Cowboy Adventures in Greater Palm Springs: Extend Your Stagecoach Festival Experience
Every April, the Stagecoach Festival transforms Indio's Empire Polo Club into a hub for top country music, infusing Greater Palm Springs with authentic Western spirit. After enjoying premier performances, extend the excitement with exceptional barbecue, lively saloons, and scenic horseback rides throughout the region.
Smoke Tree Stables
Experience the rugged beauty of Greater Palm Springs on horseback at Smoke Tree Stables. Suitable for beginners and experienced riders alike, guided tours through Murray Canyon and the Santa Rosa Mountains evoke the Wild West. All horses, gear, and expert guides are provided for a seamless adventure.
Tack Room Tavern
Adjacent to the polo grounds, Tack Room Tavern offers a rustic dining experience perfect before or after a match. Featuring saddle bar seats, horseshoe decor, and hearty country fare, it frequently hosts live music and karaoke in the evenings.
Pappy & Harriet’s
A must-visit in historic Pioneertown near Joshua Tree National Park, Pappy & Harriet’s delivers classic barbecue in a genuine Old West setting. Savor steaks, ribs, and chili amid wooden interiors and pool tables, or dine al fresco in the scenic back picnic area.
Fun fact: This iconic spot also serves as a premier music venue, attracting local talent and headliners for unforgettable shows.
Neil’s Lounge
Indio's Neil’s Lounge, a beloved Western-themed saloon, extends Stagecoach festivities with its cowboy decor and renowned karaoke. Locals and visitors alike flock here to sing their favorite country hits.
Fun fact: Festival headliners like Keith Urban have made surprise appearances, even joining karaoke sessions.
Country Night at LIT, Fantasy Springs
Every Thursday, LIT Lounge at Fantasy Springs Resort Casino hosts a lively country hoedown with live music, line dancing, and themed drinks—no cover charge. Start with BBQ at the adjacent POM restaurant for the full experience.
Babe’s Bar-B-Que & Brewhouse
Refuel after Stagecoach at Babe’s Bar-B-Que & Brewhouse in Rancho Mirage's The River. Indulge in ribs, tri-tip sandwiches, and barbecue chicken paired with sides like coleslaw and award-winning house brews.
Smoke Tree BBQ Bar & Grill
In Palm Springs, Smoke Tree BBQ Bar & Grill offers regional favorites from Carolina pulled pork to Texas brisket in a cozy, distressed-wood setting. Finish with bread pudding or pecan pie.
Empire Polo Club
Beyond music festivals, the Empire Polo Club hosts polo matches from January to April on the same storied grounds. Enjoy tailgating, watch equestrian action under the sun, and immerse in genuine country tradition.
