Coachella officially kicks off April 14 in Indio, Cali, just outside of Palm Springs. And if you’re headed down to take in the not-so-indie festival, there is a ton to check out around town beyond the epic performances. Here are your best bets on what to eat, where to sleep and the shops to check out while you’re in town.
Where to eat in Palm Springs
Norma’s
When Kim, Kourtney and Khloe road tripped through Palm Springs in March, they stopped to grab lunch at the famous Parker Hotel’s Norma’s restaurant. The Snap-worthy spot has a killer view and a whole section of their menu called “Mom Can’t Make It.” Norma’s crunchy French toast is one for the books and if you’re trying to eat clean, there’s always the no-fuss grapefruit bowl.
Go: Norma’s at The Parker Palm Springs, 4200 East Palm Canyon Dr., 760-321-4630
Elixir
You’ll go to Elixir for the drinks, but you’ll stay for the food. The Polynesian-inspired hot spot serves up Asian-fusion and Pan Asian food. While you eat up the guac and chips, tuna tartare, wontons, and bacon and egg fried rice, you’ll want to wash it all down with modern tiki cocktails. Think frozen drinks served in coconuts and topped with tropical umbrellas or fresh fruit juice infusions. It’s 5 p.m. somewhere!
Go: Elixir at V Palm Springs 333 E Palm Canyon Dr., Palm Springs, Ca 92264, 877-544-4446
Where to sleep in Palm Springs
Base Camp
Want to “rough it” this year? Base Camp‘s pop-up campground is the perfect locale for glamping, with OTT luxury tents and RV hook-ups to keep you comfy all weekend. If you want a more authentic camping experience, you can bring your own tent and pitch it for a whole lot cheaper. Regardless, you’ll get access to the pool (complete with flamingo floaties), blowdry and beauty bar, and hot air balloon rides.
Go: Base Camp, 82950 61st Ave, Thermal, CA 92274, 760-848-4165
Ace Hotel & Swim Club
There’s nothing festival-goers appreciate more than a trendy hotel, and The Ace Hotel offers that—and then some. The former mid-century Western Ho and Denny’s has been converted into 176-room hotel with two Instagramable pools and spa. It’s close to Joshua Tree, the coolest vintage shops, and minutes from downtown if you hop on a bike. But be warned, these rooms get booked up quickly.
Go: Ace Hotel & Swim Club, 701 E Palm Canyon Dr., Palm Springs, CA 92264, 760-325-9900
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Where to shop in Palm Springs
Desert Hills Premium Outlet
If you appreciate a good bang for your buck when it comes to designer purchases, you’re going to want to add Desert Hills Premium Outlet to your itinerary. The newly expanded shopping destination includes the first outlet shops for Rag & Bone and Sandro, in addition to Gucci, Barney’s New York and Prada. Selfie opps are optimal next to a giant dinosaur (the Kardashians did it, too) and Hadley’s date milkshakes are legendary.
Go: Desert Hills Premium Outlet, 48400 Seminole Dr., Cabazon, CA 92230, 951-849-6641
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The Fine Art of Design
Palm Springs is known for its designer vintage, and Coachella Valley store The Fine Art of Design has some of the best. Since it opened in 2011, owners Nicolas Delgado and Luisa Marielli have been stocking the ultra cute space with gems from locals. Racks are filled with ’90s McQueen finds, ’70s sequin Halston wrap dresses and other rare treasures. No wonder Gwyneth Paltrow approves.
GO: The Fine Art of Design, 73717 CA-III, Palm Desert; 760-565-7388
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