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Palm Springs Art Museum: A Desert Oasis of Art and Culture

Explore modern & contemporary art, architecture, and Native American culture at the Palm Springs Art Museum, a cultural hub in the Coachella Valley.

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The Palm Springs Art Museum stands as a cultural beacon in the Coachella Valley, showcasing a diverse collection of modern and contemporary art, Native American artifacts, and significant architectural designs. Founded in 1938, the museum has grown into a leading arts destination, reflecting Palm Springs' rich artistic and architectural heritage.

A brief summary to Palm Springs Art Museum

  • Thursday 12 pm-8 pm
  • Friday 10 am-5 pm
  • Saturday 10 am-5 pm
  • Sunday 10 am-5 pm

Local tips

  • Visit on Thursday evenings for free admission, courtesy of the City of Palm Springs.
  • Take a docent-led tour to learn about the museum's permanent collection and special exhibitions.
  • Explore the outdoor sculpture gardens and the Architecture and Design Center for a broader experience.
  • Check the Annenberg Theater's schedule for upcoming performances and events.
  • Enjoy a meal or snack at the Muse Café or Persimmon Bistro & Wine Bar during your visit.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From downtown Palm Springs, the museum is easily accessible on foot. From the intersection of Palm Canyon Drive and Tahquitz Canyon Way, walk north on Palm Canyon Drive. Turn right onto Museum Drive. The museum will be on your left. The walk is approximately 5-10 minutes. No cost involved.

  • Public Transport

    SunLine Transit Agency provides bus service throughout Palm Springs. Several bus routes stop near the museum. Check the SunLine website or app for the most up-to-date schedules and routes. A single ride fare is typically around $1. From Palm Springs International Airport, take SunLine Route 14 to the Palm Springs Downtown Transit Center. From there, transfer to Route 1 and exit at the Palm Canyon at Museum Drive stop. The museum will be across the street.

  • Taxi/Ride-share

    Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are readily available in Palm Springs. A taxi or ride-share from Palm Springs International Airport to the museum will cost approximately $15-25, depending on traffic and demand. Simply provide the driver with the museum's address: 101 N Museum Dr, Palm Springs, CA 92262.

  • Driving

    If driving, take CA-111 (Palm Canyon Drive) to Museum Drive. Turn onto Museum Drive. The museum will be on your left. Free parking is available in the Downtown Project Parking Garage, accessible from Museum Drive. Street parking is also available, but may be limited. There is a four-hour time limit in the parking garage.

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Discover more about Palm Springs Art Museum

The Palm Springs Art Museum, established in 1938, has evolved from a natural history institution into a premier visual and performing arts hub. The museum's main building, designed by modernist architect E. Stewart Williams in 1974, is an architectural landmark itself, seamlessly blending with the desert landscape. The museum boasts a diverse permanent collection featuring modern and contemporary art, including paintings, sculptures, photography, and glass pieces. Highlights include works by renowned artists such as Pablo Picasso, Marc Chagall, Andy Warhol and Ansel Adams. The museum also holds significant collections of Native American and Western art, showcasing the cultural heritage of the region. In addition to its main building, the Palm Springs Art Museum includes the Architecture and Design Center, Edwards Harris Pavilion, which focuses on architecture, design, and the built environment, particularly the region's modernist legacy. The museum also owns Frey House II, a historically significant residence designed by architect Albert Frey, offering a glimpse into modernist minimalism. The Annenberg Theater, a 433-seat venue within the museum, hosts a variety of performances, including Broadway shows, cabaret, jazz, classical music, opera, dance, and lectures. The museum also offers art classes and workshops for adults and children, ensuring memorable interactions through educational and cultural opportunities. Visitors can explore the museum's exhibitions, take guided tours, relax in the outdoor sculpture gardens, and shop for unique gifts at the Museum Store. The Persimmon Bistro & Wine Bar offers American and Continental cuisine.

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