Rancho Mirage, CA

One of the most peaceful and beautiful locations in the Coachella Valley is the Sunnylands Center & Gardens.  

The Gardens opened to the public in 2012 and were made possible through the generosity of Walter and Leonore Annenberg.  They funded the initial creation and ensured its sustainability through a huge endowment. Entrance to the Gardens is free, and a large parking lot accommodates visitors. 

As a result of the Annenberg’s vision, the nine-acre garden site has a wide range of arid tolerant plants from North and South America, Africa and the Mediterranean — 70 species in all. 

The Gardens attract a steady flow of visitors but never seem crowded. There is a helpful map of the grounds, available for free as you enter.

The main entrance leads to a magnificent central building which contains a visitor welcoming Center, multi-media information stations, seasonal exhibitions, a cafe and a gift shop.

The Gardens also hosts events, educational programs and wellness activities.

The current outdoor exhibit within the Gardens is The Living Pyramid, part of the Desert X art display. 

The current indoor exhibition is Variations to a Theme: William Haines at Sunnylands.    Mr. Haines designed  the custom-built furniture and interior decorations for the historic midcentury modern home of the Annenbergs that was completed in 1966.

Guided tours of the 25,000 square foot Annenberg mansion — designed by renowned architect A. Quincy Jones — are available for an admission fee. 

Sunnylands is at 37977 Bob Hope Drive, Rancho Mirage.   More information about the Annenbergs, the history of the Gardens and its exhibitions and activities can be found at: https://sunnylands.org/visit-the-gardens/