North Palm Springs, California: Volkswagen VW Beetle Spider

I was sure this place would not be open, given the previous reports. But to my surprise and my 5-year old son's delight, the main gate was open and a collection of wonders revealed. Not only did we get a close up view of the spider, but there was a mini kid's dream kind of paradise about 100 ft to the left of said arachnid. There is a realty sign out front, so I'm not sure what's up with that, but we had a great adventure today.

I've been there three times, and it's usually empty and locked. This time, there was a truck in the lot and the garage was open, but no one would come out. It's a neat site for a VW enthusiast, and for anyone who likes a nice nutty view. Want to see it at night, since it's got lighting running through it, but not holding out hope.

There's a Jack-in-the-Box next door that is the easiest place to park -- then you can just walk around to any angle.

Visited in mid-May. This property has a "For Sale" sign out in front of the property. The front gate was closed so I could not get inside.

Large VW Bug Spider in front of a Palm Springs welding shop. The sign on the building says, "Hole in the Wall Welding" but they don't seem to be listed on the online yellow pages. This VW Bug Spider is similar to other car spiders spotted in Arizona and Nevada. The Palm Springs Spider had some nice hair details in the legs not seen in the Carson City, NV Spider photo. The landscaping around the Palm Springs spider is an interesting collection of rocks, cactus, and other welded sculptures.

Car Parts Black Widow Spider - One of my personal favorite landmarks is just visible from I-10, much more impressive if you exit and drive just south of the freeway. My husband first spotted it in the late 70's (?) we think... Made from a VW Bug Body with giant welded steel legs she crouches over the entrance to this metal shop building. You drive in and park right next to it and .... Walk In! I wish someone who reads this would get a nice picture and find out what the real story is.