Mid-April Trip

Question

My mid-teens kid and I are hoping to come to Palm Springs in April. A few questions:

1) Am I unrealistic in thinking that by arriving on 4/13 or 4/14 and leaving 4/17 or 4/18 we will avoid Coachella impacts? Is it best to try again next year or do you think it will be manageable?

2) How do people feel about Palm Mountain resort being a good fit for a mom and mid-teen kid? Is there someplace else you'd recommend?

3) Does anyone know of a hotel that offers table tennis or pool onsite?

4) We will definitely go to Joshua Tree and are hoping to do some of the other hikes that I've seen mentioned. Would you advise a three or four full day stay?

Thank you! I have really appreciated all the great advice given here.

Answer

Visiting Palm Springs in mid-April can be a great experience, but there are a few considerations given your timeframe and interests.

1) Regarding Coachella impacts:

Coachella typically takes place over two weekends in mid-April. In 2025, the festival dates are April 12–14 and April 19–21. If your trip is April 13–17, your first day overlaps with the first weekend, which could mean some increased traffic, higher hotel rates, and busier areas near the festival site in Indio, about 30–40 minutes from central Palm Springs.
Mid-Palm Springs itself may not feel overwhelming, but expect some crowded roads during festival entry and exit times. For a short visit, it’s manageable if you plan your driving and sightseeing around festival peak hours.

2) Palm Mountain Resort suitability:

Palm Mountain Resort is a mid-range resort with a relaxed atmosphere, pools, and a central location. It’s generally considered family-friendly and works well for a parent and teen.
Other options to consider that are teen-friendly include:

Kimpton Rowan Palm Springs – boutique hotel with rooftop pool and central location
Omni Rancho Las Palmas – family-friendly resort with water features and tennis/ping pong areas
Marriott’s Desert Springs Villas – spacious rooms, pools, and sports facilities

3) Hotels with table tennis or pool:

Omni Rancho Las Palmas Resort – offers both pool and table tennis options
Marriott’s Desert Springs Villas – multiple pools and recreation areas, sometimes including table tennis
Palm Mountain Resort – has pools, but check directly for table tennis availability

4) Length of stay and activities:

Three to four full days is ideal for combining Joshua Tree, Palm Springs attractions, and short hikes in the Coachella Valley or nearby Indian Canyons.
Day 1: Arrive, relax by the pool, explore downtown Palm Springs.
Day 2: Joshua Tree day trip, short hikes and photo stops.
Day 3: Explore Indian Canyons, Palm Springs Aerial Tramway, or Palm Desert hiking.
Day 4 (optional): Additional hikes, downtown shopping, or pool day before departure.

Overall, your mid-April trip can work well despite partial Coachella overlap. Picking central lodging, planning hikes early in the day, and keeping flexible afternoon plans will help you enjoy the area without stress.

Mid-April Trip

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