Inside Bing Crosby’s Thunderbird Heights home – complete with John F. Kennedy’s Wing

Bing Crosby’s mid-century modern home in Thunderbird Heights is currently listed for $4.5 million. The estate, which stretches across 1.36 acres of California’s mountainous neighborhood, was a favorite of President John F. Kennedy, who had his own private living quarters in the home. 

Singer, actor, and comedian Bing Crosby is amongst the first American multimedia stars. He is best known for his starring roles in White Christmas, Holiday Inn, and Going My Way. 

As an avid golfer, he spent much of his time on Thunderbird Heights’ courses alongside JFK (who had a seven handicap). 

With its relationship to the former President – and one of the most recognized faces of the 20th century – this estate is one of the most exciting listings in California and one of the world’s best homes. Here we tour the ranch-style property. 

Constructed in 1957, Bing Crosby’s home combines indoor and outdoor living and entertaining in one of the most vibrant postcodes in California. The 6,700-square-foot home boasts six bedrooms and six bathrooms, including the attached casita – named after the 35th U.S. President.

The home, where JFK allegedly stayed with Marilyn Monroe, exhibits custom Moroccan wood entry doors, a formal dining room, and a living space that overlooks Coachella Valley. It has upheld its retro aesthetic and continues to celebrate mid-century modernity with its vibrant soft furnishings and art-deco style doors.

The main home is a trove of decorating ideas that pay homage to its SoCal roots – from its chic gray and gold color scheme – to the glass walls that allow for indoor/outdoor living. Beyond the main living space, the home exhibits chef kitchen ideas with its granite island and stainless steel light fixtures that illuminate the space. 

The kitchen also flows into the garden, where there is an additional outdoor kitchen and bar on the fringe of the swimming pool. The outdoor space showcases urban garden ideas with a twist – featuring a large patio and outdoor living area that maintains the home’s retro style. 

Upstairs, the home boasts views across Joshua Tree’s mountains and the famous Coachella Valley – home to one of the most famous music festivals in the world. These views come as standard in Thunderbird Heights, which is one of the most coveted spots for celebrity vacation homes in Southern California.

David Emerson and Alexandra Trejo of Compass, and David Emerson & Associates, Palm Springs, hold the listing. Photos courtesy of TopTenRealEstateDeals.com.