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

Should you visit Wilmington or Beaver Creek?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Wilmington or Beaver Creek, this travel comparison, which includes costs, can help. The overall cost of travel is usually a consideration when deciding where to go next, and the cost comparison down below can help you decide based on the average prices from other travelers along with your own travel budget.

Wilmington

Wilmington is a charming, historic, and welcoming city. Other reasons to visit include museums, nightlife, and food. See Wilmington travel costs.

Beaver Creek

Beaver Creek is a charming, active, and adventurous town. Other reasons to visit include shopping, skiing, and food. See Beaver Creek travel costs.

Wilmington and Beaver Creek: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Popular beach
  • Scenic old town
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for students
Things to Consider
  • 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 Wilmington or Beaver Creek?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Beaver Creek. Although Wilmington and Beaver Creek are both popular with visitors, Beaver Creek has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Beaver Creek is more popular for its skiing, theatre productions, food, resorts, and hiking, while Wilmington is known for its museums and attractions, nightlife, beaches, and historical sights. Beaver Creek is more touristy than Wilmington and is known for its skiing and charming atmosphere It is also home to Beaver Creek Golf Club. Wilmington is popular for its laid back beaches, historical waterfront area, and university setting.

How is Wilmington different from Beaver Creek?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Wilmington or Beaver Creek Better for Skiing?

Wilmington
Beaver Creek

Beaver Creek is a must-visit destination for skiing. However, Wilmington is not a skiing destination.

The snow ski experience you'll have in Beaver Creek is among the best in 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.

Wilmington is not a skiing destination.


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

Wilmington
Beaver Creek

Wilmington is a nice place to visit for its historical sights. However, Beaver Creek does not have museums and landmarks.

Wilmington is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. There are art, history, and science museums around town. The Battleship North Carolina is a popular destination. Science enthusiasts will enjoy a visit to the Cape Fear Museum of History and Science or the North Carolina Aquarium at Fort Fisher. For art, head to the Cameron Art Museum or Art in Bloom Gallery.

Beaver Creek does not have museums and landmarks.

Is Wilmington or Beaver Creek Better for Theater?

Wilmington
Beaver Creek

Beaver Creek is mediocre for theatre. However, Wilmington is not a theatre destination.

While not known for its theater, you might be able to find something in Beaver Creek while you're in town. There are a couple of art galleries around town.

Wilmington is not a theatre destination.

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

Wilmington
Beaver Creek

Beaver Creek is great for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Wilmington is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its local cuisine and restaurants.

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.

Visitors will find a budding food and restaurant scene in Wilmington. Head to the waterfront for local seafood restaurants that offer outdoor seating and fresh caught fish. There are also farm-to-table restaurants and local diners with casual food.


Is Wilmington or Beaver Creek Better for Nightlife?

Wilmington
Beaver Creek

Wilmington 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 Wilmington has a few options to choose from. Live music is popular around town. There are also bars, lounges and dance clubs. When the weather is warm, many places make use of the outdoor setting, which makes for a relaxed and fun evening.

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 Wilmington or Beaver Creek Better for Resorts?

Wilmington
Beaver Creek

Beaver Creek is a nice place to visit for its luxury resorts. However, Wilmington is not a resort destination.

Beaver Creek has a handful of resorts to choose from. There are many resorts in the area including the Westin and the Hyatt.

Wilmington is not a resort destination.

Is Wilmington or Beaver Creek Better for Beaches?

Wilmington
Beaver Creek

Wilmington is a great city for its beaches. However, Beaver Creek is not a beach destination.

You'll have a great beach vacation in Wilmington. Nearby you'll find Wrightsville Beach, Kure Beach, and Carolina Beach. They have long stretches of sand and great waves. The water is usually warm enough for swimming between the months of April and October. During these peak months parking can be challenging, but during the quieter times, you shouldn't have trouble.

Beaver Creek is not a beach destination.


Is Wilmington or Beaver Creek Better for its Old Town?

Wilmington
Beaver Creek

Wilmington is a nice place to visit for its historic old town. However, Beaver Creek does not have a historic old town.

Wilmington is a good destination for visiting its old town. The Historic District is along the waterfront and has 18th and 19th century architecture. There are also great restaurants and interesting shops.

Beaver Creek does not have a historic old town.

Is Wilmington or Beaver Creek Better for Hiking?

Wilmington
Beaver Creek

Beaver Creek is great for hiking. However, Wilmington is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors go to Beaver Creek for the hiking trails. 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.

Wilmington is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Wilmington or Beaver Creek?

Wilmington
Beaver Creek

If you're looking to go shopping, Wilmington and Beaver Creek both offer plenty of good spots.

Plenty of visitors enjoy shopping while in Wilmington. Head downtown for the most interesting local shops. You'll find boutiques and souvenir shops where you can pick up art, accessories, or antiques.

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 Wilmington or Beaver Creek Better for Families?

Wilmington
Beaver Creek

Beaver Creek is a must-visit destination for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Wilmington is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its family-friendly activities.

Beaver Creek is an amazing family-friendly town to visit. 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.

Wilmington is a very kid-friendly city. Near town you'll find several beaches - Wrightsville Beach, Kure Beach, and Carolina Beach. They're all family-friendly and perfect for a day's activity. The city also has the North Carolina Aquarium at Fort Fisher, the Children's Museum of Wilmington, and the Wilmington Railroad Museum. For a rainy day there are also indoor play areas and entertainment centers.

Is Wilmington or Beaver Creek Better for Couples?

Wilmington
Beaver Creek

Wilmington and Beaver Creek are both superb to visit as a couple.

Wilmington is a great city if you're traveling as a couple. The beaches are great for a relaxing day of swimming and sunbathing. In the evening head into town and enjoy one of the local seafood restaurants on the waterfront. You'll also find great shopping and historical sights in the area.

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.

Is Wilmington or Beaver Creek Better for Students?

Wilmington
Beaver Creek

Wilmington 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 Wilmington. The University of North Carolina at Wilmington is a popular school that brings many students to town.

Beaver Creek is not popular with students.


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

Wilmington
Beaver Creek

Beaver Creek is a nice place to visit for times when you don't have a car. However, Wilmington is not a good destination for its public transit.

While Beaver Creek offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There free transportation that's offered by Village Transportation.

Public transit is generally limited in Wilmington. There are public buses around town, but for practical reasons, you'll want to have your own vehicle.

Is Wilmington or Beaver Creek a more walkable city?

Wilmington
Beaver Creek

Beaver Creek is a must-visit destination for its walkability. Also, Wilmington is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its high level of walkability.

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

Wilmington is a somewhat walkable place. The Historic District is best explored on foot. You can also get around Wrightsville Beach on foot, but traveling between these places requires a car.

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

Should I spend more time in Beaver Creek or Wilmington?

How long in Wilmington or Beaver Creek?

Both Wilmington 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 Wilmington. Usually, 2-5 days is a good amount of time for Wilmington, and 3-7 days is enough time in Beaver Creek.

Families should spend more time in Beaver Creek than Wilmington. 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 Wilmington. 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 Wilmington or Beaver Creek? Ideal Length of Stay
    Wilmington 2-5 
    Beaver Creek 3-7

One day in Wilmington or Beaver Creek?

In Wilmington, many people enjoy the food and shopping that this welcoming city offers. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. 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.

With shopping and skiing around the active town of Beaver Creek, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. One of the main draws to the area is the skiing. 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 one day exploring.


A weekend in Wilmington or Beaver Creek?

Wilmington is a fun place to experience. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. 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.

With skiing and food around the destination of Beaver Creek, there's plenty to do. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. It offers something for everyone. One of the main draws to the area is the skiing. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything.

Five days in Wilmington or Beaver Creek?

In Wilmington, many people enjoy the museums and nightlife that this historic destination offers. Most people come for the beaches. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Plenty of people spend five days in the area when traveling. So, five days is just the right amount of time to spend here.

Beaver Creek, a popular town, is full of activities for travelers. This is a popular place to visit for five days. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. In five days, you should have a good grasp of this town. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

A week in Wilmington or Beaver Creek?

Wilmington is a popular place to visit. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. 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 that is full of things to see and experience. If you have one week, this town makes for a great vacation. One of the main draws to the area is the skiing. One week should give you a good understanding of everything this town has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.


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


Which place is cheaper, Beaver Creek or Wilmington?

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

  • Wilmington Prices
    USA Prices
    Beaver Creek Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Wilmington $245
    Beaver Creek $378

The average daily cost (per person) in Wilmington is $245, 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 Wilmington and Beaver Creek in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Wilmington $120
    Beaver Creek $203
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Wilmington $240
    Beaver Creek $406
Compare Hotels in Wilmington and Beaver Creek

Looking for a hotel in Wilmington 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 Wilmington


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: Wilmington Hotel Prices and Beaver Creek Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Wilmington $47
    Beaver Creek $30

Is it cheaper to fly into Wilmington or Beaver Creek?

Prices for flights to both Beaver Creek and Wilmington 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
    Wilmington $97
    Beaver Creek $146

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Wilmington $17
    Beaver Creek $53

Tours and Activities in Wilmington

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Wilmington.

  • 2 Hour Sunset Sailing Tour in Wrightsville Beach: $95
  • 2-Hr, 45 Min Tour de Wilmington E-Bike Tour/Sightseeing/History: $70
  • 3.25-Hour Wilmington E-Bike Airlie Gardens Self-Guided Tour: $70
  • 5-Hour Wilmington River to Sea E-Bike Self-Guided Adventure Tour: $85
  • Black Water Adventure Cruise: $33
  • Cycle-logical Tours Guided eBike History Tour of Oak Island: $90
  • Downtown Wilmington Historian-Guided Walking Tour: $20
  • Eagles Island 50 minute Narrated Boat Cruise: $24
  • Experience the Exciting Fun of Surf Fishing: $165
  • History and Architecture Walking Tour : $25
  • Holiday Lights Cruise: $30
  • Island Hopper Cruise in Wrightsville Beach: $50

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Wilmington $39
    Beaver Creek $35


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

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