Best Attractions On the Road to Coachella

What is it about music that speaks to all of us? Through countless genres – and countless generations – music has been moving our spirits in the most unexpected way. And, when we’re in the presence of live music, things really heat up. It unites us, draws us together, and allows us to let our hair down – even if only for a little while. 

Coachella is about to kick off and, whether or not you’ve secured tickets to the coveted event, there’s a lot to see and do in the surrounding area. This year, the entire Coachella Valley will be brimming with people on the weekends of April 11 – 14 and April 18 – 20. So, together, let’s check out a few fun things to get up to in and around the valley. 

Palms to Pines Scenic Byway

Let’s begin with one of the best routes to the all-star performances. If you’re driving into the Coachella Valley from the south, this is the only way. Technically, it’s Highway 74, but it’s also known as the Palms to Pines Scenic Byway. 

You can start your journey at the Santa Rosa and San Jacinto Mountains National Monument visitor center and then hit the open road. Hopefully, you have a manual transmission because the switchbacks are way too much fun. Also, the mountains on either side provide a little bit of shade – enough to keep you cool until you get into the heart of the action. 

Sunnylands Center & Gardens

Sunnylands is an apropos name for this desert oasis in Rancho Mirage. As the former home of two philanthropists and U.S. Ambassadors to the U.K., the home itself is quite lovely – and you can tour it, too. 

Then, there are an additional 200 acres to explore, chock-full of desert plants like aloe, agave, cacti, and more. They call it a desert art garden and that, too, is aptly named. With rotating art exhibitions, a cafe, and a gift shop, this is an all-around wholesome experience you’ll enjoy, from start to finish. 

Cabot’s Pueblo Museum

Cabot Yerxa was a former Native American rights activist who arrived in Desert Hot Springs in 1913. Alongside his mission to protect the Native Americans, he also built this most magnificent structure. 

It’s a pueblo with 150 windows and 65 doors. Each room is jam-packed with art, artifacts, and other tokens from his travels. Take a look at the website before you go because, if you time it right, you might even find a fun event on while you’re touring this one-in-a-million home. 

Moorten Botanical Garden

There’s one more garden in the area worthy of an honorable mention. Moorten Botanical Garden is much smaller than Sunnylands, but still worth a visit. With about 3,000 desert plants from all over the world, it provides another nice respite before or after the festivities. 

Amidst the agave and cacti, there’s also a sparkling display of crystals, rocks, and fossils to enjoy. When you’re through, you’ll probably want to patronize the gift shop so you can take a pretty little cactus home with you as a memento.