Whether you’re visiting Palm Springs or you’re a desert local, you don’t want to miss a chance to visit Sunnylands. Known as “Camp David of the West,” this historic estate offers something for everyone, whether you love history and politics, midcentury modern architecture, gardening, or even birdwatching! This is also one of my favorite and lesser-known family-friendly things to do in Palm Springs, with ongoing children’s programming, family days, and plenty of outdoor space for the little ones to roam around!
If you’re planning a visit, here’s what to know before visiting Sunnylands!
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History of Sunnylands
Behind its perfectly pink walls in Rancho Mirage, Sunnylands stands as a testament to both luxury and legacy. Its history traces back to the mid-20th century when it was commissioned by Walter and Leonore Annenberg, well-respected philanthropists and diplomats. The estate, often referred to as the “Camp David of the West,” served as a private sanctuary for the Annenbergs and their distinguished guests, including political leaders, entertainers, and dignitaries.
The Annenbergs played a pivotal role in shaping not only the estate itself but also its significance within American society. Walter Annenberg, a media magnate and philanthropist, also served as the U.S. ambassador to the United Kingdom. His wife, Leonore, was known for her philanthropic endeavors and served as the United States Chief of Protocol under President Ronald Reagan.
Under their stewardship, Sunnylands blossomed into a retreat of unparalleled desert elegance. The estate’s architecture by A. Quincy Jones seamlessly blends indoor and outdoor spaces, and visitors plan out trips months, sometimes even years, in advance.
Beyond its architectural grandeur, Sunnylands holds a special place in history as a venue for high-level diplomacy and cultural exchange. Throughout the years, it has hosted numerous influential figures, including presidents, royalty, and renowned artists. Its tranquil surroundings provided an ideal setting for important discussions and intimate gatherings, earning it a reputation as a haven for world leaders seeking respite from the demands of public life.
Today, Sunnylands continues to honor the legacy of the Annenberg family through its commitment to education, conservation, and diplomacy. The estate serves as a cultural center and retreat, offering visitors a glimpse into its storied past and the enduring impact of its founders.
When Is Sunnylands Open?
Planning a visit to Sunnylands? Here’s what you need to know. Sunnylands welcomes visitors from mid-September through early June each year, closing through the summer months.
While open during season, the Sunnylands Historic Estate is only accessible by guided tour. However, Sunnylands Center & Gardens is open to the public free of charge from mid-September through early June. The Center & Gardens are open from Wednesday through Sunday, closed Monday and Tuesday.
Also, Sunnylands periodically closes for special events, so it’s always a good idea to check the official website for the most up-to-date information.
Is Sunnylands Open to Visitors?
If you’re eager to explore the beauty and history of Sunnylands, don’t worry: Sunnylands is open to visitors. Before you visit, though, you’ll want to understand the difference between the Estate and The Center & Gardens, and how to access both.
Sunnylands Estate itself is open to visitors by ticketed tour only. This means that to experience the grandeur of the estate’s interior, including its midcentury modern architecture and curated collections, you’ll need to join one of the 90-minute guided tours offered. These tours provide a unique opportunity to step inside the private world of Sunnylands and learn about its storied past. Tickets sell out fast, so be sure to keep an eye on the Sunnylands website for details. Tickets are released on the 15th of each month at 9am PST for the following month’s tours, so be sure to plan ahead!
In addition to the historic estate tours, the public is also welcome to visit the Sunnylands Center & Gardens, which are open to the public and free of charge. Here, visitors can explore beautifully landscaped gardens, stroll along tranquil pathways, and admire the desert flora and fauna. This is one of my absolute favorite photo spots! Inside, the Sunnylands Center features exhibits, galleries, and educational displays that provide insights into the estate’s history, architecture, and conservation efforts.
Can I Visit the Sunnylands Center & Gardens?
Absolutely! While touring the estate itself provides a glimpse into the compound’s rich history, visiting Sunnylands Center & Gardens offers a different–yet equally captivating–experience.
Open to the public, Sunnylands Center & Gardens welcome visitors to explore the beauty and tranquility of its outdoor spaces. The Sunnylands Center serves as the gateway to the estate, offering a wealth of exhibits, galleries, and interactive displays that dive into the history, architecture, and legacy of Sunnylands and the Annenbergs. Here, visitors can learn about the Annenberg family’s contributions to art, education, and diplomacy, as well as the estate’s ongoing commitment to environmental conservation and sustainability.
One of the center’s main attractions is its rotating exhibits, which showcase a range of topics and themes related to Sunnylands’ history and mission. From art installations and photography collections to educational displays and multimedia presentations, there’s always something new and exciting to see here!
In my opinion, the outdoor gardens are worth the visit over and over again. Outside, you’ll find lush landscapes, scenic pathways, and a great lawn that’s absolutely perfect for picnics. The gardens feature a stunning array of desert plants and native species that reflect the beauty and diversity of the surrounding desert. I particularly love the water features and the meditation labyrinth.
Highlights of the gardens include the iconic blue agave circle, the vibrant cactus garden, and the peaceful walking trails that wind through the property. Visitors can also enjoy panoramic views of the San Jacinto Mountains–this is STUNNING in winter when there’s snow on the mountains!
Is There a Restaurant at Sunnylands?
The Sunnylands Center & Gardens features a café with light refreshments, snacks, and drinks to enjoy. Whether you’re in the mood for a freshly brewed coffee, a refreshing smoothie, or a light bite to eat, the café has something to satisfy everyone.
With indoor and outdoor seating available, guests can choose to dine al fresco on the patio and soak in the beautiful surroundings or enjoy their meal indoors in air-conditioned comfort. Personally, I think the outdoor patio offers one of the best views for a meal in the desert, so I’ll always take my food to the patio or the lawn!
Special Events at Sunnylands
Throughout the year, Sunnylands hosts a variety of special events and programs. From art exhibitions to guided bird walks to outdoor yoga, there’s always something new to enjoy at Sunnylands!
Some of my favorite special events at Sunnylands include outdoor yoga on the lawn and the after dark movie screenings. But there’s so much more to enjoy, too! Sunnylands offers free guided bird walks, walking tours of the gardens, horticulture workshops, tai chi in the gardens, family activity days, and more.
Whether you’re a Palm Springs local looking for a fun weekend outing or looking for a fun thing to do on your Palm Springs vacation, Sunnylands offers something for everyone to enjoy. Be sure to check the estate’s official website or event calendar for the latest on tickets, upcoming events and programs during your visit!
And don’t forget to check out even more things to do in Palm Springs!
