Coachella Valley: More Than Just A Music Festival

02/20/2025 | by Fieldtrip Staff Writer | Things to Do

Coachella has become a word synonymous with the yearly music festival that attracts droves of A-list talent and enthusiastic concert goers. However, what many people don’t know is that Coachella Valley has plenty more to offer than its famous music festival. With its territory spanning across several cities, including Palm Springs and Joshua Tree, there is a lot more to explore than meets the eye. And the beauty is breathtaking. With a Fieldtrip property as your homebase you will discover that the Coachella Valley is enticing at any time of year with exciting activities, attractions and experiences to suit anyone’s desires. Here are some ideas to make your visit a beautiful one.

https://www.shutterstock.com/g/Andrei+Stanescu

Visit the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway

Ride up to 8,516 feet on the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway for breathtaking views and hiking trails at Mount San Jacinto State Park on this 2 ½ mile rotating tram. Take in the beautiful cliffs of Chino Canyon during a ten-minute ride to the top where you will find two restaurants, observation decks, a natural history museum, documentary movie theaters, and over 50 hiking trails. 

Relax in Desert Hot Springs

Discover the therapeutic properties of geothermal waters at one of the many spas tapping into the naturally occurring hot springs in the area. Visit Azure Palm Springs for a day trip and experience their healing waters along with an extensive menu of spa treatments. Equally lovely is Two Bunch Palms whose mineral rich waters are fed by a 600 year old spring which recharges and replenishes itself every 24 hours. Your body and soul will appreciate the visit.

shutterstock.com/g/L+Paul+Mann

The Living Desert Zoo and Gardens

Stroll Through The Living Desert Zoo and Gardens whose focus is on conservation of the vast desert landscape along with its ample wildlife.  The Living Desert also highlights desert environments of North America, Australia, and Africa with more than 150 species. Sitting on 1,200 acres of protected land the property offers miles of gorgeous hiking trails. 

shutterstock.com/g/Richard+Westlund

Palm Springs Art Museum

Discover the Palm Springs Art Museum, located in the heart of downtown Palm Springs, is a diverse showcasing of contemporary, modern, and Native American art. Founded in 1938, the museum has featured works by renowned artists such as Helen Frankenthaler, Henry Moore, and Ed Ruscha. In addition to its impressive permanent collection, the museum hosts rotating exhibitions, and special events that celebrate artistic innovation. 

Jeep Tour of the San Andreas Fault

Take a Jeep Tour of the San Andreas Fault as an exhilarating way to explore one of the most famous geological features in the world. Guided off-road adventures take visitors deep into the desert landscapes where they can witness the dramatic fault line up close. Expert guides explain the history of how tectonic forces have shaped the terrain over millions of years. With breathtaking views, a tour of the San Andreas Fault is an unforgettable experience for adventure seekers and nature lovers alike.

Sunnylands Center & Gardens

Visit the Sunnylands Center & Gardens, a stunning 200-acre estate known for its rich history, breathtaking landscape, and commitment to diplomacy and conservation. Once the private retreat of media moguls Walter and Leonore Annenberg, Sunnylands has hosted many, including U.S. presidents and foreign dignitaries. The Center, open to the public, features exhibitions, educational programs, and a serene garden. Visitors can explore its beautifully designed grounds, which include more than 70 species of native and arid-adapted plants, tranquil walking paths, and reflecting pools.

shutterstock.com/g/IzzetSafer

Coachella Valley Preserve

Check Out the Coachella Valley Preserve –a stunning natural oasis spanning over 20,000 acres in the California desert, offering a unique glimpse into the region’s diverse ecosystems. The Thousand Palms Oasis (one of the biggest attractions) is fed by underground springs from the San Andreas Fault, creating a lush habitat in the midst of an arid landscape. Visitors can explore the preserve’s rich biodiversity, geology, and history at the visitor center, and enjoy guided nature walks. With its striking contrast of desert and greenery, the Coachella Valley Preserve is a must-visit destination for outdoor enthusiasts.

The Coachella Valley is far more than just a world-famous music festival—it’s a diverse and breathtaking destination filled with natural wonders, cultural experiences, and opportunities for relaxation and adventure. Whether you’re soaring above the mountains on the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway, unwinding in Desert Hot Springs, or exploring the region’s rich art and history, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. From the dramatic landscapes of the San Andreas Fault to the serene beauty of Sunnylands and the Coachella Valley Preserve, the area offers an unforgettable escape for travelers seeking more than just music. No matter when you visit, the Coachella Valley invites you to discover its hidden gems and experience the beauty, history, and adventure it has to offer year-round.

To make your trip even more special, book a stay at the beautiful Desert Spring home, a sprawling 8-bedroom estate located in an exclusive gated community. If you have a large group looking to get away closer to Palm Springs, Limón Hotel and Auric House are both perfect spots to call home.