A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Philadelphia vs. Sun Valley for Attractions, Families, Couples, and Food

Should you visit Philadelphia or Sun Valley?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Philadelphia or Sun Valley, 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. It's also known for nightlife, live music, and food. See Philadelphia travel costs.

Sun Valley

Sun Valley is a outdoorsy, active, and adventurous town. The beauty of Sun Valley is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Visitors also love the shopping, skiing, and nightlife. See Sun Valley travel costs.

Philadelphia and Sun Valley: 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
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Big city activities
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with couples
Pros
  • Popular for skiing
  • Active nightlife
  • Nice resorts
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights


Is there more to do in Philadelphia or Sun Valley?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Philadelphia. Although Philadelphia and Sun Valley 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, and big city activities, while Sun Valley attracts visitors for its skiing, resorts, hiking, and impressive beauty. Sun Valley is more touristy than Philadelphia and is popular for its ski resorts as well as being the home of Ernest Hemingway. 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 Sun Valley?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Philadelphia or Sun Valley Better for Skiing?

Philadelphia
Sun Valley

Sun Valley is a must-visit destination for skiing and snowboarding. However, Philadelphia is not a skiing destination.

The snow ski experience you'll have in Sun Valley is among the best in the world. There are plenty of slopes that are accessible by lift as well as backcountry terrain for those who are more adventurous. The ski areas include Bald Mountain, which is next to Ketchum, and Dollar Mountain, by Sun Valley. Bald Mountain is best for advanced skiers and Dollar Mountain has options for beginners and intermediates.

Philadelphia is not a skiing destination.


Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Philadelphia or Sun Valley?

Philadelphia
Sun Valley

Philadelphia is terrific for its museums and landmarks. However, Sun Valley is a town with minimal options for its historical sights.

Visitors will find world class museums and historical sights in Philadelphia that are not to be missed. 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.

While most people don't head to Sun Valley specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. Museums in the area include the Sun Valley Museum of Art and the Wood River Museum of History and Culture.

Is Philadelphia or Sun Valley Better for Theater?

Philadelphia
Sun Valley

Philadelphia is a great destination for theatre. However, Sun Valley 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.

Sun Valley is not a theatre destination.

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

Philadelphia
Sun Valley

Both Philadelphia and Sun Valley offer a number of great 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 Sun Valley is an experience not to be missed. Many restaurants pride themselves in using local, organic, and sustainable ingredients. You'll find everything from cafes and bakeries to sushi, pizza, and Mediterranean.


Is Philadelphia or Sun Valley Better for Nightlife?

Philadelphia
Sun Valley

Philadelphia is a great destination for nightlife. Also, Sun Valley is still popular, but not quite as popular for nightlife and partying.

The people in Philadelphia know how to have a good time. 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.

If you're looking for night time activities Sun Valley has a few options to choose from. It's a low key town with relaxing bars and breweries where you can enjoy a cold drink after a day on the slopes. It's not a party town that's high energy, but there are plenty of places where you can hang out in a mellow setting.

Is Philadelphia or Sun Valley Better for Music?

Philadelphia
Sun Valley

Philadelphia is a great destination for live music. However, Sun Valley is not a live music destination.

Philadelphia has become a hotbed of musicians and artists. The city's diverse music scene includes jazz, rock, and hip hop.

Sun Valley is not a live music destination.

Is Philadelphia or Sun Valley Better for Resorts?

Philadelphia
Sun Valley

Sun Valley is an excellent place to visit for its luxury resorts. However, Philadelphia is not a resort destination.

Sun Valley is a popular resort destination that attracts visitors from everywhere. The most popular place to stay is Sun Valley Lodge, but there are also other small lodges and hotels in the area.

Philadelphia is not a resort destination.


Is Philadelphia or Sun Valley Better for its Old Town?

Philadelphia
Sun Valley

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

Many visitors go to Philadelphia to see the historical old town. The Old City has a number of Colonial-era sites including Independence Hall, the Liberty Bell, the Betsy Ross House.

Sun Valley does not have a historic old town.

Is Philadelphia or Sun Valley Better for Hiking?

Philadelphia
Sun Valley

Sun Valley 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 Sun Valley. During the warmer months you'll enjoy miles of hiking trails in the area that take you by fields of wildflowers and to scenic mountain overlooks. White Cloud Trails is a relatively easy 4 mile trail that many visitors enjoy. Baker Lake and Taylor Canyon are also nice options.

Philadelphia is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Philadelphia or Sun Valley?

Philadelphia
Sun Valley

Philadelphia is a great destination for shopping. Also, Sun Valley is still popular, but not quite as popular for its shopping opportunities.

Philadelphia is an extremely popular place for shoppers. 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.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Sun Valley. While most visitors spend their time adventuring outdoors, there are also plenty of shopping options in the area. Whether you need to pick up hiking or ski gear, or you want to browse some local boutiques, you'll find shops that meet your need.


Is Philadelphia or Sun Valley More Beautiful?

Philadelphia
Sun Valley

Sun Valley is an excellent place to visit for its scenery and beauty. Also, Philadelphia is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its scenery and beauty.

The beauty of Sun Valley is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. The resort town is surrounded by impressive mountains and pristine natural beauty.

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

Is Philadelphia or Sun Valley Better for Families?

Philadelphia
Sun Valley

Sun Valley 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.

Sun Valley is an amazing family-friendly town to visit. During the winter months there's skiing, ice skating, and other winter activities. During the warmer months families will enjoy riding the Roundhouse Express Gondola, hiking through the mountains, or horseback riding.

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 Sun Valley Better for Couples?

Philadelphia
Sun Valley

Sun Valley is a must-visit destination for its romantic activities. Also, Philadelphia is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for couples.

Sun Valley has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. Couples who enjoy winter sports and outdoor activities will love a romantic getaway to the area. There's also a charming downtown area that has great restaurants. In the surrounding countryside there's plenty of spectacular hikes that couples will enjoy as well.

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 Sun Valley Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Philadelphia
Sun Valley

Sun Valley is an excellent place to visit for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Philadelphia is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for backpackers.

Many backpackers visit Sun Valley. There are a couple of hostels in the area and plenty of activities that appeal to the backpacker crowd.

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

Is Philadelphia or Sun Valley Better for Students?

Philadelphia
Sun Valley

Philadelphia is a great destination for students. However, Sun Valley is not popular with students.

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

Sun Valley is not popular with students.

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

Philadelphia
Sun Valley

Visitors will find great public transit in both Philadelphia and Sun Valley.

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

Many visitors use the public transit system in Sun Valley. There are free shuttle buses that run through Wood River Valley including connections between the Village and Dollar and Bald Mountains. It's also connected to Ketchum and Elkhorn Springs.


Is Philadelphia or Sun Valley a more walkable city?

Philadelphia
Sun Valley

Philadelphia and Sun Valley are world-class 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 Sun Valley on foot is easy. It's easy to walk to almost anything you need if you stay at a conveniently located hotel.

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

Should I spend more time in Sun Valley or Philadelphia?

How long in Philadelphia or Sun Valley?

Both Philadelphia and Sun Valley have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Sun Valley than in Philadelphia. Usually, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Philadelphia, and 3-7 days is enough time in Sun Valley.

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

Couples should spend more time in Philadelphia than Sun Valley. 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.


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

One day in Philadelphia or Sun Valley?

When visiting Philadelphia, people usually allow for lots of time. Anyone can find something fun to do here. One of the main draws to the area is the museums. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

In Sun Valley, many people enjoy the nightlife and food that this adventurous 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 Sun Valley?

When visiting Philadelphia, people usually allow for lots of time. It offers something for everyone. Many people spend a weekend here. One of the main draws to the area is the museums. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this city.

Sun Valley is a fun place to experience. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. 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 Sun Valley?

Philadelphia, a popular city, is full of activities for travelers. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

In Sun Valley, many people enjoy the shopping and skiing that this adventurous 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 Sun Valley?

Philadelphia is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. One of the main draws to the area is the museums. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Sun Valley 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, Sun Valley 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
    Sun Valley Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Philadelphia $224
    Sun Valley $219

The average daily cost (per person) in Philadelphia is $224, while the average daily cost in Sun Valley is $219. 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 Sun Valley in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Philadelphia $119
    Sun Valley $95
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Philadelphia $238
    Sun Valley $190
Compare Hotels in Philadelphia and Sun Valley

Looking for a hotel in Philadelphia or Sun Valley? 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 Sun Valley


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 Sun Valley Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Philadelphia $28
    Sun Valley $61

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Philadelphia

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

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

Is it cheaper to fly into Philadelphia or Sun Valley?

Prices for flights to both Sun Valley 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
    Sun Valley $83
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
    Sun Valley $42
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:

  • Philadelphia Haunted Ghost Smartphone Guided Audio Walking Tour: $7.75
  • Unique Scavenger Hunt Experience in Philadelphia by Operation City Quest: $10
  • The Road to Revolution: A Self-Guided Audio Tour in Philadelphia: $12
  • Philadelphia Architecture: Discover Every American Style on a GPS Audio Tour: $12
  • Philadelphia 76ers Basketball Game Ticket at Wells Fargo Center: $12
  • University of Pennsylvania Scavenger Hunt Experience: $15
  • Experience the season with a scavenger hunt in Philadelphia with Holly Jolly: $20
  • The Constitutional Walking Tour of Philadelphia: $24
  • The Ghosts of Philadelphia Tour: $25
  • Museum of the American Revolution Admission Ticket with Audio Guided Option: $27
  • Revolution and the Founders: History Tour of Philadelphia: $29
  • 90 Minute History Walking Tour of Old City Philadelphia: $29

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Philadelphia $21
    Sun Valley $49

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 comparing the travel costs between Philadelphia and Sun Valley, we can see that Philadelphia 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 Sun Valley Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Philadelphia or Sun Valley?

Philadelphia has a larger population, and is about 1030 times larger than the population of Sun Valley. When comparing the sizes of Philadelphia and Sun Valley, 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.