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

Should you visit Providence or Palm Springs?

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

Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for Providence and Palm Springs. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.

Providence

Providence is a friendly, fascinating, and active city. It's also known for nightlife, food, and shopping.

Palm Springs

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

Providence and Palm Springs: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for students
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less popular with backpackers
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Nice resorts
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with backpackers


Is there more to do in Providence or Palm Springs?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Palm Springs than Providence, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Palm Springs is more touristy than Providence and is popular for its golfing, shopping, and mid-century modern architecture. Also, Palm Springs is famous for the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway. Providence is well known for its outdoor parks, historic atmosphere, and college town vibe.

How is Providence different from Palm Springs?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Providence
Palm Springs

You'll find a number of notable museums and attractions in both Palm Springs and Providence.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Providence. There are several historical museums around town as well as art museums, zoos, a planetarium and natural history museum, and even a children's museum.

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.


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

Providence
Palm Springs

Dining out at restaurants in both Providence and Palm Springs can be an enjoyable experience.

Providence has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. The food scene around town has grown and diversified in recent years. You'll find a mix of international and local options and for such a small city, it really has a lot to offer.

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.

Is Providence or Palm Springs Better for Nightlife?

Providence
Palm Springs

Palm Springs is an unbeatable place for its evening party scene. Also, Providence is not as popular, but is still a nice city for nightlife.

The nightlife in Palm Springs is well established with world renowned clubs and venues. 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.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Providence. Comedy clubs, bars, and clubs keep the energy high during the evening hours. It's not hard to find something to do, particularly on weekend nights.

Is Providence or Palm Springs Better for Resorts?

Providence
Palm Springs

Palm Springs is an unbeatable place for its luxury resorts. However, Providence 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.

Providence is not a resort destination.


Is Providence or Palm Springs Better for Hiking?

Providence
Palm Springs

Palm Springs is a great city for hiking. However, Providence is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors go to Palm Springs for the hiking trails. 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.

Providence is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Providence or Palm Springs?

Providence
Palm Springs

Palm Springs is a great city for its shopping areas. Also, Providence is not as popular, but is still a nice city 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.

Providence is a great destination for shopping. Malls, shopping centers, and boutiques all offer a range of shopping experiences around town.

Is Providence or Palm Springs Better for Families?

Providence
Palm Springs

Palm Springs is a great city for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Providence is not as popular, but is still a nice city 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.

Providence is a family-friendly place to visit. There are opportunities for kids to interact with animals at the Roger Williams Park Zoo, as well as plenty of places for kids to run around like Rocky Point Park or Goddard Memorial State Park. There's also the Providence Children's Museum, go carting, and entertainment centers.


Is Providence or Palm Springs Better for Couples?

Providence
Palm Springs

Palm Springs is a great city for couples. Also, Providence is not as popular, but is still a nice city for romance.

Palm Springs is a great city if you're traveling as 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.

Providence is a nice destination for couples. You can see a show at the Providence Performing Arts Center or visit some of the city's historic buildings and museums. There are also parks and coastal walks as well as many great restaurants.

Is Providence or Palm Springs Better for Students?

Providence
Palm Springs

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

Providence is very popular with students. There's a college town vibe to this small city because it's home to Brown University, which is a member of the Ivy League.

Palm Springs is not popular with students.

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

Providence
Palm Springs

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

Providence has a few public transit options. There are RIPTA buses that travel around town.

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 Providence or Palm Springs a more walkable city?

Providence
Palm Springs

Providence 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.

Providence is very walkable. It's a walkable city and it's relatively easy to explore on foot.

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 Providence Worth Visiting? and Is Palm Springs Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Palm Springs or Providence?

How long in Providence or Palm Springs?

It's fun to spend time in either Providence or Palm Springs. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Palm Springs due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Providence, and 2-4 days is enough time in Palm Springs.

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


  • How many days in Providence or Palm Springs? Ideal Length of Stay
    Providence 2-3 
    Palm Springs 2-4

One day in Providence or Palm Springs?

In Providence, many people enjoy the food and shopping that this fascinating city offers. 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.

With museums and nightlife around the outdoorsy city of Palm Springs, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. One of the main draws to the area is the nightlife. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Providence or Palm Springs?

Providence is a fun place to experience. 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.

With nightlife and food around the destination of Palm Springs, there's plenty to do. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. It offers something for everyone. Many people spend a weekend here. One of the main draws to the area is the nightlife. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this city.


Five days in Providence or Palm Springs?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the active destination of Providence. 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.

Palm Springs, a popular city, is full of activities for travelers. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

A week in Providence or Palm Springs?

Providence is a popular place to visit. 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.

Palm Springs is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. One of the main draws to the area is the nightlife. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Camping Tours in United States of America, The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in United States of America, The Best Polar Tours & Cruises in United States of America, and The Best Walking Tours in United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Palm Springs or Providence?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Providence is $210, while the average daily cost in Palm Springs is $206. 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 Providence and Palm Springs in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Providence $114
    Palm Springs $120
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Providence $228
    Palm Springs $240
Compare Hotels in Providence and Palm Springs

Looking for a hotel in Providence or Palm Springs? 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 Providence


Hotels in Palm Springs


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: Providence Hotel Prices and Palm Springs Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Providence $46
    Palm Springs $52

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Providence

Also for Providence, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Private Departure Transfer to Providence TF Green Airport PVD: $36
  • Providence to Rhode Island Airport PVD Departure Transfer : $46
  • T. F. Green State Airport (PVD) to Providence – Arrival Private Transfer : $46
  • Private Transfer from Providence Airport (PVD) to Newport Port : $49
  • Private Transfer from Providence City Hotels to Newport Port: $61
  • T. F. Green State Airport (PVD) to Providence - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $92
  • Providence to Boston’s Logan International Airport - Departure Private Transfer: $170
  • New York’s JFK International Airport to Providence – Departure Private Transfer: $272

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

Is it cheaper to fly into Providence or Palm Springs?

Prices for flights to both Palm Springs and Providence 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
    Providence $48
    Palm Springs $53

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Providence

For Providence, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Downcity Providence Food Tour: $89

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Providence $26
    Palm Springs $29

Tours and Activities in Providence

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Providence.

  • Providence Scavenger Hunt: Providence Adventure: $12
  • Self-Driving Audio Tour: $13
  • Providence, RI: Murder Mystery Detective Experience: $15
  • Downtown Providence Self-Driving Audio Tour: $15
  • Murder Mystery Detective Experience Providence, RI: $15
  • Ghosts, Phantoms and Poltergeists Walking Tour: $26
  • Providence Ghosts Phantoms and Poltergeists Tour: $30
  • Parasols and Pocket Watches: A History Tour: $30
  • Haunted History Walking Tour of Providence: $30
  • Providence Mob Walking Tour: $33
  • The Creative Capital: An Art and Architecture Tour of Providence: $35
  • Power and Politics: The Struggle for the Soul of Providence Tour: $35

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

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Providence $13
    Palm Springs $13

Sample the Local Flavors in Providence

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Providence:

  • Vineyard Voyages - Floating Wine Tasting: $65


When comparing the travel costs between Providence and Palm Springs, we can see that Providence 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 Providence Expensive? and Is Palm Springs Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Providence or Palm Springs?

Providence has a larger population, and is about 4 times larger than the population of Palm Springs. When comparing the sizes of Providence and Palm Springs, 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 Providence or Palm Springs?

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 Providence or Palm Springs in the Summer?

Both Palm Springs and Providence during the summer are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Providence for the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, many visitors come to Palm Springs in the summer for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Providence is around the same temperature as Palm Springs. Typically, the summer temperatures in Providence in July average around 73°F (23°C), and Palm Springs averages at about 73°F (23°C).

Providence usually gets more rain in July than Palm Springs. Providence gets 2.8 inches (72 mm) of rain, while Palm Springs receives 0 inches (1 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Providence 73°F (23°C) 
    Palm Springs 73°F (23°C)

Should I visit Providence or Palm Springs in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Providence and Palm Springs. Many visitors come to Providence in the autumn for the shopping scene. Furthermore, most visitors come to Palm Springs for the hiking trails and the shopping scene during these months.

In October, Providence is generally much colder than Palm Springs. Daily temperatures in Providence average around 53°F (12°C), and Palm Springs fluctuates around 69°F (20°C).

In October, Providence usually receives more rain than Palm Springs. Providence gets 3.3 inches (83 mm) of rain, while Palm Springs receives 0.3 inches (7 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Providence 53°F (12°C) 
    Palm Springs 69°F (20°C)

Should I visit Providence or Palm Springs in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Providence as well as Palm Springs. Most visitors come to Providence for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Additionally, the winter months attract visitors to Palm Springs because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Providence can be very cold during winter. Providence is much colder than Palm Springs in the winter. The daily temperature in Providence averages around 28°F (-2°C) in January, and Palm Springs fluctuates around 57°F (14°C).

Providence usually gets more rain in January than Palm Springs. Providence gets 3.5 inches (89 mm) of rain, while Palm Springs receives 2 inches (52 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Providence 28°F (-2°C) 
    Palm Springs 57°F (14°C)

Should I visit Providence or Palm Springs in the Spring?

Both Palm Springs and Providence are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities.

In the spring, Providence is much colder than Palm Springs. Typically, the spring temperatures in Providence in April average around 48°F (9°C), and Palm Springs averages at about 62°F (17°C).

In April, Providence usually receives more rain than Palm Springs. Providence gets 3.7 inches (94 mm) of rain, while Palm Springs receives 0.9 inches (24 mm) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Providence 48°F (9°C) 
    Palm Springs 62°F (17°C)

Typical Weather for Palm Springs and Providence

Providence Palm Springs
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 28°F (-2°C) 3.5 inches (89 mm) 57°F (14°C) 2 inches (52 mm)
Feb 30°F (-1°C) 3.5 inches (88 mm) 58°F (15°C) 2.3 inches (58 mm)
Mar 38°F (3°C) 4 inches (101 mm) 59°F (15°C) 2.2 inches (57 mm)
Apr 48°F (9°C) 3.7 inches (94 mm) 62°F (17°C) 0.9 inches (24 mm)
May 58°F (15°C) 3.5 inches (89 mm) 65°F (18°C) 0.2 inches (6 mm)
Jun 67°F (20°C) 2.6 inches (67 mm) 69°F (20°C) 0.1 inches (2 mm)
Jul 73°F (23°C) 2.8 inches (72 mm) 73°F (23°C) 0 inches (1 mm)
Aug 72°F (22°C) 3.9 inches (99 mm) 74°F (24°C) 0.2 inches (4 mm)
Sep 64°F (18°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm) 73°F (23°C) 0.4 inches (9 mm)
Oct 53°F (12°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm) 69°F (20°C) 0.3 inches (7 mm)
Nov 44°F (7°C) 4.5 inches (115 mm) 62°F (17°C) 1.5 inches (39 mm)
Dec 33°F (0°C) 4.1 inches (105 mm) 57°F (14°C) 1.7 inches (42 mm)