A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Asheville vs. Palm Springs for Nightlife, Resorts, Food, and Hiking

Should you visit Asheville 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 Asheville 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.

Asheville

Asheville is a eclectic, outdoorsy, and progressive mountain town. It's a gorgeous place to visit. This is a quaint and attractive place to visit, too. It's also known for hiking, shopping, and nightlife.

Palm Springs

Palm Springs is a ritzy, chic, and outdoorsy city. And you can't forget about the food, hiking, and shopping.

Asheville and Palm Springs: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Asheville or Palm Springs?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Asheville. Although Asheville and Palm Springs are popular destinations, Asheville has more sights and attractions for tourists. Asheville is very popular for its music, historical sights, christmas markets, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere, while Palm Springs attracts visitors for its museums, food, nightlife, and resorts. Palm Springs is more touristy than Asheville and is known for its golfing, shopping, and mid-century modern architecture. Asheville is famous for its fall foliage, artsy downtown, local North Carolina barbecue, and being home to the Biltmore Estate. It is also well known for The Biltmore Estate.

How is Asheville different from Palm Springs?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Palm Springs is a good destination for its museums and landmarks. However, Asheville does not have museums and landmarks.

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.

Asheville does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Palm Springs is well known for its restaurant scene. Also, Asheville is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Palm Springs. 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.

Asheville is becoming an appealing option for foodies. Downtown Asheville is filled with local restaurants that serve everything from brunch to late night snacks. There are many vegan and vegetarian options as well as a number of international restaurants. Popular local dishes include North Carolina barbeque and country ham biscuits.

Is Asheville or Palm Springs Better for Nightlife?

Palm Springs is an unbeatable place for nightlife and partying. Also, Asheville is still popular, but not quite as popular for its evening party scene.

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.

Many people head to Asheville for the nightlife scene. The city has a fun and eclectic nightlife scene that centers around the city's breweries and live music venues.

Is Asheville or Palm Springs Better for Music?

Asheville is notable for live music. However, Palm Springs is not a live music destination.

If you love music, you'll find something to enjoy in Asheville. The city has grown into a world famous music destination that holds true to its mountain roots and independent artists.

Palm Springs is not a live music destination.

Is Asheville or Palm Springs Better for Resorts?

Palm Springs is an unbeatable place for its resorts. Also, Asheville is still popular, but not quite as popular for its luxury resorts.

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.

Asheville has a few great resort options. The most famous resorts in the area are the Biltmore Estate and the Grove Park Inn. Both offer luxury restaurants and beautiful grounds that are particularly nice during the holidays.

Is Asheville or Palm Springs Better for its Old Town?

Asheville is a moderate mountain town for its historic old town. However, Palm Springs does not have a historic old town.

Asheville is a good place to visit the old town. Downtown Asheville maintains much of its historic vibe, but it's smaller than some of the more notable old cities around the country.

Palm Springs does not have a historic old town.

Is Asheville or Palm Springs Better for Hiking?

Hiking trails can be found around both Asheville and Palm Springs, and they are high quality.

You'll find a nice variety of hiking trails around Asheville. Just outside of town are many great hikes to waterfalls or through the mountains. The hikes range in skill level and length but many pass through local forests or along the beautiful skyline.

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.

Is the Shopping Better in Asheville or Palm Springs?

Shopping is a popular activity in both Palm Springs and Asheville.

Asheville is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. The city has many local shops that sell local crafts and independent art. The downtown area is filled with art vendors and you'll find the greatest concentration of shopping along the pedestrian-friendly Lexington Avenue.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in Palm Springs. 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 Asheville or Palm Springs Better for Christmas?

Asheville is notable for its Christmas activities. However, Palm Springs does not offer Christmas activities.

Asheville is an extremely popular place to visit during the Christmas season. Head to the Biltmore Estate to see it fully decorated for the Christmas season. It's also worth going to see the winning Gingerbread Houses on display at the Grove Park Inn.

Palm Springs does not offer Christmas activities.

Is Asheville or Palm Springs Better for Christmas Markets?

Asheville is a moderate mountain town for its Christmas markets. However, Palm Springs does not offer Christmas markets.

Asheville is a good spot to see some Christmas markets. There are a handful of local Christmas shops around town where you can buy personalized gifts.

Palm Springs does not offer Christmas markets.

Is Asheville or Palm Springs Better for Families?

Both Asheville and Palm Springs are high quality family-friendly destinations.

Asheville is a very kid-friendly mountain town. With its beautiful hiking, interesting nature centers, and outdoor adventure activities, this mountain town makes a great kid-friendly destination. There are outdoor adventure parks where kids can zipline or climb. There are also hands on farms and orchards for fruit-picking.

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.

Is Asheville or Palm Springs Better for Couples?

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

Couples visit Asheville frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. Couples enjoy exploring the beautiful Biltmore Estates or visiting the spa at the Grove Park Inn. The quaint town makes a great honeymoon destination or a nice romantic getaway. There are luxury hotels or intimate bed and breakfasts that offer different options for couples on a romantic trip.

Palm Springs is a great mountain town if you're traveling as a couple. 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 Asheville or Palm Springs Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Asheville is notable for backpackers. However, Palm Springs is a mediocre city for backpackers and budget travelers.

Backpackers come from all over to visit Asheville. The town has an eclectic vibe that backpackers appreciate. There are a few good hostels around town as well as nearby campgrounds that are perfect for budget travelers or hikers.

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 Asheville or Palm Springs Better for Students?

Asheville is notable for students. However, Palm Springs is not popular with students.

Asheville is very popular with students. With its progressive personality and charming downtown, students enjoy spending time in this great town.

Palm Springs is not popular with students.

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

You'll find somewhat comparable public transit options in both Asheville and Palm Springs.

Public transit is generally limited in Asheville. There are buses around town, but almost everyone gets around town with their own vehicle.

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 Asheville or Palm Springs a more walkable city?

Asheville and Palm Springs both are nice when exploring on foot.

Asheville is a somewhat walkable place. If you stay downtown and don't plan to explore the outlying areas, then it's possible to walk around town. Otherwise, you'll need a car.

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

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

Should I spend more time in Palm Springs or Asheville?

How long in Asheville or Palm Springs?

It's fun to spend time in either Asheville or Palm Springs. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Palm Springs due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Asheville, and 2-4 days is enough time in Palm Springs.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Asheville 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 Asheville.

One day in Asheville or Palm Springs?

In Asheville, many people enjoy the live music and food that this open-minded mountain town offers. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking 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.

You'll find shopping and museums around the city of Palm Springs. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A weekend in Asheville or Palm Springs?

Asheville is a fun place to experience. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. 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.

You'll find museums and nightlife around the outdoorsy destination of Palm Springs. Hikers are also drawn to this area. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Five days in Asheville or Palm Springs?

You'll find shopping and nightlife around the outdoorsy destination of Asheville. Hikers are also drawn to this area. 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.

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the chic city of Palm Springs. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. It's also a relaxing resort destination. Most people head to the area for the nightlife. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in Asheville or Palm Springs?

Asheville is a popular place to visit. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. 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 choice for travelers. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. One week is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in United States of America, The Best Polar Tours & Cruises in United States of America, The Best Walking Tours in United States of America, and The Best Tours Under $1000 in United States of America.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Asheville and Palm Springs, we can see that Palm Springs is more expensive. And not only is Asheville much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Asheville would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Asheville 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 Asheville.

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

Which is Bigger, Asheville or Palm Springs?

Asheville has a larger population, and is about 61% larger than the population of Palm Springs. When comparing the sizes of Asheville 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 Asheville or Palm Springs?

Both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. And since both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Asheville or Palm Springs in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Asheville and Palm Springs. Many travelers come to Asheville for the hiking, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Palm Springs in the summer for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Asheville is generally a little warmer than Palm Springs. Daily temperatures in Asheville average around 82°F (28°C), and Palm Springs fluctuates around 73°F (23°C).

Asheville gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In July, Asheville usually receives more rain than Palm Springs. Asheville gets 5.4 inches (137 mm) of rain, while Palm Springs receives 0 inches (1 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Asheville or Palm Springs in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Asheville as well as Palm Springs. Many visitors come to Asheville in the autumn for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the music scene, 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.

Asheville is cooler than Palm Springs in the autumn. The daily temperature in Asheville averages around 64°F (18°C) in October, and Palm Springs fluctuates around 69°F (20°C).

Asheville usually gets more rain in October than Palm Springs. Asheville gets 3.4 inches (86 mm) of rain, while Palm Springs receives 0.3 inches (7 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Asheville or Palm Springs in the Winter?

Both Palm Springs and Asheville are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Asheville for the Christmas ambience, 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.

In the winter, Asheville is much colder than Palm Springs. Typically, the winter temperatures in Asheville in January average around 44°F (7°C), and Palm Springs averages at about 57°F (14°C).

It's quite rainy in Asheville. In January, Asheville usually receives more rain than Palm Springs. Asheville gets 3.9 inches (100 mm) of rain, while Palm Springs receives 2 inches (52 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Asheville or Palm Springs in the Spring?

Both Palm Springs and Asheville during the spring are popular places to visit. The spring months attract visitors to Asheville because of the natural beauty.

In April, Asheville is generally around the same temperature as Palm Springs. Daily temperatures in Asheville average around 64°F (18°C), and Palm Springs fluctuates around 62°F (17°C).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Asheville. Asheville usually gets more rain in April than Palm Springs. Asheville gets 4.4 inches (112 mm) of rain, while Palm Springs receives 0.9 inches (24 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Palm Springs and Asheville