About

As the oldest architectural tour in Palm Springs, The Modern Tour offers an exceptional journey through Palm Springs' rich history and its astonishing collection of mid-century modern architecture and design. Imagine a pathway through time where past eras' elegance meets modern living's sophistication.

It's an immersive experience where you'll step inside private residential properties, each showcasing spectacular mid-century modern homes. These homes are stories of design and innovation, narrated through their unique architectural features.

At the helm of this journey is Michael Stern, the owner of The Modern Tour and an esteemed author known for his publication "Julius Shulman: Palm Springs." Stern's expertise and passion for Palm Springs' architectural heritage turn this tour into a captivating and educational experience, offering insights that connect you deeply with the city's architectural heart.

The Modern Tour proudly stands as the official tour of the Palm Springs Art Museum Architecture and Design Center. This partnership underscores the tour's commitment to celebrating and preserving the rich architectural history of Palm Springs. A portion of all tour fees is dedicated to supporting the mission of the Architecture + Design Center, with over $200,000 contributed to date.

The 2.5-hour tour is a personalized adventure tailored to your preferences. Whether you are an individual enthusiast, a group of friends, or a corporate team, the tour accommodates 2 to 40 guests, ensuring an intimate experience for each participant.

Fun Facts & Cool Features

One of the most remarkable aspects of The Modern Tour is the opportunity to step inside some of Palm Springs' spectacular private residences. This access provides an intimate look at the luxurious, innovative designs that characterize the city's famous mid-century modern homes.

A favorite stop on the tour is the Frey House II. Here, guests may sit on the furniture, engage in conversations, and immerse themselves in the architectural splendor of the house. This interactive experience enriches the tour, making it a social and educational excursion.

The Modern Tour often results in unexpected social interactions among guests. In one amusing incident, a guest's complaint about not finding his favorite yogurt brand in town led to a surprising offer from another guest who owned the yogurt company. Such interactions add a unique and memorable dimension to the tour.

Stern encourages architecture enthusiasts to participate in Modernism Week, an essential experience for anyone fascinated by mid-century modern design. Additionally, he recommends downloading the Palm Springs Modern app for a self-guided exploration of the city's architectural gems, highlighting Palm Springs' rich and diverse architectural landscape.

For a hands-on experience visiting some of Palm Springs' celebrated homes, let The Modern Tour show you the way.

Local Tips

Check their online packages and holiday deals.
Wear shoes that provide good support and are suitable for walking on different terrains, ensuring a comfortable tour.
Bring a camera to capture the unique designs, striking landscapes, and intricate details of the architectural marvels you'll encounter.
Carry a water bottle with you to keep hydrated as you embark on the tour.
The tour typically lasts about 2 ½ hours, providing an in-depth experience of the area's mid-century modern architecture.

Staging environment