The Palm Springs Art Museum started out life in 1938 as the Palm Springs Desert Museum. Back then, it was a small room focused on a few niche subjects. Today, its permanent collection amasses over 24,000 objects alone. Put aside a good few hours to appreciate the museum's engrossing exhibits and varied events programme.
Before entering, appreciate the museum's striking modernist style created by local architect E. Stewart Williams and designed to complement the desert backdrop. Start with the museum's permanent collection. See Mesoamerican figurines and vessels that date back thousands of year, admire fragile glass artworks by international artists, be beguiled by personal Hollywood photo portraits and see portrayals of Western America in paintings, sculpture, prints and earthenware (The Native American and Art of the West collection fills nine galleries).
Next, get stuck into the museum's current exhibitions. Often there is more than one happening at any one time. Subjects range from master impressionists to abstract expressionists to Native American ceramics. Check ahead to see what's on during your stay.
Attempting to fit everything into one day isn't always possible. The museum's Muse Café provides a great place to refresh with a coffee or lunch. A guided tour of the museum's highlights is available if you're in a hurry. The price for the tour is included in admission, but must be booked a minimum of 14 days ahead of your visit.
Extend your learning by attending one of the museum's many lectures and symposia. You can also get your hands dirty by trying out a workshop or master class – life drawing, acrylic painting and Photoshop courses are just a few. The museum's Annenberg Theater frequently screens free films. Activities for kids are in abundance too –see the museum's website for details.
The Palm Springs Art Museum is open every day, barring Mondays and major holidays. It is on Museum Drive, in downtown Palm Springs. Free parking is available.
