A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Cincinnati vs. Sedona for Couples, Attractions, Food, and Families

Should you visit Cincinnati or Sedona?

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

Should I visit Cincinnati or Sedona? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

Cincinnati

Cincinnati is a blue collar, authentic, and hard-working city. Visitors also love the museums, nightlife, and food. See Cincinnati travel costs.

Sedona

Sedona is a scenic, striking, and desert town. As this is a charming small town, visitors also come to explore the sights and local activities. The famous beauty of Sedona is one of the main draws. And you can't forget about the hiking, shopping, and museums. See Sedona travel costs.

Cincinnati and Sedona: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for shopping
  • Less popular with couples
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Nice resorts
  • Scenic old town
  • Good for hiking
  • Fun shopping
  • Known for its beauty
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Small town charm
  • Impressive beauty


Is there more to do in Cincinnati or Sedona?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Sedona than Cincinnati, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Sedona is better known for its food, resorts, historical sights, hiking, shopping, small town charm, and impressive beauty, while Cincinnati is more popular for its museums and attractions. Sedona is more touristy than Cincinnati and is popular for its stargazing, desert setting, and yoga retreats. Also, Sedona is famous for Red Rock Crossing Park. Cincinnati is well known for its breweries and down-to-earth personality.

How is Cincinnati different from Sedona?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Cincinnati or Sedona?

Cincinnati
Sedona

Cincinnati is great for its historical sights. Also, Sedona is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its sights and museums.

Cincinnati offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. You'll find both traditional and quirky museums around town. For outside-the-box, check out the American Sign Museum or the Behringer-Crawford Museum. Art museums include the Cincinnati Art Museum, the Contemporary Arts Center, and the Taft Museum of Art. Other popular museums include the Cincinnati Reds Hall of Fame, the National Underground Railroad Freedom Center, and the Cincinnati Museum Center at Union Terminal.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Sedona. The Sedona Heritage Museum offers a glimpse into the history and culture of the area. There are also many galleries around town.


Is the Food Better in Cincinnati or Sedona? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Cincinnati
Sedona

Sedona is well known for its restaurant scene. Also, Cincinnati is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Sedona. It's grown into a foodie destination with local restaurants that pride themselves on using local ingredients. Mexican food is common but you'll also find cafes, classic American food, and other international options.

Cincinnati is becoming an appealing option for foodies. Mixed in with the standard chain and fast food options, you'll find some local restaurants that serve up the iconic Midwestern favorites. For a taste of the town, try Cincinnati chili, barbecue ribs, and a corned beef Reuben.

Is Cincinnati or Sedona Better for Nightlife?

Cincinnati
Sedona

Party-goers will find similar levels of energy in Cincinnati and Sedona.

Cincinnati has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. The nightlife scene is diverse and includes music venues, breweries, and nightclubs. In addition to the city's downtown, you'll find trendy places to hang out in the Over-the-Rhine neighborhood. Breweries are popular in the city, in part because of its German roots.

If you're looking for night time activities Sedona has a few options to choose from. There are bars, live music venues, and even a casino in town. Breweries are popular and there are also upscale wine bars.

Is Cincinnati or Sedona Better for Resorts?

Cincinnati
Sedona

Sedona is well known for its resorts. However, Cincinnati is not a resort destination.

Sedona is known as a popular and fun resort destination. Upscale resorts with spas, pools, and other amenities offer the perfect backdrop for a desert vacation.

Cincinnati is not a resort destination.


Is Cincinnati or Sedona Better for its Old Town?

Cincinnati
Sedona

Sedona is a popular place for its old town. However, Cincinnati does not have a historic old town.

Many people head to Sedona to see the old town. Traditional architecture and historic charm give downtown Sedona a lot of character.

Cincinnati does not have a historic old town.

Is Cincinnati or Sedona Better for Hiking?

Cincinnati
Sedona

Sedona is well known for its hiking experiences. However, Cincinnati is not a hiking destination.

You'll find a nice variety of hiking trails around Sedona. It's red rock cliffs offer the perfect setting for dramatic hikes and breathtaking views. The colors are most impressive at sunrise and sunset and some of the most famous landmarks include Airport Mesa, Cathedral Rock, Bell Rock and Boynton Canyon.

Cincinnati is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Cincinnati or Sedona?

Cincinnati
Sedona

Sedona is a world-class destination for its shopping opportunities. Also, Cincinnati is still popular, but not quite as popular for its shopping areas.

The abundance of shops in Sedona make it a world-class shopping destination. It's filled with local artisan shops and art galleries that highlight the region's beauty. Head to Uptown Sedona for some of the best boutiques. You should also check out the Tlaquepaque Arts and Crafts Village, the Sedona Art Center, and Hozho Distinctive Shops and Galleries.

Cincinnati has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. There are large shopping malls and retail outlets. You'll also find local boutiques in the Montgomery or Mariemont areas.


Is Cincinnati or Sedona More Beautiful?

Cincinnati
Sedona

Sedona is a world-class destination for its scenery and beauty. However, Cincinnati is not a destination known for its beauty.

The famous beauty of Sedona is one of the main draws. The surrounded countryside is filled with dramatic desert landscapes and striking red cliffs.

Cincinnati is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Cincinnati or Sedona Better for Families?

Cincinnati
Sedona

Sedona is well known for its family-friendly activities. Also, Cincinnati is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

Sedona is a very kid-friendly town. There are impressive parks and fun outdoor activities for the whole family. Head to Slide Rock State Park where your kids can enjoy a natural waterslide. There's also the Out of Africa Wildlife Zoo as well as a canyon railroad.

Cincinnati offers lots of family activities. There's a surprising number of kid-friendly activities around town like the Cincinnati Zoo, the Cincinnati Museum Center, Newport Aquarium, and Smale Riverfront Park.

Is Cincinnati or Sedona Better for Couples?

Cincinnati
Sedona

Sedona is a world-class destination for its romantic activities. However, Cincinnati is not particularly known for couples.

Sedona makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. Stargazing in the evening or picnicking in a park during the day. There are countless romantic activities that couples can enjoy. The area is filled with striking natural beauty that is at its best during sunset. Couples will also enjoy fine dining and a variety of outdoor activities.

Cincinnati is not always the best place to visit for a couple. If you do find yourself in town for a few days, there are several good restaurants and a number of music venues that can keep the visit fun and entertaining.


Is Cincinnati or Sedona Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Cincinnati
Sedona

Cincinnati and Sedona are notable places to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Cincinnati. There are actually a couple of hostels in town for backpackers or students.

Sedona is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. You'll find campgrounds, RV parks, and motels in the area, but no real hostels.

Is Cincinnati or Sedona Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Cincinnati
Sedona

Cincinnati is a popular place for times when you don't have a car. However, Sedona is not a good destination for its public transit.

While Cincinnati offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There are two bus systems around town - the METRO and TANK bus systems. There's also a streetcar that travels through the downtown.

Public transit is generally limited in Sedona. Verde Shuttle offers shuttle routes through town.

Is Cincinnati or Sedona a more walkable city?

Cincinnati
Sedona

Cincinnati is great for its high level of walkability. Also, Sedona is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its ease of walking around.

Cincinnati is a very walkable city. There are several surprisingly walkable areas, particularly downtown and the nearby neighborhoods.

Sedona is a somewhat walkable city. If you stay in Uptown Sedona, then the area is walkable, but if you're planning to stay further away then you'll need to have a car.


For even more information, also check out Is Cincinnati Worth Visiting? and Is Sedona Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Sedona or Cincinnati?

How long in Cincinnati or Sedona?

In either Cincinnati or Sedona, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Sedona than Cincinnati because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 1-2 days is a good amount of time for Cincinnati, and 3-5 days is enough time in Sedona.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Sedona than Cincinnati 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 Sedona.


  • How many days in Cincinnati or Sedona? Ideal Length of Stay
    Cincinnati 1-2 
    Sedona 3-5

One day in Cincinnati or Sedona?

Many travelers enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the destination of Cincinnati. One day is often enough time to do most activities.

Sedona might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. Anyone can find something fun to do here. One of the main draws to the area is the shopping. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Cincinnati or Sedona?

Cincinnati 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.

Even though Sedona is a small town, it has plenty of activities to choose from. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. It offers something for everyone. One of the main draws to the area is the shopping. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything.

Five days in Cincinnati or Sedona?

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

Sedona, a popular town, is full of activities for travelers. This is a popular place to visit for five days. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. In five days, you should have a good grasp of this town. Your budget might influence how long you stay.


A week in Cincinnati or Sedona?

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the blue collar destination of Cincinnati. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

Sedona is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. One of the main draws to the area is the shopping. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Tours Under $1000 in United States of America, The Best Luxury Tours to United States of America, The Best Tours for Seniors to United States of America, and The Best Contiki Tours to United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Sedona or Cincinnati?

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

  • Cincinnati Prices
    USA Prices
    Sedona Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Cincinnati $223
    Sedona $200

The average daily cost (per person) in Cincinnati is $223, while the average daily cost in Sedona is $200. 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 Cincinnati and Sedona in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Cincinnati $102
    Sedona $93
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Cincinnati $204
    Sedona $186
Compare Hotels in Cincinnati and Sedona

Looking for a hotel in Cincinnati or Sedona? 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 Cincinnati


Hotels in Sedona


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: Cincinnati Hotel Prices and Sedona Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Cincinnati $25
    Sedona $40

Is it cheaper to fly into Cincinnati or Sedona?

Prices for flights to both Sedona and Cincinnati 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
    Cincinnati $95
    Sedona $83

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Sedona

For Sedona, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • The VIP Experience, Chuck Wagon Dinner and Show Tickets: $135
  • Sedona/Flagstaff: Grand Canyon Day Trip with Dinner & Sunset: $252

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Cincinnati $26
    Sedona $19

Typical Entertainment Prices in Sedona

For Sedona, here are some examples of average entertainment and activity prices from previous travelers:


  • Red Rock Fantasy Light Show (for 2)
    $10

Tours and Activities in Sedona

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Sedona.

  • Sedona & Red Rock State Park Self-Guided Driving Audio Tour: $15
  • Sedona, Arizona Self-Guided Audio Tour: $16
  • Grand Canyon and Sedona Self-Guided Driving Tour Bundle: $22
  • Jerome Scavenger Hunt Walking Tour and Game: $25
  • Sedona Boynton Canyon Trolley Tour: $26
  • From Boynton Canyon Trolley Tour: $28
  • Out of Africa Wildlife Park Admission Ticket: $43
  • Cemetery Ghost Adventure Cottonwood, Az: $45
  • Hi-Points Van Tour: $50
  • Sedona Aura Cleansing Tour: $55
  • Sightseeing Highlights Tour of Sedona: $63
  • The Magic of Sedona Highlights Tour: $63

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Cincinnati $11
    Sedona $13

Sample the Local Flavors in Sedona

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

  • Bliss - Sedona’s Most Luxurious Wine Tour - Lunch Included!: $115
  • Sedona-Jerome Scenic Vortex, Wine Tasting Grand Tour. See It All!: $199
  • 4 Hours Private Wine Tour in Sedona: $205
  • The Classic Sedona Wine Tour: $219
  • Voted Best in Sedona-Private Wine Tour of Vortex, Wine & Shopping: $225
  • Private Wine Tour in Sedona, Arizona: $275


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


Which is Bigger, Cincinnati or Sedona?

Cincinnati has a larger population, and is about 30 times larger than the population of Sedona. When comparing the sizes of Cincinnati and Sedona, 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.