Agua Caliente Cultural Museum, Palm Springs

In 2020, the Agua Caliente Band of Cahuilla Indians opened their new cultural center at the corner of Tahquitz Canyon Way and S. Indian Canyon Drive. The site features the Agua Caliente Hot Mineral Spring, as well as a spa and bathhouse. There are gardens, an oasis trail, and exhibits that celebrate native artforms like basket weaving and pottery.

The museum was the first Native American museum to be named a Smithsonian Institute Affiliate. Specifically about and created by the Cahuilla people of the Coachella Valley, the museum's exhibits talk about essential aspects of daily life, like a look at how cattle and horses have long been an important source of livelihood for them. The exhibit "Dream of the Blue Frog" explores the lore of the Hot Spring. There are many examples of their artwork, including pottery like water storage ollas, containers, and pots.

Why You Should Visit:
To learn about the native culture, and to get an insight into how early inhabitants were able to live in this desert.

Tip:
Check out the lovely garden in back, which relates to many plants used by the area's early, tribal residents, and consider visiting the nearby Indian Canyons afterwards.