Palm Springs International Airport (PSP)

Palm Springs International Airport showcases one of America's finest examples of desert modernist architecture, designed by renowned architect Donald Wexler and completed in 1966. The terminal represents Wexler's masterpiece of climate-responsive design, featuring his signature folded plate roof construction, extensive use of glass, and seamless integration with the Coachella Valley's dramatic landscape. Now listed on the National Register of Historic Places, the X-shaped terminal layout creates distinctive open-air walkways that allow passengers to experience the desert's sunny climate throughout their journey, from check-in to boarding.

The terminal's most striking feature centers on the proscenium-like main lobby, where towering 30-foot glass windows frame spectacular panoramic views of Mount San Jacinto and the San Bernardino Mountains. Wexler's use of steel, glass, and concrete creates an inorganic aesthetic perfectly suited to desert conditions, minimizing maintenance while maximizing durability. An awe-inspiring overhanging canopy stretches like a colossal wing at the entrance, embodying the optimistic Jet Age architecture of the 1960s while subtly evoking the shape of aircraft about to take flight.

Recent renovations honor Wexler's original vision through collaboration with the architect's son and the City's Preservation Office, ensuring authentic preservation of the terminal's midcentury modern integrity. Custom-ordered circular "UFO" bench planters, concrete benches, and matching receptacles remain true to the 1960s design aesthetic. The facility expanded thoughtfully with the addition of the Sonny Bono Concourse (1999), outdoor courtyard (2007), and renovated South Concourse, all maintaining harmony with the iconic Wexler terminal. Premium amenities include upscale dining options, retail boutiques featuring local art, comfortable mountain-view seating areas, and an outdoor playground unique among major airports.