Shields Date Garden
A historic 17-acre date farm in Indio, CA, offering lush gardens, unique Biblical sculptures, and the world-famous date shake.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Escape the desert heat
Shields Date Garden
Best Time
Escape the desert heat
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A historic 17-acre date farm in Indio, CA, offering lush gardens, unique Biblical sculptures, and the world-famous date shake.
"This hidden gem in Indio, California, is a true desert oasis with lush gardens and the most delicious date shakes!"
🎯 Try the Date Shake!
Don't leave without tasting the legendary date shake – it's a creamy, sweet sensation!
🚶♀️ Explore the Gardens
Take a peaceful walk through the lush gardens and admire the unique Biblical sculptures.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
World-Famous Date Shake
Indulge in the creamy, sweet, and iconic date shake – a true desert delight that's a must-try for every visitor.
Biblical Garden Walk
Garden Path
Stroll through a peaceful, lush garden featuring life-sized Biblical-themed sculptures and learn about date cultivation.
Date Tastings & Gift Shop
Sample a variety of delicious dates and find unique date products, jams, and treats in the historic gift shop.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Desert Heat
Don't Miss the Date Shake!
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Try the Date Shake!
Don't leave without tasting the legendary date shake – it's a creamy, sweet sensation!
🚶♀️ Explore the Gardens
Take a peaceful walk through the lush gardens and admire the unique Biblical sculptures.
🛍️ Sample Date Varieties
Enjoy date tastings to discover your favorite flavors before buying from the shop.
☕ Cafe Delights
Enjoy breakfast or lunch at The Cafe at Shields, with drink specials available.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Try the Date Shake!
Don't leave without tasting the legendary date shake – it's a creamy, sweet sensation!
🚶♀️ Explore the Gardens
Take a peaceful walk through the lush gardens and admire the unique Biblical sculptures.
🛍️ Sample Date Varieties
Enjoy date tastings to discover your favorite flavors before buying from the shop.
☕ Cafe Delights
Enjoy breakfast or lunch at The Cafe at Shields, with drink specials available.
♿ Accessible Pathways
The garden pathways are paved and suitable for strollers and wheelchairs.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Shields Date Garden is a beloved desert gem, praised for its delicious and iconic date shakes, peaceful gardens with unique Biblical sculptures, and a rich history dating back to the 1920s. Visitors appreciate the friendly staff and the opportunity to sample a variety of dates. Some find the educational film about date pollination a bit surprising, but overall, it's considered a unique and worthwhile stop.
"It's definitely a hidden gem in the middle of the desert. Most people might come across this building and not bat an eye, but inside are some of the best date shakes you will probably ever have. They have an excellent garden where you can see all their amazing plants while looking at the history of Jesus. I recommend you take a walk in their garden when it's not too hot. If you're looking for a refreshing sip in the middle of the desert, it's a great place to go."
Brenan Loo
"A unique place. My kids enjoyed the walk through the farm and LOVED the date shake! The video- maybe not for kids? Found it slightly interesting that a date tree sex video was paired with bible verses on the date tree walk. Still a unique place worth visiting."
Kristen greazel
"Very cute and historic spot! I was in the area for a couple of days, and a friend recommended that we try a date shake. It was my first time visiting, and I found it absolutely charming. We chose to come during the week, which worked out well; even though the garden was closed for an event, it was still enjoyable to explore.
Shields is a date farm that dates back to the 1920’s when other date farms were thriving in the area. These farms were a popular stop for visitors and even celebrities! Fun fact: a single male date palm can pollinate up to 10 female date palms, depending on the variety.
Now, back to the visit—the date shake was absolutely delicious! If you don’t buy anything else, make sure to try this shake. They also offered date tastings for just 50 cents. My favorites were the Thoory dates; I loved their slightly dry texture and gentle crunch. The Deglet and Blonde dates were a bit too sweet for my taste, but overall, everything was delicious! I highly recommend stopping by!"
Tawny V
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Shields Date Garden is located in Indio, California, about a two-hour drive east of Los Angeles. It's easily accessible by car, making it a popular stop for those traveling through the Coachella Valley.
Yes, there is ample parking available at Shields Date Garden for visitors.
Absolutely! Many travelers find Shields Date Garden a refreshing and unique stop on road trips through Southern California, especially for its famous date shakes.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry to the gardens and the shop is generally free, though specific events might have separate admission. The main attraction, the date shake, and other products are for purchase.
Shields Date Garden is typically open daily from 8 AM to 2 PM, with the cafe also operating during these hours. It's always a good idea to check their official website or social media for the most up-to-date hours.
The garden walk is generally accessible without a separate entrance fee, making it a great value for visitors.
While specific coupon codes aren't widely advertised, visiting during off-peak times or checking their social media might offer insights into promotions.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can enjoy a walk through the lush Biblical garden, sample various dates, try the famous date shake, and shop for date products. The cafe also serves breakfast and lunch.
Yes, the garden pathways are paved and designed to be accessible for strollers and wheelchairs, making it easy for everyone to explore.
Shields Date Garden features an educational film about the pollination process of date palms, which some find entertaining and informative, though it has been noted as potentially surprising for younger audiences.
Yes, Shields Date Garden offers clean and accessible restrooms for visitors.
The lush gardens and unique Biblical sculptures provide a picturesque backdrop for photos.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The absolute must-try is the world-famous date shake, known for its creamy texture and delicious flavor. Date tastings and date ice cream are also highly recommended.
The cafe offers breakfast and lunch options, including date-themed dishes like date pancakes and date burgers. They also have drink specials like mimosas and bloody Marys.
Yes, the gift shop offers a wide variety of dates, including Thoory, Deglet, and Blonde varieties, along with other date products.
While specific options aren't detailed, the cafe may offer vegetarian choices. The date shakes are dairy-based, but date tastings are naturally vegan.
There is limited seating around the ice cream bar, and the cafe likely has additional seating for dining.
📸 📸 Photography
The lush garden paths, the life-sized Biblical sculptures, and the vibrant date palms offer numerous picturesque opportunities for photography.
Yes, visitors are encouraged to take photos throughout the gardens to capture the unique scenery and sculptures.
Generally, personal photography is allowed. However, it's always wise to be mindful of other visitors and avoid intrusive photography, especially if there are private events.
Early morning or late afternoon light provides softer, more flattering light for photography, especially when capturing the garden's greenery and sculptures.
Yes, the date trees are a central feature of the garden and make for excellent photographic subjects, showcasing the farm's heritage.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While the Biblical sculptures and the 'sex life of the date' film are part of the experience, parents might want to gauge their children's interest or be prepared to explain the content. Overall, it's a unique stop that provides a taste of local history and a delicious treat for the whole family.
💰 Budget Travelers
The main cost is for purchases like the renowned date shake or items from the gift shop. Even if you only buy a shake or a small tasting, it's a worthwhile indulgence that provides a memorable experience without breaking the bank.
couples
Share a delicious date shake or explore the gift shop for a sweet souvenir. It’s a low-key, enjoyable experience that provides a pleasant break from the usual tourist hustle, perfect for a casual date or a relaxing afternoon.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The History and Legacy of Shields Date Garden
Generations later, Shields Date Garden continues to operate, preserving its heritage while adapting to modern tastes. The iconic date shake, a creamy blend of dates and ice cream, has become synonymous with the brand and a major draw for visitors. The farm also educates visitors about the fascinating process of date pollination, including a unique film that explains the 'sex life of the date.'
Beyond the delicious treats and historical insights, Shields Date Garden has evolved to include a beautifully landscaped garden path featuring life-sized Biblical sculptures. This serene walk offers a peaceful escape and a unique visual experience, adding another layer to the attraction's appeal. It's a testament to the Shields family's vision of creating a memorable and multi-faceted destination.
Experiencing the Gardens and Sculptures
+1Many visitors find the garden to be a surprisingly serene and inspiring experience, a welcome contrast to the desert landscape. It's a place where you can take your time, soak in the peaceful ambiance, and appreciate the thoughtful design. The combination of the natural beauty and the artistic installations makes for a memorable stroll.
While the garden is a highlight, it's recommended to visit during the cooler parts of the day, such as early morning or late afternoon, to fully enjoy the outdoor experience without the intense desert heat.
The Allure of the Date Shake
+1Many reviews and social media posts highlight the date shake as the primary reason for their visit, with many calling it the 'best date shake' they've ever had. The sweetness and texture are often praised, making it a perfect refreshment, especially on a warm desert day.
Beyond the shake, Shields also offers date tastings, allowing you to sample different varieties like Thoory, Deglet, and Blonde dates. This is a great way to discover your personal favorite and learn more about the fruit before purchasing products from their extensive gift shop.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit