Another great find in the Palm Springs area – Sunnylands! The 200-acre estate includes Walter and Leonore Annenberg’s winter home, golf course, visitor center and gardens. The Annenbergs were known for creating a publishing/ media empire and for their civic engagement. You may have heard their name in association with their extraordinarry philanthropy (“sponsored by the Annenberg Trust”). Both served as U.S. ambassadors. They also hosted world leaders at the estate as they sought to “address serious issues facing the nation and the world community.” (from http://sunnylands.org/page/13/about)

The visitor center and immediate grounds are free and open to the public (check the website for hours and directions). The center includes an informative film on the Annenbergs and several smaller videos on aspects of the property (i.e. renovation, sustainability). The building itself is impressive and the grounds are an example of how to have a beautiful garden in the desert.

The home, adjacent retreat buildings and golf course property stand next to to the visitor center. The 90-minute tour sells out so you’ll want to check the website well ahead of your visit for tickets. It’s an eclectic home. The structure itself is mid-century modern with a Mexican twist. The furnishings are more Hollywood style. The art (some originals but many digital reproductions of originals donated to the Metropolitan Museum of Art) collection ranges from Renoir, Monet, Van Gogh and others, all hung in ornate gold frames. The views from the grounds are impressive. The history of its visitors is fascinating. Check out the lists of “who slept here”. View the Christmas cards from politicians and royalty. And be sure to check out the personalized golf balls recovered when the course lakes were drained to find out who played here.

Find out more at: http://sunnylands.org/