A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Richmond vs. Avon for Attractions, Food, Nightlife, and Families

Should you visit Richmond or Avon?

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

Which city is more affordable and which is best for your travel style? If you're trying to figure out where to go next, comparing the travel costs between Richmond and Avon can help you decide which place is right for you.

Richmond

Richmond is a historical, growing, and friendly city. It's also known for nightlife, food, and shopping. See Richmond travel costs.

Avon

Avon is a active, outdoorsy, and scenic town. Other popular activities here include skiing, nightlife, and food. See Avon travel costs.

Richmond and Avon: Pros and Cons

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


Is there more to do in Richmond or Avon?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Avon than Richmond, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Avon is better known for its skiing, resorts, and hiking, while Richmond is more popular for its museums and attractions and shopping. Avon is more touristy than Richmond and is known for it's affordable accommodation options and its access to Beaver Creek Ski Resort. Also, Avon is famous for Avon Recreation Center. Richmond is well known for its cultural and historical sights.

How is Richmond different from Avon?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Richmond or Avon Better for Skiing?

Richmond
Avon

Avon is notable for snow skiing. However, Richmond is not a skiing destination.

Avon is a well-known ski destination which attracts visitors from far and wide. Beaver Creek is the main ski area near town and it's about a mile away. The town of Avon is below Beaver Creek and is located beside an interstate.

Richmond is not a skiing destination.


Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Richmond or Avon?

Richmond
Avon

Richmond is notable for its sights and museums. However, Avon is a mediocre town for its museums and history.

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around Richmond. The city has a long history which you can learn about at one of the many museums. There's the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts, the Virginia Museum of History and Culture, and the Black History Museum. There are also landmarks and historical homes.

While most people don't head to Avon specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. While there aren't a ton of museums in the area, it's worth checking out the Walking Mountains Science Center.

Is the Food Better in Richmond or Avon? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Richmond
Avon

Foodies will find both Richmond and Avon both to be notable destinations.

There are many up and coming restaurants in the Richmond area. The food scene has been growing around town, and there are food halls and local restaurants that serve diverse and interesting dishes. You'll find Indian, Asian, and European restaurants in addition to local classics.

There are plenty of up and coming restaurants around Avon. There are casual eateries where you can grab a bite to eat, whether you're in the mood for Chinese, pizza, or burgers.

Is Richmond or Avon Better for Nightlife?

Richmond
Avon

Evening events are notable in both Richmond and Avon.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Richmond. You'll find diverse bars and clubs around town. Pubs are usually laid back with a relaxed atmosphere. You'll also find live music that includes bluegrass, country, and jazz.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Avon. It's a small town but there are some bars and lively pubs where you can enjoy cold drinks.


Is Richmond or Avon Better for Resorts?

Richmond
Avon

Avon is very good for its resorts. However, Richmond is not a resort destination.

Avon has a few great resort options. There are the typical chain resort options, many with beautiful mountain views.

Richmond is not a resort destination.

Is Richmond or Avon Better for Hiking?

Richmond
Avon

Avon is very good for the nearby hiking options. However, Richmond is not a hiking destination.

Many people include a hike when visiting Avon. There are paved trails and recreational paths through town that are great for both hiking and biking. The main ones are Eagle Valley Trail and the trails in West Avon Preserve.

Richmond is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Richmond or Avon?

Richmond
Avon

Richmond is a good destination for shopping. However, Avon is a mediocre town for its shopping opportunities.

Richmond is a great destination for shopping. You'll find shopping malls and shopping centers around town, but there are also eclectic shopping streets and boutique outlets.

If you're looking to go shopping, Avon has some nice offerings. There aren't a ton of shopping opportunities in town, but there are enough shops around in case you need to pick up necessities or buy a gift.


Is Richmond or Avon Better for Families?

Richmond
Avon

You'll find notable kid-friendly activities in either Richmond or Avon.

Richmond is a family-friendly place to visit. The Children's Museum of Richmond offers hands-on exhibits that will keep young ones entertained. Another fun option is the Science Museum of Virginia. The city also has parks and outdoor places to explore as well as playgrounds and kid-friendly restaurants.

Avon is a family-friendly city. There are parks and playgrounds around town and there's easy access to the Beaver Creek Ski Resort. There's also plenty of hiking in the area.

Is Richmond or Avon Better for Couples?

Richmond
Avon

Both Richmond and Avon are notable destinations to visit as a couple.

Richmond is a good city for couples to visit. Kayaking or tubing on the James River is a great activity for couples. There are also museums and many restaurants that are perfect for a date night.

Avon is a nice destination for couples. While avid skiers prefer to stay at nearby Beaver Creek, the town of Avon offers a good alternative.

Is Richmond or Avon Better for Students?

Richmond
Avon

Richmond is a good destination for students. However, Avon is not popular with students.

Richmond is a good city to visit for students. There are a couple of colleges and universities in town such as Virginia Commonwealth University.

Avon is not popular with students.


Is Richmond or Avon Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Richmond
Avon

Avon is very good for its public transit. However, Richmond is a mediocre city for times when you don't have a car.

Avon has a few public transit options. There are shuttles and buses that travel through town and to Beaver Creek.

Public transit is mostly limited in Richmond. There are buses around town, but the availability and reliability is limited.

Is Richmond or Avon a more walkable city?

Richmond
Avon

Richmond and Avon both are notable when exploring on foot.

Richmond is a somewhat walkable city. There are some walkable neighborhoods such as the Fan and Museum District, but most people prefer to get around by car.

Avon is somewhat walkable. The town center is small and there are paved walking trails that you can use. It's possible to walk to restaurants or the recreation center, depending on where you're staying.

For even more information, also check out Is Richmond Worth Visiting? and Is Avon Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Avon or Richmond?

How long in Richmond or Avon?

It's fun to spend time in either Richmond or Avon. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Avon due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 1-2 days is a good amount of time for Richmond, and 2-4 days is enough time in Avon.

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

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


  • How many days in Richmond or Avon? Ideal Length of Stay
    Richmond 1-2 
    Avon 2-4

One day in Richmond or Avon?

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

The town of Avon offers skiing and nightlife. 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.


A weekend in Richmond or Avon?

Richmond 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.

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

Five days in Richmond or Avon?

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

Avon 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.

A week in Richmond or Avon?

The historical city of Richmond 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.

Avon 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 town offers something for everyone.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Bicycle Tours in United States of America, Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in United States of America, The Best Coach Bus Tours in United States of America, and The Best Adventure Tours to United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Avon or Richmond?

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

  • Richmond Prices
    USA Prices
    Avon Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Richmond $176
    Avon $326

The average daily cost (per person) in Richmond is $176, while the average daily cost in Avon is $326. 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 Richmond and Avon in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Richmond $101
    Avon $177
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Richmond $202
    Avon $354
Compare Hotels in Richmond and Avon

Looking for a hotel in Richmond or Avon? 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 Richmond


Hotels in Avon


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: Richmond Hotel Prices and Avon Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Richmond $72
    Avon $41

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Richmond

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Richmond:

  • Richmond City to Richmond Airport (RIC) - Departure Private Transfer: $175
  • Richmond Airport (RIC) to Richmond city - Arrival Private Transfer: $175

Is it cheaper to fly into Richmond or Avon?

Prices for flights to both Avon and Richmond 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
    Richmond $36
    Avon $117

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Richmond

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Richmond.

  • Church Hill Food Tour: $89
  • Trendy Carytown Food Tour: $89
  • The Carytown Food Tour with Discover Richmond Tours: $90
  • Church Hill Food Tour with Discover Richmond Tours: $90
  • Arts District Food Tour in Richmond with Discover Richmond: $90
  • Delicious Pizza & Ice Cream Tour of Richmond: $94
  • Arts District Walking Food Tour: $99

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Richmond $13
    Avon $48

Tours and Activities in Richmond

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Richmond are as follows:

  • Scavenger Hunt Adventure in Richmond by Wacky Walks: $10
  • Scavenger Hunt Adventure in Richmond by Crazy Dash: $10
  • Scavenger Hunt Adventure in Richmond by 3Quest Challenge: $10
  • The Haunted History of Richmond tour: $25
  • Uncivil Wards History Tour: $25
  • The Church Hill tour with Historian Jane: $25
  • Shadows of Shockoe Ghost Tour: $26
  • Haunted Capitol Hill Ghost Tour: $27
  • Church Hill Chillers Ghost Tour: $27
  • Phantoms of Franklin Ghost Tour: $27
  • Creepy Tales on Campus Ghost Tour: $27
  • Specters & Shades of Court End Ghost Tour: $27

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Richmond -
    Avon $38

Sample the Local Flavors in Richmond

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

  • Richmond Virginia Bar Crawl: $15
  • Richmond Ghosts Boos and Booze Haunted Pub Crawl: $30
  • Richmond Ghosts Boos and Booze Haunted Pub Crawl : $37
  • Richmond Craft Brewery Crawl By Junket: $86
  • Brewery Tour of Richmond, VA: $90


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

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


Which is Bigger, Richmond or Avon?

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