Palm Springs had a reputation for style and glamor. Hollywood big shots like Cary Grant, Frank Sinatra, and Elizabeth Taylor owned homes here. Think cool modern buildings set against epic desert views! It's perfect for unwinding with some golf, posh hotels, and a buzzing social scene! The El Mirador Tower, part of the El Mirador Hotel, captures that old-school charm. It holds a special place in Palm Springs's history. Keep reading to learn more about this iconic structure.

Location: N Indian Canyon Dr

Call: (760) 323-6511

Palm Springs Real Estate Market Watch

As of June 2024, Palm Springs homes sell after a median of 52 days on the market. The Palm Springs real estate market is always changing. Contact Geoffrey Moore for help buying and selling homes in the Palm Springs area.

5 Things To Know The El Mirador Tower in Palm Springs

1. The Beginning

The El Mirador Hotel in Palm Springs used to be the ultimate hot spot of the golden era. It attracted all the big shots - Hollywood celebs, political bigwigs, and other important people. They helped give Palm Springs its reputation for glam, romance, and carefree vibes. The hotel kicked things off in style on New Year's Eve in 1927 with a party that cost $15 a head (equivalent to $260 in today's money!).

2. Role of P.T. Stevens

P.T. Stevens had a big vision for El Mirador. In 1926, he teamed up with Alvah Hicks and some others to build it just up from Downtown Palm Springs. It had a tall bell tower inspired by the Renaissance. With the tower's view, you could see from miles away. They named it El Mirador, which means "the lookout" in Spanish.

Stevens moved from Colorado, got some land, and started the Whitewater Mutual Water Company in 1927. And it covered the Old Las Palmas area with Hicks. In 1929, Stevens made the desert's first 18-hole golf course at El Mirador. But it had to close not long after because of the Great Depression.

3. El Mirador in the Golden Era

Even in tough times, the El Mirador Hotel kept drawing in Hollywood celebrities, politicians, and big shots. People couldn't resist its upscale perks. The hotel offered top-notch dining, a vast 75-foot pool, tennis courts, and all sorts of fun stuff to do. Stars like Johnny Weissmuller and Esther Williams were constantly popping in for a visit.

4. It's Time as a Hospital

When the United States entered World War II, life changed across the nation. The El Mirador got a makeover and became the Torney General Hospital for injured soldiers. Luxury guest cottages turned into hospital rooms, and the expensive Coral Room became a hangout for nurses. After the war, Ray Ryan spent over $2 million sprucing up the hotel, which reopened in 1952. Celebs flocked back to the bigger, fancier El Mirador, soaking up its luxurious vibes like old times.

5. Transformation

After serving as a hotel for 21 years, El Mirador closed in 1973. It was to be a hospital once again. The Desert Healthcare District purchased and expanded the property to become the Desert Regional Medical Center. Sadly, a fire destroyed the El Mirador tower in 1989. However, the hospital rebuilt it based on the original plans. It reopened in 1991. Today, the Tower stands tall, showcasing Palm Springs's glamorous past and luxurious history.

When you are in Palm Springs, check out El Mirador Tower. It is one of the many unique places worth visiting.

If you are interested in the area's real estate, contact Geoffrey Moore. He is your local expert and can answer all your questions!

Thanks for visiting!

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