Palm Springs hospitality didn’t start with midcentury modern hotels and Hollywood celebrities. Its story goes all the way back to the late 1800s — and it’s filled with fascinating characters, iconic businesses, unexpected twists and, of course, a little Hollywood gossip.

Join Steven Frank of the Palm Springs Historical Society for an entertaining look at how our hospitality industry evolved over the decades, from lodging and dining to retail and tourism, and the people who helped shape Palm Springs into the destination we know today.

Steven brings plenty of perspective to the conversation. A Palm Springs homeowner for more than 15 years, he has been aHistorical Societydocent for over five years and has personally led more than 1,500 guests. Before moving to Palm Springs, Steven spent much of his career in the travel industry, most recently serving as CEO of AAA in Minneapolis.

You’ll hear stories, discover some history you may not know, and see our hospitality industry through a whole new lens.

Come curious. Leave with a deeper appreciation for how Palm Springs became Palm Springs.

Registration is required. No walk-ins will be accepted.