Immerse Yourself In History
The Palm Springs Historical Society is a rich source for the study of Palm Springs history. The Museum's collection of artifacts provides a wealth of information perfect for research and intrigue.
Discover the unique diversity of Palm Springs
Plan A Visit
An Oasis in the Desert
Comprised of two 19th century pioneer homes we are located on The Village Green in a lovely park-like setting amid the hotels, shops and restaurants of legendary Palm Canyon Drive.
View the Collection
Take history home
Explore through thousands of vintage photos and choose a unique selection for your personal or business use. Learn more about our rights and reproductions licensing.
Lend Your Support
We can't do it without you
Join and support our efforts to preserve the heritage of Palm Springs. Discover member benefits like exclusive invitations, special discounts and free admission.
The Chi Chi
The famed watering hole where some of the brightest names in showbiz gathered for more than 25 years. The lineup included talent like Cab Callaway, Ella Fitzgerald, Sophie Tucker, Louis Armstrong, and Wayne Newton. Vocal groups ranged from the Ink Spots to the Andrew Sisters. Featured comics were Jack Benny, Milton Berl and Red Buttons.
On display is the drum set of Bill Alexander musical director and master of ceremonies for the Starlite Room. Along with authentic night club memorabilia, including plates, glasses, napkins, ashtrays, playing cards, a Chi Chi lighter, swizzle sticks and menus dating back to 1938.
Come hear the recordings of the actual live performances of Nat King Cole, Louis Armstrong and Lena Horne as they performed at the Chi Chi.
Books, DVD's, Calendars, Jackets and much more...
Purchase one of a kind items not found in stores. Great unique gifts.
New Historical Walking Tours
Join the Palm Springs Historical Society on a remarkable trip through Palm Spring's past. The tour leaves from the McCallum Adobe, 221 South Palm Canyon Drive and runs approximately 1 hour. This is a walking tour so please be prepared, bring a hat, water, sunscreen and wear comfortable shoes. Water may be purchased at the McCallum Adobe and restrooms are available at our facility.
Reservations requirred - Reserve your place now call 760.323.8297.
Interested in private tours? Call to find out more.
Tours cost:
Non members = $15.00 per person
PSHS Members = $5.00 per person
Tour includes:
- Enjoy refreshments provided by Espresso Cielo.
- Historical Palm Springs highlights - learn the history.
- Mid-Century and Spanish Architecture.
- Fantastic Palm Springs stories - hear the glamorous tales of days gone by.
- Free admission to both museums - The McCallum Adobe and Cornelia White House.
Tour 1 - The Heart of the City
Includes Historical Business district of downtown Palm Springs, including La Plaza, Mercado Plaza and Walk of Stars.
- Wed - 9:45 am
- Thu - 4:00 pm
- Fri - 9:45 am
- Sat - 9:45 am
Tour 2 - Palm Springs Life: Inns, Glamour and Architecture
Focus is on the history of the Ingleside Inn, the Viceroy Hotel, La Serena Villas, the Del Marcos Hotel, the Palm Springs Woman's Club, the Community Church and the Orchid Tree Inn.
- Thu - 9:45 am
Tour 3 -Palm Springs Modernism
During Palm Springs Modernism Week, for 11 days from February 16 - 26, we will have a special Modernism tour. This is an exciting celebration of mid-century modern design, architecture and culture.
Tours depart at 10:00am from Union Bank of Palm Springs, 500 S. Indian Canyon Drive, Palm Springs, and last approximately 1 hour. Covers the area south of Baristo Rd bordered by Indian Canyon Drive and S. Palm Canyon Drive. Examines the history of the development and design of the area, including banks designed by E. Stewart Williams and Gruen & Associates.
Learn more about PS Modernism Week »
- 10:00 am daily (Thursday, Feb 16 through Sunday, Feb 26)
Learn about the Agua Caliente Band of Cahuilla Indians
According to anthropologists, Native Americans have lived beside the sparkling waters of Palm Springs' tree lined canyons and around its bubbling hot springs for over a thousand years. They survived by using a multitude of desert plants for food, clothing and medicine.
Visit the Agua Caliente Cultural Museum » in the building next to us, who preserve and revive aspects of traditional culture through exhibitions, lectures, films, tours, workshops and educational outreach programs.
See how the historic Palm Springs-based tribe as a Sovereign Tribal Government strive to maintain their cultural heritage and past within the community today at www.aguacaliente.org
