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

Should you visit Sarasota or Boulder?

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

Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for Sarasota and Boulder. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.

Sarasota

Sarasota is a relaxing, entertaining, and underrated city. Visitors also love the food, beaches, and shopping. See Sarasota travel costs.

Boulder

Boulder is a outdoorsy, nature-filled, and biker-friendly city. Boulder is a beautiful place to visit, too. Visitors also love the live music, food, and hiking. See Boulder travel costs.

Sarasota and Boulder: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Sarasota or Boulder?

You'll generally find more things to do in Boulder than Sarasota. Boulder is bigger than Sarasota, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Boulder is better known for its skiing, music, hiking, and impressive beauty, while Sarasota is more popular for its museums and attractions, resorts, and beaches. Sarasota is more touristy than Boulder and is known for its sandy beaches and its fun activities. Boulder is well known for its outdoor sports, biker-friendly downtown, vibrant downtown, and many local breweries. Also, Boulder is famous for The Flatirons.

How is Sarasota different from Boulder?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Sarasota or Boulder Better for Skiing?

Boulder is adequate for skiing. However, Sarasota is not a skiing destination.

Boulder is a fun local destination for snow skiers. The town offers access within an hour or two to several great ski resorts including Eldora Mountain, Vail, and Breckenridge.

Sarasota is not a skiing destination.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Sarasota or Boulder?

Sarasota is a great city for its historical sights. However, Boulder is not known for its sights and museums.

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around Sarasota. There are some decent museums in town such as the John and Mable Ringling Museum of Art, the Sarasota Classic Car Museum, and the Ca' da'Zan. Another highlight is the Mote Marine Laboratory and Aquarium.

Boulder offers a handful of options for museums and historical sights. Most people visit Boulder for the outdoor activities more than the museums and sights. If have the time you can wander around the University of Colorado Boulder campus, visit the Museum of Boulder, or see the Leanin' Tree Museum of Western Art.

Is the Food Better in Sarasota or Boulder? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

There are opportunities to sample the local cuisine at notable restaurants in both Sarasota and Boulder.

Sarasota has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. You'll find plenty of seafood around town, but there are also international restaurants and quirky local joints.

There are many up and coming restaurants in the Boulder area. This is an often overlooked foodie town, with great farmer's markets and restaurants to try. There are many casual places to eat as well as vegetarian and vegan friendly options everywhere.

Is Sarasota or Boulder Better for Nightlife?

The vibe at night is notable in both Sarasota and Boulder.

If you're looking for night time activities Sarasota has a few options to choose from. You'll find beach clubs, live entertainment such as drum circles, and plenty of bars around town. There are also evening cruises and late night parties.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Boulder. The town has breweries, craft beer, and plenty to do in the evening. Live music is popular and many venues are smaller with a more personal atmosphere. Check out The Bitter Bar or License No. 1 for a local vibe.

Is Sarasota or Boulder Better for Music?

Boulder is a good destination for its live music scene. However, Sarasota is not a live music destination.

You don't have to look far to find a unique music venue in Boulder. During the summer months there are often outdoor concerts. Head to Pearl Street for open air stages or see a concert at Boulder Theater.

Sarasota is not a live music destination.

Is Sarasota or Boulder Better for Resorts?

Sarasota is a good destination for its luxury resorts. However, Boulder is not a resort destination.

With a selection of resorts, Sarasota makes a nice vacation spot. You'll find beachfront resorts with pools and nice views.

Boulder is not a resort destination.

Is Sarasota or Boulder Better for Beaches?

Sarasota is a good destination for the beach. However, Boulder is not a beach destination.

Sarasota offers a nice beach destination. There's no shortage of beaches in the area where you can spend a relaxing day playing the water and lounging in the sun. Siesta Key, Sarasota Gay Beach, Crescent Beach, and Coquina Beach are some of the favorites.

Boulder is not a beach destination.

Is Sarasota or Boulder Better for Hiking?

Boulder is great for hiking. However, Sarasota is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors go to Boulder for the hiking trails. There are many accessible hikes in the area that take you through the mountains, by wildflowers, or up mountain peaks. Popular hikes that are nearby include the Bear Peak Summit Hike, the trails in Eldorado Canyon State Park, and Boulder Falls.

Sarasota is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Sarasota or Boulder?

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

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Sarasota. Upscale shopping can be found at St. Armand's Circle. There's also Sarasota Square Mall and the Mall at University Town Center. If you want to pick up some local items you can check out Sarasota Farmers Market.

Many visitors go to Boulder to go shopping. The downtown area has many local retailers where you can shop for clothing, art, or home goods. You can also pick up outdoor gear, camping equipment, and any other items you may need in town. Make sure you wander down the pedestrian-friendly Pearl Street Mall.

Is Sarasota or Boulder More Beautiful?

Boulder is a good destination for its scenery and beauty. However, Sarasota is not a destination known for its beauty.

Boulder is a beautiful place to visit, too. The city is surrounded by beautiful mountains and breathtaking landscapes. Many people move here specifically for the surrounding natural beauty.

Sarasota is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Sarasota or Boulder Better for Families?

Sarasota is an unbeatable place for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Boulder is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its family-friendly activities.

With a huge array of activities for kids, Sarasota is very family-friendly. There's a huge number of hands on activities for kids and families in the area. Many families enjoy a visit to Mote Marine Laboratory and Aquarium. There are also botanical gardens, science museums, and outdoor adventure centers. Animal lovers will appreciate a visit to Big Cat Habitat and Gulf Coast Sanctuary. The city also has many performing arts and entertainment options for kids. And make sure you check out the museum dedicated to the Ringling Brothers Circus.

Boulder is a family-friendly place to visit. The city has parks, playgrounds, a planetarium, and climbing gyms that are fun for kids of all ages. There are plenty places to get outdoors with hiking, kayaking, and other outdoor recreational activities. Eldorado Canyon State Park is a great place to explore as well.

Is Sarasota or Boulder Better for Couples?

Sarasota and Boulder both notable destinations for a couple.

Sarasota makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. A night out at St. Armands Circle is a fun way to spend the evening. There are also sunset cruises, nice restaurants, comedy clubs, and more.

Boulder is a good city for couples to visit. This is a great city for couples who love outdoor adventures, hiking, rock climbing, and cycling. You can wander down Pearl Street or go for a bike ride. There are also great restaurants where you can enjoy a meal and then head to Panorama Point to take in the view.

Is Sarasota or Boulder Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Boulder is a good destination for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Sarasota is not a good destination for backpackers.

Plenty of backpackers visit Boulder. There are a number of backcountry areas in the region that are perfect for backpackers. The city also has a young population and several affordable places to stay.

Sarasota is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. There are budget friendly places to stay, but there isn't a large backpacker or young crowd hanging around.

Is Sarasota or Boulder Better for Students?

Boulder is great for its student-friendly activities. However, Sarasota is not popular with students.

Many students visit Boulder. With the University of Colorado, Boulder in town, this city is a popular spot for students. It's an outdoor enthusiast's perfect base with many outdoor recreational activities in the area.

Sarasota is not popular with students.

Is Sarasota or Boulder Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Sarasota and Boulder both offer respectable public transit to get you around.

Public transit is mostly limited in Sarasota. There's a bus system around town but most visitors depend on their own car for transportation.

Public transit is generally limited in Boulder. There are buses that run around town, but you really need a car to fully experience everything that the city has to offer.

Is Sarasota or Boulder a more walkable city?

Boulder is a good destination for its high level of walkability. However, Sarasota is not a good destination for its ease of walking around.

Boulder is a somewhat walkable place. The city has some nice walkable areas and it is very bike-friendly.

Sarasota is generally not very walkable. While the downtown has some walkable parts, you'll need a car to access most things around town.

For even more information, also check out Is Sarasota Worth Visiting? and Is Boulder Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Boulder or Sarasota?

How long in Sarasota or Boulder?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Sarasota and Boulder. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Sarasota than in Boulder. Usually, 2-5 days is a good amount of time for Sarasota, and 2-3 days is enough time in Boulder.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Boulder than Sarasota 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 Boulder.

One day in Sarasota or Boulder?

In Sarasota, you'll find nightlife and food. This city offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

The city of Boulder offers live music 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 Sarasota or Boulder?

In Sarasota, 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 Sarasota has to offer.

Boulder 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. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Boulder, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Sarasota or Boulder?

Sarasota is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Sarasota has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

Boulder 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 Sarasota or Boulder?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Sarasota. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Sarasota. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

Boulder is a great place to explore. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. 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.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best G Adventures Tours to United States of America, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Las Vegas, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Anchorage, and The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Los Angeles.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Sarasota or Boulder?

Boulder has a larger population, and is about 72% larger than the population of Sarasota. When comparing the sizes of Sarasota and Boulder, 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.