Did You Know? Fun Facts About the Coachella Valley

"Time Immemorial"
There are 574 federally recognized Indian Tribes in the United States and 109 recognized Tribes in the State of California.  The  Coachella Valley is home to the Agua Caliente Band of Cahuilla Indians and the Cabazon Band of Mission Indians.

It is said Cahuilla Indians have been in the Coachella Valley since “time immemorial”.  Time Immemorial means time extending beyond the reach of memory, record, or tradition, indefinitely ancient, "ancient beyond memory or record". 

The Agua Caliente Cultural Museum is home to the world’s largest indigenous archaeological project.  The Oldest artifacts in the museum, stone tools and projectile points are over 8000 yrs old.

Date Capital of the World
Known as the "Date Capital of the World," Coachella Valley is a major producer of this sweet fruit. The region's date industry began in the early 20th century, and today, it's home to workd famous Shield's Date Garden and the famous Date Shake! Originating as a festival to celebrate the end of the annual date harvest, the annual Riverside County Fair & National Date Festival welcomes over 250,000 guests each February. 
 
Palm Springs Aerial Tramway
The Palm Springs Aerial Tramway is one of the world's largest rotating aerial trams. It ascends 8,516 feet to the top of Mt. San Jacinto. Visitors are treated to breathtaking panoramic views of the valley, desert, and mountains, along with cooler temperatures at the mountain's summit.
 
California's First Golf Course
Coachella Valley boasts the distinction of having California's first golf course. The O'Donnell Golf Club in Palm Springs, established in 1896, predates many other golf courses in the state.
 
Historic La Quinta Resort
La Quinta Resort & Club, established in 1926, is a historic gem that has hosted numerous celebrities and dignitaries over the years. The resort's Spanish-style architecture, lush grounds, and world-class amenities have made it a popular retreat for those seeking luxury in the heart of the desert.
 
Forever Marilyn
In downtown Palm Springs, you'll find a giant statue of Marilyn Monroe in her iconic pose from the movie "The Seven Year Itch." This 26-foot-tall sculpture commemorates Monroe's connection to the city, where she was discovered and spent time during her career.  In 2011, the famous American artist and sculptor Seward Johnson debuted his masterpiece, a 26-foot-tall, 34,300-pound statue of Marilyn Monroe. Made of stainless steel and aluminum, the sculpture has an impressive presence and is a testament to Johnson’s talent and vision.
 
Desert Hot Springs
Coachella Valley is dotted with hot springs, with Desert Hot Springs being one of the most well-known destinations for relaxation and rejuvenation. The city boasts numerous mineral-rich hot springs resorts that draw visitors seeking therapeutic benefits from the natural mineral waters.  Long time favorite of the Hollywood set is Two Bunch Palms, which is said to have been built in the 1920s by Al Capone and served as his West Coast hideout.
 
Celebrities' Winter Retreat
Coachella Valley has long been a favorite retreat for celebrities seeking refuge from the hustle and bustle of Hollywood. Many stars have second homes in the area, contributing to its reputation as a glamorous destination. Palm Springs, in particular, has a rich history as a playground for the stars dating back to the mid-20th century.
 
Palm Springs Windmills
The iconic windmills near Palm Springs contribute not only to the region's renewable energy efforts but also create a mesmerizing landscape. 
The San Gorgonio Wind Park in Palm Springs is home to 2,700 wind turbines that were built in the 1980s, making in the oldest wind farm in the United States.  These giant wind turbines harness the strong desert winds, providing a sustainable source of power and offering a unique backdrop for visitors and photographers.  
 
Coachella Valley Music and Arts Festival
The Coachella Valley Music and Arts Festival, often referred to simply as Coachella, is one of the world's most famous music festivals. Started in 1999, it draws music lovers and celebrities from around the world to indulge in a three-day celebration of diverse musical genres, art installations, and a free-spirited atmosphere.
 
Old Town La Quinta
With its distinctive Spanish architectural style, Old Town La Quinta offers a charming blend of shops, restaurants, and public art installations. The area hosts events like the Art on Main Street, where local artists showcase their work against the backdrop of the scenic Old Town and the stunning Santa Rosa Mountains.
 
Joshua Tree National Park
While not entirely within Coachella Valley, Joshua Tree National Park is a neighboring natural wonder. The unique landscape, characterized by Joshua trees and giant boulders, attracts outdoor enthusiasts, rock climbers, and stargazers alike. The park offers a stunning contrast to the valley's lush greenery and is a must-visit destination for nature lovers.
 
Desert X Art Installations
Coachella Valley has become a canvas for contemporary art with the Desert X exhibition. This site-specific art installation project brings together artists from around the world to create thought-provoking pieces amidst the stunning desert landscape.
 
Indian Wells Tennis Garden
Hosting the prestigious BNP Paribas Open, the Indian Wells Tennis Garden is a world-class tennis facility located in Coachella Valley. Tennis enthusiasts can attend the tournament and watch top-ranked players in action.