A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Lancaster vs. Whistler for Families, Attractions, Food, and Nightlife

Should you visit Lancaster or Whistler?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Lancaster or Whistler, this travel comparison, which includes costs, can help. The overall cost of travel is usually a consideration when deciding where to go next, and the cost comparison down below can help you decide based on the average prices from other travelers along with your own travel budget.

Lancaster

Lancaster is a scenic, traditional, and picturesque town. Lancaster is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for food, shopping, and museums. See Lancaster travel costs.

Whistler

Whistler is a charming, adventurous, and outdoorsy village. With fun activities and sights, this is a small town worth visiting. With stunning beauty, Whistler attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the shopping, skiing, and nightlife. See Whistler travel costs.

Lancaster and Whistler: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Lancaster or Whistler?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Whistler than Lancaster, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Whistler is better known for its skiing, nightlife, resorts, hiking, and small town charm, while Lancaster is more popular for its museums and attractions and shopping. Whistler is more touristy than Lancaster and is popular for its world renowned skiing and snowboarding. Also, Whistler is famous for Cloudraker Skybridge. Lancaster is well known for its history and long running Amish community.

How is Lancaster different from Whistler?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Lancaster or Whistler Better for Skiing?

Whistler is an amazing village to visit for skiing. However, Lancaster is not a skiing destination.

The snow ski experience you'll have in Whistler is among the best in the world. Whistler is the largest ski resort in North America. It covers a vast area that includes two peaks - Whistler and Blackcomb. The slopes are connected by lifts and gondolas and there are options for every level, from beginner to expert.

Lancaster is not a skiing destination.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Lancaster or Whistler?

Lancaster is a well-known place for its sights and museums. However, Whistler is not a good village for its museums and history.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Lancaster can be an interesting and educational experience. Filled with history and local culture, there are many educational opportunities in the area where you can learn about Amish traditions. The Amish Village has tours and unique experiences. The town also has James Buchanan's Wheatland, the Railroad Museum of Pennsylvania, the National Toy Train Museum, the Ephrata Cloister, and the National Watch & Clock Museum, among many others.

While most people don't head to Whistler specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. There is a local museum where you can learn about the areas culture and heritage.

Is the Food Better in Lancaster or Whistler? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Picking the best cuisine and restaurants between Lancaster and Whistler can be difficult as they are each superb in their own way.

Lancaster has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. You can sample authentic Pennsylvania Dutch dishes at one of the Amish restaurants in the area. Many places serve food family-style and dishes include chicken pot pie, ham balls, and pork and sauerkraut. Whoopie pies also originated in the area.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Whistler makes for a great culinary experience. There are many great restaurants and pubs that serve local dishes like Whistler herring, meatloaf, and Artic char fish. There are casual eateries as well as fine dining with upscale cuisine.

Is Lancaster or Whistler Better for Nightlife?

Whistler is a great village for its evening party scene. However, Lancaster is not known for nightlife.

The nightlife in Whistler has something for everybody. After a day on the slopes, you can enjoy the lively nightlife that includes après ski bars, nightclubs, and late night parties.

Most people don't head to Lancaster specifically for the nightlife scene, but you can find a few options. It's a small town, but you'll still find local pubs and cozy bars where you can enjoy a drink in a laid back atmosphere.

Is Lancaster or Whistler Better for Resorts?

Whistler is a great village for its luxury resorts. However, Lancaster is not a resort destination.

Whistler is a popular resort destination that attracts visitors from everywhere. There's a large selection of resorts that you can choose from. Many have pools and hot tubs and range from romantic to family-friendly.

Lancaster is not a resort destination.

Is Lancaster or Whistler Better for Hiking?

Whistler is an amazing village to visit for hiking. However, Lancaster is not a hiking destination.

Known for its hiking, Whistler draws a crowd to experience the nature and the trails. During the warmer seasons there are miles of hiking trails that take you through both Whistler and Blackcomb Mountains. Many trails are accessible by gondola and you'll find great views and stunning vistas. Trails range from short family-friendly options to strenuous and adventurous routes.

Lancaster is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Lancaster or Whistler?

Lancaster is a well-known place for shopping. Also, Whistler is not as famous, but is still a good village to visit for its shopping opportunities.

Lancaster is an extremely popular place for shoppers. Many visitors pick up hand-crafted Amish items while they're in town. Furniture and Amish quilts are particularly popular. Farmers markets and antique shopping are both unique in the area and there are also art galleries and several outlet stores that you can visit.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Whistler. The village offers great shopping where you can pick up local items or any ski gear you may have forgotten.

Is Lancaster or Whistler More Beautiful?

You'll find a similar quality of superb scenery and beauty in both Lancaster and Whistler.

With stunning beauty, Lancaster attracts visitors from all around. The countryside is beautiful, with preserved farmland, covered bridges, and beautiful gardens.

Whistler is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. The town sits in a valley that is surrounded by stunning mountains and impressive glaciers.

Is Lancaster or Whistler Better for Families?

Whistler is an amazing village to visit for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Lancaster is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its family-friendly activities.

Whistler is an amazing family-friendly village to visit. Kids will love the winter activities like skiing, dog sledding, and bobsledding. There's also an ice skating rink, climbing gym, and tons of kid-friendly restaurants.

Lancaster is a very family-friendly place to visit. In you area you'll find farms and petting zoos, amusement parks, and train rides. They can learn about a unique lifestyle at the Amish Experience or soak up the local beauty and farmland in the surrounding countryside.

Is Lancaster or Whistler Better for Couples?

Lancaster and Whistler are both superb to visit as a couple.

Lancaster is a great town if you're traveling as a couple. This region is known for it's local beauty and serene farmland, making it a relaxing and peaceful destination for couples. There are walking trails, outdoor activities, buggy rides, and a variety of dining experiences. You can also stay at a bed and breakfast or local inn.

Whistler is a very popular place to visit for couples. Couples who enjoy an adventure will love the year-round outdoor sports. There are also romantic spas, fine dining, and scenic gondola rides.

Is Lancaster or Whistler Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Whistler is a great village for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Lancaster is not known for backpackers.

Plenty of budget travelers and backpackers visit Whistler. There are several hostels in the area that are perfect for backpackers and budget travelers.

Lancaster is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. Although it's often overlooked by backpackers, the region offers a unique cultural experience.

Is Lancaster or Whistler Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Lancaster and Whistler both offer respectable public transit to get you around.

Public transit is mostly limited in Lancaster. The city has buses and several transportation options, but once you're outside of the urban core, your options are limited.

Public transit is generally limited in Whistler. There's a bus system that connects the town to other nearby neighborhoods.

Is Lancaster or Whistler a more walkable city?

Whistler is a great village for its ease of walking around. However, Lancaster is not known for its walkability.

Whistler is a very walkable destination. It's a compact town that's easy to explore on foot.

Lancaster is generally not very walkable. While the city itself has walkable areas, most visitors want to get out and explore the countryside, which requires a car.

For even more information, also check out Is Lancaster Worth Visiting? and Is Whistler Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Whistler or Lancaster?

How long in Lancaster or Whistler?

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

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Whistler than Lancaster 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 Whistler.

One day in Lancaster or Whistler?

The beautiful town of Lancaster offers food and shopping. 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.

You'll find food and shopping around the village of Whistler. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A weekend in Lancaster or Whistler?

Lancaster is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this town makes for a great vacation. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Lancaster, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

You'll find shopping and skiing around the charming destination of Whistler. Hikers are also drawn to this area. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. This village offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Five days in Lancaster or Whistler?

Lancaster is a popular choice for travelers. Five days is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

You'll find skiing and nightlife around the adventurous village of Whistler. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this village makes for a great vacation. It's also a relaxing resort destination. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this village has to offer.

A week in Lancaster or Whistler?

Lancaster is a great place to explore. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This town offers something for everyone.

Whistler is a popular choice for travelers. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. One week is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 2-Week Tours from Los Angeles, The Best Family-Friendly Tours to United States of America, The Best Contiki Tours to Canada, and The Best G Adventures Tours to Canada.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Lancaster or Whistler?

Lancaster has a larger population, and is about 5 times larger than the population of Whistler. When comparing the sizes of Lancaster and Whistler, 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 Lancaster or Whistler?

Both places have a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. As both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Lancaster or Whistler in the Summer?

Both Whistler and Lancaster during the summer are popular places to visit. The summer months attract visitors to Lancaster because of the family-friendly experiences. Also, the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Whistler this time of year.

In the summer, Lancaster is a little warmer than Whistler. Typically, the summer temperatures in Lancaster in July average around 77°F (25°C), and Whistler averages at about 18°C (64°F).

In Whistler, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Lancaster. In the summer, Lancaster often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Whistler. Lancaster gets 310 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Whistler receives 296 hours of full sun.

Lancaster usually gets more rain in July than Whistler. Lancaster gets 3.6 inches (91 mm) of rain, while Whistler receives 54 mm (2.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Lancaster or Whistler in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Lancaster and Whistler. The shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Lancaster this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Whistler for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Lancaster is generally a little warmer than Whistler. Daily temperatures in Lancaster average around 56°F (13°C), and Whistler fluctuates around 11°C (51°F).

Lancaster usually receives more sunshine than Whistler during autumn. Lancaster gets 194 hours of sunny skies, while Whistler receives 124 hours of full sun in the autumn.

Whistler receives a lot of rain in the autumn. In October, Lancaster usually receives less rain than Whistler. Lancaster gets 2.9 inches (75 mm) of rain, while Whistler receives 164 mm (6.5 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Lancaster or Whistler in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Lancaster as well as Whistler. Many travelers come to Lancaster for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Whistler in the winter for the skiing, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Whistler can get quite cold in the winter. Be prepared for some very cold days in Lancaster. Lancaster is much colder than Whistler in the winter. The daily temperature in Lancaster averages around 30°F (-1°C) in January, and Whistler fluctuates around 4°C (40°F).

In the winter, Lancaster often gets more sunshine than Whistler. Lancaster gets 153 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Whistler receives 55 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Whistler. Lancaster usually gets less rain in January than Whistler. Lancaster gets 2.8 inches (72 mm) of rain, while Whistler receives 167 mm (6.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Lancaster or Whistler in the Spring?

Both Whistler and Lancaster are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Lancaster in the spring for the natural beauty. Also, most visitors come to Whistler for the small town charm and the natural beauty during these months.

In the spring, Lancaster is a little warmer than Whistler. Typically, the spring temperatures in Lancaster in April average around 53°F (12°C), and Whistler averages at about 9°C (49°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Lancaster. Lancaster usually receives more sunshine than Whistler during spring. Lancaster gets 237 hours of sunny skies, while Whistler receives 172 hours of full sun in the spring.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Whistler. In April, Lancaster usually receives less rain than Whistler. Lancaster gets 3.2 inches (82 mm) of rain, while Whistler receives 110 mm (4.3 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Whistler and Lancaster