Discover the Eldorado Polo Club, a luxurious oasis nestled in the Coachella Valley, offering a unique blend of sport, history, and glamour. This prestigious club has become a pivotal part of the Palm Springs vacation experience, attracting polo enthusiasts and celebrities alike. With its rich history and scenic backdrop, the Eldorado Polo Club is not just a sporting venue but a cultural landmark that continues to charm visitors from around the globe.
Polo, a sport with ancient origins, found its American footing in the San Diego area, particularly on Coronado Island. However, it was the allure of the desert, with its warm climate and scenic beauty, that drew the glitterati of Hollywood to the Coachella Valley. La Quinta, a mere 20 years prior, had already become a coveted retreat for the elite, though it was known to only a select few.
The Eldorado Polo Club, with its evocative name reminiscent of the legendary South American city of gold, is fittingly situated in this desert paradise. Flanked by the San Jacinto Mountains and lying between La Quinta and Indio, California, the club offers a tropical sanctuary for those seeking an escape from the mundane.
By the 1950s, Palm Springs had begun to captivate polo players nationwide. Notably, President Dwight D. Eisenhower, who brought further fame to the region, was among the prominent figures to grace the desert with their presence. The original polo fields, once near the current Palm Springs International Airport, had to relocate due to urban development and escalating property values. This pattern of displacement and resettlement led the club to its current and third location in La Quinta.
The Eldorado Polo Club has hosted numerous distinguished guests and events, including the 1986 U.S. Open Polo Tournament, attended by Prince Charles. More recently, Prince Harry participated in a charity tournament at the club, further cementing its status as a venue of choice for royalty and philanthropy alike.
Today, the Eldorado Polo Club stands as the winter capital of polo in the United States, thanks in large part to the favorable weather conditions of the Coachella Valley. The club boasts twelve fields—ten owned and two leased from the nearby Empire Polo Club. During peak season, twenty-nine teams compete across various skill levels, from low to high-goal matches, showcasing an array of talent that caters to players and spectators of all ages.
The club is not only a haven for polo aficionados but also a significant contributor to charitable causes. It has raised substantial funds for the College of the Desert in Palm Desert and is well-known for the Barbara Sinatra Skins Polo Game, which supports services for neglected and abused children.
Located just a two-hour drive from Los Angeles and thirty minutes from Palm Springs, the Eldorado Polo Club is an accessible retreat for those seeking to indulge in the sport or simply enjoy the spectacle. Whether you're a player or a spectator, the club's enchanting environment and vibrant polo scene are sure to leave a lasting impression.
For more information on the Eldorado Polo Club and its events, visit their official website.
For a deeper dive into the history of polo and its cultural impact, explore the resources available at the United States Polo Association.
Experience the Glamour of Palm Springs Follies on Your Desert Getaway
Discover the timeless allure of the Palm Springs Follies, a unique entertainment spectacle that has become a staple in the California desert. This vibrant show, featuring a cast of seasoned performers, brings the golden era of music and dance to life. With high kicks, dazzling costumes, and a touch of humor, the Follies offer an unforgettable experience that celebrates the spirit of showbiz. Whether you're a returning fan or a first-time visitor, prepare to be captivated by the charm and talent that fill the historic Plaza Theatre.
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