Village Green

The Village Green is a heritage park in Palm Springs housing four historic buildings operated by the Palm Springs Historical Society. Making it the heart of Palm Springs' storied past, offering a great place to discover Palm Springs history.

The Village Green is a free guided tour with a docent who will share documented facts and amusing stories of the colorful characters, entrepreneurial spirit, native roots, plus pioneer determination and rivalry to help you understand how this little desert village was formed.

The docent transforms the evolution of this central point, giving an engaging educational experience by providing crucial context, bringing stories to life. After the tour if you desire to explore and dive in deeper you may do so on your own, as all the museums have free admission.

- The McCallum Adobe: Built in 1884 is the oldest building in the city, built by John Guthrie McCallum, the first major non-native settler, who brought a structured water system to the area. The sunbaked bricks used to form the structure were made by Cahuilla Indians using a mix of mud, fiber, and ancient water from the hot springs, itself known for curative properties. The adobe still stands proudly today.

- The Cornelia White House: Built in 1893 the home of early pioneer Cornelia B. White was constructed from salvaged Palmdale railroad ties. Yes, repurposing existed even in this period, Cornelia's home is a great example of creative reuse. Staged from the the 1900s, you can come inside to experience early desert living.

- Ruddy's General Store: A nostalgic recreation of a 1930s general store, filled with over 6,000 authentic, original products from that era. Every detail is authentic, including the original showcases, fixtures, signs and products. Thanks to the work and generosity of Jim Ruddy, this museum is the best-preserved collection of American culture from the 1930s/40s. The minute you walk inside the doors you are transported back in time.

- The Oasis: This building was relocated and once part of the Oasis Hotel, the first modern building built in Palm Springs by Lloyd Wright. You can still see remnants of the Wright-designed intricate scissor-truss roof inside the building. This section was part of the famed dining hall.

Now an exhibit gallery currently featuring a tribute to musician Trini Lopez whose life was a true rags to riches story. Son of Mexican immigrants, growing up in "Little Mexico" the barrio of Texas, to hanging with the Hollywood elite, and gaining international stardom. Trini made Palm Springs his home until his death in 2020.

Village Green Tours offered: Monday, Thursday and Saturday. 
Time: 10:30 am - 11:30 am (1 hour)

Cost: FREE but reservations required. Please book here to reserve your spot.

Starting Location: Palm Springs Historical Society - 
221 S Palm Canyon Drive - meet at the Oasis Gallery #219