The
14th Annual Tour de Palm Springs will make its way into the desert this weekend and there’s no doubt that the best way to take in the city’s views while soaking up the sun is from behind your handlebars. Whether you’re a biking novice or a pro cycler, the Tour de Palm Springs routes combine warm weather exercise with Palm Springs’ historic mid-century modern architecture, iconic Old Hollywood glamour and thriving museum and art culture.
These routes will be featured during this weekend’s Tour de Palm Springs and they also make for great exploration tours year-round. Grab your helmet, print your map and get ready for your bicycle tour of Palm Springs!
Celebrity Homes
The
5-Mile Ride to the Stars is the shortest of the Tour de Palm Springs routes, but you’ll be treated to the historic mid-century modern architecture that continues to attract celebrities to Palm Springs today. The ride starts on North Palm Canyon and takes you to the bungalow that once belonged to Clark Gable and Carole Lombard. Next, keep an eye out for George Hamilton’s signature on the right side of the driveway of his former home. And it won’t be hard to spot the circular design of the “House of Tomorrow,” better known as the “Honeymoon Hideaway” of Elvis and Priscilla Presley.
Loads of other celebrity homes and iconic architecture are featured on the route so be sure to bring your camera! The route also features estates that once belonged to Debbie Reynolds, Howard Hughes, Goldie Hawn and Kurt Russell, and the Reagans.
Museums Galore
For a longer ride that focuses on the city’s museums, the
10-Mile Museum Ride is for you. Starting on North Palm Canyon Drive, the route loops through the city with a stop at the
Palm Springs Air Museum. Take a break at the museum for a close-up look at historic aircraft from World War II and beyond before finishing your ride.
At the end of your route, you can pedal to the
Palm Springs Art Museum to soak up modern art and view contemporary pieces. Nearby, the
Desert Art Center features the works of local artists and guests can sign up for an art class to create their own masterpiece. Before putting your kickstand down for the day, ride to the nearby
Agua Caliente Cultural Museum, which presents the history and culture of the Agua Caliente Band of Cahuilla Indians, the area’s indigenous population.
Learn more about the
Tour de Palm Springs and how you can participate in this year's charity rides.
Need a bike? Rent one at
Bike Palm Springs and start exploring!