A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Chimney Rock and Lake Lure vs. Palm Springs for Nightlife, Food, Hiking, and Families

Should you visit Chimney Rock and Lake Lure or Palm Springs?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Chimney Rock and Lake Lure and Palm Springs can help. It includes a travel cost comparison in addition to other factors. For many travelers, the cost of a destination is a primary consideration when choosing where to go.

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is a beautiful, peaceful, and active recreation area. It's a gorgeous place to visit. It's also known for hiking.

Palm Springs

Palm Springs is a chic, outdoorsy, and ritzy city. Other popular activities here include nightlife, food, and hiking.

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure and Palm Springs: Pros and Cons

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


Is there more to do in Chimney Rock and Lake Lure or Palm Springs?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Palm Springs than Chimney Rock and Lake Lure, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Palm Springs is better known for its museums, food, nightlife, resorts, and shopping, while Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is more popular for its impressive beauty. Palm Springs is more touristy than Chimney Rock and Lake Lure and is known for its golfing, shopping, and mid-century modern architecture. Also, Palm Springs is famous for the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway. Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is well known for its beautiful views and fun outdoor activities.

How is Chimney Rock and Lake Lure different from Palm Springs?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Chimney Rock and Lake Lure or Palm Springs?

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure
Palm Springs

Palm Springs is a city with good options for its museums and landmarks. However, Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is a recreation area with minimal options for its historical sights.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Palm Springs. 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.

While most people don't head to Chimney Rock and Lake Lure specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. There's a museum in Chimney Rock State Park, but most visitors spend their time taking advantage of the outdoor activities.


Is the Food Better in Chimney Rock and Lake Lure or Palm Springs? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure
Palm Springs

Palm Springs is a great destination for its restaurant scene. However, Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is a recreation area with minimal options for its local flavors and cuisine.

Dining out in Palm Springs is an experience not to be missed. 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.

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure offers some easy restaurants to choose from. Within Chimney Rock Park there's a deli and a cafe. Nearby you'll also find casual eateries with pizza or classic American dishes.

Is Chimney Rock and Lake Lure or Palm Springs Better for Nightlife?

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure
Palm Springs

Palm Springs is an amazing city to visit for its evening party scene. However, Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is a recreation area with minimal options for nightlife.

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.

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure doesn't have the most active nightlife scene. Most people head into nearby Asheville for the best nightlife.

Is Chimney Rock and Lake Lure or Palm Springs Better for Resorts?

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure
Palm Springs

Palm Springs is an amazing city to visit for its resorts. However, Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is not a resort destination.

Palm Springs is a world class resort vacation destination. Resorts range from luxurious to more laid back. Most have impressive pools and many have their own spas, restaurants, and entertainment options.

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is not a resort destination.


Is Chimney Rock and Lake Lure or Palm Springs Better for Hiking?

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure
Palm Springs

Both Chimney Rock and Lake Lure and Palm Springs are destinations which offer superb hiking.

You'll find a nice variety of hiking trails around Chimney Rock and Lake Lure. One of the most popular trails in Chimney Rock State Park is The Exclamation Point Trail , which leads to many viewpoints. During the summer and fall seasons the trail can get very crowded. The obvious highlight in the park is Chimney Rock, which is a rock outcropping that offers spectacular views.

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 Chimney Rock and Lake Lure or Palm Springs?

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure
Palm Springs

Palm Springs is a great destination for its shopping areas. However, Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is a recreation area with minimal options for shopping.

Browsing through shops is a popular activity 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.

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is a good destination for shopping. You'll find the standard shopping centers in the area, but for the best shopping, head over to Asheville.

Is Chimney Rock and Lake Lure or Palm Springs Better for Families?

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure
Palm Springs

Both Chimney Rock and Lake Lure and Palm Springs are superb to visit with kids.

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. There are plenty of outdoor activities in the area. Head to sliding rock for a fun afternoon. There's also tubing, kayaking, and river rafting nearby. Horseback riding is a fun way to explore a trail, or simply hiking on one of the many paths in the area. You'll also find ziplining and plenty of water activities at the lake.

Palm Springs is a very family-friendly destination. 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 Chimney Rock and Lake Lure or Palm Springs Better for Couples?

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure
Palm Springs

Both Chimney Rock and Lake Lure and Palm Springs are superb destinations for a couple's getaway.

Couples visit Chimney Rock and Lake Lure frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. There are romantic hotels as well as bed and breakfasts that make for a romantic retreat. Couples who enjoy beautiful outdoor settings and fun adventures will enjoy a weekend trip to the area. There are also local restaurants and a few wineries to explore.

Palm Springs is a great recreation area 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 Chimney Rock and Lake Lure or Palm Springs Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure
Palm Springs

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is notable for backpackers. However, Palm Springs is a mediocre city for backpackers and budget travelers.

Backpackers come from all over to visit Chimney Rock and Lake Lure. There are several great campgrounds and plenty of hiking trails that make this a nice budget or backpacker getaway.

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 Chimney Rock and Lake Lure or Palm Springs Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure
Palm Springs

Palm Springs is a city with a few options for its public transit. However, Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is a recreation area with minimal options for times when you don't have a car.

Public transit is generally 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.

Public transit is quite limited in Chimney Rock and Lake Lure. There is limited public transit in the area.


Is Chimney Rock and Lake Lure or Palm Springs a more walkable city?

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure
Palm Springs

Palm Springs is a city with good options for its ease of walking around. However, Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is a recreation area with minimal options for its walkability.

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

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is not a very walkable recreation area. The trails and parks in the region are spread out and require a car to access.

For even more information, also check out Is Chimney Rock and Lake Lure Worth Visiting? and Is Palm Springs Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Palm Springs or Chimney Rock and Lake Lure?

How long in Chimney Rock and Lake Lure or Palm Springs?

It's fun to spend time in either Chimney Rock and Lake Lure 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, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Chimney Rock and Lake Lure, and 2-4 days is enough time in Palm Springs.

Families should spend more time in Palm Springs than Chimney Rock and Lake Lure. 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 Chimney Rock and Lake Lure. 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.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Palm Springs than Chimney Rock and Lake Lure 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 Palm Springs.


  • How many days in Chimney Rock and Lake Lure or Palm Springs? Ideal Length of Stay
    Chimney Rock and Lake Lure 1-3 
    Palm Springs 2-4

One day in Chimney Rock and Lake Lure or Palm Springs?

In Chimney Rock and Lake Lure, many people enjoy the that this active recreation area offers. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. In one day, you should have a good grasp of this recreation area.

In Palm Springs, many people enjoy the museums and nightlife that this chic destination offers. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Lots of people come for the nightlife. Hikers are also drawn to this area. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Chimney Rock and Lake Lure or Palm Springs?

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure 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.

In Palm Springs, many people enjoy the nightlife and food that this destination offers. It's also a relaxing resort destination. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything. Many people spend a weekend here. A weekend is often enough time to do most activities.


Five days in Chimney Rock and Lake Lure or Palm Springs?

You'll find around the active destination of Chimney Rock and Lake Lure. 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.

Many people enjoy the food and shopping when visiting Palm Springs. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. This city offers something for everyone.

A week in Chimney Rock and Lake Lure or Palm Springs?

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure 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.

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the city of Palm Springs. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. Lots of people come for the nightlife. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Family-Friendly Tours to United States of America, The Best Wildlife Tours to United States of America, The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in United States of America, and The Best Historical Tours in United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Palm Springs or Chimney Rock and Lake Lure?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is $196, 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 Chimney Rock and Lake Lure and Palm Springs in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Chimney Rock and Lake Lure $117
    Palm Springs $120
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Chimney Rock and Lake Lure $234
    Palm Springs $240
Compare Hotels in Chimney Rock and Lake Lure and Palm Springs

Looking for a hotel in Chimney Rock and Lake Lure 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 Chimney Rock and Lake Lure


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: Palm Springs Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Chimney Rock and Lake Lure $35
    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 Airport (PSP) to INDIAN WELLS - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $162
  • Palm Springs Airport (PSP) to LA QUINTA/INDIO - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $129
  • Palm Springs Airport (PSP) to LOS ANGELES - Arrival Private Transfer: $171
  • Palm Springs Airport PSP to Snow Summit-Arrival Private Transfer: $131
  • Palm Springs Airport to Desert Hot Springs Round-Trip Transfer: $175
  • Palm Springs Airport to Snow Summit - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $262
  • Palm Springs International Airport (PSP) to ONTARIO - Arrival Private Transfer: $105
  • Palm Springs International Airport (PSP) to SANTA ANA - Arrival Private Transfer: $128
  • Private Airport Transfer in Palm Springs: $195
  • Private Transfer from PSP to Palm Desert / Indian Wells: $135

Is it cheaper to fly into Chimney Rock and Lake Lure or Palm Springs?

Prices for flights to both Palm Springs and Chimney Rock and Lake Lure 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
    Chimney Rock and Lake Lure $52
    Palm Springs $53

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Chimney Rock and Lake Lure $34
    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
    Chimney Rock and Lake Lure $21
    Palm Springs $13


When comparing the travel costs between Chimney Rock and Lake Lure and Palm Springs, we can see that Palm Springs is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Since both cities are in North America, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

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


Which is Bigger, Chimney Rock and Lake Lure or Palm Springs?

Palm Springs has a larger population, and is about 260 times larger than the population of Chimney Rock and Lake Lure. When comparing the sizes of Chimney Rock and Lake Lure 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.