"Palm Springs - a Mid-Century Oasis" Palm Springs by trvlrtom

While Palm Springs draws visitors for a variety of reasons - warmth, sun, golf, tennis, swimming pools - perhaps its most notable attribute is the fascinating architecture that brought the city into focus in the mid 20th century. The mountains, desert sand, drought tolerant plants and trees and clear, expansive sky inspired a movement of design and architecture that became known as Desert Modernism. The use of glass, stone, wide overhangs and stark geometric lines were blended into the landscape to create a unique look and feel to match the elegant yet informal informal lifestyle that was emerging. Development in later decades has somewhat watered down the unique atmosphere, but throughout Palm Springs you will find excellent homes and buildings that maintain the integrity of the creative Modern architects of the 20th century.

Along with the architecture, landscape design and visual art are well expressed in Palm Springs. Many office buildings, shopping centers and homes display beautiful plants that blend with the arid surroundings. Art is also on display in many areas, especially in Palm Desert.

• In a nutshell:More than just golf courses and resorts.