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

Should you visit Philadelphia or Vail?

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

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

Vail

Vail is a picturesque, scenic, and vibrant ski town. You'll find plenty of local activities in this small town. The beauty of Vail is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. It also has a unique and quaint vibe that attracts lots of visitors. Visitors also love the nightlife, live music, and food. See Vail travel costs.

Philadelphia and Vail: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Philadelphia or Vail?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Philadelphia than Vail, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Philadelphia is better known for its museums and attractions, theatre productions, food, music, historical sights, and big city activities, while Vail is more popular for its skiing, resorts, hiking, christmas markets, small town charm, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere. Vail is more touristy than Philadelphia and is known for its world-class skiing, charming mountain town atmosphere, and adventurous outdoor activities. 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.

How is Philadelphia different from Vail?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Philadelphia or Vail Better for Skiing?

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

The snow ski experience you'll have in Vail is among the best in the world. This ski town has produced its share of Olympians. Vail is the third largest ski resort in the US and it has 31 lifts and 195 runs. There are five different bowls that offer beautiful views.

Philadelphia is not a skiing destination.

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

Philadelphia is a must-visit destination for its historical sights. However, Vail does not have museums and landmarks.

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.

Vail does not have museums and landmarks.

Is Philadelphia or Vail Better for Theater?

Philadelphia is a great city for its theatre productions. However, Vail 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.

Vail is not a theatre destination.

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

Philadelphia is a great city for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Vail is not as popular, but is still a nice ski town 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 Vail area. The town has a diverse sampling of restaurants that include different ethnic options as well as taverns with comfort food. It's easy to find mountain-friendly restaurants where you can refuel during your ski vacation.

Is Philadelphia or Vail Better for Nightlife?

Both Philadelphia and Vail have very good vibes after the sun sets.

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.

The people in Vail know how to have a good time. Happy Hours start early, and then the partying can go late into the night. There are bars, lounges, breweries and live music that keep the atmosphere light and offer entertainment after your long day on the slopes. Do keep in mind that many places close or dramatically reduce their hours during the off-peak fall and spring months.

Is Philadelphia or Vail Better for Music?

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

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

Music lovers will find a few good venues in Vail. You can often find live music at Shakedown Bar, Bridge Street Bar, and the Red Lion.

Is Philadelphia or Vail Better for Resorts?

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

Vail is a popular resort destination that attracts visitors from everywhere. Designed as a resort town, Vail offers great accommodation. Nice resorts include Four Seasons Resort and Residences, the Ritz Carlton Club, and the Grand Hyatt.

Philadelphia is not a resort destination.

Is Philadelphia or Vail Better for its Old Town?

Philadelphia is a popular place for its old town. However, Vail 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.

Vail does not have a historic old town.

Is Philadelphia or Vail Better for Hiking?

Vail 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 Vail. During the warmer months, this resort town is surrounded by world-class hiking trails. You can enjoy the wildflowers, search for wildlife, or take in the sweeping mountain views. Popular hikes near Vail include Booth Falls, Davos Trail, and Shrine Ridge.

Philadelphia is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Philadelphia or Vail?

Shoppers can find a variety of very good stores in both Philadelphia and Vail.

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.

Browsing through shops is a popular activity in Vail. The cobblestone streets are lined with boutiques and ski shops that sell everything from evening dresses to outdoor gear. It's easy to pop into the many shops around downtown Vail and find anything you might need.

Is Philadelphia or Vail More Beautiful?

Vail 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 Vail is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. It is a beautiful town that has stunning views of the surrounding mountains.

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 Vail Better for Families?

Vail 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.

Vail is an amazing family-friendly ski town to visit. With its world class skiing, rock climbing, ice skating, and ice cream, kids love this ski resort. The resort town has two terrain parks - Golden Peak and Avanti. Avanti is perfect for kids. It has small jumps, wide rails, and kid-friendly amenities. Golden Peak is designed for more advanced athletes. Vail also has nice beginner slopes that are great for kids.

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 Vail Better for Couples?

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

Vail has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. Couples who enjoy skiing and outdoor adventure will appreciate everything that this ski town has to offer. There are nice restaurants, beautiful gardens, and plenty of romantic activities to choose from.

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 Vail Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Philadelphia and Vail 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.

Vail is a good city to visit for backpackers. This ski town isn't completely closed off to budget travelers as there are a couple of hostels around town.

Is Philadelphia or Vail Better for Students?

Philadelphia is a great city for its student-friendly activities. However, Vail 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.

Vail is not popular with students.

Is Philadelphia or Vail 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. Also, Vail is not as popular, but is still a nice ski town 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.

Vail has a few public transit options. There is a free bus service through the area.

Is Philadelphia or Vail a more walkable city?

Philadelphia and Vail are fantastic 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 Vail on foot is easy. The main downtown is pedestrian-only and perfect for popping in shops and restaurants.

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

Should I spend more time in Vail or Philadelphia?

How long in Philadelphia or Vail?

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

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Philadelphia than Vail 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 Vail?

Philadelphia is a big city destination where you can fill many days. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

Vail is a small town where visitors enjoy the food and shopping. 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 Vail?

Philadelphia is a fun place to experience. Most people visit for the museums. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. A weekend is often enough time to do most activities. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Vail 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 Vail?

You'll find live music and food around the diverse big city of Philadelphia. This city offers something for everyone. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Vail might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. 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 Vail?

The historic city of Philadelphia offers food and shopping. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. One week 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.

Vail 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.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Philadelphia and Vail, we can see that Vail 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 Vail would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Vail 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 Vail Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Philadelphia or Vail?

Philadelphia has a larger population, and is about 330 times larger than the population of Vail. When comparing the sizes of Philadelphia and Vail, 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.