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Palm Springs Historical Society: A Journey Through Time

Explore Palm Springs' captivating past through exhibits, tours, and archives at the Palm Springs Historical Society.

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Discover the rich history of Palm Springs at the Palm Springs Historical Society. Explore exhibits housed in the city's oldest buildings, showcasing artifacts, photographs, and stories of pioneers and celebrities who shaped this desert oasis.

A brief summary to Palm Springs Historical Society

  • Monday 10 am-4 pm
  • Wednesday 10 am-4 pm
  • Thursday 10 am-4 pm
  • Friday 10 am-4 pm
  • Saturday 10 am-4 pm
  • Sunday 10 am-4 pm

Local tips

  • Visit during the mid-September to mid-April season to ensure all museums and tours are open.
  • Check the Palm Springs Historical Society website for tour schedules and special events.
  • Take a walking or bike tour to discover hidden gems and celebrity homes in Palm Springs' historic neighborhoods.
  • Explore the Welwood Murray Memorial Library for in-depth research on Palm Springs' history and architecture.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    The Palm Springs Historical Society is located downtown on South Palm Canyon Drive. From most downtown hotels, it's easily accessible by foot. Head south on Palm Canyon Drive. The Historical Society will be on your left-hand side, a short walk from the heart of downtown. Admission to the museums is free.

  • Public Transport

    SunLine, the local bus service, has several routes that service downtown Palm Springs. Check the SunLine website for the most up-to-date routes and schedules. A single ride fare is $1. From the nearest bus stop, walk south on Palm Canyon Drive to reach the Historical Society.

  • Taxi/Ride-Share

    Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are readily available in Palm Springs. Request a ride to 221 S Palm Canyon Drive. The fare from most downtown locations will be approximately $7-$12.

  • Driving

    From Highway 111, head north or south onto Palm Canyon Drive. The Palm Springs Historical Society is located at 221 S Palm Canyon Drive. Free parking is available for up to four hours in the downtown parking garages, accessible from Palm Canyon Drive at Amado Road and on North Museum Drive. Metered street parking is also available. Be aware of time limits.

Unlock the Best of Palm Springs Historical Society

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Discover more about Palm Springs Historical Society

The Palm Springs Historical Society, established in 1955, is dedicated to preserving and sharing the vibrant history of Palm Springs. The society operates from two of the city's oldest buildings: the McCallum Adobe, built in 1884, and the Cornelia White House, constructed in 1893. The McCallum Adobe, the oldest surviving structure in Palm Springs, offers a glimpse into the life of John Guthrie McCallum, the town's first permanent white settler, and his efforts to bring water to the desert. Inside, rotating and permanent exhibits display historical artifacts, photographs, and documents that narrate the evolution of Palm Springs from a small desert community to a renowned resort destination. The Cornelia White House, made from recycled railroad ties, showcases early desert living with staged rooms reflecting the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Visitors can experience the daily life of Palm Springs' pioneers and learn about Cornelia Butler White, a key figure in the town's development and founder of the Desert Museum. In addition to the museums, the Palm Springs Historical Society offers walking and bike tours that explore the city's historic neighborhoods, architecture, and celebrity homes. These tours provide an engaging and informative way to delve deeper into the stories and landmarks that have shaped Palm Springs. The Welwood Murray Memorial Library serves as the society's research center, housing archives and resources for those seeking to further explore the history of Palm Springs. The Palm Springs Historical Society is a must-visit for anyone interested in the captivating past of this desert city. With its museums, tours, and research center, the society offers a comprehensive and engaging experience for history enthusiasts of all ages.

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