Agua Caliente Cultural Museum | Palm Springs

The Agua Caliente Cultural Museum is a significant cultural institution in Palm Springs, California, dedicated to preserving and sharing the history and heritage of the Agua Caliente Band of Cahuilla Indians. It is an essential landmark for both the local community and visitors, offering a space to learn about Native American culture, art, and traditions, particularly those of the Agua Caliente people.

Museum Overview

Location: The museum is located at 140 N Indian Canyon Drive, Palm Springs, CA, right in the heart of downtown Palm Springs.

Hours of Operation: The museum is open Tuesday through Sunday from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM, and is closed on Mondays.

Admission:

Adults: $10

Seniors (65+) and Students (with ID): $5

Children (ages 6–17): $5

Children under 6: Free

Native Americans (with Tribal ID), Military/Veterans (with ID), and Local Residents (with valid ID): Free or discounted rates.

Exhibitions and Collections

The Agua Caliente Cultural Museum offers a variety of exhibitions that celebrate the culture, traditions, and art of the Agua Caliente Band of Cahuilla Indians. The museum’s exhibitions are housed across several spaces, ensuring a deep and multifaceted exploration of Indigenous life.

Permanent Gallery:
The museum's main exhibit, spanning nearly 10,000 square feet, is divided into five distinct exhibition areas. These areas provide visitors with insight into different aspects of Agua Caliente history and culture, focusing on the tribe’s connection to the land, spiritual practices, and artistic traditions. The first section, called Our Home, introduces the unique landscapes of the Agua Caliente Reservation, highlighting its desert ecosystems, oasis, and connection to the surrounding natural world.

Changing Exhibition Gallery:
The museum features a 2,200 square foot gallery that hosts rotating exhibitions, keeping the museum experience fresh and dynamic. These exhibitions often feature collaborations with prestigious institutions such as the Smithsonian’s National Museum of the American Indian and other cultural organizations. These exhibits focus on contemporary Native American art and the preservation of cultural traditions, showcasing both historical artifacts and modern works by Indigenous artists.

Art and Artifacts:
The museum offers a rich collection of artifacts, including traditional Native American tools, crafts, and textiles, as well as contemporary pieces by Native artists. It also displays items tied to the Agua Caliente people's history and spiritual practices, providing a comprehensive view of their culture and legacy.

Museum Store

The Museum Store offers a curated selection of Native American-made goods, supporting Indigenous artists and creators. Visitors can find:

Hand-beaded crafts

Tufa cast silver jewelry

Woven tapestries

Handmade Navajo brim hats made from reclaimed materials

The store is open during regular museum hours and can be visited without purchasing admission to the museum itself, making it a great stop for those interested in supporting Native American artisans.

Cultural Significance

The Agua Caliente Cultural Museum is built on land with deep cultural and spiritual significance to the Agua Caliente Band of Cahuilla Indians. The museum is part of a broader initiative to promote cultural preservation, education, and community engagement. It serves as a living tribute to the Agua Caliente people, allowing them to share their history, struggles, and triumphs with the world.

In addition to offering a space for visitors to engage with Native history, the museum also acts as a community hub where Native American traditions and teachings are celebrated, ensuring that future generations are able to continue their cultural practices.

Visitor Information

Parking: The museum has a dedicated parking lot for visitors, located off Andreas Road between N Indian Canyon Drive and Calle Encilia. There is also complimentary covered parking available at the nearby Agua Caliente Casino Palm Springs for museum visitors.

Public Transit: The museum is accessible via SunLine Transit lines 111, 30, and 14, making it convenient for visitors who use public transportation to reach the museum.

Conclusion

The Agua Caliente Cultural Museum is a vital institution that not only preserves the history and traditions of the Agua Caliente Band of Cahuilla Indians but also fosters a deeper understanding of Native American culture as a whole. It offers a rich educational experience for visitors of all ages, with its exhibitions providing both historical context and contemporary relevance. Whether you are a local resident, a visitor to Palm Springs, or an art enthusiast, the museum provides an invaluable opportunity to connect with the cultural heritage of one of the region’s most important Indigenous communities.