A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Asheville vs. Philadelphia for Food, Nightlife, Music, and Families

Should you visit Asheville or Philadelphia?

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 Asheville and Philadelphia. 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.

Asheville

Asheville is a outdoorsy, progressive, and open-minded mountain town. It's a beautiful place to visit, too. This destination also has one of those special and quaint feelings. Visitors also love the shopping, nightlife, and live music.

Philadelphia

Philadelphia is a historic, cultural, and diverse city. Travelers will also find plenty of sights and attractions here, as it's a big city that attracts lots of visitors. It's a beautiful place to visit, too. And you can't forget about the museums, theater, and nightlife.

Asheville and Philadelphia: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Asheville or Philadelphia?

You'll generally find more things to do in Philadelphia than Asheville. Philadelphia is bigger than Asheville, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Philadelphia is better known for its museums, theatre productions, food, historical sights, christmas markets, and big city activities, while Asheville is more popular for its resorts, hiking, and quaint atmosphere. Asheville is well known for its fall foliage, artsy downtown, local North Carolina barbecue, and being home to the Biltmore Estate. Philadelphia is well known for its diverse population, large number of universities, great restaurant and market scene, and its role in American history. Also, Philadelphia is famous for The Liberty Bell.

How is Asheville different from Philadelphia?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Asheville or Philadelphia?

Philadelphia is an unbeatable place for its museums and landmarks. However, Asheville does not have museums and landmarks.

The museums, monuments, and landmarks in Philadelphia are among the most recognizable in the world. The city has a rich history with a number of museums and monuments. Popular sites around the city include the Liberty Bell, Independence Hall, the Philadelphia Museum of Art, and the National Museum of Jewish American History.

Asheville does not have museums and landmarks.

Is Asheville or Philadelphia Better for Theater?

Philadelphia is well known for its theatre productions. However, Asheville is not a theatre destination.

Philadelphia offers many theater and performance venues for visitors. There are major Broadway shows as well as smaller venues. Head to The Avenue of the Arts along Broad Street for a popular stretch of theaters.

Asheville is not a theatre destination.

Is the Food Better in Asheville or Philadelphia? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Philadelphia is well known for its restaurant scene. Also, Asheville is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Philadelphia. It has grown into a well-recognized food destination. It's diversity of cultures and residents have influenced the restaurant scene and you'll find many great places to dine covering a number of international flavors. The city is famous for its Philly cheesesteak and roast pork sandwich. You can also grab some local favorites at Reading Terminal Market.

Asheville is becoming an appealing option for foodies. Downtown Asheville is filled with local restaurants that serve everything from brunch to late night snacks. There are many vegan and vegetarian options as well as a number of international restaurants. Popular local dishes include North Carolina barbeque and country ham biscuits.

Is Asheville or Philadelphia Better for Nightlife?

Party-goers will find similar levels of energy in Asheville and Philadelphia.

Asheville is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. The city has a fun and eclectic nightlife scene that centers around the city's breweries and live music venues.

Many people head to Philadelphia for the nightlife scene. The city's nightlife scene carries late into the evening with many rooftop and outdoor beer gardens. Most of the clubs and bars are found in the downtown area and you'll find places to dance, listen to live music, or sip a trendy cocktails.

Is Asheville or Philadelphia Better for Music?

Live music enthusiatsts will find something to enjoy in either Asheville or Philadelphia.

Music is a popular form of entertainment in Asheville. The city has grown into a world famous music destination that holds true to its mountain roots and independent artists.

The music scene in Philadelphia draws a good crowd. The city's diverse music scene includes jazz, rock, and hip hop.

Is Asheville or Philadelphia Better for Resorts?

Asheville is a nice place to visit for its luxury resorts. However, Philadelphia is not a resort destination.

With a selection of resorts, Asheville makes a nice vacation spot. The most famous resorts in the area are the Biltmore Estate and the Grove Park Inn. Both offer luxury restaurants and beautiful grounds that are particularly nice during the holidays.

Philadelphia is not a resort destination.

Is Asheville or Philadelphia Better for its Old Town?

Philadelphia is a good destination for its old town. However, Asheville is not particularly known for its historic old town charm.

Many people head to Philadelphia to see the old town. The Old City has a number of Colonial-era sites including Independence Hall, the Liberty Bell, the Betsy Ross House.

The old town area in Asheville is worth visiting. Downtown Asheville maintains much of its historic vibe, but it's smaller than some of the more notable old cities around the country.

Is Asheville or Philadelphia Better for Hiking?

Asheville is an excellent place to visit for its hiking trails. However, Philadelphia is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors explore the nearby hiking trails while visiting Asheville. Just outside of town are many great hikes to waterfalls or through the mountains. The hikes range in skill level and length but many pass through local forests or along the beautiful skyline.

Philadelphia is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Asheville or Philadelphia?

Shopping is a popular activity in both Philadelphia and Asheville.

Asheville is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. The city has many local shops that sell local crafts and independent art. The downtown area is filled with art vendors and you'll find the greatest concentration of shopping along the pedestrian-friendly Lexington Avenue.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in Philadelphia. With all items tax-free, this city is a great place to shop. It has many boutique shops as well as name brand stores and shopping areas. For a local vibe, head to Reading Terminal Market.

Is Asheville or Philadelphia Better for Christmas?

The Christmas season is a nice time to visit both Asheville and Philadelphia.

Visitors come from all around to experience the Christmas activities in Asheville. Head to the Biltmore Estate to see it fully decorated for the Christmas season. It's also worth going to see the winning Gingerbread Houses on display at the Grove Park Inn.

Philadelphia is a very popular destination during Christmas. There are a number of holiday events, light shows, and festivals during the holiday season.

Is Asheville or Philadelphia Better for Christmas Markets?

Philadelphia is a good destination for its Christmas markets. However, Asheville is not particularly known for visiting Christmas markets.

Visiting the Christmas markets is popular in Philadelphia. The city has its own German style Christmas market at Love Park and City Hall. It hosts over 80 vendors.

During the holidays, visitors often browse through the Christmas markets in Asheville. There are a handful of local Christmas shops around town where you can buy personalized gifts.

Is Asheville or Philadelphia Better for Families?

Both Asheville and Philadelphia are great family-friendly destinations.

Asheville is a very kid-friendly mountain town. With its beautiful hiking, interesting nature centers, and outdoor adventure activities, this mountain town makes a great kid-friendly destination. There are outdoor adventure parks where kids can zipline or climb. There are also hands on farms and orchards for fruit-picking.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Philadelphia. The city has many museums and a fascinating history that is interesting to kids and adults alike. Popular activities include a zoo and Sesame Place. Kids also love the hands-on Please Touch Museum.

Is Asheville or Philadelphia Better for Couples?

Asheville is an excellent place to visit for its romantic activities. Also, Philadelphia is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for couples.

Asheville makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Couples enjoy exploring the beautiful Biltmore Estates or visiting the spa at the Grove Park Inn. The quaint town makes a great honeymoon destination or a nice romantic getaway. There are luxury hotels or intimate bed and breakfasts that offer different options for couples on a romantic trip.

Philadelphia is a good mountain town for couples to visit. Like many large cities, it is a fun place to explore in the evening as a couple. This is also a great foodie destination with great markets, food trucks, and diverse restaurants that reflect the city's diverse population.

Is Asheville or Philadelphia Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Asheville is an excellent place to visit for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Philadelphia is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for backpackers.

Many backpackers visit Asheville. The town has an eclectic vibe that backpackers appreciate. There are a few good hostels around town as well as nearby campgrounds that are perfect for budget travelers or hikers.

Philadelphia is a good mountain town to visit for backpackers. There are a few good hostels for backpackers and budget travelers to choose from.

Is Asheville or Philadelphia Better for Students?

Asheville and Philadelphia are great places to visit for students.

Many students visit Asheville. With its progressive personality and charming downtown, students enjoy spending time in this great town.

Philadelphia is a very popular mountain town for students and younger travelers. With its many universities and diverse population, this city is a great place for international students.

Is Asheville or Philadelphia Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Philadelphia is well known for its public transit. However, Asheville is not particularly known for times when you don't have a car.

The public transit in Philadelphia can get you around easily. The system includes a subway, trolleys, buses, and a commuter rail.

Public transit is mostly limited in Asheville. There are buses around town, but almost everyone gets around town with their own vehicle.

Is Asheville or Philadelphia a more walkable city?

Philadelphia is an unbeatable place for its high level of walkability. Also, Asheville is still popular, but not quite as popular for its ease of walking around.

Getting around Philadelphia on foot is easy. The Old City is particularly walkable, as is Avenue of the Arts, and Rittenhouse Square.

Asheville is a somewhat walkable mountain town. If you stay downtown and don't plan to explore the outlying areas, then it's possible to walk around town. Otherwise, you'll need a car.

For even more information, also check out Is Asheville Worth Visiting? and Is Philadelphia Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Philadelphia or Asheville?

How long in Asheville or Philadelphia?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Asheville and Philadelphia. In our opinion, Philadelphia has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Philadelphia than Asheville. However, 2-3 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

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

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

One day in Asheville or Philadelphia?

In Asheville, many people enjoy the live music and food that this open-minded mountain 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.

People visit Philadelphia because there is so much to do. 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 Asheville or Philadelphia?

Asheville is a fun place to experience. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. 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.

People visit Philadelphia because there is so much to do. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Five days in Asheville or Philadelphia?

You'll find shopping and nightlife around the eclectic destination of Asheville. Hikers are also drawn to this area. 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.

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and live music when visiting the historic city of Philadelphia. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Most people head to the area for the museums. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in Asheville or Philadelphia?

Asheville is a popular place to visit. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. 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.

Philadelphia is a popular choice for travelers. 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. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in United States of America, The Best Polar Tours & Cruises in United States of America, The Best Walking Tours in United States of America, and The Best Tours Under $1000 in United States of America.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Asheville or Philadelphia?

Philadelphia has a larger population, and is about 20 times larger than the population of Asheville. When comparing the sizes of Asheville and Philadelphia, 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.

When is the best time to visit Asheville or Philadelphia?

Both places have a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. As both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Asheville or Philadelphia in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Asheville as well as Philadelphia. Many visitors come to Asheville in the summer for the hiking, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Philadelphia for the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

Asheville is a little warmer than Philadelphia in the summer. The daily temperature in Asheville averages around 82°F (28°C) in July, and Philadelphia fluctuates around 77°F (25°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Philadelphia. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Asheville this time of the year. In the summer, Asheville often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Philadelphia. Asheville gets 268 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Philadelphia receives 273 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Philadelphia. Asheville receives a lot of rain in the summer. Asheville usually gets more rain in July than Philadelphia. Asheville gets 5.4 inches (137 mm) of rain, while Philadelphia receives 3.9 inches (100 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Asheville or Philadelphia in the Autumn?

Both Philadelphia and Asheville are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Asheville for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Philadelphia because of the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Asheville is a little warmer than Philadelphia. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Asheville in October average around 64°F (18°C), and Philadelphia averages at about 56°F (14°C).

It's quite sunny in Philadelphia. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Asheville. Asheville usually receives more sunshine than Philadelphia during autumn. Asheville gets 229 hours of sunny skies, while Philadelphia receives 202 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Asheville usually receives more rain than Philadelphia. Asheville gets 3.4 inches (86 mm) of rain, while Philadelphia receives 1.9 inches (48 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Asheville or Philadelphia in the Winter?

Both Philadelphia and Asheville during the winter are popular places to visit. The winter months attract visitors to Asheville because of the Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Furthermore, the museums, the Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine are the main draw to Philadelphia this time of year.

It's quite cold in Philadelphia in the winter. In January, Asheville is generally much warmer than Philadelphia. Daily temperatures in Asheville average around 44°F (7°C), and Philadelphia fluctuates around 30°F (-1°C).

In the winter, Asheville often gets more sunshine than Philadelphia. Asheville gets 176 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Philadelphia receives 152 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Asheville. Asheville usually gets more rain in January than Philadelphia. Asheville gets 3.9 inches (100 mm) of rain, while Philadelphia receives 2.3 inches (58 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Asheville or Philadelphia in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Asheville and Philadelphia. The natural beauty are the main draw to Asheville this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Philadelphia for the activities around the city and the natural beauty.

Asheville is much warmer than Philadelphia in the spring. The daily temperature in Asheville averages around 64°F (18°C) in April, and Philadelphia fluctuates around 52°F (11°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Philadelphia this time of the year. In Asheville, it's very sunny this time of the year. Asheville usually receives more sunshine than Philadelphia during spring. Asheville gets 266 hours of sunny skies, while Philadelphia receives 216 hours of full sun in the spring.

Asheville gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In April, Asheville usually receives more rain than Philadelphia. Asheville gets 4.4 inches (112 mm) of rain, while Philadelphia receives 2.8 inches (70 mm) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Philadelphia and Asheville