Top 15 Must-Do Activities in Indio, California

Numerous festivals and renowned events take place in Indio each year. A look into the city’s offerings underscores why Indio – commonly referred to as The City of Festivals – is a premier destination for such significant events.

Indio is a modest city with a population of approximately 91,000, located in the Coachella Valley of Riverside County in Southern California. Situated in the Sonoran Desert, it enjoys abundant sunshine and warm weather, with minimal rainfall.

Although Indio itself may be small, the city and its surrounding areas feature a wide array of attractions. From cultural festivities to diverse dining experiences and outdoor recreational activities, there truly is something for everyone in Indio.

Indio is well-known for its nearby top-tier golf courses and its closeness to the city of Palm Springs. Nonetheless, it is primarily recognized for the various festivals celebrated throughout the year, including the Coachella Music Festival, Riverside County Fair, and the National Date Festival.

Below are 15 of the most recommended activities to partake in both in and around Indio, California.

1. Visit the Past at the Coachella Valley History Museum

Whether you are a history enthusiast or simply in search of intriguing narratives, a visit to the Coachella Valley History Museum offers an excellent opportunity to learn about Indio’s and the Coachella Valley’s rich history. The museum showcases numerous exhibits featuring captivating artifacts.

Discover insights into the original settlers who arrived in the late 1800s, the significance of the Southern Pacific Railroad, and the founding of the region’s towns and cities.

Delve into exhibits focused on Native American history, the agricultural background of the area, and the notable contributions made by its inhabitants toward developing the region.

The outdoor spaces include a historic schoolhouse, a blacksmith shop, and several gardens, such as a Japanese garden, desert garden, and a date garden. Knowledgeable guides are available to answer inquiries and facilitate tours of the museum.

2. Relax and Enjoy a Picnic at Miles Avenue Park

On pleasant days, having a picnic is an excellent way to relax while enjoying nature; Miles Avenue Park serves as an ideal setting for this purpose.

This picturesque green space boasts barbecue facilities and picnic tables. Recreational amenities cater to all age groups, such as a playground, a water play area, and basketball courts.

3. Treat Yourself to a Barbecue Meal at Jackalope Ranch

Regarded as one of California’s premier Southwest-inspired restaurants, Jackalope Ranch offers a unique dining experience where ambiance is as important as the cuisine.

Upon arrival, you will notice the impressive size of the stone lodge and the expansive property surrounding it.

The venue features several patios with scenic views, waterfalls, a saloon, and a palapa. Whether visiting for lunch or dinner, you can choose between a refined dining atmosphere or a more casual environment at Jackalope Ranch.

The diverse menu includes a range of three-course steak dinners, family-style meals, signature BBQ platters, and an assortment of traditional California-inspired dishes. An array of starters, sides, and salads further complement the offerings.

Guests can choose to enjoy their meals indoors or outdoors, concluding with a refreshing beverage from the extensive drink menu.

4. Tee Off at Shadow Hills Golf Course

Shadow Hills Golf Course in Indio is a splendidly maintained desert golf course suitable for players of all skill levels.

The breathtaking scenery, featuring mountains and valleys, in combination with the choice of playing on two distinctly different courses, makes Shadow Hills an excellent location for a day on the greens.

The North Course presents a more challenging par-3 layout replete with water hazards and sand traps, while the South Course offers a more relaxed, traditional 18-hole experience.

Regardless of your choice, whether opting for one or both courses, you are bound to enjoy a remarkable day. Additionally, there is a practice area, private lessons, and an on-site restaurant available.

5. Discover the Shields Date Garden

Originally a simple date farm, the Shields Date Garden has transformed into a 17-acre estate that invites exploration at your leisure.

As you stroll through the garden, a path lined with biblical-themed statues and exquisite scenery awaits. An audio guide is accessible via your smartphone to enhance your journey.

Before departing, be sure to visit the restaurant for a snack or meal, where traditional date shakes and date ice cream are specialties. A gift shop is also available on-site.

6. Admire the Public Murals

The striking artwork displayed across various buildings in Indio is hard to overlook. To truly appreciate this art, it is advisable to pause at each piece for detailed observation.

This mural initiative originated in the mid-1990s, aimed at revitalizing the city and attracting greater foot traffic. Since its inception, these murals have gained popularity and contributed to the area’s unique charm.

Comprising ten murals, most are situated in the Old Town district. Much of this extraordinary artwork is produced by local artists and illustrates scenes of early settlers and significant historical events. Visitors may acquire posters of the murals from the city.

7. Indulge in a Delicious Meal at Mario’s Italian Cafe

For many years, Mario’s Italian Cafe in Indio has provided a welcoming environment for residents and visitors to savor exquisite Italian cuisine.

This family-operated establishment features an extensive selection of meal options that cater to diverse tastes. Choices include calzones, subs, soups, salads, chicken, seafood, and a variety of appetizers and desserts. Among the most popular offerings are the handcrafted pasta dishes, customizable with different sauces and toppings.

A selection of pizzas is also available. Should you choose to dine inside, you can enjoy a cozy ambiance enhanced by traditional Italian decor.

8. Try Your Luck at Fantasy Springs Resort Casino

For an evening filled with entertainment and excitement, visit Fantasy Springs Resort Casino and try your fortune at winning cash or prizes. Featuring 40 table games and over 2,000 popular slot machines and video lottery games, your visit might yield favorable results.

This luxurious entertainment venue showcases desert-inspired decor and houses several restaurants and a bar. Numerous concerts and events are hosted throughout the year.

9. Spend a Day in Nature at the Thousand Palms Oasis Preserve

The natural areas surrounding Indio showcase the distinctive desert landscape. Thousand Palms Oasis Preserve in the Indio Hills is an ideal location for exploration amidst this unique terrain.

Key features of this preserve include the San Andreas Fault, McCallum Pond, and the imposing ancient palm trees that populate the area.

With over 25 miles of hiking trails available, visitors can discover canyons, dunes, and other elements that constitute this exceptional desert ecosystem.

10. Soar Over Indio with Air California Adventure

Air California Adventure provides tandem paragliding and hang gliding experiences tailored for both seasoned and novice thrill-seekers. Envision yourself soaring high above Indio, with breathtaking views of nearby attractions such as the San Bernardino Mountains, Joshua Tree National Park, and the Salton Sea.

This adventure promises a worry-free experience that includes professional guidance from experienced instructors.

11. Take in a Live Show at the Indio Performing Arts Center

Located in the heart of downtown Indio, the Indio Performing Arts Center serves as a cultural hub.

This expansive venue features a main hall and three theaters. A variety of events occur throughout the year, including concerts, theatrical performances, dinner theater, craft fairs, and movie screenings.

12. Party it up at Big Rock Pub

If immersing yourself in the local music scene is among your interests while traveling, Big Rock Pub is the quintessential location in Indio. Here, music aficionados and well-known local acts unite to enjoy live rock music paired with refreshing beverages.

The stylish decor, adorned with rock memorabilia, complements the pub’s kitchen offerings, which include a variety of meals and snacks such as burgers, fries, pizza, and nachos. A selection of cocktails is also available from the drink menu.

13. Shop ’til you Drop at The Gardens on El Paseo

If luxury shopping is one of your priorities, make your way to the nearby town of Palm Desert to discover everything you desire at The Gardens on El Paseo.

Explore an array of designer retailers – including Anthropologie and Kate Spade – while enjoying an open-air shopping environment with stunning views.

After a day of shopping, consider dining at one of the two steakhouses available.

14. Learn About Desert Animals and Plants at The Living Desert Zoo and Gardens

The desert environments across the globe host a variety of unique wildlife and plant species. The Living Desert Zoo and Gardens in Palm Springs is the premier destination to connect with the living desert.

This expansive 1,000-acre facility offers visitors an array of interactive experiences. You may navigate the area independently or opt for a private tour that provides a look behind the scenes.

As you explore, opportunities arise to feed a giraffe, enjoy a carousel ride, hike nature trails, visit museum exhibits, and observe a diverse range of desert flora and fauna, including jaguars and snakes.

Moreover, guests can interact with some domestic animals, such as donkeys and goats.

15. Take a Journey on the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway

Regarded as the World’s Largest Rotating Tramcar, the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway offers an unforgettable journey. Ascend 6,000 feet from the Coachella Valley and traverse Chino Canyon to reach the summit of San Jacinto Peak.

This ten-minute excursion spans two and a half miles over breathtaking scenery, featuring steep cliffs and pristine wilderness.

Upon arrival at the top, visitors can linger and enjoy access to two dining establishments, multiple observation decks, over 50 miles of nature trails, a museum, and a gift shop.