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

Should you visit Alexandria or Moab?

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 Moab. 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 quaint, historic, and charming city. With fun activities and sights, this is a small town worth visiting. Alexandria is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Other reasons to visit include museums, nightlife, and food. See Alexandria travel costs.

Moab

Moab is a scenic, adventurous, and active town. Many visitors also come to Moab because of it's amazing beauty. It's also popular because of the hiking and shopping. See Moab travel costs.

Alexandria and Moab: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • 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
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to Delicate Arch in Arches National Park
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • Less popular for food
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Public transit not as usable
  • Less walkable


Is there more to do in Alexandria or Moab?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Moab than Alexandria, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Moab is better known for its hiking and impressive beauty, while Alexandria is more popular for its museums and attractions, food, nightlife, historical sights, shopping, and small town charm. Moab is more touristy than Alexandria and is known for its desert landscapes and the iconic arches found at Arches National Park. Also, Moab is famous for Delicate Arch in Arches National Park. Alexandria is well known for its long-running history, beautiful architecture, and small town atmosphere.

How is Alexandria different from Moab?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Alexandria
Moab

Alexandria is great for its historical sights. However, Moab is not a good destination for its sights and museums.

Alexandria offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. 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.

Moab offers a handful of options for museums and historical sights. There are a couple of museums in the area that will teach you about the geology and history. You can pop in the Moab Museum or the Film Museum at Red Cliffs Ranch, as well as the galleries around town.


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

Alexandria
Moab

Alexandria is great for its local flavors and cuisine. However, Moab is not a good destination for its local cuisine and restaurants.

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent 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.

You'll find the standard options when it comes to food in Moab. The town has grown over the years and now you'll find a diverse selection of restaurants that serve decent food. There are steakhouses, pizzerias, and even a couple ice cream shops.

Is Alexandria or Moab Better for Nightlife?

Alexandria
Moab

Alexandria is a popular place for nightlife. However, Moab is not a good destination for nightlife and partying.

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.

Most people don't head to Moab specifically for the nightlife scene, but you can find a few options. The town has grown significantly and you'll find bars, taverns, and breweries where you can hang out in the evening, but it's still a quiet place with a laid back atmosphere.

Is Alexandria or Moab Better for its Old Town?

Alexandria
Moab

Alexandria is very popular for its historic old town. However, Moab does not have a historic old town.

Alexandria has a world-famous historical area. 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.

Moab does not have a historic old town.


Is Alexandria or Moab Better for Hiking?

Alexandria
Moab

Moab is an unbeatable place for hiking. However, Alexandria is not a hiking destination.

Moab is well-known for its hiking and trekking. The area is filled with hiking trails, both inside the nearby national parks as well as outside. Canyonlands National Park is large with impressive overlooks, while Arches National Park has fun hikes that take you by diverse arches and include many opportunities for scrambling. Outside of the park, hikers can visit Corona Arch or search for dinosaur footprints at Dinosaur Tracks Trail.

Alexandria is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Alexandria or Moab?

Alexandria
Moab

Alexandria is great for shopping. Also, Moab is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its shopping opportunities.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Alexandria. 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.

Moab offers some nice shopping areas. There are gift shops, places to buy outdoor equipment, and convenient stores around town. There are also a number of art galleries that sell local items or impressive photography.

Is Alexandria or Moab More Beautiful?

Alexandria
Moab

Moab is an unbeatable place for its scenery and beauty. Also, Alexandria is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its scenery and beauty.

Many visitors also come to Moab because of it's amazing beauty. The desert landscapes and unique geological features make this a fascinating and beautiful area to explore. The dramatic arches in Arches National Park tell a unique story of how the geology of the area has changed.

Alexandria is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. The historic architecture and beautiful waterfront make this an iconic destination.


Is Alexandria or Moab Better for Families?

Alexandria
Moab

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

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Moab. It's a world of outdoor adventures. You'll find river rafting, mountain biking, rock climbing, and many kid-friendly trails. There's also the Tracks Museum, where kids can learn about dinosaurs as well as swimming pools or swimming holes in the area.

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 Moab Better for Couples?

Alexandria
Moab

Alexandria and Moab both superb destinations for a couple.

Alexandria is a great city if you're traveling as a couple. 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.

Moab is a very popular place to visit for couples. The area is filled with adventurous fun, with everything from world-class hikes to impressive rafting trips. The dramatic landscape provides the backdrop for a truly spectacular trip.

Is Alexandria or Moab Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Alexandria
Moab

Moab is great for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Alexandria is not as popular, but is still a nice city for backpackers.

Plenty of budget travelers and backpackers visit Moab. The town has many campgrounds and even a few hostels. Arches National Park has only a few backcountry overnight camping sites. Terrain is rough and most areas aren't accessible by trail.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Alexandria. There aren't any true hostels in town, but you will find some cheap motels.


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

Alexandria
Moab

Alexandria is very popular for times when you don't have a car. However, Moab is not a good destination for its public transit.

Alexandria has an effecient and thorough public transportation system which can take you anywhere in the city. DASH is the local bus system, but the city is also connected into the Washington DC metro system.

Public transit is limited or non-existant in Moab. There are efforts to create a transportation program within town, but there are limited transportation options available. If you book a tour, they usually provide transportation.

Is Alexandria or Moab a more walkable city?

Alexandria
Moab

Alexandria is very popular for its walkability. However, Moab is not a good destination for its high level of walkability.

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

Moab is generally not very walkable. While it's possible to walk around within the town, most visitors don't come to visit they town, they come to explore the area. You'll need a car to access most points of interest in the area.

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

Should I spend more time in Moab or Alexandria?

How long in Alexandria or Moab?

In either Alexandria or Moab, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Moab than Alexandria because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Alexandria, and 2-5 days is enough time in Moab.

Couples should spend more time in Alexandria than Moab. 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 Moab 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 Moab? Ideal Length of Stay
    Alexandria 2-4 
    Moab 2-5

One day in Alexandria or Moab?

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the destination of Alexandria. Visiting the old town is also a must. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

With shopping around the adventurous town of Moab, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. One of the main draws to the area is the hiking. 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 Alexandria or Moab?

Alexandria is a fun place to experience. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. A weekend is often enough time to do most activities. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

With shopping around the destination of Moab, there's plenty to do. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. It offers something for everyone. Many people spend a weekend here. One of the main draws to the area is the hiking. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this town.

Five days in Alexandria or Moab?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the charming destination of Alexandria. This city offers something for everyone. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Moab, 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 Alexandria or Moab?

The charming city of Alexandria offers nightlife and food. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. One week is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips.

Moab is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. One of the main draws to the area is the hiking. 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 Photography Tours in United States of America, The Best Camping Tours in United States of America, The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in United States of America, and The Best Polar Tours & Cruises in United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Moab or Alexandria?

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

  • Alexandria Prices
    USA Prices
    Moab Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Alexandria $0.00
    Moab $416

The average daily cost (per person) in Alexandria is $0.00, while the average daily cost in Moab is $416. 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 Moab in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Alexandria $38
    Moab $336
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Alexandria $76
    Moab $672
Compare Hotels in Alexandria and Moab

Looking for a hotel in Alexandria or Moab? 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 Moab


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 Moab Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Alexandria -
    Moab $17

Is it cheaper to fly into Alexandria or Moab?

Prices for flights to both Moab 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 -
    Moab $64

Typical Food Prices in Moab

Here are some examples of typical meal expenses from previous travelers to Moab:


  • Moab Brewery
    $42
  • Breakfast for Two
    $17

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Moab

For Moab, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Colorado River Dinner Cruise with Music and Light Show: $108
  • Colorado River Sunset Boat Tour with Optional Dinner: $129

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Alexandria -
    Moab $3.13

Tours and Activities in Alexandria

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

  • Alexandria & Mt Vernon Tour: $99
  • American Revolution Guided Walking Tour: $30
  • Full-Day Bike Tour to Mt Vernon w/ Optional Boat: $68
  • Ultimate Dead of Night Walking Ghost Tour: $30
  • Old Town Southern Comfort Food & History Tour: $127
  • The Abysmal Agonies of Alexandria Ghost Tour: $27

Typical Entertainment Prices in Moab

For Moab, here are some examples of average entertainment and activity prices from previous travelers:


  • Slickrock Trail Pass
    $5.00

Tours and Activities in Moab

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

  • BEST! Hell's Revenge U-Drive 4X4 Tour in Moab +Dinosaur Tracks!: $99
  • 2 Hours Guided UTV Tour in Moab Utah: $137
  • 2 hour Moab Ebike Petroglyph Tour: $117
  • 2.5 Hour Moab Hell's Revenge You Drive Off Road UTV Tour: $149
  • 3-Hours Sunset Arches National Park Pavement Sights Tour: $173
  • 3.5 Hour HELL'S REVENGE and FINS & THINGS You Drive UTV Tour: $239
  • 30+ National Parks Self-Guided Driving Tours Bundle: $85
  • Afternoon Arches National Park 4x4 Tour: $210
  • Afternoon Canyonlands Island In The Sky 4X4 Tour: $210
  • Arches National Park 4x4 Adventure from Moab: $197
  • Arches National Park Airplane Tour: $249
  • Arches National Park Back Country Adventure from Moab: $210

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Alexandria -
    Moab $66

Sample the Local Flavors in Alexandria

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

  • Alexandria Ghosts: Spirits & Spirits Haunted Pub Crawl: $30


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Alexandria and Moab, we can see that Moab 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 Moab would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Moab 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 Moab Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Alexandria or Moab?

Alexandria has a larger population, and is about 30 times larger than the population of Moab. When comparing the sizes of Alexandria and Moab, 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.