Looking for things to do in Indio, CA, without the hassle of research? Discover the magical experiences that await you, from world-famous music festivals to vast desert expanses and delicious local cuisine.
Whether you’re planning a family vacation, a romantic La Quinta getaway, or a solo trip, here are the top must-see attractions that will make your visit truly unforgettable and provide plenty of family fun along the way. Whether you’re a first-time visitor to Indio or a returning desert dweller, your vacation planning just got easier.
1. Experience an Indio Music Festival
Photo Credit: Tint Media
Nestled in the heart of Southern California’s vibrant Coachella Valley, Indio is far more than just a desert city; it’s a world-renowned hub for some of the most iconic music festivals on the planet. Every year, music lovers from across the globe converge here to immerse themselves in unforgettable auditory and visual spectacles.
Coachella
Experiencing a music festival at the Empire Polo Club is an absolute must for anyone visiting Indio. None more legendary than The Coachella Music and Arts Festival. This festival has attracted music enthusiasts around the world with its diverse lineup of top performing artists and vibrant atmosphere. It is easily regarded as a concert-going experience of a lifetime, a pilgrimage any true music fan must make.
With top guest celebrity appearances, its many stages and diverse lineups, and its vast desert oasis vibe, there is a reason people vote this one of the most sought-after music festival experiences out there.
Stagecoach
Country music fans should not miss the Stagecoach Festival, held annually in late April. This iconic event features both current stars and legendary Nashville artists, drawing huge crowds eager for a true country music experience. Tickets sell out quickly, so securing yours early is essential to avoid disappointment and ensure you don’t miss this unforgettable lineup of Country music’s finest.
2. Eat at Shields Date Garden
Shields Date Garden offers visitors an opportunity to learn about date cultivation and enjoy a variety of date-infused dishes. It is a 17-acre date farm that features a garden path with Biblical-themed sculptures, as well as a shop and a restaurant. The garden’s café is renowned for its innovative menu featuring irresistible and delicious date-themed creations that delight every palate.
In addition to culinary delights, Shields Date Garden provides a peaceful and educational experience. Its tranquil pathways and historical insights from guides and growers make it a fantastic spot to visit at any time of year, so consider booking a tour.
3. Hit the links at The Lights at Indio Golf Course
Golf enthusiasts will appreciate The Lights at Indio Golf Course, the only night-lighted golf course in the Coachella Valley. Indio and the surrounding area are renowned for their abundance of pro-rated courses and Coachella Golf tournaments. Playing a few rounds under the stars is an even more unforgettable experience. The course also features a full-length driving range and a short game practice area for all skill levels.
Spectacular Santa Rosa mountain views enhance the ambiance, making it a delightful place to spend an evening. The well-stocked golf shop ensures that both seasoned golfers and beginners have plenty of everything they need for a memorable time on the greens.
4. Fantasy Springs Resort Casino: Hit the Links or Try Your Luck
Fantasy Springs Resort Casino combines relaxation and excitement. It features a huge swimming pool and a jacuzzi, perfect for unwinding after a day of exploring.
The resort offers a diverse range of gaming options, including slot machines, table games, poker rooms, and bingo, catering to both casual players and high rollers. Multiple restaurants and bars offer a diverse range of dining experiences, from casual eateries to fine dining establishments.
Adjacent to the resort, Eagle Falls Golf Club offers fantastic golfing opportunities with a well-maintained course that provides a challenging yet enjoyable experience. This 18-hole championship course is known for its lush fairways, strategically placed bunkers, and stunning water features that come into play on several holes, testing both the precision and power of golfers of all skill levels.
Designed to blend seamlessly with the natural desert landscape, Eagle Falls Golf Club also offers spectacular views of the surrounding mountains, creating a serene and picturesque setting for a round of golf.
5. Coachella Valley History Museum
At the heart of Indio’s cultural heritage, the Coachella Valley History Museum showcases the region’s diverse history through various exhibitions and events, including an early 1900s adobe home and a dedicated date museum.
The museum offers engaging and informative educational tours that cover the valley’s evolution and its significance in California’s history. With free admission during the first weekend of each month, it’s a low-cost attraction worth adding to your itinerary.
6. Roam with the Desert’s Wildest at The Living Desert Zoo
Photo Credit: L Paul Mann
The Living Desert Zoo offers an immersive and unique zoo experience, bringing visitors close to wildlife from diverse desert ecosystems, ranging from Africa to the Australian Outback. Feed long-necked giraffes up close in the Savannah exhibit, gaze upon black rhinos and cheetahs, and even walk alongside free-roaming wallabies hopping around in the Australia exhibit!
In addition to its wildlife, the zoo offers educational programs that emphasize conservation and the importance of preserving desert wildlife. Surrounding the zoo area are hiking trails catering to all outdoor enthusiasts.
These trails offer stunning vistas of the vast desert floor below, making them ideal for a more active family outing and providing opportunities for animal encounters. Learn more about what events, trails, and wildlife encounters The Living Desert Zoo has to offer.
7. Desert Theatreworks
Desert Theatreworks enriches the Coachella Valley with innovative plays and musicals, catering to both residents and visitors while fostering community engagement. Their commitment to accessibility includes ASL-interpreted performances for deaf and hard-of-hearing audiences.
Imaginative and entertaining productions at Desert Theatreworks make it a must-visit for performing arts enthusiasts. From classic plays to modern interpretations, there’s always something exciting on stage.
8. Marvyn’s Magic Theater: Entertainment for All Ages
Marvyn’s Magic Theater stands out as one of Indio’s top attractions, offering a truly magical experience for visitors of all ages. This family-friendly vacation activity is the perfect place to enjoy world-class entertainment, with a lineup of talented magicians, comedians, and performers who know how to keep audiences captivated from start to finish. For those who want to dive deeper into the mysterious world of magic, Marvyn’s Magic Theater also offers workshops and classes.
If you’re planning a family getaway and need somewhere to bring the kids or are just searching for something outside the box to do, Marvyn’s Magic Theater is a place where everyone can find joy and amazement.
9. Riverside County Fair
The Riverside County Fair and National Date Festival is a cherished tradition in Indio. It has been celebrating the Date Palm harvest since the mid-1900s. Held annually, the event features family-friendly activities such as carnival rides, live entertainment, and agricultural exhibits.
The fair is an exceptional opportunity to fully immerse yourself in the rich local culture and enjoy an unforgettable day packed with rides, games, and good old-fashioned family fun. From savoring authentic local delicacies to experiencing thrilling live performances, the Riverside County Fair delivers an exciting and diverse array of activities that cater to all ages and tastes.
10. International Tamale Festival
Photo Credit: Metamore Studio
The International Tamale Festival in Indio attracts food lovers with a wide variety of tamales, live music, and folkloric performances. Held annually (usually in December) with free admission, it’s an event that everyone can enjoy.
The festival celebrates culture and community, offering more than just food. Exploring the different stalls, which offer unique and delicious tamales, along with live entertainment, creates a festive and memorable experience for your family.
While it’s definitely not a year-round attraction, you can savor delicious tamales from the iconic Mexican restaurants in Indio and Coachella Valley year-round. One of our favorites is Arriola’s Tortilleria.
Planning Your Trip to Indio
When planning your vacation to Indio, booking accommodations well in advance can help secure better rates and availability, especially around holidays and winter. Booking hotels early is important to ensure you get the place that best suits your needs. Traveling during the off-peak season also helps avoid large crowds at popular attractions, providing a more relaxed and less crowded experience.
Best Time to Visit
Late spring and early fall are the best times to visit Indio, CA, as these seasons offer pleasant temperatures and lower humidity, making outdoor activities more enjoyable.
Winter and Spring tend to bring the most crowds as snowbirds descend seeking the warmth of Indio and concert lovers catch their favorite headliners at festivals with warm sunny days and cool evenings.
June is typically the driest month, with virtually no rainfall. However, keep in mind that during the summer months, temperatures can reach sweltering levels, and this is considered off-season in the Coachella Valley. Perfect if your ideal trip is poolside, early morning, and evening exploring.
Start Planning Your Top Things to Do in Indio Today!
The city’s unique blend of cultural, culinary, and recreational experiences makes it a perfect family-friendly or back-to-school vacation destination. So when you’re booking a stay at one of our rentals for your dream Palm Springs getaway and need things to make it a trip of a lifetime, this list has got you covered.
We hope this guide inspires you to plan your trip to Indio and explore all that this wonderful city has to offer. Whether you’re a history buff, a music lover, or a foodie, Indio promises an unforgettable experience.
