Sunnylands . . . the West Coast Camp David, located right here in Rancho Mirage in our Palm Springs Valley!
Walter and Leonore Annenberg created their midcentury modern residence in Rancho Mirage in the mid-1960s. Their architect, A. Quincy Jones, utilized his creative talents to infuse this residence with features that were near and dear to the Annenberg’s heart.
And just this year, a new addition to Sunnylands opened – the 17,000sf Sunnylands Center – a new building where visitors can learn about Walter and Leonore Annenberg and the role they played in serving their country, promoting education and the arts and their philanthropy.
The informative Sunnylands Center features multi-media interactive exhibits, an orientation film and selected artworks from the Sunnylands Collections.
And don’t forget the Sunnylands Gardens that can be enjoyed and explored – there is a 1.25 mile garden path to be strolled through on one’s own – or on Fridays during June and July, a one hour garden tour featuring design, sustainability, desert plants and bird watching is available. The tours begin at 7:15am and no reservations are required.
Visitors who have preregistered and paid for tours of the historic estate may begin their tours by meeting their guides at the Sunnylands Center.
The fabulous facility of Sunnylands Center & Gardens is open free to the public Thursdays through Sundays from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. September 1 to May 31; and from 7 a.m. to 2 p.m. June 1 to July 31. Sunnylands is closed in August. Parking is free.
Note that tours of the historic estate and residence are scheduled when there are no retreats on the property and are available by advance reservation at $35 per person. No children under 10 years of age are permitted on tours of the estate and house.
I know it is summer and it is hot here in Rancho Mirage, but a trip to Sunnylands is definitely worth putting on the calendar any time of year!
