Escape to Palm Springs in mid-century modern style

Where desert sun, retro style, and poolside cocktails mingle
Drone shot of a home in Palm Springs.
Drone shot of a pool in Palm Springs.

Palm Springs has long been a haven for design lovers, sunshine seekers, and anyone chasing a good poolside cocktail. The desert city is also home to some of the best mid-century modern homes in the world. And, with Vacasa, you can actually stay at one of these iconic desert gems—open-floor plans, floor-to-ceiling windows, sunny poolscapes, and vintage flair included.

Why mid-century modern never goes out of style

Mid-century modern isn’t just a trend—it’s a vibe. Born from the post-war optimism of the 1950s and ’60s, this design movement embraced open spaces, indoor-outdoor flow, and furnishings that were both functional and sculptural. In Palm Springs, it's not a throwback—it’s today’s favorite stay.

You’re not simply staying in a vacation home, you're stepping back into time where:

  • Walls of glass showcase views of the mountains and sky
  • Palm trees give ample shading for the in-ground poolscape
  • Eames loungers and terrazzo floors feel right at home

Hot tip: Bring a Polaroid camera or film for your phone. These homes were made for soft desert light and analog moments.

What makes these homes different from anywhere else

It’s one thing to see a mid-century modern home. It’s another to wake up in one. Here’s what sets them apart:

  • Original architecture from legends like William Krisel, Donald Wexler, and Hugh Kaptur.
  • Statement pools framed by lounge chairs, citrus trees, and privacy hedges.
  • Instagrammable interiors with vintage flair—think sunken living rooms, Malm fireplaces, and color-blocked walls.
  • Desert landscaping that's both sustainable and stunning.

Hot tip: Want extra retro charm? Look for a rental with a vintage bar cart stocked for martinis. Some homes even offer record players and curated vinyl collections.

What to do when you’re not lounging by the pool

There’s more to Palm Springs than pool floats and poolside margaritas (though we fully support both). Here’s how to get inspired during your stay:

  • Join a mid-century modern tour and explore iconic neighborhoods like Deepwell, Indian Canyons, and Twin Palms.
  • Shop the Uptown Design District, where vintage boutiques and galleries line Palm Canyon Drive.
  • Dine like a Rat Pack member at classic joints like Melvyn’s or sip craft cocktails under the stars at Bootlegger Tiki.
  • Explore the desert on foot, whether you’re hiking Indian Canyons or catching golden hour at Joshua Tree (just an hour away).

Hot tip: Visit in February for Modernism Week—an 11-day celebration of architecture, design, and desert glam.

Where to stay

Mid-century modern neighborhoods in Palm Springs

You’ll find most mid-century modern homes concentrated in specific Palm Springs neighborhoods, such as:

Racquet Club Garden Villas pool.
Racquet Club Estates

Home to one of the largest collections of mid-century modern homes in Palm Springs, with lush lots, glamorous outdoor spaces, and authentic Hollywood charm, all close to downtown.

Mid Century Modern living space in Palm Springs.
Vista Las Palmas

Nestled against the San Jacinto Mountains, Vista Las Palmas boasts some of the most glamorous mid-century homes in Palm Springs. If you’re dreaming of a photo-worthy stay, this is your neighborhood.

The backyard of a family friendly vacation rental in Palm Springs, California with a pool.
Twin Palms

Designed by architect William Krisel in the 1950s, this neighborhood is the heart of Palm Springs modernism. Expect clean lines, vibrant landscaping, and classic post-and-beam construction—plus you're just minutes from downtown.

The living area of a Palm Springs, CA rental with modern design.
Deepwell Estates

Spacious lots and vintage Hollywood history? Yes, please. Deepwell offers privacy and luxury, with homes that once hosted stars like Jerry Lewis and Elizabeth Taylor.

Mid-century vacation homes in Palm Springs

Pour yourself a martini, cue the Sinatra, and pack up that vintage suitcase. Here are some of our most retro rentals.

The interior living area of a modern home in Palm Springs.
Iconic Mid-Century Modern Escape - 4729

6 guests | 3 bed | 2 bath | Dog-friendly

This breathtaking 1950s William Krisel masterpiece offers a private pool, spa, polished concrete floors, and stunning mountain vistas through soaring clerestory windows.

Tour this home >

The interior of a modern vacation rental in Palm Springs.
The Gala House - 4606

10 guests | 5 bed | 4 bath

This stunning mid-century modern estate features a sprawling private poolscape, rejuvenating hot tub, gourmet kitchen, and cozy fireplace surrounded by palm trees and mountain views.

The pool area of a vacation rental in Palm Springs.
Good Vibrations - 966

6 guests | 3 bed | 3 bath | Dog-friendly

Unwind at this vibrant Deepwell retreat featuring a private pool, spa, grill, and spectacular San Jacinto Mountain views surrounded by lush landscaping and complete privacy.

The back pool area of a vacation rental in Palm Springs, CA.
The Arrow of Twin Palms - Midcentury Alexander - 3505

8 guests | 4 bed | 3 bath

This sophisticated 1957 Palm Springs Alexander home comes with a private pool, spa, firepit, and gas grill in prestigious Twin Palms, steps from downtown's trendy restaurants and shops.

Tour this home >

The back area of a large rental in Palm Springs, CA.
Palm Springs Perfection

12 guests | 7 bed | 6.5 bath | Dog-friendly

Welcome to walls and walls of windows at this luxury estate, along with a sparkling saline pool, spa, stone fireplace, stunning mountain views, and plenty of room to roam.

The dining area of a modern home in Palm Springs.
Twin Palms Modern

6 guests | 3 bed | 4 bath | Dog-friendly

This stylish mid-century modern retreat features stunning mountain views, a large swimming pool, spa, and sun-filled spaces near downtown Palm Springs.

The pool area at a vacation rental in California.
Palm Springs Midcentury Alexander - 762

6 guests | 3 bed | 2 bath | Dog-friendly

This William Krisel-designed Alexander treats you to a heated pool, expansive lawn, and mid-century modern luxury with stunning indoor-outdoor living.

A modern living area in Palm Springs.
Mid Century Meiselman w/ Private Pool & Spa - 3971

6 guests | 3 bed | 2 bath | Dog-friendly

Check into a mid-century modern Meiselman with a private backyard oasis, LED-lit saltwater pool, elevated spa, gas firepit, and stunning mountain views.

The pool area at a vacation rental in California.
The Monroe Hideaway - 467

8 guests | 3 bed | 2 bath

Indulge in this designer oasis at Indian Canyons Golf Resort, featuring a private pool, spa, expansive 1,500-square-foot patio, and breathtaking mountain and golf course views just minutes from downtown Palm Springs dining and entertainment.


Ready to step into your vintage Palm Springs postcard?

If you're heading to the Coachella Valley, skip the beige hotel room and make yourself at home in a mid-century modern vacation rental, where every moment brims with California cool.


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