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

Should you visit Philadelphia or Boulder?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Philadelphia or Boulder, 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 historic, cultural, and diverse city. Travelers will also find plenty of sights and attractions here, as it's a big city that attracts lots of visitors. Philadelphia is a beautiful place to visit, too. Visitors also love the live music, food, and shopping. See Philadelphia travel costs.

Boulder

Boulder is a outdoorsy, nature-filled, and biker-friendly city. Boulder is a beautiful place to visit, too. Visitors also love the shopping, nightlife, and live music. See Boulder travel costs.

Philadelphia and Boulder: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Philadelphia or Boulder?

You'll generally find more things to do in Philadelphia than Boulder. Philadelphia is bigger than Boulder, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Philadelphia is better known for its museums and attractions, theatre productions, food, nightlife, music, historical sights, shopping, christmas markets, and big city activities, while Boulder is more popular for its skiing and hiking. Philadelphia is well known for its diverse population, large number of universities, great restaurant and market scene, and its role in American history. Also, Philadelphia is famous for The Liberty Bell. Boulder is well known for its outdoor sports, biker-friendly downtown, vibrant downtown, and many local breweries.

How is Philadelphia different from Boulder?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Philadelphia or Boulder Better for Skiing?

Boulder is a decent place to visit for skiing and snowboarding. However, Philadelphia is not a skiing destination.

Boulder is a fun local destination for snow skiers. The town offers access within an hour or two to several great ski resorts including Eldora Mountain, Vail, and Breckenridge.

Philadelphia is not a skiing destination.

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

Philadelphia is an unbeatable place for its historical sights. However, Boulder is not known for its sights and museums.

The museums and tourist attractions in Philadelphia are world-renowned. 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.

Boulder offers a handful of options for museums and historical sights. Most people visit Boulder for the outdoor activities more than the museums and sights. If have the time you can wander around the University of Colorado Boulder campus, visit the Museum of Boulder, or see the Leanin' Tree Museum of Western Art.

Is Philadelphia or Boulder Better for Theater?

Philadelphia is a great city for its theatre productions. However, Boulder is not a theatre destination.

Philadelphia offers many theater and performance venues for visitors. 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.

Boulder is not a theatre destination.

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

Philadelphia is a great city for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Boulder is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its local cuisine and restaurants.

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.

There are many up and coming restaurants in the Boulder area. This is an often overlooked foodie town, with great farmer's markets and restaurants to try. There are many casual places to eat as well as vegetarian and vegan friendly options everywhere.

Is Philadelphia or Boulder Better for Nightlife?

Philadelphia is a great city for nightlife and partying. Also, Boulder is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its evening party scene.

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.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Boulder. The town has breweries, craft beer, and plenty to do in the evening. Live music is popular and many venues are smaller with a more personal atmosphere. Check out The Bitter Bar or License No. 1 for a local vibe.

Is Philadelphia or Boulder Better for Music?

Philadelphia is a great city for its live music scene. Also, Boulder is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its music scene.

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

The music scene in Boulder is active and vibrant. During the summer months there are often outdoor concerts. Head to Pearl Street for open air stages or see a concert at Boulder Theater.

Is Philadelphia or Boulder Better for its Old Town?

Philadelphia is a good destination for its old town. However, Boulder does not have a historic old town.

Plenty of visitors enjoy exploring the old town in Philadelphia. The Old City has a number of Colonial-era sites including Independence Hall, the Liberty Bell, the Betsy Ross House.

Boulder does not have a historic old town.

Is Philadelphia or Boulder Better for Hiking?

Boulder 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 Boulder. There are many accessible hikes in the area that take you through the mountains, by wildflowers, or up mountain peaks. Popular hikes that are nearby include the Bear Peak Summit Hike, the trails in Eldorado Canyon State Park, and Boulder Falls.

Philadelphia is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Philadelphia or Boulder?

Philadelphia is a great city for its shopping opportunities. Also, Boulder is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its shopping areas.

Philadelphia is well-known for its shopping. 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.

Many visitors go to Boulder to go shopping. The downtown area has many local retailers where you can shop for clothing, art, or home goods. You can also pick up outdoor gear, camping equipment, and any other items you may need in town. Make sure you wander down the pedestrian-friendly Pearl Street Mall.

Is Philadelphia or Boulder More Beautiful?

Philadelphia and Boulder are somewhat similar when it comes to the notable scenery.

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

Boulder offers plenty of beauty for visitors. The city is surrounded by beautiful mountains and breathtaking landscapes. Many people move here specifically for the surrounding natural beauty.

Is Philadelphia or Boulder Better for Families?

Philadelphia is a great city for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Boulder is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its family-friendly activities.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Philadelphia is very family-friendly. 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.

Boulder is a family-friendly place to visit. The city has parks, playgrounds, a planetarium, and climbing gyms that are fun for kids of all ages. There are plenty places to get outdoors with hiking, kayaking, and other outdoor recreational activities. Eldorado Canyon State Park is a great place to explore as well.

Is Philadelphia or Boulder Better for Couples?

Philadelphia and Boulder are both notable to visit as a couple.

Philadelphia makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. 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.

Boulder is a good city for couples to visit. This is a great city for couples who love outdoor adventures, hiking, rock climbing, and cycling. You can wander down Pearl Street or go for a bike ride. There are also great restaurants where you can enjoy a meal and then head to Panorama Point to take in the view.

Is Philadelphia or Boulder Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Philadelphia and Boulder are both notable destinations for backpackers.

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

Boulder is a good city to visit for backpackers. There are a number of backcountry areas in the region that are perfect for backpackers. The city also has a young population and several affordable places to stay.

Is Philadelphia or Boulder Better for Students?

Both Philadelphia and Boulder are great destinations for 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.

Students come from all over to stay in Boulder. With the University of Colorado, Boulder in town, this city is a popular spot for students. It's an outdoor enthusiast's perfect base with many outdoor recreational activities in the area.

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

Philadelphia is a great city for times when you don't have a car. However, Boulder is not known for its public transit.

Public transit in Philadelphia can get you to some places easily. The system includes a subway, trolleys, buses, and a commuter rail.

Public transit is generally limited in Boulder. There are buses that run around town, but you really need a car to fully experience everything that the city has to offer.

Is Philadelphia or Boulder a more walkable city?

Philadelphia is an unbeatable place for its high level of walkability. Also, Boulder is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its ease of walking around.

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

Boulder is a somewhat walkable city. The city has some nice walkable areas and it is very bike-friendly.

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

Should I spend more time in Boulder or Philadelphia?

How long in Philadelphia or Boulder?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Philadelphia and Boulder. In our opinion, Philadelphia has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Philadelphia than Boulder. However, 2-3 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

Families should spend more time in Philadelphia than Boulder. 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 Boulder. 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 Boulder 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.

One day in Philadelphia or Boulder?

Because Philadelphia is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. One reason most visitors come is for the museums. This city offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

In Boulder, many people enjoy the live music and food that this nature-filled city 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 Boulder?

Because Philadelphia is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. One reason most visitors come is for the museums. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Philadelphia has to offer.

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

Five days in Philadelphia or Boulder?

Philadelphia is a great place to explore. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

You'll find shopping and nightlife around the outdoorsy destination of Boulder. Hikers are also drawn to this area. 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 Boulder?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Philadelphia. Many people enjoy the theater and nightlife when visiting Philadelphia. One reason most visitors come is for the museums. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

Boulder 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.

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.

When comparing the travel costs between Philadelphia and Boulder, we can see that Boulder 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 Philadelphia Expensive? and Is Boulder Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Philadelphia or Boulder?

Philadelphia has a larger population, and is about 20 times larger than the population of Boulder. When comparing the sizes of Philadelphia and Boulder, 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.