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

Should you visit Dallas 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 Dallas and Vernon can help you decide which place is right for you.

Dallas

Dallas is a chic, active, and upscale city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. Other popular activities here include nightlife, food, and shopping. See Dallas travel costs.

Vernon

Vernon is a relaxing, quiet, and peaceful town. And you can't forget about the food, hiking, and shopping. See Vernon travel costs.

Dallas and Vernon: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for students
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with backpackers
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less popular with backpackers


Is there more to do in Dallas or Vernon?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Dallas. Although Dallas and Vernon are both popular with visitors, Dallas has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Dallas is more popular for its museums and attractions, food, nightlife, shopping, and big city activities, while Vernon is known for its hiking. Vernon is more touristy than Dallas and is known for its surrounding valley with lakes and hiking trails. Dallas is popular for its Tex Mex cuisine, upscale shopping venues, and cowboy culture. It is also home to the Sixth Floor Museum.

How is Dallas different from Vernon?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Dallas
Vernon

Dallas is a well-known place for its sights and museums. Also, Vernon is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its museums and history.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Dallas can be an interesting and educational experience. Museums range from historical to art and science with some of the favorites being the Dallas Contemporary Museum, the African American Museum, the Dallas Museum of Art, and the Frontiers of Flight Museum. The city is also home to the George W. Bush Presidential Library and the Nasher Sculpture Center. A must-see is the Sixth Floor Museum, which is in historic Dealey Plaza and is where Lee Harvey Oswald fired the shots that killed JFK. Today there's a museum that goes over the events of that day.

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

Dallas
Vernon

Dallas 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 Dallas is an experience not to be missed. There's a perfect combination of Texas cuisine and international flavors. You'll find Texas barbecue, Tex Mex, and steakhouses intermixed with Thai, Japanese, and Caribbean cuisine. There's also a great food truck scene and many local eateries.

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 Dallas or Vernon Better for Nightlife?

Dallas
Vernon

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

Dallas offers plenty to do in the evening. Head to East Dallas for the most active clubs with large dance floors and great music. The city also has rooftop lounges and plenty of live music as well as comedy clubs.

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 Dallas or Vernon Better for Hiking?

Dallas
Vernon

Vernon is a well-known place for the nearby hiking options. However, Dallas 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.

Dallas is not a hiking destination.


Is the Shopping Better in Dallas or Vernon?

Dallas
Vernon

Dallas 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 Dallas. You'll find a very diverse shopping scene around town, with everything from quirky local vendors to upscale fashion boutiques. There are cowboy outfitters where you can get a feel for the Texas style, but there are also posh shopping centers and local flea markets.

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 Dallas or Vernon Better for Families?

Dallas
Vernon

Dallas 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.

Dallas is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. The city is filled with families, and you'll find many kid-friendly activities around town. For some outdoor time you can visit the Rory Meyers Children's Adventure Garden or the Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden. The Dallas Zoo is a favorite for many kids and there are also a number of kid-friendly museums around town such as the Perot Museum of Nature and Science and the Dallas World Aquarium.

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 Dallas or Vernon Better for Couples?

Dallas
Vernon

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

Dallas is a very popular place to visit for couples. Head to the observation deck at Reunion Tower for spectacular views of the night skyline. The city also has many great comedy clubs and performing arts venues as well as fine dining restaurants that make for a great date night.

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

Dallas
Vernon

Dallas is a nice place to visit for its public transit. However, Vernon is not a good town for times when you don't have a car.

Dallas has a few public transit options. While it's still very much a car-centered city, the public transportation system, DART, is one of the fastest growing in the country. It includes both light rail and bus service.

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

Is Dallas or Vernon a more walkable city?

Dallas
Vernon

Dallas and Vernon both are decent when exploring on foot.

Dallas is generally not very walkable. The city is not particularly walkable, but there are several more walkable areas such as Ellum and Uptown.

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 Dallas Worth Visiting? and Is Vernon Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Vernon or Dallas?

How long in Dallas or Vernon?

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

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

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

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


  • How many days in Dallas or Vernon? Ideal Length of Stay
    Dallas 2-4 
    Vernon 1-3

One day in Dallas or Vernon?

Many travelers enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the destination of Dallas. 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 Dallas or Vernon?

Dallas 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.

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 Dallas or Vernon?

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

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 Dallas or Vernon?

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the chic destination of Dallas. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. 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 2-Week Tours from San Francisco, The Best 2-Week Tours from Los Angeles, The Best Coach Bus Tours in Canada, and The Best Adventure Tours to Canada.


Which place is cheaper, Vernon or Dallas?

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

  • Dallas Prices
    USA Prices
    Vernon Prices
    Canada Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Dallas $166
    Vernon $49

The average daily cost (per person) in Dallas is $166, 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 Dallas and Vernon in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Dallas $84
    Vernon $4.81
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Dallas $168
    Vernon $9.62
Compare Hotels in Dallas and Vernon

Looking for a hotel in Dallas 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 Dallas


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: Dallas Hotel Prices and Vernon Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Dallas $28
    Vernon -

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Dallas

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Dallas:

  • Private Departure Transfer to Dallas Fort Worth Airport DFW: $47
  • Private Arrival Transfer from DFW Airport to Dallas: $47
  • Allen or Plano to Dallas Fort Worth Airport (DFW) - Departure Private Transfer: $67
  • Dallas to Dallas Fort Worth Airport (DFW) - Departure Private Transfer: $67
  • Arrival Private Transfer Dallas Airport DAL to Dowtown Dallas by Luxury Vehicle: $83
  • Departure Private Transfer Dowtown Dallas to Dallas Airport DAL Luxury Vehicle: $83
  • Dallas Airport (DFW) to Dallas - Arrival Private Transfer: $84
  • Dallas Airport (DAL) to Dallas - Arrival Private Transfer: $90
  • Dallas to Dallas Airport (DAL) - Departure Private Transfer: $90
  • Private Transfer Fort Worth Airport DFW to Downtown Dallas by Luxury Vehicle: $92
  • Private Transfer Fort Worth Airport DFW to Downtown Fort Worth by Luxury Vehicle: $109
  • One Way DFW Airport to Hotel Private Transfer: $110

Is it cheaper to fly into Dallas or Vernon?

Prices for flights to both Vernon and Dallas 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
    Dallas $61
    Vernon $43
Typical Food Prices in Dallas

Some typical examples of dining costs in Dallas are as follows:


  • Cowboys Stadium Tour (for 2)
    $55
  • Whataburger Lunch (family of 4)
    $21

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Dallas

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

  • Dallas Food Tour with 5 Epic Food Tastings in Deep Ellum: $99
  • Downtown Dallas Holiday Lights Food Tour: $100
  • Dallas Secret Food Tour: $104
  • 5-course Walking Food Tour in Dallas : Cocktail package available: $109
  • Uptown Eats! Trolley Tour with Food Tours of America: $110

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Dallas $13
    Vernon -

Tours and Activities in Dallas

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

  • Dallas in Wonderland: A Self-Guided Walking Tour of Dallas: $15
  • Dark Dallas Crimes and Conspiracy Walking Tour: $15
  • Scavenger Hunt Adventure in Denton by Zombie Scavengers: $20
  • Unique Scavenger Hunt Experience in Irving by Zombie Scavengers: $20
  • Reunion Tower GeO-Deck General Admission Ticket: $21
  • 65 Minute JFK Assassination Walking and Van Tour: $21
  • Dallas Stars NHL Ice Hockey Game Ticket: $22
  • SEA LIFE Aquarium Grapevine Admission Ticket: $22
  • John F. Kennedy Trolley Tour in Dallas: $22
  • Dallas' Reunion Tower GeO-Deck Observation Ticket: $25
  • Dallas Scavenger Hunt Walking Tour and Game: $25
  • Sinister Strolls True Crime Walking Tour: $25

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Dallas $12
    Vernon $13

Sample the Local Flavors in Dallas

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

  • Dallas Spirits & Spirits Haunted Pub Crawl: $30
  • 1-Hour Distillery Tour & Tasting in Dallas: $40
  • Party Bike Pub Crawl in Deep Ellum and Downtown Dallas: $55
  • DIY Candle Making Class at a Local Brewery in Dallas: $55
  • Dallas Party Bike Pub Crawl in Deep Ellum: $55


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


Which is Bigger, Dallas or Vernon?

Dallas has a larger population, and is about 30 times larger than the population of Vernon. When comparing the sizes of Dallas 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 Dallas 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 Dallas or Vernon in the Summer?

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

In the summer, Dallas is a little warmer than Vernon. Typically, the summer temperatures in Dallas in July average around 88°F (31°C), and Vernon averages at about 23°C (73°F).

In July, Dallas usually receives more rain than Vernon. Dallas gets 2.4 inches (60 mm) of rain, while Vernon receives 28 mm (1.1 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Dallas 88°F (31°C) 
    Vernon 23°C (73°F)

Should I visit Dallas or Vernon in the Autumn?

Both Vernon and Dallas during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Dallas for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene. Also, many visitors come to Vernon in the autumn for the hiking trails and the shopping scene.

In October, Dallas is generally much warmer than Vernon. Daily temperatures in Dallas average around 69°F (21°C), and Vernon fluctuates around 11°C (51°F).

Dallas usually gets more rain in October than Vernon. Dallas gets 3.9 inches (98 mm) of rain, while Vernon receives 14 mm (0.6 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Dallas 69°F (21°C) 
    Vernon 11°C (51°F)

Should I visit Dallas or Vernon in the Winter?

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

Vernon can be very cold during winter. Dallas is much warmer than Vernon in the winter. The daily temperature in Dallas averages around 46°F (8°C) in January, and Vernon fluctuates around -3°C (27°F).

In January, Dallas usually receives more rain than Vernon. Dallas gets 1.8 inches (45 mm) of rain, while Vernon receives 26 mm (1 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Dallas 46°F (8°C) 
    Vernon -3°C (27°F)

Should I visit Dallas or Vernon in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Dallas as well as Vernon. Most visitors come to Dallas for the activities around the city during these months.

In the spring, Dallas is much warmer than Vernon. Typically, the spring temperatures in Dallas in April average around 68°F (20°C), and Vernon averages at about 12°C (53°F).

Dallas usually gets more rain in April than Vernon. Dallas gets 3.9 inches (98 mm) of rain, while Vernon receives 15 mm (0.6 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Dallas 68°F (20°C) 
    Vernon 12°C (53°F)

Typical Weather for Vernon and Dallas

Dallas Vernon
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 46°F (8°C) 1.8 inches (45 mm) -3°C (27°F) 26 mm (1 in)
Feb 51°F (10°C) 2.3 inches (59 mm) 2°C (35°F) 14 mm (0.6 in)
Mar 60°F (15°C) 3.2 inches (82 mm) 7°C (44°F) 10 mm (0.4 in)
Apr 68°F (20°C) 3.9 inches (98 mm) 12°C (53°F) 15 mm (0.6 in)
May 76°F (24°C) 5 inches (128 mm) 16°C (61°F) 22 mm (0.9 in)
Jun 83°F (29°C) 3.5 inches (89 mm) 21°C (69°F) 29 mm (1.1 in)
Jul 88°F (31°C) 2.4 inches (60 mm) 23°C (73°F) 28 mm (1.1 in)
Aug 87°F (31°C) 2.3 inches (58 mm) 23°C (73°F) 30 mm (1.2 in)
Sep 80°F (27°C) 3.6 inches (91 mm) 17°C (63°F) 28 mm (1.1 in)
Oct 69°F (21°C) 3.9 inches (98 mm) 11°C (51°F) 14 mm (0.6 in)
Nov 59°F (15°C) 2.4 inches (60 mm) 4°C (39°F) 22 mm (0.9 in)
Dec 50°F (10°C) 1.9 inches (48 mm) -1°C (30°F) 33 mm (1.3 in)