A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Pittsburgh vs. Sedona for Couples, Attractions, Food, and Nightlife

Should you visit Pittsburgh or Sedona?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Pittsburgh or Sedona, 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.

Pittsburgh

Pittsburgh is a authentic, under-rated, and industrial city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. Visitors also love the museums, nightlife, and food. See Pittsburgh travel costs.

Sedona

Sedona is a striking, desert, and dramatic town. With plenty of activities and sights, this is a small town worth visiting. Many visitors also come to Sedona because of it's amazing beauty. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food. See Sedona travel costs.

Pittsburgh and Sedona: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for shopping
  • Less popular with couples
  • Less popular with backpackers
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Nice resorts
  • Scenic old town
  • Good for hiking
  • Fun shopping
  • Known for its beauty
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Small town charm
  • Impressive beauty


Is there more to do in Pittsburgh or Sedona?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Sedona. Although Pittsburgh and Sedona are both popular with visitors, Sedona has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Sedona is more popular for its food, resorts, historical sights, hiking, shopping, small town charm, and impressive beauty, while Pittsburgh is known for its museums and attractions, nightlife, and big city activities. Sedona is more touristy than Pittsburgh and is known for its stargazing, desert setting, and yoga retreats. It is also home to Red Rock Crossing Park. Pittsburgh is popular for its many bridges, its steel industry, and being the home of "Mr. Roger's Neighborhood".

How is Pittsburgh different from Sedona?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Pittsburgh or Sedona?

Pittsburgh
Sedona

Pittsburgh is great for its historical sights. Also, Sedona is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its sights and museums.

Pittsburgh offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. The museums range from science and nature focused, like the Phipps Conservatory and Botanical Garden, to quirky and artsy, like the Mattress Factory. The Warhol Museum is dedicated to the works of Andy Warhol and it's not to be missed. Also worth a visit is the Heinz History Center, Randyland, and the Carnegie Museums of Art and Natural History.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Sedona. The Sedona Heritage Museum offers a glimpse into the history and culture of the area. There are also many galleries around town.


Is the Food Better in Pittsburgh or Sedona? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Pittsburgh
Sedona

Sedona is great for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Pittsburgh is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Sedona has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. It's grown into a foodie destination with local restaurants that pride themselves on using local ingredients. Mexican food is common but you'll also find cafes, classic American food, and other international options.

Pittsburgh offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. The city is known for its working class roots, and the food is hearty and filling, which is great for those on a budget. Popular local dishes include pierogis, deli sandwiches, Pittsburgh salads (complete with French fries), and hotcakes.

Is Pittsburgh or Sedona Better for Nightlife?

Pittsburgh
Sedona

Pittsburgh is great for nightlife and partying. Also, Sedona is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its evening party scene.

Many people head to Pittsburgh for the nightlife scene. There's an active music and dance scene in town. For the best bars and clubs, head to the Strip and South Side and for live entertainment and casinos check out the North Shore.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Sedona. There are bars, live music venues, and even a casino in town. Breweries are popular and there are also upscale wine bars.

Is Pittsburgh or Sedona Better for Resorts?

Pittsburgh
Sedona

Sedona is great for its luxury resorts. However, Pittsburgh is not a resort destination.

Sedona is a popular resort destination that attracts visitors from everywhere. Upscale resorts with spas, pools, and other amenities offer the perfect backdrop for a desert vacation.

Pittsburgh is not a resort destination.


Is Pittsburgh or Sedona Better for its Old Town?

Pittsburgh
Sedona

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

Sedona has an old town worth visiting. Traditional architecture and historic charm give downtown Sedona a lot of character.

Pittsburgh does not have a historic old town.

Is Pittsburgh or Sedona Better for Hiking?

Pittsburgh
Sedona

Sedona is great for hiking. However, Pittsburgh is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors go to Sedona for the hiking trails. It's red rock cliffs offer the perfect setting for dramatic hikes and breathtaking views. The colors are most impressive at sunrise and sunset and some of the most famous landmarks include Airport Mesa, Cathedral Rock, Bell Rock and Boynton Canyon.

Pittsburgh is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Pittsburgh or Sedona?

Pittsburgh
Sedona

Sedona is a must-visit destination for its shopping areas. Also, Pittsburgh is not as popular, but is still a nice city for shopping.

Many people travel to Sedona specifically to go shopping. It's filled with local artisan shops and art galleries that highlight the region's beauty. Head to Uptown Sedona for some of the best boutiques. You should also check out the Tlaquepaque Arts and Crafts Village, the Sedona Art Center, and Hozho Distinctive Shops and Galleries.

Pittsburgh is a great destination for shopping. You'll find local fashion boutiques and shopping centers in the city's downtown. Other great shopping neighborhoods include Shadyside, Station Square, and Fifth Avenue Place.


Is Pittsburgh or Sedona More Beautiful?

Pittsburgh
Sedona

Sedona is a must-visit destination for its scenery and beauty. However, Pittsburgh is not a destination known for its beauty.

Many visitors also come to Sedona because of it's amazing beauty. The surrounded countryside is filled with dramatic desert landscapes and striking red cliffs.

Pittsburgh is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Pittsburgh or Sedona Better for Families?

Pittsburgh
Sedona

Sedona is great for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Pittsburgh 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 Sedona. There are impressive parks and fun outdoor activities for the whole family. Head to Slide Rock State Park where your kids can enjoy a natural waterslide. There's also the Out of Africa Wildlife Zoo as well as a canyon railroad.

Pittsburgh is a family-friendly place to visit. There's a surprising number of kid-friendly activities packed into this city. Check out the National Aviary or visit the popular Pittsburgh Zoo and Aquarium. There are also kid-focused museums and science centers as well as parks and playgrounds. Also make sure you take the cable car up Duquesne Incline or enjoy a boat ride on one of the rivers as well.

Is Pittsburgh or Sedona Better for Couples?

Pittsburgh
Sedona

Sedona is a must-visit destination for couples. However, Pittsburgh is not a good destination for romance.

Sedona has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. Stargazing in the evening or picnicking in a park during the day. There are countless romantic activities that couples can enjoy. The area is filled with striking natural beauty that is at its best during sunset. Couples will also enjoy fine dining and a variety of outdoor activities.

Pittsburgh is not the best destination for a couple to visit. There are a few good date night activities like taking river cruises, enjoying dinner and show, or going to a Pirate's game.


Is Pittsburgh or Sedona Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Pittsburgh
Sedona

Sedona is a nice place to visit for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Pittsburgh is not a good destination for backpackers.

It's common for backpackers to visit Sedona. You'll find campgrounds, RV parks, and motels in the area, but no real hostels.

Pittsburgh is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. It's usually overlooked by backpackers, but there is some cheap accommodation in town.

Is Pittsburgh or Sedona Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Pittsburgh
Sedona

Pittsburgh is a popular place for times when you don't have a car. However, Sedona is not a good destination for its public transit.

While Pittsburgh offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There are bus and lightrail options through the city's downtown. There's also the unique incline, which is an experience worth doing.

Public transit is generally limited in Sedona. Verde Shuttle offers shuttle routes through town.

Is Pittsburgh or Sedona a more walkable city?

Pittsburgh
Sedona

Pittsburgh and Sedona are good when it comes to walkability.

Pittsburgh is a somewhat walkable city. Some of the attractions are spread out, but if you're willing to do a bit of walking, it's possible to get around on foot.

Sedona is somewhat walkable. If you stay in Uptown Sedona, then the area is walkable, but if you're planning to stay further away then you'll need to have a car.


For even more information, also check out Is Pittsburgh Worth Visiting? and Is Sedona Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Sedona or Pittsburgh?

How long in Pittsburgh or Sedona?

In either Pittsburgh or Sedona, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Sedona than Pittsburgh because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Pittsburgh, and 3-5 days is enough time in Sedona.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Sedona than Pittsburgh 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 Sedona.


  • How many days in Pittsburgh or Sedona? Ideal Length of Stay
    Pittsburgh 2-3 
    Sedona 3-5

One day in Pittsburgh or Sedona?

Many travelers enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the destination of Pittsburgh. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

Sedona might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. Anyone can find something fun to do here. One of the main draws to the area is the shopping. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Pittsburgh or Sedona?

Pittsburgh is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Even though Sedona is a small town, it has plenty of activities to choose from. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. It offers something for everyone. One of the main draws to the area is the shopping. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything.

Five days in Pittsburgh or Sedona?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Pittsburgh. 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.

Sedona, a popular town, is full of activities for travelers. This is a popular place to visit for five days. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. In five days, you should have a good grasp of this town. Your budget might influence how long you stay.


A week in Pittsburgh or Sedona?

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the industrial destination of Pittsburgh. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

Sedona is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. One of the main draws to the area is the shopping. 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.


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, Sedona or Pittsburgh?

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

  • Pittsburgh Prices
    USA Prices
    Sedona Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Pittsburgh $220
    Sedona $200

The average daily cost (per person) in Pittsburgh is $220, while the average daily cost in Sedona is $200. 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 Pittsburgh and Sedona in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Pittsburgh $106
    Sedona $93
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Pittsburgh $212
    Sedona $186
Compare Hotels in Pittsburgh and Sedona

Looking for a hotel in Pittsburgh or Sedona? 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 Pittsburgh


Hotels in Sedona


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: Pittsburgh Hotel Prices and Sedona Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Pittsburgh $22
    Sedona $40

Is it cheaper to fly into Pittsburgh or Sedona?

Prices for flights to both Sedona and Pittsburgh 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
    Pittsburgh $94
    Sedona $83

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Pittsburgh

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

  • Handmade Sushi Cooking Class With Local Chef in Pittsburgh: $75
  • Downtown Pittsburgh Hidden Eats Food Tour with 6 Food Tastings: $95

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Sedona

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

  • The VIP Experience, Chuck Wagon Dinner and Show Tickets: $135
  • Sedona/Flagstaff: Grand Canyon Day Trip with Dinner & Sunset: $252

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Pittsburgh $38
    Sedona $19

Tours and Activities in Pittsburgh

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

  • Best of the Burgh Walking Tour of Pittsburgh: $33
  • Bike the Burgh Tour: $59
  • Black & Ghost Tour: $33
  • Black & Gold Sunset Tour: $33
  • Echoes from the Iron Forge: Pittsburgh Phantoms Ghost Tour: $32
  • Essential Pittsburgh Experience - The One Tour to Take: $75
  • Gems of Pittsburgh Bike Tour: $59
  • HOP ON-HOP OFF TOUR PASS- All Day Sightseeing Tour Pass: $50
  • Holiday Lights Tour: $33
  • JUST THE TOUR - Double Decker bus sightseeing tour of Pittsburgh.: $45
  • Pittsburgh Historic Strip District Libation Tour: $60
  • Pittsburgh Penguins Ice Hockey Game Ticket at PPG Paints Arena: $74

Typical Entertainment Prices in Sedona

For Sedona, here are some examples of average entertainment and activity prices from previous travelers:


  • Red Rock Fantasy Light Show (for 2)
    $10

Tours and Activities in Sedona

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

  • 2 Hours Private Spiritual Healing Tour in the Nature of Sedona: $200
  • Amitabha Stupa and Peace Park Sedona, Arizona Experience: $300
  • Arizona Ghost Adventure: $150
  • Arizona Winery All-Inclusive Tour with Lunch & Tastings: $199
  • Best E-Bike Tour of Sedona with Private Local Guide: $140
  • Best UFO Tour of Sedona: $110
  • Cemetery Ghost Adventure Cottonwood, Az: $45
  • Chuck Wagon Supper & Western Stage Show at Blazin' M Ranch Ticket: $85
  • Everything Sedona (20+ Mile) - Sedona Helicopter Tour: $186
  • Explore Sedona's Vortexes: 2.5 Hour Jeep Tour of Mysticism: $136
  • Five Star AZ Wine Crawler Tour 4- 12 PPL : $139
  • From Flagstaff or Antelope Canyon Full-Day Tour: $306

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Pittsburgh $33
    Sedona $13

Sample the Local Flavors in Pittsburgh

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

  • Pittsburgh Bar Hunt: Party Through Pittsburgh Bar Crawl: $13
  • Wigle Whiskey Rebellion Distillery Tour: $22
  • Beers in the Burgh: Pittsburgh Brewery Walk: $69
  • Bikes & Brews Tour: Pittsburgh Brewery Tour: $89
  • Pittsburgh Signature Guided Brewery Tour: $105

Sample the Local Flavors in Sedona

Also in Sedona, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • Bliss - Sedona’s Most Luxurious Wine Tour - Lunch Included!: $115
  • Sedona-Jerome Scenic Vortex, Wine Tasting Grand Tour. See It All!: $199
  • 4 Hours Private Wine Tour in Sedona: $205
  • The Classic Sedona Wine Tour: $219
  • Voted Best in Sedona-Private Wine Tour of Vortex, Wine & Shopping: $225
  • Private Wine Tour in Sedona, Arizona: $275


When comparing the travel costs between Pittsburgh and Sedona, we can see that Pittsburgh 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 Pittsburgh Expensive? and Is Sedona Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Pittsburgh or Sedona?

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