Although Palm Springs is widely recognized, Indio—California’s oldest city in the Greater Palm Springs area—deserves equal attention. Known as the Coachella Valley’s “City of Festivals,” Indio has undergone a lively downtown revitalization that has transformed it into a vibrant destination for visitors and locals alike.
Founded as a railroad town by the Southern Pacific Railroad and incorporated in 1876, Indio has evolved into a bustling cultural hub. In recent years the city has welcomed more than a million visitors annually, sparking a renaissance in its downtown core. New shops, restaurants, breweries, public art installations and entertainment venues have reshaped the streetscape and energized the community.
© Visit Greater Palm Springs
One example of the new retail scene is the Urban Donkey Collective, a community-oriented group of vintage-focused shops. The collective hosts sellers such as Cool Cat Threads and Return of the Goods alongside a local juice bar called Forbidden Fruit. Nearby, Rocks and Records curates a selection of rare and classic vinyl along with vintage audio gear like speakers and turntables, appealing to collectors and music lovers.
Downtown Indio’s dining options have expanded significantly. Victoria’s Café serves breakfast, lunch and dinner with classic diner favorites and a signature line of frozen drinks called Frosties. Gabino’s Creperie East offers savory crepes—choices include carne asada, chicken pesto and chopped cheese. For a theatrical dining experience, Italica is a new speakeasy-style restaurant that combines Italian-inspired cuisine, cocktails and immersive décor for an intentionally curated evening out.
© Visit Greater Palm Springs
When temperatures climb, locals and visitors alike appreciate the additions to Indio’s craft-beer scene. Desert Beer Company’s Pizza and Pints opened this year, offering a range of food options alongside its beer selection—an inviting spot for casual meals and social gatherings.
The City of Indio recently unveiled an outdoor entertainment venue called Center Stage, located next to the new Indio Taphouse. Center Stage gained national exposure when it hosted Abi Carter, the winner of American Idol Season 22, for a hometown performance during the season finale. The Indio Taphouse itself boasts a rotating selection of around 120 beers and elevated takes on pub classics, making it a popular stop for beer aficionados.
© Visit Greater Palm Springs
Live music and public art have also taken center stage in downtown Indio. Little Street Music Hall is an all-ages venue that spotlights local acts, while Happy Alley—adorned with a canopy of colorful umbrellas and vibrant murals—adds visual energy to the corridor between Towne and Oasis streets. The artistic transformation continues across Miles Avenue, where the mural Practical Galactical brings striking imagery to the south side. This permanent public artwork features black light elements, creating a distinct glow after dark and making it one of the city’s most unique installations.
For weekly community gatherings, Food Truck Fridays occur every week from 5 to 10 p.m. at the corner of Towne Street and Bliss Avenue. The event showcases a variety of local food vendors, live entertainment and family-friendly activities, offering residents and visitors a lively social scene and a taste of Indio’s growing culinary offerings.