Coachella Valley: 15 Best Things To Do

Consisting of Thermal, Palm Springs, Indio, La Quinta and more, Coachella Valley is a collection of California desert oases just waiting to be explored. Whether your ideal vacation consists of pool days, a trip to the spa, cabana lounging, a trip to Joshua Tree National Park, or creating the best bachelorette party imaginable, Coachella Valley is the perfect place for you and your crew to get away.

Coachella Valley: 15 Best Things To Do 
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One of the best parts about staying in the Californian desert is the plethora of AvantStay Homes you have to choose from. We included some vacation homes in this list because not only are they your home base, but these stays also come with tons of great activities for the whole group to let loose. It was hard to choose our favorites, but dive in to see some of the top-recommended vacation homes in Coachella Valley.

Catch a Festival

Arguably the main reason this area is so well-known is its plethora of festivals. Coachella Valley Music and Arts Festival, Palm Springs Film Festival, BNP Paribas Open, and Tour de Palm Springs are all great things to try and catch on your trip to the desert.

Stay at Mesquite38 in Thermal, CA

A diamond in the rough, Mesquite38 is an estate nestled under (you guessed it) 38 Mesquite trees. Located in the town of Thermal, this 8 bed, 9 bath home is a desert playground fit for up to 18 guests with its modern farmhouse, intentional interior design, oversized hot tub, 60ft pool, 2 bocce ball courts, a tennis court, beach volleyball, 6 cruiser bikes, a gym with a Peloton, and so much more you’ll just have to see for yourself on our site.

Eat at Truss & Twine - Palm Springs, CA

Come for the cocktails, stay for the excellent food. Here the menu changes often as most of its ingredients are locally grown and selected. While the menu changes, the staff stays revered as highly knowledgeable on all things alcohol and always present with a friendly attitude.

Cabot’s Pueblo Museum - Desert Hot Springs, CA

This home, built in 1941, was crafted as a museum from the start. Inspired by the Hopi, the Pueblo Museum was created using materials found in the area, and handmade items from Cabot himself. Giving off a lovely funky vibe, it’s a desert-colored beauty you don’t want to miss.

Stay at Mirabella - Indio, CA

Another small desert town located in Coachella Valley, Indio, is home to the mother of all equestrian compounds: Mirabella. This property comprises three homes with oritental and Mediterranean design, a saltwater pool, and seamless indoor/outdoor living. Outdoor activities include a 5-hole pitch and putt golf course, a private lake with a dock, kayak, and paddle boat, and beautifully kept horse stables. P.S. - if you’re looking for your wedding venue, I think you just found it. 

Brunch at Elmer’s Restaurant - Palm Springs, CA

It’s always time for brunch. Make your way to Elmer’s for delicious German pancakes, baked in the oven and seasoned to perfection. They also have great Eggs Benny, omelets, skillets, and more.

Living Desert Zoo and Gardens - Palm Desert, CA

Ever wanted to see desert animals, but don’t have the stamina to explore the actual desert to find them? Same. That’s why the Living Desert Zoo and Gardens is here - to not only give you a first eye experience of the animals and plants themselves, but to also conserve and preserve their natural habitats.

Stay at The Wesley Hotel by AvantStay - Palm Springs, CA

If you’re feeling more like engaging a nostalgic side, head on over to Palm Springs for a boutique hotel experience like no other. Equally rich in its history and views, this desert town is great for a girl’s getaway, bachelorette trip, or a romantic getaway. Come to The Wesley Hotel by AvantStay ready to relax by the expansive pool, in your hotel room’s private courtyard, or cozy up in the AC with its fun interiors. Book one room or book the whole hotel - The Wesley is your playground.

Joshua Tree National Park - Joshua Tree, CA

You’ve seen it in TV, magazines, your Pinterest board, your IG feed - it’s time you make a trip yourself. Joshua Tree National Park is one of those natural beauties you just have to see in person. Take a 45mi trip to JTree and walk the Cholla Cactus Garden Loop. You won’t regret it.

Grab Dinner at Las Casuelas Quinta - La Quinta, CA

Phone eats first. This is a dining experience not only for your taste buds, but also for your eyes. Las Casuelas is known for its beautiful dishes and Mexi-Cali decor. I mean, just look at those flowers.

Desert Adventures Red Jeep Tours & Events - Palm Desert, CA

If you don’t know, now you know. Desert Adventures Red Jeep Tours is the outdoor adventure company to check out during your desert vacation. You can enjoy great views, geology, culture, rugged driving adventures, all the while getting a chance to see local desert plants up close!

Stay at Hotel El Cid - Palm Springs, CA

Back to Palm Springs for this funky boutique hotel. As another hotel you can fully buyout, Hotel El Cid is a great place to bring the group chat, well, out of the group chat - and into vacation mode. Spend days under the shiny, white cabanas, sipping Paloma Spritz with your group. Hire a bartender from the AvantStay app to make those cocktails just the way you like them. Enjoy brunch on the family-style dining table and cheers to the good life. 

If you only knew Coachella Valley for its namesake festival, no judgment here. But now, hopefully you’re leaving ready and inspired for a desert dwelling trip you’ll talk about for years to come. Whether you end up soaking up history in the museums, engaging in local food culture, or lounging all day by the pool, we hope your Coachella Valley vacation is everything you dreamed and more! If you’re still ISO the perfect vacation home for your journey, be sure to check out all of AvantStay’s vacation homes in Coachella Valley before you go.

Cameron is a travel enthusiast with roots in NY and ATX. She frequents the blog of the premier hospitality brand AvantStay, takes the lead in designing their social media assets, and is always looking for the next adventure.