Come see for yourself this outstanding and eclectic and colorful collection of Mexican folk art, including textiles, pottery, costumes, and wooden toys. This exhibit captures the vibrant spirit and life of this amazing artwork.

Come and enjoy an eclectic collection of Mexican folk art representing many Mexican artisans of textiles, pottery, costumes and wooden toys displayed in the museum’s very own 1926 Smiley-Tyler Adobe House, a fascinating venue filled with amazing history.

Once the private personal residence of Dr. Smiley and Dr. Tyler, this building now houses many of our most popular attractions: The Desert Cahuilla People Room, Water & Agriculture Exhibit Area, Heritage Room - this years annual rotating exhibit, Railroad & Fire Department Room, The 1930's and 1940's Kitchen, and the Pioneer Hall.

Visit us to learn their amazing story and how the Smiley-Tyler families enriched the fabulous history of this one-of-a-kind, truly historical campus property.

Where did dates originate? How have they evolved? How did they make their way to the Coachella Valley? Experience the culture of the Coachella Valley Date through this historical exhibition that covers the history of the world’s oldest cultivated crop – the date palm. From its origins in the Middle East to its introduction to Coachella Valley and up to the modern-day, you can learn about the horticulturalists and essential workers who helped the date palm take hold.

A real trip back in time, the 1909 Indio Schoolhouse - Indio's third school- was transferred to the museum grounds in 1999. The school was originally built with help from the Southern Pacific Railroad, something that is clear in the early train depot design. Student desks are set up as they were so long ago, complete with slate boards for writing lessons. The 1909 Indio Schoolhouse is truly a must-see!

If you’re not careful, this might become your new favorite place to see art. Renovated in 2012 with the help of the Indio Sunrise Rotary Club and the Woman's Club of Indio, Pioneer Hall is Indio’s hub for local artists to come together, proudly hosting their rotating artwork and commemorating the talent of Indio’s most creative artist. It also serves as a venue for intimate gatherings both public and private.

Available land and water brought people to the Coachella Valley to grow fruits, vegetables and hay over 100 years ago before there were any automobiles or air conditioners. Paying homage to the pioneers, cultivators, railroad workers and blacksmiths this array of tools, structures and equipment are on display to give a sense of how this valley was being transformed to pave the way for the 21st century.