Empire Polo Club
Iconic desert venue, home to Coachella and professional polo, offering diverse events from music festivals to holiday lights.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Coachella's electrifying atmosphere
Empire Polo Club
Best Time
Coachella's electrifying atmosphere
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Iconic desert venue, home to Coachella and professional polo, offering diverse events from music festivals to holiday lights.
"A destination unlike any other, fitting for six headliners. 
🚗 Ride Share Drop-off
For Uber/Lyft, aim for 51st Ave for drop-offs and 49th for day car camping. Traffic can be heavy. :car:
👟 Comfortable Footwear is Key
You'll be doing a lot of walking on this massive property. Prioritize comfort! :athletic_shoe:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Coachella Main Stage
Main Festival Grounds
The iconic heart of the festival, where headliners and major acts perform. A must-see for any music lover.
The Gobi Tent
Festival Grounds
Known for its intimate yet energetic performances, this tent hosts many rising stars and fan favorites.
Polo Matches
Polo Fields
Experience the thrill of live polo games, a unique offering at this versatile venue.
Magic of Lights
Festival Grounds
A dazzling holiday drive-through light show, perfect for festive family fun.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Coachella Crowds
Navigating the Vast Grounds
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Ride Share Drop-off
For Uber/Lyft, aim for 51st Ave for drop-offs and 49th for day car camping. Traffic can be heavy. :car:
👟 Comfortable Footwear is Key
You'll be doing a lot of walking on this massive property. Prioritize comfort! :athletic_shoe:
🗺️ Download Offline Maps
Cell service can be spotty during major events. Ensure you have maps downloaded for navigation. :iphone:
💧 Stay Hydrated
The desert heat is no joke. Bring plenty of water or know where to refill your bottles. :droplet:
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Ride Share Drop-off
For Uber/Lyft, aim for 51st Ave for drop-offs and 49th for day car camping. Traffic can be heavy. :car:
👟 Comfortable Footwear is Key
You'll be doing a lot of walking on this massive property. Prioritize comfort! :athletic_shoe:
🗺️ Download Offline Maps
Cell service can be spotty during major events. Ensure you have maps downloaded for navigation. :iphone:
💧 Stay Hydrated
The desert heat is no joke. Bring plenty of water or know where to refill your bottles. :droplet:
🎟️ Ticket Scams Beware
Be cautious of unofficial ticket sellers, especially for Coachella. Stick to reputable sources. :ticket:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise the Empire Polo Club's versatility, hosting everything from massive music festivals like Coachella to professional polo matches and dazzling holiday light shows. The venue's vastness and desert charm are often highlighted, though some note the potential for getting lost and the need for better signage during large events.
"Great place for lacrosse tournament. If love to go to Coachella here but the place is beautiful. It's a lush valley with amazing views like sitting in a bowl of mountains."
John Austin
"The event was very enjoyable and entertaining. Lulu's was food vendor that made a variety of tasty food. From there signature Taco plates to Sliders and Tots. There was Indian Cuisine as well and dessert stands."
Michael Jackson
"Went for Powertrip Festival October 2023.
Camping field well presented and organized. Pitch was small so could only fit car, small tent and a fw deck chairs. Toilet and showering facilities regularly cleaned and were immaculate.
Festival field split ino several areas depending on ticket price paid.
Massive stage with full screen background.
Bar prices expensive. Approximately $15 for a can of beer (2023)"
Chris Oliver
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Empire Polo Club is located in Indio, California. For Coachella, many attendees drive and park, use shuttle services, or opt for ride-sharing. GPS to 51st Ave for Uber drop-offs and 49th for day car camping.
Yes, there are various parking options including preferred lots, general admission, and day car camping. Weekend 2 often sees less traffic for parking than Weekend 1.
Shuttle passes are available for major events like Coachella, providing transportation from various points in the Coachella Valley to the festival grounds.
Yes, designated drop-off and pick-up zones are available. For Coachella, aim for 51st Ave for drop-offs and 49th for pick-ups. Be prepared for potential traffic delays.
Arriving early, especially for Weekend 2 of Coachella, can help minimize traffic. Utilizing shuttle services can also be a good alternative to driving directly.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Tickets are typically sold through official event websites or authorized third-party vendors. For Coachella, be wary of unofficial sellers to avoid scams.
Operating hours vary greatly depending on the event. For festivals like Coachella, gates open in the afternoon and close late at night. For other events, check the specific event schedule.
Policies on outside food and beverages differ per event. Coachella has specific guidelines regarding what you can bring, so check their official website before attending.
Generally, re-entry is not permitted for multi-day festivals like Coachella. Once you leave the venue, you cannot return on the same day.
Most events, especially music festivals, have restrictions on professional cameras and video equipment. Small, personal cameras are usually allowed, but check event-specific rules.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
During festivals, a wide variety of food vendors offer diverse cuisines. For private events, catering options can include gourmet meals, with accommodations for dietary needs like gluten allergies.
Yes, the venue is vast with multiple stages for music festivals, distinct areas for activities like polo, and even themed zones. It's easy to get lost without clear signage.
The terrain is primarily flat, open fields, which can be dusty, especially during hot and dry periods. Comfortable footwear is essential.
Major events usually provide accessible viewing areas and pathways. It's best to check the specific event's accessibility information beforehand.
For large festivals, portable restrooms are the norm. For smaller events or private functions, more permanent facilities are available.
📸 📸 Photography
Beyond the main stages, look for unique art installations, the polo fields during a match, or the desert landscape surrounding the venue for memorable shots.
No, professional cameras with detachable lenses are generally prohibited at Coachella. Small digital cameras or phone cameras are usually permitted.
Golden hour, just before sunset, offers beautiful lighting for outdoor photography. Midday can be harsh due to the desert sun.
The main stages during a performance, the vast festival grounds with art installations, and the polo fields with horses are all iconic photo opportunities.
Concert photography, candid shots of festival-goers, and scenic landscape photos are popular. Capturing the energy of performances is key.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
During music festivals, while the atmosphere can be lively, it's essential to be prepared for large crowds and long days. Consider bringing strollers for younger children and ensuring they have ear protection for loud music. When attending polo matches, it can be a more relaxed environment for families. The open fields provide space for kids to move around, and the excitement of the horses can be captivating. Always check the specific event's family-friendliness and any age restrictions before purchasing tickets.
🎶 Music Festival Enthusiasts
+1 Book accommodations and tickets well in advance, as they sell out quickly. Pacing yourself is key. Stay hydrated, utilize the shuttle services or plan your parking strategy carefully, and be ready for long days and nights. Explore beyond the main stages to discover new artists and hidden gems.
🐎 Equestrian and Polo Fans
Arrive early to get good vantage points and enjoy the pre-game atmosphere. Consider checking the club's schedule for specific tournament dates or exhibition games. It's a more laid-back experience compared to music festivals, allowing for a relaxed enjoyment of the sport and the beautiful desert surroundings.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Coachella Experience
+2Beyond the music, Coachella is a cultural phenomenon, known for its fashion trends and celebrity sightings. Attendees often plan their outfits meticulously, contributing to the festival's vibrant visual atmosphere. The sheer scale of the event means extensive planning is required for accommodation, transportation, and navigating the vast grounds.
While Coachella is the most prominent event, the Empire Polo Club also hosts other major festivals like Stagecoach (a country music festival) and Desert Trip (a classic rock festival), showcasing its versatility as a premier entertainment venue.
Beyond the Music: Polo and Events
The venue's expansive grounds and facilities also make it a popular choice for private events, corporate gatherings, and weddings. Its unique desert setting provides a picturesque backdrop for various celebrations. The club offers customizable event packages, ensuring a memorable experience for hosts and guests alike.
During the holiday season, the Empire Polo Club transforms into a festive wonderland with events like the Magic of Lights, a drive-through holiday light display. This offers a family-friendly and visually stunning experience distinct from the high-energy music festivals.
Navigating the Venue and Logistics
Transportation and parking are critical considerations. For Coachella, ride-sharing drop-off points are specific (e.g., 51st Ave), and traffic can be intense, particularly on Weekend 1. Shuttle services are a popular alternative for many. Downloading offline maps is highly recommended due to potential cell service disruptions.
Hydration is paramount in the desert climate. Attendees should carry ample water or know where refill stations are located. While many events offer diverse food options, checking specific venue policies on outside food and beverages is always wise.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit