Self Guided Driving Audio Tour of Palm Springs

Download GuideAlong's Palm Springs audio tour for a guided drive through the desert oasis’s star-studded legacy. This half-day drive leads visitors past the estates of legends like Elvis, Bette Davis, Debbie Reynolds, and Frank Sinatra, then through the charming art, shopping, and dining scene in downtown. Next, the expert commentary guides visitors to optional hikes where desert canyons, palms, and mountains frame views of wild sheep and cacti. The driving route ends near the popular Aerial Tram. This tour through Palm Springs is an excellent day trip from L.A. or San Francisco.

1. 1

   Stop 1

   10 min

   The Frederick Loewe Estate was the longtime Palm Springs home of celebrated composer Frederick Loewe, best known for musicals such as My Fair Lady and Camelot. Hidden behind stone walls and greenery, the estate provided Loewe with a peaceful place to enjoy his retirement. He moved here in 1960 and spent the remainder of his life at the property. Today, the estate remains a notable stop connected to Palm Springs’ entertainment history.

2. 2

   Stop 2

   5 min

   The Kaufmann Desert House is one of Palm Springs’ most celebrated examples of mid-century modern architecture. Designed by architect Richard Neutra for businessman Edgar Kaufmann, the residence is known for its clean lines, open design, and integration with the desert landscape. The property was later carefully restored to reflect Neutra’s original vision. Although it is a private residence, its architectural importance makes it a fascinating stop along the route.

3. 3

   Stop 3

   5 min

   The Liberace House is a former Palm Springs residence of the flamboyant pianist and entertainer Liberace. The property reflects the extravagant personality of a performer famous for dazzling costumes, ornate pianos, and spectacular stage appearances. Liberace owned several homes in Palm Springs and decorated this residence in an elaborate French Provincial style. The home is private, but its exterior provides a memorable connection to one of the city’s most colorful celebrity residents.

4. 4

   Stop 4

   5 min

   This distinctive Palm Springs home was designed by architect Donald Wexler for entertainer Dinah Shore and her husband Maurice Smith. Completed in the 1960s, the residence showcases Wexler’s approach to desert-friendly modern architecture and includes a private tennis court. The house later passed through several notable owners and has continued to attract attention for its design. It remains an excellent example of Palm Springs’ celebrity and architectural heritage.

5. 5

   Stop 5

   5 min

   The Movie Colony is one of Palm Springs’ most famous historic neighborhoods, known for attracting Hollywood stars throughout the twentieth century. Frank Sinatra, Dinah Shore, Cary Grant, Jack Benny, and Tony Curtis were among the celebrities connected with the area. The neighborhood also showcases architecture by influential designers such as Richard Neutra, Albert Frey, and Donald Wexler. Driving through the Movie Colony offers an excellent introduction to Palm Springs’ combination of Hollywood history and desert architecture.

6. 6

   Robolights

   5 min

   Robolights is one of Palm Springs’ most unusual artistic attractions, created by sculptor Kenny Irwin Jr. The property is filled with imaginative robots, futuristic creatures, aliens, pirates, and sculptures made from found materials. What began as an elaborate holiday display grew into a distinctive local landmark known for its creativity and eccentric atmosphere. Visitors can admire the artwork from around the property, with closer access sometimes available by arrangement.

7. 7

   Stop 7

   5 min

   Twin Palms is the iconic Palm Springs residence built for Frank Sinatra during the height of his Hollywood fame. The mid-century modern home features large picture windows and a distinctive swimming pool shaped like a grand piano. Sinatra used the property as a desert getaway and gathering place for friends and fellow entertainers. The residence remains one of the city’s best-known links to Sinatra and the glamorous Rat Pack era.

8. 8

   Palm Springs Walk Of Stars

   5 min

   The Palm Springs Walk of Stars celebrates hundreds of people who have contributed to the city’s history and culture. Stars honor entertainers, athletes, architects, humanitarians, military figures, civic leaders, and members of the local Native American community. Honorees include figures such as Marilyn Monroe, Elvis Presley, Bob Hope, James Earl Jones, and Dionne Warwick. Visitors can explore the stars while walking through the heart of downtown Palm Springs.

9. 9

   Stop 9

   5 min

   Palm Springs International Airport has an interesting history stretching back to its origins as a military airfield. After World War II, it developed into a civilian airport and became an important gateway to the Coachella Valley. Its proximity to Hollywood made it especially convenient for celebrities, including Frank Sinatra and Elvis Presley, who frequently traveled to Palm Springs by private aircraft. Today, the airport remains an important part of the city’s connection with Southern California and the entertainment world.

10. 10

    Moorten Botanical Garden

    15 min

    Moorten Botanical Garden is a historic desert garden showcasing an impressive collection of cacti, succulents, and plants from arid regions around the world. Founded by Chester “Cactus Slim” Moorten and Patricia Moorten, the garden features numerous desert-biome displays and the family’s distinctive “Cactus Castle.” The Moortens also created desert landscaping for famous clients, including Walt Disney, Frank Sinatra, and Bing Crosby. The garden offers visitors an enjoyable introduction to the remarkable plant life of the desert.

11. 11

    Stop 11

    5 min

    Andreas Canyon Trail offers a scenic introduction to the natural beauty of the Agua Caliente Indian Reservation. The relatively easy one-mile loop passes palm trees, interesting rock formations, Andreas Creek, and an extraordinary variety of desert plants. Visitors can also see evidence of the Cahuilla people who have lived in this region for generations. The trail combines beautiful scenery, Native American heritage, and an accessible hiking experience close to Palm Springs.

12. 12

    Murray Canyon Trail

    5 min

    Murray Canyon Trail provides a longer hiking experience through the dramatic desert landscape of the Agua Caliente Indian Reservation. The approximately four-mile out-and-back route includes canyon scenery and several stream crossings, particularly during wetter parts of the year. The trail begins near the same area as Andreas Canyon but offers a more challenging adventure for visitors wanting to explore farther into the landscape. Good walking footwear is recommended for the varied terrain.

13. 13

    Palm Canyon Trail

    10 min

    Palm Canyon Trail is one of the most popular hiking experiences in the Palm Springs area. The roughly two-mile route leads through beautiful canyon scenery and native palm groves on land preserved by the Agua Caliente Band of Cahuilla Indians. The area has supported the Cahuilla people for centuries and continues to provide habitat for desert wildlife, including Peninsular bighorn sheep. The trail combines natural beauty, cultural heritage, and an accessible desert hike.

14. 14

    Tahquitz Canyon

    5 min

    Tahquitz Canyon Trail is a scenic two-mile hike combining desert landscapes with important Cahuilla cultural history. The route leads to a dramatic 60-foot seasonal waterfall and passes rock art, ancient home foundations, reservoirs, and areas once used for food preparation. The canyon also plays an important role in traditional Cahuilla stories and beliefs. Visitors can explore the trail while learning about both the natural and cultural history of this remarkable landscape.

• Suitable for all physical fitness levels
• How To Access: After booking you’ll receive an email and text (search “Download Audio Tour”). Click the link to sign in with your preferred Apple or Google account and redeem your voucher code ahead of time.
• Download The GuideAlong App: Download the free app over WiFi or cellular data and sign in with the same Apple or Google account.
• Download The Tour: Download the tour in the GuideAlong app under 'My Tours' over WiFi or cellular data.
• Start The Tour: Open the tour in the GuideAlong app to preview the start locations, tour route and trip planner, or start the tour.
• Location-Based Stories: Audio commentary plays automatically as you drive using your phone’s GPS chip. Wherever you are and whichever direction you’re going, you’ll hear the best stories and tips.

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.