A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Pittsburgh vs. Whistler for Families, Attractions, Food, and Nightlife

Should you visit Pittsburgh or Whistler?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Pittsburgh or Whistler, 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 industrial, authentic, and under-rated city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. It's also known for nightlife, food, and shopping. See Pittsburgh travel costs.

Whistler

Whistler is a charming, adventurous, and outdoorsy village. With fun activities and sights, this is a small town worth visiting. With stunning beauty, Whistler attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the shopping, skiing, and nightlife. See Whistler travel costs.

Pittsburgh and Whistler: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Pittsburgh or Whistler?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Whistler than Pittsburgh, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Whistler is better known for its skiing, food, resorts, hiking, small town charm, and impressive beauty, while Pittsburgh is more popular for its museums and attractions and big city activities. Whistler is more touristy than Pittsburgh and is popular for its world renowned skiing and snowboarding. Also, Whistler is famous for Cloudraker Skybridge. Pittsburgh is well known for its many bridges, its steel industry, and being the home of "Mr. Roger's Neighborhood".

How is Pittsburgh different from Whistler?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Pittsburgh or Whistler Better for Skiing?

Whistler is a must-visit destination for skiing. However, Pittsburgh is not a skiing destination.

The snow ski experience you'll have in Whistler is among the best in the world. Whistler is the largest ski resort in North America. It covers a vast area that includes two peaks - Whistler and Blackcomb. The slopes are connected by lifts and gondolas and there are options for every level, from beginner to expert.

Pittsburgh is not a skiing destination.

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

Pittsburgh is a well-known place for its sights and museums. However, Whistler is not a good village for its museums and history.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Pittsburgh can be an interesting and educational experience. 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.

While most people don't head to Whistler specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. There is a local museum where you can learn about the areas culture and heritage.

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

Whistler 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.

Whistler has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. There are many great restaurants and pubs that serve local dishes like Whistler herring, meatloaf, and Artic char fish. There are casual eateries as well as fine dining with upscale cuisine.

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 Whistler Better for Nightlife?

The vibe at night is superb in both Pittsburgh and Whistler.

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.

Whistler has plenty to do after the sun goes down. After a day on the slopes, you can enjoy the lively nightlife that includes après ski bars, nightclubs, and late night parties.

Is Pittsburgh or Whistler Better for Resorts?

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

Whistler is a popular resort destination that attracts visitors from everywhere. There's a large selection of resorts that you can choose from. Many have pools and hot tubs and range from romantic to family-friendly.

Pittsburgh is not a resort destination.

Is Pittsburgh or Whistler Better for Hiking?

Whistler is a must-visit destination for hiking. However, Pittsburgh is not a hiking destination.

Known for its hiking, Whistler draws a crowd to experience the nature and the trails. During the warmer seasons there are miles of hiking trails that take you through both Whistler and Blackcomb Mountains. Many trails are accessible by gondola and you'll find great views and stunning vistas. Trails range from short family-friendly options to strenuous and adventurous routes.

Pittsburgh is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Pittsburgh or Whistler?

If you're looking to go shopping, Pittsburgh and Whistler both offer plenty of notable spots.

Pittsburgh has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. 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.

Whistler is a great destination for shopping. The village offers great shopping where you can pick up local items or any ski gear you may have forgotten.

Is Pittsburgh or Whistler More Beautiful?

Whistler is great for its scenery and beauty. However, Pittsburgh is not a destination known for its beauty.

With stunning beauty, Whistler attracts visitors from all around. The town sits in a valley that is surrounded by stunning mountains and impressive glaciers.

Pittsburgh is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Pittsburgh or Whistler Better for Families?

Whistler is a must-visit destination for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Pittsburgh is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its family-friendly activities.

Whistler is an amazing family-friendly village to visit. Kids will love the winter activities like skiing, dog sledding, and bobsledding. There's also an ice skating rink, climbing gym, and tons of kid-friendly restaurants.

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 Whistler Better for Couples?

Whistler is great for couples. However, Pittsburgh is not a good destination for romance.

Whistler is a great village if you're traveling as a couple. Couples who enjoy an adventure will love the year-round outdoor sports. There are also romantic spas, fine dining, and scenic gondola rides.

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 Whistler Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Whistler is great for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Pittsburgh is not a good destination for backpackers.

Plenty of budget travelers and backpackers visit Whistler. There are several hostels in the area that are perfect for backpackers and budget travelers.

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 Whistler Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Pittsburgh is a nice place to visit for its public transit. However, Whistler is not a good village for times when you don't have a car.

Pittsburgh has a few public transit options. 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 mostly limited in Whistler. There's a bus system that connects the town to other nearby neighborhoods.

Is Pittsburgh or Whistler a more walkable city?

Whistler is great for its ease of walking around. Also, Pittsburgh is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its walkability.

Whistler is a very walkable destination. It's a compact town that's easy to explore on foot.

Pittsburgh is somewhat walkable. 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.

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

Should I spend more time in Whistler or Pittsburgh?

How long in Pittsburgh or Whistler?

In either Pittsburgh or Whistler, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Whistler 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 Whistler.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Whistler 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 Whistler.

One day in Pittsburgh or Whistler?

The city of Pittsburgh offers food and shopping. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

With shopping and skiing around the outdoorsy village of Whistler, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. 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 Whistler?

Pittsburgh is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this city makes for a great vacation. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Pittsburgh, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

With skiing and nightlife around the destination of Whistler, there's plenty to do. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. It offers something for everyone. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything.

Five days in Pittsburgh or Whistler?

Pittsburgh is a popular choice for travelers. Five days 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. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Whistler, a popular village, 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 village. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

A week in Pittsburgh or Whistler?

Pittsburgh is a great place to explore. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This city offers something for everyone.

Whistler is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. 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 Contiki Tours to Canada, and The Best G Adventures Tours to Canada.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Pittsburgh or Whistler?

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