A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Key West vs. Sun Valley for Families, Couples, Food, and Nightlife

Should you visit Key West or Sun Valley?

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

Should I visit Key West or Sun Valley? 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.

Key West

Key West is a laid-back, quirky, and eclectic town. Don't miss this spot, as it's a charming small town with plenty of activities. Key West is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. With a quaint atmosphere, it also offers a unique feeling. It's also known for scuba diving and snorkeling, beaches, and nightlife. See Key West travel costs.

Sun Valley

Sun Valley is a outdoorsy, active, and adventurous town. The beauty of Sun Valley is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the food, hiking, and shopping. See Sun Valley travel costs.

Key West and Sun Valley: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Key West or Sun Valley?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Key West. Although Key West and Sun Valley are popular destinations, Key West has more sights and attractions for tourists. Key West is very popular for its nightlife, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, historical sights, small town charm, and quaint atmosphere, while Sun Valley attracts visitors for its skiing, museums and attractions, hiking, and shopping. Key West is more touristy than Sun Valley and is known for its festive nightlife, quirky town center, colorful personality, adrenaline-filled watersports, stunning beaches, turquoise water, and location at the southernmost point of the continental U.S. It is also well known for Duval Street. Sun Valley is famous for its ski resorts as well as being the home of Ernest Hemingway.

How is Key West different from Sun Valley?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Key West or Sun Valley Better for Skiing?

Sun Valley is renowned for snow skiing. However, Key West is not a skiing destination.

If you're an avid snow skiier, Sun Valley should be on your list. There are plenty of slopes that are accessible by lift as well as backcountry terrain for those who are more adventurous. The ski areas include Bald Mountain, which is next to Ketchum, and Dollar Mountain, by Sun Valley. Bald Mountain is best for advanced skiers and Dollar Mountain has options for beginners and intermediates.

Key West is not a skiing destination.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Key West or Sun Valley?

Sun Valley is a moderate town for its sights and museums. However, Key West does not have museums and landmarks.

Sun Valley offers a handful of options for museums and historical sights. Museums in the area include the Sun Valley Museum of Art and the Wood River Museum of History and Culture.

Key West does not have museums and landmarks.

Is the Food Better in Key West or Sun Valley? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

There are opportunities to sample the local cuisine at superb restaurants in both Key West and Sun Valley.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Key West. Head to town for local restaurants with quirky atmospheres. There are many local dishes to sample, but the town is most known for its stone crabs, conch fritters, and Mahi Mahi sandwiches. You'll also find cold drinks and waterfront dining areas.

Sun Valley has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. Many restaurants pride themselves in using local, organic, and sustainable ingredients. You'll find everything from cafes and bakeries to sushi, pizza, and Mediterranean.

Is Key West or Sun Valley Better for Nightlife?

Key West is a great destination for nightlife. Also, Sun Valley is still popular, but not quite as popular for nightlife and partying.

The people in Key West know how to have a good time. This area has some of the most lively nightlife in the Florida Keys. There are quirky bars and fun hangouts where you can spend the evening. The party starts at Mallory Square around sunset and many bars stay open well into the early hours. You can also enjoy sunset cruises or pass your time at one of the many tiki bars.

If you're looking for night time activities Sun Valley has a few options to choose from. It's a low key town with relaxing bars and breweries where you can enjoy a cold drink after a day on the slopes. It's not a party town that's high energy, but there are plenty of places where you can hang out in a mellow setting.

Is Key West or Sun Valley Better for Resorts?

Key West and Sun Valley offer a relatively similar set of superb luxury resort options.

Key West is known as a popular and fun resort destination. There are a number of high end resorts around the island, many with recognizable names such as the Hyatt and Hilton. Prices can be high, but these resorts often come with reliable luxury.

Vacationers can choose from a number of terrific resorts in Sun Valley. The most popular place to stay is Sun Valley Lodge, but there are also other small lodges and hotels in the area.

Is Key West or Sun Valley Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Key West is a good destination for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Sun Valley is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Grab a mask and fins and explore the underwater scenery in Key West. There are a number of dive shops and snorkeling excursions that leave from Key West. Like many tourist areas these days, the coral shows its damage from the crowds, but you'll likely see some barracuda or a Grouper.

Sun Valley is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Key West or Sun Valley Better for Beaches?

Key West is a great destination for its beaches. However, Sun Valley is not a beach destination.

Many people visit Key West for it's beautiful beaches. One of the best beaches in the area is Fort Zachary Taylor Historic State Park. The beach has soft sand and stunning turquoise water. As is typical in the Keys, the water stays shallow for great distances.

Sun Valley is not a beach destination.

Is Key West or Sun Valley Better for its Old Town?

Key West is a great destination for its historic old town. However, Sun Valley does not have a historic old town.

There are many historical things to see in the old town of Key West. The town has the most charming Old Town areas in the Florida Keys. Head to Mallory Square for the sunset street performers and explore the historic streets around Duval Street.

Sun Valley does not have a historic old town.

Is Key West or Sun Valley Better for Hiking?

Sun Valley is notable for the nearby hiking options. However, Key West is not a hiking destination.

Sun Valley is a popular spot for hiking. During the warmer months you'll enjoy miles of hiking trails in the area that take you by fields of wildflowers and to scenic mountain overlooks. White Cloud Trails is a relatively easy 4 mile trail that many visitors enjoy. Baker Lake and Taylor Canyon are also nice options.

Key West is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Key West or Sun Valley?

Sun Valley is a popular place for its shopping opportunities. However, Key West is a mediocre town for its shopping areas.

Sun Valley offers some nice shopping areas. While most visitors spend their time adventuring outdoors, there are also plenty of shopping options in the area. Whether you need to pick up hiking or ski gear, or you want to browse some local boutiques, you'll find shops that meet your need.

Key West has some good spots for those that want to go shopping. While it definitely has its share of gimmicky souvenir shops and t-shirt stores, there are still a number of art galleries and local shops around Key West where you can enjoy shopping.

Is Key West or Sun Valley More Beautiful?

Key West and Sun Valley are somewhat similar when it comes to the superb scenery.

The beauty of Key West is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. There are blue waters as far as the eye can see. It doesn't get much more beautiful than this.

With stunning beauty, Sun Valley attracts visitors from all around. The resort town is surrounded by impressive mountains and pristine natural beauty.

Is Key West or Sun Valley Better for Families?

Sun Valley is renowned for its family-friendly activities. Also, Key West is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

As it has a large number of activities for kids, Sun Valley is a very family-friendly destination. During the winter months there's skiing, ice skating, and other winter activities. During the warmer months families will enjoy riding the Roundhouse Express Gondola, hiking through the mountains, or horseback riding.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Key West. Families that enjoy snorkeling, aquariums, water sports, and exploring new places will enjoy visiting this part of the Florida Keys. There are many ways to get out on the water from kayaking and snorkeling to glass bottom boat tours and sunset cruises. There are also many kid-friendly beaches in the area. The town can have a party atmosphere, but it's not hard to find a more family-friendly area where everyone can have fun.

Is Key West or Sun Valley Better for Couples?

Sun Valley is renowned for its romantic activities. Also, Key West is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for couples.

Sun Valley makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. Couples who enjoy winter sports and outdoor activities will love a romantic getaway to the area. There's also a charming downtown area that has great restaurants. In the surrounding countryside there's plenty of spectacular hikes that couples will enjoy as well.

Key West makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. From Mallory Square to the beautiful nearby parks, Key West makes a wonderful, romantic destination. Whether it's your honeymoon, an anniversary, or simply a couples' retreat, Key West is a great option. You can sip wine on a sunset cruise or dine at one of the many character-filled restaurants in town. If you are looking for a party, it's not hard to find, but if you want a more laid back holiday, that's also possible.

Is Key West or Sun Valley Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Sun Valley is notable for backpackers. However, Key West is a mediocre town for backpackers and budget travelers.

Sun Valley is a great town to visit for backpackers. There are a couple of hostels in the area and plenty of activities that appeal to the backpacker crowd.

Key West is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. Key West is a pretty expensive destination, but there are Airbnbs and even a hostel or two that cater to budget backpackers.

Is Key West or Sun Valley Better for Students?

Key West is a great destination for students. However, Sun Valley is not popular with students.

Many students visit Key West. It's a great spring break destination with a quirky personality and many great activities.

Sun Valley is not popular with students.

Is Key West or Sun Valley Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Sun Valley is notable for its public transit. However, Key West is a mediocre town for times when you don't have a car.

Public transit in Sun Valley can get you to some places easily. There are free shuttle buses that run through Wood River Valley including connections between the Village and Dollar and Bald Mountains. It's also connected to Ketchum and Elkhorn Springs.

Public transit is quite limited in Key West. Public transportation in Key West is limited to a few buses.

Is Key West or Sun Valley a more walkable city?

Sun Valley is renowned for its high level of walkability. Also, Key West is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its ease of walking around.

It is easy to get around Sun Valley on foot. It's easy to walk to almost anything you need if you stay at a conveniently located hotel.

Key West is a somewhat walkable town. The town is the most walkable part of the Florida Keys. The area around Mallory Square and Duval Street is the most pedestrian friendly.

For even more information, also check out Is Key West Worth Visiting? and Is Sun Valley Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Sun Valley or Key West?

How long in Key West or Sun Valley?

Both Key West and Sun Valley have a number of activities to choose from. In our opinion, Sun Valley has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Sun Valley than Key West. In general, 5-7 days is a good amount of time for Key West, and 3-7 days is enough time in Sun Valley.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Sun Valley than Key West 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 Sun Valley.

One day in Key West or Sun Valley?

With scuba diving and snorkeling and nightlife around the eclectic town of Key West, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

The beautiful town of Sun Valley offers nightlife 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 Key West or Sun Valley?

With nightlife and food around the destination of Key West, there's plenty to do. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. It offers something for everyone. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything.

Sun Valley is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. 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 Key West or Sun Valley?

Key West, a popular town, is full of activities for travelers. This is a popular place to visit for five days. Visiting the old town is also a must. In five days, you should have a good grasp of this town. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Sun Valley 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 Sun Valley, five days is sufficent for most. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A week in Key West or Sun Valley?

Key West is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have one week, this town makes for a great vacation. One week should give you a good understanding of everything this town has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Sun Valley 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 Sun Valley has to offer. This town offers something for everyone.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Train & Rail Tours in United States of America, The Best Sightseeing Tours in United States of America, The Best Cruise Tours and Packages in United States of America, and The Best Cultural Tours in United States of America.

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

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Key West Expensive? and Is Sun Valley Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Key West or Sun Valley?

Key West has a larger population, and is about 20 times larger than the population of Sun Valley. When comparing the sizes of Key West and Sun Valley, 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.