A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Alexandria vs. Denver for Attractions, Couples, Food, and Nightlife

Should you visit Alexandria or Denver?

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 Alexandria and Denver. 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.

Alexandria

Alexandria is a historic, charming, and quaint city. It's a very nice small town not to be missed. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the nightlife, food, and shopping.

Denver

Denver is a accessible, sprawling, and park-filled city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. It's also popular because of the shopping, skiing, and nightlife.

Alexandria and Denver: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Scenic old town
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good public transit
  • Very walkable
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to Mount Vernon
Things to Consider
  • Less family-friendly
Pros
  • Popular for skiing
  • Active nightlife
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for students
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • Less popular with backpackers
  • Public transit not as usable
  • Less walkable


Is there more to do in Alexandria or Denver?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Denver than Alexandria, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Denver is more popular for its skiing, hiking, and big city activities, while Alexandria is known for its museums, food, historical sights, shopping, small town charm, and impressive beauty. Alexandria is more touristy than Denver and is popular for its long-running history, beautiful architecture, and small town atmosphere. Denver is popular for serving as a gateway to the Rocky Mountains and the many national parks that are in the area. It is also home to Red Rocks Park.

How is Alexandria different from Denver?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Alexandria or Denver Better for Skiing?

Alexandria
Denver

Denver is a good destination for skiing. However, Alexandria is not a skiing destination.

Head to Denver for some great skiing and other winter activities. Although there's no skiing in the immediate area, there is a huge list of world class ski resorts within an hour or two of town. Two of the closest are Echo Mountain Resort and Loveland Ski Area.

Alexandria is not a skiing destination.


Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Alexandria or Denver?

Alexandria
Denver

Alexandria is a well-known place for its sights and museums. However, Denver is not a good city for its museums and history.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Alexandria can be an interesting and educational experience. George Washington's Mount Vernon home is an iconic destination in Alexandria. There are also many other museums in town that focus on the region's history. The Alexandria History Museum at the Lyceum and the Gadsby's Tavern Museum are both interesting. There's Gunston Hall and the Carlyle House, as well as an archeology museum and many historic landmarks around town.

While most people don't head to Denver specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. Many people use Denver as a starting or ending point for their mountain and national park trip, but those who linger can visit some of the city's museums and sights. Popular museums include the Denver Museum of Nature and Science, the History Colorado Center, and the Forney Museum of Transportation.

Is the Food Better in Alexandria or Denver? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Alexandria
Denver

Alexandria is a nice place to visit for its local cuisine and restaurants. However, Denver is not a good city for its restaurants.

Visitors will find a budding food and restaurant scene in Alexandria. The food, like the city itself, reflects the area's history. There are many southern classic dishes as well as a lot of seafood. You'll find lots of local restaurants that serve high quality dishes and a quaint atmosphere.

Denver may not make the list for most foodies, but you'll find what you need while you're in town. It's a pretty large city, so you'll find some nice local restaurants, but the foodie scene is still emerging in many neighborhoods. A number of restaurants offer outdoor seating, which is nice. You'll also find a growing selection of international restaurants. For something uniquely local, you should try the Bison steak and fried pickles.

Is Alexandria or Denver Better for Nightlife?

Alexandria
Denver

The vibe at night is good in both Alexandria and Denver.

If you're looking for night time activities Alexandria has a few options to choose from. There's a great bar scene, as well as tons of restaurants that make for a relaxing night out.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Denver. The city has come a long way with its nightlife. There's a great craft beer scene and the downtown area has really come to life. Popular bars and clubs in town include the Grizzly Rose and 54Thirty Rooftop. Many places are concentrated in the Soco Nightlife District.


Is Alexandria or Denver Better for its Old Town?

Alexandria
Denver

Alexandria is renowned for its old town. However, Denver does not have a historic old town.

The old town of Alexandria is one of the most recognized in the world. At the heart of the city is the historic old town. Its lined with townhomes that date back to the 18th century. There are many historic sights that have stories from the early days of the country. There are also cobblestone streets and a great waterfront.

Denver does not have a historic old town.

Is Alexandria or Denver Better for Hiking?

Alexandria
Denver

Denver is a good destination for hiking. However, Alexandria is not a hiking destination.

Denver offers some nice hiking trails. The city is very close to many beautiful parks and hiking areas in the Rocky Mountains. It's not hard to make a day trip from town and enjoy some great hiking. Nice options include the Trading Post Trail in Red Rocks Mountain Park, Bergen Peak near Evergreen, and Chimney Gulch Trail near the town of Golden.

Alexandria is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Alexandria or Denver?

Alexandria
Denver

Alexandria is a well-known place for its shopping opportunities. Also, Denver is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its shopping areas.

Alexandria is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. King Street is the main shopping street in town and it offers the largest concentration of independently owned boutiques in the Washington D.C. area. It's the perfectly place to spend an afternoon shopping.

Denver has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. The city has many outlet malls that budget shoppers appreciate. There are also weekend farmer's markets, boutique shopping areas, and all of the major chains that you'll find in most larger cities.


Is Alexandria or Denver Better for Families?

Alexandria
Denver

Denver is a good destination for its kid-friendly activities. However, Alexandria is not a good destination for its family-friendly activities.

Denver offers lots of family activities. It is a family-friendly city with museums, playgrounds, and plenty of outdoor activities. There are also a few ropes courses near town that kids and adults alike will enjoy. Popular activities include the Denver Zoo, the Denver Museum of Nature and Science, and Children's Museum of Denver at Marsico Campus.

Alexandria is not the most family-friendly destination. The waterfront area is nice to walk around. You can break up the history with an ice cream shop and kids will also enjoy taking a boat tour.

Is Alexandria or Denver Better for Couples?

Alexandria
Denver

Alexandria is a well-known place for its romantic activities. Also, Denver is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for couples.

Alexandria is a very popular place to visit for couples. The charm of the old town makes this a quaint and romantic destination. There's a waterfront area and many historic buildings. There are also romantic restaurants and plenty of places to grab brunch.

Denver is a good city for couples to visit. There are many beautiful and romantic outdoor activities in the area such as parks and botanical gardens. There are also spas, including the impressive Spa at the Brown Palace, as well as upscale restaurants and fun bars and clubs to explore.

Is Alexandria or Denver Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Alexandria
Denver

Alexandria is a nice place to visit for backpackers. However, Denver is not a good city for backpackers and budget travelers.

It's common for backpackers to visit Alexandria. There aren't any true hostels in town, but you will find some cheap motels.

Denver is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. Some backpackers fly into Denver to begin their national park tour. There is a hostel or two around town, and if you leave town quickly you'll find campgrounds not far away.


Is Alexandria or Denver Better for Students?

Alexandria
Denver

Denver is a good destination for its student-friendly activities. However, Alexandria is not popular with students.

It's common for students to visit Denver. There are a few students in the city, but there isn't a college town vibe that you'd get at other nearby university areas.

Alexandria is not popular with students.

Is Alexandria or Denver Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Alexandria
Denver

Alexandria is renowned for its public transit. Also, Denver is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for times when you don't have a car.

Alexandria has a great public transit system. DASH is the local bus system, but the city is also connected into the Washington DC metro system.

Denver has some public transit options. If you're not planning to leave town, the light rail and bus systems offer good access to much of Denver.

Is Alexandria or Denver a more walkable city?

Alexandria
Denver

Alexandria is renowned for its high level of walkability. However, Denver is not a good city for its ease of walking around.

It is easy to get around Alexandria on foot. It's a very easy city to walk around, particularly in the historic heart where most tourists spend their time.

Denver is not a very walkable city. While the downtown area is generally walkable, this is still a sprawling city where you'll really want to have a car to access areas outside of town.


For even more information, also check out Is Alexandria Worth Visiting? and Is Denver Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Denver or Alexandria?

How long in Alexandria or Denver?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Alexandria and Denver. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Alexandria than in Denver. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Alexandria, and 2-3 days is enough time in Denver.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Alexandria than Denver 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 Alexandria.


  • How many days in Alexandria or Denver? Ideal Length of Stay
    Alexandria 2-4 
    Denver 2-3

One day in Alexandria or Denver?

Many travelers enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the destination of Alexandria. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

With shopping and skiing around the accessible city of Denver, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Alexandria or Denver?

Alexandria 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.

With skiing and nightlife around the destination of Denver, there's plenty to do. It offers something for everyone. Many people spend a weekend here. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this city.

Five days in Alexandria or Denver?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Alexandria. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. 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.

Denver, a popular city, is full of activities for travelers. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.


A week in Alexandria or Denver?

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the charming destination of Alexandria. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

Denver is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Historical Tours in United States of America, The Best 10-Day Tours in United States of America, The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in United States of America, and The Best 2-Week Tours in United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Denver or Alexandria?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Alexandria is $0.00, while the average daily cost in Denver is $218. 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 Alexandria and Denver in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Alexandria $38
    Denver $87
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Alexandria $76
    Denver $174
Compare Hotels in Alexandria and Denver

Looking for a hotel in Alexandria or Denver? 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 Alexandria


Hotels in Denver


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: Alexandria Hotel Prices and Denver Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Alexandria -
    Denver $101

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Denver

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Denver:

  • Denver Airport Transfer To/From Aspen for 6-14 Sprinter Van: $1,950
  • Denver Airport (DEN) to Snowmass/Aspen - Arrival Private Transfer: $293
  • Arrival Private Transfer Denver Airport DEN to Denver City by SUV: $290
  • Denver Airport (DEN) to Steamboat - Arrival Private Transfer: $284
  • Denver Airport (DEN): Private Transfer to Denver hotels: $252
  • Denver Airport (BJC) to Beaver Creek Ski Resort -Arrival Transfer: $218
  • Denver Airport (DEN) to Vail/Beaver Creek/Avon - Arrival Transfer: $217
  • Private One Way Transfer From and To Denver Colorado: $200
  • Denver Airport to Breckenridge/Keystone/Copper - Arrival Transfer: $195
  • Round trip transfer in Private Car from-to Denver Int. Airport (DEN) to Downtown: $144
  • Private Transfer from Denver Airport DEN to Denver in Luxury Van: $136
  • Departure Private Transfer: Denver to Denver Airport DEN in Luxury Van: $136

Is it cheaper to fly into Alexandria or Denver?

Prices for flights to both Denver and Alexandria 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
    Alexandria -
    Denver $42

Typical Food Prices in Denver

Some typical examples of dining costs in Denver are as follows:


  • Sushi Dinner (for 2)
    $61

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Denver

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Denver.

  • RiNo Arts District Food Tour: $79
  • Downtown Denver Food Tour: $79
  • Arts District Walking Food Tour: $79
  • Mystery Puzzle Food Tour in Golden, CO: $80
  • The Dinner Detective Murder Mystery Dinner Show - Denver, CO: $86

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Alexandria -
    Denver $52

Tours and Activities in Alexandria

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

  • Old Town Alexandria Tour: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $5.99
  • Phantoms of the Potomac Walking Tour: $26
  • American Revolution Guided Walking Tour: $30
  • A Walk in Washington's Footsteps History Tour: $32
  • Ultimate Dead of Night Walking Ghost Tour: $38
  • Full-Day Bike Tour to Mt Vernon w/ Optional Boat: $68
  • Old Town Southern Comfort Food & History Tour: $127
  • Private Tour of George Washington's Mount Vernon: $165
  • Philadelphia Tour from Alexandria by Rail: $329

Tours and Activities in Denver

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Denver are as follows:

  • Denver's Wild History Tour & Ballpark Museum : $24
  • Shared Golden's History Wagon Ride Tour in Colorado: $65
  • Small-Group Cocktail Tour in Denver: $99
  • 1.5 Hour RiNo Art District Walking Tour: $28
  • 2 Hour Guided Segway Tour: $69
  • 2 Hour LoDo Historic Walking Tour in Denver: $28
  • 3 Hour Private Walking Tour in Denver with Professional Guide: $227
  • Archery Dodgeball - 75 Minute Indoor Experience: $31
  • Beginner Rock Climbing Tour: $200
  • Best of Denver Tour: $30
  • Best of Denver Tour: $24
  • Best of Denver Tour: $64

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Alexandria -
    Denver $5.31

Sample the Local Flavors in Alexandria

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

  • Ghosts Boos and Booze Haunted Pub Crawl: $35

Sample the Local Flavors in Denver

Also in Denver, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • 4-Hour Downtown Denver Pub Crawl: $25
  • Denver Terrors Boos and Booze Haunted Pub Crawl: $35
  • Terrors Boos and Booze Haunted Pub Crawl: $35
  • Private Vintner's Wine Tasting Experience in Colorado: $40
  • Golden Ghosts & Spirits Haunted Pub Crawl: $45
  • Vintner's Personalized Wine Tasting Experience: $60
  • Wine Tasting with Cheese, Charcuterie, and Dessert : $74
  • Denver Pedicab Brewery Tour: $130


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

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


Which is Bigger, Alexandria or Denver?

Denver has a larger population, and is about 4 times larger than the population of Alexandria. When comparing the sizes of Alexandria and Denver, 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.