A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Cape Cod vs. Palm Springs for Resorts, Food, Hiking, and Families

Should you visit Cape Cod 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 Cape Cod 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.

Cape Cod

Cape Cod is a maritime, beautiful, and peaceful beach destination. This is a great small town that is just waiting to be explored. Cape Cod is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. This is an attractive and quaint destination worth visiting as well. It's also known for food, beaches, and hiking. See Cape Cod travel costs.

Palm Springs

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

Cape Cod and Palm Springs: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Cape Cod or Palm Springs?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Palm Springs than Cape Cod, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Palm Springs is better known for its museums and attractions, nightlife, resorts, and hiking, while Cape Cod is more popular for its beaches, small town charm, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere. Palm Springs is more touristy than Cape Cod and is popular for its golfing, shopping, and mid-century modern architecture. Also, Palm Springs is famous for the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway. Cape Cod is well known for its long scenic coastline, charming compact towns, and magnificent migrating whales.

How is Cape Cod different from Palm Springs?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Palm Springs is a good destination for its historical sights. However, Cape Cod does not have museums and landmarks.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Palm Springs. 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.

Cape Cod does not have museums and landmarks.

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

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

Cape Cod has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. The region is famous for its fresh seafood and popular dishes include the fried clams and broiled lobster. There are also many diners and brunch cafes where you can enjoy pancakes or eggs benedict.

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 Cape Cod or Palm Springs Better for Nightlife?

Palm Springs is an unbeatable place for its evening party scene. However, Cape Cod is not a good destination 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.

People don't go to Cape Cod for the nightlife. This area isn't really known for its nightlife, but the downtown of Hyannis has some activity at night.

Is Cape Cod or Palm Springs Better for Resorts?

Palm Springs is an unbeatable place for its luxury resorts. Also, Cape Cod is not as popular, but is still a nice beach destination 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.

Cape Cod has a handful of resorts to choose from. Wequassett Resort and Golf Club, White Elephant Resorts, and Chatham Bars Inn are favorite resorts in the Cape Cod area.

Is Cape Cod or Palm Springs Better for Beaches?

Cape Cod is notable for its beaches. However, Palm Springs is not a beach destination.

Cape Cod is a very popular place to visit for its beaches. Beaches in the area include long stretches of soft sand as well as tidal pools where kids can play. Several of the best beaches around Cape Cod include Mayflower Beach, Marconi Beach, and Race Point Beach.

Palm Springs is not a beach destination.

Is Cape Cod or Palm Springs Better for Hiking?

Palm Springs is great for hiking. Also, Cape Cod is not as popular, but is still a nice beach destination for the nearby hiking options.

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.

Cape Cod is a good destination for hiking. Hikes range from casual strolls to longer trails. Popular options include Bass Hole Boardwalk in Yarmouth and the 22 mile Cape Cod Rail Trail.

Is the Shopping Better in Cape Cod or Palm Springs?

If you're looking to go shopping, Cape Cod and Palm Springs both offer plenty of high quality spots.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in Cape Cod. Many of the area's towns have charming Main Streets where you can enjoy shopping and dining.

Palm Springs is an extremely popular place for shoppers. 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 Cape Cod or Palm Springs More Beautiful?

Cape Cod is notable for its scenery and beauty. However, Palm Springs is not a destination known for its beauty.

Cape Cod is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Beautiful beaches, quaint towns, and picturesque scenery make this area truly unique.

Palm Springs is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Cape Cod or Palm Springs Better for Families?

Both Cape Cod and Palm Springs are high quality family-friendly destinations.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Cape Cod. The coastal towns have a number of kid-friendly activities. In the Upper Cape, Falmouth is one of the best towns for families. On Mid Cape, Dennis and Yarmouth are both kid-friendly. Dennis has a resorty vibe and Yarmouth has kid-friendly museums. On the Lower Cape, both Harwich and Orleans are family-friendly options.

Palm Springs is 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.

Is Cape Cod or Palm Springs Better for Couples?

Cape Cod and Palm Springs both high quality destinations for a couple.

Cape Cod is a great beach destination if you're traveling as a couple. With its charming character and relaxing beach setting, honeymooners and couples will appreciate all that the area has to offer. There are peaceful settings and charming villages to explore. There are also award-winning restaurants and beautiful views.

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.

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

Cape Cod and Palm Springs both offer respectable public transit to get you around.

Public transit is mostly limited in Cape Cod. While there are buses and shuttles to help you get around, a car really is necessary to explore the area.

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 Cape Cod or Palm Springs a more walkable city?

Cape Cod and Palm Springs are notable when it comes to walkability.

Cape Cod is a somewhat walkable beach destination. Many of the small towns in the area have compact and walkable areas, but the region is spread out so it's helpful to have a car to get from place to place.

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

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

Should I spend more time in Palm Springs or Cape Cod?

How long in Cape Cod or Palm Springs?

It's fun to spend time in either Cape Cod or Palm Springs. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Cape Cod due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 5-7 days is a good amount of time for Cape Cod, and 2-4 days is enough time in Palm Springs.

Families should spend more time in Palm Springs than Cape Cod. 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 Cape Cod. 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 Cape Cod 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 Cape Cod or Palm Springs?

Cape Cod is a small town where visitors enjoy the shopping and food. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. 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 Cape Cod or Palm Springs?

Cape Cod is a fun place to experience. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring.

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 Cape Cod or Palm Springs?

Cape Cod might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. Most people come for the beaches. 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 Cape Cod or Palm Springs?

Cape Cod is a popular place to visit. Many people spend one week here. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then one week is just the right amount of time to spend here. 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 Photography Tours in United States of America, The Best Camping Tours in United States of America, The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in United States of America, and The Best Polar Tours & Cruises in United States of America.

When comparing the travel costs between Cape Cod 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 Cape Cod Expensive? and Is Palm Springs Expensive?.

When is the best time to visit Cape Cod 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 Cape Cod or Palm Springs in the Summer?

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

In the summer, Cape Cod is cooler than Palm Springs. Typically, the summer temperatures in Cape Cod in July average around 68°F (20°C), and Palm Springs averages at about 73°F (23°C).

Cape Cod usually gets more rain in July than Palm Springs. Cape Cod gets 3.8 inches (96 mm) of rain, while Palm Springs receives 0 inches (1 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Cape Cod or Palm Springs in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Cape Cod and Palm Springs. Many visitors come to Cape Cod in the autumn for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, most visitors come to Palm Springs for the hiking trails and the shopping scene during these months.

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

Cape Cod gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In October, Cape Cod usually receives more rain than Palm Springs. Cape Cod gets 4.4 inches (111 mm) of rain, while Palm Springs receives 0.3 inches (7 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Cape Cod or Palm Springs in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Cape Cod as well as Palm Springs. Most visitors come to Cape Cod for 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.

Cape Cod can be very cold during winter. Cape Cod is much colder than Palm Springs in the winter. The daily temperature in Cape Cod averages around 31°F (-0°C) in January, and Palm Springs fluctuates around 57°F (14°C).

Cape Cod receives a lot of rain in the winter. Cape Cod usually gets more rain in January than Palm Springs. Cape Cod gets 4.2 inches (106 mm) of rain, while Palm Springs receives 2 inches (52 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Cape Cod or Palm Springs in the Spring?

Both Palm Springs and Cape Cod are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The spring months attract visitors to Cape Cod because of the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty.

In the spring, Cape Cod is much colder than Palm Springs. Typically, the spring temperatures in Cape Cod in April average around 45°F (7°C), and Palm Springs averages at about 62°F (17°C).

It's quite rainy in Cape Cod. In April, Cape Cod usually receives more rain than Palm Springs. Cape Cod gets 4.1 inches (103 mm) of rain, while Palm Springs receives 0.9 inches (24 mm) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Palm Springs and Cape Cod