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

Should you visit Minneapolis or Palm Springs?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Minneapolis 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.

Minneapolis

Minneapolis is a dynamic, innovative, and diverse city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. It's also known for nightlife, food, and shopping.

Palm Springs

Palm Springs is a ritzy, chic, and outdoorsy city. Visitors also love the museums, nightlife, and food.

Minneapolis and Palm Springs: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Minneapolis or Palm Springs?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Minneapolis. Although Minneapolis and Palm Springs are popular destinations, Minneapolis has more sights and attractions for tourists. Minneapolis is very popular for its museums, shopping, and big city activities, while Palm Springs attracts visitors for its food, nightlife, resorts, and hiking. Palm Springs is more touristy than Minneapolis and is popular for its golfing, shopping, and mid-century modern architecture. Minneapolis is famous for its professional sports teams, countless outdoor activities, and friendly people. It is also well known for Mall of America.

How is Minneapolis different from Palm Springs?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Minneapolis is notable 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.

Many visitors head to Minneapolis specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. There's a wide variety of museums that include art, history, science, and local culture. Some of the favorite museums in the city are the Minneapolis Institute of Art, the Walker Art Center, the American Swedish Institute, and the Weisman Art 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 the Food Better in Minneapolis or Palm Springs? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Palm Springs is a very popular place for its restaurants. Also, Minneapolis is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

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.

There are many up and coming restaurants in the Minneapolis area. Dishes in the Midwest are known for being hearty comfort foods, and the food in Minneapolis is no exception. You'll find cheese-stuffed burgers that are known as Juicy Lucys, Tator Tot casseroles, and deep-fried cheese curds. For international food, there's a variety of Scandinavian options around town.

Is Minneapolis or Palm Springs Better for Nightlife?

Palm Springs is a world-class destination for nightlife and partying. Also, Minneapolis is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its evening party scene.

People head to Palm Springs just to party. 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.

Minneapolis is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. There are diverse neighborhoods that each have their own personality. You'll find rooftop lounges in Uptown, international venues in Whittier, and trendy bars in the North Loop. But at the heart of the city's nightlife scene is Downtown Minneapolis.

Is Minneapolis or Palm Springs Better for Resorts?

Palm Springs is a world-class destination for its luxury resorts. However, Minneapolis 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.

Minneapolis is not a resort destination.

Is Minneapolis or Palm Springs Better for Hiking?

Palm Springs is a very popular place for its hiking trails. However, Minneapolis is not a hiking destination.

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.

Minneapolis is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Minneapolis or Palm Springs?

Minneapolis 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.

Minneapolis is a famous shopping destination with plenty of stores. Known for the megamall, Mall of America, this is a shopper's paradise. Mall of America is the largest shopping mall in the country and it even has an aquarium and a theme park within it. In addition to this iconic shopping mall, Minneapolis also has many shopping districts including the Minnehaha Mile.

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 Minneapolis or Palm Springs Better for Families?

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

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Minneapolis is very family-friendly. Mall of America is at the top of the list for most families, but there's also plenty of kid-friendly museums around town as well as nature centers, parks, and playgrounds. There's the Como Park Zoo and Conservatory, the Minnesota Zoo, and Afton Apple Orchard. For museums, kids will love the Minnesota Children's Museum or the Science Museum of Minnesota.

Palm Springs is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. 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 Minneapolis or Palm Springs Better for Couples?

Palm Springs is a very popular place for its romantic activities. Also, Minneapolis is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for couples.

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.

Minneapolis is a good city for couples to visit. There are beautiful parks and outdoor spaces to explore as well as museums and fine dining. Couples will appreciate stopping by the Stone Arch Bridge or wandering through the Lyndale Park Rose Garden.

Is Minneapolis or Palm Springs Better for Students?

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

Minneapolis is very popular with students. There are a number of colleges and universities in the area including the University of Minnesota. The city is known for its academic and intellectual focus, and students will enjoy being challenged educationally while enjoying a dynamic city.

Palm Springs is not popular with students.

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

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

Minneapolis has a few public transit options. There are buses, light rail, and commuter trains that stop at many of the major entertainment centers around town.

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 Minneapolis or Palm Springs a more walkable city?

Minneapolis and Palm Springs are nice when it comes to walkability.

Minneapolis is a somewhat walkable place. There are neighborhoods that are dense enough to be walkable, but the city is still very car-focused.

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

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

Should I spend more time in Palm Springs or Minneapolis?

How long in Minneapolis or Palm Springs?

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

Families should spend more time in Palm Springs than Minneapolis. 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 Minneapolis. 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 Minneapolis 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 Minneapolis.

One day in Minneapolis or Palm Springs?

In Minneapolis, many people enjoy the food and shopping that this dynamic city offers. 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 Minneapolis or Palm Springs?

Minneapolis is a fun place to experience. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. Lots of people come for the shopping. So, a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the outdoorsy 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 Minneapolis or Palm Springs?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the innovative destination of Minneapolis. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Lots of people come for the shopping. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days.

The chic 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 Minneapolis or Palm Springs?

Minneapolis is a popular place to visit. 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.

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 One Week (7-Day) Tours in United States of America, The Best 2-Week Tours in United States of America, The Best 3-Week Tours in United States of America, and The Best Bicycle Tours in United States of America.

When comparing the travel costs between Minneapolis 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 Minneapolis Expensive? and Is Palm Springs Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Minneapolis or Palm Springs?

Minneapolis has a larger population, and is about 9 times larger than the population of Palm Springs. When comparing the sizes of Minneapolis 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 Minneapolis 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 Minneapolis or Palm Springs in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Minneapolis as well as Palm Springs. Most visitors come to Minneapolis for the city activities 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.

In July, Minneapolis is generally around the same temperature as Palm Springs. Daily temperatures in Minneapolis average around 76°F (25°C), and Palm Springs fluctuates around 73°F (23°C).

Minneapolis usually gets more rain in July than Palm Springs. Minneapolis gets 3.4 inches (86 mm) of rain, while Palm Springs receives 0 inches (1 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Minneapolis or Palm Springs in the Autumn?

Both Palm Springs and Minneapolis are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The autumn months attract visitors to Minneapolis because of the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene. Also, the hiking trails and the shopping scene are the main draw to Palm Springs this time of year.

Minneapolis is much colder than Palm Springs in the autumn. The daily temperature in Minneapolis averages around 52°F (11°C) in October, and Palm Springs fluctuates around 69°F (20°C).

In October, Minneapolis usually receives more rain than Palm Springs. Minneapolis gets 1.8 inches (45 mm) of rain, while Palm Springs receives 0.3 inches (7 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Minneapolis or Palm Springs in the Winter?

Both Palm Springs and Minneapolis during the winter are popular places to visit. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Minneapolis this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Palm Springs for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

It's quite cold in Minneapolis in the winter. In the winter, Minneapolis is much colder than Palm Springs. Typically, the winter temperatures in Minneapolis in January average around 15°F (-10°C), and Palm Springs averages at about 57°F (14°C).

Minneapolis usually gets less rain in January than Palm Springs. Minneapolis gets 0.9 inches (22 mm) of rain, while Palm Springs receives 2 inches (52 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Minneapolis or Palm Springs in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Minneapolis and Palm Springs. Many travelers come to Minneapolis for the activities around the city.

In April, Minneapolis is generally much colder than Palm Springs. Daily temperatures in Minneapolis average around 49°F (10°C), and Palm Springs fluctuates around 62°F (17°C).

In April, Minneapolis usually receives more rain than Palm Springs. Minneapolis gets 2.1 inches (53 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 Minneapolis