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

Should you visit Palm Springs or Vernon?

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

Palm Springs

Palm Springs is a chic, outdoorsy, and ritzy city. Other popular activities here include museums, nightlife, and food. See Palm Springs travel costs.

Vernon

Vernon is a peaceful, relaxing, and quiet town. It's also known for food, hiking, and shopping. See Vernon travel costs.

Palm Springs and Vernon: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Palm Springs or Vernon?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Palm Springs than Vernon, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Palm Springs is more touristy than Vernon and is known for its golfing, shopping, and mid-century modern architecture. Also, Palm Springs is famous for the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway. Vernon is well known for its surrounding valley with lakes and hiking trails.

How is Palm Springs different from Vernon?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Both Palm Springs and Vernon have notable landmarks and museums for visitors.

Palm Springs is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. 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.

Vernon offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. There are local galleries and museums that offer information on the region's history and culture. You can visit the Canadian Wildlife Museum, the Caetani Center, the Museum and Archives of Vernon, the Paddlewheel Park Stationhouse Museum, and the Vernon Public Art Gallery.

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

Palm Springs is a well-known place for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Vernon is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its restaurants.

Dining out in Palm Springs is an experience not to be missed. 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.

There are plenty of up and coming restaurants around Vernon. The region is known for its vineyards and wineries and many of the local restaurants have been around for generations. The food is often locally produced and prepared with traditional recipes.

Is Palm Springs or Vernon Better for Nightlife?

Palm Springs is terrific for its evening party scene. However, Vernon is not a good town for nightlife.

Palm Springs is a must-see party destination. 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 Vernon. The town gets very quiet in the evenings, so you won't find much of a nightlife scene.

Is Palm Springs or Vernon Better for Resorts?

Palm Springs is terrific for its resorts. However, Vernon is not a resort destination.

Palm Springs offers an unforgettable resort vacation. Resorts range from luxurious to more laid back. Most have impressive pools and many have their own spas, restaurants, and entertainment options.

Vernon is not a resort destination.

Is Palm Springs or Vernon Better for Hiking?

You'll find excellent hiking in both Palm Springs and Vernon.

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.

Many visitors explore the nearby hiking trails while visiting Vernon. The surrounding valley has more than 300 kilometers of hiking trails. They run along pristine lakes, pass by granite rock formations, and take you to impressive viewpoints.

Is the Shopping Better in Palm Springs or Vernon?

Palm Springs is a well-known place for its shopping areas. Also, Vernon is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for shopping.

Browsing through shops is a popular activity 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.

Plenty of visitors enjoy shopping while in Vernon. There are a number of boutique shops that are fun to explore in the downtown area.

Is Palm Springs or Vernon Better for Families?

Palm Springs is a well-known place for its family-friendly activities. Also, Vernon is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

Palm Springs is known to be 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.

Vernon is a family-friendly city. There are biking and hiking trails as well as other outdoor activities. You can also visit the Allan Brooks Nature Center or the Rock Garden Climbing Center.

Is Palm Springs or Vernon Better for Couples?

Palm Springs is a well-known place for couples. Also, Vernon is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for romance.

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.

Vernon is a nice destination for couples. It offers a peaceful getaway for couples. You can visit the Okanagan wineries or enjoy one of the many hiking trails. There are also nice restaurants to try.

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

Both Palm Springs and Vernon offer respectable 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 Vernon. There is a bus system, but it's better not to rely on it.

Is Palm Springs or Vernon a more walkable city?

Palm Springs is a nice place to visit for its ease of walking around. However, Vernon is not a good town for its walkability.

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

Vernon is generally not a very walkable city. You'll really want to have a car to make the most of your time here.

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

Should I spend more time in Vernon or Palm Springs?

How long in Palm Springs or Vernon?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Palm Springs and Vernon. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Palm Springs than in Vernon. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Palm Springs, and 1-3 days is enough time in Vernon.

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

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 Vernon, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this relaxing town offers. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. In one day, you should have a good grasp of this town.

A weekend in Palm Springs or Vernon?

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.

Vernon 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. So, a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

Five days in Palm Springs or Vernon?

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 relaxing destination of Vernon. Hikers are also drawn to this area. 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 Vernon?

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.

Vernon 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 Coach Bus Tours in Canada, and The Best Adventure Tours to Canada.

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

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 Vernon Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Palm Springs or Vernon?

Vernon has a larger population, and is about 10% larger than the population of Palm Springs. When comparing the sizes of Palm Springs and Vernon, 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 Vernon?

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 Vernon in the Summer?

Both Vernon and Palm Springs are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The hiking and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Palm Springs this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Vernon for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences.

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

In July, Palm Springs usually receives less rain than Vernon. Palm Springs gets 0 inches (1 mm) of rain, while Vernon receives 28 mm (1.1 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Palm Springs or Vernon in the Autumn?

Both Vernon and Palm Springs during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Palm Springs for the hiking trails and the shopping scene. Furthermore, many visitors come to Vernon in the autumn for the hiking trails and the shopping scene.

Palm Springs is much warmer than Vernon in the autumn. The daily temperature in Palm Springs averages around 69°F (20°C) in October, and Vernon fluctuates around 11°C (51°F).

Palm Springs usually gets less rain in October than Vernon. Palm Springs gets 0.3 inches (7 mm) of rain, while Vernon receives 14 mm (0.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Palm Springs or Vernon in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Palm Springs and Vernon. Many visitors come to Palm Springs in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Furthermore, most visitors come to Vernon for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Vernon can be very cold during winter. In the winter, Palm Springs is much warmer than Vernon. Typically, the winter temperatures in Palm Springs in January average around 57°F (14°C), and Vernon averages at about -3°C (27°F).

In January, Palm Springs usually receives more rain than Vernon. Palm Springs gets 2 inches (52 mm) of rain, while Vernon receives 26 mm (1 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Palm Springs or Vernon in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Palm Springs as well as Vernon.

In April, Palm Springs is generally a little warmer than Vernon. Daily temperatures in Palm Springs average around 62°F (17°C), and Vernon fluctuates around 12°C (53°F).

Palm Springs usually gets more rain in April than Vernon. Palm Springs gets 0.9 inches (24 mm) of rain, while Vernon receives 15 mm (0.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Vernon and Palm Springs