Indio is known as the ‘City of Festivals’ and is a popular destination for major events in the Coachella Valley. The city lies on the east side of the Valley and, despite its small size, Indio draws in crowds of 1.4 million per year. Although it’s famous for music festivals such as Coachella and Stagecoach, Indio has so much to offer visitors beyond entertainment. You won’t find this city lacking in music, outdoor activities, art, golf course, or food culture. Read on for our idea of a perfect day spent in Indio…
When To Visit Indio
The best time of year to visit Indio, California is November through April. While Indio is great no matter the time of year and gets very little annual rainfall, summers can be very hot. Outside of the popular festival month of April, you’ll generally find less tourist crowds in Indio than in more “mainstream” parts of the valley like Palm Springs.
Where To Stay In Indio
Bella Paloma – Short Stays
You’ll find that Bella Paloma is the perfect base for your next desert escape. The spacious floor plan and dual primary suites make this beautiful home a great option for multiple families or a group of friends. Bella Paloma is also only 2 miles from the festival grounds making it perfect for those who are visiting to see one of the many music festivals in Coachella Valley. Book Bella Paloma today!
Violet Sands – Short Stays
Available for a limited time this Spring (before a temporary close this summer to build a pool/spa!), Violet Sands is the ideal spot for festival goers. This 4 bedroom, 2 bathroom home was recently updated with new flooring, paint, appliances and furnishings. A quick, 3/4 mile walk will have you at either the Red Path (Ave 50 & Madison) or the Yellow Path (Ave 49 & Monroe) Pedestrian Entrances for Coachella & Stagecoach. Email kylee@arrivls.com for inquiries.
The Polo Cabana – Monthly Stays
Polo Cabana has resort-level amenities in a fantastic location. You can check out the 6 reasons to stay at the Polo Cabana here. You’ll love the relaxing resort-style backyard at this beautiful home. Guests also have access to all of the amazing amenities at Trilogy at the Polo Club. Enjoy preparing meals in the dreamy kitchen or unwinding in the amazing indoor/outdoor living spaces. You can book the Polo Cabana here!
One Perfect Day In Indio
Grab Coffee At Everbloom
81730 CA-111 Suite 14, Indio, CA 92201
Everbloom is a charming small coffee shop with great ambiance and a cozy feel. The outdoor seating area is perfect for enjoying your coffee in the sunny Indio weather. Everbloom makes their own syrup onsite making their drinks epically delicious. Try the Lavender, Madagascar Vanilla, or Butterscotch lattes, you won’t regret it!
Take In A Polo Match Or Exhibition
There are several premier polo clubs in Indio, two of the most popular are…
Empire Polo Club
81800 51st Ave, Indio, CA 92201
The Empire Polo Club played an integral role in California’s polo history. The polo season here is filled with competitive tournaments, events, and parties. Housed on this expansive 300-acre property, you will find plenty to keep the whole family entertained for an afternoon.
Eldorado Polo Club
50950 Madison Street, Indio, CA 92201
Visiting the Eldorado Polo Club is a great way to spend an afternoon with the family. You’ll get to fully experience and witness polo at its finest. You can also enjoy a refreshing beverage or a meal in the Clubhouse Restaurant. Eldorado Polo Clubhouses ten regulation polo fields and stables that can accommodate 500 horses.
Explore Shields Date Garden
80-225 CA-111, Indio, CA 92201
No visit to Indio would be complete without visiting Shields Date Garden. Did you know that they have a cafe that serves breakfast and lunch? It’s true! This is a great place to explore at any time of the day, but you have to try their world-famous date shake! Afterward, wander around the garden for a few minutes and then get ready to head downtown.
Hunt For Murals In Downtown Indio
After lunch, drive to downtown Indio and go hunting for murals. The mural project was created to help revitalize the city, and has resulted in some beautiful works of art to discover! The project began in 1996 with a mural by Bill Weber depicting the Taj Mahal and there are now 24 murals dotted around the city.
Visit the Coachella Valley History Museum
82616 Mile Avenue, Indio, CA 92201
$8 for adults
If you’re interested in the history of the Coachella Valley, then head to the Coachella Valley History Museum to find out more about the unique stories of the region. With a wide variety of exhibits ranging from the area’s first residents to the Southern Pacific Railroads storied past, you’ll be treated to historical displays of the indigenous population, and the growth of the region.
Grab Dinner At Pueblo Viejo Grill
81931 CA-111, Indio, CA 92201
This Indio staple has a large dining room and offers all of your favorite Mexican cuisine favorites. Known as the best authentic Mexican in Coachella Valley, you’ll be hard-pressed to find better portions or friendlier service. Try the Tostadas de Ceviche, Shrimp Fajitas, and Sweet Corn Tamales.
For A Lively Night Out – Fantasy Springs Resort Casino
84-245 Indio Springs Pkwy, Indio, CA 92203
For a fun night out while in Indio, head to Fantasy Springs Resort Casino. This award-winning venue is home to a fantastic casino filled with over 40 table games and 2,000 of the best slot machines. You can also grab a fun cocktail at the Spring Bar, or take in a show or special event.
Other Options For One Perfect Day In Indio:
For Golfers:
Play A Round Of Golf At Shadow Hills Golf Course
80875 Ave 40, Indio, CA 92203
This elegant golf course will have you excited to play a round at Shadow Hill. The views here are incredibly picturesque, and will have you forgetting about your golf swing! Shadow Hill was voted the ‘Best Of Indio Golf Courses.’ If you’ve got a golfer in your party. they won’t want to miss this course and won’t regret spending an afternoon here.
Find out more about Shadow Hills Golf Club.
For Those Wanting To Relax:
Visit Indio Spa
42151 World Mark Way, Indio, CA 92203
If you’re looking for a more relaxing experience during your time in Indio, then you need to visit the Indio Spa. Offering a variety of treatments, this spa is all about tranquility with the use of heated massage tables, eye pillows, and warm therapy. Get a massage, facial, or a full spa package for the ultimate unwinding experience in Indio. Find out more about the spa packages here.
For the ultimate Indio Experience:
Go To A Music Festival
This list wouldn’t be complete without mentioning what Indio is most famous for, musical festivals. Some of the premier festivals in the United States happen right here, including Coachella and Stagecoach. Find the event list for Indio here.
There are so many options for one perfect day in Indio, California that you are sure to have an amazing time no matter what you choose to do! Enjoy your time in this historic Coachella Valley city!
