Is this tour suitable for children?

Yes, the tour is family-friendly with no strenuous activity involved.

Are any interiors of homes included in the tour?

No, the tour focuses on exterior views of architecture and neighborhoods only.

What is the best time of year to take this tour?

Spring and fall offer the most comfortable temperatures for enjoying the desert scenery.

Is the tour wheelchair accessible?

The step-on bus is accessible, though accessibility may depend on mobility needs during stops.

How do I book the tour?

You can book directly via the referral link provided or through local visitor centers.

Are there restroom breaks during the tour?

Restroom stops are available at select points, as announced by the guide.

Discover Palm Springs: An Iconic Step-On Tour of Desert Modern Architecture and Hollywood History | City Tour | Sightseeing Tour

Palm Springs, California, offers more than just sun-drenched days and palm-lined streets; it's a pivotal chapter in midcentury American design and Hollywood glamour. The Get Americas Step on Tour invites you to a 90-minute guided exploration that highlights Palm Springs' distinct Desert Modern architecture amid spectacular views of the San Jacinto Mountains and lush golf courses. This is a rare chance to experience the city’s legacy as a retreat for Hollywood stars and U.S. presidents, all while uncovering the stories behind its world-renowned architectural icons. Your guide will join your coach to provide an insightful exterior tour of renowned neighborhoods steeped in architectural innovation. Palm Springs is celebrated for a design philosophy that embraces clean lines, flat planes, and large glass windows that invite the desert indoors, blending indoor and outdoor living spaces seamlessly. This movement, influenced by visionaries like Richard Neutra and Albert Frey, helped transform the city into a creative oasis for architects, artists, and celebrities alike. As the bus rolls through these storied streets, you’ll glimpse the former homes of film legends like Frank Sinatra and Elizabeth Taylor, framed by imposing mountain backdrops and verdant fairways. Beyond the glamorous facades, the tour explains how the city’s unique climate fostered this architectural style, making the desert not a barrier but a canvas for bold, modernist expression. For visitors considering whether to book this experience, the combination of stunning vistas, rich historical narratives, and architectural insight makes it a standout option. This step-on tour is especially appealing for travelers fascinated by architecture, design history, or midcentury Hollywood culture, as well as those seeking an accessible way to absorb the city’s cultural highlights without extensive walking. Palm Springs remains a special gem in Southern California’s outdoor recreation landscape, not only for hiking and golf but as a locus of innovative design that continues to inspire contemporary creators worldwide. The tour’s carefully curated route and expert narration provide context to the city’s ongoing influence as a desert sanctuary for creative minds. Whether you’re here to soak in the sun or the style, booking the Get Americas Step on Tour is a smart way to deepen your connection to Palm Springs, adding rich layers of understanding to your visit and ensuring memories that last long after the desert heat fades.

Difficulty

easy.

Duration

1.5 hours.

Fitness level

No special fitness required; suitable for all ages and mobility levels.

Wildlife

Desert cottontail rabbit
Roadrunner

History

Palm Springs became a hub for Desert Modern architecture during the post-WWII boom, attracting Hollywood elite and architects alike.

Conservation

Local efforts promote water conservation and responsible tourism to preserve the fragile desert ecosystem.

Palm Springs Mod Squad is a Palm Springs, California‑based tour operator focused on mid‑century modern architecture and Desert Modern history. The company offers a variety of guided experiences that include interior tours, exterior walk‑bys, step‑on tours for groups, martini‑and‑architecture pairings, and private custom itineraries. Signature experiences include the Interior Tour, which grants access to three home interiors and begins at The Saguaro Hotel; the Essential Palm Springs Tour, highlighting works by architects such as William Cody and Albert Frey; and the Martinis & Mid Century Architecture Tour, led by Kurt, a noted gin enthusiast who pairs architectural storytelling with expertly crafted martinis. Step‑on offerings such as the Trafalgar and Get Americas Step‑on Tours provide Hollywood and celebrity perspectives, spotlighting famous homes, presidential visits referenced in local history, and sweeping mountain and golf course vistas. Private Interior/Exterior and Interior‑Essential Custom Tours enable deeper exploration of six influential local architects and tailored access to notable properties. Tours emphasize factual architectural history, respectful access to private residences, and informed commentary about design, context, and preservation. Palm Springs Mod Squad coordinates logistics for group and private bookings and connects guests with iconic mid‑century landmarks, celebrity homes, and the creative legacy that shaped the desert oasis. Featured on The Adventure Collective, the operation serves visitors seeking authentic, architecture‑focused experiences in Palm Springs.

Base locationPalm Springs, California

Tours offered8+

Specialtyland-adventures

StewardshipLeave No Trace