Located in the heart of Palm Springs, the Agua Caliente Cultural Museum is a landmark for those who wish to learn about the history and culture of the Native Americans of the Coachella Valley region.The museum, founded in 1991, is dedicated to preserving and celebrating the contemporary arts and society of the Cahuilla, the tribe that originated in the Palm Springs area. Through its collections and educational programs, the museum offers visitors the opportunity to learn about the history and traditions of the tribe and the cultures of Native American nations from across the country.The heart of the museum is the Tahquitz Canyon Archaeological Collection, which contains more than 50,000 artifacts discovered during one of the largest excavation projects in California. Among these artifacts are elegant cooking pots, pendants, bone tools, and pipes that tell the story of tribal life in the Coachella Valley.Also among the museum’s attractions are more than 400 baskets woven by the Cahuilla tribe and neighboring tribes. These baskets are highly prized by designers and artisans for their intricate weave and patterns. In addition, temporary exhibits provide another opportunity to learn about the Cahuilla tribe and the cultures of Native American nations.The museum is a lively place that encourages discussion and interaction. You can participate in lectures, canyon hikes and hands-on workshops. In addition, there is an annual film festival featuring the world’s best indigenous filmmaking.The Agua Caliente Cultural Museum is located in downtown Palm Springs, on Palm Canyon Drive, near cafes and restaurants. You may want to check the seasonal opening hours on the museum’s website.
