Palm Springs Walk of Stars | Palm Springs

The Palm Springs Walk of Stars is a prominent landmark and cultural institution in Palm Springs, California, which honors individuals who have significantly contributed to the community, culture, and various fields, such as entertainment, politics, philanthropy, and more. It is often considered one of the most famous Walk of Fame-style installations in the United States, attracting visitors from all over the world.

History and Origin

Established: The Palm Springs Walk of Stars was founded in 1992 by local residents Gerhard Frenzel and Barbara Foster-Henderson. The goal was to create a permanent outdoor display that would celebrate and honor Palm Springs' unique cultural and artistic history. The Walk began with the installation of its first star, and since then, hundreds of stars have been added, making it a celebrated part of the city's fabric.

First Star: The very first star on the Walk was awarded to Frank Sinatra, reflecting the significant cultural impact of Hollywood celebrities who frequented or had ties to Palm Springs, particularly during the 1950s and 1960s.

Location

The Palm Springs Walk of Stars spans Palm Canyon Drive, the main thoroughfare in downtown Palm Springs, and is visible in several other nearby streets, including Tahquitz Canyon Way, La Plaza Court, and Museum Drive. The stars are embedded into the sidewalk, allowing pedestrians to walk along the same paths as the honored individuals.

Honorees and Categories

The Walk of Stars celebrates a wide array of people from different backgrounds, with a significant emphasis on celebrities, but also includes politicians, philanthropists, community leaders, activists, and other influential figures in various fields. Some categories of honorees include:

Film and Television: Many stars in the Walk of Stars are from the entertainment industry. Notable honorees include actors, directors, musicians, and producers who have ties to Palm Springs or the greater Southern California region.

Some of the most famous entertainment figures with stars on the Walk include:

Frank Sinatra

Bob Hope

Lucille Ball

Mary Bono

Carol Channing

Dionne Warwick

Music: Palm Springs has long been associated with music, particularly during the Rat Pack era and the 1960s. Several music legends have been recognized:

Tony Bennett

Diana Ross

Clint Eastwood

Nat King Cole

Civic and Political Leaders: Many individuals who have made significant contributions to the political or social landscape of Palm Springs and beyond have been honored, such as:

Mary Bono (Former U.S. Congresswoman)

Frances H. Theobald (Palm Springs’ first female mayor)

Dr. Ruth Westheimer (Sexuality expert and activist)

Humanitarians and Activists: Other honorees include those whose work in civil rights, activism, and humanitarian efforts has had an impact, including:

Leslie Jordan (actor, activist)

Billy Porter (actor, singer, LGBTQ+ advocate)

Elinor Harriot (community leader, philanthropist)

Notable Stars and Events

Over the years, several famous names have become synonymous with Palm Springs, and their stars on the Walk are major attractions for both locals and tourists:

Frank Sinatra: Often regarded as the most iconic figure connected to Palm Springs, Sinatra was a key figure in bringing celebrity culture to the desert city. His star on the Walk is one of the most visited.

Dionne Warwick: The legendary singer, who performed frequently in Palm Springs, received her star in 2021, recognizing her contributions to music and charity.

Leslie Jordan: The actor and comedian, known for his roles in "Will & Grace" and his advocacy for LGBTQ+ rights, was posthumously honored with a star in 2023, paying tribute to his contributions to both entertainment and the LGBTQ+ community.

Carol Channing: The legendary Broadway actress was honored for her contributions to musical theater, and her star remains a significant marker of Palm Springs' artistic history.

Recent Inductions

Mary Bono (2025): In March 2025, Mary Bono, former U.S. Congresswoman and wife of the late Sonny Bono, was awarded her star for her years of service to the community, advocacy, and humanitarian work. This induction highlighted her lasting impact in both politics and social issues.

Leslie Jordan (2023): The star for Leslie Jordan was added posthumously in 2023, paying tribute to his remarkable career in entertainment and his advocacy for the LGBTQ+ community.

Visiting the Walk of Stars

Opening Hours: The Walk of Stars is open 24/7, as the stars are embedded in the sidewalks, and visitors can come by at any time. There are no entry fees or charges to visit the Walk.

Strolling: The best way to enjoy the Walk of Stars is to take a self-guided tour by walking down Palm Canyon Drive and stopping at each star along the way. Each star has an engraved plaque with the name of the honoree and often a short description of their contributions.

Mobile App: The Palm Springs Walk of Stars has its own mobile app, allowing visitors to get detailed information about the stars, their history, and their contributions. The app also provides an interactive map to help users find stars of interest.

Nearby Attractions: Visitors can combine a visit to the Walk of Stars with other nearby attractions, such as:

The Palm Springs Art Museum: Located nearby, this museum is known for its extensive collection of art.

The Palm Springs Aerial Tramway: Offering breathtaking views of the desert landscape, this tramway is a short drive from the Walk of Stars.

The Desert Regional Medical Center’s “Walk of Fame”: An extension of the Walk of Stars, also honoring notable individuals in various fields.

Significance and Cultural Impact

The Palm Springs Walk of Stars has become more than just an outdoor tribute to famous individuals. It represents the history, diversity, and influence of Palm Springs as a cultural hub in the United States, particularly in the realms of entertainment and civic life.

The economic impact of the Walk is substantial, attracting tourists and art lovers who want to learn about the history of the desert oasis and the people who helped shape it. It has also helped preserve Palm Springs' mid-century modern legacy, showcasing the city's ties to Hollywood and its role as a refuge for artists, musicians, and entertainers during the 20th century.

Conclusion

The Palm Springs Walk of Stars stands as a unique and historical tribute to the individuals whose work has left an indelible mark on the city and the world. Whether you're a longtime resident or a first-time visitor, the Walk of Stars offers an engaging, self-guided journey through Palm Springs' rich cultural and artistic heritage.