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Another popular attraction is Sunnylands, the former Annenberg Estate. It is an incredible 200-acre estate “rich with historical significance," according to the city of Rancho Mirage, which declared Sunnylands an historic site in 1990. It was established by the late Ambassador Walter and Leonore Annenberg as a place of tranquility and hospitality where national and international leaders from a range of fields–beginning with the President of the United States–may convene to "promote world peace and facilitate international agreement." The property has been the vacation site of numerous celebrities and public officials. Sunnylands is to some extent regarded as the "Camp David of the West."
Designed by architect A. Quincy Jones, with interiors by William Haines and Ted Graber, the 25,000-square-foot midcentury modern home is located in the middle of landscaped grounds including a private golf course designed by the legendary Dick Wilson. The Annenbergs lived in the desert for approximately five months each year following Sunnylands' completion in 1966. It is here that they entertained U.S. presidents, royalty, international political figures and cultural and entertainment icons. Tickets for home tours may be purchased through the website. If you want to see the Sunnylands Center & Gardens, (without a home tour) you may do so with no reservation or fee on Thursdays through Sundays, 8:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. |
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