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

Should you visit Sedona or Whistler?

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

Should I visit Sedona or Whistler? 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. It's also known for museums, nightlife, and food. See Sedona travel costs.

Whistler

Whistler is a outdoorsy, charming, and adventurous village. With fun activities and sights, this is a small town worth visiting. The beauty of Whistler is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Visitors also love the food, hiking, and shopping. See Whistler travel costs.

Sedona and Whistler: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Sedona or Whistler?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Whistler. Although Sedona and Whistler are popular destinations, Whistler has more sights and attractions for tourists. Whistler is very popular for its skiing, nightlife, and hiking, while Sedona attracts visitors for its museums and attractions, historical sights, shopping, small town charm, and impressive beauty. Whistler is more touristy than Sedona and is popular for its world renowned skiing and snowboarding. It is also well known for Cloudraker Skybridge. Sedona is famous for its stargazing, desert setting, and yoga retreats.

How is Sedona different from Whistler?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Sedona or Whistler Better for Skiing?

Whistler is an unbeatable place for skiing. However, Sedona is not a skiing destination.

If you're an avid snow skiier, Whistler should be on your list. 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.

Sedona is not a skiing destination.

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

Sedona is a nice place to visit for its sights and museums. However, Whistler is not a good village for its museums and history.

Sedona is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. The Sedona Heritage Museum offers a glimpse into the history and culture of the area. There are also many galleries around town.

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 Sedona or Whistler? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Dining out at restaurants in both Sedona and Whistler can be an enjoyable experience.

Sedona has a huge number of terrific restaurants. 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.

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

Is Sedona or Whistler Better for Nightlife?

Whistler is great for nightlife and partying. Also, Sedona is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its evening party scene.

Many people head to Whistler for the nightlife scene. After a day on the slopes, you can enjoy the lively nightlife that includes après ski bars, nightclubs, and late night parties.

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.

Is Sedona or Whistler Better for Resorts?

Sedona and Whistler offer a relatively similar set of very good luxury resort options.

Sedona is known as a popular and fun resort destination. Upscale resorts with spas, pools, and other amenities offer the perfect backdrop for a desert vacation.

Vacationers can choose from a number of terrific resorts in Whistler. 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.

Is Sedona or Whistler Better for its Old Town?

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

Many visitors go to Sedona to see the historical old town. Traditional architecture and historic charm give downtown Sedona a lot of character.

Whistler does not have a historic old town.

Is Sedona or Whistler Better for Hiking?

Whistler is an unbeatable place for hiking. Also, Sedona is not as popular, but is still a nice town for the nearby hiking options.

People visit Whistler specifically for its hiking, as the natural beauty is well-known. 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.

Sedona is a popular spot for hiking. 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.

Is the Shopping Better in Sedona or Whistler?

Sedona is renowned for shopping. Also, Whistler is not as famous, but is still a good village to visit for its shopping opportunities.

Sedona is a famous shopping destination with plenty of stores. 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.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Whistler. The village offers great shopping where you can pick up local items or any ski gear you may have forgotten.

Is Sedona or Whistler More Beautiful?

Sedona is renowned for its scenery and beauty. Also, Whistler is not as famous, but is still a good village to visit for its scenery and beauty.

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

The beauty of Whistler is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. The town sits in a valley that is surrounded by stunning mountains and impressive glaciers.

Is Sedona or Whistler Better for Families?

Whistler is an unbeatable place for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Sedona is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its family-friendly activities.

As it has a large number of activities for kids, Whistler is a very family-friendly destination. 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.

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.

Is Sedona or Whistler Better for Couples?

Sedona is renowned for romance. Also, Whistler is not as famous, but is still a good village to visit for its romantic activities.

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.

Whistler makes for a fun place to visit for 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.

Is Sedona or Whistler Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Whistler is great for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Sedona is not as popular, but is still a nice town for backpackers.

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

Sedona is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. You'll find campgrounds, RV parks, and motels in the area, but no real hostels.

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

Sedona and Whistler both offer reasonable 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 Whistler. There's a bus system that connects the town to other nearby neighborhoods.

Is Sedona or Whistler a more walkable city?

Whistler is great for its high level of walkability. Also, Sedona is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its ease of walking around.

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

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.

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

Should I spend more time in Whistler or Sedona?

How long in Sedona or Whistler?

In either Sedona or Whistler, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. In our opinion, Whistler has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Whistler than Sedona. However, 3-5 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

Families should spend more time in Whistler than Sedona. 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 Sedona than Whistler. 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 Whistler than Sedona 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 Sedona or Whistler?

Sedona is a small town where visitors enjoy the food and shopping. 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.

Many travelers enjoy the shopping and skiing when visiting the destination of Whistler. 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.

A weekend in Sedona or Whistler?

Sedona is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. 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.

Whistler is a great place to explore. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Five days in Sedona or Whistler?

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

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Whistler. 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.

A week in Sedona or Whistler?

Sedona is a great place to explore. It's no surprise that shopping is why people visit. 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 town offers something for everyone.

Travelers enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the adventurous destination of Whistler. This village 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 Contiki Tours to Canada, and The Best G Adventures Tours to Canada.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Sedona and Whistler, we can see that Sedona 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 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 Whistler.

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

Which is Bigger, Sedona or Whistler?

Whistler has a larger population, and is about 4% larger than the population of Sedona. When comparing the sizes of Sedona 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.