A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Key West vs. Palm Springs for Nightlife, Resorts, Food, and Families

Should you visit Key West or Palm Springs?

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

Should I visit Key West or Palm Springs? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

Key West

Key West is a eclectic, bustling, and active town. It's a very nice small town not to be missed. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. This is an attractive and quaint destination worth visiting as well. It's also known for nightlife, food, and scuba diving and snorkeling.

Palm Springs

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

Key West and Palm Springs: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Key West or Palm Springs?

Both Palm Springs and Key West have plenty of things to do for visitors. Both offer a variety of sights, activities, and attractions for tourists. Key West is very popular for its scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, historical sights, small town charm, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere, while Palm Springs attracts visitors for its museums, food, nightlife, resorts, hiking, and shopping. Key West is famous for its festive nightlife, quirky town center, colorful personality, adrenaline-filled watersports, stunning beaches, turquoise water, and location at the southernmost point of the continental U.S. Palm Springs is famous for its golfing, shopping, and mid-century modern architecture.

How is Key West different from Palm Springs?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Palm Springs is a popular place for its sights and museums. However, Key West 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.

Key West does not have museums and landmarks.

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

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

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.

Key West is becoming an appealing option for foodies. Head to town for local restaurants with quirky atmospheres. There are many local dishes to sample, be the town is most known for its stone crabs, conch fritters, and Mahi Mahi sandwiches. You'll also find cold drinks and waterfront dining areas.

Is Key West or Palm Springs Better for Nightlife?

Palm Springs is renowned for nightlife and partying. Also, Key West is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its evening party scene.

Palm Springs is a destination that you simply have to visit at least once for nightlife. 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.

Key West has a lively atmosphere and nightlife is popular here. This area has some of the most lively nightlife in the Florida Keys. There are quirky bars and fun hangouts where you can spend the evening. The party starts at Mallory Square around sunset and many bars stay open well into the early hours. You can also enjoy sunset cruises or pass your time at one of the many tiki bars.

Is Key West or Palm Springs Better for Resorts?

Palm Springs is renowned for its resorts. Also, Key West is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its luxury resorts.

For the ultimate resort vacation, Palm Springs is a great choice. Resorts range from luxurious to more laid back. Most have impressive pools and many have their own spas, restaurants, and entertainment options.

Vacationers can choose from a number of terrific resorts in Key West. There are a number of high end resorts around the island, many with recognizable names such as the Hyatt and Hilton. Prices can be high, but these resorts often come with reliable luxury.

Is Key West or Palm Springs Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Key West is very good for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Palm Springs is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

It's worth going snorkeling or scuba diving in Key West. There are a number of dive shops and snorkeling excursions that leave from Key West. Like many tourist areas these days, the coral shows its damage from the crowds, but you'll likely see some barracuda or a Grouper.

Palm Springs is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Key West or Palm Springs Better for Beaches?

Key West is notable for its beaches. However, Palm Springs is not a beach destination.

Key West is a very popular place to visit for its beaches. One of the best beaches in the area is Fort Zachary Taylor Historic State Park. The beach has soft sand and stunning turquoise water. As is typical in the Keys, the water stays shallow for great distances.

Palm Springs is not a beach destination.

Is Key West or Palm Springs Better for its Old Town?

Key West is notable for its historic old town. However, Palm Springs does not have a historic old town.

There is a nice variety of sights in the old town of Key West. The town has the most charming Old Town areas in the Florida Keys. Head to Mallory Square for the sunset street performers and explore the historic streets around Duval Street.

Palm Springs does not have a historic old town.

Is Key West or Palm Springs Better for Hiking?

Palm Springs is notable for the nearby hiking options. However, Key West is not a hiking destination.

Palm Springs is a popular spot for hiking. 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.

Key West is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Key West or Palm Springs?

Palm Springs is notable for its shopping opportunities. However, Key West is a mediocre town for its shopping areas.

Palm Springs is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. 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.

Key West has some good spots for those that want to go shopping. While it definitely has its share of gimmicky souvenir shops and t-shirt stores, there are still a number of art galleries and local shops around Key West where you can enjoy shopping.

Is Key West or Palm Springs Better for Families?

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Key West or Palm Springs.

Key West is a very kid-friendly town. Families that enjoy snorkeling, aquariums, water sports, and exploring new places will enjoy visiting this part of the Florida Keys. There are many ways to get out on the water from kayaking and snorkeling to glass bottom boat tours and sunset cruises. There are also many kid-friendly beaches in the area. The town can have a party atmosphere, but it's not hard to find a more family-friendly area where everyone can have fun.

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 Key West or Palm Springs Better for Couples?

With fun activities for couples, both Key West and Palm Springs make for a great place to visit.

Key West is a very popular place to visit for couples. From Mallory Square to the beautiful nearby parks, Key West makes a wonderful, romantic destination. Whether it's your honeymoon, an anniversary, or simply a couples' retreat, Key West is a great option. You can sip wine on a sunset cruise or dine at one of the many character-filled restaurants in town. If you are looking for a party, it's not hard to find, but if you want a more laid back holiday, that's also possible.

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 Key West or Palm Springs Better for Students?

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

Key West is very popular with students. It's a great spring break destination with a quirky personality and many great activities.

Palm Springs is not popular with students.

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

Palm Springs is a moderate city for its public transit. However, Key West is a mediocre town 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 Key West. Public transportation in Key West is limited to a few buses.

Is Key West or Palm Springs a more walkable city?

Key West and Palm Springs both are nice when exploring on foot.

Key West is a somewhat walkable place. The town is the most walkable part of the Florida Keys. The area around Mallory Square and Duval Street is the most pedestrian friendly.

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

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

Should I spend more time in Palm Springs or Key West?

How long in Key West or Palm Springs?

It's fun to spend time in either Key West or Palm Springs. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Key West due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 5-7 days is a good amount of time for Key West, and 2-4 days is enough time in Palm Springs.

Couples should spend more time in Palm Springs than Key West. 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 Key West 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.

One day in Key West or Palm Springs?

In Key West, many people enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling that this quaint town 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.

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 Key West or Palm Springs?

Key West is a fun place to experience. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring.

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 Key West or Palm Springs?

In Key West, many people enjoy the nightlife and food that this laid-back destination offers. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Plenty of people spend five days in the area when traveling. So, five days is just the right amount of time to spend here.

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 Key West or Palm Springs?

Key West is a popular place to visit. Many people spend one week here. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then one week is just the right amount of time to spend here. 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 One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Los Angeles, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from New York City, The Best 2-Week Tours from New York City, and The Best 2-Week Tours from Anchorage.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Key West and Palm Springs, we can see that Key West is more expensive. And not only is Palm Springs much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Palm Springs would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Palm Springs 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 Key West would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Key West than you might in Palm Springs.

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

Which is Bigger, Key West or Palm Springs?

Palm Springs has a larger population, and is about 74% larger than the population of Key West. When comparing the sizes of Key West 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 Key West 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 Key West or Palm Springs in the Summer?

Both Palm Springs and Key West are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The beaches, snorkeling, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Key West this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Palm Springs for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Key West is generally a little warmer than Palm Springs. Daily temperatures in Key West average around 84°F (29°C), and Palm Springs fluctuates around 73°F (23°C).

In July, Key West usually receives more rain than Palm Springs. Key West gets 3.3 inches (83 mm) of rain, while Palm Springs receives 0 inches (1 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Key West or Palm Springs in the Autumn?

Both Palm Springs and Key West during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Key West for the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, many visitors come to Palm Springs in the autumn for the hiking trails and the shopping scene.

Key West is a little warmer than Palm Springs in the autumn. The daily temperature in Key West averages around 80°F (27°C) in October, and Palm Springs fluctuates around 69°F (20°C).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Key West. Key West usually gets more rain in October than Palm Springs. Key West gets 5.1 inches (129 mm) of rain, while Palm Springs receives 0.3 inches (7 mm) of rain this time of the year. Keep in mind that June to November is the hurricane season in Key West.

Should I visit Key West or Palm Springs in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Key West and Palm Springs. Many visitors come to Key West in the winter for the shopping scene and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Palm Springs for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

In the winter, Key West is a little warmer than Palm Springs. Typically, the winter temperatures in Key West in January average around 70°F (21°C), and Palm Springs averages at about 57°F (14°C).

In January, Key West usually receives less rain than Palm Springs. Key West gets 1.7 inches (43 mm) of rain, while Palm Springs receives 2 inches (52 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Key West or Palm Springs in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Key West as well as Palm Springs. Most visitors come to Key West for the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty during these months.

In April, Key West is generally much warmer than Palm Springs. Daily temperatures in Key West average around 77°F (25°C), and Palm Springs fluctuates around 62°F (17°C).

Key West usually gets less rain in April than Palm Springs. Key West gets 0.8 inches (21 mm) of rain, while Palm Springs receives 0.9 inches (24 mm) of rain this time of the year. Also, June to November in Key West is the hurricane season.

Typical Weather for Palm Springs and Key West