A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Sarasota vs. Palm Springs for Nightlife, Resorts, Families, and Attractions

Should you visit Sarasota 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 Sarasota 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.

Sarasota

Sarasota is a underrated, relaxing, and entertaining city. It's also known for shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Palm Springs

Palm Springs is a ritzy, chic, and outdoorsy city. Visitors also love the food, hiking, and shopping.

Sarasota and Palm Springs: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Sarasota or Palm Springs?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Palm Springs. Although Sarasota and Palm Springs are popular destinations, Palm Springs has more sights and attractions for tourists. Palm Springs is very popular for its food, nightlife, resorts, hiking, and shopping, while Sarasota attracts visitors for its museums and beaches. Palm Springs is more touristy than Sarasota and is popular for its golfing, shopping, and mid-century modern architecture. It is also well known for the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway. Sarasota is famous for its sandy beaches and its fun activities.

How is Sarasota different from Palm Springs?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Sarasota 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 Sarasota specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. There are some decent museums in town such as the John and Mable Ringling Museum of Art, the Sarasota Classic Car Museum, and the Ca' da'Zan. Another highlight is the Mote Marine Laboratory and Aquarium.

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

Palm Springs is great for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Sarasota is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Palm Springs has a huge number of terrific restaurants. 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.

There are many up and coming restaurants in the Sarasota area. You'll find plenty of seafood around town, but there are also international restaurants and quirky local joints.

Is Sarasota or Palm Springs Better for Nightlife?

Palm Springs is renowned for nightlife and partying. Also, Sarasota is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its evening party scene.

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.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Sarasota. You'll find beach clubs, live entertainment such as drum circles, and plenty of bars around town. There are also evening cruises and late night parties.

Is Sarasota or Palm Springs Better for Resorts?

Palm Springs is renowned for its luxury resorts. Also, Sarasota is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its resorts.

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.

Sarasota has a few great resort options. You'll find beachfront resorts with pools and nice views.

Is Sarasota or Palm Springs Better for Beaches?

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

Many people head to Sarasota to enjoy the beach. There's no shortage of beaches in the area where you can spend a relaxing day playing the water and lounging in the sun. Siesta Key, Sarasota Gay Beach, Crescent Beach, and Coquina Beach are some of the favorites.

Palm Springs is not a beach destination.

Is Sarasota or Palm Springs Better for Hiking?

Palm Springs is great for hiking. However, Sarasota 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.

Sarasota is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Sarasota or Palm Springs?

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

Palm Springs is well-known for its shopping. 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.

Many visitors go to Sarasota to go shopping. Upscale shopping can be found at St. Armand's Circle. There's also Sarasota Square Mall and the Mall at University Town Center. If you want to pick up some local items you can check out Sarasota Farmers Market.

Is Sarasota or Palm Springs Better for Families?

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

Sarasota is one of the most popular family destinations. There's a huge number of hands on activities for kids and families in the area. Many families enjoy a visit to Mote Marine Laboratory and Aquarium. There are also botanical gardens, science museums, and outdoor adventure centers. Animal lovers will appreciate a visit to Big Cat Habitat and Gulf Coast Sanctuary. The city also has many performing arts and entertainment options for kids. And make sure you check out the museum dedicated to the Ringling Brothers Circus.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Palm Springs is very family-friendly. 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.

Is Sarasota or Palm Springs Better for Couples?

Palm Springs is great for its romantic activities. Also, Sarasota is not as popular, but is still a nice city for couples.

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.

Sarasota is a good city for couples to visit. A night out at St. Armands Circle is a fun way to spend the evening. There are also sunset cruises, nice restaurants, comedy clubs, and more.

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

Sarasota and Palm Springs both offer reasonable public transit to get you around.

Public transit is mostly limited in Sarasota. There's a bus system around town but most visitors depend on their own car for transportation.

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.

Is Sarasota or Palm Springs a more walkable city?

Palm Springs is a good destination for its high level of walkability. However, Sarasota is not a good destination 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.

Sarasota is generally not very walkable. While the downtown has some walkable parts, you'll need a car to access most things around town.

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

Should I spend more time in Palm Springs or Sarasota?

How long in Sarasota or Palm Springs?

It's fun to spend time in either Sarasota or Palm Springs. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Sarasota due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 2-5 days is a good amount of time for Sarasota, and 2-4 days is enough time in Palm Springs.

Families should spend more time in Sarasota than Palm Springs. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Sarasota, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Couples should spend more time in Palm Springs than Sarasota. 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.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Palm Springs than Sarasota 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.

One day in Sarasota or Palm Springs?

In Sarasota, many people enjoy the food and shopping that this relaxing 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.

The city of Palm Springs offers food and shopping. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

A weekend in Sarasota or Palm Springs?

Sarasota 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.

Palm Springs is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this city makes for a great vacation. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Palm Springs, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Sarasota or Palm Springs?

In Sarasota, many people enjoy the museums and nightlife that this relaxing destination offers. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Plenty of people spend five days in the area when traveling. So, five days is just the right amount of time to spend here.

Palm Springs is a popular choice for travelers. It's no surprise that nightlife is why people visit. Five days is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A week in Sarasota or Palm Springs?

Sarasota 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 great place to explore. It's no surprise that nightlife is why people visit. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This city offers something for everyone.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best G Adventures Tours to United States of America, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Las Vegas, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Anchorage, and The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Los Angeles.

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

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Sarasota Expensive? and Is Palm Springs Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Sarasota or Palm Springs?

Sarasota has a larger population, and is about 25% larger than the population of Palm Springs. When comparing the sizes of Sarasota 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 Sarasota 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 Sarasota or Palm Springs in the Summer?

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

In July, Sarasota is generally a little warmer than Palm Springs. Daily temperatures in Sarasota average around 82°F (28°C), and Palm Springs fluctuates around 73°F (23°C).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Sarasota. Sarasota usually gets more rain in July than Palm Springs. Sarasota gets 8.4 inches (214 mm) of rain, while Palm Springs receives 0 inches (1 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Sarasota or Palm Springs in the Autumn?

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

Sarasota is a little warmer than Palm Springs in the autumn. The daily temperature in Sarasota averages around 76°F (24°C) in October, and Palm Springs fluctuates around 69°F (20°C).

In October, Sarasota usually receives more rain than Palm Springs. Sarasota gets 2.6 inches (65 mm) of rain, while Palm Springs receives 0.3 inches (7 mm) of rain each month for the autumn. The hurricane season in Sarasota is June to November.

Should I visit Sarasota or Palm Springs in the Winter?

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

In the winter, Sarasota is around the same temperature as Palm Springs. Typically, the winter temperatures in Sarasota in January average around 59°F (15°C), and Palm Springs averages at about 57°F (14°C).

Sarasota usually gets more rain in January than Palm Springs. Sarasota gets 2.3 inches (59 mm) of rain, while Palm Springs receives 2 inches (52 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Sarasota or Palm Springs in the Spring?

Both Palm Springs and Sarasota are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The spring months attract visitors to Sarasota because of the beaches.

In April, Sarasota is generally a little warmer than Palm Springs. Daily temperatures in Sarasota average around 73°F (23°C), and Palm Springs fluctuates around 62°F (17°C).

In April, Sarasota usually receives more rain than Palm Springs. Sarasota gets 2.1 inches (53 mm) of rain, while Palm Springs receives 0.9 inches (24 mm) of rain each month for the spring. June to November is the hurricane season in Sarasota.

Typical Weather for Palm Springs and Sarasota