Exploring the Bohemian History of Sports in Coachella, CA

Coachella is wellknown for its vibrant and eclectic arts scene, but few people know about the areas rich sporting history. From early Native American games to modernday music festivals with a focus on fitness, Coachella has always been a hub for sports lovers. Here are some of the best places to explore the history of sports while also capturing the freespirited and alternative vibe that defines this unique California community:

1. Cabazon Dinosaurs (50770 Seminole Dr, Cabazon, CA 92230)

While not strictly speaking sportsrelated, no trip to Coachella would be complete without visiting these iconic roadside giants. Built in 1964 by sculptor Claude K. Bell as part of his Wheel Inn restaurant complex, these dinosaurs have been featured in numerous TV shows and films over the yearsincluding Peewees Big Adventureand have become something of an unofficial symbol for Route 66 nostalgia.

2. Yuma Territorial Prison State Historic Park (220 N Madison Ave, Yuma, AZ 85364)

Just across the Colorado River from Coachella sits one of Arizonas most fascinating historical sites: The Yuma Territorial Prison State Historic Park. Opened in 1876 and closed just three decades later due to overcrowding concerns (among other issues), this prison housed some notorious inmates during its short lifespanincluding stagecoach robber Pearl Hartand provides a window into what life was like behind bars in the Old West.

3. Old Indio Jailhouse Museum (82720 Miles Ave., Indio CA 92201)

Built in 1929 as part of Indios civic center complex on Towne Street between Smurr Street and Requa Avenue,(now called Martin Luther King Boulevard)the small jailhouse at first provided police office space until that too became inadequate. The Old Jail has a colorful history and is now the home of the Indio Historical Society.

4. Joshua Tree National Park (74485 National Park Dr, Twentynine Palms, CA 92277)

Named for its distinctive trees that dot the landscape, Joshua Tree National Park offers some of Californias best hiking and rock climbing opportunitiesalong with breathtaking scenic vistas you wont find anywhere else in the state. With over 800,000 acres to explore, theres something for everyone here whether youre an experienced mountaineer or just looking for a peaceful nature walk.

5. Coachella Valley Music and Arts Festival (81800 Avenue 51 Indio, CA 92201)

While it may not be what most people think of when they hear sports, this annual eventlaunched in 1999has become one of Coachellas biggest draws thanks to its focus on music and fitness activities like yoga classes and cycling workshops. Held every April at the Empire Polo Club in Indio, it attracts hundreds of thousands of attendees each year.

Whether youre into ancient Native American games or modernday festivals with a sporting twist, theres plenty to discover about Coachellas rich sporting traditions if you know where to look!