Planning a quick getaway? Sometimes 3 days seems like it won't be enough time to relax and explore, but with a good plan in place you can make the most of your long weekend or midweek escape. If we were planning a 3 day vacation in Indio, here's what we would do.
Day 1: Settle In and Explore Local Gems
Because Indio is just a short drive from Southern California locations, most visitors can arrive on day 1 of the trip with plenty of time (and energy) to explore.
Once you arrive, check into your vacation rental—trust us, this sets the tone for your entire trip. Unlike hotels, a vacation home gives you space to spread out, a full kitchen to enjoy breakfast on your own time, and a true taste of local living. Plus, if you’re traveling with friends or family, it's often more affordable per person than booking multiple hotel rooms.
After you get settled, head out to explore some of Indio's local gems. You might like:
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Shields Date Garden: This local icon is more than just a date farm—grab a famous date shake, walk the garden trail, and check out the retro vibes.
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Coachella Walls Art Walk: Head to downtown Coachella (just minutes away) to see the colorful, large-scale murals celebrating the area's culture and history.
Wrap up your first evening with dinner at Big Rock Pub, where you'll find great food and live music, or TKB Bakery, a funky, top-rated sandwich spot that's a favorite with both locals and tourists.
Day 2: Get Outside and Explore Nearby Areas
On day 2, you'll have a chance to get started early and spend the cooler morning hours outside. After coffee and breakfast on the patio of your vacation rental (yes, mornings in the desert are magical), it's time to get outside. Then you can kick off an active day of exploring with a morning hike at the nearby La Quinta Cove, just 20 minutes away. The trails range from easy to challenging and offer stunning desert mountain views, with something for everyone.
The Greater Palm Springs area is also a great place to plan a day trip. Consider planning a short drive to:
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Palm Springs (30 mins away): Stroll downtown, ride the Aerial Tramway, shop until you drop, or grab lunch with a view.
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The Living Desert Zoo & Gardens in Palm Desert: You will find a perfect mix of wildlife, desert plant life, and scenic walking paths at this must-see destination.
Day 3: Culture, Markets, and Chill
The last day is perfect for some real rest. If you have time before check-out, soak up the sun one last time on the patio or with a dip in the pool, and start dreaming about your next visit. On your way out, explore markets, restaurants, or museums. Some favorite spots include:
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Indio’s Farmers Market (open seasonally)
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Coachella Valley History Museum: Small but packed with local flavor, and a great way to understand the roots of the area.
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Shops in Old Town La Quinta: Charming boutiques, galleries, and cafés perfect for a final stroll.
Bonus Tip: Choose a Vacation Rental Instead of a Hotel
With only 3 days, every minute counts. A great vacation rental provides some advantages you won't get in a hotel. You can unwind in privacy after a busy day of exploring, enjoy your own kitchen to save money and eat on your schedule, and relax poolside or fireside without crowds or noise, not worrying about waiting for a less crowded moment or missing your chance.
Our luxury Indio vacation rental is perfect for a luxurious getaway, featuring:
- 5 bedrooms and 5 bathrooms, with space for up to 12
- 40 foot saltwater pool with tanning ledge and lounge chairs
- Outdoor kitchen with Thor BBQ, pizza oven, and more
- Outdoor living space with HDTV
- Lawn games
- Putting green
- Movie theater
- Game room
- Gourmet kitchen
Ready to book a stay at the Brooklyn Penthouse? We can't wait to host you.