A Bert's Eye View - Palm Springs Modernism, History and much More

A Bert's Eye View - Palm Springs Modernism, History and much More

By Bert from the Bus Tours

A Bert's Eye View explores different "views" of Palm Springs and the Greater Palm Springs area. I look at architecture, history, and dig a little deeper into a variety of subjects.
I manage the bus tours for Modernism Week, and a lot of these topics were the result of guests' questions. When we couldn't answer them, I started researching, and these podcasts are the result. Along the way, I have run into a lot of surprises and share them here!
So follow, and if you have a question you need answered, leave a comment. I look forward to hearing from you or seeing you on one of the bus tours!

Currently playing episode

Lines of Luxury: Raymond Loewy in Palm Springs

A Bert's Eye View - Palm Springs Modernism, History and much More Nov 10, 2025
00:00
07:01
Celebrate! XOXO Palm Springs!

Celebrate! XOXO Palm Springs!

Palm Springs comes alive this summer with XOXO Palm Springs, a new citywide festival showcasing the creativity, stories, and artistic spirit that define our desert community. For twelve days, the city transforms into an open‑air cultural playground — from theaters and galleries to historic landmarks, boutique hotels, and outdoor stages.

This episode of A Bert’s Eye View is brought to you by Modernism Week— the celebration of midcentury and modern architecture, design, and culture in sunny Palm Springs, California. Join the fun in October and February with tours, talks, parties, and more—tickets and details at ⁠modernismweek.com⁠.

The information presented in this podcast is for general knowledge and entertainment purposes only. All research that was done and opinions expressed are our own and not necessarily those of Modernism Week.

Jun 11, 202607:01
Cars! Gas & Wash in Palm Springs...

Cars! Gas & Wash in Palm Springs...

It's fitting that a town known for its love of cars (Remember the podcast about the Avanti?) has two monuments to car culture bookending the city.

This episode of A Bert’s Eye View is brought to you by Modernism Week— the celebration of midcentury and modern architecture, design, and culture in sunny Palm Springs, California. Join the fun in October and February with tours, talks, parties, and more—tickets and details at ⁠modernismweek.com⁠.

The information presented in this podcast is for general knowledge and entertainment purposes only. All research that was done and opinions expressed are our own and not necessarily those of Modernism Week.


Jun 08, 202606:47
Marilyn at 100! Come celebrate!

Marilyn at 100! Come celebrate!

Palm Springs is hosting a special centennial celebration of Marilyn Monroe's birthday! Come celebrate our attempt at setting a world record!

This episode of A Bert’s Eye View is brought to you by Modernism Week— the celebration of midcentury and modern architecture, design, and culture in sunny Palm Springs, California. Join the fun in October and February with tours, talks, parties, and more—tickets and details at ⁠modernismweek.com⁠.

The information presented in this podcast is for general knowledge and entertainment purposes only. All research that was done and opinions expressed are our own and not necessarily those of Modernism Week.

May 29, 202607:29
Get a great meal at a good price! Celebrate Greater Palm Springs Restaurant Week

Get a great meal at a good price! Celebrate Greater Palm Springs Restaurant Week

Greater Palm Springs Restaurant Week starts in a few days. Join me at a new (soon-to-be-favorite) restaurant and try one of their signature menu items without breaking the bank!

Make a reservation at http://VisitGreaterPalmSprings.com/restaurant-week

and you'll donate a $1 to FIND food bank.

(sorry, you'll need to cut and paste - we can't share live links...)

This episode of A Bert’s Eye View is brought to you by Modernism Week— the celebration of midcentury and modern architecture, design, and culture in sunny Palm Springs, California. Join the fun in October and February with tours, talks, parties, and more—tickets and details at ⁠modernismweek.com⁠.

The information presented in this podcast is for general knowledge and entertainment purposes only. All research that was done and opinions expressed are our own and not necessarily those of Modernism Week.

May 25, 202606:59
Explore the Ranch Club Neighborhood

Explore the Ranch Club Neighborhood

Noel Clarke had a vision in the 1950s. We take a look at what remains of what he tried to build.

The image accompanying this episode features a restored Hugh Kaptur-designed home in Ranch Club Estates.


This episode of A Bert’s Eye View is brought to you by Modernism Week— the celebration of midcentury and modern architecture, design, and culture in sunny Palm Springs, California. Join the fun in October and February with tours, talks, parties, and more—tickets and details at ⁠modernismweek.com⁠.

The information presented in this podcast is for general knowledge and entertainment purposes only. All research that was done and opinions expressed are our own and not necessarily those of Modernism Week.

May 18, 202607:04
Do you feel like I do? Palm Springs Zen
May 11, 202608:00
A century old and going strong! Casa Cody Inn
May 04, 202607:56
Discover Twin Palms - The first Modernist Neighbhood
Apr 27, 202608:16
Palm Springs is cool! Even when it is hot!!!
Apr 20, 202606:38
A Desert Jewel: La Plaza Shopping Center

A Desert Jewel: La Plaza Shopping Center

90 years old this year and still vibrant, an important part of Palm Springs city life. The story of La Plaza and how it came to be.


This episode of A Bert’s Eye View is brought to you by Modernism Week— the celebration of midcentury and modern architecture, design, and culture in sunny Palm Springs, California. Join the fun in October and February with tours, talks, parties, and more—tickets and details at ⁠modernismweek.com⁠.

The information presented in this podcast is for general knowledge and entertainment purposes only. All research that was done and opinions expressed are our own and not necessarily those of Modernism Week.

Apr 13, 202608:37
Designated Cool: How Palm Springs protects its past

Designated Cool: How Palm Springs protects its past

Join me as we take a deeper look into the Palm Springs City Historic Designation system. What is eligible? What does it mean? Is your favorite building protected?

For a complete list of historic sites, visit the Palm Springs City Planning Department pages at this link:

This episode of A Bert’s Eye View is brought to you by Modernism Week — your ticket to the best in midcentury and modern architecture, design, and culture, all in vibrant Palm Springs, California. Mark your calendar for October and February, when the city comes alive with tours, talks, parties, and more. Explore the full schedule at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠modernismweek.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠.

The information presented in this podcast is for general knowledge and entertainment purposes only. All research that was done and opinions expressed are our own and not necessarily those of Modernism Week.

Apr 06, 202606:40
Secrets in the Shade: The Willows of Palm Springs
Mar 30, 202608:36
Hot Springs - Deep Roots
Mar 23, 202607:51
A jewel in the heart of the city: The Town & Country Center
Mar 16, 202607:35
Block Party: Palm Springs Breeze Blocks
Mar 09, 202606:29
Downtown Oasis: Tales from the Heart of Palm Springs
Mar 02, 202607:36
From Fairways to Footlights: The Bob Hope Desert Classic
Feb 23, 202608:05
The inner workings of Modernism Week
Feb 16, 202608:54
SPECIAL - CAMP BUILD OUT UPDATE - LIVE!

SPECIAL - CAMP BUILD OUT UPDATE - LIVE!

I went over to the Hyatt Hotel downtown this morning, where a large crew is busy assembling CAMP for Modernism Week. There is a lot to do - will they be ready Thursday morning? In this chat with David, the Modernism Week staff member responsible for CAMP, he is confident!

Feb 09, 202606:35
Your Backstage Pass to Modernism Week
Feb 09, 202607:08
Behind the Pink Walls: The Sunnylands Story
Feb 02, 202607:08
Dates of our Lives
Jan 26, 202608:33
Where Pioneers Rest: Welwood Cemetary
Jan 19, 202607:24
The Coachella Collective: Festivals in the Valley
Jan 12, 202608:34
Spotlight on the Chi Chi Club!

Spotlight on the Chi Chi Club!

The Chi Chi Club is long gone, but it ruled entertainment in downtown Palm Springs for two decades. We explore it history and contribution to the city today.


This episode of A Bert’s Eye View is brought to you by Modernism Week— the celebration of midcentury and modern architecture, design, and culture in sunny Palm Springs, California. Join the fun in October and February with tours, talks, parties, and more—tickets and details at ⁠modernismweek.com⁠.

The information presented in this podcast is for general knowledge and entertainment purposes only. All research that was done and opinions expressed are our own and not necessarily those of Modernism Week.

Jan 05, 202607:39
Happy Holidays! I'm dreaming of a...

Happy Holidays! I'm dreaming of a...

Best wishes to all my listeners and followers for a healthy 2026! A short podcast this week dives into the most popular Christmas song of all time!


This episode of A Bert’s Eye View is brought to you by Modernism Week— the celebration of midcentury and modern architecture, design, and culture in sunny Palm Springs, California. Join the fun in October and February with tours, talks, parties, and more—tickets and details at ⁠modernismweek.com⁠.

The information presented in this podcast is for general knowledge and entertainment purposes only. All research that was done and opinions expressed are our own and not necessarily those of Modernism Week.

Dec 22, 202503:19
Desert Spin! When is a windmill not a windmill?

Desert Spin! When is a windmill not a windmill?

When it is a wind turbine! Learn all about these amazing machines that capture a free limitless natural resource!


This episode of A Bert’s Eye View is brought to you by Modernism Week— the celebration of midcentury and modern architecture, design, and culture in sunny Palm Springs, California. Join the fun in October and February with tours, talks, parties, and more—tickets and details at ⁠modernismweek.com⁠.

The information presented in this podcast is for general knowledge and entertainment purposes only. All research that was done and opinions expressed are our own and not necessarily those of Modernism Week.

Dec 15, 202508:03
The curtain rises - again! The Plaza Theatre

The curtain rises - again! The Plaza Theatre

The Plaza Theatre in downtown Palm Springs has reopened after an extensive renovation and is alive with the sound of music, comedy, films, and other performances. Greta Garbo would be proud!


The background music in this podcast is from the film Camille, which premiered at the Plaza Theatre in 1936. Frederic Chopin's Nocturne in E Flat Major and Carl Maria Von Weber's Aufforderung zum Tanz are in the public domain. The actual full Camille soundtrack is still under copyright protection.


This episode of A Bert’s Eye View is brought to you by Modernism Week— the celebration of midcentury and modern architecture, design, and culture in sunny Palm Springs, California. Join the fun in October and February with tours, talks, parties, and more—tickets and details at ⁠modernismweek.com⁠.

The information presented in this podcast is for general knowledge and entertainment purposes only. All research that was done and opinions expressed are our own and not necessarily those of Modernism Week.

Dec 08, 202508:57
Front Door Stories: A virtual kaleidoscope of entryways!

Front Door Stories: A virtual kaleidoscope of entryways!

Palm Springs doors. From turquoise to bubble gum pink. Our doors are a statement of fun, creativity, and joy.


This episode of A Bert’s Eye View is brought to you by Modernism Week— the celebration of midcentury and modern architecture, design, and culture in sunny Palm Springs, California. Join the fun in October and February with tours, talks, parties, and more—tickets and details at ⁠modernismweek.com⁠.

The information presented in this podcast is for general knowledge and entertainment purposes only. All research that was done and opinions expressed are our own and not necessarily those of Modernism Week.

Dec 01, 202507:13
Blueprints of Faith. Celebrating our houses of worship
Nov 24, 202508:13
Popcorn in the parking lot! Palm Springs Drive-In theaters.
Nov 17, 202506:06
Lines of Luxury: Raymond Loewy in Palm Springs
Nov 10, 202507:01
Love-Love in the desert! Tennis in the Valley.
Nov 03, 202507:21
Inspiring, entertaining and a bit wacky! Robolights!
Oct 27, 202507:47
Insider tips for Modernism Week guests from the staff

Insider tips for Modernism Week guests from the staff

Preview for February 2026 Modernism Week opens today and ticket sales start November 1st!

We polled the folks who put together the Modernism Week Festivals and asked them for their top tips for making your visit the best ever!

1. If you have only a few hours and therefore time for only one thing, jump on a double-decker bus tour.  Perfect overview of Palm Springs’ mid-century modern architecture, both residential and commercial, while providing an orientationto the city’s geography and how it is laid out.  

2. If you have a halfday, let’s say a morning or afternoon – Number 1 above, PLUS a neighborhood tour. Pick one of the iconic, historic neighborhoods — Vista Las Palmas, Racquet Club Estates, Old Las Palmas, Twin Palms,Little Beverly Hills, Historic Tennis Club, Sunrise Park, Tahquitz River Estates, and Little Tuscany. These neighborhoods are filled with mid-century architecture and define the original residential pillars ofPalm Springs.

3. If you have a full day – Numbers 1 and 2 above PLUS a home tour.  For the home tour, pick one of the celebrity or other high-profile homes – Sinatra’s Twin Palms, House of Tomorrow, or Frey House II.

4. If you have more than 1 day, all of the above, and add Annenberg/Camp presentations/workshops.  The Annenberg/Camp docket covers everything mid-century modern, including mid-century adjacent. While planning, review the schedule of events with an OPEN MIND because you will find offerings on subjects you know you’re interested in, and you will “discover” others that will be intriguing to you - pick a few of those too. Learn new stuff!

5. If you have several days, create your must-do list – make sure you get tickets for those, and then enjoy everything else. More home tours, neighborhood walking tours, mixology classes, presentations, the list goes on… 

The information presented in this podcast is for general knowledge and entertainment purposes only. All research that was done and opinions expressed are our own and not necessarily those of Modernism Week.

Oct 25, 202507:05
A classic worth saving! Kaptur Plaza.
Oct 20, 202507:51
All aboard! The signature Modernism Week experience!
Oct 13, 202507:36
A midcentury classic ahead of its time! Avanti!!

A midcentury classic ahead of its time! Avanti!!

Designed right here in Palm Springs in 1961. The Studebaker Avanti, a true midcentury classic, lives on in the hearts of collectors and enthusiasts!


Thank you to Gary Gand for the image of his gold 1963 Studebaker Avanti.


This episode of A Bert’s Eye View is brought to you by Modernism Week— the celebration of midcentury and modern architecture, design, and culture in sunny Palm Springs, California. Join the fun in October and February with tours, talks, parties, and more—tickets and details at ⁠modernismweek.com⁠.

The information presented in this podcast is for general knowledge and entertainment purposes only. All research that was done and opinions expressed are our own and not necessarily those of Modernism Week.

Oct 06, 202508:28
Escape to Island Paradise! Tiki culture!

Escape to Island Paradise! Tiki culture!

Live on island time in the desert as we explore Tiki culture today and its roots, and find why Tiki was and is so popular in Palm Springs.

This episode of A Bert’s Eye View is brought to you by Modernism Week— the celebration of midcentury and modern architecture, design, and culture in sunny Palm Springs, California. Join the fun in October and February with tours, talks, parties, and more—tickets and details at ⁠modernismweek.com⁠.

The information presented in this podcast is for general knowledge and entertainment purposes only. All research that was done and opinions expressed are our own and not necessarily those of Modernism Week.

Sep 29, 202508:42
A wealthy oilman gives back to his community! Thomas O'Donnell.

A wealthy oilman gives back to his community! Thomas O'Donnell.

Tom O'Donnell, oilman, visionary, and philanthropist, had a profound impact on Palm Springs' early history and growth.

To see the 2002 episode with Huell Howser touring the O'Donnell house, copy and paste this link into your browser:

https://blogs.chapman.edu/huell-howser-archives/2002/09/27/odonnel-house-palm-springs-week-36/


This episode of A Bert’s Eye View is brought to you by Modernism Week— the celebration of midcentury and modern architecture, design, and culture in sunny Palm Springs, California. Join the fun in October and February with tours, talks, parties, and more—tickets and details at ⁠modernismweek.com⁠.

The information presented in this podcast is for general knowledge and entertainment purposes only. All research that was done and opinions expressed are our own and not necessarily those of Modernism Week.

Sep 22, 202507:23
True or False? Rumors and Myths explored

True or False? Rumors and Myths explored

There are numerous rumors circulating about Palm Springs—everything from Marilyn Monroe's house to Thomas O'Donnell's crypt above the golf course. We're looking for the truth in this episode!



This episode of A Bert’s Eye View is brought to you by Modernism Week— the celebration of midcentury and modern architecture, design, and culture in sunny Palm Springs, California. Join the fun in October and February with tours, talks, parties, and more—tickets and details at ⁠modernismweek.com⁠.

The information presented in this podcast is for general knowledge and entertainment purposes only. All research that was done and opinions expressed are our own and not necessarily those of Modernism Week.

Sep 15, 202507:24
Everybody into the pool!

Everybody into the pool!

With one of the highest ratios of swimming pools to population, we take a look at the history and attractions of pools in Palm Springs.


This episode of A Bert’s Eye View is brought to you by Modernism Week— the celebration of midcentury and modern architecture, design, and culture in sunny Palm Springs, California. Join the fun in October and February with tours, talks, parties, and more—tickets and details at ⁠modernismweek.com⁠.

The information presented in this podcast is for general knowledge and entertainment purposes only. All research that was done and opinions expressed are our own and not necessarily those of Modernism Week.

Sep 08, 202506:55
Not just a museum - an architectural treasure! Palm Springs Art Museum.

Not just a museum - an architectural treasure! Palm Springs Art Museum.

The Palm Springs Art Museum opened in its present location and building almost 50 years ago. We delve into its history today.


This episode of A Bert’s Eye View is brought to you by Modernism Week— the celebration of midcentury and modern architecture, design, and culture in sunny Palm Springs, California. Join the fun in October and February with tours, talks, parties, and more—tickets and details at ⁠modernismweek.com⁠.

The information presented in this podcast is for general knowledge and entertainment purposes only. All research that was done and opinions expressed are our own and not necessarily those of Modernism Week.



Sep 01, 202508:30
You know you've seen it - but who is that lady in yellow?

You know you've seen it - but who is that lady in yellow?

Poolside Gossip, the 1970 photo that has come to symbolize Palm Springs and the desert lifestyle. This is the story of how that photo came to be!


This episode of A Bert’s Eye View is brought to you by Modernism Week— the celebration of midcentury and modern architecture, design, and culture in sunny Palm Springs, California. Join the fun in October and February with tours, talks, parties, and more—tickets and details at ⁠modernismweek.com⁠.

The information presented in this podcast is for general knowledge and entertainment purposes only. All research that was done and opinions expressed are our own and not necessarily those of Modernism Week.


Aug 25, 202506:59
Frank. In Palm Springs that one name says it all.

Frank. In Palm Springs that one name says it all.

It's been almost three decades since Ol' Blue Eyes passed away. But his presence here in the Valley is as strong as when he lived and entertained here. In this episode, I take a look at when Frank came to Palm Springs and his impact as a celebrity and philanthropist in the Valley.


This episode of A Bert’s Eye View is brought to you by Modernism Week— the celebration of midcentury and modern architecture, design, and culture in sunny Palm Springs, California. Join the fun in October and February with tours, talks, parties, and more—tickets and details at ⁠modernismweek.com⁠.

The information presented in this podcast is for general knowledge and entertainment purposes only. All research that was done and opinions expressed are our own and not necessarily those of Modernism Week.

Aug 18, 202505:39
Get out! Now! The little ones too! Section 14.

Get out! Now! The little ones too! Section 14.

This is an episode about resilience and calm in the face of adversity, and a part of Palm Springs' history that should not be forgotten. I interview Miss Thelma, a (nearly) lifelong Palm Springs resident who was impacted by the removal of homes on Section 14 - an unpleasant time in Palm Springs history.


This episode of A Bert’s Eye View is brought to you by Modernism Week— the celebration of midcentury and modern architecture, design, and culture in sunny Palm Springs, California. Join the fun in October and February with tours, talks, parties, and more—tickets and details at ⁠modernismweek.com⁠.

The information presented in this podcast is for general knowledge and entertainment purposes only. All research that was done and opinions expressed are our own and not necessarily those of Modernism Week.

Aug 11, 202506:07
The circus is in town!

The circus is in town!

For more than 50 years, the Desert Circus celebrated Palm Springs' love for horses and riding through the desert with an annual festival. Parades, car races, pageants, all to raise money for charity.

This episode of A Bert’s Eye View is brought to you by Modernism Week— the celebration of midcentury and modern architecture, design, and culture in sunny Palm Springs, California. Join the fun in October and February with tours, talks, parties, and more—tickets and details at modernismweek.com.

The information presented in this podcast is for general knowledge and entertainment purposes only. All research that was done and opinions expressed are our own and not necessarily those of Modernism Week.


Aug 04, 202506:31
Fire!!! How close are you to a station?

Fire!!! How close are you to a station?

The five fire stations in Palm Springs all have an interesting history - we take a look! From the very first Fire Hall on Palm Canyon to the most recent - an odd conversion of a structure in the south part of the city.


This episode of A Bert’s Eye View is brought to you by Modernism Week— the celebration of midcentury and modern architecture, design, and culture in sunny Palm Springs, California. Join the fun in October and February with tours, talks, parties, and more—tickets and details at modernismweek.com.

The information presented in this podcast is for general knowledge and entertainment purposes only. All research that was done and opinions expressed are our own and not necessarily those of Modernism Week.

Jul 28, 202505:51
Spanish Colonial Style Anyone? Just look around and see if you can spot some!

Spanish Colonial Style Anyone? Just look around and see if you can spot some!

Spanish Colonial Architecture becomes the predominant architectural influence in Palm Springs before Modernism! If you live in California, look around - shopping centers, homes, commercial buildings - the style's influence is everywhere!

This episode of A Bert’s Eye View is brought to you by Modernism Week— the celebration of midcentury and modern architecture, design, and culture in sunny Palm Springs, California. Join the fun in October and February with tours, talks, parties, and more—tickets and details at modernismweek.com.

The information presented in this podcast is for general knowledge and entertainment purposes only. All research that was done and opinions expressed are our own and not necessarily those of Modernism Week.

Jul 22, 202506:49
The Path From Portrait Painter to Architect

The Path From Portrait Painter to Architect

We look at William Charles Tanner, artist and designer of many of the early 20th-century Palm Springs buildings.


This episode of A Bert’s Eye View is brought to you by Modernism Week— the celebration of midcentury and modern architecture, design, and culture in sunny Palm Springs, California. Join the fun in October and February with tours, talks, parties, and more—tickets and details at ⁠modernismweek.com⁠.

The information presented in this podcast is for general knowledge and entertainment purposes only. All research that was done and opinions expressed are our own and not necessarily those of Modernism Week.

Jul 14, 202505:49