A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Atlanta vs. Boulder for Attractions, Food, Nightlife, and Families

Should you visit Atlanta or Boulder?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Atlanta or Boulder, this travel comparison, which includes costs, can help. The overall cost of travel is usually a consideration when deciding where to go next, and the cost comparison down below can help you decide based on the average prices from other travelers along with your own travel budget.

Atlanta

Atlanta is a diverse, sprawling, and suburban city. Travelers will also find plenty of sights and attractions here, as it's a big city that attracts lots of visitors. Visitors also love the museums, nightlife, and food. See Atlanta travel costs.

Boulder

Boulder is a nature-filled, biker-friendly, and outdoorsy city. Boulder offers plenty of beauty for visitors. It's also popular because of the shopping, nightlife, and live music. See Boulder travel costs.

Atlanta and Boulder: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Atlanta or Boulder?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Atlanta than Boulder, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Atlanta is more popular for its museums and attractions, food, nightlife, shopping, and big city activities, while Boulder is known for its skiing, music, hiking, and impressive beauty. Atlanta is popular for its world class aquarium, its role as host of the 1996 Olympic Games, and its influence during the Civil Rights Movement. It is also home to the Georgia Aquarium. Boulder is popular for its outdoor sports, biker-friendly downtown, vibrant downtown, and many local breweries.

How is Atlanta different from Boulder?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Atlanta or Boulder Better for Skiing?

Boulder is adequate for skiing. However, Atlanta is not a skiing destination.

While in the area, visitors like to go to Boulder for snow skiing. The town offers access within an hour or two to several great ski resorts including Eldora Mountain, Vail, and Breckenridge.

Atlanta is not a skiing destination.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Atlanta or Boulder?

Atlanta is an unbeatable place for its historical sights. However, Boulder is not known for its sights and museums.

The museums and tourist attractions in Atlanta are world-renowned. The museums range in topic from history to science and art. The country's largest aquarium, the Georgia Aquarium, is in Atlanta as well. It's home to whale sharks, stingrays, and a diversity of marine life. Other museums around town include the Atlanta History Center, the Fernbank Museum of Natural History, the High Museum of Art, the World of Coca Cola, the David J. Sencer CDC Museum, and the Delta Flight Museum. There are also many monuments and sites including the Martin Luther King Jr. National Historic Site.

Boulder offers a handful of options for museums and historical sights. Most people visit Boulder for the outdoor activities more than the museums and sights. If have the time you can wander around the University of Colorado Boulder campus, visit the Museum of Boulder, or see the Leanin' Tree Museum of Western Art.

Is the Food Better in Atlanta or Boulder? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Atlanta is a great city for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Boulder is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Atlanta has a huge number of terrific restaurants. It's a huge city with a wide selection of restaurants including international, local, and classic southern styles. Fried chicken, biscuits, diner food, and barbecue are all popular. For a classic southern breakfast check out The OK Cafe and for a quintessential Atlanta experience go to The Varsity.

There are many up and coming restaurants in the Boulder area. This is an often overlooked foodie town, with great farmer's markets and restaurants to try. There are many casual places to eat as well as vegetarian and vegan friendly options everywhere.

Is Atlanta or Boulder Better for Nightlife?

Atlanta is a great city for nightlife and partying. Also, Boulder is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its evening party scene.

The nightlife in Atlanta has something for everybody. The nightlife scene is diverse with trendy bars, dance clubs, and huge music halls. There are a number of neighborhoods that each have their own atmosphere. For some of the best nightlife check out the upscale bars in Buckhead, the music venues in Midtown, the hipster vibe in Edgewood, or the laid-back atmosphere in Virginia Highland.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Boulder. The town has breweries, craft beer, and plenty to do in the evening. Live music is popular and many venues are smaller with a more personal atmosphere. Check out The Bitter Bar or License No. 1 for a local vibe.

Is Atlanta or Boulder Better for Music?

Boulder is a nice place to visit for its music scene. However, Atlanta is not a live music destination.

The music scene helps keep Boulder active and fun. During the summer months there are often outdoor concerts. Head to Pearl Street for open air stages or see a concert at Boulder Theater.

Atlanta is not a live music destination.

Is Atlanta or Boulder Better for Hiking?

Boulder is a great city for hiking. However, Atlanta is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors go to Boulder for the hiking trails. There are many accessible hikes in the area that take you through the mountains, by wildflowers, or up mountain peaks. Popular hikes that are nearby include the Bear Peak Summit Hike, the trails in Eldorado Canyon State Park, and Boulder Falls.

Atlanta is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Atlanta or Boulder?

Atlanta is an unbeatable place for its shopping opportunities. Also, Boulder is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its shopping areas.

Known for shopping, Atlanta draws large crowds to its stores. There are a number of great shopping districts around town. Atlantic Station is popular with a movie theater and ice skating. Buckhead has boutique and local vendors and Lenox Square has a large shopping mall.

Many visitors go to Boulder to go shopping. The downtown area has many local retailers where you can shop for clothing, art, or home goods. You can also pick up outdoor gear, camping equipment, and any other items you may need in town. Make sure you wander down the pedestrian-friendly Pearl Street Mall.

Is Atlanta or Boulder More Beautiful?

Boulder is a nice place to visit for its scenery and beauty. However, Atlanta is not a destination known for its beauty.

Boulder offers plenty of beauty for visitors. The city is surrounded by beautiful mountains and breathtaking landscapes. Many people move here specifically for the surrounding natural beauty.

Atlanta is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Atlanta or Boulder Better for Families?

Atlanta is a great city for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Boulder is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its family-friendly activities.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Atlanta is very family-friendly. There is no shortage of playgrounds around town, but a highlight of any trip is a visit to the Georgia Aquarium. It's the largest aquarium in the United States and its home to whale sharks, hammerheads, dolphin shows, and more. It is so much more than just an aquarium, and it truly is a not to be missed experience. Also worth a visit are Zoo Atlanta, the Center of Puppetry Arts, Stone Mountain, Fernbank Museum of Natural History, and the Lego Discovery Center. If you have the chance to see the Atlanta Braves play, that's also a rewarding experience.

Boulder is a family-friendly place to visit. The city has parks, playgrounds, a planetarium, and climbing gyms that are fun for kids of all ages. There are plenty places to get outdoors with hiking, kayaking, and other outdoor recreational activities. Eldorado Canyon State Park is a great place to explore as well.

Is Atlanta or Boulder Better for Couples?

Atlanta and Boulder are both good to visit as a couple.

Atlanta is a good city for couples to visit. It's a big city, so there are a number of date night activities available such as orchestra concerts, theater shows, and fine dining. The city also has many outdoor areas like Lake Lanier and Piedmont Park. The Georgia Aquarium is world class, and there are other amazing museums around town as well.

Boulder is a nice destination for couples. This is a great city for couples who love outdoor adventures, hiking, rock climbing, and cycling. You can wander down Pearl Street or go for a bike ride. There are also great restaurants where you can enjoy a meal and then head to Panorama Point to take in the view.

Is Atlanta or Boulder Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

For backpackers, both Atlanta and Boulder are good places to visit.

It's common for backpackers to visit Atlanta. While it's usually overlooked by backpackers, there are actually a couple of hostels around town and a surprising number of activities worth experiencing. The city's large airport make it a convenient entry point for international travelers.

Boulder is a good city to visit for backpackers. There are a number of backcountry areas in the region that are perfect for backpackers. The city also has a young population and several affordable places to stay.

Is Atlanta or Boulder Better for Students?

For students, both Atlanta and Boulder are great places to visit.

Atlanta is a great city to visit as a student. There are a number of universities in town such as Emory, Georgia Institute of Technology, Georgia State University, and Morehouse College. The city is sprawling, but it's also full of entertainment and activities that students will enjoy.

Students come from all over to stay in Boulder. With the University of Colorado, Boulder in town, this city is a popular spot for students. It's an outdoor enthusiast's perfect base with many outdoor recreational activities in the area.

Is Atlanta or Boulder Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Atlanta and Boulder both offer decent public transit to get you around.

Public transit is mostly limited in Atlanta. For such a large city, the public transportation system is very limited. MARTA is the main transit authority and there are a few subway lines that cross the city as well as bus routes running around town.

Public transit is generally limited in Boulder. There are buses that run around town, but you really need a car to fully experience everything that the city has to offer.

Is Atlanta or Boulder a more walkable city?

Atlanta and Boulder are good when it comes to walkability.

Atlanta is a somewhat walkable city. Parts of the city are walkable, but most of the sights are spread out and require a car to access. Within neighborhoods, there are a few places that are more pedestrian-friendly such as Downtown, Midtown, Virginia Highlands, and Buckhead.

Boulder is somewhat walkable. The city has some nice walkable areas and it is very bike-friendly.

For even more information, also check out Is Atlanta Worth Visiting? and Is Boulder Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Boulder or Atlanta?

How long in Atlanta or Boulder?

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

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Atlanta than Boulder 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 Atlanta.

One day in Atlanta or Boulder?

Because Atlanta is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. This city offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

In Boulder, you'll find nightlife and live music. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. This city offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

A weekend in Atlanta or Boulder?

Because Atlanta is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Atlanta has to offer.

In Boulder, you'll find live music and food. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Boulder has to offer.

Five days in Atlanta or Boulder?

Atlanta is a great place to explore. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

Boulder is a great place to explore. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

A week in Atlanta or Boulder?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Atlanta. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Atlanta. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Boulder. Many people enjoy the shopping and nightlife when visiting Boulder. 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.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 10-Day Tours in United States of America, The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in United States of America, The Best 2-Week Tours in United States of America, and The Best 3-Week Tours in United States of America.

When comparing the travel costs between Atlanta and Boulder, we can see that Boulder 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 Atlanta Expensive? and Is Boulder Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Atlanta or Boulder?

Atlanta has a larger population, and is about 5 times larger than the population of Boulder. When comparing the sizes of Atlanta and Boulder, 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.