Modernism Week | Tamarisk Neighborhood Walking Tour

Discover the hidden midcentury architectural gems of Rancho Mirage on an intriguing and insightful two-hour walking tour led by local historians and preservationists from local nonprofit Preservation Mirage. The Tamarisk neighborhood is a treasure trove of midcentury architecture and features some of the most important homes in the valley. Discover the fascinating history of Tamarisk Country Club from the early 1950s.

This walking tour takes you on quiet, public streets behind Tamarisk Country Club. It highlights significant, historic midcentury homes (exteriors only) designed by famed desert modernist architects including Hugh Kaptur, William F. Cody, Donald Wexler, William Krisel, and Val Powelson’s iconic gull-wing Maranz House, as well as homes for celebrities like Gummo and Groucho Marx. You’ll also see fine examples of resort communities, including designated historic districts by Cody and Krisel: Cody Court, and Tamarisk Ranchos. These resort-style communities were built in the 1950s and were unique to Rancho Mirage, offering an alternative to big homes on the fairways.

Walks are approximately 1.5 miles total on quiet, flat public roads, and take two hours.  Suitable for fit and healthy walkers, but wheelchairs are welcome.  Leashed, well-behaved dogs are allowed; no children under 10 years old, please.  Suitable footwear, sunglasses, hats and sunscreen are recommended.  A percentage of funds raised go towards Preservation Mirage, a non-profit organization whose mission is to educate the community and help preserve the architectural legacy of the City of Rancho Mirage.

$50

Things to Know

• Walking tour recommended for fit/avid walkers.
• Sunscreen, hats, sunglasses & flat walking shoes recommended.
• Leashed well-behaved dogs are allowed.
• No children under 10 years of age.
• Wheelchairs are welcome.
• Each attendee will receive a complimentary Preservation Mirage Architecture Map.
• Please bring bottled water.
• Tour includes exteriors only.