Coachella Valley History Museum

Address: 82616 Miles Ave, Indio, CA 92201
Phone Number: (760) 342-6651
Website: cvhm.org

Coachella Valley History Museum is an Indio campus operated by the Coachella Valley Historical Society. Its historic buildings, gardens, outdoor displays, and artifact-focused exhibitions invite visitors to explore the evolving history of the Coachella Valley in a walkable setting.

A Campus of Valley Stories

The museum preserves, interprets, and shares artifacts that document the Coachella Valley’s evolving history. On the grounds, visitors can move among historic buildings, gardens, and outdoor displays rather than remaining in a single gallery. This campus format supports a varied visit that connects local places, objects, and community stories.

Rooms and Exhibits to Explore

The Smiley-Tyler House includes the Desert Cahuilla People Room, water and agriculture area, railroad and fire department room, and a period kitchen. Other exhibits include the Date Museum, Corazón de México, Japanese gardens, and railway features. Together, these areas trace subjects that have shaped the valley and its communities.

An Early Indio Schoolhouse

The museum grounds include the Indio Schoolhouse, the town’s third school, with a Southern Pacific Railroad train-depot design. Inside, period desks and slate boards help present the building’s schoolhouse character. It is one part of a larger campus where buildings and exhibits offer different entry points into local history.

Admission is ticketed, while archive visits and private tours are by appointment. The museum operates on a seasonal schedule — check ahead before you go. The historic campus includes gardens and outdoor displays to explore.