10 Best Places in Indio, California To Visit By Charter Bus

Indio, known as the “City of Festivals,” is one of Southern California’s most exciting destinations for group travel. Whether you’re planning a school field trip, corporate retreat, or private group outing, a charter bus rental offers the most convenient way to explore Indio’s top attractions together. With a fleet of charter buses and minibuses equipped with premium amenities like WiFi, reclining seats, and onboard restrooms, your group will enjoy comfortable and reliable transportation throughout the Coachella Valley.

Ready to start planning your Indio adventure? Call 442-933-6810 for an instant quote on bus rentals tailored to your itinerary!

Empire Polo Club

81800 Avenue 51, Indio, CA 92201

No visit to Indio is complete without stopping by the iconic Empire Polo Club. Best known as the home of the world-famous Coachella Valley Music & Arts Festival and Stagecoach Country Music Festival, this sprawling 78-acre venue hosts major concerts, sporting events, art shows, and private functions year-round. Groups can book a bus to attend an event, tour the manicured polo grounds, or even schedule a private match during polo season. There’s ample space for bus parking, and passengers can relax in climate-controlled comfort while navigating festival crowds or summer heat. Be sure to check the club’s calendar for public tournaments, food festivals, or seasonal activities that might align with your visit.

Coachella Valley History Museum

82616 Miles Ave, Indio, CA 92201

For an educational experience, take your group to the Coachella Valley History Museum, located in the heart of downtown Indio. This beautifully landscaped campus features the historic 1926 Smiley-Tyler House, a restored 1909 schoolhouse, a native plant garden, and the world’s only date museum. Guided tours offer insight into the region’s agricultural roots, Cahuilla Indian heritage, and the development of the valley’s resort communities. School groups and history buffs alike will appreciate hands-on exhibits and interactive programming. The museum also hosts cultural festivals, lectures, and art workshops—making it a great stop for student groups and lifelong learners. Reserve group admission in advance and request a dedicated drop-off point for easy access.

Shields Date Garden

80225 US Highway 111, Indio, CA 92201

A signature attraction since 1924, Shields Date Garden is a must-see for foodies and agricultural enthusiasts. Groups can stroll through lush date palm groves, watch the quirky “Romance and Sex Life of the Date” film in the retro theater, and sample date shakes or locally grown produce in the café. Self-guided walking trails feature Biblical-themed sculptures and informational plaques about desert farming. Book a behind-the-scenes tour to learn how dates are cultivated, harvested, and processed. The garden’s gift shop is perfect for picking up unique souvenirs like date sugar, jams, and gourmet treats. Bus-friendly parking and shaded picnic areas make this a relaxing lunch stop or half-day excursion.

Fantasy Springs Resort Casino

84245 Indio Springs Pkwy, Indio, CA 92203

If your group enjoys nightlife or entertainment, schedule an evening at Fantasy Springs Resort Casino. This popular destination offers over 2,000 slot machines, table games, live poker, and off-track betting. Beyond gaming, the resort features a bowling alley, golf course, multiple restaurants, and a state-of-the-art concert venue hosting A-list performers and comedy acts. Charter buses can easily drop off guests at the main entrance, and riders can leave valuables or shopping bags safely on board. For corporate retreats or conferences, inquire about meeting spaces and team-building packages. With so many amenities under one roof, Fantasy Springs is ideal for bachelor/bachelorette parties, convention shuttles, or a night out during a multi-day tour.

Indio Performing Arts Center

45175 Fargo St, Indio, CA 92201

Support local arts with a group outing to the Indio Performing Arts Center (IPAC). This modern theater complex hosts musicals, plays, dance recitals, film screenings, and community events year-round. Their lineup includes both regional talent and touring productions, making it easy to find something that appeals to students, seniors, or adult audiences. IPAC frequently offers group discounts and pre-show receptions for larger parties. Arrive by bus to avoid parking hassles, and let everyone enjoy the show without worrying about designated drivers. If you’re visiting with a youth group or drama club, ask about backstage tours or workshops with resident artists.

Augustine Casino

84001 Avenue 54, Coachella, CA 92236

Located just a short drive from Indio in nearby Coachella, Augustine Casino provides a more intimate gaming experience for adults. This casino features hundreds of slot machines and video poker terminals, plus several dining options ranging from casual buffets to upscale steakhouses. It’s a favorite stop for groups seeking a quieter alternative to the mega-resorts but still wanting excitement and hospitality. Buses can unload guests right by the entrance, and free parking is available for oversized vehicles. Consider adding Augustine Casino to your itinerary as a lunch break or evening activity during a regional tour of the eastern Coachella Valley.

Indio Grand Marketplace

82227 CA-111, Indio, CA 92201

Bargain hunters and culture lovers will have a blast at the Indio Grand Marketplace, formerly known as the Indio Swap Meet. This sprawling open-air market operates on weekends and boasts hundreds of vendors selling everything from clothing and electronics to handmade crafts and fresh produce. Live music stages, international food stalls, and carnival rides create a festive atmosphere that’s fun for all ages. Groups can split up to explore different sections, then regroup at designated bus pick-up zones. The marketplace is especially lively during holiday seasons or special event weekends when additional entertainment and giveaways are offered. It’s an excellent spot for affordable shopping and people-watching.

Joshua Tree National Park

Visitor Center: 6554 Park Blvd, Joshua Tree, CA 92252

While not technically within city limits, Joshua Tree National Park is close enough to Indio to serve as a memorable day trip destination. Naturalists, hikers, and photographers flock here to marvel at otherworldly rock formations, desert wildflowers, and the park’s namesake yucca trees. Charter buses provide a safe and efficient way to transport large groups to trailheads, visitor centers, and scenic overlooks without the risk of car caravans getting separated. Popular activities include guided nature walks, geology talks, and stargazing programs—the park is renowned for its dark skies. Permits may be required for commercial tour buses, so coordinate with park rangers well in advance and plan restroom breaks accordingly, as facilities are limited in remote areas.

Lake Cahuilla Veterans Regional Park

58075 Jefferson St, La Quinta, CA 92253

Outdoor recreation abounds at Lake Cahuilla Veterans Regional Park, a tranquil reservoir set against the Santa Rosa Mountains. Ideal for nature groups or family reunions, the park offers fishing, kayaking, horseback riding, and miles of hiking and biking trails. Picnic pavilions, playgrounds, and barbecue grills make it easy to host a cookout or group meal. Birdwatchers can spot herons, egrets, and migratory waterfowl along the shoreline. The park welcomes charter buses and has designated parking areas for oversized vehicles. Arrange a ranger-led program or wildlife talk for educational groups, or simply relax by the water’s edge and enjoy the scenery.

Coachella Valley Preserve

29200 Thousand Palms Canyon Rd, Thousand Palms, CA 92276

Rounding out our list is the Coachella Valley Preserve, a hidden gem for eco-tourism and environmental education. This 880-acre sanctuary protects rare palm oases, sand dunes, and endangered species like the fringe-toed lizard. Boardwalk trails wind through lush wetlands and ancient palm groves, offering a glimpse into the region’s prehistoric landscape. Guided hikes and interpretive programs are available for groups interested in geology, botany, or conservation. The preserve’s rustic visitor center can accommodate classroom-style presentations or nature workshops. Bus access is permitted on the main road, but some parking lots have size restrictions—contact staff ahead of time to arrange suitable drop-off points. The preserve is especially beautiful during spring wildflower blooms or after winter rains.

Book Your Indio Charter Bus Rental Today

No matter which attractions you choose, renting a charter bus ensures your group travels together safely and comfortably across Indio and the greater Coachella Valley. Customize your itinerary to mix and match historical sites, natural wonders, shopping districts, and entertainment venues—all while enjoying premium onboard amenities and personalized service. Our team is available 24/7 to help you select the perfect bus, finalize logistics, and secure the best rates. Call 442-933-6810 today for an instant quote and get ready to explore Indio’s best destinations with ease!