A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers New Orleans vs. Whistler for Food, Nightlife, Families, and Couples

Should you visit New Orleans or Whistler?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between New Orleans and Whistler 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.

New Orleans

New Orleans is a vibrant, energetic, and fun-filled city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. This is a quaint and attractive place to visit, too. It's also known for nightlife, live music, and food. See New Orleans travel costs.

Whistler

Whistler is a adventurous, outdoorsy, and charming village. This is a charming small with plenty of activities, too. Whistler is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Other reasons to visit include skiing, nightlife, and food. See Whistler travel costs.

New Orleans and Whistler: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in New Orleans or Whistler?

Tourists will generally find more to do in New Orleans. Although New Orleans and Whistler are both popular with visitors, New Orleans has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. New Orleans is more popular for its food, nightlife, music, historical sights, big city activities, and quaint atmosphere, while Whistler is known for its skiing, museums and attractions, resorts, hiking, shopping, small town charm, and impressive beauty. New Orleans is popular for its jazz festivals, local cuisine, quaint balconies, and world class Mardi Gras parties. It is also home to The French Quarter. Whistler is popular for its world renowned skiing and snowboarding.

The French Quarter

How is New Orleans different from Whistler?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is New Orleans or Whistler Better for Skiing?

Whistler is a world-class destination for skiing and snowboarding. However, New Orleans is not a skiing destination.

Visitors will find world class skiing in Whistler. 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.

New Orleans is not a skiing destination.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in New Orleans or Whistler?

Whistler is a decent place to visit for its museums and history. However, New Orleans does not have museums and landmarks.

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.

New Orleans does not have museums and landmarks.

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

New Orleans is renowned for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Whistler is not as famous, but is still a good village to visit for its restaurants.

Known for it's food and restaurant scene, New Orleans is always at the top of any foodie's travel list. It has rapidly grown into one of the United State's most well known foodie destinations. It's the birthplace of bananas foster and popular for it's gumbo, crawfish etouffee, jambalaya, and red beans and rice. While there are a number of celebrity chefs from New Orleans, you'll also find many local restaurants that aren't as well known but are equally worth visiting.

Whistler has a huge number of terrific restaurants. 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 New Orleans or Whistler Better for Nightlife?

New Orleans is renowned for nightlife. Also, Whistler is not as famous, but is still a good village to visit for nightlife and partying.

New Orleans is a destination that you simply have to visit at least once for nightlife. The nightlife scene is at its best during Mardi Gras. But year-round you'll find Bachelor and Bachelorette parties, spring breakers, and anyone who wants to enjoy a crazy time heads to New Orleans. New Orleans is a destination that attracts partiers any time of the year, and the French Quarter is the place to be if you're looking for a party.

Whistler has a large number of nightlife venues. After a day on the slopes, you can enjoy the lively nightlife that includes après ski bars, nightclubs, and late night parties.

Is New Orleans or Whistler Better for Music?

New Orleans is renowned for live music. However, Whistler is not a live music destination.

New Orleans is a world class music destination. The city is known for its music festivals that feature jazz, blues, and many other types of live music. The Jazz Festival is a great time to visit.

Whistler is not a live music destination.

Is New Orleans or Whistler Better for Resorts?

Whistler is an excellent place to visit for its luxury resorts. However, New Orleans is not a resort destination.

In Whistler, you'll find some of the region's top resorts. 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.

New Orleans is not a resort destination.

Is New Orleans or Whistler Better for its Old Town?

New Orleans is a well-known place for its historic old town. However, Whistler does not have a historic old town.

Many visitors go to New Orleans to see the historical old town. The French Quarter is filled with old architecture and beautiful historic landmarks.

Whistler does not have a historic old town.

Is New Orleans or Whistler Better for Hiking?

Whistler is a world-class destination for its hiking trails. However, New Orleans is not a hiking destination.

Around Whistler visitors will find world-class hiking 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.

New Orleans is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in New Orleans or Whistler?

Whistler is a village with good options for shopping. However, New Orleans is lacking in options for its shopping opportunities.

Plenty of visitors enjoy shopping while in Whistler. The village offers great shopping where you can pick up local items or any ski gear you may have forgotten.

If you're looking to go shopping, New Orleans has some nice offerings. New Orleans shopping is mostly centered around shopping malls and chain stores.

Is New Orleans or Whistler More Beautiful?

Whistler is an excellent place to visit for its scenery and beauty. However, New Orleans is not a destination known for its beauty.

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.

New Orleans is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is New Orleans or Whistler Better for Families?

Whistler is a world-class destination for its kid-friendly activities. However, New Orleans is lacking in options for its family-friendly activities.

Whistler is an extremely popular village to visit for families. 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.

New Orleans doesn't usually come to mind when thinking about kid-friendly destinations. While there are some family-friendly activities in New Orleans like a zoo and several great parks, the city is more known for its parties and nightlife scene. Particularly during certain seasons, most people choose to visit New Orleans without kids.

Is New Orleans or Whistler Better for Couples?

Whistler is an excellent place to visit for romance. Also, New Orleans is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its romantic activities.

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

New Orleans makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Couples who enjoy a lively evening, fun festivals, and exploring absolutely amazing restaurants will enjoy a visit to New Orleans. It has a festive and unique atmosphere any time of the year. There are also nice hotels and beautiful parks.

Is New Orleans or Whistler Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Whistler is an excellent place to visit for backpackers and budget travelers. However, New Orleans is lacking in options for backpackers.

Whistler is very popular with the backpacker crowd. There are several hostels in the area that are perfect for backpackers and budget travelers.

New Orleans is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. There are a handful of hostels in New Orleans that are good options for backpackers who want to meet other travelers.

Is New Orleans or Whistler Better for Students?

New Orleans is a nice place to visit for students. However, Whistler is not popular with students.

New Orleans is a good city to visit for students. Students head to New Orleans to enjoy spring break and Mardi Gras.

Whistler is not popular with students.

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

Visitors will find decent public transit in both New Orleans and Whistler.

Public transit is mostly limited in New Orleans. The city has streetcar lines and bus lines that you can use, but you'll want to have a car if you want to venture outside of these main areas.

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

Is New Orleans or Whistler a more walkable city?

Whistler is an excellent place to visit for its walkability. Also, New Orleans is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its high level of walkability.

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

New Orleans is a somewhat walkable place. If you stick to the French Quarter and downtown areas, most things are walkable in New Orleans.

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

Should I spend more time in Whistler or New Orleans?

How long in New Orleans or Whistler?

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

Families should spend more time in Whistler than New Orleans. 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 New Orleans. 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 New Orleans 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 New Orleans or Whistler?

The city of New Orleans offers nightlife and live music. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. 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.

Visitors enjoy the skiing and nightlife when visiting the adventurous village of Whistler. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. 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 New Orleans or Whistler?

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

Visitors enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the adventurous destination of Whistler. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. This village 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 New Orleans or Whistler?

New Orleans 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.

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the adventurous village of Whistler. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. 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 New Orleans or Whistler?

New Orleans is a great place to explore. Visiting the old town is also a must. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This city offers something for everyone.

Many people enjoy the shopping and skiing when visiting Whistler. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Cultural Tours in United States of America, The Best Photography Tours in 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 New Orleans and Whistler, we can see that New Orleans 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 New Orleans would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in New Orleans 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 New Orleans Expensive? and Is Whistler Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, New Orleans or Whistler?

New Orleans has a larger population, and is about 50 times larger than the population of Whistler. When comparing the sizes of New Orleans 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 New Orleans 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 New Orleans or Whistler in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to New Orleans as well as Whistler. Most visitors come to New Orleans for the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Whistler because of the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences.

New Orleans is much warmer than Whistler in the summer. The daily temperature in New Orleans averages around 82°F (28°C) in July, and Whistler fluctuates around 18°C (64°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Whistler. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in New Orleans this time of the year. In the summer, New Orleans often gets less sunshine than Whistler. New Orleans gets 264 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Whistler receives 296 hours of full sun.

New Orleans receives a lot of rain in the summer. New Orleans usually gets more rain in July than Whistler. New Orleans gets 5.9 inches (149 mm) of rain, while Whistler receives 54 mm (2.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit New Orleans or Whistler in the Autumn?

Both Whistler and New Orleans are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The autumn months attract visitors to New Orleans because of the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the music scene. Also, the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Whistler this time of year.

In the autumn, New Orleans is much warmer than Whistler. Typically, the autumn temperatures in New Orleans in October average around 69°F (21°C), and Whistler averages at about 11°C (51°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in New Orleans. New Orleans usually receives more sunshine than Whistler during autumn. New Orleans gets 240 hours of sunny skies, while Whistler receives 124 hours of full sun in the autumn.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Whistler. In October, New Orleans usually receives less rain than Whistler. New Orleans gets 3 inches (77 mm) of rain, while Whistler receives 164 mm (6.5 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit New Orleans or Whistler in the Winter?

Both Whistler and New Orleans during the winter are popular places to visit. The shopping scene and the cuisine are the main draw to New Orleans this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Whistler for the skiing, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Whistler. In January, New Orleans is generally much warmer than Whistler. Daily temperatures in New Orleans average around 51°F (11°C), and Whistler fluctuates around 4°C (40°F).

In the winter, New Orleans often gets more sunshine than Whistler. New Orleans gets 158 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Whistler receives 55 hours of full sun.

Whistler gets a good bit of rain this time of year. It rains a lot this time of the year in New Orleans. New Orleans usually gets less rain in January than Whistler. New Orleans gets 5.2 inches (131 mm) of rain, while Whistler receives 167 mm (6.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit New Orleans or Whistler in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both New Orleans and Whistler. Many travelers come to New Orleans for the activities around the city. Furthermore, many visitors come to Whistler in the spring for the small town charm and the natural beauty.

New Orleans is much warmer than Whistler in the spring. The daily temperature in New Orleans averages around 68°F (20°C) in April, and Whistler fluctuates around 9°C (49°F).

In New Orleans, it's very sunny this time of the year. New Orleans usually receives more sunshine than Whistler during spring. New Orleans gets 254 hours of sunny skies, while Whistler receives 172 hours of full sun in the spring.

Whistler receives a lot of rain in the spring. New Orleans gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In April, New Orleans usually receives around the same amount of rain as Whistler. New Orleans gets 4.5 inches (114 mm) of rain, while Whistler receives 110 mm (4.3 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Whistler and New Orleans