Sunnylands

Sunnylands, the 200-acre former estate of publishing magnate and UK ambassador Walter Annenberg and his wife Lenore, offers a glimpse into the lives of the ultra-rich and connected. The glass-walled 25,000-square-foot home of the couple is a mid-century modern masterpiece that houses a significant art collection.

Though many of Annenberg's original works are now on display in museums, excellent replicas give you a sense of how dizzyingly fabulous they are—you'll find works by Monet, Picasso, Van Gogh, and other masters. Sunnylands' extensive gardens, too, reflect the artistic style, with many landscaped in sweeping bands of color to evoke Impressionist art. The garden is also home to many local and migratory bird species; knowledgeable birders lead a free bird walk once a week (Fridays at 8:45 a.m., October - May).

While you can stroll through the 1.25 miles of garden paths for no charge, you must sign up well in advance to purchase a ticket for a guided tour of the house. In addition to the artworks, you can peruse the dozens of photographs displayed on the walls—look for familiar faces of presidents, celebrities, and royalty in many of them, a glimpse into the lofty social circles that the Annenbergs inhabited. A museum, a theatre, and an indoor/outdoor cafe with stunning views of the San Jacinto Mountains are also housed in striking glass buildings.

• Google Rating: 4.7/5
• Website: https://sunnylands.org/
• Opening Hours: Wed - Sun 8:30 AM - 4:00 PM
• Entrance Fee: 90-minute Historic House Tour $45 per person
• Address: 37977 Bob Hope Dr, Rancho Mirage, CA 92270