A Travel Price Comparison for California Los Angeles vs. Palm Springs for Attractions, Food, Nightlife, and Resorts

Should you visit Los Angeles 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 Los Angeles 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.

Los Angeles

Los Angeles is a diverse, multicultural, and sprawling city. It's an amazing and huge city with tons of activities and things to do. It's also known for nightlife, live music, and food.

Palm Springs

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

Los Angeles and Palm Springs: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Los Angeles or Palm Springs?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Los Angeles than Palm Springs, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Los Angeles is better known for its museums, theatre productions, food, music, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, shopping, and big city activities, while Palm Springs is more popular for its resorts. Los Angeles is well known for is many A-list celebrities, its world-famous clubs and venues, its glamourous beaches, and being the location of the iconic Hollywood. Also, Los Angeles is famous for Hollywood. Palm Springs is well known for its golfing, shopping, and mid-century modern architecture.

How is Los Angeles different from Palm Springs?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Los Angeles is an amazing city to visit 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.

Visitors will find world class museums and historical sights in Los Angeles that are not to be missed. The city has an eclectic list of monuments and museums. Notable landmarks include the famous Hollywood sign, Griffith Observatory, the Getty Center, and the Petersen Automotive Museum.

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 Los Angeles or Palm Springs Better for Theater?

Los Angeles is notable for theatre. However, Palm Springs is not a theatre destination.

Los Angeles has a number of performance venues where you can see a variety of shows. While most people think of Hollywood when they think of LA, the city also has a thriving stage presence. Musicals and plays are popular throughout the city.

Palm Springs is not a theatre destination.

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

Los Angeles is an amazing city to visit for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Palm Springs is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its restaurants.

Los Angeles has long been recognized as a culinary destination with great restaurants. As a huge and diverse city, there is no shortage of amazing food options around town. There are a wide range of cuisines represented and many different neighborhoods that specialize in specific types of food. Popular dishes around town include Cobb Salads, Mexican Tacos, and the French Dip Sandwich.

Palm Springs has a huge number of terrific restaurants. 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 Los Angeles or Palm Springs Better for Nightlife?

The first-rate nightlife scene is relatively similar in Los Angeles and Palm Springs.

Los Angeles is a destination that you simply have to visit at least once for nightlife. The city's nightlife scene is as diverse as the city itself. There are glamorous clubs where you might spot a celebrity, as well as local dives with a more down-to-earth vibe. Some of the most famous clubs in the city include Academy, Avalon, and Boardner's.

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.

Is Los Angeles or Palm Springs Better for Music?

Los Angeles is an amazing city to visit for live music. However, Palm Springs is not a live music destination.

Los Angeles is a world class music destination. Music, movies, and show business - it's all part of what Los Angeles is known for. Several famous music venues include The Greek Theatre, Whiskey a Go Go, and The Roxy Theatre.

Palm Springs is not a live music destination.

Is Los Angeles or Palm Springs Better for Resorts?

Palm Springs is renowned for its luxury resorts. Also, Los Angeles is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its 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.

Los Angeles is known as a popular and fun resort destination. The city is home to a number of high end resorts including The Beverly Hill Hotel, The Langham Huntington Pasadena, and The Ritz-Carlton.

Is Los Angeles or Palm Springs Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Los Angeles 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 Los Angeles. The coastal setting means that there are a number of places where you can put on a mask and hop in the water. Popular snorkeling or diving spots near the city include Santa Catalina Island, Diver's Cove, and Crystal Cove State Park. Many visitors find the water to be a bit chili, but the wildlife is unique and beautiful.

Palm Springs is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Los Angeles or Palm Springs Better for Beaches?

Los Angeles is an amazing city to visit for its beaches. However, Palm Springs is not a beach destination.

With world-famous beaches, Los Angeles is a very popular vacation destination. Ranging from beaches with stunning natural beauty to those with glamourous and fun atmospheres, this city has a number of beaches to choose from. There are many fun and high-energy urban beach settings, and there are also beaches that are lined with parks and offer a more natural environment. Some of the most popular are Santa Monica, Malibu, Huntington Beach, and Redondo Beach.

Palm Springs is not a beach destination.

Is Los Angeles or Palm Springs Better for Hiking?

Los Angeles is an amazing city to visit for the nearby hiking options. Also, Palm Springs is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its hiking trails.

Many people visit Los Angeles specifically for its hiking. In and around the city you'll find world class urban hiking with views of the mountains and the ocean. Some of the most well-known hikes include the Charlie Turner Trail to Mount Hollywood, Runyon Canyon, and the Sara Wan Trailhead at Corral Canyon.

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 Los Angeles or Palm Springs?

Los Angeles is an amazing city to visit for shopping. Also, Palm Springs is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its shopping opportunities.

Los Angeles is a famous shopping destination with plenty of stores. Although it's most famous for the high end shopping at Rodeo Drive, there are actually many different shopping venues throughout the city. Other famous shopping areas include Robertson Blvd and the Grove.

Palm Springs is well-known for its shopping. 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 Los Angeles or Palm Springs Better for Families?

Los Angeles is an amazing city to visit for its family-friendly activities. Also, Palm Springs is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

Los Angeles is one of the most popular family destinations. With its many amusement parks, including nearby Disneyland, and its countless family-friendly parks and playgrounds, there is no shortage of things to do with kids around the city. Favorite activities include the amusement parks, exploring Venice Beach, a trip to the California Science Center, and taking a Warner Brothers Studio Tour.

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 Los Angeles or Palm Springs Better for Couples?

Los Angeles is an amazing city to visit for romance. Also, Palm Springs is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its romantic activities.

For those traveling as a couple, Los Angeles has plenty to offer. It is a large, sprawling city with tucked away romantic scenes that are perfect for a couple's getaway or a dream honeymoon. There are also trendy nightclubs, world-class restaurants, and high-energy beaches that make for iconic date activities.

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 Los Angeles or Palm Springs Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

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

Backpackers come from all over to visit Los Angeles. The city is a major travel destination for all types, and backpackers will find no shortage of hostels or budget friendly accommodation around town.

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 Los Angeles or Palm Springs Better for Students?

Los Angeles is an amazing city to visit for students. However, Palm Springs is not popular with students.

Students come from all over the world to visit Los Angeles. International students have long flocked to this for its major universities and diverse setting. Major universities in the area include UCLA, the University of Southern California, and the California Institute of Technology.

Palm Springs is not popular with students.

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

Los Angeles is very good for its public transit. However, Palm Springs is a mediocre city for times when you don't have a car.

Los Angeles has a few public transit options. Many of the public transit options are overlooked by visitors for a number of reasons, but options include the subway, light rail, and buses.

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 Los Angeles or Palm Springs a more walkable city?

Los Angeles and Palm Springs are notable when it comes to walkability.

Los Angeles is a somewhat walkable city. The city is sprawling, but some of the neighborhoods are more walkable than others. Some of the more walkable neighborhoods include Hollywood, Koreatown, Downtown, and MacArthur Park.

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

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

Should I spend more time in Palm Springs or Los Angeles?

How long in Los Angeles or Palm Springs?

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

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Los Angeles 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 Los Angeles.

One day in Los Angeles or Palm Springs?

Each neighborhood in Los Angeles has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. 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.

Visitors enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the ritzy city of Palm Springs. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Most people visit for the nightlife. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A weekend in Los Angeles or Palm Springs?

Los Angeles 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.

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the ritzy destination of Palm Springs. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. This city offers something for everyone. Plenty of people spend a weekend in the area when traveling. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

Five days in Los Angeles or Palm Springs?

Each neighborhood in Los Angeles has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. Hikers are also drawn to this area. 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.

The outdoorsy city of Palm Springs offers shopping and museums. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

A week in Los Angeles or Palm Springs?

Los Angeles is a popular place to visit. Many people spend one week here. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. 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.

Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Palm Springs. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. Most people visit 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 2-Week Tours from Los Angeles, The Best Family-Friendly Tours to United States of America, The Best Wildlife Tours to United States of America, and The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in United States of America.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Los Angeles and Palm Springs, we can see that Los Angeles 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 Los Angeles would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Los Angeles 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 Los Angeles Expensive? and Is Palm Springs Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Los Angeles or Palm Springs?

Los Angeles has a larger population, and is about 90 times larger than the population of Palm Springs. When comparing the sizes of Los Angeles 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 Los Angeles 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 Los Angeles or Palm Springs in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Los Angeles as well as Palm Springs. Many travelers come to Los Angeles for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, the city activities, 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 the summer, Los Angeles is around the same temperature as Palm Springs. Typically, the summer temperatures in Los Angeles in July average around 72°F (22°C), and Palm Springs averages at about 73°F (23°C).

Los Angeles usually gets less rain in July than Palm Springs. Los Angeles gets 0 inches (0 mm) of rain, while Palm Springs receives 0 inches (1 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Los Angeles or Palm Springs in the Autumn?

Both Palm Springs and Los Angeles are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Los Angeles in the autumn for the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the music scene. Also, most visitors come to Palm Springs for the hiking trails and the shopping scene during these months.

In October, Los Angeles is generally cooler than Palm Springs. Daily temperatures in Los Angeles average around 64°F (18°C), and Palm Springs fluctuates around 69°F (20°C).

In October, Los Angeles usually receives more rain than Palm Springs. Los Angeles gets 0.6 inches (15 mm) of rain, while Palm Springs receives 0.3 inches (7 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Los Angeles or Palm Springs in the Winter?

Both Palm Springs and Los Angeles during the winter are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Los Angeles for the museums, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine during these months. Furthermore, the winter months attract visitors to Palm Springs because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Los Angeles is around the same temperature as Palm Springs in the winter. The daily temperature in Los Angeles averages around 55°F (13°C) in January, and Palm Springs fluctuates around 57°F (14°C).

Los Angeles usually gets more rain in January than Palm Springs. Los Angeles gets 3.1 inches (79 mm) of rain, while Palm Springs receives 2 inches (52 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Los Angeles or Palm Springs in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Los Angeles and Palm Springs. The spring months attract visitors to Los Angeles because of the beaches and the activities around the city.

In the spring, Los Angeles is around the same temperature as Palm Springs. Typically, the spring temperatures in Los Angeles in April average around 61°F (16°C), and Palm Springs averages at about 62°F (17°C).

In April, Los Angeles usually receives around the same amount of rain as Palm Springs. Los Angeles gets 1 inches (25 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 Los Angeles