Points Miles and Bling (blog) contains referral or affiliate links. The blog receives a small commission at no additional cost to you. Thank you for your continued support. Credit Card issuers are not responsible for maintaining or monitoring the accuracy of information on this website. For full details, current product information, and Terms and Conditions, click the link included.
Coachella VIP Access – Introduction and Getting Tickets
The USA hosts some incredible music festivals throughout the year, and one of the most iconic among them is Coachella. Held annually at the Empire Polo Club in Indio, California, in the heart of the Coachella Valley of the Colorado Desert, this three-day music and arts festival is a bucket-list experience for music lovers. The festival spans two weekends in April and features performances across various genres, including pop, rock, indie, hip-hop, and electronic dance music. Art installations and sculptures are scattered across the sprawling grounds, adding a visual treat to the auditory delight.
Last year, I decided to attend Weekend 2 of Coachella, which coincided with my birthday. Here’s a detailed review of my first Coachella experience, from booking tickets to the final performance.
Tickets for Coachella typically go on sale in January, and I signed up on the Coachella website to stay updated on ticket sales and lineup announcements. Weekend 1 is often more popular, but I chose Weekend 2 because it aligns with my birthday. The general admission tickets were $539, while the Coachella VIP Access tickets were $1200. The fees and service charges at checkout were close to $150!
Coachella Ferris Wheel
Securing tickets was straightforward, with no significant delays or issues in the virtual queue. I opted for a VIP ticket to treat myself, while my friends went for General Admission. The purchasing process was quick and hassle-free, giving me a smooth start to my Coachella journey.
Weather, Food, and Transportation
Coachella’s desert location means the days are hot while the nights can get surprisingly cool. As temperatures dipped quite low, I learned the hard way to pack a hoodie for the evenings. The festival provided complimentary sunscreen dispensers throughout the venue, a thoughtful addition that helped lighten my packing list.
Sunscreen Station at Coachella
The festival’s food options were diverse, catering to all tastes and dietary needs. While the prices were steep, the quality and variety of food stood out, making it a highlight of the festival experience. From casual eats to gourmet dishes, there was something for everyone.
Food and Bar vendor – one of many
Vegan food options at Coachella
More food vendors
You can stay at many hotels in Palm Springs during Coachella. I recommend staying at 1 of 16, which offers a shuttle bus service. This way, you save yourself from driving there and parking or paying astronomical Uber prices due to surge pricing. I came across this website, which gave me the 16 hotels to book, and I chose Hilton Hampton Inn & Suites for my stay.
Hilton Hampton Inn & Suites
My Hotel Room for Coachella
I paid $140 for a shuttle service between select hotels and the festival grounds. The service was efficient, with buses arriving early and running late to accommodate all attendees. I was impressed by the convenience and organization of the shuttle service, which eliminated the hassle of arranging alternative transportation.
Coachella VIP Access – Day 1
On the first day, I joined my friends in exploring the general admission areas. We spent the morning navigating the venue and familiarizing ourselves with the 10 stages:
- Coachella Stage: The main stage for headliners.
- Outdoor Theatre: The second-largest stage.
- Sahara Tent: An EDM hub with an incredible visual setup.
- Yuma Tent: An air-conditioned space for house music.
- Sonora Tent: A rock-club vibe featuring guitar-heavy acts.
- Mojave Tent: A versatile stage for electronic and indie acts.
- Gobi Tent: An intimate space for indie and global artists.
- Quasar: An open-air DJ stage.
- Do Lab: A stage for up-and-coming DJs and surprise guests.
- Heineken House: A beer-sponsored stage with exclusive performances.
The festival’s art installations were equally captivating. From the floating “Balloon Chain” to the vibrant “Spectra” tower, each piece was a social media magnet. My friends and I spent much of the day taking photos and marvelling at the creativity.
Art Installation –
More Art Installations
I also explored some corporate sponsor booths, including Amex, which offered a $10 statement credit for spending $100. I tried my luck with a $60 mystery box, which included a Coachella hat, a bandana, and a beer koozie—not the most exciting purchase in hindsight.
Day 1 – The Sahara Stage
Day 1 – Heineken House
The headliner for Day 1 was Lana Del Rey. While I respect her artistry, her performance felt lacklustre compared to the high-energy acts I had anticipated.
Coachella VIP Access – Day 2
Day 2 was dedicated to exploring the perks of my VIP pass. While there was no expedited entry, the VIP areas offered shaded seating, upscale food vendors, and a relaxed atmosphere away from the crowds. Notable vendors included a lobster roll stand ($35) and a caviar bar ($88).
Day 2 – VIP Area
VIP access – food and drink options
VIP food option – Lobster and Caviar Roll
The day’s highlight was Tyler, the Creator, whose performance was hilarious and musically outstanding. No Doubt reunited on stage, and Jon Batiste delivered a breathtaking set. He even ventured into the audience, where I managed to high-five him. These performances solidified Day 2 as the most memorable day of the festival.
Day 2 – Jon Batiste
Day 2 – No Doubt
Coachella VIP Access – Day 3
Spending my birthday at Coachella was a unique experience. My friends surprised me with a bottle of Moët & Chandon, which we enjoyed over breakfast before heading to the festival. Having covered most of the venue on the previous days, we took it easy on Day 3, revisiting favourite spots and enjoying a ride on the Coachella Ferris wheel ($15).
Day 3 – Coachella Ferris Wheel
View from the Ferris Wheel
Day 3 – Alien Themed Stage
Doja Cat headlined the final night with a bold and unforgettable performance that included a provocative mud bath scene. It was a fitting end to a weekend full of music, art, and celebration.
Day 3 – Center Stage
Day 3 – Doja Cat performance
Day 3 – Doja Cat Stage
Coachella VIP Access – Was It Worth It?
In hindsight, I wouldn’t recommend splurging on a VIP ticket for Weekend 2. While the VIP areas provided convenience and comfort, the benefits didn’t justify the cost. General Admission attendees had equally good views, and the main advantage of VIP—avoiding crowds—wasn’t as significant during Weekend 2.
My first Coachella was an unforgettable experience with standout performances by Tyler, the Creator, No Doubt, Jon Batiste, and Doja Cat, while Lana Del Rey’s set was underwhelming. Coachella’s accessible flights and accommodations, especially for points enthusiasts, make it a must-visit for music lovers.
The 2025 lineup features Green Day, Post Malone, Megan Thee Stallion, Charli XCX, Missy Elliott, and Lady Gaga, promising another stellar edition. Whether you choose General Admission or VIP, Coachella is an experience well worth the trip to the desert. Rock on!
Other Reviews from Coachella Series:
Review: American Airlines Admirals Club Toronto (YYZ)
Review: American Airlines First Class from Toronto to Palm Springs
Review: American Airlines Admirals Club Lounge ORD
