See Rat Pack-era homes, then stop for a martini in Palm Springs
90 minutes
Explore 1960s Palm Springs on an exterior architecture tour focused on Desert Modern design and Rat Pack-era history. Then stop at Melvyn's for a martini and learn what made the drink a signature of the era.
Participants must be at least 21 years old. Melvyn's has a dress code: no T-shirts or tank tops. No pets are allowed on the tour.
Refund if you cancel with 48 hours or more notice. Full refund if the operator cancels due to weather or other unforeseen circumstances. No-shows will be charged the full price.
You must be at least 21 years old to join the tour.
Melvyn's has a dress code: no T-shirts or tank tops. A collared short-sleeve shirt is fine.
No. Pets aren’t allowed on the tour.
Tours begin at the Melvyn's at the Ingleside Inn ** 200 West Ramon, Palm Springs, CA 92264
Kurt clearly knows his stuff when it comes to mid-century modern architecture in Palm Springs. Reviewers consistently praise his deep knowledge of design, history, and the fascinating stories behind the homes and their famous former residents. The tours feel intimate and personal thanks to small group sizes in his van, with many guests appreciating the insider access to private homes and stunning interiors. He's described as charismatic, enthusiastic, and entertaining, making what could be a dry architectural lecture into an engaging experience that appeals to both design professionals and casual enthusiasts. The tours come in different varieties including the Essential tour, Interiors tour, and a fun Martini and Mod option that weaves in cocktail history with the architecture. Most guests found the pacing perfect at around 90 minutes, though one visitor felt it was a bit rushed with information overload and too many quick stops. That seems to be the exception though. Whether you're looking at stunning bathrooms, learning about the Rat Pack, or discovering architectural details you'd normally miss, Kurt creates a memorable experience that guests often call the highlight of their Palm Springs visit.
We had an absolutely fantastic tour with Kurt from Mod Squad Architecture Tours—easily one of the highlights of our time in Palm Springs. His knowledge of mid-century modern architecture is incredibly deep, but what makes the experience special is how engaging and approachable he is; every stop felt like a story rather than a lecture. Kurt struck the perfect balance of history, design insight, and fun, and we came away seeing Palm Springs through a completely new lens. If you have even a passing interest in architecture or design, this tour is a must-do.
Amy Kumpel
March 21, 2026
We had an absolutely fantastic tour with Kurt from Mod Squad Architecture Tours—easily one of the highlights of our time in Palm Springs. His knowledge of mid-century modern architecture is incredibly deep, but what makes the experience special is how engaging and approachable he is; every stop felt like a story rather than a lecture. Kurt struck the perfect balance of history, design insight, and fun, and we came away seeing Palm Springs through a completely new lens. If you have even a passing interest in architecture or design, this tour is a must-do.
Amy Kumpel
March 21, 2026