Things To Do
in Coachella
Coachella, California sits in the eastern part of the Coachella Valley, framed by sun-baked mountains and a mosaic of date groves. The town serves as a gateway to desert landscapes, agricultural heritage, and a burgeoning arts scene with murals, cafés, and weekend markets. It’s a car-centric desert community where mornings stay cool and nights glow with desert colors.
As a base for exploring the broader valley, Coachella pairs a relaxed pace with easy access to nearby towns like Indio, Palm Desert, and Palm Springs.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive in Coachella and check into your accommodation, enjoying the excitement in the air as fellow festival-goers gather. Unpack your bags and familiarize yourself with the festival map and schedule, marking your must-see acts. Grab a refreshing breakfast at a local café, soaking in the warm California sun and vibrant atmosphere.
Head over to the festival grounds to set up your camp or find your accommodations, soaking in the colorful art installations and lively atmosphere. Explore various food stalls offering delicious options from around the world, making sure to taste some local favorites. Familiarize yourself with the different stages and get ready for the music to begin.
As the sun sets, the festival lights begin to dazzle, creating a magical atmosphere. Find a good spot to watch your first performance, letting the music wash over you while surrounded by fellow music lovers. After the show, wander through the festival, discovering pop-up art exhibits and unique merchandise.
Start your day with a hearty breakfast at a nearby brunch spot, fueling up for another exhilarating day at the festival. Attend a morning yoga session offered on-site to stretch and energize before diving into the music. Spend some time exploring boutique shops and local vendors, picking up unique souvenirs.
Immerse yourself in the festival's eclectic lineup as you hop between stages, discovering both emerging artists and well-known bands. Take breaks in between sets to relax in the shade, sipping on refreshing drinks and enjoying conversations with fellow festival-goers. Capture the vibrant energy of the day with photos of the stunning art installations and lively crowd.
As night falls, choose a headlining act that has been highly anticipated, gathering with friends to enjoy the electric atmosphere. After the show, explore the late-night DJ sets where you can dance under the stars. Wind down by checking out the festival's themed lounges, mingling with other attendees in a more relaxed setting.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| ☕Cup of coffee | $3-6 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel room per night | $120-220 |
| ⛳Golf round at a local course | $40-120 |
| 🎫Movie ticket | $10-15 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Easy access to desert landscapes and golf courses
- Proximity to Palm Springs and Indio for dining and culture
- Limited walkability in some neighborhoods
- Very hot summers and seasonal crowds
- Some attractions require driving longer distances
Places to Visit in Coachella
Visit one of these nice places.
Desert wetlands and palm-studded washes—great sunrise and golden-hour shots.
Colorful skies over the wind-sculpted shoreline provide dramatic, moody desert photography.
Iconic desert modern homes and motels along Palm Canyon Drive offer bold geometry and retro vibes.
Food in Coachella
Coachella Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Iconic shakes made with dates from Shields Date Garden in Indio; creamy, refreshing, and a local rite of passage.
Must-Try!
Rich, slow-cooked meat tucked into tortillas with vibrant salsa—commonly found in valley taquerias.
Sweet desserts and drinks featuring prickly pear cactus fruit common in desert menus.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Seasonal markets offering fresh produce, dates, nuts, and prepared foods from local vendors.
Evening truck offerings include tacos, elotes, and fusion bites that pop up around towns.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Be mindful of heat and personal space; avoid loud behavior in residential areas; ask before photographing people or private property.
A simple “hola” or friendly nod works; polite conversation is appreciated when negotiating prices at markets.
Safety
Tipping in Coachella
Ensure a smooth experience
Tip 15-20% at restaurants; for takeout and quick-service check if tipping is included; round up for small transactions. For taxis and rideshares, 5-15% is common if service is satisfactory.
Credit/debit cards are widely accepted; carry some cash for farmers markets and small vendors; mobile payments are common in larger venues.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild days with blooming desert flora; ideal for hiking and outdoor photography; expect light crowds and pleasant evenings.
Extreme heat; plan outdoor activities for early mornings or evenings; stay hydrated and seek shade; poolside relaxation is common.
Warm days and cooler nights; great for outdoor activities and golf; humidity stays low.
Mild to cool days and cool nights; comfortable for most outdoor adventures; occasional chilly mornings.
Coachella at Night
Hiking in Coachella
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Rugged canyons with dramatic red rock formations and sweeping desert views.
Flat, scenic trails around palm oases; great for birdwatching and easy hikes.
Popular canyon trails through palm oases with shaded canyons and scenic overlooks.
Airports
How to reach Coachella by plane.
Main regional airport serving the desert cities; short drives to Coachella and surrounding towns.
Major airport to the west of the valley with broader domestic flight options; about a 1.5–2 hour drive depending on traffic.
Smaller regional airport offering some domestic flights; useful for regional connections.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A diverse mix of families, long-time desert locals, and a growing community of seasonal residents.
Snowbirds and winter visitors who spend extended periods in the desert.
Active presence in nearby Palm Springs area with inclusive venues and events.
Agricultural workers and service industry employees who support valley communities.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The Coachella Valley is world-famous for its golf courses and tournaments; many courses are set against the desert backdrop.
Numerous clubs and resorts offer tennis facilities; a popular leisure sport in the area.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Coachella.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Most Mexican and Californian dishes can be made vegetarian; ask for cheese, bean, or veggie fillings and confirm no lard or animal broths.