A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Sedona vs. Vernon for Couples, Food, Hiking, and Families

Should you visit Sedona or Vernon?

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

Should I visit Sedona or Vernon? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

Sedona

Sedona is a desert, dramatic, and scenic town. This is a great small town that is just waiting to be explored. You'll find world class beauty in Sedona as well. Other popular activities here include museums, nightlife, and food. See Sedona travel costs.

Vernon

Vernon is a relaxing, quiet, and peaceful town. Visitors also love the museums, food, and hiking. See Vernon travel costs.

Sedona and Vernon: Pros and Cons

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
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less popular for shopping
  • Less popular with couples
  • Less popular with backpackers


Is there more to do in Sedona or Vernon?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Sedona. Although Sedona and Vernon are both popular with visitors, Sedona has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Sedona is more touristy than Vernon and is popular for its stargazing, desert setting, and yoga retreats. It is also home to Red Rock Crossing Park. Vernon is popular for its surrounding valley with lakes and hiking trails.

How is Sedona different from Vernon?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Sedona
Vernon

Visiting museums and landmarks is a fun activity in both Sedona and Vernon.

Sedona offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. The Sedona Heritage Museum offers a glimpse into the history and culture of the area. There are also many galleries around town.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Vernon. There are local galleries and museums that offer information on the region's history and culture. You can visit the Canadian Wildlife Museum, the Caetani Center, the Museum and Archives of Vernon, the Paddlewheel Park Stationhouse Museum, and the Vernon Public Art Gallery.


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

Sedona
Vernon

Sedona is a well-known place for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Vernon is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its restaurants.

Dining out in Sedona is an experience not to be missed. 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.

There are plenty of up and coming restaurants around Vernon. The region is known for its vineyards and wineries and many of the local restaurants have been around for generations. The food is often locally produced and prepared with traditional recipes.

Is Sedona or Vernon Better for Nightlife?

Sedona
Vernon

Sedona is a nice place to visit for its evening party scene. However, Vernon is not a good town for nightlife.

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.

Those looking for nightlife will find a few places to hang out in Vernon. The town gets very quiet in the evenings, so you won't find much of a nightlife scene.

Is Sedona or Vernon Better for Resorts?

Sedona
Vernon

Sedona is a well-known place for its resorts. However, Vernon 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.

Vernon is not a resort destination.


Is Sedona or Vernon Better for its Old Town?

Sedona
Vernon

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

Sedona offers a nice historic old town area. Traditional architecture and historic charm give downtown Sedona a lot of character.

Vernon does not have a historic old town.

Is Sedona or Vernon Better for Hiking?

Sedona
Vernon

If you're looking to go hiking, Sedona and Vernon both have very good trails.

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.

Vernon is a popular spot for hiking. The surrounding valley has more than 300 kilometers of hiking trails. They run along pristine lakes, pass by granite rock formations, and take you to impressive viewpoints.

Is the Shopping Better in Sedona or Vernon?

Sedona
Vernon

Sedona is terrific for its shopping areas. Also, Vernon is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for shopping.

Sedona is a world class destination for shoppers. 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.

Plenty of visitors enjoy shopping while in Vernon. There are a number of boutique shops that are fun to explore in the downtown area.


Is Sedona or Vernon More Beautiful?

Sedona
Vernon

Sedona is terrific for its scenery and beauty. However, Vernon is not a destination known for its beauty.

You'll find world class beauty in Sedona as well. The surrounded countryside is filled with dramatic desert landscapes and striking red cliffs.

Vernon is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Sedona or Vernon Better for Families?

Sedona
Vernon

Sedona is a well-known place for its family-friendly activities. Also, Vernon is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

Sedona is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. 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.

Vernon is a family-friendly town. There are biking and hiking trails as well as other outdoor activities. You can also visit the Allan Brooks Nature Center or the Rock Garden Climbing Center.

Is Sedona or Vernon Better for Couples?

Sedona
Vernon

Sedona is terrific for couples. Also, Vernon is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit 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.

Vernon is a nice destination for couples. It offers a peaceful getaway for couples. You can visit the Okanagan wineries or enjoy one of the many hiking trails. There are also nice restaurants to try.


Is Sedona or Vernon Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Sedona
Vernon

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

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

Vernon is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. There is a hostel in town, but this isn't a popular destination for backpackers.

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

Sedona
Vernon

Sedona and Vernon both offer decent public transit to get you around.

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

Public transit is generally limited in Vernon. There is a bus system, but it's better not to rely on it.

Is Sedona or Vernon a more walkable city?

Sedona
Vernon

Sedona is a nice place to visit for its ease of walking around. However, Vernon is not a good town for its walkability.

Sedona is a somewhat walkable town. 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.

Vernon is generally not a very walkable town. You'll really want to have a car to make the most of your time here.


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

Should I spend more time in Vernon or Sedona?

How long in Sedona or Vernon?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Sedona and Vernon. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Sedona than in Vernon. Usually, 3-5 days is a good amount of time for Sedona, and 1-3 days is enough time in Vernon.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Sedona than Vernon 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 Sedona or Vernon? Ideal Length of Stay
    Sedona 3-5 
    Vernon 1-3

One day in Sedona or Vernon?

Sedona might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. Hikers are also drawn to this area. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

Many travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the destination of Vernon. Hikers are also drawn to this area. One day is often enough time to do most activities.

A weekend in Sedona or Vernon?

Sedona is a great place to explore. Don't miss the shopping, as that's what most people do. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Vernon 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.

Five days in Sedona or Vernon?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Sedona. Don't miss the shopping, as that's what most people do. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. With all of its activities, you can easily fill five days here. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Vernon. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. 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.


A week in Sedona or Vernon?

Sedona is a small town, so it's a great destination if you're short on time. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the relaxing destination of Vernon. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in United States of America, The Best Historical Tours in United States of America, The Best Coach Bus Tours in Canada, and The Best Adventure Tours to Canada.


Which place is cheaper, Vernon or Sedona?

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

  • Sedona Prices
    USA Prices
    Vernon Prices
    Canada Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Sedona $200
    Vernon $49

The average daily cost (per person) in Sedona is $200, while the average daily cost in Vernon is $49. 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 Sedona and Vernon in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Sedona $93
    Vernon $4.81
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Sedona $186
    Vernon $9.62
Compare Hotels in Sedona and Vernon

Looking for a hotel in Sedona or Vernon? 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 Sedona


Hotels in Vernon


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: Sedona Hotel Prices and Vernon Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Sedona $40
    Vernon -

Is it cheaper to fly into Sedona or Vernon?

Prices for flights to both Vernon and Sedona 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
    Sedona $83
    Vernon $43

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.
    Sedona $19
    Vernon -
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.

  • Sedona & Red Rock State Park Self-Guided Driving Audio Tour: $15
  • Sedona, Arizona Self-Guided Audio Tour: $16
  • Grand Canyon and Sedona Self-Guided Driving Tour Bundle: $22
  • Jerome Scavenger Hunt Walking Tour and Game: $25
  • Sedona Boynton Canyon Trolley Tour: $26
  • From Boynton Canyon Trolley Tour: $28
  • Out of Africa Wildlife Park Admission Ticket: $43
  • Main Street Ghost Adventure: Walking Tour in Jerome with Ghost Hunting Equipment: $45
  • Cemetery Ghost Adventure Cottonwood, Az: $45
  • Sedona Hi-Points Luxury Van Tour: $46
  • Hi-Points Van Tour: $50
  • Sedona Sightseeing Tour: $55

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Sedona $13
    Vernon $13

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
  • Experience E-Bike with Wine Tasting Activity: $126
  • Wine Tasting With A Touch of Sedona Magic: $159
  • Sedona-Jerome Scenic Vortex, Wine Tasting Grand Tour. See It All!: $199
  • 4 Hours Private Wine Tour in Sedona: $205
  • Grape Train Escape: Wine Tasting and Verde Canyon Railroad Adventure: $208
  • Voted Best in Sedona-Cheapest Private Wine Tour in town!: $210
  • The Classic Sedona Wine Tour: $219
  • Voted Best in Sedona-Private Wine Tour of Vortex, Wine & Shopping: $225
  • Private Wine Tour in Sedona, Arizona: $250
  • Private Wine Tour, Voted best in town, Tastings Included!: $285


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

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


Which is Bigger, Sedona or Vernon?

Vernon has a larger population, and is about 5 times larger than the population of Sedona. When comparing the sizes of Sedona and Vernon, 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.