddie Fisher as we hear how their high-profile marriage began to unravel at this address.
3
From this quiet, off-the-beaten-path cul-de-sac, we'll see a selection of pristinely preserved original 1950s homes featuring their original or restored mid-century design elements.
4
We'll walk by the former home of celebrity author Ray Bradbury and hear about his life in Palm Springs.
5
We'll stroll the charming Twin Palms neighborhood, including along the whimsically named Aquanetta Drive.
6
Along Navajo Dr., we'll compare and contrast iconic home designs from the 1950s with contemporary remakes that make this streetscape so varied.
7
On this street, we'll jump ahead to the 1960s and see famous home designs that have come to epitomize the glamour of that decade with facades untouched.
What's not included
Home interiors are not part of this tour.
Restrooms are not available during this tour.
Gratuities
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Reviews breakdown
Viator
5.0
1 reviews
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Tripadvisor
5.0
14 reviews
5★
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Important information
Service animals allowed
Public transportation options are available nearby
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible
Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
Wheelchair accessible
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Total distance walked is about 1 mile on flat pavement.
Meeting point
Meet on E. Twin Palms Dr. at the intersection with S. Navajo Dr. Look for two matching “Twin Palms Estates” signs on each corner. There is plenty of free on-street parking at this location. Douglas Kline, your guide, will meet you at this intersection.
About Palm Springs
Palm Springs is a desert resort city in Southern California known for its hot springs, stylish hotels, golf courses, and spas. It's a popular destination for outdoor activities, mid-century modern architecture, and a vibrant LGBTQ+ community.
Top Attractions
Palm Springs Aerial Tramway
A scenic tram ride from the desert floor to the mountaintops, offering stunning views and access to hiking trails.
Nature/Adventure
2-3 hours
Moderate
Palm Springs Art Museum
A premier destination for modern and contemporary art, architecture, and design, housed in a striking mid-century modern building.
Museum/Art
1-2 hours
Moderate
Joshua Tree National Park
A unique desert landscape with iconic Joshua trees, rock formations, and stargazing opportunities.
Nature/Adventure
Full day
Free entry for some areas, moderate for others
Palm Springs Walk of Stars
A tribute to celebrities who have made significant contributions to the entertainment industry, with stars embedded in the sidewalks of downtown Palm Springs.
Historical/Cultural
30 minutes to 1 hour
Free
Must-Try Local Dishes
In-N-Out Burger
A California classic, known for its fresh, high-quality burgers and fries.
Fast Food
Vegetarian options available
Chef's Table at The Parker
A fine dining experience featuring seasonal, locally sourced ingredients and innovative dishes.
Dinner
Vegetarian and vegan options available
Palm Springs Caesar Salad
A local twist on the classic Caesar salad, often featuring fresh greens, avocado, and a unique dressing.
Lunch/Dinner
Vegetarian
Popular Activities
Hiking
Rock climbing
Mountain biking
Spa treatments
Golfing
Poolside lounging
Art museum visits
Architectural tours
Best Time to Visit
October to April
This is the most popular time to visit with pleasant temperatures and outdoor activities in full swing.
15°C to 30°C
60°F to 85°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: English
- Widely spoken: Spanish
- English: Widely spoken
Currency
US Dollar (USD)
Time Zone
Pacific Time Zone (PT, UTC-8)
Electricity
120VV, 60HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
Palm Springs is generally safe, but standard precautions should be taken to ensure a secure visit.
Important Precautions:
- • Keep valuables secure
- • Be cautious in isolated areas at night
- • Use reputable tour operators
Getting there
By air
- Palm Springs International Airport • 3 miles from city center
By train
Palm Springs Station
By bus
Palm Springs Transit Center
Getting around
Public transport
Affordable and convenient for getting around, but schedules may be limited.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Uber, Lyft
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Downtown Palm Springs
The Historic District
South Palm Springs
Day trips
Joshua Tree National Park
35 miles • Full day
A unique desert landscape with iconic Joshua trees, rock formations, and stargazing opportunities.
Salton Sea
45 miles • Half day
A unique and somewhat eerie destination known for its shrinking lake and diverse birdlife.
Cathedral City
10 miles • Half day
A vibrant city known for its murals, festivals, and diverse dining options.
Festivals
Palm Springs International Film Festival • January
Palm Springs Pride • November
Palm Springs VillageFest • Thursday evenings year-round
Pro tips
- Visit the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway for stunning views and hiking opportunities
- Explore the mid-century modern architecture with a guided tour
- Enjoy the vibrant nightlife and LGBTQ+ friendly atmosphere
- Take advantage of the numerous golf courses and spas
- Visit nearby Joshua Tree National Park for a unique desert experience
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
