Palm Springs Art Museum
Nestled at the base of the San Jacinto Mountains in the heart of downtown Palm Springs, the Palm Springs Art Museum tops our list of must-try arts and culture experiences in Greater Palm Springs. With a permanent collection that houses more than 12,000 objects, you’re guaranteed to discover something inspiring, and transformative, around every corner. Explore three floors of modern and contemporary media, architecture and design, and art of the American West, including:
- Sculptures, paintings and prints
- Fine art photographs
- Native American basketry, textiles, pottery and jewelry
The Palm Springs Art Museum also hosts temporary, rotating exhibitions as well as open studios with artists in residence. Check in advance for their most up-to-date offerings.
Annenberg Theater
Take your seat and let the creative expressions of visual and performing artists move you at the Palm Springs Art Museum’s famed on-site entertainment venue, the Annenberg Theater. This state-of-the-art theater has hosted everything from internationally acclaimed musicians to theater productions, films and lectures.
Persimmon Bistro & Wine Bar
Enjoy Mediterranean-inspired cuisine, sip some of the finest teas and coffees, and even indulge in a glass of chilled rosé in this charming eatery tucked away next to the museum’s sculpture garden.
Satellite Campuses
Extend your art journey by visiting one (or both) of the Palm Springs Art Museum’s satellite campuses. Located just down the street in downtown Palm Springs, the Palm Springs Art Museum Architecture and Design Center, Edwards-Harris Pavilion, features midcentury exhibitions, archives, and collections, while the Palm Desert campus showcases a variety of painting, photography and new media. (Be sure to set aside a few minutes to wander through the 2-acre outdoor sculpture garden.)
Every Thursday evening from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m., the Palm Springs Art Museum has free admission. Head into the museum for a look at all of the incredible art. After, you can walk straight down Museum Way where you will find the Palm Springs VillageFest, which happens Thursday evening on Palm Canyon Drive. Shop all things local, from food to soaps, candles and more.
The Palm Springs Art Museum is open weekly on Thursdays from noon to 8:00 p.m. and Friday, Saturday, Sunday from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.