Sunnylands: Palm Springs' Iconic 'Camp David of the West' Estate and Gardens
Palm Springs has long been renowned as a celebrity playground, and Sunnylands perfectly embodies this legacy. This was the private retreat of publishing magnate, diplomat, and philanthropist Walter Annenberg and his wife, Leonore. The distinctive pink-roofed mansion anchors a sprawling 200-acre estate featuring luxurious guest quarters, charming cottages, expansive entertaining areas, and a private golf course.
Like many mid-century elites, the Annenbergs selected Rancho Mirage in greater Palm Springs for their modernist winter home. Dubbed the "Camp David of the West," Sunnylands hosted eight U.S. presidents, royalty, world leaders, and Hollywood icons, including the Shah of Iran, Queen Elizabeth II, Bing Crosby, Truman Capote, and Barack Obama. Frank Sinatra wed Barbara Marx here, and the Reagans celebrated nearly two decades of New Year's Eve visits.
The estate's art-filled main residence, a 1966 mid-century modern masterpiece by architect A. Quincy Jones, is accessible only via 90-minute guided tours—book online well in advance. No reservations are needed for the exhibits and documentary at the striking visitor center or to wander the magnificent, sustainably designed gardens, inspired by Impressionist masterpieces. During the Annenbergs' lifetimes (Walter passed in 2002, Leonore in 2009), their vast collection—including works by Picasso, Van Gogh, Andrew Wyeth, and Monet—was displayed here. Most pieces were later donated to the Metropolitan Museum of Art in the early 2000s.
Tickets for the Historic House Tour ($48, children under 10 not permitted) and Birding on the Estate ($38) release at 9 a.m. on the 15th of the prior month and sell out fast. The 45-minute Open-Air Experience shuttle tour of the grounds and golf course (September–April, $21) is available first-come, first-served at the visitor center (credit cards only). Note: Neither the Birding nor Open-Air tours include house access.
