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

Should you visit Williamsburg or Beaver Creek?

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 Williamsburg and Beaver Creek. 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.

Williamsburg

Williamsburg is a well-preserved, historic, and charming town. Williamsburg is a gorgeous place to visit. Other reasons to visit include food, shopping, and museums. See Williamsburg travel costs.

Beaver Creek

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

Williamsburg and Beaver Creek: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Scenic old town
  • Known for its beauty
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for students
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • 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 Williamsburg or Beaver Creek?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Beaver Creek than Williamsburg, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Beaver Creek is better known for its skiing, theatre productions, resorts, and hiking, while Williamsburg is more popular for its museums and attractions, historical sights, shopping, and impressive beauty. Beaver Creek is more touristy than Williamsburg and is popular for its skiing and charming atmosphere Also, Beaver Creek is famous for Beaver Creek Golf Club. Williamsburg is well known for its historic and colonial charm, its award winning amusement parks, and its historical reenactments.

How is Williamsburg different from Beaver Creek?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Williamsburg or Beaver Creek Better for Skiing?

Williamsburg
Beaver Creek

Beaver Creek is a world-class destination for winter skiing. However, Williamsburg is not a skiing destination.

Beaver Creek is a top destination for snow skiing, and it attracts visitors from around the world. 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.

Williamsburg is not a skiing destination.


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

Williamsburg
Beaver Creek

Williamsburg is a great town 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 Williamsburg can be an interesting and educational experience. Colonial Williamsburg is like a living museum with reenactments and historic buildings that date back to the colonial days. In addition to the historic area, there are folk art museums and other historic sights in the area.

Beaver Creek does not have museums and landmarks.

Is Williamsburg or Beaver Creek Better for Theater?

Williamsburg
Beaver Creek

Beaver Creek is not so good for its shows and theatre. However, Williamsburg is not a theatre destination.

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

Williamsburg is not a theatre destination.

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

Williamsburg
Beaver Creek

Foodies will find both Williamsburg and Beaver Creek both to be great destinations.

Dining out in Williamsburg is an experience not to be missed. Head to Historic Williamsburg if you want to try some colonial classics. There are historic taverns that maintain their old world charm and serve dishes such as peanut soup and stewed beef. Around town you'll also find casual restaurants with pizza, macaroni and cheese, and burgers.

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in Beaver Creek. 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.


Is Williamsburg or Beaver Creek Better for Nightlife?

Williamsburg
Beaver Creek

It's hard to distinguish whether Williamsburg or Beaver Creek has a better nightlife scene.

Williamsburg is generally a quiet destination but there are options around. Despite its student population, there isn't much of a nightlife scene in town. There are restaurants where you can enjoy fine wine or cocktails, but nightclubs and bars are limited.

Beaver Creek doesn't have the most active nightlife scene. You won't find a wild nightlife scene, but most of the activities center around the Vilar Performing Arts Center.

Is Williamsburg or Beaver Creek Better for Resorts?

Williamsburg
Beaver Creek

Beaver Creek is a good destination for its resorts. However, Williamsburg 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.

Williamsburg is not a resort destination.

Is Williamsburg or Beaver Creek Better for its Old Town?

Williamsburg
Beaver Creek

Williamsburg is a world-class destination for its historic old town. However, Beaver Creek does not have a historic old town.

The historic old town of Williamsburg is revered around the world. Colonial Williamsburg is an impressively maintained area with museums, shops, and taverns. There are live reenactments of historic events as well as blacksmiths, wig shops, and carriage rides. You can wander around without a ticket, but for access to many parts of the historic area you'll need to purchase a pass.

Beaver Creek does not have a historic old town.


Is Williamsburg or Beaver Creek Better for Hiking?

Williamsburg
Beaver Creek

Beaver Creek is a great destination for its hiking experiences. However, Williamsburg is not a hiking destination.

You'll find a nice variety of hiking trails around Beaver Creek. 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.

Williamsburg is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Williamsburg or Beaver Creek?

Williamsburg
Beaver Creek

Williamsburg is a great town for shopping. Also, Beaver Creek is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its shopping opportunities.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Williamsburg. Charming shops both in the historic area and just outside sell unique items that reflect the city's past. There are souvenirs, food items, cookbooks, and home decor to choose from.

Beaver Creek offers some nice shopping areas. The village has pedestrian streets that are lined with fashion boutiques, jewelry stores, sporting equipment stores, and art galleries.

Is Williamsburg or Beaver Creek More Beautiful?

Williamsburg
Beaver Creek

Williamsburg is a nice place to visit for its scenery and beauty. However, Beaver Creek is not a destination known for its beauty.

Williamsburg is a gorgeous place to visit. The area's colonial architecture gives it a historic and traditional beauty that appeals to visitors and residents alike.

Beaver Creek is not a destination known for its beauty.


Is Williamsburg or Beaver Creek Better for Families?

Williamsburg
Beaver Creek

Both Williamsburg and Beaver Creek are world-class family-friendly destinations.

With a huge array of activities for kids, Williamsburg is very family-friendly. Older kids will appreciate the history in the area. For kids of all ages there are a number of amusement parks and water parks such as Great Wolf Lodge, Busch Gardens, and the award winning Water Country USA.

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

Is Williamsburg or Beaver Creek Better for Couples?

Williamsburg
Beaver Creek

Williamsburg and Beaver Creek both great destinations for a couple.

Couples visit Williamsburg frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. Historic Williamsburg is filled with inns and charming restaurants that make this a beautiful destination for couples. There are quaint restaurants that serve colonial food and interesting southern shops with unique trinkets. You can also wander around the campus of William and Mary College.

Beaver Creek is a great town if you're traveling as a couple. There are romantic resorts nearby as well as great adventure sports, skiing, snowboarding, and a beautiful setting.

Is Williamsburg or Beaver Creek Better for Students?

Williamsburg
Beaver Creek

Williamsburg is a world-class destination for its student-friendly activities. However, Beaver Creek is not popular with students.

Williamsburg is a great destination for students. The College of William and Mary has a beautiful campus and students enjoy the charming atmosphere with colonial architecture around town. There are also good restaurants and a great collegiate vibe.

Beaver Creek is not popular with students.


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

Williamsburg
Beaver Creek

Beaver Creek is a good destination for its public transit. However, Williamsburg is a town with minimal options for times when you don't have a car.

You'll find some public transit in Beaver Creek, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There free transportation that's offered by Village Transportation.

Public transit is mostly limited in Williamsburg. There are buses around town, and they offer access to Historic Williamsburg, but for most places you'll need to have your own car.

Is Williamsburg or Beaver Creek a more walkable city?

Williamsburg
Beaver Creek

Beaver Creek is a world-class destination for its ease of walking around. However, Williamsburg is a town with minimal options for its walkability.

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

Williamsburg is generally not a very walkable town. Historic Williamsburg and the neighborhoods around the College of William and Mary are all walkable, but if you plan to visit the amusement parks then you'll absolutely need a car.

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

Should I spend more time in Beaver Creek or Williamsburg?

How long in Williamsburg or Beaver Creek?

Both Williamsburg 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 Williamsburg. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Williamsburg, and 3-7 days is enough time in Beaver Creek.

Families should spend more time in Beaver Creek than Williamsburg. 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 Williamsburg. 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.


  • How many days in Williamsburg or Beaver Creek? Ideal Length of Stay
    Williamsburg 2-4 
    Beaver Creek 3-7

One day in Williamsburg or Beaver Creek?

In Williamsburg, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this quaint town offers. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

In Beaver Creek, many people enjoy the food and shopping that this active town offers. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.


A weekend in Williamsburg or Beaver Creek?

Williamsburg is a fun place to experience. Visiting the old town is also a must. 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 fun place to experience. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. Lots of people come for the skiing. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring.

Five days in Williamsburg or Beaver Creek?

You'll find food and shopping around the quaint destination of Williamsburg. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. 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.

In Beaver Creek, many people enjoy the skiing and food that this active destination offers. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Plenty of people spend five days in the area when traveling. Lots of people come for the skiing. So, five days is just the right amount of time to spend here.

A week in Williamsburg or Beaver Creek?

Williamsburg is a popular place to visit. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. 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 popular place to visit. Many people spend one week here. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then one week is just the right amount of time to spend here. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Wildlife Tours to United States of America, The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in United States of America, The Best Historical Tours in United States of America, and The Best 10-Day Tours in United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Beaver Creek or Williamsburg?

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

  • Williamsburg Prices
    USA Prices
    Beaver Creek Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Williamsburg $135
    Beaver Creek $378

The average daily cost (per person) in Williamsburg is $135, 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 Williamsburg and Beaver Creek in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Williamsburg $66
    Beaver Creek $203
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Williamsburg $132
    Beaver Creek $406
Compare Hotels in Williamsburg and Beaver Creek

Looking for a hotel in Williamsburg 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 Williamsburg


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: Williamsburg Hotel Prices and Beaver Creek Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Williamsburg $11
    Beaver Creek $30

Is it cheaper to fly into Williamsburg or Beaver Creek?

Prices for flights to both Beaver Creek and Williamsburg 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
    Williamsburg $54
    Beaver Creek $146

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Williamsburg $34
    Beaver Creek $53

Tours and Activities in Williamsburg

Here are a few actual costs in Williamsburg for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • Colonial Williamsburg Ghost Stories and Walking Tour: $25
  • 1 Hour Christmastide Walking Tour in Virginia Past and Present : $25
  • 2-Hour Private Guided The best of Williamsburg Walking Tour: $250
  • Busch Gardens Williamsburg Admission Ticket: $82
  • Civil War Ghost Tour: $25
  • Colonial Contradictions Self Guided Walking Tour of Williamsburg: $9.99
  • Colonial Ghosts: Ghostly Whispers of Williamsburg Ghost Tour: $26
  • Colonial Ghosts: Ghostly Whispers of Williamsburg Ghost Tour: $26
  • Colonial History Tour in Williamsburg Virginia: $25
  • Colonial Williamsburg Self-Guided Audio Walking Tour: $13
  • Colonial Christmas Walking Tour: $25
  • Colonial Colonial History Guided Walking Tour: $25

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

Sample the Local Flavors in Williamsburg

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

  • Williamsburg Ghosts and Brews Haunted Pub Crawls: $29
  • Colonial Ghosts Haunted Pub Crawl: $30
  • The Murder Tour and Pub Crawl: $48


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Williamsburg and Beaver Creek, we can see that Beaver Creek is more expensive. And not only is Williamsburg much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Williamsburg would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Williamsburg 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 Williamsburg.

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