A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Palm Springs vs. Ottawa for Nightlife, Attractions, Food, and Families

Should you visit Palm Springs or Ottawa?

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 Ottawa can help you decide which place is right for you.

Palm Springs

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

Ottawa

Ottawa is a cultural, friendly, and welcoming city. It's also known for food, shopping, and museums. See Ottawa travel costs.

Palm Springs and Ottawa: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Palm Springs or Ottawa?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Palm Springs than Ottawa, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Palm Springs is better known for its food, nightlife, resorts, hiking, and shopping, while Ottawa is more popular for its museums and attractions. Palm Springs is more touristy than Ottawa and is popular for its golfing, shopping, and mid-century modern architecture. Also, Palm Springs is famous for the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway. Ottawa is well known for its history, politics, and green space.

How is Palm Springs different from Ottawa?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Ottawa 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 Ottawa?

Ottawa 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 Ottawa specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. As the country's capital, there are a large number of museums to explore. There are summer national museums in town which include the National Gallery of Canada, the Museum of History, the Science and Technology Museum, the Aviation and Space Museum, the Agriculture and Food Museum, the Museum of Nature, and the War 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 Ottawa? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Palm Springs is a very popular place for its restaurants. Also, Ottawa is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

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.

Ottawa offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. The culinary scene highlights many Canadian classics like poutine and maple donuts (and, of course, the classic Tim Horton's), but you'll also find plenty of international options like shawarma.

Is Palm Springs or Ottawa Better for Nightlife?

Palm Springs is a world-class destination for its evening party scene. However, Ottawa is lacking in good options for nightlife.

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.

Ottawa is generally a quiet destination but there are options around. It's not the first place that comes to mind when you think about partying, but there are live music venues and a some great bars around town.

Is Palm Springs or Ottawa Better for Resorts?

Palm Springs is a world-class destination for its luxury resorts. However, Ottawa 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.

Ottawa is not a resort destination.

Is Palm Springs or Ottawa Better for Hiking?

Palm Springs is a very popular place for its hiking trails. However, Ottawa is not a hiking destination.

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.

Ottawa is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Palm Springs or Ottawa?

Palm Springs is a very popular place for its shopping areas. Also, Ottawa is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for shopping.

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.

Ottawa is a great destination for shopping. You'll find large malls, outlets, and shopping streets that are fun to browse. Some of the favorite shopping areas include ByWard Market, Sparks Street, and CF Rideau Centre.

Is Palm Springs or Ottawa Better for Families?

Palm Springs is a very popular place for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Ottawa is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

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.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Ottawa. As the country's capital, you'll find a number of museums that will keep a kid's attention. In particular, check out the aviation, science, and nature museums. If you have a car, you can head out to Calypso Water Park, which is fun as well.

Is Palm Springs or Ottawa Better for Couples?

Palm Springs is a very popular place for couples. Also, Ottawa is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for romance.

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.

Ottawa is a nice destination for couples. The city is filled with parks and green spaces where you can enjoy flowers or peaceful walks. Commissioners Park is particularly nice and known for its tulips during the spring season. Dow's Lake is a nice place for ice skating in the winter or kayaking in the summer. The city also offers a number of romantic restaurants and charming hotels.

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

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

Ottawa is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. Although the city is often overlooked by tourists, there are a surprising number of hostels around town.

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 Ottawa Better for Students?

Ottawa is very good for students. However, Palm Springs is not popular with students.

Ottawa is a good city to visit for students. It appeals to international and Canadian students alike. It's known for its livability and diverse cultural scene.

Palm Springs is not popular with students.

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

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

Ottawa has a few public transit options. There is both a public bus and 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 Palm Springs or Ottawa a more walkable city?

Palm Springs and Ottawa both are notable when exploring on foot.

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

Ottawa is a somewhat walkable place. Many of the urban neighborhoods are very walkable.

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

Should I spend more time in Ottawa or Palm Springs?

How long in Palm Springs or Ottawa?

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

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

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

One day in Palm Springs or Ottawa?

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 Ottawa, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this friendly 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.

A weekend in Palm Springs or Ottawa?

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.

Ottawa 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.

Five days in Palm Springs or Ottawa?

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 cultural destination of Ottawa. 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.

A week in Palm Springs or Ottawa?

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the chic 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.

Ottawa 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.

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, Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in Canada, and The Best Coach Bus Tours in Canada.

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

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 Ottawa Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Palm Springs or Ottawa?

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

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 Palm Springs or Ottawa in the Summer?

Both Ottawa and Palm Springs during the summer are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Palm Springs for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Furthermore, the summer months attract visitors to Ottawa because of the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Palm Springs is generally around the same temperature as Ottawa. Daily temperatures in Palm Springs average around 73°F (23°C), and Ottawa fluctuates around 21°C (71°F).

Palm Springs usually gets less rain in July than Ottawa. Palm Springs gets 0 inches (1 mm) of rain, while Ottawa receives 87 mm (3.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Palm Springs or Ottawa in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Palm Springs and Ottawa. The autumn months attract visitors to Palm Springs because of the hiking trails and the shopping scene. Furthermore, the shopping scene are the main draw to Ottawa this time of year.

Palm Springs is much warmer than Ottawa in the autumn. The daily temperature in Palm Springs averages around 69°F (20°C) in October, and Ottawa fluctuates around 9°C (48°F).

In October, Palm Springs usually receives less rain than Ottawa. Palm Springs gets 0.3 inches (7 mm) of rain, while Ottawa receives 75 mm (3 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Palm Springs or Ottawa in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Palm Springs as well as Ottawa. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Palm Springs this time of year. Additionally, many travelers come to Ottawa for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Ottawa. In the winter, Palm Springs is much warmer than Ottawa. Typically, the winter temperatures in Palm Springs in January average around 57°F (14°C), and Ottawa averages at about -10°C (14°F).

Palm Springs usually gets around the same amount of rain in January as Ottawa. Palm Springs gets 2 inches (52 mm) of rain, while Ottawa receives 51 mm (2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Palm Springs or Ottawa in the Spring?

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

In April, Palm Springs is generally much warmer than Ottawa. Daily temperatures in Palm Springs average around 62°F (17°C), and Ottawa fluctuates around 6°C (44°F).

In April, Palm Springs usually receives less rain than Ottawa. Palm Springs gets 0.9 inches (24 mm) of rain, while Ottawa receives 65 mm (2.6 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Ottawa and Palm Springs