A Travel Price Comparison for California Palm Springs vs. Redwood National Park for Hiking, Backpackers, Families, and Couples

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

Palm Springs

Palm Springs is a chic, outdoorsy, and ritzy city. Other popular activities here include food, hiking, and shopping.

Redwood National Park

Redwood National Park is a grand, impressive, and monumental park. You'll find world class beauty here as well. It's also known for beaches and hiking.

Palm Springs and Redwood National Park: Pros and Cons

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

Visitors will usually find more to do in Palm Springs than Redwood National Park, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Palm Springs is better known for its museums, food, nightlife, resorts, and shopping, while Redwood National Park is more popular for its beaches, hiking, and impressive beauty. Palm Springs is more touristy than Redwood National Park and is known for its golfing, shopping, and mid-century modern architecture. Also, Palm Springs is famous for the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway. Redwood National Park is well known for being the home of the world's tallest trees.

How is Palm Springs different from Redwood National Park?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Palm Springs is a good destination for its museums and landmarks. However, Redwood National Park is not particularly known for its historical sights.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Palm Springs. 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.

If you're looking to pass the time, head to a museum or historic sight in Redwood National Park. There is little in the form of museums, but you can visit the Thomas H. Kuchel Visitor Center on the south side of the park and see exhibits about Yurok culture and the area's ecology.

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

Palm Springs is well known for its restaurant scene. However, Redwood National Park is not particularly known for its local flavors and cuisine.

Dining out in Palm Springs is an experience not to be missed. 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.

While Redwood National Park is not famous for its food, you'll find what you need there. There are no dining or grocery options within the park but there are some options just outside the park.

Is Palm Springs or Redwood National Park Better for Nightlife?

Palm Springs is an amazing city to visit for its evening party scene. However, Redwood National Park is not particularly known 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.

The nightlife scene is quiet in Redwood National Park The laid back setting offers little in the form of nightlife.

Is Palm Springs or Redwood National Park Better for Resorts?

Palm Springs is an amazing city to visit for its resorts. However, Redwood National Park is not a resort destination.

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.

Redwood National Park is not a resort destination.

Is Palm Springs or Redwood National Park Better for Beaches?

Redwood National Park is very good for its beaches. However, Palm Springs is not a beach destination.

Many people head to Redwood National Park to enjoy the beach. The park runs along the Pacific coastline and there are 70 miles of coastal trail in the park. Beaches are rugged and sandy and favorite sections include Gold Bluff Beach, Crescent Beach, and Enderts Beach, which has great tidal pools.

Palm Springs is not a beach destination.

Is Palm Springs or Redwood National Park Better for Hiking?

Redwood 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 Redwood National Park specifically for its hiking. Hikes range from coastal trails to world-renowned hikes through the redwoods. You'll feel humbled in the presence of these grand and majestic trees. Several of the most well-known hikes include Fern Canyon, the Cathedral Trees Trail, and Redwood Creek Trail.

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 Redwood National Park?

Palm Springs is well known for its shopping areas. However, Redwood National Park is not particularly known for shopping.

Browsing through shops is a popular activity 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.

Shopping in Redwood National Park can be found for those interested. You'll find park stores at the visitor centers if you want to pick up a small gift or souvenir.

Is Palm Springs or Redwood National Park Better for Families?

You'll find high quality kid-friendly activities in either Palm Springs or Redwood 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, Redwood National Park is very family-friendly. There are plenty of kid-friendly hikes in the park and the kids will love exploring the varied landscapes and diverse ecosystems. Less than a mile long, Fern Canyon is the perfect hike for little kids and it's not-to-be-missed. Cathedral Trees Trail is three miles, and also a highlight of any trip to the park.

Is Palm Springs or Redwood National Park Better for Couples?

Both Palm Springs and Redwood National Park are high quality 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.

Redwood National Park makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. There are historic lodges that make for a romantic getaway. You can fill your days with hikes through magical landscapes and breathtaking settings surrounded by the impressive redwoods.

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

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

Redwood National Park is a mecca for backpackers and budget travelers. There are miles of backcountry trails that let you can explore the park in relative peace and solitude. This is an amazing way to experience the park, but do 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 Redwood National Park Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Palm Springs is a city with a few options for its public transit. However, Redwood National Park is not particularly known for times when you don't have a car.

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 quite limited in Redwood National Park. There's no public transportation within the park.

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

Palm Springs is a good destination for its ease of walking around. However, Redwood National Park is not particularly known 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.

Redwood National Park is not a very walkable city. The park is large and spread out, so you'll need a car to get around.

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

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

How long in Palm Springs or Redwood National Park?

In either Palm Springs or Redwood National Park, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Redwood 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 3-5 days is enough time in Redwood National Park.

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

One day in Palm Springs or Redwood 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 Redwood National Park, many people enjoy the that this monumental 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 Redwood 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.

Redwood National Park is a fun place to experience. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. 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 Redwood 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 Redwood National Park, many people enjoy the that this grand 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 Redwood National Park?

You'll find food and shopping around the outdoorsy 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.

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

When is the best time to visit Palm Springs or Redwood 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 Redwood National Park in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Palm Springs and Redwood National Park. Many visitors come to Palm Springs in the summer for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, most visitors come to Redwood National Park for the beaches, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In July, Palm Springs is generally much warmer than Redwood National Park. Daily temperatures in Palm Springs average around 73°F (23°C), and Redwood National Park fluctuates around 57°F (14°C).

In July, Palm Springs usually receives less rain than Redwood National Park. Palm Springs gets 0 inches (1 mm) of rain, while Redwood National Park receives 0.1 inches (3 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

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

The autumn brings many poeple to Palm Springs as well as Redwood National Park. Most visitors come to Palm Springs for the hiking trails and the shopping scene during these months. Additionally, the autumn months attract visitors to Redwood National Park because of the hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area.

Palm Springs is much warmer than Redwood National Park in the autumn. The daily temperature in Palm Springs averages around 69°F (20°C) in October, and Redwood National Park fluctuates around 55°F (13°C).

Palm Springs usually gets less rain in October than Redwood National Park. Palm Springs gets 0.3 inches (7 mm) of rain, while Redwood National Park receives 2.7 inches (68 mm) of rain this time of the year.

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

Both Redwood National Park and Palm Springs are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The winter months attract visitors to Palm Springs because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

In the winter, Palm Springs is much warmer than Redwood National Park. Typically, the winter temperatures in Palm Springs in January average around 57°F (14°C), and Redwood National Park averages at about 48°F (9°C).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Redwood National Park. In January, Palm Springs usually receives less rain than Redwood National Park. Palm Springs gets 2 inches (52 mm) of rain, while Redwood National Park receives 6 inches (152 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

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

Both Redwood National Park and Palm Springs during the spring are popular places to visit. Also, many travelers come to Redwood National Park for the beaches and the natural beauty.

In April, Palm Springs is generally much warmer than Redwood National Park. Daily temperatures in Palm Springs average around 62°F (17°C), and Redwood National Park fluctuates around 50°F (10°C).

Palm Springs usually gets less rain in April than Redwood National Park. Palm Springs gets 0.9 inches (24 mm) of rain, while Redwood National Park receives 2.9 inches (73 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Redwood National Park and Palm Springs