A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Palm Springs vs. Olympic National Park for Resorts, Hiking, Backpackers, and Food

Should you visit Palm Springs or Olympic 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 Olympic National Park can help you decide which place is right for you.

Palm Springs

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

Olympic National Park

Olympic National Park is a vast, pristine, and stunning park. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for food, hiking, and museums.

Palm Springs and Olympic National Park: Pros and Cons

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

Travelers will usually find more to do in Palm Springs. Although Palm Springs and Olympic National Park are popular destinations, Palm Springs has more sights and attractions for tourists. Palm Springs is very popular for its food, nightlife, resorts, and shopping, while Olympic National Park attracts visitors for its hiking and impressive beauty. Palm Springs is more touristy than Olympic National Park and is known for its golfing, shopping, and mid-century modern architecture. It is also well known for the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway. Olympic National Park is famous for its diverse landscapes and its frequent rainfall.

How is Palm Springs different from Olympic National Park?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Olympic 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 Olympic National Park?

Both Palm Springs and Olympic National Park have nice 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.

Olympic National Park offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. There are several museums near the park that highlight the region's history, culture, and geology. These include the Makah Cultural & Research Center Museum, Forks Timber Museum, Sequim Museum, and Squaxin Island Museum, Library and Research Center.

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

Palm Springs is a well-known place for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Olympic National Park is not as famous, but is still a good park 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.

Olympic National Park is becoming an appealing option for foodies. Most of the lodges have restaurants within the park, but they can be overpriced. There are also restaurants just outside of the park's border.

Is Palm Springs or Olympic National Park Better for Nightlife?

Palm Springs is a must-visit destination for nightlife and partying. However, Olympic National Park is not a good park for its evening party scene.

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.

Olympic National Park doesn't offer many options. You can enjoy a peaceful natural setting after the sun sets.

Is Palm Springs or Olympic National Park Better for Resorts?

Palm Springs is a must-visit destination for its resorts. Also, Olympic National Park is not as famous, but is still a good park 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 Olympic National Park. There are several lodges within the park as well as cabins and inns. Some have a historic atmosphere while others are more rustic. It's best to book well in advance, particularly if you're visiting during the peak summer months.

Is Palm Springs or Olympic National Park Better for Hiking?

Olympic 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 Olympic National Park specifically for its hiking. Hiking trails will take you through the diverse range of landscapes. There are mountain climbs, coastal trails, and routes that wander through old growth forests. You'll also find a mix of day hikes and backcountry wilderness hikes. Mount Storm King, Marymere Falls, and the High Divide are favorite hikes in the park, but there are countless others.

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 Olympic National Park?

Palm Springs is a well-known place for its shopping opportunities. However, Olympic National Park is not a good park 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.

Olympic National Park has some good spots for those that want to go shopping. There's a park store where you can pick up books, informational resources, and souvenirs.

Is Palm Springs or Olympic National Park Better for Families?

You'll find great kid-friendly activities in either Palm Springs or Olympic 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, Olympic National Park is very family-friendly. Kids will enjoy exploring the tidal pools and running around the beach. It's also fun to lose yourself in the old growth rainforests and spend some time kayaking or canoeing at Lake Crescent.

Is Palm Springs or Olympic National Park Better for Couples?

Both Palm Springs and Olympic National Park are great destinations to visit as a couple.

Palm Springs is a very popular place to visit for couples. 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.

Olympic National Park makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Couples who enjoy hiking, camping, and natural beauty will love exploring this park together. There are a diversity of ecosystems and landscapes where you can enjoy a couples retreat together.

Is Palm Springs or Olympic National Park Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

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

Olympic National Park is a mecca for backpackers and budget travelers. There are many beautiful backcountry destinations that let you experience this park in depth. Make sure you purchase a permit in advance.

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

Both Palm Springs and Olympic National Park offer reasonable public transit options.

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 mostly limited in Olympic National Park. There are buses and ferries to the park, but the park is large and requires a private vehicle to fully access it.

Is Palm Springs or Olympic National Park a more walkable city?

Palm Springs is a popular place for its high level of walkability. However, Olympic National Park is not a good park for its ease of walking around.

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

Olympic National Park is not a very walkable city. The park is large and you'll need a car to reach most of the trailheads.

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

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

How long in Palm Springs or Olympic National Park?

In either Palm Springs or Olympic National Park, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Olympic National Park than Palm Springs because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Palm Springs, and 2-5 days is enough time in Olympic National Park.

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

One day in Palm Springs or Olympic National Park?

In Palm Springs, you'll find shopping and museums. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. One reason most visitors come is for the nightlife. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

In Olympic National Park, many people enjoy the museums and food that this stunning 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 Olympic National Park?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Palm Springs. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. One reason most visitors come is for the nightlife. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this city. It offers something for everyone.

Olympic National Park is a fun place to experience. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. 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 hiking. So, a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

Five days in Palm Springs or Olympic National Park?

Palm Springs is a fun place to experience. One reason most visitors come is for the nightlife. 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. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

In Olympic National Park, many people enjoy the museums and food that this stunning 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 Olympic National Park?

You'll find food and shopping around the chic destination of Palm Springs. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

Olympic National Park 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 Olympic National Park, we can see that Palm Springs is more expensive. And not only is Olympic National Park much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Olympic National Park would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Olympic 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 Olympic 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 Olympic National Park Expensive?.

When is the best time to visit Palm Springs or Olympic National Park?

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 Palm Springs or Olympic National Park in the Summer?

Both Olympic National Park and Palm Springs are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Palm Springs for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Olympic National Park because of the hiking and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Palm Springs is a little warmer than Olympic National Park. Typically, the summer temperatures in Palm Springs in July average around 73°F (23°C), and Olympic National Park averages at about 60°F (15°C).

In July, Palm Springs usually receives less rain than Olympic National Park. Palm Springs gets 0 inches (1 mm) of rain, while Olympic National Park receives 2.8 inches (70 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Palm Springs or Olympic National Park in the Autumn?

Both Olympic National Park and Palm Springs during the autumn are popular places to visit. 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 Olympic National Park this time of year.

In October, Palm Springs is generally much warmer than Olympic National Park. Daily temperatures in Palm Springs average around 69°F (20°C), and Olympic National Park fluctuates around 51°F (10°C).

Olympic National Park gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Palm Springs usually gets less rain in October than Olympic National Park. Palm Springs gets 0.3 inches (7 mm) of rain, while Olympic National Park receives 10.4 inches (263 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Palm Springs or Olympic National Park in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Palm Springs and Olympic National Park. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Palm Springs this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Olympic National Park for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Olympic National Park. Palm Springs is much warmer than Olympic National Park in the winter. The daily temperature in Palm Springs averages around 57°F (14°C) in January, and Olympic National Park fluctuates around 41°F (5°C).

Olympic National Park receives a lot of rain in the winter. In January, Palm Springs usually receives less rain than Olympic National Park. Palm Springs gets 2 inches (52 mm) of rain, while Olympic National Park receives 13.7 inches (349 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Palm Springs or Olympic National Park in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Palm Springs as well as Olympic National Park. Additionally, many visitors come to Olympic National Park in the spring for the natural beauty.

In the spring, Palm Springs is much warmer than Olympic National Park. Typically, the spring temperatures in Palm Springs in April average around 62°F (17°C), and Olympic National Park averages at about 47°F (8°C).

It's quite rainy in Olympic National Park. Palm Springs usually gets less rain in April than Olympic National Park. Palm Springs gets 0.9 inches (24 mm) of rain, while Olympic National Park receives 7.4 inches (189 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Olympic National Park and Palm Springs