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

Should you visit Baltimore or Palm Springs?

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 Baltimore and Palm Springs can help you decide which place is right for you.

Baltimore

Baltimore is a vibrant, diverse, and colorful city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. It's also known for nightlife, food, and shopping. See Baltimore travel costs.

Palm Springs

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

Baltimore and Palm Springs: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good public transit
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
  • Public transit not as usable


Is there more to do in Baltimore or Palm Springs?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Baltimore. Although Baltimore and Palm Springs are popular destinations, Baltimore has more sights and attractions for tourists. Baltimore is very popular for its museums and attractions and big city activities, while Palm Springs attracts visitors for its nightlife, resorts, and hiking. Palm Springs is more touristy than Baltimore and is known for its golfing, shopping, and mid-century modern architecture. Baltimore is famous for the Inner Harbor and its many water based activities. It is also well known for the National Aquarium.

How is Baltimore different from Palm Springs?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Baltimore
Palm Springs

Baltimore 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 Baltimore specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. The city is known for its historic ships that are found in the Inner Harbor. There are many other museums around town as well like the American Visionary Art Museum, the Reginald F. Lewis Museum, and the Baltimore Museum of Art. Many days can be filled exploring the many art, history, or science museums in the area.

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 Baltimore or Palm Springs? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Baltimore
Palm Springs

Foodies will find both Baltimore and Palm Springs both to be very good destinations.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Baltimore. The city's location near the Chesapeake Bay means that there are many great local seafood dishes. Blue crab is a regional favorite and is often served as crab soup, crab dip, or crab cakes. You'll find many famous restaurants in the Inner Harbor, but if you want something more local you should check out Little Italy or Fells Point.

Palm Springs has a number of nationally recognized food spots and 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.

Is Baltimore or Palm Springs Better for Nightlife?

Baltimore
Palm Springs

Palm Springs is a world-class destination for nightlife and partying. Also, Baltimore 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.

Many people head to Baltimore for the nightlife scene. It's a vibrant city with many night time activities like breweries, night clubs, and cocktail bars. There's even outside the box activities like ballroom dancing or arcade bars.

Is Baltimore or Palm Springs Better for Resorts?

Baltimore
Palm Springs

Palm Springs is a world-class destination for its resorts. However, Baltimore is not a resort destination.

If you're looking for a fantastic resort destination, Palm Springs is a perfect choice. Resorts range from luxurious to more laid back. Most have impressive pools and many have their own spas, restaurants, and entertainment options.

Baltimore is not a resort destination.


Is Baltimore or Palm Springs Better for Hiking?

Baltimore
Palm Springs

Palm Springs is well known for its hiking experiences. However, Baltimore is not a hiking destination.

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.

Baltimore is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Baltimore or Palm Springs?

Baltimore
Palm Springs

Shopping is a popular activity in both Palm Springs and Baltimore.

Baltimore is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. Shopping is a great way to experience the different neighborhoods around town. For high end shopping head to Harbor East. For a bit more history check out Federal Hill. Hampden is known for its quirky style and Fell's Point is particularly popular with tourists.

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.

Is Baltimore or Palm Springs Better for Families?

Baltimore
Palm Springs

You'll find very good kid-friendly activities in either Baltimore or Palm Springs.

Baltimore is a very kid-friendly city. The National Aquarium is a highlight for many families. It's an impressive aquarium with dolphins, sharks, puffins, and fish. Also in town is the Port Discovery Children’s Museum which has many interactive exhibits. The Maryland Science Center, the Maryland Zoo, and the many historic ships in the harbor also offer educational opportunities for kids. For something a bit different, check out Urban Pirates in the Inner Harbor.

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.


Is Baltimore or Palm Springs Better for Couples?

Baltimore
Palm Springs

Palm Springs is well known for its romantic activities. Also, Baltimore 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.

Baltimore is a good city for couples to visit. Most visitors spend the majority of their time around the Inner Harbor. There are restaurants and romantic hotels that are perfect for couples. The city also has many entertainment options and other activities that make for a great date night.

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

Baltimore
Palm Springs

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

Baltimore is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. There are a couple of hostels around town, but most international travelers overlook this city.

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

Baltimore
Palm Springs

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

Visitors to Baltimore can move around easily with public transportation. There are water taxis and a free downtown bus service that's called the Charm City Circulator. MTA also operates a metro and a light rail system.

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 Baltimore or Palm Springs a more walkable city?

Baltimore
Palm Springs

Baltimore 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.

Baltimore is very walkable. The downtown area is the most walkable part of the city. In particular, the Inner Harbor and Fells Point are particularly walkable.

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

Should I spend more time in Palm Springs or Baltimore?

How long in Baltimore or Palm Springs?

It's fun to spend time in either Baltimore 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 Baltimore, and 2-4 days is enough time in Palm Springs.

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

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


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

One day in Baltimore or Palm Springs?

In Baltimore, many people enjoy the food and shopping that this vibrant 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.

You'll find shopping and museums around the city of Palm Springs. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A weekend in Baltimore or Palm Springs?

Baltimore 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.

You'll find museums and nightlife around the chic destination of Palm Springs. Hikers are also drawn to this area. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.


Five days in Baltimore or Palm Springs?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the colorful destination of Baltimore. 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.

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the ritzy city of Palm Springs. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. It's also a relaxing resort destination. Most people head to the area for the nightlife. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in Baltimore or Palm Springs?

Baltimore 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 choice for travelers. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. One week 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. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Bicycle Tours in United States of America, Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in United States of America, The Best Coach Bus Tours in United States of America, and The Best Adventure Tours to United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Palm Springs or Baltimore?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations. These travel costs come from the actual spending of real travelers.

  • Baltimore Prices
    USA Prices
    Palm Springs Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Baltimore $217
    Palm Springs $244

The average daily cost (per person) in Baltimore is $217, while the average daily cost in Palm Springs is $244. 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 Baltimore and Palm Springs in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Baltimore $93
    Palm Springs $120
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Baltimore $186
    Palm Springs $240
Compare Hotels in Baltimore and Palm Springs

Looking for a hotel in Baltimore 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 Baltimore


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: Baltimore Hotel Prices and Palm Springs Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Baltimore $21
    Palm Springs $52

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Baltimore

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Baltimore:

  • Private Arrival Transfer from Baltimore Washington Airport BWI: $60
  • Oakland Airport (OAK) to San Francisco hotel/address - Private Arrival Transfer: $77
  • Departure Private Transfer Baltimore to Baltimore Airport BWI: $114
  • Oakland to San Francisco Airport (SFO)-Departure Private Transfer: $135
  • Oakland Airport (OAK) to Oakland hotel or address - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $154
  • Airport Transfer Downtown Baltimore to BWI Airport: $160
  • Baltimore City to Washington City - Private Transfer: $172
  • Private Transfer from BWI Airport ⇄ Washington DC : $199
  • Private transfer To or Form Bethesda and Dulles International Airport: $240
  • Airport Transfer Baltimore/Washington International Airport BWI to Baltimore, MD: $245
  • Airport transfer to or from Silver Spring, MD and Dulles Airport: $275
  • Private Airport Transfer from Baltimore to DCA or vice versa: $300

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Palm Springs

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Palm Springs:

  • Desert Hot Springs to Palm Springs Airport PSP Departure Transfer: $202
  • Private Airport Transfer in Palm Springs: $215

Is it cheaper to fly into Baltimore or Palm Springs?

Prices for flights to both Palm Springs and Baltimore 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
    Baltimore $79
    Palm Springs $92
Typical Food Prices in Baltimore

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for food and meal costs in Baltimore:


  • Seafood Dinner (for 2) in Fells Point
    $76

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Baltimore

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Baltimore.

  • Pasta Making Cooking Class at a Local Brewery in Baltimore: $75
  • Pasta Making Cooking Classes at a Local Brewery: $75
  • Fells Point Food Tour in Baltimore: $78
  • City Cruises Signature Dinner Cruise: $125

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Baltimore $18
    Palm Springs $29

Tours and Activities in Baltimore

Here are a few actual costs in Baltimore for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • Baltimore Downtown Poe Ruth and More GPS Self Guided Walking Tour: $9.75
  • Antietam National Battlefield Self-Guided Driving Tour: $15
  • Baltimore Walking & Driving Self-Guided Audio Tour: $15
  • NEON Starry Night Sip and Paint Experience : $20
  • Baltimore's Cruise ship Tour-shuttle service: $25
  • City Cruises Baltimore Harbor Tour: $30
  • The Original Fells Point Ghost Walk by Baltimore Ghost Tours: $30
  • Baltimore Bewitched: Raven's Revenge, Bones & Ballads Ghost Tour: $32
  • Glow in the Dark Splatter Paint Experience : $40
  • Assateague Island Cruise Departs from Ocean Pines: $40
  • North Beach Scenic - Guided Walking Tour: $41
  • North Beach Historic - Guided Walking Tour: $41

Tours and Activities in Palm Springs

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Palm Springs are as follows:

  • Joshua Tree's Hidden Valley Self-Guided Walking Tour: $8.49
  • Journey into Joshua Tree Audio Tour and Locals Guide: $15
  • Death Valley National Park Self-Guided Audio Driving Tour: $15
  • Joshua Tree National Park Self-Guided Driving Audio Tour: $15
  • Palm Springs Self-Guided Driving Audio Tour: $17
  • Self-Guided Driving Audio Tour in Joshua Tree National Park: $20
  • Palm Springs and Joshua Tree Self-Guided Driving Audio Tours: $22
  • Self-Driving Windmill Tour: $30
  • Palm Springs Aerial Tramway Admission Ticket: $33
  • Aerial Tramway Round-Trip Ticket: $35
  • 10+ Self-Guided Driving Tours from Las Vegas: $45
  • All-In-One California Self-Guided Driving & Walking Bundle Tour: $50

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Baltimore $17
    Palm Springs $13

Sample the Local Flavors in Baltimore

Also in Baltimore, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • Original Fells Point Haunted Pub Tour by Baltimore Ghost Tours: $33
  • Baltimore Boos & Booze Haunted Pub Crawl: $36

Sample the Local Flavors in Palm Springs

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Palm Springs:

  • Palm Springs Bar Crawl: $15


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


Which is Bigger, Baltimore or Palm Springs?

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

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Baltimore and Palm Springs. The summer months attract visitors to Baltimore because of the city activities and the family-friendly experiences. Also, the hiking and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Palm Springs this time of year.

In July, Baltimore is generally around the same temperature as Palm Springs. Daily temperatures in Baltimore average around 78°F (25°C), and Palm Springs fluctuates around 73°F (23°C).

Baltimore gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In July, Baltimore usually receives more rain than Palm Springs. Baltimore gets 4.1 inches (103 mm) of rain, while Palm Springs receives 0 inches (1 mm) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Baltimore 78°F (25°C) 
    Palm Springs 73°F (23°C)

Should I visit Baltimore or Palm Springs in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Baltimore as well as Palm Springs. The city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene are the main draw to Baltimore this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Palm Springs for the hiking trails and the shopping scene.

Baltimore is cooler than Palm Springs in the autumn. The daily temperature in Baltimore averages around 57°F (14°C) in October, and Palm Springs fluctuates around 69°F (20°C).

Baltimore usually gets more rain in October than Palm Springs. Baltimore gets 2.8 inches (71 mm) of rain, while Palm Springs receives 0.3 inches (7 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Baltimore 57°F (14°C) 
    Palm Springs 69°F (20°C)

Should I visit Baltimore or Palm Springs in the Winter?

Both Palm Springs and Baltimore are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Baltimore for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Palm Springs in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Baltimore. In the winter, Baltimore is much colder than Palm Springs. Typically, the winter temperatures in Baltimore in January average around 32°F (0°C), and Palm Springs averages at about 57°F (14°C).

In January, Baltimore usually receives more rain than Palm Springs. Baltimore gets 2.9 inches (74 mm) of rain, while Palm Springs receives 2 inches (52 mm) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Baltimore 32°F (0°C) 
    Palm Springs 57°F (14°C)

Should I visit Baltimore or Palm Springs in the Spring?

Both Palm Springs and Baltimore during the spring are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Baltimore in the spring for the activities around the city.

In April, Baltimore is generally cooler than Palm Springs. Daily temperatures in Baltimore average around 54°F (12°C), and Palm Springs fluctuates around 62°F (17°C).

Baltimore usually gets more rain in April than Palm Springs. Baltimore gets 3.1 inches (78 mm) of rain, while Palm Springs receives 0.9 inches (24 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Baltimore 54°F (12°C) 
    Palm Springs 62°F (17°C)

Typical Weather for Palm Springs and Baltimore

Baltimore Palm Springs
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 32°F (0°C) 2.9 inches (74 mm) 57°F (14°C) 2 inches (52 mm)
Feb 35°F (2°C) 2.8 inches (71 mm) 58°F (15°C) 2.3 inches (58 mm)
Mar 45°F (7°C) 3.7 inches (94 mm) 59°F (15°C) 2.2 inches (57 mm)
Apr 54°F (12°C) 3.1 inches (78 mm) 62°F (17°C) 0.9 inches (24 mm)
May 64°F (18°C) 3.6 inches (92 mm) 65°F (18°C) 0.2 inches (6 mm)
Jun 73°F (23°C) 3.8 inches (96 mm) 69°F (20°C) 0.1 inches (2 mm)
Jul 78°F (25°C) 4.1 inches (103 mm) 73°F (23°C) 0 inches (1 mm)
Aug 76°F (25°C) 4.2 inches (107 mm) 74°F (24°C) 0.2 inches (4 mm)
Sep 69°F (21°C) 3.1 inches (79 mm) 73°F (23°C) 0.4 inches (9 mm)
Oct 57°F (14°C) 2.8 inches (71 mm) 69°F (20°C) 0.3 inches (7 mm)
Nov 47°F (9°C) 3.1 inches (80 mm) 62°F (17°C) 1.5 inches (39 mm)
Dec 37°F (3°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm) 57°F (14°C) 1.7 inches (42 mm)