A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Phoenix vs. Saskatoon for Attractions, Food, Nightlife, and Families

Should you visit Phoenix or Saskatoon?

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 Saskatoon 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 desert, laid back, and sprawling city. And you can't forget about the food, hiking, and shopping. See Phoenix travel costs.

Saskatoon

Saskatoon is a authentic, cultural, and friendly city. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food. See Saskatoon travel costs.

Phoenix and Saskatoon: 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
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with backpackers


Is there more to do in Phoenix or Saskatoon?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Phoenix than Saskatoon, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Phoenix is popular for its desert landscapes, high number of golf courses, and year round warm weather. It is also home to Desert Botanical Garden. Saskatoon is popular for its agriculture and outdoor spaces.

How is Phoenix different from Saskatoon?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Phoenix
Saskatoon

You'll find a number of good museums and attractions in both Saskatoon and Phoenix.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Phoenix. 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.

Saskatoon is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. There are some museums and historical sites to check out such as Fort Battleford National Historic Site, Batoche National Historic Site, and the Saskatchewan Indigenous Cultural Centre.


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

Phoenix
Saskatoon

Dining out at restaurants in both Phoenix and Saskatoon can be an enjoyable experience.

Phoenix is becoming an appealing option for foodies. 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.

Saskatoon offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. There's a great food scene around town with diverse restaurants and cuisines to choose from. You can sample dim sum, Mexican, Middle Eastern, Indian, and many more.

Is Phoenix or Saskatoon Better for Nightlife?

Phoenix
Saskatoon

If the nightlife is your priority, you'll find good options in both Phoenix and Saskatoon.

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.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Saskatoon. There are enough clubs and bars around town to keep things entertaining. Most cater to a younger crowd, but the vibe is fun and full of energy.

Is Phoenix or Saskatoon Better for Hiking?

Phoenix
Saskatoon

Phoenix is a good destination for the nearby hiking options. However, Saskatoon is not a hiking destination.

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.

Saskatoon is not a hiking destination.


Is the Shopping Better in Phoenix or Saskatoon?

Phoenix
Saskatoon

If you're looking to go shopping, Phoenix and Saskatoon both offer plenty of good spots.

Phoenix has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. 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.

Saskatoon is a great destination for shopping. A number of brands have opened stores in the downtown area in recent years, so the shopping scene continues to grow and diversify.

Is Phoenix or Saskatoon Better for Families?

Phoenix
Saskatoon

Both Phoenix and Saskatoon are good to visit with kids.

Phoenix offers lots of family activities. 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.

Saskatoon is a family-friendly place to visit. It's filled with indoor and outdoor play areas. Make sure you check out the Nutrien Wonderhub as well as the countless playgrounds around town.

Is Phoenix or Saskatoon Better for Couples?

Phoenix
Saskatoon

Both Phoenix and Saskatoon are good destinations for a couple's getaway.

Phoenix is a good city for couples to visit. 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.

Saskatoon is a nice destination for couples. There are plenty of evening activities like dining out at a nice restaurant or taking in a show at the Persephone Theatre.


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

Phoenix
Saskatoon

Phoenix and Saskatoon both offer decent public transit to get you around.

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 generally limited in Saskatoon. There is a bus system around town.

Is Phoenix or Saskatoon a more walkable city?

Phoenix
Saskatoon

Saskatoon is a city with good options for its ease of walking around. However, Phoenix is not known for its walkability.

Saskatoon is a somewhat walkable city. The downtown is walkable and easy to explore on foot.

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

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

Should I spend more time in Saskatoon or Phoenix?

How long in Phoenix or Saskatoon?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Phoenix and Saskatoon. You can spend similar amounts of time exploring each one. However, 1-3 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

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


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

One day in Phoenix or Saskatoon?

You'll find shopping and museums around the city of Phoenix. One day is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Phoenix has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

In Saskatoon, you'll find nightlife and food. This city offers something for everyone. This would be the perfect place to spend one day, as it has just the right amount of activities.


A weekend in Phoenix or Saskatoon?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the sprawling destination of Phoenix. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

In Saskatoon, you'll find food and shopping. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Saskatoon has to offer.

Five days in Phoenix or Saskatoon?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the sprawling city of Phoenix. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Saskatoon 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.

A week in Phoenix or Saskatoon?

Phoenix is a popular choice for travelers. 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 will give you the chance to have new experiences.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Saskatoon. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Saskatoon. 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 Family-Friendly Tours to Canada, and The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in Canada.


Which place is cheaper, Saskatoon or Phoenix?

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

  • Phoenix Prices
    USA Prices
    Saskatoon Prices
    Canada Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Phoenix $276
    Saskatoon $149

The average daily cost (per person) in Phoenix is $276, while the average daily cost in Saskatoon is $149. 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 Saskatoon in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Phoenix $144
    Saskatoon $54
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Phoenix $288
    Saskatoon $108
Compare Hotels in Phoenix and Saskatoon

Looking for a hotel in Phoenix or Saskatoon? 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 Saskatoon


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 Saskatoon Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Phoenix $39
    Saskatoon $32

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Phoenix

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

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

Is it cheaper to fly into Phoenix or Saskatoon?

Prices for flights to both Saskatoon 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
    Saskatoon $54
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
    Saskatoon $17

Tours and Activities in Phoenix

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

  • Old Town Scottsdale's Art District: A Self-Guided Tour: $9.99
  • Scavenger Hunt Adventure in Scottsdale by Operation City Quest: $10
  • Phoenix Suns Basketball Game Ticket: $10
  • Scottsdale Audio Tour Adventure: $15
  • SEA LIFE Aquarium Arizona Admission Ticket: $18
  • Hall of Flame Museum of Firefighting Entry Ticket: $19
  • Scavenger Hunt Adventure in Mesa by Zombie Scavengers: $20
  • Historic Walking Tour: $25
  • RoRo Street Art Walking Tour: $25
  • Wings of Fire & Whispers of the Desert Phoenix Ghost Tours: $27
  • Drunk Shakespeare Ticket: Phoenix, AZ: $29
  • Ultimate Dead of Night Walking Ghost Tour: $30

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Phoenix $17
    Saskatoon $9.60

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

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


Which is Bigger, Phoenix or Saskatoon?

Phoenix has a larger population, and is about 7 times larger than the population of Saskatoon. When comparing the sizes of Phoenix and Saskatoon, 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.