25 Best & Fun Things To Do in Indio CA (California)
Do you want to know the best and most enjoyable things to do in Indio, California?
If you’re looking for an amazing place to live and work, Indio is definitely it. With rolling hills, stunning scenery, and a wealth of cultural attractions, the city is bursting with opportunities.
Whether you’re looking to explore the city on foot or take a tour of some of its most popular attractions, we’ve got you covered. Here are exciting things to do in Indio California, but before that’s lets brif you on Indio as a location.
Indio is a city in Riverside County, California, well-known for hosting famous events and festivals every year. With over 93,000 inhabitants, it is now the most rapidly growing city in Riverside County’s Coachella Valley.
Indio is located in the Sonoran Desert, which results in moderate temperatures, a significant quantity of heat, and light rainfall.
Indio is nicknamed “The City of Festivals” since it is a popular venue for major events. Despite its tiny size, this location attracts many visitors from all over the world.
Do you have any plans to visit Indio? The best things to do in Indio, California, are listed below.
24 Best and Fun Things to Do in Indio CA (California)
#1. Royal Plaza Inn Hotel
This Indio, California hotel has a heated outdoor pool and a spa pool, only a 25-minute drive from Joshua Tree National Park. The Royal Plaza Inn’s rooms come with cable TV and free Wi-Fi.
Beautiful building and ambience, as well as a helpful and polite staff. The only disappointment is that the restaurant is still closed after the closing.
Is it possible to cancel your reservation at the Royal Plaza Inn and get a full refund?
Yes, you may book fully refundable accommodation rates at the Royal Plaza Inn on their website. Depending on the property’s cancellation policy, you may be able to cancel a completely refundable hotel rate up to a few days before check-in.
Just make sure to read the cancellation policy for the most up-to-date information. For more information about the hotel or to book your reservation, visit the Royal Plaza Inn here.
#2. The Indio Teen Center
The Indio Teen Center is one of the most interesting things to do as a teen during your vacation. It’s fine for teenagers to enjoy themselves throughout their vacation.
This destination is offered to students in grades 8 through 12. A game area, a recording studio, a boxing gym, a cafeteria, and an internet cafe are all available at the teen center.
There is a counselling center available for those who require assistance. Several educational activities and programs with patrons from the Indio Senior Center are also organized every day.
Address: 81-678 Ave 46, Indio, CA 92201, United States
#3. The Thousand Palms Oasis Preserve
The Thousand Palm Oasis Preserve, which should be at the top of your list of fun things to do in India, California, is the place to go if you want to appreciate nature.
Many natural landscapes surround this region, bringing out the historic desert scenery, and this destination is an excellent site to visit and appreciate this unique landscape.
The Palms Oasis Preserve also features a hiking trail almost 25 miles long. You’ll observe dunes, canyons, and other natural elements as you walk beside the pathways, adding to the splendour of this magnificent desert life.
Address: 29200 Thousand Palms Canyon Rd, Thousand Palms, CA 92276, United States
#4. Miles Avenue Park
In Indio, California, Miles Avenue Park is another attraction worth seeing on our list of things to do. It’s the perfect destination to bring the whole family together for a fun weekend or holiday, and it should be on your to-do list.
Despite the abundance of barbeque and picnic areas, the Park nevertheless offers a variety of family-friendly activities that any family would enjoy.
The children have not been forgotten, and families with children are welcome to bring their children to enjoy the playground and water play area. In addition, there are several basketball courts in the Park.
Address: 82540 Miles Ave, Indio, CA 92201, USA
#5. Maclin’s Open-Air Markets
The second-largest open-air market in Maclin’s history is next on this list of things to do in Indio, California.
Palm Springs is only a short distance from Maclin’s open-air market. This night market has the best of everything you’re looking for, as it’s brimming with one-of-a-kind items.
When you come here, the environment is vibrant and fun-filled. Fairgrounds in Southern California are well-known for their high-quality architectural design, a fantastic representation of Moroccan city life.
Many people flock to the market on Wednesdays and Saturdays to shop at the more than 400 merchants on site. While watching the sunset, you can buy fresh veggies produced the day before for residents. If you plan to shop for food, you can also purchase some local dates.
The market has several aisles to navigate, and the moonlight serves as a guide to help people find that one-of-a-kind item they’re looking for. You can also spend quality time with family and friends while indulging in delectable dishes, snacks, and beverages.
Address: 46350 Arabia St, Indio, CA 92201, USA
#6. Empire Polo Club
The Empire Polo Club was founded in 1987 and quickly became a popular location for anyone looking to participate in a polo match. It is now a significant part of California’s polo history.
The Empire Polo Club hosts tournaments throughout the year, as well as parties and other public events. It also offers facilities such as ten glass polo fields, two workout tracks, a nightclub, the Tack Room Tavern, with the best burgers in Palm Springs, a regulation-sized pop stadium, and stabling.
The polo club is located on 300 acres of property and is home to the renowned Coachella Valley Music and Arts Festival, bringing together performers from all genres.
Address: 81800 Avenue 51, Indio, CA 92201, USA
If you’re planning a road trip through California, check out our suggestions for things to do in Newport, Laurel MD and Ojai for a great trip.
#7. Shields’ Date Garden
The Shields Date Garden covers 17 acres of land. It is a large complex with a wonderful environment that allows tourists to snap several photographs.
From 2011 to 2013, the Shields Date Garden underwent extensive renovations, and this place now houses a Vancouver garden and several biblical figures.
Twenty-three sculptures may be seen along a winding path depicting 14 major stories from Jesus’ life. Visitors can also use their mobile phones to listen to stories about what they observe on-site. Be sure to add this to your list of things to do in Idio CA.
Address: 80-225 CA-111, Indio, CA 92201, United States
#8. Coachella Valley Music and Arts Festival
The Coachella Valley Music and Arts Festival, is the eight thing on our list of things to do in Indio, California. The Empire Polo Club in Indio, California, hosts the festival, also known as Coachella Festival or Coachella, and takes place every year.
Visitors can also witness relics and sculptures from these events and performances from various music genres such as rock, electro dance music, and indie.
On many stages throughout the festival, live music performances are held. Since 2001, well-known acts such as Guns n’ Roses, AC/DC, Paul McCartney, Red Hot Chili Peppers, and Lady Gaga have performed here.
Kanye West, Snoop Dogg, Beyonce, Ariana Grande, Radiohead, and a slew of other musicians performed at the Coachella event. So feel free to add this among the best places to visit in Indio, California.
Address: Indio, California, United States of America
#9. The Jackalope Ranch
If you prefer fine food, stop by the Jackalope Ranch, where you can sample the best of Southwest cuisine in a beautiful setting. It should be on your list of interesting things to do in Indio, California.
The first thing you’ll notice as you walk into the restaurant is how huge the estate is and the stone lodge within it.
There are several patios here with beautiful views, including a saloon, palapas, and waterfalls. It makes no difference whether the time of day you come for lunch or dinner. At this Ranch, you may be sure to find the ideal setting for your lunch.
The restaurant’s culinary menus feature a variety of meals, including family combo meals, top-notch barbecue specialities, indigenous California cuisine, and three-course steak dinners.
Furthermore, they provide a pleasant outdoor and interior environment in which tourists can enjoy their meals.
Address: 80400 CA-111, Indio, CA 92201, United States
#10. Mulligan Dog Park
The Mulligan Dog Park is another attraction on our list of things to do in Indio, California. This is a fantastic place to visit with your dogs for a fun-filled adventure.
The Park has many trees that serve as shelters and a large grassy space. The Park has plenty of room for your dog to run about and have fun.
The dog park accepts dogs of all sizes and breeds, with separate areas. There are several conveniences in the Park to ensure that your pets have a good time, including drinking faucets on both sides of the Park and easy-to-clean vegetables.
Address: 45355 Van Buren Street, Indio, CA 92201
#11. Murals In Indio
Indio has a lot of beauty and excitement, thanks to the many public artistic vistas that can be found around the city. So, if you enjoy art, this is an intriguing site to visit and have some fun with, and it should be on your to-do list.
The city is recognized for its massive murals, ideal for use as public art. Murals are particularly important in the city because they have become a large part of the landscape in this region and can be seen all around the Coachella Valley.
The murals were mostly painted by local artists and highlighted and showcased the city’s rich history and activities. Visitors to the Riverside County Date Festival often make a point of seeing these stunning murals.
Address: Indio, California, United States of America
#12. The Riverside County Fairgrounds
The Riverside County Fairgrounds is home to various festivals, fairs, and other events that take place throughout the year. Since its inception in 1921, the Riverside County Fair has become a well-known event.
The Riverside County Fairgrounds was formerly a site where Coachella Valley’s annual date palm harvest was commemorated, and it now houses over 250,000 date palm trees.
There are almost 7,000 exhibitions on display at this site and various competitions in which visitors can compete. Bull riding, live performances by comedians and artists, and the Date Festival Queen Crowning are just a few competitions.
Address: 46517 Arabia St, Indio, CA 92201, United States
#13. Shadow Hills Golf Course
If you enjoy golf, one of the greatest things to do in Indio, California, is visiting the Club at Shadow Hills Golf Course, which should be high on your list.
Both amateur and professional golfers are welcome to play on the course. There are two separate golf courses within the valleys and mountain areas, making it an ideal site for a round of golf.
The North Course’s golf course features water hazards, bunkers, and sand traps, making it hard and enjoyable.
The South Course area is home to one of the estate’s newest 18-hole courses, which is calm and convenient. Whatever golf course you play, you’ll get the same energy and satisfaction, so you’ll have a great time here.
Address: 80875 Avenue 40, Indio, CA 92203, USA
#14. Indio Spa
After a long day of sightseeing in the city, you’ll undoubtedly need a place to pamper your body, and the Indio Spa is the place to go. It should be on your must-do list.
The Indio Spa is home to a team of well-trained and skilled specialists who provide visitors with the best possible service.
Indio Spa in Indio, California, is manned by a group of highly qualified and experienced professionals that endeavour to deliver outstanding service to customers during their visit.
During all spa treatments, heated massage tables, eye pillows, warm therapy, and heated lotion are used. CBD treatments, facials, wraps, massages, private group meetings, exfoliators, and other spa treatments are available here.
Adress: Indio, California, 42151 WorldMark Way
#15. Stagecoach Festival
The city of Indio is loaded with a lot of fun and a lot of music aura, so if you prefer fantastic music, this is the place to be and experience the best of music in this lovely city.
The festival is organized in collaboration with the Coachella Valley Music Arts, and it is a world-class music festival to attend. Several country music genres, including country heart, southern rock, alternative country, and country rock, are featured at the event each year.
Keith Urban, Brad Paisley, Shania Twain, Tim McGrew, Blake Shelton, Taylor Swift, and Blake Shelton have all performed on this magnificent stage.
The first stagecoach festival was held in 2007, and it has since expanded to attract thousands of visitors to the city. Several amenities are available at the location, including camping during the festival.
Address: 81800 51st Ave, Indio, CA 92201, United States
#16. Coachella Valley History Museum
Visit the Coachella Valley History Museum, one of the best things to do in Indio. You may learn about the region’s fascinating history and the diverse artefacts on show.
During your museum tour, you’ll learn about the region’s early inhabitants, the significance of the Southern Pacific Railroad, and how their cities and villages grew.
Some exhibits depict the region’s history, agricultural system, and people’s lifestyles and how their efforts led to the region’s growth.
You’ll witness a medieval school, a blacksmith shop, and a few gardens that have been renovated into Japanese and desert landscape gardens. On-site guides are available to assist you and answer questions while visiting the grounds.
Address: 82616 Miles Ave, Indio, CA 92201, United States
If you’re planning a road trip through California, check out our lists of things to do in San Rafael, Palmdale, and Fullerton.
#17. Big Rock Pub
Enjoy live music at the Big Rock Pub in Indio, California, where you can see and hear some of the best local musicians. If you enjoy fantastic music, this should be high on your list of things to see and do in Indio, California.
Music fans and well-known indigenous performers gather to listen to live music while sipping a great beverage.
A modern design showcases a variety of diverse rock archives, while the kitchen pub provides visitors with a variety of snacks and meals. On their drink menu, they also provide a large assortment of drinks.
Address: 79940 Westward Ho Dr B, Indio, CA 92201, United States
#18. Eldorado Polo Club
The Eldorado Polo Club is another item on our list of things to do, and it is one of the best things to do with the entire family if you want to visit this lovely city, and it should be on your list of things to do in Indio CA.
The Polo Club welcomes anyone who wants to have a good time. Visitors and competitors are both welcome to partake in the festivities. Relax in the Cantina’s clubhouse restaurant or on the Cantina’s outside field-side terrace.
Visitors can choose from a wide range of liquors and wines at this bar. Adults and children can also learn about polo and go horseback riding with their horses. The polo club has eight function fields and a stable that can house over 500 horses.
Address: 50950 Madison St, Indio, CA 92201, USA
#19. Coachella Valley Art Center
A visit to the Coachella Valley Art Center for a delightful art experience is one of Indio’s best things to do.
The Coachella Valley Art Institution established this location as a non-profit arts center. It is a gathering place for artists of all levels, from professionals to amateurs.
Here is a location for artists to stay who are visiting the area and art programs in metal sculpture and welding, kiln glass, glass blowing, and a variety of other talents. As a result, what to do in Indio for a good time should be included in your bucket list of places to visit in Indio, California.
Address: 45140 Towne St, Indio, CA 92201, USA
#20. Desert Theatreworks
The Desert Theatreworks, based in the Indio Performing Arts Center, is another item on our list of things to do. Add this to your list of things to do in Indio, California.
Coachella Valley’s volunteer top-notch theatre troupe is the Desert Theater. Since its inception in July 2013, it has received numerous prizes and accolades. It has produced 45 major theatrical productions as well as 25 unique events.
It also provides educational platforms for the general public to learn about the development of art in the community and its surroundings.
Address: 45175 Fargo St, Indio, CA 92201, United States
#21. Cabazon Cultural Museum
The Cabazon Cultural Museum is a wonderful way to spend an afternoon in Indio. It’s a small museum located inside the Cabazon Indian Reservation, which is home to the world’s largest population of Native American Indians.
The museum has a wide variety of exhibits on different aspects of the culture and history of the tribe. You can also explore the museum on foot or take a guided tour. There are also several exhibits that allow you to interact with the Native American Indians.
Address: 84245 Indio Springs Pkwy, Indio, CA 92203, United States
22. Fairgrounds of the County
Visiting the County Fairgrounds is another thing on our to-do list. The Fairgrounds host a variety of events and fairs throughout the year.
This location, which opened in 1921, has become an iconic and well-known event in the county. The fundamental reason for the festival’s existence is the Coachella Valley’s date palm harvest, which attracts many visitors.
Visitors can participate in one of the over 7,000 competitions and events held here or see performances by various comedians and performers. There will also be an event to select the festival’s best queen for the year.
Address: 46517 Arabia St, Indio, CA 92201, United States
#23. George S. Patton Park
The George S. Patton Park in Indio is another family-friendly park worth visiting. It includes a lot of enjoyable family activities that will capture the attention of everyone in the family and should be on your list of things to do.
The Park contains a big grassy area and a small playground that is well protected, allowing children to enjoy themselves while playing, exchanging ideas, and having fun.
There are two barbeque and picnic areas with plenty of opportunities for family and friends to eat together. A tennis court and a basketball court are also available at the Park. They are secure and welcoming to those who want to have a nice time.
Address: 83700 Avenue 43, Indio, CA 92203, USA
#24. The Living Desert Zoo and Gardens
The Living Desert Zoo and Gardens is another attraction worth visiting on our list of things to do. Deserted environments have traditionally been a haven for various plant and wildlife species.
The Living Desert Zoo and Gardens is an excellent destination if you want to learn more about desert life. The zoo and garden cover 1000 acres and provide tourists with various lovely experiences. Visitors can also take a self-guided tour.
Visitors will be able to ride a carousel, examine museum displays, see varied desert fauna and flora such as snakes and jaguars, feed a giraffe, and hike on nature trails while traversing the entire area.
Address: 47900 Portola Ave, Palm Desert, CA 92260, United States
#25. Fantasy Springs Resort Casino
One of the best things to do if you want to have the best gaming experience possible is to go to the Fantasy Springs Resort Casino.
The Casino features over 2,000 of the most up-to-date video and slot poker machines in a state-of-the-art, fun-filled casino environment.
Because of the casino’s pleasant and outstanding staff service, you can be sure to have a fun casino gaming experience when you visit. You may also visit their Springs Bar for some excellent cocktails, attend an event or performance, or stay at the casino’s hotel.
This is a great activity in Indio, CA, so add it to your bucket list of things to do in Indio, CA.
Address: 84-245 Indio Springs Pkwy, Indio, CA 92203, United States
For more great things to do in California, check out our lists of things to do in Fresno, Bakersfield, and Fremont.
What is the Weather Conditions in Indio, California?
The weather conditions in Indio, California, are safe for most activities. However, please be aware of the potential for thunderstorms and lightning during the peak hours.
What is Indio California Known for?
Indio is known for its rolling hills, stunning scenery, and wealth of cultural attractions. This makes it a great place to live and work.
Additionally, the city is home to a number of popular attractions, including the Edison Museum of Technology, Griffith Park, and the new aquarium.
Is Indio California Safe?
Indio is definitely a safe city to live in. With a violent crime rate of 2 per 1,000,000 residents, Indio is one of the safest cities in California.
Additionally, the city has a low rate of property crime. In fact, only 2 percent of all crimes reported in Indio are Property Crimes.
Plan Your Trip To Indio
If you are searching for things to do in Indio CA, this article has everything you need to know. It’s an excellent place for visitors and locals, and the weather is always perfect.
Indio is the perfect destination for people who love adventures. With an array of attractions and activities, it’s no wonder that it has become the fastest-growing city in California.
So, start preparing to tour Indio on your next vacation. You’ll love it and enjoy the places to visit in California.
