Local & Community

Desert Hot Springs Joins Doors Open California: Explore Historic Rock House & Cabot's Pueblo Museum

This September, Desert Hot Springs is proudly participating in the Doors Open California event, which gives history enthusiasts and curious visitors the rare opportunity to step inside some of the state's most iconic and hidden gems. Among the 75+ sites featured in this statewide celebration, Desert Hot Springs' very own historic Rock House and Cabot's Pueblo Museum are offering behind-the-scenes access to areas that are typically closed to the public.

Both of these local landmarks, which date back to the early 1940s, are recognized as official historical sites, contributing to the rich cultural fabric of the region. Doors Open California is a once-a-year opportunity for ticket holders to venture beyond the typical museum experience, providing access to areas like backstage corridors, attics, archives, and even private homes—giving visitors a deeper understanding of life in Desert Hot Springs over the last century.

City leaders are enthusiastic about the event, which shines a spotlight on the significance of these historic locations. "You can't know the present without knowing the past," said one local leader. "To be able to preserve our history, have people access it, and learn about the city—what it was like to live here 100 years ago—is vital for both our residents and visitors."

The two museums, while distinct, are closely tied in Desert Hot Springs' history, with many referring to the Rock House as the "little sister" to Cabot's Pueblo Museum. Together, they form a unique pair of cultural landmarks that showcase the region's architectural and historical evolution.

The event's broader impact also highlights how vital it is to preserve the past for future generations. "We're excited for Doors Open California to bring more people to our city and provide a hands-on, immersive experience that connects visitors with our history in a way that textbooks or traditional tours simply cannot."

For both local residents and out-of-town guests, the event is an exciting opportunity to explore Desert Hot Springs in a way that celebrates its deep-rooted history, fosters a greater sense of community, and draws attention to the city's continued efforts to preserve its heritage.

By: NBC Palm Springs

September 18, 2025

Doors Open CaliforniaDesert Hot Springshistoric sitesRock HouseCabots Pueblo Museumhistorical landmarksstatewide celebrationbehindthescenes accesspreservationcity history1940s museums
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Desert Hot Springs Joins Doors Open California: Explore Historic Rock House & Cabot's Pueblo Museum