A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Gatlinburg vs. Palm Springs for Nightlife, Resorts, Food, and Hiking

Should you visit Gatlinburg 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 Gatlinburg and Palm Springs can help you decide which place is right for you.

Gatlinburg

Gatlinburg is a flashy, high energy, and wild city. It's also known for shopping, museums, and skiing. See Gatlinburg travel costs.

Palm Springs

Palm Springs is a outdoorsy, ritzy, and chic city. Other reasons to visit include shopping, museums, and nightlife. See Palm Springs travel costs.

Gatlinburg and Palm Springs: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Gatlinburg or Palm Springs?

Both Palm Springs and Gatlinburg have plenty of things to do for travelers. Both provide a wide variety of sights and activities for tourists. Gatlinburg is more popular for its skiing, while Palm Springs is known for its food, resorts, and shopping. Gatlinburg is popular for its countless entertainment venues as well as its easy access to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Palm Springs is popular for its golfing, shopping, and mid-century modern architecture.

How is Gatlinburg different from Palm Springs?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Gatlinburg or Palm Springs Better for Skiing?

Gatlinburg is very good for snow skiing. However, Palm Springs is not a skiing destination.

Gatlinburg is a great destination for skiing with plenty areas to explore. Ober Gatlinburg is the only ski area in Tennessee. The winter activities open after Thanksgiving and include snow skiing, snowboarding, ice skating, and tubing.

Palm Springs is not a skiing destination.

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

Spend time exploring the good sights and museums in either Gatlinburg or Palm Springs.

Gatlinburg is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. Museums range from gaudy to quirky. Check out the Hollywood Star Cars Museum, the Salt and Pepper Shaker Museum, Ripley's Believe It or Not, the Hollywood Wax Museum, and the Titanic Museum. There's also the Gatlinburg Space Needle and the Gatlinburg SkyBridge.

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

Palm Springs is great for its local flavors and cuisine. However, Gatlinburg is not a good destination for its local cuisine and restaurants.

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in 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.

You'll find the standard options when it comes to food in Gatlinburg. Staying true to form, restaurants in Gatlinburg cater to the tourist scene and serve up burgers, pizza, pancakes, and other classic favorites.

Is Gatlinburg or Palm Springs Better for Nightlife?

The vibe at night is fantastic in both Gatlinburg and Palm Springs.

Gatlinburg is a destination that you simply have to visit at least once for nightlife. Live music, theatrical shows, as well as bars and clubs that stay open late into the night give this town a huge party atmosphere. During the peak season the town is packed with people looking to have a good time and you'll find tons of things to do by simply walking down the main drag.

Palm Springs has a colorful and one-of-a-kind nightlife scene. 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.

Is Gatlinburg or Palm Springs Better for Resorts?

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

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.

Gatlinburg is a popular resort destination that attracts visitors from everywhere. There are plenty of resorts and vacation clubs near town. Many have pools, waterslides, or hot tubs.

Is Gatlinburg or Palm Springs Better for Hiking?

You'll find very good hiking in both Gatlinburg and Palm Springs.

Many visitors go to Gatlinburg for the hiking trails. You'll need to head out of town into the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, but once you're there the hiking is impressive. There are waterfall hikes, trails to viewpoints, and loops that take you through wildflowers. Some of the most popular trails include Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail, Middle Prong Trail, and the Gatlinburg Trail.

Palm Springs is a popular spot for hiking. 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.

Is the Shopping Better in Gatlinburg or Palm Springs?

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

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting 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.

Gatlinburg offers some nice shopping areas. There are tourist traps and souvenir shops around town, but you can also head to the Great Smoky Arts and Crafts Community where you can meet local artists and learn about their work.

Is Gatlinburg or Palm Springs Better for Families?

Palm Springs is great for its kid-friendly activities. However, Gatlinburg is not a family-friendly destination.

Palm Springs is a very family-friendly destination. 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.

Gatlinburg is not a family-friendly destination. Ober Gatlinburg is a combination ski resort and amusement park that is a highlight for many families. During the warmer season, horseback riding and waterparks are popular. There's also a Ripley's Aquarium, minigolf, and Gatlin's Fun Center. Nearby you'll find Dollywood and Pigeon Forge.

Is Gatlinburg or Palm Springs Better for Couples?

Both Gatlinburg and Palm Springs are very good destinations to visit as a couple.

Gatlinburg is a great city if you're traveling as a couple. If you're looking for a flashy and ostentatious experience, then there are all the typical activities around town - Ripley's Believe It or Not, the Gatlinburg Space Needle, or Ober Gatlinburg. For a bit more nature, you can head out of town and enjoy one of the many hiking trails. There are also breweries and wineries in the area, as well as a range of resorts.

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

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

Gatlinburg has a few public transit options. There's a free trolley service that offers a convenient way to get 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 Gatlinburg or Palm Springs a more walkable city?

Gatlinburg 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.

Gatlinburg is very walkable. The downtown area is pedestrian-friendly and most of the attractions in town can be reached on foot. If you want to leave town, a car is a must, but in town traffic and parking can be frustrating, so walk when you can.

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

Should I spend more time in Palm Springs or Gatlinburg?

How long in Gatlinburg or Palm Springs?

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

Families should spend more time in Palm Springs than Gatlinburg. 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.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Gatlinburg 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 Gatlinburg.

One day in Gatlinburg or Palm Springs?

In Gatlinburg, many people enjoy the nightlife and shopping that this wild city offers. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. 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 ritzy 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 Gatlinburg or Palm Springs?

Gatlinburg is a fun place to experience. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. Lots of people come for the nightlife. 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 Gatlinburg or Palm Springs?

You'll find museums and skiing around the flashy destination of Gatlinburg. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Lots of people come for the nightlife. 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 Gatlinburg or Palm Springs?

Gatlinburg is a popular place to visit. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. 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 2-Week Tours from San Francisco, The Best 2-Week Tours from Los Angeles, The Best Family-Friendly Tours to United States of America, and The Best Wildlife Tours to United States of America.

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

Which is Bigger, Gatlinburg or Palm Springs?

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

Both Palm Springs and Gatlinburg during the summer are popular places to visit. The summer months attract visitors to Gatlinburg because of the hiking. Also, the hiking and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Palm Springs this time of year.

Gatlinburg is a little warmer than Palm Springs in the summer. The daily temperature in Gatlinburg averages around 81°F (27°C) in July, and Palm Springs fluctuates around 73°F (23°C).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Gatlinburg. Gatlinburg usually gets more rain in July than Palm Springs. Gatlinburg gets 4.7 inches (119 mm) of rain, while Palm Springs receives 0 inches (1 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Gatlinburg or Palm Springs in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Gatlinburg and Palm Springs. The hiking trails and the shopping scene are the main draw to Gatlinburg this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Palm Springs for the hiking trails and the shopping scene.

In the autumn, Gatlinburg is cooler than Palm Springs. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Gatlinburg in October average around 63°F (17°C), and Palm Springs averages at about 69°F (20°C).

In October, Gatlinburg usually receives more rain than Palm Springs. Gatlinburg gets 2.7 inches (68 mm) of rain, while Palm Springs receives 0.3 inches (7 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Gatlinburg or Palm Springs in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Gatlinburg as well as Palm Springs. Many travelers come to Gatlinburg for the skiing, 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 Gatlinburg. In January, Gatlinburg is generally much colder than Palm Springs. Daily temperatures in Gatlinburg average around 40°F (5°C), and Palm Springs fluctuates around 57°F (14°C).

Gatlinburg receives a lot of rain in the winter. Gatlinburg usually gets more rain in January than Palm Springs. Gatlinburg gets 4.7 inches (119 mm) of rain, while Palm Springs receives 2 inches (52 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Gatlinburg or Palm Springs in the Spring?

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

Gatlinburg is around the same temperature as Palm Springs in the spring. The daily temperature in Gatlinburg averages around 62°F (17°C) in April, and Palm Springs fluctuates around 62°F (17°C).

In April, Gatlinburg usually receives more rain than Palm Springs. Gatlinburg gets 3.6 inches (92 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 Gatlinburg