A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Phoenix vs. Hope for Hiking, Families, Couples, and Backpackers

Should you visit Phoenix or Hope?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Phoenix and Hope can help. It includes a travel cost comparison in addition to other factors. For many travelers, the cost of a destination is a primary consideration when choosing where to go.

Phoenix

Phoenix is a sprawling, desert, and laid back city. Other reasons to visit include shopping, museums, and nightlife. See Phoenix travel costs.

Hope

Hope is a local, small, and friendly town. It's also popular because of the hiking. See Hope travel costs.

Phoenix and Hope: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with backpackers
Pros
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • Less popular for nightlife


Is there more to do in Phoenix or Hope?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Phoenix than Hope, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Phoenix is better known for its museums and attractions, food, nightlife, and shopping, while Hope is more popular for its hiking. Hope is more touristy than Phoenix and is known for its chainsaw carvings and being the filming location of "Rambo." Phoenix is well known for its desert landscapes, high number of golf courses, and year round warm weather. Also, Phoenix is famous for Desert Botanical Garden.

How is Phoenix different from Hope?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Phoenix or Hope?

Phoenix
Hope

Phoenix is very good for its historical sights. However, Hope is not known for its sights and museums.

Phoenix is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. You'll find art, science, and cultural museums around town. Favorites include the Heard Museum, the Phoenix Art Museum, S'edav Va'aki Museum, and the Arizona Science Museum.

Hope offers a handful of options for museums and historical sights. You can check out Hopes Art Gallery, The Sunshine Valley Tashme Museum, or the Hope Museum.


Is the Food Better in Phoenix or Hope? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Phoenix
Hope

Phoenix is very good for its local flavors and cuisine. However, Hope is not known for its local cuisine and restaurants.

There are plenty of up and coming restaurants around Phoenix. There are many mom-and-pop shops around town that serve everything from casual meals to quality steaks. There's also a huge selection of Mexican restaurants, as well as other international options such as sushi, dim sum, and Italian.

You'll find the standard options when it comes to food in Hope. There's a decent selection of casual restaurants with basic dishes and local cuisine.

Is Phoenix or Hope Better for Nightlife?

Phoenix
Hope

Phoenix is very good for nightlife. However, Hope is not known for nightlife and partying.

If you're looking for night time activities Phoenix has a few options to choose from. The best nightlife scene is found in downtown and central Phoenix. There are bars, restaurants, and venues where you can catch a show. North Phoenix also has grown into a popular evening spot with cocktail bars and pubs.

Most people don't head to Hope specifically for the nightlife scene, but you can find a few options. It's a small town but there are some local pubs and bars.

Is Phoenix or Hope Better for Hiking?

Phoenix
Hope

Hope is a great town for hiking. Also, Phoenix is not as popular, but is still a nice city for the nearby hiking options.

Many visitors go to Hope for the hiking trails. There are a range of hikes in the area, like more challenging routes such as Hope Mountain and Wells Peak. For a more casual hike you can check out Rotary Trail, Thacker Marsh Trail, and the Othello Tunnels.

Phoenix offers some nice hiking trails. You don't have to head far out of town for impressive hiking opportunities. You'll find trails that range from easy to challenging, and many pass through other-worldly landscapes. You'll find popular trails in Usery Mountain Regional Park, Papago Park, White Tank Mountain Regional Park, South Mountain Park and many others.


Is the Shopping Better in Phoenix or Hope?

Phoenix
Hope

Phoenix is very good for shopping. However, Hope is not known for its shopping opportunities.

Plenty of visitors enjoy shopping while in Phoenix. There are plenty of shopping centers, outlets, and malls where you'll find the standard chain stores. You'll also find farmer's markets around town.

If you're looking to go shopping, Hope has some nice offerings. It's a small town, but there are places to peak up anything you may have forgotten.

Is Phoenix or Hope Better for Families?

Phoenix
Hope

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

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Hope. Kids will love enjoying the outdoors just as much as the adults. You can also visit the Hope Museum or the Coquihalla Gorge.

Phoenix is a family-friendly place to visit. Kids will love the Phoenix Zoo, the Arizona Science Center, the SEA LIFE Arizona Aquarium, and the Bearizona Wildlife Park. There's also a number of parks and gardens as well as a children's museum and several other interactive museums for kids.

Is Phoenix or Hope Better for Couples?

Phoenix
Hope

Hope is a great town for couples. Also, Phoenix is not as popular, but is still a nice city for romance.

Hope is a great town if you're traveling as a couple. Couples who enjoy adventures and nature will love a few days in this beautiful area.

Phoenix is a nice destination for couples. There are many parks and gardens in town as well as beautiful hikes and outdoor activities that couples will enjoy. In the evening, there's theater, shows, and many romantic restaurants.


Is Phoenix or Hope Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Phoenix
Hope

Hope is a great town for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Phoenix is not known for backpackers.

Plenty of budget travelers and backpackers visit Hope. There are many camping and backpacking opportunities in the area.

Phoenix is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. There is a hostel or two around town for budget travelers.

Is Phoenix or Hope Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Phoenix
Hope

Phoenix is adequate for times when you don't have a car. However, Hope is not known for its public transit.

Public transit is mostly limited in Phoenix. There's a bus and light rail system, but you really need your own vehicle to get around.

Public transit is limited or non-existant in Hope. There is no public transit in town.

Is Phoenix or Hope a more walkable city?

Phoenix
Hope

Phoenix and Hope are respectable when it comes to walkability.

Phoenix is generally not a very walkable city. It's a sprawling city and the only real area that's walkable is the downtown.

Hope is generally not very walkable. The town is relatively walkable, but you'll likely want to get into the surrounding area where most of the activities are.


For even more information, also check out Is Phoenix Worth Visiting? and Is Hope Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Hope or Phoenix?

How long in Phoenix or Hope?

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

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


  • How many days in Phoenix or Hope? Ideal Length of Stay
    Phoenix 1-3 
    Hope 2-3

One day in Phoenix or Hope?

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the destination of Phoenix. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One day is usually enough time to experience most activities.

In Hope, you'll find . Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. This town offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

A weekend in Phoenix or Hope?

Phoenix is a fun place to experience. 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.

In Hope, you'll find . The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Hope has to offer.

Five days in Phoenix or Hope?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the sprawling destination of Phoenix. This city offers something for everyone. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Hope is a great place to explore. Hikers are also drawn to this area. 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.


A week in Phoenix or Hope?

The sprawling city of Phoenix offers nightlife and food. 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Hope. Many people enjoy the when visiting Hope. 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.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from New York City, The Best 2-Week Tours from New York City, The Best 10-Day Tours from Vancouver, and The Best Family-Friendly Tours to Canada.


Which place is cheaper, Hope or Phoenix?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations. These travel costs come from the actual spending of real travelers.

The average daily cost (per person) in Phoenix is $276, while the average daily cost in Hope is $47. 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 Phoenix and Hope in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Phoenix $144
    Hope $8.89
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Phoenix $288
    Hope $18
Compare Hotels in Phoenix and Hope

Looking for a hotel in Phoenix or Hope? 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 Phoenix


Hotels in Hope


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: Phoenix Hotel Prices and Hope Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Phoenix $39
    Hope -

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Phoenix

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

  • Sky Harbor Airport Private Transfer: $195
  • Departure Private Transfer: Phoenix to Sky Harbor Airport PHX in Luxury Van: $154
  • Private Transfer: Phoenix Airport PHX to Scottsdale by Luxury SUV: $152
  • Private Transfer: Phoenix Airport PHX to Scottsdale by Sedan Car: $125
  • Private Transfer Phoenix Airport PHX to Phoenix Downtown / Hotels: $110
  • One-Way Transfer Sky Harbor Airport to Phoenix: $104
  • Phoenix to Phoenix Sky Harbor Airport (PHX) - Departure Private Transfer: $84
  • Phoenix Sky Harbor Airport (PHX) Private Transfer: $80
  • One Way Airport Transfer Service: $68

Is it cheaper to fly into Phoenix or Hope?

Prices for flights to both Hope and Phoenix 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
    Phoenix $90
    Hope $38
Typical Food Prices in Phoenix

Here are some examples of typical meal expenses from previous travelers to Phoenix:


  • Nice Lunch (for 2)
    $36
  • Indian Food Dinner (for 2)
    $32

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Phoenix

For Phoenix, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Sushi Making Cooking Class at a Local Wine Bar: $75
  • Pasta Making Cooking Class at a Local Brewery in Phoenix: $75
  • Secret Food Tours Phoenix: $92
  • Phoenix Food Tour on Trendy Roosevelt Row with 7 Food Tastings: $95
  • Old Town Scottsdale Food Tour: $95
  • Scottsdale Waterfront Food Tour: $95
  • Scottsdale Old Town Food Tour of Hidden Gems with 6 Food Tastings: $105
  • Sunset at Desert Botanical Garden: Dinner & Walking Tour : $135

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Phoenix $40
    Hope -

Tours and Activities in Phoenix

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Phoenix.

  • Phoenix South Mountain Hiking Tour Experience: $64
  • 1-2 Hour Sonoran Desert Private Guided Hiking Tour: $70
  • 1.5 Hour Stretch Limo Golf Cart Tour, Ultimate Old Town Exploration: $89
  • 2 Hour Private Walking Tour in the Festive of Phoenix : $261
  • 2 Hour Scottsdale Segway Tours - Ultimate Old Town Exploration: $69
  • 2 Hour Segway Tour - Sunsets, Segways & City Lights: $75
  • 2.5 Hour FAT Tire E-Bike Tour – Scottsdale Greenbelt Adventure: $115
  • 3 Hour Guided TomCar ATV Experience in Sonoran Desert: $237
  • 3 Hour Sonoran Desert Private Guided Mountain Bike Tour: $135
  • Ancient Ruins Tour - Guided Arizona Desert Tour by UTV: $150
  • Apache Trail and Dolly Steamboat Van Tour: $160
  • Apache Trail w/Dolly Steamboat Full Day Small Group Tour: $169

Tours and Activities in Hope

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Hope.

  • From Vancouver: 2-Day Kelowna Wine, Lake, and Farm Tour: $296
  • From Vancouver: 3-Day Tour to Manning Park, Nelson & Osoyoos: $379

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Phoenix $17
    Hope $10

Sample the Local Flavors in Phoenix

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Phoenix:

  • Phoenix Bar Crawl: $15
  • Pedal Bar Crawl Tour of Downtown Phoenix: $70
  • Pedal Bar Crawl of Old Town Scottsdale: $70
  • Stretch Limo Party Cart - Custom Bar Crawls, Wine Tastings, Night Clubs & More: $189
  • Ultimate Bachelorette Party-Wine Tasting From Scottsdale/Phoenix: $200


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

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


Which is Bigger, Phoenix or Hope?

Phoenix has a larger population, and is about 290 times larger than the population of Hope. When comparing the sizes of Phoenix and Hope, 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 Phoenix or Hope?

Both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. And since both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Phoenix or Hope in the Summer?

Both Hope and Phoenix are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Phoenix in the summer for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Hope for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

The heat can be very extreme in Phoenix. In the summer, Phoenix is much warmer than Hope. Typically, the summer temperatures in Phoenix in July average around 98°F (36°C), and Hope averages at about 18°C (64°F).

In July, Phoenix usually receives less rain than Hope. Phoenix gets 0.8 inches (21 mm) of rain, while Hope receives 51 mm (2 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Phoenix 98°F (36°C) 
    Hope 18°C (64°F)

Should I visit Phoenix or Hope in the Autumn?

Both Hope and Phoenix during the autumn are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Phoenix for the hiking trails and the shopping scene during these months. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Hope because of the hiking trails and the shopping scene.

In October, Phoenix is generally much warmer than Hope. Daily temperatures in Phoenix average around 79°F (26°C), and Hope fluctuates around 10°C (51°F).

Hope gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Phoenix usually gets less rain in October than Hope. Phoenix gets 0.7 inches (17 mm) of rain, while Hope receives 156 mm (6.1 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Phoenix 79°F (26°C) 
    Hope 10°C (51°F)

Should I visit Phoenix or Hope in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Phoenix and Hope. The winter months attract visitors to Phoenix because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Hope this time of year.

It's quite cold in Hope in the winter. Phoenix is much warmer than Hope in the winter. The daily temperature in Phoenix averages around 58°F (14°C) in January, and Hope fluctuates around 3°C (37°F).

Hope receives a lot of rain in the winter. In January, Phoenix usually receives less rain than Hope. Phoenix gets 0.7 inches (17 mm) of rain, while Hope receives 201 mm (7.9 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Phoenix 58°F (14°C) 
    Hope 3°C (37°F)

Should I visit Phoenix or Hope in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Phoenix as well as Hope.

In the spring, Phoenix is much warmer than Hope. Typically, the spring temperatures in Phoenix in April average around 74°F (23°C), and Hope averages at about 9°C (49°F).

It's quite rainy in Hope. Phoenix usually gets less rain in April than Hope. Phoenix gets 0.2 inches (6 mm) of rain, while Hope receives 114 mm (4.5 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Phoenix 74°F (23°C) 
    Hope 9°C (49°F)

Typical Weather for Hope and Phoenix

Phoenix Hope
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 58°F (14°C) 0.7 inches (17 mm) 3°C (37°F) 201 mm (7.9 in)
Feb 62°F (17°C) 0.7 inches (17 mm) 5°C (41°F) 164 mm (6.4 in)
Mar 66°F (19°C) 0.9 inches (22 mm) 7°C (44°F) 145 mm (5.7 in)
Apr 74°F (23°C) 0.2 inches (6 mm) 9°C (49°F) 114 mm (4.5 in)
May 83°F (28°C) 0.1 inches (3 mm) 12°C (54°F) 89 mm (3.5 in)
Jun 92°F (34°C) 0.1 inches (3 mm) 15°C (60°F) 67 mm (2.6 in)
Jul 98°F (36°C) 0.8 inches (21 mm) 18°C (64°F) 51 mm (2 in)
Aug 96°F (35°C) 0.9 inches (24 mm) 18°C (64°F) 53 mm (2.1 in)
Sep 90°F (32°C) 0.9 inches (22 mm) 15°C (59°F) 85 mm (3.4 in)
Oct 79°F (26°C) 0.7 inches (17 mm) 10°C (51°F) 156 mm (6.1 in)
Nov 66°F (19°C) 0.7 inches (18 mm) 6°C (43°F) 222 mm (8.7 in)
Dec 58°F (15°C) 1 inches (25 mm) 3°C (37°F) 217 mm (8.5 in)