A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Palm Springs vs. Juneau for Nightlife, Hiking, Couples, and Attractions

Should you visit Palm Springs or Juneau?

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

Palm Springs

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

Juneau

Juneau is a scenic, breathtaking, and historic city. You'll find world class beauty in Juneau as well. It's also known for food, hiking, and shopping. See Juneau travel costs.

Palm Springs and Juneau: Pros and Cons

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
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Good for hiking
  • Known for its beauty
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife


Is there more to do in Palm Springs or Juneau?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Palm Springs. Although Palm Springs and Juneau are popular destinations, Palm Springs has more sights and attractions for tourists. Palm Springs is very popular for its nightlife and resorts, while Juneau attracts visitors for its museums and attractions, hiking, and impressive beauty. Palm Springs is more touristy than Juneau and is known for its golfing, shopping, and mid-century modern architecture. It is also well known for the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway. Juneau is famous for its wildlife, natural beauty, and Gold Rush in 1880.

How is Palm Springs different from Juneau?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Palm Springs
Juneau

Juneau 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 Juneau specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. Many museums focus on the history in the area, including the Gold Rush and the mining industry. You can visit several historic mines as well as the Last Chance Mining Museum. Other museums around town include the Juneau-Douglas City Museum, the Walter Soboleff Building, and the Alaska State Museum.

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

Palm Springs
Juneau

Picking the best cuisine and restaurants between Palm Springs and Juneau can be difficult as they are each great in their own way.

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.

Juneau has a huge number of terrific restaurants. The seafood is superb and visitors will regret if they miss out on the salmon, halibut, and crab. There are many local restaurants and local chefs serving up the freshest caught fish. For the best seafood, head to the waterfront, and if you're looking for something other than seafood, the downtown is where you'll want to be.

Is Palm Springs or Juneau Better for Nightlife?

Palm Springs
Juneau

Palm Springs is an amazing city to visit for nightlife and partying. However, Juneau is not a good city for its evening party scene.

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.

Those looking for nightlife will find a few places to hang out in Juneau. There are a couple of bars and breweries, but most people relax in the evening.

Is Palm Springs or Juneau Better for Resorts?

Palm Springs
Juneau

Palm Springs is an amazing city to visit for its resorts. However, Juneau is not a resort destination.

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.

Juneau is not a resort destination.


Is Palm Springs or Juneau Better for Hiking?

Palm Springs
Juneau

Juneau is an amazing city to visit for the nearby hiking options. Also, Palm Springs is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its hiking trails.

Many people visit Juneau specifically for its hiking. You'll find more than 250 miles of hiking trails in the area, and this really is the best way to experience Alaska. The area is known for its wildlife, but there are also glacier hikes, meadows, mountains, and more. In downtown Juneau there's the Perseverance Trail, the Granite Creek Trail, and the Mount Roberts Trail. From the Mendenhall Visitor Center there's the East Glacier Loop Trail, the West Glacier Trail, and the Nugget Falls Trail. There are also trails on Douglas Island and many options just outside of town.

Many visitors explore the nearby hiking trails while visiting 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.

Is the Shopping Better in Palm Springs or Juneau?

Palm Springs
Juneau

Both Palm Springs and Juneau are great shopping destinations.

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.

Juneau is well-known for its shopping. There's a mix of contemporary art and traditional artisan crafts. You'll find gift shops and art galleries around, particularly downtown and in the Mendenhall Valley business district. Visitors often enjoy buying art, wood carvings, jewelry, pottery, quilts, or dolls.

Is Palm Springs or Juneau More Beautiful?

Palm Springs
Juneau

Juneau is an amazing city to visit for its scenery and beauty. However, Palm Springs is not a destination known for its beauty.

You'll find world class beauty in Juneau as well. The landscape is filled with glaciers, mountains, and fjords, making it a dramatic and beautiful destination.

Palm Springs is not a destination known for its beauty.


Is Palm Springs or Juneau Better for Families?

Palm Springs
Juneau

You'll find great kid-friendly activities in either Palm Springs or Juneau.

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.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Juneau is very family-friendly. Its is filled with adventure that the whole family will enjoy. There's whale watching, dog sled tours, helicopter rides, hiking, and the Goldbelt Mount Roberts Tramway. This bucket-list destination will have an impact on kids and adults alike.

Is Palm Springs or Juneau Better for Couples?

Palm Springs
Juneau

Juneau is an amazing city to visit for romance. Also, Palm Springs is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its romantic activities.

For those traveling as a couple, Juneau has plenty to offer. Couples who enjoy exploring and adventuring will be in awe of this destination. Glacier trekking, superb gardens, and romantic helicopter rides will leave you feeling like a contestant on "The Bachelor". There are also opportunities for romantic evenings out and cozy hotels where you can stay in.

Palm Springs makes for a fun place to visit for 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.

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

Palm Springs
Juneau

Juneau is notable for backpackers. However, Palm Springs is a mediocre city for backpackers and budget travelers.

Backpackers come from all over to visit Juneau. It's a popular destination with budget hotels and even a hostel or two.

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

Palm Springs
Juneau

Both Palm Springs and Juneau offer reasonable public transit options.

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 mostly limited in Juneau. You can only reach Juneau by boat or plane and there are three bus routes through town.

Is Palm Springs or Juneau a more walkable city?

Palm Springs
Juneau

Juneau 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.

Juneau is very walkable. The downtown is very walkable and many places can be reached within a reasonable walk.

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

Should I spend more time in Juneau or Palm Springs?

How long in Palm Springs or Juneau?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Palm Springs and Juneau. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Palm Springs than in Juneau. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Palm Springs, and 2-3 days is enough time in Juneau.

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

Couples should spend more time in Juneau than Palm Springs. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Juneau that are perfect for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

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


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

One day in Palm Springs or Juneau?

Many travelers enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the destination of Palm Springs. Hikers are also drawn to this area. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

In Juneau, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this breathtaking 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.


A weekend in Palm Springs or Juneau?

Palm Springs is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. Don't miss the nightlife, as that's what most people do. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Juneau is a fun place to experience. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. 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 hiking. So, a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

Five days in Palm Springs or Juneau?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Palm Springs. Don't miss the nightlife, as that's what most people do. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

You'll find food and shopping around the historic destination of Juneau. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Lots of people come for the hiking. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days.

A week in Palm Springs or Juneau?

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the ritzy destination of Palm Springs. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

Juneau 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.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Sightseeing Tours in United States of America, The Best Cruise Tours and Packages in United States of America, The Best Cultural Tours in United States of America, and The Best Photography Tours in United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Juneau or Palm Springs?

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

  • Palm Springs Prices
    USA Prices
    Juneau Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Palm Springs $244
    Juneau $196

The average daily cost (per person) in Palm Springs is $244, while the average daily cost in Juneau is $196. 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 Palm Springs and Juneau in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Palm Springs $120
    Juneau $88
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Palm Springs $240
    Juneau $176
Compare Hotels in Palm Springs and Juneau

Looking for a hotel in Palm Springs or Juneau? 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 Palm Springs


Hotels in Juneau


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: Palm Springs Hotel Prices and Juneau Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Palm Springs $52
    Juneau $38

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Palm Springs

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Palm Springs:

  • Private Transfer from PSP to Vía La Quinta, Indio, CA : $173
  • Palm Springs Airport (PSP) to Desert Hot Springs Arrival Transfer: $201
  • Desert Hot Springs to Palm Springs Airport PSP Departure Transfer: $201
  • Private Airport Transfer in Palm Springs: $214

Is it cheaper to fly into Palm Springs or Juneau?

Prices for flights to both Juneau and Palm Springs 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
    Palm Springs $92
    Juneau $85

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Palm Springs

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

  • Private Palm Springs Cooking Class with a Fun Local Chef Stephen: $199

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Palm Springs $29
    Juneau $17

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
  • Joshua Tree National Park Self-Guided Driving Audio Tour: $15
  • Death Valley National Park Self-Guided Audio Driving 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
  • Private 1-Hour Archery Experience around Joshua Tree National Park.: $28
  • Self-Driving Windmill Tour: $30
  • Palm Springs Aerial Tramway Admission Ticket: $33
  • Aerial Tramway Round-Trip Ticket: $35
  • All-In-One California Self-Guided Driving & Walking Bundle Tour: $50

Typical Entertainment Prices in Juneau

Some typical examples of activities, tours, and entrance ticket prices in Juneau are as follows:


  • 1 Day Bike Rental
    $25
  • Admission to Alaska State Museum
    $5.00
  • Glacier Gardens
    $22

Tours and Activities in Juneau

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

  • City Highlights Bus Tour: $51
  • Juneau City Tour: $52
  • Mendenhall Glacier Trolley Tour: $79
  • Juneau Underground Gold Mine and Panning Experience: $94
  • Historical Walking Tour of Abandoned Gold Rush Era City with AR: $99
  • Historic Gold Mining and Panning Adventure: $99
  • Whale Watching Adventure in Juneau: $123
  • From Whale Watching Cruise with Snacks: $123
  • Trails and Ale Tour and Tram Combo: $125
  • Tram, Trails and Ale Tour: $125
  • Juneau Highlights and Mendenhall Glacier Tour: $129
  • Alaska Native Tour and Tram Combo: $145

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Palm Springs $13
    Juneau $16

Sample the Local Flavors in Juneau

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

  • Walking Pub Crawl in Downtown Juneau: $115
  • Craft Brews & Epic Views: Juneau's Brewery & Sightseeing Tour!: $159
  • Craft Beer and Brewery Tour with Scenic Stops: $159


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

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


Which is Bigger, Palm Springs or Juneau?

Palm Springs has a larger population, and is about 39% larger than the population of Juneau. When comparing the sizes of Palm Springs and Juneau, 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 Palm Springs or Juneau?

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 Palm Springs or Juneau in the Summer?

Both Juneau and Palm Springs are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Palm Springs for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Juneau because of the hiking and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Palm Springs is much warmer than Juneau. Typically, the summer temperatures in Palm Springs in July average around 73°F (23°C), and Juneau averages at about 56°F (13°C).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Juneau. In July, Palm Springs usually receives less rain than Juneau. Palm Springs gets 0 inches (1 mm) of rain, while Juneau receives 4.2 inches (106 mm) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Palm Springs 73°F (23°C) 
    Juneau 56°F (13°C)

Should I visit Palm Springs or Juneau in the Autumn?

Both Juneau and Palm Springs during the autumn are popular places to visit. The autumn months attract visitors to Palm Springs because of the hiking trails and the shopping scene. Furthermore, the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Juneau this time of year.

In October, Palm Springs is generally much warmer than Juneau. Daily temperatures in Palm Springs average around 69°F (20°C), and Juneau fluctuates around 42°F (6°C).

Juneau gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Palm Springs usually gets less rain in October than Juneau. Palm Springs gets 0.3 inches (7 mm) of rain, while Juneau receives 7.8 inches (199 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Palm Springs 69°F (20°C) 
    Juneau 42°F (6°C)

Should I visit Palm Springs or Juneau in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Palm Springs and Juneau. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Palm Springs this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Juneau for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Juneau. Palm Springs is much warmer than Juneau in the winter. The daily temperature in Palm Springs averages around 57°F (14°C) in January, and Juneau fluctuates around 24°F (-4°C).

Juneau receives a lot of rain in the winter. In January, Palm Springs usually receives less rain than Juneau. Palm Springs gets 2 inches (52 mm) of rain, while Juneau receives 4.6 inches (116 mm) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Palm Springs 57°F (14°C) 
    Juneau 24°F (-4°C)

Should I visit Palm Springs or Juneau in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Palm Springs as well as Juneau. Additionally, many visitors come to Juneau in the spring for the natural beauty.

Juneau can get quite cold in the spring. In the spring, Palm Springs is much warmer than Juneau. Typically, the spring temperatures in Palm Springs in April average around 62°F (17°C), and Juneau averages at about 40°F (4°C).

Palm Springs usually gets less rain in April than Juneau. Palm Springs gets 0.9 inches (24 mm) of rain, while Juneau receives 2.7 inches (68 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Palm Springs 62°F (17°C) 
    Juneau 40°F (4°C)

Typical Weather for Juneau and Palm Springs

Palm Springs Juneau
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 57°F (14°C) 2 inches (52 mm) 24°F (-4°C) 4.6 inches (116 mm)
Feb 58°F (15°C) 2.3 inches (58 mm) 28°F (-2°C) 3.7 inches (94 mm)
Mar 59°F (15°C) 2.2 inches (57 mm) 33°F (0°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm)
Apr 62°F (17°C) 0.9 inches (24 mm) 40°F (4°C) 2.7 inches (68 mm)
May 65°F (18°C) 0.2 inches (6 mm) 47°F (8°C) 3.3 inches (85 mm)
Jun 69°F (20°C) 0.1 inches (2 mm) 53°F (12°C) 3.1 inches (80 mm)
Jul 73°F (23°C) 0 inches (1 mm) 56°F (13°C) 4.2 inches (106 mm)
Aug 74°F (24°C) 0.2 inches (4 mm) 55°F (13°C) 5.3 inches (135 mm)
Sep 73°F (23°C) 0.4 inches (9 mm) 49°F (10°C) 7 inches (179 mm)
Oct 69°F (20°C) 0.3 inches (7 mm) 42°F (6°C) 7.8 inches (199 mm)
Nov 62°F (17°C) 1.5 inches (39 mm) 32°F (-0°C) 4.9 inches (123 mm)
Dec 57°F (14°C) 1.7 inches (42 mm) 27°F (-3°C) 4.4 inches (113 mm)