Our Rich History

It must be said that the Southern California Desert is absolutely plentiful in chic hotels, beautiful architecture, Hollywood legends… and a story to tell. Our story began in 1957. That was the year founders Lucille Ball and Desi Arnaz designed and built what was then the Desi Arnaz Western Hills Hotel and attracted a roster of A-list guests from the get-go. Designed as an exclusive winter getaway, the resort gave celebrities a chance to golf, play tennis, and lounge poolside in the glorious desert sun. You can follow in their footsteps today at what is now the Indian Wells Resort Hotel, which still channels the glitz and glamour of Palm Spring’s midcentury heyday.

Hollywood’s Desert Retreat

As Hollywood royalty began flocking to the area in the 1950’s and 60’s for the temperate weather and tucked-away feel, Indian Wells grew into a celebtity destination in it’s own right. Desi Arnaz was also one of the developers of the adjoining Indian Wells Country Club which earned the spot as the original home to the PGA’s Bob Hope Chrysler Classic. Today guests of the Indian Wells Resort Hotel are still entitled to exclusive playing privileges at the 36 hole private championship course.

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Celebrating a Storied Past

Though drastically renovated over the years, to bring discerning guests the modern amenities they expect from a once celebrity-owned retreat, the Indian Wells Resort Hotel features a vast collection of historic photos that line the walls and help tell our unique story. A kitschy, retro vibe still survives in the city today, and the Indian Wells Resort Hotel is proud to embrace the essence of how things used to be.

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