A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Nantucket vs. Sun Valley for Food, Families, Couples, and Resorts

Should you visit Nantucket or Sun Valley?

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 Nantucket and Sun Valley can help you decide which place is right for you.

Nantucket

Nantucket is a peaceful, upscale, and charming island. As this is a charming small town, visitors also come to explore the sights and local activities. Nantucket is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for nightlife, food, and beaches. See Nantucket travel costs.

Sun Valley

Sun Valley is a adventurous, outdoorsy, and active town. Sun Valley is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Other reasons to visit include hiking, shopping, and skiing. See Sun Valley travel costs.

Nantucket and Sun Valley: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Nantucket or Sun Valley?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Nantucket. Although Nantucket and Sun Valley are both popular with visitors, Nantucket has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Nantucket is more popular for its museums and attractions, food, beaches, historical sights, shopping, and small town charm, while Sun Valley is known for its skiing. Nantucket is popular for its pristine beaches, upscale atmosphere, and history of whaling. It is also home to Great Point Lighthouse. Sun Valley is popular for its ski resorts as well as being the home of Ernest Hemingway.

How is Nantucket different from Sun Valley?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Nantucket or Sun Valley Better for Skiing?

Sun Valley is renowned for skiing. However, Nantucket is not a skiing destination.

Sun Valley is among the world's best ski destinations. 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.

Nantucket is not a skiing destination.

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

Nantucket is a good destination for its museums and landmarks. However, Sun Valley is a town with minimal options for its historical sights.

Nantucket is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. There are several museums around town that educate visitors on the island's whaling history and maritime past.

While most people don't head to Sun Valley specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. Museums in the area include the Sun Valley Museum of Art and the Wood River Museum of History and Culture.

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

Nantucket is terrific for its restaurant scene. Also, Sun Valley is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

Eat your way through Nantucket, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. Upscale eateries where you can look out on the water make dining on this island a true experience. There are raw bars, seafood restaurants, and local cafes with elaborate salads and duck carnitas. Dishes usually use the highest quality fresh ingredients and chefs bring their "A game" with every customer.

Sun Valley has a huge number of terrific 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 Nantucket or Sun Valley Better for Nightlife?

If the nightlife is your priority, you'll find good options in both Nantucket and Sun Valley.

If you're looking for night time activities Nantucket has a few options to choose from. You'll find a number of bars and a lively singles scene in town. There's also live music and a laid back but active atmosphere in the evening.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Sun Valley. 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 Nantucket or Sun Valley Better for Resorts?

Luxury resorts are fairly comparable in Nantucket and Sun Valley.

Vacationers can choose from a number of terrific resorts in Nantucket. Luxury resorts and upscale inns offer guests a relaxed setting with oceanfront views and family-friendly activities.

Sun Valley is a popular resort destination that attracts visitors from everywhere. The most popular place to stay is Sun Valley Lodge, but there are also other small lodges and hotels in the area.

Is Nantucket or Sun Valley Better for Beaches?

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

Many people visit Nantucket for it's beautiful beaches. You'll find the calmest water at the northern beaches, and cooler water with rougher surf to the south. Many of the beaches are accessible from town, but parking can be limited. There are both public and private beaches, each with beautiful settings and relaxing vibes.

Sun Valley is not a beach destination.

Is Nantucket or Sun Valley Better for its Old Town?

Nantucket 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 Nantucket. The Historic District is filled with New England charm, cobblestone streets, and upscale boutiques. There are many great restaurants and a lot of historic character.

Sun Valley does not have a historic old town.

Is Nantucket or Sun Valley Better for Hiking?

You'll find high quality hiking in both Nantucket and Sun Valley.

Many visitors go to Nantucket for the hiking trails. The island is easy to explore on foot, and its covered with hiking trails that follow the serene coastline or take you through forests, bogs, and marshland.

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.

Is the Shopping Better in Nantucket or Sun Valley?

Nantucket is a great destination for shopping. Also, Sun Valley is still popular, but not quite as popular for its shopping opportunities.

Nantucket is an extremely popular place for shoppers. The Historic District is filled with boutiques, art galleries, and upscale shops. It's the perfect place to spend an afternoon wandering around and shopping.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Sun Valley. 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.

Is Nantucket or Sun Valley More Beautiful?

Nantucket and Sun Valley both are comparable with their high quality scenery and beauty.

Nantucket is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Natural beauty and charming character make this a picturesque destination.

The beauty of Sun Valley is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. The resort town is surrounded by impressive mountains and pristine natural beauty.

Is Nantucket or Sun Valley Better for Families?

Sun Valley is renowned for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Nantucket is not as popular, but is still a nice island for its family-friendly activities.

Sun Valley is one of the most popular family destinations. 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.

Nantucket is a very kid-friendly island. There's a calm beach that's perfect for kids as well as quaint ice cream shops and plenty of New England charm. The town is also filled with hiking and biking trails.

Is Nantucket or Sun Valley Better for Couples?

Both Nantucket and Sun Valley are first-rate destinations to visit as a couple.

For those traveling as a couple, Nantucket has plenty to offer. The New England charm, natural beauty, and relaxing coastal atmosphere make this a perfect romantic destination. There are also many romantic places to stay and great local restaurants.

Sun Valley has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. 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.

Is Nantucket or Sun Valley Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Sun Valley is a great town for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Nantucket is not known for backpackers.

Sun Valley is very popular with the backpacker crowd. There are a couple of hostels in the area and plenty of activities that appeal to the backpacker crowd.

Nantucket is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. It's known for its upscale atmosphere that isn't particularly accommodating for backpackers.

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

Sun Valley is a great town for times when you don't have a car. Also, Nantucket is not as popular, but is still a nice island for its public transit.

Public transit in Sun Valley is fairly effecient and thorough. 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.

Nantucket has a few public transit options. There are shuttle buses around the island that operate with greater frequency during the summer months.

Is Nantucket or Sun Valley a more walkable city?

Sun Valley is renowned for its walkability. Also, Nantucket is not as popular, but is still a nice island for its high level of walkability.

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

Nantucket is a very walkable island. The town is very walkable and parking can be challenging, so it's best to leave your car in the ferry parking lot.

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

Should I spend more time in Sun Valley or Nantucket?

How long in Nantucket or Sun Valley?

Both Nantucket and Sun Valley have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Sun Valley than in Nantucket. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Nantucket, and 3-7 days is enough time in Sun Valley.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Sun Valley than Nantucket 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 Nantucket or Sun Valley?

Nantucket 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 food. 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.

You'll find food and shopping around the town of Sun Valley. 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 Nantucket or Sun Valley?

Even though Nantucket 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. Many people spend a weekend here. One of the main draws to the area is the food. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this island.

You'll find shopping and skiing around the active destination of Sun Valley. 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 town offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Five days in Nantucket or Sun Valley?

Nantucket, a popular island, is full of activities for travelers. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

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

A week in Nantucket or Sun Valley?

Nantucket is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. One of the main draws to the area is the food. 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.

Sun Valley is a popular choice for travelers. One week here is typical. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Sun Valley, one week is sufficent for most. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

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 Family-Friendly Tours to United States of America, and The Best Wildlife Tours to United States of America.

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

Which is Bigger, Nantucket or Sun Valley?

Nantucket has a larger population, and is about 10 times larger than the population of Sun Valley. When comparing the sizes of Nantucket 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.