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

Should you visit Philadelphia or Beaver Creek?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Philadelphia or Beaver Creek, 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.

Philadelphia

Philadelphia is a diverse, historic, and cultural city. It's a large city with plenty of activites for visitors as well. Philadelphia is a gorgeous place to visit. Other reasons to visit include shopping, museums, and theater. See Philadelphia travel costs.

Beaver Creek

Beaver Creek is a active, adventurous, and charming town. Visitors also love the food, hiking, and shopping. See Beaver Creek travel costs.

Philadelphia and Beaver Creek: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Numerous theater shows
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Scenic old town
  • Popular at Christmas
  • Known for Christmas markets
  • Known for its beauty
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Big city activities
Pros
  • Popular for skiing
  • Nice resorts
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
Things to Consider
  • Less theater options
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less popular with backpackers


Is there more to do in Philadelphia or Beaver Creek?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Philadelphia. Although Philadelphia and Beaver Creek are popular destinations, Philadelphia has more sights and attractions for tourists. Philadelphia is very popular for its museums and attractions, theatre productions, nightlife, music, historical sights, shopping, christmas markets, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Beaver Creek attracts visitors for its skiing, resorts, and hiking. Beaver Creek is more touristy than Philadelphia and is known for its skiing and charming atmosphere Philadelphia is famous for its diverse population, large number of universities, great restaurant and market scene, and its role in American history. It is also well known for The Liberty Bell.

How is Philadelphia different from Beaver Creek?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Philadelphia or Beaver Creek Better for Skiing?

Philadelphia
Beaver Creek

Beaver Creek is a must-visit destination for skiing and snowboarding. However, Philadelphia is not a skiing destination.

The snow ski experience you'll have in Beaver Creek is among the best in the world. 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.

Philadelphia is not a skiing destination.


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

Philadelphia
Beaver Creek

Philadelphia is a world-class destination for its historical sights. However, Beaver Creek does not have museums and landmarks.

Travelers visit Philadelphia from around the world to see its many world-famous attractions. The city has a rich history with a number of museums and monuments. Popular sites around the city include the Liberty Bell, Independence Hall, the Philadelphia Museum of Art, and the National Museum of Jewish American History.

Beaver Creek does not have museums and landmarks.

Is Philadelphia or Beaver Creek Better for Theater?

Philadelphia
Beaver Creek

Philadelphia is a great city for theatre. However, Beaver Creek is not known for its theatre productions.

Many visitors plan to see a show while visiting Philadelphia. There are major Broadway shows as well as smaller venues. Head to The Avenue of the Arts along Broad Street for a popular stretch of theaters.

Beaver Creek has a few theater choices. There are a couple of art galleries around town.

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

Philadelphia
Beaver Creek

Both Philadelphia and Beaver Creek offer a number of superb restaurants to choose from.

Philadelphia has a huge number of terrific restaurants. It has grown into a well-recognized food destination. It's diversity of cultures and residents have influenced the restaurant scene and you'll find many great places to dine covering a number of international flavors. The city is famous for its Philly cheesesteak and roast pork sandwich. You can also grab some local favorites at Reading Terminal Market.

Dining out in Beaver Creek is an experience not to be missed. 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 Philadelphia or Beaver Creek Better for Nightlife?

Philadelphia
Beaver Creek

Philadelphia is a great city for nightlife. However, Beaver Creek is not known for nightlife and partying.

The nightlife in Philadelphia has something for everybody. The city's nightlife scene carries late into the evening with many rooftop and outdoor beer gardens. Most of the clubs and bars are found in the downtown area and you'll find places to dance, listen to live music, or sip a trendy cocktails.

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 Philadelphia or Beaver Creek Better for Music?

Philadelphia
Beaver Creek

Philadelphia is a great city for live music. However, Beaver Creek is not a live music destination.

Philadelphia has a thriving music scene. The city's diverse music scene includes jazz, rock, and hip hop.

Beaver Creek is not a live music destination.

Is Philadelphia or Beaver Creek Better for Resorts?

Philadelphia
Beaver Creek

Beaver Creek is a nice place to visit for its luxury resorts. However, Philadelphia is not a resort destination.

With a selection of resorts, Beaver Creek makes a nice vacation spot. There are many resorts in the area including the Westin and the Hyatt.

Philadelphia is not a resort destination.


Is Philadelphia or Beaver Creek Better for its Old Town?

Philadelphia
Beaver Creek

Philadelphia is a nice place to visit for its historic old town. However, Beaver Creek does not have a historic old town.

Philadelphia is a good destination for visiting its old town. The Old City has a number of Colonial-era sites including Independence Hall, the Liberty Bell, the Betsy Ross House.

Beaver Creek does not have a historic old town.

Is Philadelphia or Beaver Creek Better for Hiking?

Philadelphia
Beaver Creek

Beaver Creek is an excellent place to visit for its hiking trails. However, Philadelphia is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors explore the nearby hiking trails while visiting Beaver Creek. 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.

Philadelphia is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Philadelphia or Beaver Creek?

Philadelphia
Beaver Creek

Philadelphia is a great city 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 Philadelphia. With all items tax-free, this city is a great place to shop. It has many boutique shops as well as name brand stores and shopping areas. For a local vibe, head to Reading Terminal Market.

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 Philadelphia or Beaver Creek More Beautiful?

Philadelphia
Beaver Creek

Philadelphia is a nice place to visit for its scenery and beauty. However, Beaver Creek is not a destination known for its beauty.

Philadelphia is a gorgeous place to visit. With its diverse neighborhoods and rich history, this city offers its own type of beauty.

Beaver Creek is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Philadelphia or Beaver Creek Better for Families?

Philadelphia
Beaver Creek

Beaver Creek is a must-visit destination for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Philadelphia is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

Beaver Creek is an amazing family-friendly town to visit. 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.

Philadelphia is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. The city has many museums and a fascinating history that is interesting to kids and adults alike. Popular activities include a zoo and Sesame Place. Kids also love the hands-on Please Touch Museum.

Is Philadelphia or Beaver Creek Better for Couples?

Philadelphia
Beaver Creek

Beaver Creek is an excellent place to visit for its romantic activities. Also, Philadelphia is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for couples.

Beaver Creek makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. There are romantic resorts nearby as well as great adventure sports, skiing, snowboarding, and a beautiful setting.

Philadelphia is a good city for couples to visit. Like many large cities, it is a fun place to explore in the evening as a couple. This is also a great foodie destination with great markets, food trucks, and diverse restaurants that reflect the city's diverse population.


Is Philadelphia or Beaver Creek Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Philadelphia
Beaver Creek

Philadelphia is a nice place to visit for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Beaver Creek is not known for backpackers.

It's common for backpackers to visit Philadelphia. There are a few good hostels for backpackers and budget travelers to choose from.

Beaver Creek is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. There aren't many facilities that cater to backpackers.

Is Philadelphia or Beaver Creek Better for Students?

Philadelphia
Beaver Creek

Philadelphia is a great city for its student-friendly activities. However, Beaver Creek is not popular with students.

Philadelphia is a great city to visit as a student. With its many universities and diverse population, this city is a great place for international students.

Beaver Creek is not popular with students.

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

Philadelphia
Beaver Creek

Philadelphia is a great city for times when you don't have a car. Also, Beaver Creek is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its public transit.

Public transit in Philadelphia is fairly effecient and thorough. The system includes a subway, trolleys, buses, and a commuter rail.

Beaver Creek has a few public transit options. There free transportation that's offered by Village Transportation.


Is Philadelphia or Beaver Creek a more walkable city?

Philadelphia
Beaver Creek

Philadelphia and Beaver Creek are amazing when it comes to walkability.

It's very easy to get around on foot in Philadelphia. The Old City is particularly walkable, as is Avenue of the Arts, and Rittenhouse Square.

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

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

Should I spend more time in Beaver Creek or Philadelphia?

How long in Philadelphia or Beaver Creek?

Both Philadelphia 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 Philadelphia. Usually, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Philadelphia, and 3-7 days is enough time in Beaver Creek.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Philadelphia 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 Philadelphia.


  • How many days in Philadelphia or Beaver Creek? Ideal Length of Stay
    Philadelphia 2-3 
    Beaver Creek 3-7

One day in Philadelphia or Beaver Creek?

Each neighborhood in Philadelphia has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

In Beaver Creek, many people enjoy the food and shopping that this charming town offers. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

A weekend in Philadelphia or Beaver Creek?

Philadelphia is a fun place to experience. 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 museums. So, a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

Beaver Creek is a fun place to experience. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. Lots of people come for the skiing. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring.


Five days in Philadelphia or Beaver Creek?

You'll find shopping and museums around the cultural big city of Philadelphia. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Lots of people come for the museums. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days.

In Beaver Creek, many people enjoy the skiing and food that this charming destination offers. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Plenty of people spend five days in the area when traveling. Lots of people come for the skiing. So, five days is just the right amount of time to spend here.

A week in Philadelphia or Beaver Creek?

Philadelphia is a popular place to visit. 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.

Beaver Creek is a popular place to visit. Many people spend one week here. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then one week is just the right amount of time to spend here. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.


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


Which place is cheaper, Beaver Creek or Philadelphia?

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

  • Philadelphia Prices
    USA Prices
    Beaver Creek Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Philadelphia $224
    Beaver Creek $378

The average daily cost (per person) in Philadelphia is $224, 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 Philadelphia and Beaver Creek in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Philadelphia $119
    Beaver Creek $203
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Philadelphia $238
    Beaver Creek $406
Compare Hotels in Philadelphia and Beaver Creek

Looking for a hotel in Philadelphia 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 Philadelphia


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: Philadelphia Hotel Prices and Beaver Creek Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Philadelphia $28
    Beaver Creek $30

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Philadelphia

Also for Philadelphia, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Philadelphia City to Baltimore City - Private Car Transfer: $210
  • Private Transfer Philadelphia to Philadephia Airport PHL by SUV: $146
  • Private transfer from PHL to Philadelphia Downtown: $130
  • Private Transfer: Philadelphia Airport PHL to Philadelphia in Luxury SUV: $115
  • Philadelphia Airport (PHL) to Philadelphia - Arrival Private Transfer: $109
  • Private Transfer: Philadelphia Airport PHL to Philadelphia in Business Car: $104
  • Private Transfer Philadephia to Philadelphia Airport PHL by Sedan: $94

Is it cheaper to fly into Philadelphia or Beaver Creek?

Prices for flights to both Beaver Creek and Philadelphia 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
    Philadelphia $84
    Beaver Creek $146
Typical Food Prices in Philadelphia

For Philadelphia, here are some examples of average food and meal prices for travelers:


  • Casual Lunch (for 3)
    $27

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Philadelphia

For Philadelphia, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Nibble Food Tour: $58
  • Philadelphia Italian Market Public Food Tour: $59
  • Center City Philadelphia Food Tour with Reading Market : $59
  • Flavors of Philly Food Tour: $65
  • Behind The Scenes Food Tour: South Philly & Italian Market: $95
  • Highlights of East Passyunk Food Tour: $105
  • City Cruises Signature Dinner Cruise with Buffet: $123

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Philadelphia $28
    Beaver Creek $53
Typical Entertainment Prices in Philadelphia

Below are a few sample prices from actual travelers for Philadelphia's activities, tours, and tickets:


  • Big Bus Tour (family of 3)
    $99

Tours and Activities in Philadelphia

For Philadelphia, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • 2.5 Hour Philadelphia History Tour with Washington War Tent Show: $45
  • 3-Hour Private Favorite & Secret Bars Walking Tour Philadelphia: $35
  • 90 Minute History Walking Tour of Old City Philadelphia: $29
  • Alexander Hamilton Private Group Walking Tour in Philadelphia: $250
  • Arabic Walking Tour of Historic Philadelphia for 2 hours. : $75
  • BYOB Historically Hilarious Trolley Tour of Philadelphia: $49
  • Badass Women's History Walking Tour of Philadelphia: $59
  • City Sightseeing Philadelphia Double Decker Hop-On Hop-Off (24, 48, 72 Hours): $68
  • City Sightseeing Philadelphia Founding Fathers Walking Tour : $32
  • City Sightseeing Philadelphia HOHO Bus Tour + Bookable Extras: $39
  • Classic Philadelphia City Bike Tour: $79
  • Dark Philly Adult Night Tour: $38

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Philadelphia $21
    Beaver Creek $35

Sample the Local Flavors in Philadelphia

Also in Philadelphia, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • Philly Ghosts Boos and Booze Haunted Pub Crawl: $36
  • Liberty History Tour Pub Crawl: $45
  • Philadelphia Prohibition Pub Crawl: $50
  • Philly Signature Guided Brewery Tour: $105


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

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