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

Should you visit Cherokee or Palm Springs?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Cherokee or Palm Springs, this travel comparison, which includes costs, can help. The overall cost of travel is usually a consideration when deciding where to go next, and the cost comparison down below can help you decide based on the average prices from other travelers along with your own travel budget.

Cherokee

Cherokee is a cultural, genuine, and fascinating town. It's also known for food, hiking, and shopping.

Palm Springs

Palm Springs is a outdoorsy, ritzy, and chic city. It's also known for museums, nightlife, and food.

Cherokee and Palm Springs: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Nice resorts
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with backpackers


Is there more to do in Cherokee or Palm Springs?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Palm Springs. Although Cherokee and Palm Springs are both popular with visitors, Palm Springs has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Palm Springs is more touristy than Cherokee and is known for its golfing, shopping, and mid-century modern architecture. It is also home to the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway. Cherokee is popular for its cultural experiences and nearby hiking trails.

How is Cherokee different from Palm Springs?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Cherokee
Palm Springs

Both Cherokee and Palm Springs have good landmarks and museums for visitors.

Cherokee is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. Many of the museums educate visitors on the Native American culture. Oconaluftee Indian Village, the Museum of the Cherokee People, and the Mountain Farm Museum each offer a unique and interesting perspective.

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 Cherokee or Palm Springs? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Cherokee
Palm Springs

Palm Springs is notable for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Cherokee is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its restaurants.

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.

Cherokee has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. There are casual sandwich shops as well as several places that offer traditional Cherokee foods such as fry bread.

Is Cherokee or Palm Springs Better for Nightlife?

Cherokee
Palm Springs

Palm Springs is an amazing city to visit for nightlife. However, Cherokee is a mediocre town for nightlife and partying.

Palm Springs has a colorful and one-of-a-kind nightlife scene. 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.

Those looking for nightlife will find a few places to hang out in Cherokee. The town is generally quiet but you can head to Harrah's Cherokee Casino for drinks and entertainment.

Is Cherokee or Palm Springs Better for Resorts?

Cherokee
Palm Springs

Palm Springs is an amazing city to visit for its resorts. However, Cherokee is not a resort destination.

Palm Springs offers an unforgettable resort vacation. Resorts range from luxurious to more laid back. Most have impressive pools and many have their own spas, restaurants, and entertainment options.

Cherokee is not a resort destination.


Is Cherokee or Palm Springs Better for Hiking?

Cherokee
Palm Springs

Cherokee and Palm Springs are both places where visitors can find excellent hiking trails.

Cherokee is a popular spot for hiking. There are many trails in the area that pass through forests, wander by waterfalls, and take you to spectacular viewpoints. The fall foliage is particularly nice during the autumn months.

Many visitors explore the nearby hiking trails while visiting Palm Springs. 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 Cherokee or Palm Springs?

Cherokee
Palm Springs

Palm Springs is notable for shopping. Also, Cherokee is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its shopping opportunities.

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.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Cherokee. There are craft shops and artisan vendors in the downtown area. It's fun to wander around for a few hours.

Is Cherokee or Palm Springs Better for Families?

Cherokee
Palm Springs

Cherokee and Palm Springs are both excellent destinations for the whole family.

Cherokee is a very family-friendly place to visit. It's proximity to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park make this a fun destination for families. There are countless outdoor adventure activities. The town is also filled with Cherokee history and culture, so it offers educational experiences as well.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Palm Springs is very family-friendly. 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 Cherokee or Palm Springs Better for Couples?

Cherokee
Palm Springs

Cherokee and Palm Springs are both excellent to visit as a couple.

Cherokee is a very popular place to visit for couples. Nearby there are many outdoor activities and adventure experiences. Couples who enjoy nature and exploring will appreciate a stay here.

Palm Springs makes for a fun place to visit for 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 Cherokee or Palm Springs Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Cherokee
Palm Springs

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

Cherokee is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. There are several great campgrounds in the area as well as plenty of hiking opportunities.

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

Cherokee
Palm Springs

Both Cherokee and Palm Springs offer decent public transit options.

Public transit is generally limited in Cherokee. There are some bus and shuttle routes, but a private vehicle is important if you want to make the most of your visit.

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 Cherokee or Palm Springs a more walkable city?

Cherokee
Palm Springs

Palm Springs is a nice place to visit for its walkability. However, Cherokee is a mediocre town for its high level of walkability.

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

Cherokee is generally not a very walkable town. If you want to explore the area, you'll need a car to reach most places.

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

Should I spend more time in Palm Springs or Cherokee?

How long in Cherokee or Palm Springs?

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

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


  • How many days in Cherokee or Palm Springs? Ideal Length of Stay
    Cherokee 2-4 
    Palm Springs 2-4

One day in Cherokee or Palm Springs?

In Cherokee, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this cultural 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.

The city of Palm Springs offers food and shopping. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

A weekend in Cherokee or Palm Springs?

Cherokee 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.

Palm Springs is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this city makes for a great vacation. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Palm Springs, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.


Five days in Cherokee or Palm Springs?

You'll find food and shopping around the fascinating destination of Cherokee. 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.

Palm Springs is a popular choice for travelers. It's no surprise that nightlife is why people visit. Five days 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. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A week in Cherokee or Palm Springs?

Cherokee 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 great place to explore. It's no surprise that nightlife is why people visit. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This city offers something for everyone.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 2-Week Tours in United States of America, The Best 3-Week Tours in United States of America, The Best Bicycle Tours in United States of America, and Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Palm Springs or Cherokee?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Cherokee is $174, while the average daily cost in Palm Springs is $206. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Cherokee and Palm Springs in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Cherokee $158
    Palm Springs $120
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Cherokee $316
    Palm Springs $240
Compare Hotels in Cherokee and Palm Springs

Looking for a hotel in Cherokee or Palm Springs? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Cherokee


Hotels in Palm Springs


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Cherokee Hotel Prices and Palm Springs Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Cherokee -
    Palm Springs $52

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Palm Springs

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Palm Springs:

  • Desert Hot Springs to Palm Springs Airport Departure Transfer: $87
  • Palm Springs Airport (PSP) to Desert Hot Springs Private Transfer: $87
  • Palm Springs International Airport (PSP) to ONTARIO - Arrival Private Transfer: $105
  • Palm Springs International Airport (PSP) to SANTA ANA - Arrival Private Transfer: $128
  • Palm Springs Airport (PSP) to LA QUINTA/INDIO - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $129
  • Palm Springs Airport PSP to Snow Summit-Arrival Private Transfer: $131
  • Private Transfer from PSP to Palm Desert / Indian Wells: $135
  • Palm Springs Airport (PSP) to INDIAN WELLS - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $162
  • Palm Springs Airport (PSP) to LOS ANGELES - Arrival Private Transfer: $171
  • Palm Springs Airport to Desert Hot Springs Round-Trip Transfer: $175
  • Private Airport Transfer in Palm Springs: $195
  • Palm Springs Airport to Snow Summit - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $262

Is it cheaper to fly into Cherokee or Palm Springs?

Prices for flights to both Palm Springs and Cherokee change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    Cherokee $16
    Palm Springs $53

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Cherokee -
    Palm Springs $29

Tours and Activities in Palm Springs

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Palm Springs are as follows:

  • Joshua Tree National Park Self-Guided Driving Tour: $12
  • Journey into Joshua Tree: Audio Tour + Free Locals Guide!: $12
  • Self-Guided Audio Tour Joshua Tree: $13
  • Joshua Tree National Park Self-Driving Audio Tour: $17
  • Palm Springs Self-Guided Driving Audio Tour: $17
  • City and Desert App-Guided Driving Tour: $17
  • Death Valley National Park Self-Guided Audio Driving Tour: $17
  • Palm Springs and Joshua Tree Self-Guided Driving Tours Bundle: $25
  • Private 1-Hour Archery Experience around Joshua Tree National Park.: $28
  • Self-Driving Windmill Tour: $30
  • Palm Springs Aerial Tramway Admission Ticket: $30
  • Self-Guided Scavenger Hunt Walking Tour: $49

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Cherokee -
    Palm Springs $13


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

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


Which is Bigger, Cherokee or Palm Springs?

Palm Springs has a larger population, and is about 7 times larger than the population of Cherokee. When comparing the sizes of Cherokee 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 Cherokee 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 Cherokee or Palm Springs in the Summer?

Both Palm Springs and Cherokee are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Cherokee for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Palm Springs because of the hiking and the family-friendly experiences.

Cherokee is a little warmer than Palm Springs in the summer. The daily temperature in Cherokee averages around 81°F (27°C) in July, and Palm Springs fluctuates around 73°F (23°C).

It's quite rainy in Cherokee. In July, Cherokee usually receives more rain than Palm Springs. Cherokee gets 4.7 inches (119 mm) of rain, while Palm Springs receives 0 inches (1 mm) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Cherokee 81°F (27°C) 
    Palm Springs 73°F (23°C)

Should I visit Cherokee or Palm Springs in the Autumn?

Both Palm Springs and Cherokee during the autumn are popular places to visit. The autumn months attract visitors to Cherokee because of the hiking trails and the shopping scene. Also, the hiking trails and the shopping scene are the main draw to Palm Springs this time of year.

In the autumn, Cherokee is cooler than Palm Springs. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Cherokee in October average around 63°F (17°C), and Palm Springs averages at about 69°F (20°C).

Cherokee usually gets more rain in October than Palm Springs. Cherokee gets 2.7 inches (68 mm) of rain, while Palm Springs receives 0.3 inches (7 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Cherokee 63°F (17°C) 
    Palm Springs 69°F (20°C)

Should I visit Cherokee or Palm Springs in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Cherokee and Palm Springs. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Cherokee this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Palm Springs for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

It's quite cold in Cherokee in the winter. In January, Cherokee is generally much colder than Palm Springs. Daily temperatures in Cherokee average around 40°F (5°C), and Palm Springs fluctuates around 57°F (14°C).

Cherokee gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In January, Cherokee usually receives more rain than Palm Springs. Cherokee gets 4.7 inches (119 mm) of rain, while Palm Springs receives 2 inches (52 mm) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Cherokee 40°F (5°C) 
    Palm Springs 57°F (14°C)

Should I visit Cherokee or Palm Springs in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Cherokee as well as Palm Springs.

Cherokee is around the same temperature as Palm Springs in the spring. The daily temperature in Cherokee averages around 62°F (17°C) in April, and Palm Springs fluctuates around 62°F (17°C).

Cherokee usually gets more rain in April than Palm Springs. Cherokee gets 3.6 inches (92 mm) of rain, while Palm Springs receives 0.9 inches (24 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Cherokee 62°F (17°C) 
    Palm Springs 62°F (17°C)

Typical Weather for Palm Springs and Cherokee

Cherokee Palm Springs
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 40°F (5°C) 4.7 inches (119 mm) 57°F (14°C) 2 inches (52 mm)
Feb 44°F (7°C) 4.7 inches (120 mm) 58°F (15°C) 2.3 inches (58 mm)
Mar 54°F (12°C) 4.8 inches (123 mm) 59°F (15°C) 2.2 inches (57 mm)
Apr 62°F (17°C) 3.6 inches (92 mm) 62°F (17°C) 0.9 inches (24 mm)
May 70°F (21°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm) 65°F (18°C) 0.2 inches (6 mm)
Jun 78°F (25°C) 3.6 inches (92 mm) 69°F (20°C) 0.1 inches (2 mm)
Jul 81°F (27°C) 4.7 inches (119 mm) 73°F (23°C) 0 inches (1 mm)
Aug 80°F (27°C) 3.2 inches (82 mm) 74°F (24°C) 0.2 inches (4 mm)
Sep 74°F (24°C) 2.8 inches (71 mm) 73°F (23°C) 0.4 inches (9 mm)
Oct 63°F (17°C) 2.7 inches (68 mm) 69°F (20°C) 0.3 inches (7 mm)
Nov 53°F (12°C) 3.5 inches (90 mm) 62°F (17°C) 1.5 inches (39 mm)
Dec 44°F (7°C) 4.5 inches (114 mm) 57°F (14°C) 1.7 inches (42 mm)