A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Palm Springs vs. Grand Teton National Park for Nightlife, Resorts, Hiking, and Couples

Should you visit Palm Springs or Grand Teton National Park?

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 Grand Teton National Park can help you decide which place is right for you.

Palm Springs

Palm Springs is a outdoorsy, ritzy, and chic city. Other reasons to visit include hiking, shopping, and museums.

Grand Teton National Park

Grand Teton National Park is a impressive, vast, and spectacular park. You'll find world class beauty here as well. It's also known for hiking.

Palm Springs and Grand Teton National Park: Pros and Cons

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


Is there more to do in Palm Springs or Grand Teton National Park?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Palm Springs. Although Palm Springs and Grand Teton National Park are both popular with visitors, Palm Springs has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Palm Springs is more popular for its museums, food, nightlife, resorts, and shopping, while Grand Teton National Park is known for its hiking and impressive beauty. Palm Springs is more touristy than Grand Teton National Park and is popular for its golfing, shopping, and mid-century modern architecture. It is also home to the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway. Grand Teton National Park is popular for its grand peaks and diverse wildlife.

How is Palm Springs different from Grand Teton National Park?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Palm Springs or Grand Teton National Park?

Palm Springs
Grand Teton National Park

Palm Springs is a popular place for its historical sights. However, Grand Teton National Park is not known for its sights and museums.

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.

Grand Teton National Park offers a handful of options for museums and historical sights. The Visitor Centers have exhibits and other informational sessions.


Is the Food Better in Palm Springs or Grand Teton National Park? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Palm Springs
Grand Teton National Park

Palm Springs is a great city for its local flavors and cuisine. However, Grand Teton National Park is not known for its local cuisine and restaurants.

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in 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.

You'll find the standard options when it comes to food in Grand Teton National Park. There are a number of restaurants and cafes around the park where you can enjoy a meal, often with a view.

Is Palm Springs or Grand Teton National Park Better for Nightlife?

Palm Springs
Grand Teton National Park

Palm Springs is a must-visit destination for nightlife. However, Grand Teton National Park is not known for nightlife and partying.

Palm Springs is a world class party destination. 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.

Most people don't head to Grand Teton National Park specifically for the nightlife scene, but you can find a few options. There's a lounge at Jackson Lake Lodge, but most visitors enjoy a relaxing night in.

Is Palm Springs or Grand Teton National Park Better for Resorts?

Palm Springs
Grand Teton National Park

Palm Springs is a must-visit destination for its luxury resorts. Also, Grand Teton National Park is not as popular, but is still a nice park for its 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 Grand Teton National Park. There are several impressive lodges within the park, as well as cabins and more rustic hotels.


Is Palm Springs or Grand Teton National Park Better for Hiking?

Palm Springs
Grand Teton National Park

Grand Teton National Park is an amazing park 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 Grand Teton National Park specifically for its hiking. Grand Teton National Park has more than 250 miles of trails that make their way through the mountains and around the rugged landscapes. There are hikes that range from short strolls to backcountry, mult-day trails and it's not uncommon to see wildlife.

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 Palm Springs or Grand Teton National Park?

Palm Springs
Grand Teton National Park

Palm Springs is a great city for shopping. However, Grand Teton National Park is not known for its shopping opportunities.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting 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.

If you're looking to go shopping, Grand Teton National Park has some nice offerings. There are park stores where you can pick up souvenirs or gifts.

Is Palm Springs or Grand Teton National Park Better for Families?

Palm Springs
Grand Teton National Park

You'll find great kid-friendly activities in either Palm Springs or Grand Teton National Park.

Palm Springs is 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.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Grand Teton National Park is very family-friendly. Kids will enjoy the hiking and wildlife spotting. There's also horseback riding and Ranger Programs that are designed for all ages.


Is Palm Springs or Grand Teton National Park Better for Couples?

Palm Springs
Grand Teton National Park

Grand Teton National Park is an amazing park 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, Grand Teton National Park has plenty to offer. With its stunning mountain views and scenic hikes, couples will be surrounded by romance. Many people visit the park for their honeymoon, or even for the wedding itself, and the setting couldn't be more spectacular.

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 Palm Springs or Grand Teton National Park Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Palm Springs
Grand Teton National Park

Grand Teton National Park is an amazing park to visit for backpackers. However, Palm Springs is a mediocre city for backpackers and budget travelers.

Grand Teton National Park is a mecca for backpackers and budget travelers. There are hostels, campgrounds, and backcountry hiking and camping that backpackers really enjoy.

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 Grand Teton National Park Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Palm Springs
Grand Teton National Park

Palm Springs is adequate for times when you don't have a car. However, Grand Teton National Park is not known 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 Grand Teton National Park. There's no public transportation within the park.


Is Palm Springs or Grand Teton National Park a more walkable city?

Palm Springs
Grand Teton National Park

Palm Springs is a popular place for its walkability. However, Grand Teton National Park is not known for its high level of walkability.

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

Grand Teton National Park is generally not very walkable. You'll need a car to reach most of the trail heads.

For even more information, also check out Is Palm Springs Worth Visiting? and Is Grand Teton National Park Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Grand Teton National Park or Palm Springs?

How long in Palm Springs or Grand Teton National Park?

Both Palm Springs and Grand Teton National Park have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Grand Teton National Park than in Palm Springs. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Palm Springs, and 3-7 days is enough time in Grand Teton National Park.

Families should spend more time in Palm Springs than Grand Teton National Park. 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 Grand Teton National Park. 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.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Palm Springs than Grand Teton National Park 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 Palm Springs or Grand Teton National Park? Ideal Length of Stay
    Palm Springs 2-4 
    Grand Teton National Park 3-7

One day in Palm Springs or Grand Teton National Park?

Visitors enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the chic city of Palm Springs. People enjoy 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. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

In Grand Teton National Park, many people enjoy the that this impressive park 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 Grand Teton National Park?

Visitors enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the destination of Palm Springs. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. Anyone can find something fun to do here. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend. Most people visit for the nightlife. Because of this, a weekend is usually enough time for a trip here.

Grand Teton National Park 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. Lots of people come for the hiking. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring.


Five days in Palm Springs or Grand Teton National Park?

Palm Springs is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything. It offers something for everyone.

In Grand Teton National Park, many people enjoy the that this impressive destination offers. 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. Lots of people come for the hiking. So, five days is just the right amount of time to spend here.

A week in Palm Springs or Grand Teton National Park?

Palm Springs is a popular choice for travelers. Most people visit for the nightlife. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Grand Teton National Park 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.


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.


Which place is cheaper, Grand Teton National Park or Palm Springs?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Palm Springs is $206, while the average daily cost in Grand Teton National Park is $162. 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 Palm Springs and Grand Teton National Park in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Palm Springs $120
    Grand Teton National Park $79
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Palm Springs $240
    Grand Teton National Park $158
Compare Hotels in Palm Springs and Grand Teton National Park

Looking for a hotel in Palm Springs or Grand Teton National Park? 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 Palm Springs


Hotels in Grand Teton National Park


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 and Grand Teton National Park Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Palm Springs $52
    Grand Teton National Park $52

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Palm Springs

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Palm Springs:

  • Palm Springs Airport to Snow Summit - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $262
  • Private Airport Transfer in Palm Springs: $195
  • Palm Springs Airport to Desert Hot Springs Round-Trip Transfer: $175
  • Palm Springs Airport (PSP) to LOS ANGELES - Arrival Private Transfer: $171
  • Palm Springs Airport (PSP) to INDIAN WELLS - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $162
  • Private Transfer from PSP to Palm Desert / Indian Wells: $135
  • Palm Springs Airport PSP to Snow Summit-Arrival Private Transfer: $131
  • Palm Springs Airport (PSP) to LA QUINTA/INDIO - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $129
  • Palm Springs International Airport (PSP) to SANTA ANA - Arrival Private Transfer: $128
  • Palm Springs International Airport (PSP) to ONTARIO - Arrival Private Transfer: $105
  • Desert Hot Springs to Palm Springs Airport Departure Transfer: $87
  • Palm Springs Airport (PSP) to Desert Hot Springs Private Transfer: $87

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Grand Teton National Park

Also for Grand Teton National Park, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Private SUV Transfers to/ from Jackson Hole Airport JAC: $105
  • Private Luxury 4wd SUV To/From Transfer Jackson Hole Airport: $140

Is it cheaper to fly into Palm Springs or Grand Teton National Park?

Prices for flights to both Grand Teton National Park and Palm Springs 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
    Palm Springs $53
    Grand Teton National Park $46

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Grand Teton National Park

For Grand Teton National Park, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Jackson Hole Chuckwagon Dinner: $75
  • Dinner Cookout Ride at Heart Six Ranch: $145

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Palm Springs $29
    Grand Teton National Park $43

Tours and Activities in Palm Springs

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Palm Springs are as follows:

  • 10+ Self-Guided Driving Tours from Las Vegas: $50
  • 100+ Self Guided Driving & Walking Tours by Action: $100
  • Best of Palm Springs Small Group Tour w/ Aerial Tram: $166
  • Covered Wagon Adventure & BBQ: $129
  • Death Valley National Park Self-Guided Audio Driving Tour: $17
  • Desert Healing Experience: $175
  • Earthquake Canyon Express Downhill Bicycle Adventure: $139
  • Food Adventure Game: $99
  • Indian Canyons Walking Tour by Jeep from Palm Springs: $200
  • Joshua Tree National Park Driving Tour : $235
  • Joshua Tree National Park Offroad Tour: $235
  • Joshua Tree National Park Scenic Tour: $149

Tours and Activities in Grand Teton National Park

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Grand Teton National Park.

  • Snake River Scenic Float Private Guided Tour: $225

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Palm Springs $13
    Grand Teton National Park $19


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

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 Grand Teton National Park Expensive?.