Top 'Modernism Week' Tours

'Mod mod mod' is what it's all about as we head towards one of the most popular mid-century modern events anywhere—Palm Springs' annual Modernism Week.

'Desert modern' takes center stage as architecture buffs from around the world come together for this epic festival, which launches February 15 and runs through February 25. Modernism Week's 11 days and collection of 350 events are mindboggling—and include every kind of talk, tour, exhibit, and presentation under the sun.

From that seemingly endless list, we've handpicked six extra-special architectural tours (hopefully none has yet sold out) that have the makings to put festivalgoers into the ultimate mid-century modern mood.

Frey House II and Museum Tour
Here's a self-guided tour presenting a rare opportunity to experience perfection in design. Hosted by the Palm Springs Art Museum, Frey House II is recognized the world over as one of architect Albert Frey's most beautiful works, and Frey's mastery of form and function and respect for the landscape come together.

For this tour, a shuttle van will take ticket holders from the Palm Springs Art Museum to Frey House II. Tickets include free admission to both the Palm Springs Art Museum and the Architecture & Design Center from February 15-25. A twilight tour for a limited number of guests at Frey II is available each evening, for ages 21 and above. Get tix.

Wexler '54 Tour
Head over to the Deepwell Estates neighborhood for a tour of the recently renovated and officially designated Wexler-Harrison residence. This post-and-beam-designed home was one of the first designed by architects Donald Wexler and Richard Harrison. Constructed by builder Robert 'Bob' Higgins, the home was built for the Hutchens family and completed in 1954. The current homeowners worked with architect and preservation consultant Susan Secoy Jensen to restore and landmark the home, which was officially designated in 2022. Get tix.