Modernism Week has unveiled a major new way for design lovers to experience Palm Springs: a free digital guide available through the Bloomberg Connects arts and cultural app, created by Bloomberg Philanthropies. The launch marks a significant expansion of Modernism Week’s year‑round reach, making its tours, expertise, and exclusive content accessible to anyone—whether exploring the city in person or discovering its modernist legacy from afar.
The digital guide is available via the free Bloomberg Connects app at https://www.bloombergconnects.org/ or online at https://guides.bloombergconnects.org/en-US/guide/modernismWeek. Modernism Week is now one of hundreds of global cultural institutions featured on the platform—and notably, the only organization from Palm Springs.
“This free Digital Guide allows everyone to easily explore Modernism Week tours and videos, whether they are in Palm Springs or anywhere else in the world,” said Modernism Week CEO Lisa Vossler Smith. “We’re thrilled to share curated information about iconic architecture, festival experiences, and the vibrant stories that shape Palm Springs as a premier modernist destination.”
A Digital City Tour for All
The guide includes a free Digital City Tour, narrated by Vossler Smith, featuring 20 significant architectural sites such as:
- Palm Springs Visitor Center
- Town and Country Center
- Plaza Theatre
- Ocotillo Lodge
- Multiple landmark bank buildings
The tour can be enjoyed on‑site or remotely, offering a rich introduction to the city’s architectural landscape.
Exclusive Guided Tours
Two additional narrated tours expand the experience:
Unseen Midcentury Desert Modern
Inspired by photographer and author Dan Chavkin’s acclaimed book, this tour reveals hidden midcentury gems across the valley—buildings and design details that have long been “hiding in plain sight.”
Palm Springs Modern Living
Based on James Schnepf’s book, this tour highlights iconic midcentury homes and the stories behind them. As architect William Krisel wrote in the foreword, “Palm Springs has its own unique vibe and one has to be aware of it.”
Archival Videos & Behind‑the‑Scenes Content
The Digital Guide’s Library features private home tours, presentations by architects and preservationists, and archival footage capturing Modernism Week’s most memorable moments.
Upcoming Festivals
- Modernism Week – October: October 15–18, 2026 (tickets on sale now)
- Modernism Week 2027: February 11–21, 2027 (tickets on sale November 1, 2026; schedule preview October 25, 2026)
For current event details, visit modernismweek.com.
“We are grateful to Bloomberg Connects for helping us bring Modernism Week to people everywhere,” said Board Chair William Kopelk. “This guide allows anyone, anywhere, to experience the excitement of modernism.”
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