A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Nantucket vs. Vernon for Food, Couples, Hiking, and Families

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

Nantucket

Nantucket is a charming, serene, and peaceful island. This is a great small town that is just waiting to be explored. With stunning beauty, Nantucket attracts visitors from all around. Other popular activities here include beaches, hiking, and shopping. See Nantucket travel costs.

Vernon

Vernon is a peaceful, relaxing, and quiet town. Other reasons to visit include museums, food, and hiking. See Vernon travel costs.

Nantucket and Vernon: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Nice resorts
  • Popular beach
  • Scenic old town
  • Good for hiking
  • Known for its beauty
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Very walkable
  • Small town charm
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with backpackers
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for food
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less popular with couples
  • Less popular with backpackers
  • Less walkable


Is there more to do in Nantucket or Vernon?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Nantucket than Vernon, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Nantucket is more touristy than Vernon and is popular for its pristine beaches, upscale atmosphere, and history of whaling. Also, Nantucket is famous for Great Point Lighthouse. Vernon is well known for its surrounding valley with lakes and hiking trails.

How is Nantucket different from Vernon?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Nantucket
Vernon

Spend time exploring the notable sights and museums in either Nantucket or Vernon.

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.

Vernon offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. 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 Nantucket or Vernon? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Nantucket
Vernon

Nantucket is terrific for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Vernon is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its restaurants.

Known for it's food and restaurant scene, Nantucket is always at the top of any foodie's travel list. 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.

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 Nantucket or Vernon Better for Nightlife?

Nantucket
Vernon

Nantucket is a nice place to visit for its evening party scene. However, Vernon is not a good town for nightlife.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Nantucket. 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.

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 Nantucket or Vernon Better for Resorts?

Nantucket
Vernon

Nantucket is a well-known place for its resorts. However, Vernon is not a resort destination.

Nantucket is a popular resort destination that attracts visitors from everywhere. Luxury resorts and upscale inns offer guests a relaxed setting with oceanfront views and family-friendly activities.

Vernon is not a resort destination.


Is Nantucket or Vernon Better for Beaches?

Nantucket
Vernon

Nantucket is a well-known place for the beach. However, Vernon is not a beach destination.

You'll have a great beach vacation in Nantucket. 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.

Vernon is not a beach destination.

Is Nantucket or Vernon Better for its Old Town?

Nantucket
Vernon

Nantucket is a well-known place for its historic old town charm. However, Vernon does not have a historic old town.

Many visitors go to Nantucket to see the historical old town. 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.

Vernon does not have a historic old town.

Is Nantucket or Vernon Better for Hiking?

Nantucket
Vernon

You'll find excellent hiking in both Nantucket and Vernon.

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.

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.


Is the Shopping Better in Nantucket or Vernon?

Nantucket
Vernon

Nantucket 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 Nantucket. 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.

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 Nantucket or Vernon More Beautiful?

Nantucket
Vernon

Nantucket is a well-known place for its scenery and beauty. However, Vernon is not a destination known for its beauty.

With stunning beauty, Nantucket attracts visitors from all around. Natural beauty and charming character make this a picturesque destination.

Vernon is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Nantucket or Vernon Better for Families?

Nantucket
Vernon

Nantucket 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.

Nantucket is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. 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.

Vernon is a family-friendly island. 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 Nantucket or Vernon Better for Couples?

Nantucket
Vernon

Nantucket is terrific for couples. Also, Vernon is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for romance.

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

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

Nantucket
Vernon

Nantucket 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.

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

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

Is Nantucket or Vernon a more walkable city?

Nantucket
Vernon

Nantucket is a well-known place for its ease of walking around. However, Vernon is not a good town for its walkability.

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

Vernon is generally not a very walkable island. You'll really want to have a car to make the most of your time here.


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

Should I spend more time in Vernon or Nantucket?

How long in Nantucket or Vernon?

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

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

Couples should spend more time in Nantucket than Vernon. 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 Nantucket 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 Nantucket.


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

One day in Nantucket or Vernon?

Nantucket might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. Hikers are also drawn to this area. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

You'll find shopping and museums around the town of Vernon. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One day is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Vernon has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A weekend in Nantucket or Vernon?

Nantucket is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. Don't miss the food, as that's what most people do. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

You'll find museums and food around the peaceful destination of Vernon. Hikers are also drawn to this area. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this town has to offer. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Five days in Nantucket or Vernon?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Nantucket. Don't miss the food, as that's what most people do. 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.

Travelers enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the quiet town of Vernon. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.


A week in Nantucket or Vernon?

Nantucket is a small town, so it's a great destination if you're short on time. This island 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.

Vernon is a popular choice for travelers. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. 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 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 Nantucket?

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

  • Nantucket Prices
    USA Prices
    Vernon Prices
    Canada Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Nantucket $409
    Vernon $49

The average daily cost (per person) in Nantucket is $409, 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 Nantucket and Vernon in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Nantucket $237
    Vernon $4.81
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Nantucket $474
    Vernon $9.62
Compare Hotels in Nantucket and Vernon

Looking for a hotel in Nantucket 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 Nantucket


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: Nantucket Hotel Prices and Vernon Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Nantucket $47
    Vernon -

Is it cheaper to fly into Nantucket or Vernon?

Prices for flights to both Vernon and Nantucket 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
    Nantucket $141
    Vernon $43

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Nantucket $34
    Vernon -

Tours and Activities in Nantucket

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Nantucket.

  • Beyond the Cobblestones Self Guided Audio Tour of Nantucket: $9.99
  • Beyond the Cobblestones Self Guided Walking Tour of Nantucket: $9.99
  • Nantucket Coast to Coast Self-Guided Biking or Driving Tour: $13
  • Discover Nantucket Self-Guided Biking or Driving Tour: $13
  • Historical Landmarks Sightseeing Bus Tour: $53
  • Historical Tour of Nantucket: $57
  • Downtown Walking Tour: $120
  • Guided Bike Tour: $160
  • Guided Scenic Island Driving Tour: $160

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Nantucket $35
    Vernon $13


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Nantucket and Vernon, we can see that Nantucket 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 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 Vernon.

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


Which is Bigger, Nantucket or Vernon?

Vernon has a larger population, and is about 3 times larger than the population of Nantucket. When comparing the sizes of Nantucket 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 Nantucket or Vernon?

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 Nantucket or Vernon in the Summer?

Both Vernon and Nantucket during the summer are popular places to visit. The beaches, the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Nantucket this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Vernon for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Nantucket is generally cooler than Vernon. Daily temperatures in Nantucket average around 68°F (20°C), and Vernon fluctuates around 23°C (73°F).

Nantucket usually gets more rain in July than Vernon. Nantucket gets 3.8 inches (96 mm) of rain, while Vernon receives 28 mm (1.1 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Nantucket 68°F (20°C) 
    Vernon 23°C (73°F)

Should I visit Nantucket or Vernon in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Nantucket and Vernon. Many travelers come to Nantucket for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, many visitors come to Vernon in the autumn for the hiking trails and the shopping scene.

Nantucket is around the same temperature as Vernon in the autumn. The daily temperature in Nantucket averages around 53°F (12°C) in October, and Vernon fluctuates around 11°C (51°F).

Nantucket gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In October, Nantucket usually receives more rain than Vernon. Nantucket gets 4.4 inches (111 mm) of rain, while Vernon receives 14 mm (0.6 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Nantucket 53°F (12°C) 
    Vernon 11°C (51°F)

Should I visit Nantucket or Vernon in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Nantucket as well as Vernon. Many visitors come to Nantucket 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. Nantucket can get quite cold in the winter. In the winter, Nantucket is much warmer than Vernon. Typically, the winter temperatures in Nantucket in January average around 31°F (-0°C), and Vernon averages at about -3°C (27°F).

Nantucket receives a lot of rain in the winter. Nantucket usually gets more rain in January than Vernon. Nantucket gets 4.2 inches (106 mm) of rain, while Vernon receives 26 mm (1 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Nantucket 31°F (-0°C) 
    Vernon -3°C (27°F)

Should I visit Nantucket or Vernon in the Spring?

Both Vernon and Nantucket are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Nantucket for the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty during these months.

In April, Nantucket is generally much colder than Vernon. Daily temperatures in Nantucket average around 45°F (7°C), and Vernon fluctuates around 12°C (53°F).

It's quite rainy in Nantucket. In April, Nantucket usually receives more rain than Vernon. Nantucket gets 4.1 inches (103 mm) of rain, while Vernon receives 15 mm (0.6 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Nantucket 45°F (7°C) 
    Vernon 12°C (53°F)

Typical Weather for Vernon and Nantucket

Nantucket Vernon
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 31°F (-0°C) 4.2 inches (106 mm) -3°C (27°F) 26 mm (1 in)
Feb 32°F (-0°C) 4.6 inches (117 mm) 2°C (35°F) 14 mm (0.6 in)
Mar 38°F (3°C) 4 inches (102 mm) 7°C (44°F) 10 mm (0.4 in)
Apr 45°F (7°C) 4.1 inches (103 mm) 12°C (53°F) 15 mm (0.6 in)
May 53°F (12°C) 3.9 inches (99 mm) 16°C (61°F) 22 mm (0.9 in)
Jun 62°F (17°C) 3.6 inches (91 mm) 21°C (69°F) 29 mm (1.1 in)
Jul 68°F (20°C) 3.8 inches (96 mm) 23°C (73°F) 28 mm (1.1 in)
Aug 68°F (20°C) 3.1 inches (78 mm) 23°C (73°F) 30 mm (1.2 in)
Sep 62°F (17°C) 4.2 inches (106 mm) 17°C (63°F) 28 mm (1.1 in)
Oct 53°F (12°C) 4.4 inches (111 mm) 11°C (51°F) 14 mm (0.6 in)
Nov 46°F (8°C) 3.8 inches (96 mm) 4°C (39°F) 22 mm (0.9 in)
Dec 36°F (2°C) 4.5 inches (115 mm) -1°C (30°F) 33 mm (1.3 in)