Synonymous with one of the biggest music festivals in the United States, Coachella lies in the Colorado Desert south-east of Palm Springs. It was originally established in 1876 as the rail siding of “Woodspur” before becoming an agricultural hub for the cultivation of citrus fruits and date palms. Today, Coachella is one of the fastest-growing cities in California.
Things to do in Coachella
In the heart of Coachella is Coachella Veterans Memorial Park, a palm-studded green space alongside the Coachella Library and City Hall. It houses cultural events and festivities throughout the year, as well as the Veterans Day pancake breakfast. Nearby are local eateries where you can grab a bite to eat, including Jalisco, the Coachella Smoke Co. and Sixth Street Coffee.
Nearby is the Coachella Valley History Museum, which comprises an early 20th-century schoolhouse, a 1930s residence and an exhibition dedicated to California date palms. Learn about the women who have shaped the valley at the “Women Behaving Badly for Good” exhibit before wandering through the Japanese Memorial Garden and the Dr. Carreon Desert Garden. Artefacts, pottery and artwork from the area’s Native American people are also on display.
Coachella makes an excellent base for exploring Joshua Tree National Park, a sprawling tract of desert renowned for its striking rock formations and twisted trees. You can spot bighorn sheep and desert tortoises along the Indian Cove Nature Trail or tackle the legendary climbing routes at Echo Cove. Don’t miss the wooden loop walkway that leads through the Cholla Cactus Garden.
Getting around Coachella
Coachella is around 35 minutes’ drive from Palm Springs and Palm Springs International Airport, which has seasonal flights to destinations across North America. Buses connect to Coachella, although renting a car will give you greater freedom to explore the area.