Modernism Week October 2026: Which Tour Should You Book?

The midcentury modern Tramway Gas Station building, now the Palm Springs Visitor Center, in Palm Springs, California
By Published On: September 23, 2026Last Updated: September 23, 2026

Modernism Week’s October event runs October 15–18, 2026. Picking the right kind of tour matters more than filling all four days.

Start with what you want to see. A home’s interior? A neighborhood’s rooflines? A wider look at the city? Those are different outings, and choosing one makes the rest of the day easier.

Which tour should you start with?

These three options in the October program offer different ways into the architecture.

For interiors: The Marquee at Twin Palms

The Marquee is a 1957 post-and-beam home renovated by H3K Home + Design. The tour includes the interior and exterior, so this is the choice for getting beyond the front yard and seeing how the rooms work together.

The listing allows all ages, but notes steps, no available restrooms and no wheelchair access. Check those details against your group’s needs before buying.

For the neighborhood: Twin Palms Estates

The Twin Palms Estates Exteriors Walking Tour looks at the neighborhood’s architecture from outside. It’s a chance to pay attention to the different rooflines, the placement of homes and the landscaping instead of concentrating on one living room.

This guided walk is for ages 13 and older. Wear shoes you want to walk in, bring sun protection and use a restroom beforehand; the listing says none are available on the tour.

For a wider look: the double-decker bus

The Premier Double Decker Architectural Bus Tour covers architectural landmarks and neighborhoods with a guide. It’s a seated tour with exterior views only, for ages 13 and older.

The open-top format means seated does not mean indoors. Bring water and sun protection. Wheelchair accessibility is limited; confirm the arrangements you need before booking.

Can you buy one pass for everything?

No. Events are ticketed individually. Use the ticketing FAQ and the booking page for your chosen event to check its time, admission details and policies. Ticket sales are generally final, with no refunds or exchanges; an organizer-canceled event is an exception.

Our guide to whether the home tours are worth the price can help if you’re still deciding where to spend.

How much should you put into one day?

Choose the event you most want to attend, then plan around its actual location and check-in instructions. Leave room for parking, lunch and getting to the next place. Two tickets with a tiny gap between them can turn a pleasant afternoon into an argument with a navigation app.

If you want another activity, browse the October program’s films, presentations and social events for something that fits. You do not have to make every waking hour architectural.

Find more related reading in our Modernism Week hub.

Written by : Casey Dolan

Casey is the founder of Cactus Hugs and also works with local businesses on their websites and digital marketing. Learn more (and hire!) him here. Please, send him your news tips and your whiskey!