A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Wisconsin Dells vs. Palm Springs for Nightlife, Resorts, Families, and Food

Should you visit Wisconsin Dells or Palm Springs?

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

Should I visit Wisconsin Dells or Palm Springs? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

Wisconsin Dells

Wisconsin Dells is a fun-filled, lighthearted, and high energy city. It's also known for nightlife, food, and hiking.

Palm Springs

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

Wisconsin Dells and Palm Springs: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Wisconsin Dells or Palm Springs?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Palm Springs. Although Wisconsin Dells and Palm Springs are popular destinations, Palm Springs has more sights and attractions for tourists. Wisconsin Dells is famous for its many waterparks and unapologetically playful atmosphere. Palm Springs is famous for its golfing, shopping, and mid-century modern architecture. It is also well known for the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway.

How is Wisconsin Dells different from Palm Springs?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Palm Springs is a popular place for its museums and landmarks. However, Wisconsin Dells is a city with minimal options for its historical sights.

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.

While most people don't head to Wisconsin Dells specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. There are a couple of art galleries in the area, but most visitors spend the majority of their time at the theme parks and waterparks.

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

Palm Springs is a great destination for its restaurant scene. Also, Wisconsin Dells is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

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.

Wisconsin Dells is becoming an appealing option for foodies. Pizza, pasta, burgers, and steak in a family-friendly atmosphere are the most common options in the area. There are also a few fine dining restaurants as well as pubs and brunch places to choose from.

Is Wisconsin Dells or Palm Springs Better for Nightlife?

Palm Springs is a world-class destination for nightlife and partying. Also, Wisconsin Dells is still popular, but not quite as popular for its evening party scene.

People head to Palm Springs just to party. 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 in Wisconsin Dells has something for everybody. In the evening the fun-filled atmosphere takes on a different vibe. There are bars, clubs, casinos, and shows that keep things lively throughout the evening.

Is Wisconsin Dells or Palm Springs Better for Resorts?

Palm Springs is a world-class destination for its resorts. Also, Wisconsin Dells is still popular, but not quite as popular 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.

Wisconsin Dells has a few great resort options. Many of the waterparks in the area have affiliated resorts that offer family-friendly entertainment.

Is Wisconsin Dells or Palm Springs Better for Hiking?

Palm Springs is a great destination for its hiking experiences. Also, Wisconsin Dells is still popular, but not quite as popular for hiking.

You'll find a nice variety of hiking trails around 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.

Many people include a hike when visiting Wisconsin Dells. Visitors often forget that this was originally a destination for its natural beauty. There are still many hiking trails in the area with some of the favorites found at Mirror Lake State Park, Rocky Arbor State Park, and Chimney Rock Private Park.

Is the Shopping Better in Wisconsin Dells or Palm Springs?

Palm Springs is a great destination for its shopping opportunities. However, Wisconsin Dells is a city with minimal options 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.

Wisconsin Dells has some good spots for those that want to go shopping. You'll find shopping malls and shopping centers, as well as gift shops in the area.

Is Wisconsin Dells or Palm Springs Better for Families?

Wisconsin Dells 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.

Wisconsin Dells is one of the most popular family destinations. While it used to be known for its impressive sandstone formations along the Wisconsin River, today it has a more touristy atmosphere with theme parks and amusement parks. It's also become known as the "Water Park Capital of the World", and it won't disappoint. There are both indoor and outdoor waterparks as well as train rides, boat rides, and plenty of family-friendly restaurants.

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 Wisconsin Dells or Palm Springs Better for Couples?

Palm Springs is a great destination for its romantic activities. Also, Wisconsin Dells is still popular, but not quite as popular for couples.

Couples visit Palm Springs frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. 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.

Wisconsin Dells is a good city for couples to visit. There are a number of resorts with spas and romantic atmospheres. There are also wineries and plenty of entertainment options in the area.

Is Wisconsin Dells or Palm Springs 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, Wisconsin Dells is a city with minimal options 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 Wisconsin Dells. There's no real public transportation in the area.

Is Wisconsin Dells or Palm Springs a more walkable city?

Palm Springs is a popular place for its high level of walkability. However, Wisconsin Dells is a city with minimal options 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.

Wisconsin Dells is generally not a very walkable city. While the downtown area is walkable, you really need a car to access everything that the area has to offer.

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

Should I spend more time in Palm Springs or Wisconsin Dells?

How long in Wisconsin Dells or Palm Springs?

It's fun to spend time in either Wisconsin Dells or Palm Springs. In our opinion, Palm Springs has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Palm Springs than Wisconsin Dells. However, 2-4 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

Couples should spend more time in Palm Springs than Wisconsin Dells. 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 Wisconsin Dells 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 Wisconsin Dells or Palm Springs?

In Wisconsin Dells, many people enjoy the food and nightlife that this lighthearted 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 chic destination of Palm Springs offers nightlife and food. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. It's no surprise that nightlife is why people visit. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

A weekend in Wisconsin Dells or Palm Springs?

Wisconsin Dells 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.

The city of Palm Springs offers food and shopping. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. A weekend here is typical. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything. A weekend is often enough time to do most activities.

Five days in Wisconsin Dells or Palm Springs?

You'll find food and nightlife around the high energy destination of Wisconsin Dells. 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 is a great place to explore. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. It's no surprise that nightlife is why people visit. This city offers something for everyone. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

A week in Wisconsin Dells or Palm Springs?

Wisconsin Dells 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.

Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Palm Springs. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 10-Day Tours in United States of America, The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in United States of America, The Best 2-Week Tours in United States of America, and The Best 3-Week Tours in United States of America.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Wisconsin Dells and Palm Springs, we can see that Palm Springs is more expensive. And not only is Wisconsin Dells much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Wisconsin Dells would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Wisconsin Dells 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 Wisconsin Dells.

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

Which is Bigger, Wisconsin Dells or Palm Springs?

Palm Springs has a larger population, and is about 20 times larger than the population of Wisconsin Dells. When comparing the sizes of Wisconsin Dells 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 Wisconsin Dells or Palm Springs?

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 Wisconsin Dells or Palm Springs in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Wisconsin Dells and Palm Springs. The hiking and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Wisconsin Dells this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Palm Springs for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Wisconsin Dells is generally around the same temperature as Palm Springs. Daily temperatures in Wisconsin Dells average around 74°F (24°C), and Palm Springs fluctuates around 73°F (23°C).

In July, Wisconsin Dells usually receives more rain than Palm Springs. Wisconsin Dells gets 3 inches (76 mm) of rain, while Palm Springs receives 0 inches (1 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Wisconsin Dells or Palm Springs in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Wisconsin Dells as well as Palm Springs. Many travelers come to Wisconsin Dells for the hiking trails and the shopping scene. Additionally, many visitors come to Palm Springs in the autumn for the hiking trails and the shopping scene.

Wisconsin Dells is much colder than Palm Springs in the autumn. The daily temperature in Wisconsin Dells averages around 52°F (11°C) in October, and Palm Springs fluctuates around 69°F (20°C).

Wisconsin Dells usually gets more rain in October than Palm Springs. Wisconsin Dells gets 1.9 inches (48 mm) of rain, while Palm Springs receives 0.3 inches (7 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Wisconsin Dells or Palm Springs in the Winter?

Both Palm Springs and Wisconsin Dells are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Wisconsin Dells in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Palm Springs for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Wisconsin Dells can get quite cold in the winter. In the winter, Wisconsin Dells is much colder than Palm Springs. Typically, the winter temperatures in Wisconsin Dells in January average around 19°F (-7°C), and Palm Springs averages at about 57°F (14°C).

In January, Wisconsin Dells usually receives less rain than Palm Springs. Wisconsin Dells gets 1 inches (25 mm) of rain, while Palm Springs receives 2 inches (52 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Wisconsin Dells or Palm Springs in the Spring?

Both Palm Springs and Wisconsin Dells during the spring are popular places to visit.

In April, Wisconsin Dells is generally much colder than Palm Springs. Daily temperatures in Wisconsin Dells average around 49°F (10°C), and Palm Springs fluctuates around 62°F (17°C).

Wisconsin Dells usually gets more rain in April than Palm Springs. Wisconsin Dells gets 2.6 inches (65 mm) of rain, while Palm Springs receives 0.9 inches (24 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Palm Springs and Wisconsin Dells