A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Philadelphia vs. Vernon for Attractions, Food, Nightlife, and Families

Should you visit Philadelphia or Vernon?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Philadelphia or Vernon, 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. Other popular activities here include food, shopping, and museums. See Philadelphia travel costs.

Vernon

Vernon is a relaxing, quiet, and peaceful town. Visitors also love the hiking, shopping, and museums. See Vernon travel costs.

Philadelphia and Vernon: 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
  • Good public transit
  • Very walkable
  • Big city activities
Pros
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less popular with backpackers
  • Public transit not as usable
  • Less walkable


Is there more to do in Philadelphia or Vernon?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Philadelphia. Although Philadelphia and Vernon are both popular with visitors, Philadelphia has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Philadelphia is more popular for its museums and attractions, theatre productions, food, nightlife, music, historical sights, shopping, christmas markets, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Vernon is known for its hiking. Philadelphia is popular 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. Vernon is popular for its surrounding valley with lakes and hiking trails.

How is Philadelphia different from Vernon?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Vernon 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 Vernon?

Philadelphia
Vernon

Philadelphia is terrific for its sights and museums. Also, Vernon is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its museums and history.

You'll find many recognizable landmarks that put Philadelphia on the map. 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.

Vernon is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. There are local galleries and museums that offer information on the region's history and culture. You can visit the Canadian Wildlife Museum, the Caetani Center, the Museum and Archives of Vernon, the Paddlewheel Park Stationhouse Museum, and the Vernon Public Art Gallery.


Is Philadelphia or Vernon Better for Theater?

Philadelphia
Vernon

Philadelphia is a well-known place for its shows and theatre. However, Vernon is not a theatre destination.

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.

Vernon is not a theatre destination.

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

Philadelphia
Vernon

Philadelphia is a well-known place for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Vernon is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its restaurants.

Dining out in Philadelphia is an experience not to be missed. 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 plenty of up and coming restaurants around Vernon. The region is known for its vineyards and wineries and many of the local restaurants have been around for generations. The food is often locally produced and prepared with traditional recipes.

Is Philadelphia or Vernon Better for Nightlife?

Philadelphia
Vernon

Philadelphia is a well-known place for its evening party scene. However, Vernon is not a good town for nightlife.

Philadelphia offers plenty to do in the evening. 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.

Those looking for nightlife will find a few places to hang out in Vernon. The town gets very quiet in the evenings, so you won't find much of a nightlife scene.


Is Philadelphia or Vernon Better for Music?

Philadelphia
Vernon

Philadelphia is a well-known place for its music scene. However, Vernon is not a live music destination.

The music scene in Philadelphia is very popular with diverse venues. The city's diverse music scene includes jazz, rock, and hip hop.

Vernon is not a live music destination.

Is Philadelphia or Vernon Better for its Old Town?

Philadelphia
Vernon

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

Philadelphia offers a nice historic old town area. The Old City has a number of Colonial-era sites including Independence Hall, the Liberty Bell, the Betsy Ross House.

Vernon does not have a historic old town.

Is Philadelphia or Vernon Better for Hiking?

Philadelphia
Vernon

Vernon 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 Vernon. The surrounding valley has more than 300 kilometers of hiking trails. They run along pristine lakes, pass by granite rock formations, and take you to impressive viewpoints.

Philadelphia is not a hiking destination.


Is the Shopping Better in Philadelphia or Vernon?

Philadelphia
Vernon

Philadelphia is a well-known place for its shopping areas. Also, Vernon is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for shopping.

Browsing through shops is a popular activity 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.

Plenty of visitors enjoy shopping while in Vernon. There are a number of boutique shops that are fun to explore in the downtown area.

Is Philadelphia or Vernon More Beautiful?

Philadelphia
Vernon

Philadelphia is a nice place to visit for its scenery and beauty. However, Vernon 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.

Vernon is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Philadelphia or Vernon Better for Families?

Philadelphia
Vernon

Philadelphia is a well-known place for its family-friendly activities. Also, Vernon is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

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.

Vernon is a family-friendly city. There are biking and hiking trails as well as other outdoor activities. You can also visit the Allan Brooks Nature Center or the Rock Garden Climbing Center.


Is Philadelphia or Vernon Better for Couples?

Philadelphia
Vernon

Philadelphia and Vernon are both good 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.

Vernon is a good city for couples to visit. It offers a peaceful getaway for couples. You can visit the Okanagan wineries or enjoy one of the many hiking trails. There are also nice restaurants to try.

Is Philadelphia or Vernon Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Philadelphia
Vernon

Philadelphia is a nice place to visit for backpackers. However, Vernon is not a good town for backpackers and budget travelers.

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

Vernon is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. There is a hostel in town, but this isn't a popular destination for backpackers.

Is Philadelphia or Vernon Better for Students?

Philadelphia
Vernon

Philadelphia is a well-known place for students. However, Vernon 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.

Vernon is not popular with students.


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

Philadelphia
Vernon

Philadelphia is a well-known place for its public transit. However, Vernon is not a good town for times when you don't have a car.

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

Public transit is mostly limited in Vernon. There is a bus system, but it's better not to rely on it.

Is Philadelphia or Vernon a more walkable city?

Philadelphia
Vernon

Philadelphia is terrific for its ease of walking around. However, Vernon is not a good town for its walkability.

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

Vernon is generally not a very walkable city. You'll really want to have a car to make the most of your time here.

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

Should I spend more time in Vernon or Philadelphia?

How long in Philadelphia or Vernon?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Philadelphia and Vernon. In our opinion, Philadelphia has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Philadelphia than Vernon. In general, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Philadelphia, and 1-3 days is enough time in Vernon.

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

One day in Philadelphia or Vernon?

Philadelphia is a bustling city that offers something for everyone. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

In Vernon, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this quiet town offers. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. In one day, you should have a good grasp of this town.


A weekend in Philadelphia or Vernon?

Philadelphia is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. Don't miss the museums, as that's what most people do. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Vernon 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 Vernon?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Philadelphia. Don't miss the museums, as that's what most people do. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

You'll find food and shopping around the quiet destination of Vernon. 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 Vernon?

Travelers enjoy the museums and theater when visiting the historic big city of Philadelphia. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

Vernon 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 Coach Bus Tours in Canada, and The Best Adventure Tours to Canada.


Which place is cheaper, Vernon 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
    Vernon Prices
    Canada Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Philadelphia $224
    Vernon $49

The average daily cost (per person) in Philadelphia is $224, while the average daily cost in Vernon is $49. 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 Vernon in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Philadelphia $119
    Vernon $4.81
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Philadelphia $238
    Vernon $9.62
Compare Hotels in Philadelphia and Vernon

Looking for a hotel in Philadelphia or Vernon? 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 Vernon


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 Vernon Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Philadelphia $28
    Vernon -

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Philadelphia

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

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

Is it cheaper to fly into Philadelphia or Vernon?

Prices for flights to both Vernon 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
    Vernon $43
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
    Vernon -
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
    Vernon $13

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 Vernon, we can see that Philadelphia is more expensive. And not only is Vernon much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Vernon would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Vernon 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 Vernon.

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


Which is Bigger, Philadelphia or Vernon?

Philadelphia has a larger population, and is about 30 times larger than the population of Vernon. When comparing the sizes of Philadelphia and Vernon, 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.


When is the best time to visit Philadelphia or Vernon?

Both places have a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. As both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Philadelphia or Vernon in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Philadelphia as well as Vernon. The summer months attract visitors to Philadelphia because of the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, the hiking and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Vernon this time of year.

In the summer, Philadelphia is around the same temperature as Vernon. Typically, the summer temperatures in Philadelphia in July average around 77°F (25°C), and Vernon averages at about 23°C (73°F).

Philadelphia receives a lot of rain in the summer. Philadelphia usually gets more rain in July than Vernon. Philadelphia gets 3.9 inches (100 mm) of rain, while Vernon receives 28 mm (1.1 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Philadelphia 77°F (25°C) 
    Vernon 23°C (73°F)

Should I visit Philadelphia or Vernon in the Autumn?

Both Vernon and Philadelphia are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Philadelphia this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Vernon for the hiking trails and the shopping scene.

In October, Philadelphia is generally a little warmer than Vernon. Daily temperatures in Philadelphia average around 56°F (14°C), and Vernon fluctuates around 11°C (51°F).

In October, Philadelphia usually receives more rain than Vernon. Philadelphia gets 1.9 inches (48 mm) of rain, while Vernon receives 14 mm (0.6 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Philadelphia 56°F (14°C) 
    Vernon 11°C (51°F)

Should I visit Philadelphia or Vernon in the Winter?

Both Vernon and Philadelphia during the winter are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Philadelphia for the museums, the Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine. Furthermore, many visitors come to Vernon in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Vernon can get quite cold in the winter. Be prepared for some very cold days in Philadelphia. Philadelphia is much warmer than Vernon in the winter. The daily temperature in Philadelphia averages around 30°F (-1°C) in January, and Vernon fluctuates around -3°C (27°F).

Philadelphia usually gets more rain in January than Vernon. Philadelphia gets 2.3 inches (58 mm) of rain, while Vernon receives 26 mm (1 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Philadelphia 30°F (-1°C) 
    Vernon -3°C (27°F)

Should I visit Philadelphia or Vernon in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Philadelphia and Vernon. Many visitors come to Philadelphia in the spring for the activities around the city and the natural beauty.

In the spring, Philadelphia is around the same temperature as Vernon. Typically, the spring temperatures in Philadelphia in April average around 52°F (11°C), and Vernon averages at about 12°C (53°F).

In April, Philadelphia usually receives more rain than Vernon. Philadelphia gets 2.8 inches (70 mm) of rain, while Vernon receives 15 mm (0.6 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Philadelphia 52°F (11°C) 
    Vernon 12°C (53°F)

Typical Weather for Vernon and Philadelphia

Philadelphia Vernon
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 30°F (-1°C) 2.3 inches (58 mm) -3°C (27°F) 26 mm (1 in)
Feb 33°F (1°C) 2.1 inches (54 mm) 2°C (35°F) 14 mm (0.6 in)
Mar 42°F (6°C) 2.7 inches (68 mm) 7°C (44°F) 10 mm (0.4 in)
Apr 52°F (11°C) 2.8 inches (70 mm) 12°C (53°F) 15 mm (0.6 in)
May 63°F (17°C) 2.8 inches (70 mm) 16°C (61°F) 22 mm (0.9 in)
Jun 72°F (22°C) 3 inches (76 mm) 21°C (69°F) 29 mm (1.1 in)
Jul 77°F (25°C) 3.9 inches (100 mm) 23°C (73°F) 28 mm (1.1 in)
Aug 76°F (24°C) 3 inches (75 mm) 23°C (73°F) 30 mm (1.2 in)
Sep 68°F (20°C) 2.8 inches (71 mm) 17°C (63°F) 28 mm (1.1 in)
Oct 56°F (14°C) 1.9 inches (48 mm) 11°C (51°F) 14 mm (0.6 in)
Nov 46°F (8°C) 2.5 inches (64 mm) 4°C (39°F) 22 mm (0.9 in)
Dec 36°F (2°C) 2.7 inches (69 mm) -1°C (30°F) 33 mm (1.3 in)