A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Boston vs. Vernon for Attractions, Families, Food, and Nightlife

Should you visit Boston or Vernon?

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

Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for Boston and Vernon. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.

Boston

Boston is a loyal, historic, and traditional city. As it's a big city, visitors will find plenty to do, too. Boston offers plenty of beauty for visitors. As this is a very quaint destination, you'll find it has a special atmosphere. Other popular activities here include food, shopping, and museums. See Boston travel costs.

Vernon

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

Boston and Vernon: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Numerous theater shows
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Popular beach
  • Scenic old town
  • Popular at Christmas
  • Known for Christmas markets
  • Known for its beauty
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Good public transit
  • Very walkable
  • Big city activities
  • Home to the Freedom Trail
Pros
  • Good for hiking
  • Good for couples and romance
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less family-friendly
  • Less popular with backpackers
  • Public transit not as usable
  • Less walkable


Is there more to do in Boston or Vernon?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Boston than Vernon, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Boston is better known for its museums and attractions, theatre productions, food, nightlife, music, beaches, historical sights, christmas markets, big city activities, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere, while Vernon is more popular for its hiking. Boston is more touristy than Vernon and is known for its enthusiastic sports fans, influential history, beautiful parks, and world-class universities. Also, Boston is famous for The Freedom Trail. Vernon is well known for its surrounding valley with lakes and hiking trails.

How is Boston different from Vernon?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Boston or Vernon?

Boston
Vernon

Boston is terrific for its sights and museums. Also, Vernon is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its museums and history.

You'll find many recognizable landmarks that put Boston on the map. The city itself feels like a living museum. It is famous for Faneuil Hall, the Museum of Fine Arts, the Isabelle Stewart Gardner Museum, the USS Constitution, as well as the many sites along the Freedom Trail. There are also many museums on the campuses of the world renowned universities in the city.

Vernon is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. 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 Boston or Vernon Better for Theater?

Boston
Vernon

Boston is a well-known place for its shows and theatre. However, Vernon is not a theatre destination.

Many visitors plan to see a show while visiting Boston. The city has many historic, beautifully restored theaters where you can enjoy a show. Head to the theater district for some of the most famous venues.

Vernon is not a theatre destination.

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

Boston
Vernon

Boston 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 Boston is an experience not to be missed. There are many local dishes that utilize fresh caught seafood and comfort food flavors. The cuisine also takes advantage of the city's Italian and Irish populations. Famous local foods include New England Clam Chowder, lobster rolls, and baked beans. You'll find hearty sandwiches and filling meals that warm your soul.

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 Boston or Vernon Better for Nightlife?

Boston
Vernon

Boston is a well-known place for its evening party scene. However, Vernon is not a good town for nightlife.

Boston offers plenty to do in the evening. The city is known for its breweries, craft beer, and vibrant university neighborhoods. It also hosts regular outdoor movies and world class sporting events. The nightlife scene is varied, with some areas catering to the student population and other areas focused on the professional or sport-loving crowds.

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 Boston or Vernon Better for Music?

Boston
Vernon

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

The music scene helps keep Boston active and fun. Popular music venues include Lizard Lounge, Blue Hills Bank Pavilion, and The Middle East.

Vernon is not a live music destination.

Is Boston or Vernon Better for Beaches?

Boston
Vernon

Boston is a moderate city for the beach. However, Vernon is not a beach destination.

The beach in Boston is worth checking out. There are a few urban beaches in the greater Boston area that you can explore on a nice day.

Vernon is not a beach destination.

Is Boston or Vernon Better for its Old Town?

Boston
Vernon

Boston is terrific for its historic old town charm. However, Vernon does not have a historic old town.

Boston has a unique history which comes to life in its historic area. Boston is famous for its Freedom Trail, which takes visitors around the city's rich history. The oldest parts of the city are known as Boston Proper and include the neighborhoods of Beacon Hill, Historic Downtown, the North End, and the West End.

Vernon does not have a historic old town.


Is Boston or Vernon Better for Hiking?

Boston
Vernon

Vernon is notable for the nearby hiking options. However, Boston is not a hiking destination.

Vernon is a popular spot for hiking. 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.

Boston is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Boston or Vernon?

Boston
Vernon

Both Boston and Vernon are notable shopping destinations.

Boston is a great destination for shopping. Head to Back Bay for some of the best high end shops. There are luxury brands and boutique venues that sell local art or crafts.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Vernon. There are a number of boutique shops that are fun to explore in the downtown area.

Is Boston or Vernon More Beautiful?

Boston
Vernon

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

Boston offers plenty of beauty for visitors. The history, architecture, and world renowned university campuses all give this city its unique beauty.

Vernon is not a destination known for its beauty.


Is Boston or Vernon Better for Families?

Boston
Vernon

Boston is terrific for its family-friendly activities. Also, Vernon is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

Boston is an amazing family-friendly city to visit. It's filled with history, but there are also many activities for kids who need a break from all of the historical stuff. Popular activities for all ages include the Museum of Science, the New England Aquarium, and exploring the waterfront, gardens, and parks around town.

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 Boston or Vernon Better for Couples?

Boston
Vernon

Boston and Vernon both notable destinations for a couple.

Boston is a nice destination for couples. Couples who enjoy history will enjoy exploring the city. Take a swan boat ride in the Public Garden and wander the unique route along the Freedom Trail. There are also many sporting and entertainment options around town.

Vernon makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. 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 Boston or Vernon Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Boston
Vernon

Boston is a nice place to visit for backpackers. However, Vernon is not a good town for backpackers and budget travelers.

It's common for backpackers to visit Boston. Like most larger American cities, the city has a handful of hostels to choose from.

Vernon is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. There is a hostel in town, but this isn't a popular destination for backpackers.


Is Boston or Vernon Better for Students?

Boston
Vernon

Boston is terrific for students. However, Vernon is not popular with students.

Boston is a great destination for students. It is a city of students, with a number of world renowned universities located here including Harvard University, Boston College, and MIT. Many neighborhoods are filled with students and there are many student-centered activities around town including festivals and an active nightlife scene.

Vernon is not popular with students.

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

Boston
Vernon

Boston is terrific for its public transit. However, Vernon is not a good town for times when you don't have a car.

The thorough and effecient public transit system of Boston can take you anywhere. There's the T, which is the subway, as well as a trolley, bus, and water transportation system.

Public transit is mostly limited in Vernon. There is a bus system, but it's better not to rely on it.

Is Boston or Vernon a more walkable city?

Boston
Vernon

Boston is terrific for its ease of walking around. However, Vernon is not a good town for its walkability.

It is easy to get around Boston on foot. The many parks and compact neighborhoods are best explored on foot.

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 Boston Worth Visiting? and Is Vernon Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Vernon or Boston?

How long in Boston or Vernon?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Boston and Vernon. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Boston than in Vernon. Usually, 3-5 days is a good amount of time for Boston, and 1-3 days is enough time in Vernon.

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

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

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


  • How many days in Boston or Vernon? Ideal Length of Stay
    Boston 3-5 
    Vernon 1-3

One day in Boston or Vernon?

Boston is a bustling city that offers something for everyone. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

Many travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the destination of Vernon. Hikers are also drawn to this area. One day is often enough time to do most activities.

A weekend in Boston or Vernon?

Boston is a great place to explore. Don't miss the museums, as that's what most people do. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Vernon is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Five days in Boston or Vernon?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Boston. Don't miss the museums, as that's what most people do. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. With all of its activities, you can easily fill five days here. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Vernon. 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.


A week in Boston or Vernon?

Travelers enjoy the museums and theater when visiting the loyal big city of Boston. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the quiet destination of Vernon. This town 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.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Photography Tours in United States of America, The Best Camping Tours in United States of America, The Best Coach Bus Tours in Canada, and The Best Adventure Tours to Canada.


Which place is cheaper, Vernon or Boston?

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

  • Boston Prices
    USA Prices
    Vernon Prices
    Canada Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Boston $291
    Vernon $49

The average daily cost (per person) in Boston is $291, while the average daily cost in Vernon is $49. 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 Boston and Vernon in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Boston $166
    Vernon $4.81
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Boston $332
    Vernon $9.62
Compare Hotels in Boston and Vernon

Looking for a hotel in Boston or Vernon? 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 Boston


Hotels in Vernon


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: Boston Hotel Prices and Vernon Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Boston $37
    Vernon -
Typical Local Transportation Prices in Boston

Some typical examples of transportation costs in Boston are as follows:


  • Taxi
    $35
  • Subway Daily Pass
    $9.00

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Boston

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Boston:

  • Private Departure Transfer to Boston Airport BOS: $28
  • BOS Airport Private Transfer to Boston Downtown: $37
  • Boston Logan Airport Chauffeur, Boston Airport private Transfer: $50
  • Boston Logan Airport (BOS) to Boston - Arrival Private Transfer: $61
  • Boston Airport (BOS) to Providence – Arrival Private Transfer : $70
  • Manchester–Boston Regional Airport to Manchester - Arrival Private Transfer: $75
  • Private Transfer from Flynn Cruise Port to Boston Airport (BOS): $81
  • Private Transfer from Boston Airport (BOS) to Flynn Cruise Port: $82
  • One Way Airport Transfer Service: $85
  • Boston Logan Intl Airport (BOS) to Flynn Cruise Port - Arrival Private Transfer: $94
  • Departure Private Transfer Boston to Boston Airport BOS: $97
  • Private Airport Transfer to/from Logan Airport: $99

Is it cheaper to fly into Boston or Vernon?

Prices for flights to both Vernon and Boston 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
    Boston $86
    Vernon $43

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Boston

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

  • Self Guided "The North End Pizza, Cannoli and Picnic" Solo Walking Tour : $5.50
  • Morning Walks with Salem Food Tours: $34
  • Boston Freedom Trail History and Food Tour: $39
  • Freedom Trail History and Food Tour: $39
  • Pizza Beer and Paul Revere Tour: $65
  • Boston Pizza Lovers Food & History Walking Food Tour: $69
  • North End Pizza Walking Tour with 3 Slices & Cannoli: $69
  • 2-Hour Pasta Making Cooking Class With Local Chef in Boston: $75
  • North End Food Experience with Pizza, Meats & Cheese: $75
  • Pizza, Beer, and Paul Revere Tour: $75
  • City Cruises Harbor Buffet Lunch or Dinner Cruise: $89
  • Boston’s Politically Incorrect North End Food tour: $98

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Boston $33
    Vernon -
Typical Entertainment Prices in Boston

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


  • Two Tickets to Celtics Game
    $101
  • Duck Tour
    $32

Tours and Activities in Boston

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

  • 2 Hour Boston Historical and Heritage Walking Tour: $5.00
  • Self Guided "Historic Boston Downtown Freedom Trail" Audio/GPS Walking Tour: $5.00
  • The Ghosts of Boston's Past Haunted Self-guided Tour: $5.00
  • Self-Guided Audio Tour of Boston North End: $5.75
  • Self-Guided Smartphone Ghost Walking Tour in Salem: $7.75
  • Harvard's Haunts Solo Smart Phone Guided App Ghost Walking Tour: $7.75
  • Self Guided Classic Freedom Trail Location Aware (GPS) Walking Audio Tour: $7.75
  • City History and Highlights Audio App Walking Tour: $7.99
  • Boston's Old North Church Admission with Self-Guided Audio Tour: $8.00
  • Boston Scavenger Hunt and Highlights Self-Guided Tour: $8.32
  • Harvard’s Secret Society: Exploration Game and Tour: $8.93
  • Boston Harborwalk & Tea Party Self-Guided Walking Audio Tour: $8.99

For more ideas for your next trip, check out Free Things to Do in Boston, Must-See Monuments and Memorials In Boston, and The Best Things To Do in Boston with Kids.


Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Boston $27
    Vernon $13

Sample the Local Flavors in Boston

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Boston:

  • Boston Bar Crawl Back Bay Beat Bar Craw: $15
  • Boos and Brews Haunted Pub Crawl: $29
  • Boston Haunted Pub Crawl: $35
  • Haunted Pub Crawl of Historic Pubs and Taverns: $35
  • 2 Hour Historic Pub Crawl in Boston: $35
  • Salem Booze and Brews Haunted Pub Crawl by US Ghost Adventures: $36
  • Boston Ghosts Boos and Brews Haunted Pub Crawl : $36
  • History Pub Crawl Tour Along the Freedom Trail: $56
  • Boston Freedom Trail History Pub Crawl Small-Group Tour: $60
  • Freedom Trail History Tour and Brewery Taste: $71
  • Sushi Making Class at a Local Brewery in Boston: $75
  • Sushi Making Class at a Local Distillery in Boston: $75


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Boston and Vernon, we can see that Boston 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 Boston would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Boston 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 Boston Expensive? and Is Vernon Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Boston or Vernon?

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

Both Vernon and Boston are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Boston in the summer for the beaches, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Vernon for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

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

In July, Boston usually receives more rain than Vernon. Boston gets 2.9 inches (74 mm) of rain, while Vernon receives 28 mm (1.1 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Boston 73°F (23°C) 
    Vernon 23°C (73°F)

Should I visit Boston or Vernon in the Autumn?

Both Vernon and Boston during the autumn are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Boston for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months. Furthermore, the autumn months attract visitors to Vernon because of the hiking trails and the shopping scene.

Boston is a little warmer than Vernon in the autumn. The daily temperature in Boston averages around 54°F (12°C) in October, and Vernon fluctuates around 11°C (51°F).

Boston usually gets more rain in October than Vernon. Boston gets 3.3 inches (84 mm) of rain, while Vernon receives 14 mm (0.6 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Boston 54°F (12°C) 
    Vernon 11°C (51°F)

Should I visit Boston or Vernon in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Boston and Vernon. The winter months attract visitors to Boston because of the museums, the Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine. Furthermore, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Vernon this time of year.

It's quite cold in Vernon in the winter. The weather in Boston can be very cold. In the winter, Boston is a little warmer than Vernon. Typically, the winter temperatures in Boston in January average around 29°F (-2°C), and Vernon averages at about -3°C (27°F).

In January, Boston usually receives more rain than Vernon. Boston gets 3.4 inches (87 mm) of rain, while Vernon receives 26 mm (1 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Boston 29°F (-2°C) 
    Vernon -3°C (27°F)

Should I visit Boston or Vernon in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Boston as well as Vernon. The beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty are the main draw to Boston this time of year.

In April, Boston is generally cooler than Vernon. Daily temperatures in Boston average around 48°F (9°C), and Vernon fluctuates around 12°C (53°F).

Boston usually gets more rain in April than Vernon. Boston gets 3.5 inches (89 mm) of rain, while Vernon receives 15 mm (0.6 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Boston 48°F (9°C) 
    Vernon 12°C (53°F)

Typical Weather for Vernon and Boston

Boston Vernon
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 29°F (-2°C) 3.4 inches (87 mm) -3°C (27°F) 26 mm (1 in)
Feb 30°F (-1°C) 3.7 inches (94 mm) 2°C (35°F) 14 mm (0.6 in)
Mar 38°F (4°C) 3.7 inches (95 mm) 7°C (44°F) 10 mm (0.4 in)
Apr 48°F (9°C) 3.5 inches (89 mm) 12°C (53°F) 15 mm (0.6 in)
May 58°F (15°C) 3.2 inches (82 mm) 16°C (61°F) 22 mm (0.9 in)
Jun 68°F (20°C) 3.1 inches (79 mm) 21°C (69°F) 29 mm (1.1 in)
Jul 73°F (23°C) 2.9 inches (74 mm) 23°C (73°F) 28 mm (1.1 in)
Aug 72°F (22°C) 3.2 inches (82 mm) 23°C (73°F) 30 mm (1.2 in)
Sep 64°F (18°C) 3.1 inches (79 mm) 17°C (63°F) 28 mm (1.1 in)
Oct 54°F (12°C) 3.3 inches (84 mm) 11°C (51°F) 14 mm (0.6 in)
Nov 45°F (7°C) 4.3 inches (108 mm) 4°C (39°F) 22 mm (0.9 in)
Dec 33°F (1°C) 3.9 inches (99 mm) -1°C (30°F) 33 mm (1.3 in)