Discovering the Wonders of the Agua Caliente Cultural Museum

One of the spectacular additions to Palm Springs' skyline is the Agua Caliente Cultural Museum. The basket-weave-like architecture hugs the downtown space as if it has always been there. Recently, on a moonlit night, the public was invited, by reservation, to explore the museum and the romantic Oasis Trail along the mineral springs-fed river.

Arrival at the Agua Caliente Cultural Museum

Parking is available at the rear of the Agua Caliente Cultural Museum. As you wind your way down the path to the front of the building, you pass plants that are native to the area. These plants are used by the tribe for food and medicinal purposes. When I returned later in the evening, the path felt magical. The plants at the bottom were lit, casting their ghostly shadows on the walkway.

Buffet at Event at the Agua Caliente Cultural Museum in Palm Springs Photo by Don Metzner

A Lovely Buffet of Food Prepared from Local Harvests

The buffet table was laden with authentic tribal cuisine. Local dates are currently being harvested throughout the Coachella Valley and made into delectable canapés. The mesquite bars often appear at the tribe's functions. I’m always fascinated by their texture, which is similar to cornbread. They are earthy yet sweet, with hints of cinnamon and toasted coconut. My favorite was the Prickly Pear lemonade; okay, I had more than one glass.

Entrance of the Agua Caliente Cultural Museum Photo by Don Metzner

Entering the Museum

Upon entering the museum, the grand entrance hall stops you in your tracks. Its openness is highlighted by the logo on the floor, making it the perfect place to meet friends. If they show up late, head to the beautiful gift shop. This unique shop features items created by members of various tribes in the United States.

It’s a lovely place to see outstanding craftsmanship. Fortunately, the talents of tribes are being taught to the younger generation. The items range from keychains to jewelry and exquisite pottery. It is the perfect place to find a unique gift for someone who has everything.

The Story of How the Agua Caliente Came to Coachella Valley

Walk to the left and line up for the next showing in the 360-degree theatre. When your time arrives, you are ushered into the room with benches to see the animated film. Here, you will learn about the tribe's perspective, how they evolved on Earth, and their journey to the wonderful Coachella Valley.

Exhibit Space at the Agua Caliente Cultural Museum Photo by Don Metzer

Exit the Theatre and Enter the Exhibit Hall

Along the curved wall are replicas of the canyons located in Palm Springs. Happily, the Agua Caliente Tribe opens and maintains these trails so everyone can enjoy them. These replicas reveal how some are filled with ancient palm trees, others rocky coves, and still others have waterfalls.

There is so much to digest here. The glass cases display gorgeous pottery and baskets that are both utilitarian and beautiful. Be sure to see the room filled with artifacts discovered during the building of the museum. These artifacts date back more than 8,000 years.

Gallery: A Separate Room

Be sure to stop into this spacious area, which shares various phases of the tribe’s history in a narrative form. Sometimes it displays photos of the tribal members in day-to-day life.

On the Way to the Oasis Trail Through the Building

Down the hallway, you might see adults and children learning how to perfect a craft project. Other times, these rooms are filled with people solving issues or planning for the future.

The Agua Caliente Cultural Museum Oasis Trail Photo by Kathy Condon

Oasis Trail

Since this was a special evening event, we were handed headphones. These would amplify the ranger’s words as we snaked our way down the path. They worked well, and even though I often ended up at the end of the line—okay, I will admit it, I got engrossed in the beauty—I could still hear the narration clearly.

This particular ranger was an expert on the native plants. He did an outstanding job of explaining how and why the tribe used the plants, many of which are part of their daily diet. However, many more are used for medicinal purposes.

View of Oasis Trail at Agua Caliente Cultural Museum Photo by Don Metzner

All along the path, there is a crystal-clear river, fed by the underground mineral springs. Giant palm trees adorn the walkway, and quarried rock makes it feel like you are in one of the nearby canyons.

My only wish was that the trail was longer. The unobtrusive lighting, natural plants, and the quiet of the space truly make you slow down. It allows you to realize how fortunate we are, for we can come here without any cost during the day and up to 7:00 p.m.

Yes, it was a special evening. I learned more even though I had been to the museum before. It will be easy to return repeatedly. This museum is far from being stagnant; it keeps revealing its archive treasures and presents them in a way that enlightens you about the fortitude, perseverance, and pride of their culture.

To stay updated on their lectures and special events, I recommend signing up for their newsletter, available on their homepage here.

Kathy Condon Travel Writer and Award-winning Author

Kathy Condon is a travel writer and award-winning author. Her niche is luxury experiences, hidden delights, and communities living in the shadows of larger cities. Sign up for her new blogs at www.PalmSpringsInsiderGuide.com or contact her at kathy@kathycondon.net or 760-902-3094.