San Diegans are incredibly spoiled for choice when it comes to quick city or nature escapes. From close-by Julian to Torrey Pines or Cuyamaca Rancho, there’s something for everyone just a quick drive away. Other popular destinations include Idyllwild, Temecula, and many other gems. But, if we ever thought about Indio at all, it was likely for one reason only: the annual pilgrimage to the Empire Polo Club for Coachella or Stagecoach.
However, according to the travel experts at Fodor’s, we’ve been sleeping on a real gem here – because Indio was the only California destination named on Fodor’s prestigious Go List for 2026. It’s worth noting that they only rate 6 destinations across the entire country!
For us here in San Diego, that means that a world-class travel destination is sitting just a two-and-a-half-hour drive from us.
In with the new
To understand why Indio is having its moment, you have to look past its reputation as a festival parking lot. For decades, Indio was the unassuming underdog, kinda overshadowed by the mid-century glam of Palm Springs.
Outside of festival season, let’s just say that most people didn’t think that ‘anything’s going on’.
But recently, something’s changed. A quiet but confident transformation has been turning the city from a simple backdrop into the main event. The heart of this change? Miles Avenue. Once a sleepy corridor, it now hums with amazing restaurants ran by people who care, fun bars, and boutiques owned by locals. It’s quite a contrast to the corporate gloss you might find elsewhere. Here, the vibe is authentic stewardship instead – and that’s its magic.
A weekend in Indio
Thinking of trading the coast for the desert this winter? You won’t be disappointed! Here’s what to visit in Indio.
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Walk the Happy Alley: This revitalized spot on Miles Avenue is an Instagram-ready ‘alley’ of colorful umbrellas and cool murals. It’s a great example of the town’s new artistic identity. You’ll find art installations that once lived at music festivals and have now found permanent homes here in public squares.
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Shadow Hills: For San Diegans who love a good course but hate the crowds, Shadow Hills offers a scenic round with stunning mountain views.
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The Coachella Valley History Museum: For a slower pace, the Coachella Valley History Museum offers a fascinating look at the region’s roots.
- Shields Date Garden: Don’t miss this historic date-palm farm that dates back to the 1920s. It’s a great spot if you want a taste of local agricultural history, or if you simply enjoy a walk among palm groves.
Why should you visit Indio?
San Diego is paradise, we know it. But sometimes, you need a change of scenery. Indio offers that perfect warm winter sun (over 300 sunny days a year), mild temperatures, and a new scene that feels undiscovered. The city has finally stepped out of the shadow of its famous neighbors, and it’s waiting to be discovered. So, before the rest of the world catches on to the hype, fill up the tank and head East!