7 MUST-SEE Famous Homes in Palm Springs
Explore the architectural splendor of the desert with our guide to the 7 Must-See Famous Homes in Palm Springs, a city synonymous with mid-century modern design and Hollywood history. From the glass-walled Kaufmann Desert House in Little Tuscany to Frank Sinatra’s Twin Palms Estate in the Movie Colony, these residences offer a glimpse into the glamorous lives of "Old Hollywood" royalty. Whether you are touring the Elvis Honeymoon Hideaway or marveling at the organic curves of the Elrod House, Westgate Resorts highlights the iconic estates and legendary architects that transformed Palm Springs, CA, into a global destination for design enthusiasts.
| Home Name | Architect & Year | Neighborhood | Claim To Fame |
|---|---|---|---|
| Kaufmann Desert House | Richard Neutra (1946) | Little Tuscany | Featured in Slim Aarons' "Poolside Gossip" |
| Elvis Honeymoon Hideaway | William Krisel (1962) | Vista Las Palmas | Known as the "House of Tomorrow" |
| Frank Sinatra's Twin Palms | E. Stewart Williams (1947) | Movie Colony | Features a piano-shaped swimming pool |
| The Elrod House | John Lautner (1968) | Southridge | Filming location for 007's "Diamonds Are Forever" |
| Dinah Shore Estate | Donald Wexler (1964) | Old Las Palmas | Owned by Leonardo DiCaprio; 1.3-acre oasis |
The Best Famous Homes in Palm Springs to Visit
Are you looking for the best things to do in Palm Springs on your next desert escape? While there are many incredible outdoor activities in Palm Springs to fill your itinerary—from hiking the Indian Canyons to riding the Aerial Tramway—exploring the legendary architecture is a top priority, especially when staying at the best Palm Springs hotels.
Whether you are an architecture aficionado or a celebrity history buff, these homes are more than just wood, glass, and stone; they are time capsules of American glamour and the undisputed world capital of mid-century modern design.
Glamorous Celebrity Homes in Palm Springs
From the King of Rock 'n' Roll to Old Blue Eyes himself, the Coachella Valley has served as a playground for Hollywood royalty since the 1920s. Grab your oversized sunglasses and a cold drink, because we’re taking you on a tour of the seven must-see famous homes in Palm Springs!
1. The Elvis Honeymoon Hideaway (The House of Tomorrow)
If these walls could sing, they’d probably belt out "Love Me Tender." Known officially as the Alexander Estate, this home earned its House of Tomorrow nickname thanks to its futuristic, circular design.
Built in 1960 by Robert Alexander, the home features four concentric circles across three levels—no square corners here!
While the architecture is a marvel, it’s the history that draws the crowds. Elvis and Priscilla Presley leased this home in 1966 and famously spent their honeymoon here in 1967.
The home remains a private residence but is a focal point for architectural photography from the street. You can’t miss the dramatic sloped roof and the massive stone wall out front. It’s the ultimate spot for a photo that says you're hanging with the King.
Address: 1350 Ladera Circle, Palm Springs, CA 92262
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2. Frank Sinatra’s Twin Palms Estate
When Frank Sinatra wanted a house in the desert, he reportedly walked into architect E. Stewart Williams' office in 1947, demanding a Georgian-style mansion. Thankfully, Williams talked him into a sleek, modern masterpiece instead.
The result? Twin Palms, a four-bedroom beauty named for the two tall palm trees towering over the property. The real showstopper is the piano-shaped swimming pool.
Legend has it Sinatra would hoist a Jack Daniel’s flag between the palm trees to let his neighbors know that the bar was open and the party was starting.
Today, you can actually rent this estate for private events or luxury stays, making it one of the most accessible famous homes in the city.
Address: 1145 E Vía Colusa, Palm Springs, CA 92262
3. The Kaufmann Desert House
If you’ve ever seen a postcard of Palm Springs, you’ve likely seen the Kaufmann Desert House. Designed by Richard Neutra in 1946, this home is considered one of the most important examples of 20th-century architecture.
It was commissioned by Edgar J. Kaufmann, the same department store tycoon who hired Frank Lloyd Wright to build the famous Fallingwater in Pennsylvania.
The house is famous for its living-in-nature vibe, using glass and steel to blend the indoors with the rugged desert landscape. While it’s a private residence hidden behind high walls, you can often catch a glimpse of its iconic silhouette from the street or during specialized architectural bus tours. It is widely regarded as the home that defined the Palm Springs look.
Address: 470 W. Chino Canyon Road, Palm Springs, CA 92262
4. The Marilyn Monroe "Doll House"
While Marilyn Monroe stayed in many places throughout the desert, this charming residence in the Vista Las Palmas neighborhood is often referred to as her Doll House.
Built in 1961 by the Alexander Construction Company, the home features the signature butterfly roof and open floor plan that made Palm Springs famous.
The home remains a beloved landmark, proving that the allure of Marilyn never fades. It’s a quintessential example of the leisure lifestyle—imagine lounging by the pool with the San Jacinto Mountains as your backdrop, just like a Hollywood starlet.
Address: 1326 N. Rose Avenue, Palm Springs, CA 92262
5. The Dinah Shore Estate (The Leonardo DiCaprio House)
This property is a double-whammy of celebrity history! Originally built in 1964 for singer and TV personality Dinah Shore, this Donald Wexler-designed masterpiece is now owned by Leonardo DiCaprio.
Located in the Old Las Palmas neighborhood, the 1.3-acre compound is hidden behind gates and lush greenery, but its architectural significance is well-documented.
With floor-to-ceiling glass walls, a private tennis court, and a separate guest house, it’s the definition of desert luxury. While the owners value their privacy, the street itself is a beautiful walk through one of the most prestigious neighborhoods in the city.
Address: 432 Hermosa Place, Palm Springs, CA 92262
6. The Elrod House
Bond fans, this one is for you! The Elrod House, designed by John Lautner in 1968, famously served as billionaire Willard Whyte’s mansion in the 007 film Diamonds Are Forever.
Perched high on a ridge, the home looks like something out of a sci-fi movie, featuring a massive circular concrete roof with skylights that look like a giant flower.
The living room is built around actual desert boulders that were left in place during construction, perfectly blending the structure with the mountain. Because it’s located in the gated Southridge community, you’ll need to book an official architectural tour to get an up-close look.
Address: 2175 Southridge Drive, Palm Springs, CA 92264
7. Casa Elizabeth (The Elizabeth Taylor House)
Elizabeth Taylor was a frequent visitor to Palm Springs, and this stunning estate—known as the Jewel of the Desert—was her primary sanctuary here. The home is gated and private, but inside, it reportedly still houses some of the original artwork and portraits of the legendary actress.
The property features a main house and multiple detached guest houses, all centered around a resort-style pool. The home is often available as a high-end luxury vacation rental. If you’ve ever wanted to live like a queen for a weekend, this is the place to do it!
Address: 901 N Prescott Dr, Palm Springs, CA 92262
Tips for Your Palm Springs Celebrity Home Tour
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Respect the Neighborhoods: Most of these homes are private residences. Stay on the sidewalk, don't block driveways, and keep noise levels down.
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Join a Guided Tour: Companies like Modern Tours Palm Springs or the Palm Springs Historical Society offer expert-led tours that provide much more context than driving yourself.
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Time Your Visit for Modernism Week: If you’re visiting in February, Modernism Week is the biggest event of the year. Many of these private homes open their doors for ticketed tours that you can't get any other time of year.
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Check the Weather: Palm Springs can be toasty! If you’re doing a walking tour, start early in the morning and bring plenty of water.
Plan Your Stay Near Iconic Landmarks in Palm Springs
Exploring the legendary homes of Palm Springs is like taking a stroll through a live-action Hollywood history book. From the architectural genius of the Kaufmann house to the rock-and-roll vibes of the Elvis hideaway, there is a story behind every gate.
After a day of sightseeing, you can treat yourself at the best Palm Springs restaurants before heading back to relax at The Oasis resort.
For more guides to exploring Palm Springs, visit the Westgate Travel Blog.
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At Westgate Resorts, when you Check-In, there’s a LOT to Check-Out! Your vacation awaits! Start planning your next vacation today or talk with a vacation planner at 888-852-2959 or 407-355-2690.
* Westgate Resorts is in no way affiliated with the attractions featured in this article. Items or places listed are current as of the publishing date of this article. Please call or visit the respective website for the most up-to-date offerings and details.
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