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

Should you visit Arlington or Beaver Creek?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Arlington 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.

Arlington

Arlington is a international, historical, and educational city. Other reasons to visit include museums, nightlife, and food. See Arlington travel costs.

Beaver Creek

Beaver Creek is a adventurous, charming, and active town. It's also popular because of the food, hiking, and shopping. See Beaver Creek travel costs.

Arlington and Beaver Creek: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Good public transit
  • Home to Arlington National Cemetery
Things to Consider
  • Less family-friendly
Pros
  • Popular for skiing
  • Nice resorts
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less popular with backpackers
  • Public transit not as usable


Is there more to do in Arlington or Beaver Creek?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Beaver Creek than Arlington, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Beaver Creek is better known for its skiing, theatre productions, resorts, and hiking, while Arlington is more popular for its museums and attractions and nightlife. Beaver Creek is more touristy than Arlington and is known for its skiing and charming atmosphere Also, Beaver Creek is famous for Beaver Creek Golf Club. Arlington is well known for its international connections, its biking and walking trails, and being the location of the Pentagon.

How is Arlington different from Beaver Creek?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Arlington or Beaver Creek Better for Skiing?

Arlington
Beaver Creek

Beaver Creek is terrific for skiing and snowboarding. However, Arlington 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.

Arlington is not a skiing destination.


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

Arlington
Beaver Creek

Arlington is a great city 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 Arlington can be an interesting and educational experience. Arlington National Cemetery is where you'll find the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier as well as the tomb of John F. Kennedy Jr. There are many memorials around town, with the most famous being the U.S. Marine Corps Memorial. There are also several museums like the DEA Museum and the Museum of Contemporary Art.

Beaver Creek does not have museums and landmarks.

Is Arlington or Beaver Creek Better for Theater?

Arlington
Beaver Creek

Beaver Creek is not a good area for its shows and theatre. However, Arlington 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.

Arlington is not a theatre destination.

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

Arlington
Beaver Creek

Local dishes at restaurants are fun to try in both Arlington and Beaver Creek.

Arlington has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. It's a global city, and the restaurants reflect that. You'll find amazing Thai, Japanese, and Mexican restaurants. There are also less common cuisines to choose from such as Ethiopian, Moroccan, and Peruvian.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Beaver Creek makes for a great culinary experience. 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 Arlington or Beaver Creek Better for Nightlife?

Arlington
Beaver Creek

Arlington is a great city for nightlife. However, Beaver Creek is not known for nightlife and partying.

The nightlife in Arlington has something for everybody. The city has a huge young population that drives the nightlife scene. There are clubs, bars, and lounges in many neighborhoods. There are also comedy clubs and plenty of live music.

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 Arlington or Beaver Creek Better for Resorts?

Arlington
Beaver Creek

Beaver Creek is a nice place to visit for its luxury resorts. However, Arlington 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.

Arlington is not a resort destination.

Is Arlington or Beaver Creek Better for Hiking?

Arlington
Beaver Creek

Beaver Creek is an excellent place to visit for its hiking trails. However, Arlington is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors explore the nearby hiking trails while visiting 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.

Arlington is not a hiking destination.


Is the Shopping Better in Arlington or Beaver Creek?

Arlington
Beaver Creek

Shoppers can find a variety of notable stores in both Arlington and Beaver Creek.

Arlington has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. Many neighborhoods have local shops or farmer's markets. There are also shopping centers and malls such as Ballston Quarter, The Crossing Clarendon, and The Village at Shirlington.

Beaver Creek is a great destination for shopping. The village has pedestrian streets that are lined with fashion boutiques, jewelry stores, sporting equipment stores, and art galleries.

Is Arlington or Beaver Creek Better for Families?

Arlington
Beaver Creek

Beaver Creek is terrific for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Arlington is not quite as popular, but is fairly good 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.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Arlington. Kids will enjoy seeing the planes talk off from Gravelly Point park. There are also plenty of outdoor spaces and educational opportunities in the area, including world class museums.

Is Arlington or Beaver Creek Better for Couples?

Arlington
Beaver Creek

Beaver Creek is an excellent place to visit for couples. Also, Arlington is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for romance.

Beaver Creek makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. There are romantic resorts nearby as well as great adventure sports, skiing, snowboarding, and a beautiful setting.

Arlington is a nice destination for couples. There's a vibrant cultural scene and many international restaurants that couples can enjoy. It's also a great place to take in a show or concert.


Is Arlington or Beaver Creek Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Arlington
Beaver Creek

Arlington is a great city for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Beaver Creek is not known for backpackers.

Arlington is very popular with the backpacker crowd. There are a couple of hostels and many free activities nearby. There's also great public transportation that makes for a convenient backpacker destination.

Beaver Creek is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. There aren't many facilities that cater to backpackers.

Is Arlington or Beaver Creek Better for Students?

Arlington
Beaver Creek

Arlington is a great city for its student-friendly activities. However, Beaver Creek is not popular with students.

Arlington is a great city to visit as a student. There are a huge number of colleges and museums in the area as well as many great internship and educational opportunities.

Beaver Creek is not popular with students.

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

Arlington
Beaver Creek

Arlington is a world-class destination for times when you don't have a car. Also, Beaver Creek is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its public transit.

With a huge network, the transit system in Arlington can get you around easily. There is a reliable bus system around town as well as many metro connections.

Beaver Creek has a few public transit options. There free transportation that's offered by Village Transportation.


Is Arlington or Beaver Creek a more walkable city?

Arlington
Beaver Creek

Beaver Creek is terrific for its ease of walking around. Also, Arlington is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its walkability.

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

Arlington is very walkable. There are many pedestrian-friendly areas around town, particularly in the neighborhoods that are concentrated around metro stations.

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

Should I spend more time in Beaver Creek or Arlington?

How long in Arlington or Beaver Creek?

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Arlington than Beaver Creek 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 Arlington.


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

One day in Arlington or Beaver Creek?

In Arlington, many people enjoy the food and shopping that this historical city offers. 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.

You'll find food and shopping around the town of Beaver Creek. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A weekend in Arlington or Beaver Creek?

Arlington is a fun place to experience. 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.

You'll find shopping and skiing around the charming destination of Beaver Creek. Hikers are also drawn to this area. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from.


Five days in Arlington or Beaver Creek?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the educational destination of Arlington. 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.

You'll find skiing and food around the active town of Beaver Creek. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this town makes for a great vacation. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. Most people head to the area for the skiing. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this town has to offer.

A week in Arlington or Beaver Creek?

Arlington is a popular place to visit. 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 choice for travelers. One week here is typical. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Beaver Creek, one week is sufficent for most. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 10-Day Tours in United States of America, The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in United States of America, The Best 2-Week Tours in United States of America, and The Best 3-Week Tours in United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Beaver Creek or Arlington?

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

  • Arlington Prices
    USA Prices
    Beaver Creek Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Arlington $323
    Beaver Creek $378

The average daily cost (per person) in Arlington is $323, 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 Arlington and Beaver Creek in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Arlington $131
    Beaver Creek $203
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Arlington $262
    Beaver Creek $406
Compare Hotels in Arlington and Beaver Creek

Looking for a hotel in Arlington 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 Arlington


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: Arlington Hotel Prices and Beaver Creek Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Arlington $49
    Beaver Creek $30

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Arlington

Also for Arlington, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Ronald Reagan DCA Airport Transfers: $160

Is it cheaper to fly into Arlington or Beaver Creek?

Prices for flights to both Beaver Creek and Arlington 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
    Arlington $139
    Beaver Creek $146

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Arlington $11
    Beaver Creek $53

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Arlington $17
    Beaver Creek $35


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

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