A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Alexandria vs. Palm Springs for Nightlife, Attractions, Food, and Families

Should you visit Alexandria or Palm Springs?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for Alexandria and Palm Springs. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.

Alexandria

Alexandria is a quaint, historic, and charming city. It's a very nice small town not to be missed. Alexandria is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for nightlife, food, and shopping. See Alexandria travel costs.

Palm Springs

Palm Springs is a chic, outdoorsy, and ritzy city. It's also popular because of the food, hiking, and shopping. See Palm Springs travel costs.

Alexandria and Palm Springs: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Alexandria or Palm Springs?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Palm Springs than Alexandria, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Palm Springs is better known for its nightlife, resorts, and hiking, while Alexandria is more popular for its museums and attractions, historical sights, small town charm, and impressive beauty. Palm Springs is more touristy than Alexandria and is popular for its golfing, shopping, and mid-century modern architecture. Also, Palm Springs is famous for the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway. Alexandria is well known for its long-running history, beautiful architecture, and small town atmosphere.

How is Alexandria different from Palm Springs?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Palm Springs and Alexandria. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Alexandria or Palm Springs?

Alexandria is notable for its sights and museums. Also, Palm Springs is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its museums and history.

Many visitors head to Alexandria specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. George Washington's Mount Vernon home is an iconic destination in Alexandria. There are also many other museums in town that focus on the region's history. The Alexandria History Museum at the Lyceum and the Gadsby's Tavern Museum are both interesting. There's Gunston Hall and the Carlyle House, as well as an archeology museum and many historic landmarks around town.

Palm Springs offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. The Palm Springs Air Museum has an impressive collection of military planes. It's also worth visiting the Palm Springs Art Museum, which has a mix of fine art, natural history, and performing arts. You'll also find botanical gardens and even a zoo around town.

Is the Food Better in Alexandria or Palm Springs? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Dining out at restaurants in both Alexandria and Palm Springs can be an enjoyable experience.

Alexandria has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. The food, like the city itself, reflects the area's history. There are many southern classic dishes as well as a lot of seafood. You'll find lots of local restaurants that serve high quality dishes and a quaint atmosphere.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Palm Springs makes for a great culinary experience. Fresh ingredients and typical California cuisine is common around town. Brunch is a popular option for visitors and you'll find countless brunch cafes in the area. You'll also find Mexican food, pizza, and plenty of vegan and vegetarian options.

Is Alexandria or Palm Springs Better for Nightlife?

Palm Springs is an unbeatable place for its evening party scene. Also, Alexandria is not as popular, but is still a nice city for nightlife.

The nightlife in Palm Springs is well established with world renowned clubs and venues. The area is filled with nightlife options that range from cocktail bars to nightclubs or breweries. You can party into the early morning at the dance clubs or enjoy a bottle of wine with friends at one of the lounges.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Alexandria. There's a great bar scene, as well as tons of restaurants that make for a relaxing night out.

Is Alexandria or Palm Springs Better for Resorts?

Palm Springs is an unbeatable place for its luxury resorts. However, Alexandria is not a resort destination.

Vacationers flock to Palm Springs for its luxury resorts. Resorts range from luxurious to more laid back. Most have impressive pools and many have their own spas, restaurants, and entertainment options.

Alexandria is not a resort destination.

Is Alexandria or Palm Springs Better for its Old Town?

Alexandria is an amazing city to visit for its historic old town. However, Palm Springs does not have a historic old town.

Alexandria offers visitors a world-class historical old town to explore. At the heart of the city is the historic old town. Its lined with townhomes that date back to the 18th century. There are many historic sights that have stories from the early days of the country. There are also cobblestone streets and a great waterfront.

Palm Springs does not have a historic old town.

Is Alexandria or Palm Springs Better for Hiking?

Palm Springs is great for hiking. However, Alexandria is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors go to Palm Springs for the hiking trails. There are more than 100 trails in the Greater Palm Springs area that take you through scenic desert landscapes and unique ecosystems. Some of the most popular trails include Andreas Canyon Trail and Araby Trail.

Alexandria is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Alexandria or Palm Springs?

If you're looking to go shopping, Alexandria and Palm Springs both offer plenty of high quality spots.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in Alexandria. King Street is the main shopping street in town and it offers the largest concentration of independently owned boutiques in the Washington D.C. area. It's the perfectly place to spend an afternoon shopping.

Palm Springs is an extremely popular place for shoppers. Shopping ranges from outlets to boutique vendors. For the most local options head to Palm Canyon Drive and for an upscale shopping experience, visit the El Paseo shopping district.

Is Alexandria or Palm Springs More Beautiful?

Alexandria is notable for its scenery and beauty. However, Palm Springs is not a destination known for its beauty.

Alexandria is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. The historic architecture and beautiful waterfront make this an iconic destination.

Palm Springs is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Alexandria or Palm Springs Better for Families?

Palm Springs is great for its kid-friendly activities. However, Alexandria is not a good destination for its family-friendly activities.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Palm Springs. The year round sunny weather and diversity of outdoor activities make this a great family-friendly destination. There are desert hikes, zoos, and even a dinosaur museum. Kids can also pass their time playing at the pool or enjoying the waterslides.

Alexandria is not the most family-friendly destination. The waterfront area is nice to walk around. You can break up the history with an ice cream shop and kids will also enjoy taking a boat tour.

Is Alexandria or Palm Springs Better for Couples?

Alexandria and Palm Springs both high quality destinations for a couple.

Alexandria is a great city if you're traveling as a couple. The charm of the old town makes this a quaint and romantic destination. There's a waterfront area and many historic buildings. There are also romantic restaurants and plenty of places to grab brunch.

Palm Springs is a very popular place to visit for couples. Whether you're on a honeymoon or simply looking to escape the city, there are many romantic options in the area. From cozy inns to resort spa hotels, there are a range of accommodation options. Outdoor dining, hiking, and shopping are also popular.

Is Alexandria or Palm Springs Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Alexandria is very good for backpackers. However, Palm Springs is a mediocre city for backpackers and budget travelers.

Alexandria is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. There aren't any true hostels in town, but you will find some cheap motels.

Palm Springs is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. While the city is more famous for its upscale clientele, there's actually a hostel in town for backpackers.

Is Alexandria or Palm Springs Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Alexandria is an amazing city to visit for its public transit. However, Palm Springs is a mediocre city for times when you don't have a car.

Public transit in Alexandria is top-notch. DASH is the local bus system, but the city is also connected into the Washington DC metro system.

Public transit is mostly limited in Palm Springs. There are nine bus routes operated by SunLine Transit Agency, but most visitors prefer to have a car to get around.

Is Alexandria or Palm Springs a more walkable city?

Alexandria is an amazing city to visit for its walkability. Also, Palm Springs is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its high level of walkability.

It is easy to get around Alexandria on foot. It's a very easy city to walk around, particularly in the historic heart where most tourists spend their time.

Palm Springs is a somewhat walkable place. Parts of the city are very walkable, particularly the touristy areas along Palm Canyon Drive.

For even more information, also check out Is Alexandria Worth Visiting? and Is Palm Springs Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Palm Springs or Alexandria?

How long in Alexandria or Palm Springs?

It's fun to spend time in either Alexandria or Palm Springs. In our opinion, Alexandria has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Alexandria than Palm Springs. However, 2-4 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

Families should spend more time in Palm Springs than Alexandria. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Palm Springs, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Couples should spend more time in Alexandria than Palm Springs. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Alexandria that are great for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Alexandria than Palm Springs if your budget allows for it. With a larger number of budget-friendly sights, good nightlife, and active things to do, anyone traveling on a budget would have a good time in Alexandria.

One day in Alexandria or Palm Springs?

In Alexandria, many people enjoy the food and shopping that this historic city offers. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

With museums and nightlife around the chic city of Palm Springs, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. One of the main draws to the area is the nightlife. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Alexandria or Palm Springs?

Alexandria is a fun place to experience. Visiting the old town is also a must. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. So, a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

With nightlife and food around the destination of Palm Springs, there's plenty to do. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. It offers something for everyone. Many people spend a weekend here. One of the main draws to the area is the nightlife. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this city.

Five days in Alexandria or Palm Springs?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the charming destination of Alexandria. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days.

Palm Springs, a popular city, is full of activities for travelers. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

A week in Alexandria or Palm Springs?

Alexandria is a popular place to visit. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Palm Springs is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. One of the main draws to the area is the nightlife. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Photography Tours in United States of America, The Best Camping Tours in United States of America, The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in United States of America, and The Best Polar Tours & Cruises in United States of America.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Alexandria and Palm Springs, we can see that Palm Springs is more expensive. And not only is Alexandria much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Alexandria would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Alexandria and be able to afford a more luxurious travel style by staying in nicer hotels, eating at more expensive restaurants, taking tours, and experiencing more activities. The same level of travel in Palm Springs would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Palm Springs than you might in Alexandria.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Alexandria Expensive? and Is Palm Springs Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Alexandria or Palm Springs?

Alexandria has a larger population, and is about 3 times larger than the population of Palm Springs. When comparing the sizes of Alexandria and Palm Springs, keep in mind that a larger population does not always imply the destination has more attractions or better activities. So, always research the type of place that you want to visit along with the activities and attractions that interest you.

When is the best time to visit Alexandria or Palm Springs?

Both places have a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. As both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Alexandria or Palm Springs in the Summer?

Both Palm Springs and Alexandria during the summer are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Alexandria for the small town charm and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Palm Springs in the summer for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Alexandria is a little warmer than Palm Springs. Typically, the summer temperatures in Alexandria in July average around 79°F (26°C), and Palm Springs averages at about 73°F (23°C).

Alexandria usually gets more rain in July than Palm Springs. Alexandria gets 3.5 inches (88 mm) of rain, while Palm Springs receives 0 inches (1 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Alexandria or Palm Springs in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Alexandria and Palm Springs. Many visitors come to Alexandria in the autumn for the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, most visitors come to Palm Springs for the hiking trails and the shopping scene during these months.

In October, Alexandria is generally cooler than Palm Springs. Daily temperatures in Alexandria average around 60°F (15°C), and Palm Springs fluctuates around 69°F (20°C).

In October, Alexandria usually receives more rain than Palm Springs. Alexandria gets 2.9 inches (73 mm) of rain, while Palm Springs receives 0.3 inches (7 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Alexandria or Palm Springs in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Alexandria as well as Palm Springs. Most visitors come to Alexandria for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Palm Springs because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Alexandria can be very cold during winter. Alexandria is much colder than Palm Springs in the winter. The daily temperature in Alexandria averages around 35°F (1°C) in January, and Palm Springs fluctuates around 57°F (14°C).

Alexandria usually gets more rain in January than Palm Springs. Alexandria gets 2.7 inches (68 mm) of rain, while Palm Springs receives 2 inches (52 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Alexandria or Palm Springs in the Spring?

Both Palm Springs and Alexandria are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The spring months attract visitors to Alexandria because of the small town charm and the natural beauty.

In the spring, Alexandria is cooler than Palm Springs. Typically, the spring temperatures in Alexandria in April average around 56°F (14°C), and Palm Springs averages at about 62°F (17°C).

In April, Alexandria usually receives more rain than Palm Springs. Alexandria gets 2.8 inches (72 mm) of rain, while Palm Springs receives 0.9 inches (24 mm) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Palm Springs and Alexandria