Embrace the Unexpected: Coachella Side Quests Await You!
It’s that enchanting time of the year again: Coachella is just around the corner, and we can almost feel the excitement of the annual desert escape. Get ready to gather your sunscreen, comfy shoes, and positive energy for an unforgettable festival experience. This globally celebrated music and arts festival will take over the desert for two thrilling weekends on April 11-13 and April 18-20.
Whether you’re a Coachella veteran or a first-time attendee, nothing beats an engaging festival side quest. Coachella offers a variety of activities – from yoga sessions and ice baths to pickleball games and record shopping – allowing you to immerse yourself in a vibrant blend of art, music, and community in the California desert.
Here are 14 must-do side quests to enrich your Coachella weekend.
14 Unmissable Coachella Side Quests for 2025
Dance Under the Stars at the Desert Sky
This year introduces a new dance venue: Desert Sky. Discover your next favorite artist or groove to the beats of renowned DJs at Desert Sky’s Live DJ sets and Silent Disco in Lot 8 of the campgrounds. Arrive early to ensure you catch the incredible talent on Thursday night, featuring special guests like Chris Lake (W1) and Disco Dom (W2). Remember, Thursday night shows are exclusive to campers.
For the complete Desert Sky lineup for both weekends, visit EDM Identity’s Set Times and Essential Info Guide. Silent Disco sessions start at 1 AM daily.
Live DJs W1: Thursday: 8 PM-1 AM | Friday – Sunday: 11:30 PM-1 AM|
Live DJs W2: Thursday: 8 PM-1 AM | Friday – Sunday: 11:30 PM-1 AM
Silent Disco Hours: Thursday: 1-2 AM or 3 AM | Friday – Sunday: 1 AM-4 AM
Explore the Ace Hotel & Swim Club Palm Springs Art Exhibition
In an innovative partnership with the cultural brand FWB and the world’s first NFT gallery, Superchief Gallery, the Ace Hotel in Palm Springs will showcase the work of multidisciplinary artist Latashá, featuring her ‘muva_nature’ project. Expect an engaging and immersive NFT experience just a short drive from the festival grounds. Connect with fellow art lovers and soak in the desert scenery at the Ace Hotel.
Dig Through Records at the Record Safari Record Shop
With over 25,000 curated vinyl selections, this shop is a haven for vinyl enthusiasts. Plus, you’ll enjoy the comfort of A/C and shade – a rarity in the desert heat. On Saturday, April 12, there will be exclusive Record Shop Day releases available for purchase. The shop will securely hold your vinyl purchases until Sunday for a $10 fee, which includes a special Coachella tote.
Revitalize Your Body and Mind with Yoga at Desert Sky
Every day, Desert Sky will host yoga and wellness sessions. Bring your mat, if you have one, and prepare to slow down, breathe deeply, and allow the desert’s magic to guide your journey. Find your zen in Lot 8 at the campgrounds.
Take the Plunge at The Oasis Ice Bath
The Oasis is a campground spa featuring ice baths, red light therapy, leg compression, and more wellness options. Feeling adventurous? For $30, build resilience, refresh, and invigorate your body and mind with a three-minute 37-degree F Cold Plunge, including breathwork preparation.
The Oasis Hours: Thursday: 3 PM-9 PM | Friday – Sunday: 9 AM-3 PM
DIY Beauty Bar Hours: Friday – Sunday: 9 AM-3 PM – “Bring your own makeup and hot tools. Mirrors and outlets are available for use.” Book Your Appointment / Pricing
Play Pickleball or Join a Water Balloon Fight at the Activities Tent
The Activities Tent in the Campgrounds is a hub for relaxation, fun, and meeting new friends. You might encounter giant tic tac toe, oversized beer pong, a lip sync battle, or a refreshing water balloon fight. DJs will be spinning daily. Participate in the Early-bird raffles each weekend on Thursday before 5 PM for a chance to win Ferris Wheel rides, merchandise, food vouchers, and VIP upgrades.
Activity Tent Hours: Thursday: 9 AM-4 AM | Friday – Sunday: 8 AM-4 AM
Get Inked at the Campgrounds Tattoo Parlor
The Tattoo Shop is conveniently located in Lot 8 next to the Activities Tent. No need for further details here. Choose from flash designs or request a custom piece, allowing you to take home a permanent reminder of your Coachella experience. Access is through the Camp Lounge.
Tattoo Parlor Hours: Thursday: 6 PM-10 PM | Friday – Sunday: 10 AM-5 PM
Recharge and Chill at the Camp Lounge
The Camp Lounge is the perfect spot to escape the sun and take a breather. With so many activities to enjoy, it’s easy to get overwhelmed. Open to all festival-goers, the Camp Lounge provides a shaded retreat to relax and regroup. Text your friends to meet up or take a quick nap in a hammock.
Camp Lounge Hours: Thursday: 9 AM-4 AM | Friday – Sunday: 8 AM-4 AM
Craft Your Iconic Festival Look at Coachella Art Studios
Visit the Art Studios to create unique fashion pieces from upcycled vintage clothing, patchwork items, DIY beading, and more! All materials are provided for free, so unleash your creativity. Bedazzle your hat, customize your jeans, or weave a keychain – the studio is yours to explore!
For more details, check out Instagram.
Participate in the Coachella 5K
Stay active during the festival by joining the Coachella 5K! Stretch your legs and enjoy some friendly competition every Saturday at 8 AM, starting at Desert Sky in Lot 8. Experience the boost from natural endorphins and remember to stay hydrated!
Join the Global Inheritance Speakers Series
Engage with discussions on pressing environmental and social issues led by prominent scientists, activists, and artists. At Coachella, we celebrate life and recognize our collective responsibility to protect our planet and uplift communities for future celebrations.
If you’re interested in social or environmental activism and want to connect with like-minded individuals, this side quest is perfect for you! Past speakers have included DJ/Producer BLOND:ISH, activist Sam Feldt, and NASA’s Anjali Tripath. For more information, visit Global Inheritance.
Unwind to Downtempo at The Turn Down
Discover this hidden gem of late-night downtempo music nestled in Lot 8 campgrounds. Bring a pillow, lounge on a hammock, and enjoy captivating visuals. Whether you come solo or with friends, this tranquil space is perfect for relaxing and recharging.
Experience Intimate Performances at Party in My Living Room
Party In My Living Room, an iconic house party series from Inglewood, will pop up in the desert for both weekends. PIMLR and GV Black collaborate to create an unforgettable experience featuring special guests and live performances. You might discover a ’90s Hip Hop dance party or find your new favorite artist – or both! PIMLR will be located inside the venue.
Catch a Set and Enjoy a Cold Beer at the Heineken House
If you enjoy beer or simply appreciate A/C and great music, head to the Heineken House inside the venue for a refreshing drink and an exciting atmosphere, featuring performances from Pusha T, AFROJACK, and more throughout the weekend.
For more activities and experiences at Coachella 2025, be sure to visit the festival’s website and follow them on social media!
