A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Philadelphia vs. Boise for Attractions, Food, Nightlife, and Families

Should you visit Philadelphia or Boise?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Philadelphia or Boise, 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 cultural, diverse, and historic city. As it's a big city, visitors will find plenty to do, too. Philadelphia offers plenty of beauty for visitors. It's also popular because of the theater, nightlife, and live music. See Philadelphia travel costs.

Boise

Boise is a welcoming, authentic, and friendly city. Visitors also love the shopping, museums, and nightlife. See Boise travel costs.

Philadelphia and Boise: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Numerous theater shows
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • 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
  • Good public transit
  • Very walkable
  • Big city activities
Pros
  • Active nightlife
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • Less popular for food
  • Less family-friendly
  • Less popular with couples
  • Less popular with backpackers
  • Public transit not as usable
  • Less walkable


Is there more to do in Philadelphia or Boise?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Philadelphia than Boise, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Philadelphia is more touristy than Boise and is known for its diverse population, large number of universities, great restaurant and market scene, and its role in American history. It is also home to The Liberty Bell. Boise is popular for its many outdoor and recreational activities.

How is Philadelphia different from Boise?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Philadelphia or Boise?

Philadelphia
Boise

Philadelphia is a must-visit destination for its museums and history. Also, Boise is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its museums and landmarks.

With plenty of landmarks, attractions, and museums, Philadelphia has many famous sights for visitors. 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.

Boise is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. As the state capital, there's a nice selection of local museums around town. Favorites include the Boise Art Museum, the Basque Museum & Cultural Center, the Idaho Black History Museum, and Discovery Center.


Is Philadelphia or Boise Better for Theater?

Philadelphia
Boise

Philadelphia is an excellent place to visit for its shows and theatre. However, Boise is not a theatre destination.

While in town, many visitors enjoy seeing a show in 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.

Boise is not a theatre destination.

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

Philadelphia
Boise

Philadelphia is an excellent place to visit for its restaurants. However, Boise is lacking in options for its restaurant scene.

Philadelphia has a number of nationally recognized food spots and 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.

Boise offers some easy restaurants to choose from. While Idaho has long been associated with the potato, the locals usually think of "finger steaks" when describing local food. These are deep-friend beef strips that are as good as they sound.

Is Philadelphia or Boise Better for Nightlife?

Philadelphia
Boise

Philadelphia is an excellent place to visit for its evening party scene. Also, Boise is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for nightlife.

Philadelphia has a lively atmosphere and nightlife is popular here. 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.

Boise has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. In downtown Boise you'll find a selection of bars, lounges, and breweries. There's enough around town to keep the nightlife scene interesting.


Is Philadelphia or Boise Better for Music?

Philadelphia
Boise

Philadelphia is an excellent place to visit for its music scene. However, Boise is not a live music destination.

Whether you like big venues or smaller artists, Philadelphia has diverse options. The city's diverse music scene includes jazz, rock, and hip hop.

Boise is not a live music destination.

Is Philadelphia or Boise Better for its Old Town?

Philadelphia
Boise

Philadelphia is a popular place for its historic old town charm. However, Boise does not have a historic old town.

Philadelphia has an old town worth visiting. The Old City has a number of Colonial-era sites including Independence Hall, the Liberty Bell, the Betsy Ross House.

Boise does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Philadelphia or Boise?

Philadelphia
Boise

Philadelphia is an excellent place to visit for its shopping areas. Also, Boise is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for shopping.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in 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.

Boise is a great destination for shopping. You'll find a mix of local boutiques, independent vendors, and suburban shopping centers where you'll find anything that you might need.


Is Philadelphia or Boise More Beautiful?

Philadelphia
Boise

Philadelphia is a popular place for its scenery and beauty. However, Boise is not a destination known for its beauty.

Philadelphia offers plenty of beauty for visitors. With its diverse neighborhoods and rich history, this city offers its own type of beauty.

Boise is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Philadelphia or Boise Better for Families?

Philadelphia
Boise

Philadelphia is an excellent place to visit for its kid-friendly activities. However, Boise is lacking in options for its family-friendly activities.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Philadelphia. 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.

Boise doesn't usually come to mind when thinking about kid-friendly destinations. You'll find parks, playgrounds, and the Discovery Center which will help keep kids entertained.

Is Philadelphia or Boise Better for Couples?

Philadelphia
Boise

Philadelphia is a popular place for couples. However, Boise is lacking in options for romance.

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.

Boise is not the best destination for a couple to visit. Date night activities include dining at a nice restaurants and seeing a show at the theater.


Is Philadelphia or Boise Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Philadelphia
Boise

Philadelphia is a popular place for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Boise is lacking in options for backpackers.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Philadelphia. There are a few good hostels for backpackers and budget travelers to choose from.

Boise is not the best destination for backpackers and budget travelers due to its high prices. Backpackers rarely make their way to this town.

Is Philadelphia or Boise Better for Students?

Philadelphia
Boise

Philadelphia is an excellent place to visit for its student-friendly activities. However, Boise is not popular with students.

Philadelphia is a very popular city for students and younger travelers. With its many universities and diverse population, this city is a great place for international students.

Boise is not popular with students.

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

Philadelphia
Boise

Philadelphia is an excellent place to visit for times when you don't have a car. However, Boise is lacking in options for its public transit.

Philadelphia offers a very effecient public transportation network. The system includes a subway, trolleys, buses, and a commuter rail.

Public transit is generally limited in Boise. There are infrequent buses around town, but visitors usually have a car to get around town efficiently.


Is Philadelphia or Boise a more walkable city?

Philadelphia
Boise

Philadelphia is a must-visit destination for its ease of walking around. However, Boise is lacking in options for its 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.

Boise is generally not very walkable. There are a couple of walkable neighborhoods but, in general, the town isn't very walkable.

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

Should I spend more time in Boise or Philadelphia?

How long in Philadelphia or Boise?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Philadelphia or Boise to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Philadelphia than Boise because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Philadelphia, and 1-2 days is enough time in Boise.

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

Couples should spend more time in Philadelphia than Boise. 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 Boise 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 Boise? Ideal Length of Stay
    Philadelphia 2-3 
    Boise 1-2

One day in Philadelphia or Boise?

Each neighborhood in Philadelphia has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. Lots of people come for the museums. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

In Boise, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this authentic city offers. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. In one day, you should have a good grasp of this city.

A weekend in Philadelphia or Boise?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Philadelphia. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. This would be the perfect place to spend a weekend, as it has just the right amount of activities. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Boise 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. So, a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.


Five days in Philadelphia or Boise?

Philadelphia is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the big city destination of Philadelphia. Lots of people come for the museums. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

You'll find nightlife and shopping around the friendly destination of Boise. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days.

A week in Philadelphia or Boise?

You'll find shopping and museums around the diverse big city of Philadelphia. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Lots of people come for the museums. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Boise 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.


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, Boise 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
    Boise Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Philadelphia $224
    Boise $179

The average daily cost (per person) in Philadelphia is $224, while the average daily cost in Boise is $179. 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 Boise in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Philadelphia $119
    Boise $75
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Philadelphia $238
    Boise $150
Compare Hotels in Philadelphia and Boise

Looking for a hotel in Philadelphia or Boise? 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 Boise


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 Boise Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Philadelphia $28
    Boise $34

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Philadelphia

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

  • Private transfer from PHL to Philadelphia Downtown: $130
  • Private Transfer: Philadelphia to Philadelphia Airport PHL in Luxury SUV: $115
  • Private Transfer: Philadelphia to Airport PHL by Business Car: $104
  • Private Transfer: Philadelphia Airport PHL to Philadelphia in Luxury SUV: $115
  • Private Transfer: Philadelphia Airport PHL to Philadelphia in Business Car: $104
  • Private Transfer Philadephia to Philadelphia Airport PHL by Sedan: $94
  • Private Transfer Philadephia Airport PHL to Philadelphia by SUV: $152
  • Private Transfer Philadelphia to Philadephia Airport PHL by SUV: $146
  • Philadelphia to Philadelphia Airport (PHL) - Departure Private Transfer: $109
  • Philadelphia City to Baltimore City - Private Car Transfer: $210
  • Philadelphia Airport (PHL) to Philadelphia - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $217
  • Philadelphia Airport (PHL) to Philadelphia - Arrival Private Transfer: $109

Is it cheaper to fly into Philadelphia or Boise?

Prices for flights to both Boise 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
    Boise $78
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:

  • Philadelphia Africatown Walking Food Tour: $56
  • Nibble Food Tour: $58
  • Philadelphia Italian Market Public Food Tour: $59
  • Center City Philadelphia Food Tour with Reading Market : $59
  • Philadelphia's Delicious Donut Adventure & Walking Food Tour: $65
  • 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: $109
  • Italian Market Private 2.5 Hour Walking Food Tour : $130
  • Flavours of Private Reading Market 2.5-hr Food Tour: $290

Typical Food Prices in Boise

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


  • Hotel
    $59
  • Cracker Barrel Lunch (for 4)
    $55

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Philadelphia $28
    Boise $30
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:

  • Philly Italian Market Walking Tour Geno's: $79
  • 1 Hour Philadelphia Private Guided Tour by Deluxe Electric Car: $150
  • 2.5 Hour Philadelphia History Tour with Washington War Tent Show: $45
  • 3-Hour Private Favorite & Secret Bars Walking Tour Philadelphia: $35
  • 5K Walking Sightseeing Tour of Historic Benjamin Franklin Bridge: $24
  • 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
  • Beyond the [Liberty] Bell History Walking Tour: $59
  • City Sightseeing Philadelphia Double Decker Hop-On Hop-Off (24, 48, 72 Hours): $68

Typical Entertainment Prices in Boise

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


  • Edwards Boise Imax
    $27

Tours and Activities in Boise

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

  • A Macabre History of Boise Walking Tour: $25
  • Boise River: Guided Rafting, Swimming, and Wildlife Tour: $68
  • Boise Scavenger Hunt Adventure: $49
  • Boise Scavenger Hunt Walking Tour and Game: $25
  • Boise's Best Brunch Experience: $152
  • Culinary and Cultural Tour of Boise: $152
  • Scavenger Hunt Adventure in Boise by 3Quest Challenge: $10

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Philadelphia $21
    Boise $24

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: $29
  • Liberty History Tour Pub Crawl: $45
  • Haunted Pub Crawl: $50
  • Philadelphia Prohibition Pub Crawl: $50
  • Philly Signature Guided Brewery Tour: $105


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

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


Which is Bigger, Philadelphia or Boise?

Philadelphia has a larger population, and is about 10 times larger than the population of Boise. When comparing the sizes of Philadelphia and Boise, 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.