A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Richmond vs. Beaver Creek for Families, Food, Couples, and Nightlife

Should you visit Richmond or Beaver Creek?

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 Beaver Creek can help you decide which place is right for you.

Richmond

Richmond is a historical, growing, and friendly city. Other reasons to visit include museums, nightlife, and food. See Richmond travel costs.

Beaver Creek

Beaver Creek is a adventurous, charming, and active town. Other popular activities here include skiing, food, and hiking. See Beaver Creek travel costs.

Richmond and Beaver Creek: Pros and Cons

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


Is there more to do in Richmond or Beaver Creek?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Beaver Creek than Richmond, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Beaver Creek is better known for its skiing, theatre productions, food, resorts, and hiking, while Richmond is more popular for its museums and attractions and nightlife. Beaver Creek is more touristy than Richmond and is popular for its skiing and charming atmosphere Also, Beaver Creek is famous for Beaver Creek Golf Club. Richmond is well known for its cultural and historical sights.

How is Richmond different from Beaver Creek?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Richmond or Beaver Creek Better for Skiing?

Richmond
Beaver Creek

Beaver Creek is a world-class destination for snow skiing. However, Richmond is not a skiing destination.

Beaver Creek is among the world's best ski destinations. Beaver Creek Ski Resort is a top ski destination with 26 lifts and 149 different trails. It climbs to an elevation of 11,440 feet and the village is filled with ski-in/ski-out accommodation. There's also an excellent ski school.

Richmond is not a skiing destination.


Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Richmond or Beaver Creek?

Richmond
Beaver Creek

Richmond is a great city for its historical sights. However, Beaver Creek does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Beaver Creek does not have museums and landmarks.

Is Richmond or Beaver Creek Better for Theater?

Richmond
Beaver Creek

Beaver Creek is not a good place to visit for its shows and theatre. However, Richmond is not a theatre destination.

Beaver Creek has a few theater choices. There are a couple of art galleries around town.

Richmond is not a theatre destination.

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

Richmond
Beaver Creek

Beaver Creek is notable for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Richmond is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its restaurants.

Dining out in Beaver Creek is an experience not to be missed. There are many great dining options where you can enjoy a meal after working up an appetite on the slopes. The cuisine has many mountain classics as well as fine dining and more casual restaurants.

There are plenty of up and coming restaurants around Richmond. 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.


Is Richmond or Beaver Creek Better for Nightlife?

Richmond
Beaver Creek

Richmond is a nice place to visit for nightlife. However, Beaver Creek is not known for nightlife and partying.

If you're looking for night time activities Richmond has a few options to choose from. 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.

Most people don't head to Beaver Creek specifically for the nightlife scene, but you can find a few options. You won't find a wild nightlife scene, but most of the activities center around the Vilar Performing Arts Center.

Is Richmond or Beaver Creek Better for Resorts?

Richmond
Beaver Creek

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

Beaver Creek has a few great resort options. There are many resorts in the area including the Westin and the Hyatt.

Richmond is not a resort destination.

Is Richmond or Beaver Creek Better for Hiking?

Richmond
Beaver Creek

Beaver Creek is notable for the nearby hiking options. However, Richmond is not a hiking destination.

Beaver Creek is a popular spot for hiking. The surrounding countryside is filled with trails that take you through flowered meadows, along scenic ridgelines, and to the top of dramatic peaks. During the warmer months, hiking is a wonderful way to enjoy the area.

Richmond is not a hiking destination.


Is the Shopping Better in Richmond or Beaver Creek?

Richmond
Beaver Creek

Both Richmond and Beaver Creek are notable shopping destinations.

Many visitors go to Richmond to go shopping. You'll find shopping malls and shopping centers around town, but there are also eclectic shopping streets and boutique outlets.

Plenty of visitors enjoy shopping while in Beaver Creek. The village has pedestrian streets that are lined with fashion boutiques, jewelry stores, sporting equipment stores, and art galleries.

Is Richmond or Beaver Creek Better for Families?

Richmond
Beaver Creek

Beaver Creek is a world-class destination for its family-friendly activities. Also, Richmond is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

Beaver Creek is one of the most popular family destinations. This is one of the most kid-friendly ski resorts in the country. There's a ski and snowboard school where kids can enjoy private or group lessons as well as other fun activities for kids. There are also many family-friendly restaurants in the area.

Richmond is a family-friendly city. 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.

Is Richmond or Beaver Creek Better for Couples?

Richmond
Beaver Creek

Beaver Creek is notable for couples. Also, Richmond is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for romance.

Beaver Creek is a very popular place to visit for couples. There are romantic resorts nearby as well as great adventure sports, skiing, snowboarding, and a beautiful setting.

Richmond is a nice destination for couples. 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.


Is Richmond or Beaver Creek Better for Students?

Richmond
Beaver Creek

Richmond is a nice place to visit for its student-friendly activities. However, Beaver Creek is not popular with students.

It's common for students to visit Richmond. There are a couple of colleges and universities in town such as Virginia Commonwealth University.

Beaver Creek is not popular with students.

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

Richmond
Beaver Creek

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

Beaver Creek has a few public transit options. There free transportation that's offered by Village Transportation.

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

Is Richmond or Beaver Creek a more walkable city?

Richmond
Beaver Creek

Beaver Creek is a world-class destination for its ease of walking around. Also, Richmond is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its walkability.

It is easy to get around Beaver Creek on foot. It's a quaint little village that is very walkable.

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


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

Should I spend more time in Beaver Creek or Richmond?

How long in Richmond or Beaver Creek?

Both Richmond and Beaver Creek have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Beaver Creek than in Richmond. Usually, 1-2 days is a good amount of time for Richmond, and 3-7 days is enough time in Beaver Creek.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Beaver Creek than Richmond 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 Beaver Creek.


  • How many days in Richmond or Beaver Creek? Ideal Length of Stay
    Richmond 1-2 
    Beaver Creek 3-7

One day in Richmond or Beaver Creek?

In Richmond, many people enjoy the food and shopping that this historical city offers. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. In one day, you should have a good grasp of this city.

The town of Beaver Creek offers skiing and food. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. 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 Beaver Creek?

Richmond is a fun place to experience. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. So, a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

Beaver Creek is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. 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 a weekend exploring. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Richmond or Beaver Creek?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the growing destination of Richmond. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days.

Beaver Creek is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. It's no surprise that skiing is why people visit. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Beaver Creek, five days is sufficent for most. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.


A week in Richmond or Beaver Creek?

Richmond is a popular place to visit. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Beaver Creek is a great place to explore. It's no surprise that skiing is why people visit. It is common to spend one week here. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One week is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Beaver Creek has to offer. 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, Beaver Creek 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
    Beaver Creek Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Richmond $176
    Beaver Creek $378

The average daily cost (per person) in Richmond is $176, while the average daily cost in Beaver Creek is $378. 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 Beaver Creek in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Richmond $101
    Beaver Creek $203
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Richmond $202
    Beaver Creek $406
Compare Hotels in Richmond and Beaver Creek

Looking for a hotel in Richmond or Beaver Creek? 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 Beaver Creek


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 Beaver Creek Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Richmond $72
    Beaver Creek $30

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 Beaver Creek?

Prices for flights to both Beaver Creek 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
    Beaver Creek $146

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
    Beaver Creek $53

Tours and Activities in Richmond

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

  • Capitol Steps and Stories Walking Tour : $45
  • Church Hill Chillers Ghost Tour: $27
  • Church Hill Segway Tour in Richmond: $80
  • Creepy Tales on Campus Ghost Tour: $27
  • Discover Downtown Richmond Bike Tour: $165
  • Discover Downtown and Riverfront Bike Tour : $115
  • Haunted Capitol Hill Ghost Tour: $27
  • Historic Trolley Tour: $42
  • Hollywood Cemetery Segway Tour in Richmond: $80
  • Offbeat History Tour of Richmond on a bus: $45
  • Phantoms of Franklin Ghost Tour: $27
  • Quirk Richmond Art and Secret Garden Tour: $115

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Richmond -
    Beaver Creek $35

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 Beaver Creek, we can see that Beaver Creek 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 Beaver Creek would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Beaver Creek 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 Beaver Creek Expensive?.