Sunnylands Center & Gardens | Palm Springs

Sunnylands Center & Gardens is a distinctive cultural and historic site located in Rancho Mirage, California. It is part of the Sunnylands Estate, once the winter residence of Walter and Leonore Annenberg, philanthropists and former U.S. ambassadors to the United Kingdom. The estate has been transformed into a public venue that serves as a hub for education, culture, and reflection, offering visitors an enriching experience that blends natural beauty, architecture, history, and art.

History of Sunnylands

Sunnylands was originally built in the early 1960s as the winter home of Walter and Leonore Annenberg. The couple were prominent figures in American society, with Walter serving as U.S. Ambassador to the United Kingdom and Leonore being an influential philanthropist. The home, designed by architect A. Quincy Jones, is set within 200 acres of desert landscape and features mid-century modern architecture. It became renowned as a gathering place for world leaders, celebrities, and other notable figures, including U.S. Presidents, business magnates, and international dignitaries. Sunnylands is particularly famous for hosting high-profile summits, including meetings between President Richard Nixon and Mao Zedong in 1972, and later summits between U.S. Presidents and foreign leaders.

In 2012, the Annenberg Foundation opened Sunnylands to the public, transforming it into a center for culture, leadership, and arts, while preserving its historical significance.

Gardens and Grounds

The Sunnylands Gardens are a key feature of the estate, covering nine acres and showcasing a variety of arid-adapted plants from around the world. The gardens were designed by James Burnett, and they reflect a fusion of desert aesthetics with classical European and Mediterranean garden design elements. The gardens are built around the concept of peaceful reflection and natural beauty, with plants from places like North and South America, Africa, and the Mediterranean.

Wildflower Field: This seasonal bloom field showcases native wildflowers during the spring months.

Labyrinth: A peaceful walking labyrinth in the gardens offers visitors a quiet space for contemplation.

Walking Paths: A total of 1.25 miles of walking paths meander through the gardens, with access to scenic overlooks and shaded areas, allowing visitors to fully immerse in the tranquil environment.

The landscaping design also integrates elements from Impressionist art, especially inspired by the works of Vincent van Gogh, who often painted desert landscapes and vibrant flowers, creating a seamless connection between nature and art.

Sunnylands Center

The Sunnylands Center is a 17,000-square-foot facility designed by the architectural firm Frederick Fisher & Partners. The Center serves as the interpretive heart of the estate, offering educational programs, exhibitions, and special events. The building was completed in 2011 and reflects a modern, sustainable design while also complementing the mid-century modern aesthetic of the original estate. Inside the Center, visitors will find:

Exhibits: The Center hosts rotating exhibitions that often explore art, culture, and the history of the Annenbergs at Sunnylands. Recent exhibits have included William Haines and the interior design of the estate, among others.

Film: A 20-minute film titled A Place Called Sunnylands tells the history of the estate, focusing on its role as a diplomatic retreat, and its connection to the Annenbergs.

Multimedia Kiosks: These provide more in-depth historical and personal stories about the Annenbergs, their philanthropic efforts, and their impact on American culture.

Café: The Sunnylands Café serves light refreshments, snacks, sandwiches, and beverages. It provides a relaxing atmosphere with views of the gardens.

Gift Shop: The gift shop features a curated selection of items that reflect the estate’s artistic and historical themes, including books, art prints, and garden-inspired products.

House Tours

The Sunnylands House is available for guided tours by reservation. Visitors can experience the opulent design of the house, which combines modernist architecture with elements of the Hollywood Regency style, reflecting the Annenbergs’ personal taste and high-profile social gatherings. The interior of the house features a stunning collection of artwork, antique furniture, and artifacts, many of which were personally selected by the Annenbergs. The tours offer fascinating insight into the history of the house, its role in global diplomacy, and the Annenbergs' vision for the estate.

Art Collection: The house features a significant art collection, including works by famous artists such as Pablo Picasso and Marc Chagall.

Architectural Design: The design of the house blends open spaces with minimalist furniture, maximizing views of the surrounding desert landscape.

Sustainability Efforts

Sunnylands is committed to environmental sustainability, as evidenced by several green initiatives:

Solar Energy: The estate includes a solar field with over 800 solar panels, providing a significant portion of the property’s energy needs.

Geothermal Systems: An underground geothermal system helps manage the heating and cooling of the estate.

Water Conservation: Given the desert location, water conservation is a key aspect of the estate’s landscaping. The gardens use low-water irrigation systems and sustainable landscaping techniques to reduce water usage.

LEED Gold Certification: The Sunnylands Center has achieved a LEED Gold certification, demonstrating its commitment to sustainable design and operation.

Public Programs and Events

In addition to its core offerings, Sunnylands hosts various public programs, including educational workshops, wellness events, and special gatherings. The estate also serves as a location for events related to global diplomacy, community engagement, and the arts.

Symposiums and Conferences: The estate has been used to host academic and cultural symposiums, bringing together thought leaders from various fields to discuss pressing global issues.

Public Tours and Events: The estate regularly organizes special tours, garden talks, and cultural events for the public, offering opportunities to engage with the history and mission of Sunnylands.

Visitor Information

Location:
37977 Bob Hope Drive, Rancho Mirage, CA 92270
The estate is situated in the Coachella Valley, in the heart of California’s desert region.

Hours:
Wednesday to Sunday: 8:30 AM – 4:00 PM
Closed on Mondays, Tuesdays, and major holidays like Thanksgiving and Christmas.

Admission:
Free for the gardens and visitor center, but advance reservations are required for guided house tours.

Conclusion

Sunnylands Center & Gardens offers a unique blend of history, nature, and art. It is a place where visitors can reflect on the legacy of the Annenbergs, enjoy the beauty of desert landscapes, and learn about diplomacy and culture in a relaxed yet enriching environment. Whether you're exploring the lush gardens, enjoying the exhibits, or taking a guided tour of the historic house, Sunnylands provides a memorable and educational experience for all visitors.