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

Should you visit Palm Springs or Fairbanks?

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

Which city is more affordable and which is best for your travel style? If you're trying to figure out where to go next, comparing the travel costs between Palm Springs and Fairbanks can help you decide which place is right for you.

Palm Springs

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

Fairbanks

Fairbanks is a outdoorsy, remote, and Arctic city. You'll find world class beauty here as well. It's also known for hiking, shopping, and museums.

Palm Springs and Fairbanks: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Palm Springs or Fairbanks?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Palm Springs than Fairbanks, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Palm Springs is better known for its food, nightlife, resorts, and shopping, while Fairbanks is more popular for its skiing and impressive beauty. Palm Springs is more touristy than Fairbanks and is popular for its golfing, shopping, and mid-century modern architecture. Also, Palm Springs is famous for the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway. Fairbanks is well known for its remote wilderness setting, access to the Arctic, unique winter sports, and popularity for seeing the northern lights.

How is Palm Springs different from Fairbanks?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Palm Springs or Fairbanks Better for Skiing?

Fairbanks is a moderate city for snow skiing. However, Palm Springs is not a skiing destination.

Locals like to visit Fairbanks to take advantage of their winter sports. The closest ski areas are the ski resorts of Fort Wainwright/Birch Hill, Moose Mountain and Skiland. The area also has dog mushing, snowshoeing, sledding, tubing and sleigh riding.

Palm Springs is not a skiing destination.

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

Both Palm Springs and Fairbanks have notable landmarks and museums for visitors.

Palm Springs is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. 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.

Fairbanks offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. The city is mostly known for its outdoor activities, but you can also visit the Morris Thompson Cultural & Visitors Center, the Aurora Ice Museum, Fountainhead Auto Museum, the Museum of the North, and Pioneer Park.

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

Palm Springs is a very popular place for its restaurants. However, Fairbanks is lacking in good options for its restaurant scene.

Palm Springs has a number of nationally recognized food spots and 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.

Fairbanks offers some easy restaurants to choose from. Food can be expensive and of varying quality, but many restaurants use local meats and seafood. There's a surprising number of international restaurants in town as well. Also make sure you try the local specialties like reindeer sausage, Yukon gold potatoes, and Alaskan salmon.

Is Palm Springs or Fairbanks Better for Nightlife?

Palm Springs is an amazing city to visit for its evening party scene. However, Fairbanks is lacking in good 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.

Things get quiet in the evenings in Fairbanks. You will find some bars around town, but for the most part, the city stays quiet at night.

Is Palm Springs or Fairbanks Better for Resorts?

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

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.

Fairbanks is not a resort destination.

Is Palm Springs or Fairbanks Better for Hiking?

You'll find great hiking in both Palm Springs and Fairbanks.

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.

Many visitors explore the nearby hiking trails while visiting Fairbanks. While the town serves as a gateway to the Arctic and all that it has to offer, there are also hiking trails both in town and nearby. There are trails that connect the city's historic sites as well as day hikes that start at the edge of town.

Is the Shopping Better in Palm Springs or Fairbanks?

Palm Springs is a very popular place for its shopping areas. Also, Fairbanks is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for shopping.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas 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.

Fairbanks is a great destination for shopping. There are interesting local shops and boutiques that sell native Alaskan handmade items. You'll find "Made in Alaska" merchandise at many boutiques and souvenir shops. There are also larger retailers available in case you forgot clothing or other items at home.

Is Palm Springs or Fairbanks Better for Families?

Palm Springs is a very popular place for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Fairbanks is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

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.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Fairbanks. Kids who enjoy searching for wildlife, playing in the snow, and exploring nature will love a visit to Fairbanks. Make sure you visit the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge as well as Pioneer Park.

Is Palm Springs or Fairbanks Better for Couples?

Palm Springs is a very popular place for couples. Also, Fairbanks is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for romance.

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.

Fairbanks is a nice destination for couples. Couples who enjoy hiking and nature will love a visit here. If you're hoping to see the northern lights, Fairbanks is your best destination in Alaska. Try to visit sometime between August to April for the best chance of enjoying the lights.

Is Palm Springs or Fairbanks Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

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

Backpackers come from all over to visit Fairbanks. There are many outdoor recreation areas where backpackers can explore. Alaska, and Fairbanks in particular, can have very harsh conditions, so unless you know what you're doing, it's best to take a guide.

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

Palm Springs is a decent place to visit for times when you don't have a car. However, Fairbanks is lacking in good options for its public transit.

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.

Public transit is limited or non-existant in Fairbanks. There is a public bus system that connects the downtown area with the shopping areas and the university. However, you really can't rely on it to explore the region and you should have your own vehicle.

Is Palm Springs or Fairbanks a more walkable city?

Palm Springs is a popular place for its ease of walking around. However, Fairbanks is lacking in good 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.

Fairbanks is not a walkable city. The city was built for cars and there are very few walkable areas around town.

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

Should I spend more time in Fairbanks or Palm Springs?

How long in Palm Springs or Fairbanks?

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

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

One day in Palm Springs or Fairbanks?

You'll find shopping and museums around the city of Palm Springs. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

In Fairbanks, many people enjoy the museums and shopping that this outdoorsy city 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.

A weekend in Palm Springs or Fairbanks?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the outdoorsy destination of Palm Springs. Hikers are also drawn to this area. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Fairbanks 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.

Five days in Palm Springs or Fairbanks?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the outdoorsy city of Palm Springs. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. It's also a relaxing resort destination. Most people head to the area for the nightlife. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

You'll find museums and shopping around the outdoorsy destination of Fairbanks. 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.

A week in Palm Springs or Fairbanks?

Palm Springs is a popular choice for travelers. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. One week 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. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Fairbanks 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.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 2-Week Tours from San Francisco, The Best 2-Week Tours from Los Angeles, The Best Family-Friendly Tours to United States of America, and The Best Wildlife Tours to United States of America.

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

Which is Bigger, Palm Springs or Fairbanks?

Palm Springs has a larger population, and is about 42% larger than the population of Fairbanks. When comparing the sizes of Palm Springs and Fairbanks, 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 Palm Springs or Fairbanks?

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 Palm Springs or Fairbanks in the Summer?

Both Fairbanks and Palm Springs during the summer are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Palm Springs for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Furthermore, the summer months attract visitors to Fairbanks because of the hiking and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Palm Springs is generally a little warmer than Fairbanks. Daily temperatures in Palm Springs average around 73°F (23°C), and Fairbanks fluctuates around 64°F (18°C).

Palm Springs usually gets less rain in July than Fairbanks. Palm Springs gets 0 inches (1 mm) of rain, while Fairbanks receives 2 inches (51 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Palm Springs or Fairbanks in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Palm Springs and Fairbanks. The autumn months attract visitors to Palm Springs because of the hiking trails and the shopping scene. Furthermore, the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Fairbanks this time of year.

It's quite cold in Fairbanks in the autumn. Palm Springs is much warmer than Fairbanks in the autumn. The daily temperature in Palm Springs averages around 69°F (20°C) in October, and Fairbanks fluctuates around 27°F (-3°C).

In October, Palm Springs usually receives less rain than Fairbanks. Palm Springs gets 0.3 inches (7 mm) of rain, while Fairbanks receives 0.9 inches (22 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Palm Springs or Fairbanks in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Palm Springs as well as Fairbanks. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Palm Springs this time of year. Additionally, many travelers come to Fairbanks for the skiing, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Fairbanks. In the winter, Palm Springs is much warmer than Fairbanks. Typically, the winter temperatures in Palm Springs in January average around 57°F (14°C), and Fairbanks averages at about -9°F (-23°C).

Palm Springs usually gets more rain in January than Fairbanks. Palm Springs gets 2 inches (52 mm) of rain, while Fairbanks receives 0.5 inches (13 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Palm Springs or Fairbanks in the Spring?

Both Fairbanks and Palm Springs are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Also, many visitors come to Fairbanks in the spring for the natural beauty.

Fairbanks can get quite cold in the spring. In April, Palm Springs is generally much warmer than Fairbanks. Daily temperatures in Palm Springs average around 62°F (17°C), and Fairbanks fluctuates around 32°F (0°C).

In April, Palm Springs usually receives more rain than Fairbanks. Palm Springs gets 0.9 inches (24 mm) of rain, while Fairbanks receives 0.4 inches (9 mm) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Fairbanks and Palm Springs