A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Edmonton vs. Beaver Creek for Families, Food, Couples, and Nightlife

Should you visit Edmonton or Beaver Creek?

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 Edmonton and Beaver Creek can help you decide which place is right for you.

Edmonton

Edmonton is a cultural, authentic, and friendly city. Other reasons to visit include nightlife, shopping, and museums. See Edmonton travel costs.

Beaver Creek

Beaver Creek is a charming, active, and adventurous town. It's also known for skiing, food, and hiking. See Beaver Creek travel costs.

Edmonton and Beaver Creek: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good for couples and romance
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for food
  • Less family-friendly
  • Less popular with backpackers
  • Less walkable
Pros
  • Popular for skiing
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Nice resorts
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Very walkable
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less popular with backpackers


Is there more to do in Edmonton or Beaver Creek?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Beaver Creek. Although Edmonton and Beaver Creek are both popular with visitors, Beaver Creek has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Beaver Creek is more popular for its skiing, theatre productions, food, resorts, and hiking, while Edmonton is known for its museums and attractions, nightlife, and shopping. Beaver Creek is more touristy than Edmonton and is popular for its skiing and charming atmosphere It is also home to Beaver Creek Golf Club. Edmonton is popular for its many festivals and lively personality.

How is Edmonton different from Beaver Creek?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Edmonton or Beaver Creek Better for Skiing?

Edmonton
Beaver Creek

Beaver Creek is an unbeatable place for snow skiing. However, Edmonton is not a skiing destination.

Beaver Creek is among the world's best ski destinations. Beaver Creek Ski Resort is a top ski destination with 26 lifts and 149 different trails. It climbs to an elevation of 11,440 feet and the village is filled with ski-in/ski-out accommodation. There's also an excellent ski school.

Edmonton is not a skiing destination.


Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Edmonton or Beaver Creek?

Edmonton
Beaver Creek

Edmonton is a great city for its historical sights. However, Beaver Creek does not have museums and landmarks.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Edmonton can be an interesting and educational experience. You'll find a number of good museums around town such as the Royal Alberta Museum, Muttart Conservatory, the Alberta Aviation Museum, and the Art Gallery of Alberta.

Beaver Creek does not have museums and landmarks.

Is Edmonton or Beaver Creek Better for Theater?

Edmonton
Beaver Creek

Beaver Creek is not a good place to visit for theatre. However, Edmonton is not a theatre destination.

Beaver Creek has a few theater choices. There are a couple of art galleries around town.

Edmonton is not a theatre destination.

Is the Food Better in Edmonton or Beaver Creek? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Edmonton
Beaver Creek

Beaver Creek is a well-known place for its local cuisine and restaurants. However, Edmonton is not a good city for its restaurants.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Beaver Creek makes for a great culinary experience. There are many great dining options where you can enjoy a meal after working up an appetite on the slopes. The cuisine has many mountain classics as well as fine dining and more casual restaurants.

You'll find the standard options when it comes to food in Edmonton. You'll find a mix of casual cafes, international eateries, and more upscale dining options.


Is Edmonton or Beaver Creek Better for Nightlife?

Edmonton
Beaver Creek

Edmonton is a nice place to visit for nightlife. However, Beaver Creek is not known for nightlife and partying.

If you're looking for night time activities Edmonton has a few options to choose from. There's a mix of nightclubs, bars, and breweries around town. Head to Jasper Avenue for the high end clubs or check out a live show at one of the active theaters around town.

Most people don't head to Beaver Creek specifically for the nightlife scene, but you can find a few options. You won't find a wild nightlife scene, but most of the activities center around the Vilar Performing Arts Center.

Is Edmonton or Beaver Creek Better for Resorts?

Edmonton
Beaver Creek

Beaver Creek is very good for its resorts. However, Edmonton is not a resort destination.

Beaver Creek has a handful of resorts to choose from. There are many resorts in the area including the Westin and the Hyatt.

Edmonton is not a resort destination.

Is Edmonton or Beaver Creek Better for Hiking?

Edmonton
Beaver Creek

Beaver Creek is a well-known place for the nearby hiking options. However, Edmonton is not a hiking destination.

Beaver Creek is a popular spot for hiking. The surrounding countryside is filled with trails that take you through flowered meadows, along scenic ridgelines, and to the top of dramatic peaks. During the warmer months, hiking is a wonderful way to enjoy the area.

Edmonton is not a hiking destination.


Is the Shopping Better in Edmonton or Beaver Creek?

Edmonton
Beaver Creek

Edmonton is a great city for shopping. Also, Beaver Creek is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its shopping opportunities.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Edmonton. The city is home to the West Edmonton Mall, which is the largest shopping mall in Canada, and among the largest in the world. The mall includes hundreds of shops, restaurants, a hotel, ice rink, movie theaters, an aquarium, and Galaxyland, which is one of the largest indoor amusement parks in the world. The mall is divided into themed sections that represent iconic places from around the world such as Europa Boulevard and Bourbon Street.

Beaver Creek offers some nice shopping areas. The village has pedestrian streets that are lined with fashion boutiques, jewelry stores, sporting equipment stores, and art galleries.

Is Edmonton or Beaver Creek Better for Families?

Edmonton
Beaver Creek

Beaver Creek is an unbeatable place for its family-friendly activities. Also, Edmonton is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

Beaver Creek is one of the most popular family destinations. This is one of the most kid-friendly ski resorts in the country. There's a ski and snowboard school where kids can enjoy private or group lessons as well as other fun activities for kids. There are also many family-friendly restaurants in the area.

Edmonton is a family-friendly city. Many families live in town so if you're visiting for a few days you'll find plenty to do with kids. Most of the activities are concentrated in the downtown areas and along the south side of the North Saskatchewan River. The whole family will enjoy a visit to Telus World of Science. There's also the Edmonton Valley Zoo, the Alberta Aviation Museum, and Galaxyland, as well as many other activities.

Is Edmonton or Beaver Creek Better for Couples?

Edmonton
Beaver Creek

Beaver Creek is a well-known place for romance. Also, Edmonton is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its romantic activities.

Beaver Creek is a very popular place to visit for couples. There are romantic resorts nearby as well as great adventure sports, skiing, snowboarding, and a beautiful setting.

Edmonton makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. There's a good theater scene, so you can enjoy dinner and a show. There are also quaint cafes, mellow breweries, and plenty of cultural activities like art museums.


Is Edmonton or Beaver Creek Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Edmonton
Beaver Creek

Both Edmonton and Beaver Creek offer good public transit options.

Edmonton has a few public transit options. The city has both bus and light rail systems.

Beaver Creek has some public transit options. There free transportation that's offered by Village Transportation.

Is Edmonton or Beaver Creek a more walkable city?

Edmonton
Beaver Creek

Beaver Creek is an unbeatable place for its walkability. Also, Edmonton is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its high level of walkability.

It is easy to get around Beaver Creek on foot. It's a quaint little village that is very walkable.

Edmonton is a somewhat walkable place. There are parts of the city that are very walkable.

For even more information, also check out Is Edmonton Worth Visiting? and Is Beaver Creek Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Beaver Creek or Edmonton?

How long in Edmonton or Beaver Creek?

Both Edmonton and Beaver Creek have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Beaver Creek than in Edmonton. Usually, 1-2 days is a good amount of time for Edmonton, and 3-7 days is enough time in Beaver Creek.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Beaver Creek than Edmonton 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 Beaver Creek.


  • How many days in Edmonton or Beaver Creek? Ideal Length of Stay
    Edmonton 1-2 
    Beaver Creek 3-7

One day in Edmonton or Beaver Creek?

In Edmonton, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this friendly city offers. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. In one day, you should have a good grasp of this city.

The town of Beaver Creek offers skiing and food. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.


A weekend in Edmonton or Beaver Creek?

Edmonton is a fun place to experience. 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.

Beaver Creek is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. 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 a weekend exploring. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Edmonton or Beaver Creek?

You'll find nightlife and shopping around the cultural destination of Edmonton. 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.

Beaver Creek is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. It's no surprise that skiing is why people visit. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Beaver Creek, five days is sufficent for most. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A week in Edmonton or Beaver Creek?

Edmonton is a popular place to visit. 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.

Beaver Creek is a great place to explore. It's no surprise that skiing is why people visit. It is common to spend one week here. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One week is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Beaver Creek has to offer. This town offers something for everyone.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Contiki Tours to Canada, The Best G Adventures Tours to Canada, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Los Angeles, and The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from New York City.


Which place is cheaper, Beaver Creek or Edmonton?

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

  • Edmonton Prices
    Canada Prices
    Beaver Creek Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Edmonton $191
    Beaver Creek $378

The average daily cost (per person) in Edmonton is $191, while the average daily cost in Beaver Creek is $378. 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 Edmonton and Beaver Creek in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Edmonton $101
    Beaver Creek $203
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Edmonton $202
    Beaver Creek $406
Compare Hotels in Edmonton and Beaver Creek

Looking for a hotel in Edmonton or Beaver Creek? 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 Edmonton


Hotels in Beaver Creek


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: Edmonton Hotel Prices and Beaver Creek Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Edmonton $79
    Beaver Creek $30

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Edmonton

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Edmonton:

  • Edmonton Airport (YEG) to Edmonton - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $241
  • Edmonton to Edmonton Airport (YEG) - Departure Private Transfer: $121
  • Private Transfer from Edmonton to Edmonton Airport (YEG): $121
  • Edmonton Airport (YEG) to Edmonton - Arrival Private Transfer: $121
  • Private Transfer from Edmonton Airport (YEG) to Edmonton Hotels: $121

Is it cheaper to fly into Edmonton or Beaver Creek?

Prices for flights to both Beaver Creek and Edmonton 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
    Edmonton $27
    Beaver Creek $146
Typical Food Prices in Edmonton

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


  • Snacks
    $7.26

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Edmonton $91
    Beaver Creek $53

Tours and Activities in Edmonton

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

  • 1-Hour Edmonton River Valley Segway Tour: $44
  • Edmonton City Highlights 2 Hour E-Scooter Tour: $93
  • Edmonton City Highlights 3 Hour Bike Tour, E-Bike Upgrade Avail.: $99
  • Edmonton City Highlights 3 Hour Walking Tour | Gratuity-Based: $4.00
  • Edmonton Food Bike Tour: $146
  • Edmonton Food Walk Tour: $102
  • Edmonton Oilers Ice Hockey Game Ticket at Rogers Place: $49
  • Edmonton River Valley 60-Minute Segway Adventure: $44
  • Edmonton River Valley 90-Minute Segway Adventure: $62
  • Edmonton Self Guided Audio Experience: $9.00
  • 3-Hour City Highlights Walking Tour With Guide: $4.02
  • City Bike Tour, Highlights and River Valley: $77

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Edmonton -
    Beaver Creek $35

Sample the Local Flavors in Edmonton

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Edmonton:

  • Edmonton Brewery Tour (10 person minimum group): $103


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Edmonton and Beaver Creek, we can see that Beaver Creek is more expensive. And not only is Edmonton much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Edmonton would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Edmonton 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 Beaver Creek would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Beaver Creek than you might in Edmonton.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Edmonton Expensive? and Is Beaver Creek Expensive?.