As the stars descend upon the Californian desert for weekend one of Coachella festival 2017, we've taken a look at some of the best things to see and do in neighbouring Palm Springs, which many festival-goers will be using as their base for the next few days. Music aside, there are a number of things to see and do in the area including visiting nearby Joshua Tree National Park and the Indian Canyons, or taking in the sights from the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway.
STAY:
A favourite with stars including Beyoncé and Jay Z, The Parker features a number of private villas and rooms behind its iconic orange doors, along with two outdoor swimming pools, a spa and four on-site bars and restaurants. Alternatively try L'Horizon Hotel & Spa (above), which channels an Old Hollywood vibe with just 25 guest rooms offering incredible views across Palm Springs.
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EXPLORE:
Get incredible views across the region from the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway
Get spectacular views across the region on the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway, which is the world's largest rotating tram car. The aerial car travels two and a half miles along the cliffs of Chino Canyon to an elevation of 8,516 feet, where you can dine at one of the two restaurants, hike through 50 miles of trails or camp overnight.
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Art aficionados can pay a visit to the Palm Springs Art Museum which features both contemporary and natural history collections, along with mid-century modern architecture. Alternatively explore the Joshua Tree National Park - located one hour outside of Palm Springs - for incredible nature trails and walking tours through the park, which sits where the Mojave and Colorado deserts meet. For further stunning natural views visit the Indian Canyons, the ancient home of the Agua Caliente Indians, which offer the perfect spot for hiking and horseback riding.
Villagefest takes place in Downtown Palm Springs every Thursday
One of Palm Spring's most popular attractions is VillageFest, which transforms Downtown Palm Springs every Thursday night with over 180 stalls selling street food, art, crafts, music and more.
EAT:
A Palm Springs favourite for the past 30 years, El Mirasol serves traditional Mexican fare at its two popular restaurants. Alternatively visit The Purple Palm in the Colony Palms Hotel, a well-loved brunch spot serving fresh and delicious fare including brioche French toast and Huevos Rancheros.
Get all the latest updates from Coachella 2017 here. For more details on Palm Springs check out visitpalmsprings.com.
