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

Should you visit Palm Springs or Seattle?

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 Seattle 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 museums, nightlife, and food.

Seattle

Seattle is a outdoorsy, laid-back, and bustling city. It's a large city with plenty of activites for visitors as well. It's a gorgeous place to visit. It's also known for hiking, shopping, and museums.

Palm Springs and Seattle: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Palm Springs or Seattle?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Seattle than Palm Springs, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Seattle is better known for its museums, theatre productions, music, beaches, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Palm Springs is more popular for its nightlife, resorts, and shopping. Palm Springs is more touristy than Seattle and is known for its golfing, shopping, and mid-century modern architecture. Seattle is well known for its beautiful waterfront setting, diverse culinary scene, thriving art and cultural venues, and being the home of many international tech companies. Also, Seattle is famous for The Space Needle.

How is Palm Springs different from Seattle?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Seattle 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 Seattle?

Seattle 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 Seattle specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. The city's most iconic landmark is the Space Needle. There's also a zoo, aquarium, and a handful of nice museums. Several favorites include the Chihuly Garden and Glass, the Museum of History & Industry, and the Seattle 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 Palm Springs or Seattle Better for Theater?

Seattle is very good for theatre. However, Palm Springs is not a theatre destination.

Seattle offers a number of shows and performances. There are a handful of theaters where you can enjoy traveling Broadway shows or smaller productions.

Palm Springs is not a theatre destination.

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

Picking the best cuisine and restaurants between Palm Springs and Seattle can be difficult as they are each excellent in their own way.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Palm Springs makes for a great culinary experience. 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.

Seattle has a huge number of terrific restaurants. The city has many diverse dining options that make it a popular foodie destination. The seafood is world-class with many restaurants offering fresh caught salmon and oysters. There are also many great Asian restaurants with Pho, sushi, and dim sum all being popular around town. Seattle is also famous as the birthplace of Starbucks coffee, and both chain and independent coffee shops are common. Finally, make sure you check out the donuts at Pike's Place Market.

Is Palm Springs or Seattle Better for Nightlife?

Palm Springs is renowned for its evening party scene. Also, Seattle is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for nightlife.

Palm Springs is a destination that you simply have to visit at least once for nightlife. 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.

Seattle has a lively atmosphere and nightlife is popular here. The city is known for its breweries and eclectic nightlife scene. There is a thriving theater scene as well as many bars and trendy restaurants. The best neighborhoods for nightlife include Capitol Hill, Belltown, and Downtown.

Is Palm Springs or Seattle Better for Music?

Seattle is notable for live music. However, Palm Springs is not a live music destination.

If you love music, you'll find something to enjoy in Seattle. The city has developed its own music culture around several genres including alternative rock and grunge.

Palm Springs is not a live music destination.

Is Palm Springs or Seattle Better for Resorts?

Palm Springs is renowned for its resorts. However, Seattle 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.

Seattle is not a resort destination.

Is Palm Springs or Seattle Better for Beaches?

Seattle is very good for its beaches. However, Palm Springs is not a beach destination.

Many people head to Seattle to enjoy the beach. The city is surrounded by water so there are a number of rocky and sandy beaches nearby. Some beaches are more popular with locals while others attract a large amount of tourists. Alki Beach Park, Discovery Park, and Golden Gardens Park are among the best.

Palm Springs is not a beach destination.

Is Palm Springs or Seattle Better for Hiking?

You'll find excellent hiking in both Palm Springs and Seattle.

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 Seattle. It's famously an outdoorsy city and the hiking will not disappoint. Within a half hour drive of town you'll find beautiful forests and stunning natural beauty. Head into the Cascades, to the coastal rainforests, or around Mount Rainier for all kinds of diverse landscapes. Seattle is well situated for you to experience hiking through the diverse Pacific Northwest landscapes.

Is the Shopping Better in Palm Springs or Seattle?

Palm Springs is notable for its shopping areas. Also, Seattle is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit 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.

Plenty of visitors enjoy shopping while in Seattle. Shopping in town has an eclectic mix of high end brands, local vendors, and vintage shops. There are farmers markets as well as the famous Pike Place Market, but also major malls with all of the standard department stores.

Is Palm Springs or Seattle Better for Families?

Palm Springs is notable for its family-friendly activities. Also, Seattle is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

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.

Seattle is a family-friendly city. This is an outdoor city with plenty of places where kids can run around and experience nature. There are several good museums as well as outdoor activities, parks, and a zoo. Make sure you check out the Burke Museum of Natural History and Culture, Volunteer Park, and Artists at Play Playground.

Is Palm Springs or Seattle Better for Couples?

Palm Springs is notable for couples. Also, Seattle is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for romance.

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.

Seattle is a nice destination for couples. The city has a laid back vibe, a nice downtown area, and plenty of outdoor activities. There are a diversity of restaurants to enjoy and a great nightlife scene that makes for a good couple's getaway.

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

Seattle is very good for backpackers. However, Palm Springs is a mediocre city for backpackers and budget travelers.

Seattle is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. Although it's not the most popular city for backpackers in America, the city's chill vibe, fun breweries, and lively setting make it a great spot for young backpackers.

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 Seattle Better for Students?

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

Seattle is very popular with students. It is a major IT center with a large university, so international students will have plenty of opportunities here. It's also a vibrant city with many outdoor recreational opportunities and a fun nightlife scene.

Palm Springs is not popular with students.

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

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

Seattle has a few public transit options. There is a light rail system, a monorail, a street car, and buses.

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 Palm Springs or Seattle a more walkable city?

Seattle is notable for its walkability. Also, Palm Springs is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its high level of walkability.

Seattle is very walkable. Many neighborhoods are very walkable, particularly in the downtown and major tourist areas.

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

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

Should I spend more time in Seattle or Palm Springs?

How long in Palm Springs or Seattle?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Palm Springs and Seattle. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Palm Springs than in Seattle. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Palm Springs, and 2-3 days is enough time in Seattle.

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

One day in Palm Springs or Seattle?

In Palm Springs, you'll find nightlife and food. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. One reason most visitors come is for the nightlife. This city offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

Each neighborhood in Seattle has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. 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 Seattle?

In Palm Springs, you'll find food and shopping. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One reason most visitors come is for the nightlife. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Palm Springs has to offer.

Seattle 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 Seattle?

Palm Springs is a great place to explore. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

You'll find shopping and museums around the bustling big city of Seattle. 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 Seattle?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Palm Springs. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Palm Springs. One reason most visitors come is for the nightlife. It's also a relaxing resort destination. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

Seattle 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 comparing the travel costs between Palm Springs and Seattle, 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 Palm Springs Expensive? and Is Seattle Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Palm Springs or Seattle?

Seattle has a larger population, and is about 10 times larger than the population of Palm Springs. When comparing the sizes of Palm Springs and Seattle, 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 Seattle?

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 Seattle in the Summer?

Both Seattle and Palm Springs are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The hiking and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Palm Springs this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Seattle for the beaches, the hiking, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Palm Springs is generally a little warmer than Seattle. Daily temperatures in Palm Springs average around 73°F (23°C), and Seattle fluctuates around 67°F (19°C).

In July, Palm Springs usually receives less rain than Seattle. Palm Springs gets 0 inches (1 mm) of rain, while Seattle receives 0.9 inches (22 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Palm Springs or Seattle in the Autumn?

Both Seattle and Palm Springs during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Palm Springs for the hiking trails and the shopping scene. Also, many visitors come to Seattle in the autumn for the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

Palm Springs is much warmer than Seattle in the autumn. The daily temperature in Palm Springs averages around 69°F (20°C) in October, and Seattle fluctuates around 54°F (12°C).

Palm Springs usually gets less rain in October than Seattle. Palm Springs gets 0.3 inches (7 mm) of rain, while Seattle receives 3.3 inches (83 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Palm Springs or Seattle in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Palm Springs and Seattle. Many visitors come to Palm Springs in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Seattle for the museums, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine during these months.

In the winter, Palm Springs is much warmer than Seattle. Typically, the winter temperatures in Palm Springs in January average around 57°F (14°C), and Seattle averages at about 42°F (5°C).

Seattle receives a lot of rain in the winter. In January, Palm Springs usually receives less rain than Seattle. Palm Springs gets 2 inches (52 mm) of rain, while Seattle receives 5.4 inches (136 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Palm Springs or Seattle in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Palm Springs as well as Seattle. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Seattle because of the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty.

In April, Palm Springs is generally much warmer than Seattle. Daily temperatures in Palm Springs average around 62°F (17°C), and Seattle fluctuates around 51°F (11°C).

Palm Springs usually gets less rain in April than Seattle. Palm Springs gets 0.9 inches (24 mm) of rain, while Seattle receives 2.5 inches (64 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Seattle and Palm Springs