Palm Springs' New Spa and Museum Showcase Agua Caliente History

Visitors can explore immersive exhibits, ancient artifacts, and award-winning desert-inspired architecture that highlight the tribe's deep roots across the Coachella Valley.

Mar. 24, 2026 at 10:18am

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A new cultural museum and the Spa at Séc-he in downtown Palm Springs showcase the Agua Caliente Band of Cahuilla Indians' history, sacred hot spring, and Section 14 story. The facilities offer visitors the chance to learn about the tribe's deep roots in the region through interactive exhibits, ancient artifacts, and award-winning architecture.

Why it matters

The new museum and spa aim to bring greater awareness and appreciation for the Agua Caliente tribe's long history and cultural significance in the Palm Springs and Coachella Valley area. As one of the most visible Native American communities in the region, highlighting their story helps preserve an important part of the area's heritage.

The details

The new Agua Caliente Cultural Museum and the Spa at Séc-he, located in downtown Palm Springs, feature immersive exhibits, ancient artifacts, and award-winning desert-inspired architecture that showcase the tribe's history and connection to the land. Visitors can learn about the Agua Caliente's sacred hot spring, their role in the development of Section 14, and other aspects of their deep roots across the Coachella Valley.

  • The new Agua Caliente Cultural Museum and Spa at Séc-he recently opened in downtown Palm Springs.

The players

Agua Caliente Band of Cahuilla Indians

A federally recognized Native American tribe whose ancestral homeland includes the Coachella Valley and Palm Springs area.

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The takeaway

The new museum and spa showcase the rich history and cultural significance of the Agua Caliente tribe, helping to preserve an important part of Palm Springs' and the Coachella Valley's heritage for residents and visitors alike.