Indian Wells Resort Hotel, formerly the Desi Arnaz Western Hills Hotel, embodies the glamour of Palm Springs’ mid-century heyday. Built in 1957 by Lucille Ball and Desi Arnaz, it attracted numerous A-list celebrities seeking a luxurious desert escape. The resort offered golfing, tennis, and poolside relaxation under the California sun.
The allure of Indian Wells grew in the 1950s and 60s as Hollywood stars sought refuge in the area’s temperate climate and secluded atmosphere. Desi Arnaz also co-developed the adjacent Indian Wells Country Club, the original home of the PGA’s Bob Hope Chrysler Classic. Today, hotel guests enjoy exclusive access to this prestigious 36-hole championship course.
While modernized to meet contemporary expectations, the Indian Wells Resort Hotel preserves its unique history. A vast collection of vintage photographs adorns the walls, narrating the resort’s storied past. The hotel proudly embraces its retro charm, reflecting the enduring appeal of Palm Springs’ golden age.