A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Napa Valley vs. Beaver Creek for Food, Families, Couples, and Nightlife

Should you visit Napa Valley or Beaver Creek?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Napa Valley and Beaver Creek can help. It includes a travel cost comparison in addition to other factors. For many travelers, the cost of a destination is a primary consideration when choosing where to go.

Napa Valley

Napa Valley is a scenic, picturesque, and idyllic area. Many visitors also come to Napa Valley because of it's amazing beauty. Other reasons to visit include shopping, nightlife, and food. See Napa Valley travel costs.

Beaver Creek

Beaver Creek is a adventurous, charming, and active town. It's also popular because of the shopping, skiing, and food. See Beaver Creek travel costs.

Napa Valley and Beaver Creek: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good for hiking
  • Known for its beauty
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less family-friendly
  • Less popular with backpackers
  • Public transit not as usable
  • Less walkable
Pros
  • Popular for skiing
  • Nice resorts
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good public transit
  • Very walkable
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less popular with backpackers


Is there more to do in Napa Valley or Beaver Creek?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Beaver Creek than Napa Valley, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Beaver Creek is better known for its skiing, theatre productions, and resorts, while Napa Valley is more popular for its museums and attractions, food, nightlife, shopping, and impressive beauty. Beaver Creek is more touristy than Napa Valley and is known for its skiing and charming atmosphere Also, Beaver Creek is famous for Beaver Creek Golf Club. Napa Valley is well known for its world class wineries and beautiful countryside.

How is Napa Valley different from Beaver Creek?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Napa Valley or Beaver Creek Better for Skiing?

Napa Valley
Beaver Creek

Beaver Creek is terrific for skiing. However, Napa Valley is not a skiing destination.

Visitors will find world class skiing in Beaver Creek. 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.

Napa Valley is not a skiing destination.


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

Napa Valley
Beaver Creek

Napa Valley is adequate for its historical sights. However, Beaver Creek does not have museums and landmarks.

While most people don't head to Napa Valley specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. Most visitors spend their time visiting vineyards, but there are a couple of local museums and galleries in the area that are worth checking out.

Beaver Creek does not have museums and landmarks.

Is Napa Valley or Beaver Creek Better for Theater?

Napa Valley
Beaver Creek

Beaver Creek is mediocre for its shows and theatre. However, Napa Valley is not a theatre destination.

While not known for its theater, you might be able to find something in Beaver Creek while you're in town. There are a couple of art galleries around town.

Napa Valley is not a theatre destination.

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

Napa Valley
Beaver Creek

Napa Valley is a world-class destination for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Beaver Creek is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Known for it's food and restaurant scene, Napa Valley is always at the top of any foodie's travel list. It's most known for its world-class wine, but Napa Valley is also filled with Michelin starred restaurants and charming local eateries. Whether you're looking for a casual meal or something more upscale, there is no shortage of options. Most places take advantage of local ingredients that are very fresh. Menus change regularly and seasonal ingredients are common. And, of course, you'll find a wide selection of local wines.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Beaver Creek. 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.


Is Napa Valley or Beaver Creek Better for Nightlife?

Napa Valley
Beaver Creek

Napa Valley is a great area for nightlife. However, Beaver Creek is not known for nightlife and partying.

The nightlife in Napa Valley has something for everybody. In the evening, visitors will enjoy the area's live music scene, theaters, and bars. There are also plenty of wine bars where you can continue to enjoy local wines.

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 Napa Valley or Beaver Creek Better for Resorts?

Napa Valley
Beaver Creek

Beaver Creek is a town with good options for its luxury resorts. However, Napa Valley is not a resort destination.

Beaver Creek has a few great resort options. There are many resorts in the area including the Westin and the Hyatt.

Napa Valley is not a resort destination.

Is Napa Valley or Beaver Creek Better for Hiking?

Napa Valley
Beaver Creek

Both Napa Valley and Beaver Creek are destinations which offer high quality hiking.

Many visitors go to Napa Valley for the hiking trails. There are a number of state parks in the area, and there are also trails that pass by vineyards. Some of the best hiking trails are found in Alston Park, Bothe-Napa Valley State Park, or Las Posadas State Forest.

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.


Is the Shopping Better in Napa Valley or Beaver Creek?

Napa Valley
Beaver Creek

Napa Valley is a great area 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 Napa Valley. There are many interesting local boutiques in the different towns. You'll find shops selling clothing, jewelry, local items, and gifts. Some of the best shopping is found along First Street in downtown Napa.

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 Napa Valley or Beaver Creek More Beautiful?

Napa Valley
Beaver Creek

Napa Valley is a world-class destination for its scenery and beauty. However, Beaver Creek is not a destination known for its beauty.

Many visitors also come to Napa Valley because of it's amazing beauty. It is filled with rows of vineyards, classic chateaus, and picturesque settings, which make this a beautiful destination to explore.

Beaver Creek is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Napa Valley or Beaver Creek Better for Families?

Napa Valley
Beaver Creek

Beaver Creek is terrific for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Napa Valley is not as popular, but is still a nice area for its family-friendly activities.

Beaver Creek is an extremely popular town to visit for families. 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.

Napa Valley is a family-friendly place to visit. Vineyards and wine tasting may be what comes to mind for most travelers in Napa Valley, but those visiting with kids will appreciate the hiking trails, markets, and outdoor activities.


Is Napa Valley or Beaver Creek Better for Couples?

Napa Valley
Beaver Creek

Napa Valley is a world-class destination for romance. Also, Beaver Creek is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its romantic activities.

Napa Valley has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. It's long been considered a favorite honeymoon destination for newly-weds. The scenic vineyards and charming hotels make this the perfect couple's destination, whether you're celebrating an anniversary or simply want some time away together.

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.

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

Napa Valley
Beaver Creek

Beaver Creek is a town with good options for times when you don't have a car. However, Napa Valley is not known for its public transit.

While Beaver Creek offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There free transportation that's offered by Village Transportation.

Public transit is limited or non-existant in Napa Valley. Public transit in the area is limited but within the city of Napa there are buses operated by the Vine Transit.

Is Napa Valley or Beaver Creek a more walkable city?

Napa Valley
Beaver Creek

Beaver Creek is terrific for its ease of walking around. However, Napa Valley is not known for its walkability.

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

Napa Valley is not a walkable area. The vineyards are spread out and require a car or bike to access.


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

Should I spend more time in Beaver Creek or Napa Valley?

How long in Napa Valley or Beaver Creek?

Both Napa Valley 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 Napa Valley. Usually, 1-4 days is a good amount of time for Napa Valley, and 3-7 days is enough time in Beaver Creek.

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

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


  • How many days in Napa Valley or Beaver Creek? Ideal Length of Stay
    Napa Valley 1-4 
    Beaver Creek 3-7

One day in Napa Valley or Beaver Creek?

In Napa Valley, many people enjoy the food and shopping that this scenic area offers. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. In one day, you should have a good grasp of this area.

Visitors enjoy the skiing and food when visiting the charming town of Beaver Creek. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Most people visit for the skiing. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A weekend in Napa Valley or Beaver Creek?

Napa Valley is a fun place to experience. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. Lots of people come for the food. So, a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the charming destination of Beaver Creek. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. This town offers something for everyone. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

Five days in Napa Valley or Beaver Creek?

You'll find nightlife and food around the picturesque destination of Napa Valley. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Lots of people come for the food. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days.

Visitors enjoy the shopping and skiing when visiting the active town of Beaver Creek. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. Many people spend five days here.If you enjoy all that's offered here, then five days is just the right amount of time to spend here. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.


A week in Napa Valley or Beaver Creek?

Napa Valley is a popular place to visit. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. 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.

Visitors enjoy the skiing and food when visiting the destination of Beaver Creek. Anyone can find something fun to do here. This is a popular place to visit for one week. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. Most people visit for the skiing. In one week, you should have a good grasp of this town.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Contiki Tours to United States of America, The Best G Adventures Tours to United States of America, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Las Vegas, and The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Anchorage.


Which place is cheaper, Beaver Creek or Napa Valley?

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

  • Napa Valley Prices
    USA Prices
    Beaver Creek Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Napa Valley $333
    Beaver Creek $378

The average daily cost (per person) in Napa Valley is $333, 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 Napa Valley and Beaver Creek in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Napa Valley $126
    Beaver Creek $203
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Napa Valley $252
    Beaver Creek $406
Compare Hotels in Napa Valley and Beaver Creek

Looking for a hotel in Napa Valley 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 Napa Valley


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: Napa Valley Hotel Prices and Beaver Creek Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Napa Valley $183
    Beaver Creek $30

Is it cheaper to fly into Napa Valley or Beaver Creek?

Prices for flights to both Beaver Creek and Napa Valley 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
    Napa Valley $108
    Beaver Creek $146

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Napa Valley $28
    Beaver Creek $53

Tours and Activities in Napa Valley

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

  • A Self-Guided Audio Tour Around Bodega Head : $9.99
  • Behind-the-Scenes Food and Wine E-Bike Tour: $159
  • Full-Day Napa Valley E-Bike Tour with Picnic Lunch: $224
  • Half Day Bike Tour: $139
  • Half Day Tour: $139
  • Half-Day Napa Valley E-Bike Tour: $169
  • Napa Puzzling Adventure: $35
  • Napa Valley & Sonoma Self-Guided Audio Driving Tour: $25
  • Napa Valley Daily Join In Group Wineries Tour Including Lunch: $125
  • Napa Valley Mountainside Small Group Winery Tour: $141
  • Napa Valley Small Group Winery Tour: $141
  • Napa Valley Wine Trolley Castle Tour: $135

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Napa Valley $66
    Beaver Creek $35

Sample the Local Flavors in Napa Valley

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Napa Valley:

  • Guided Wine Tour with Picnic Lunch: $137
  • ATV Vineyard Tour and Wine Tasting: $150
  • ATV Vineyard Tour with Wine Tasting: $155
  • Intro to Wine Tasting with Napa Sommelière : $156
  • #1 Sonoma Walking Food, Wine Tasting & History Tour (Public Tour): $179
  • Healdsburg Cycling Wine Tour : $199
  • Napa & Sonoma Wine Tour | 6-8hr Private Fully Customized.*XL SUV: $250


When comparing the travel costs between Napa Valley and Beaver Creek, we can see that Beaver Creek is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Since both cities are in North America, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

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