A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Aspen vs. Honolulu for Food, Resorts, Hiking, and Families

Should you visit Aspen or Honolulu?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Aspen and Honolulu can help. It includes a travel cost comparison in addition to other factors. For many travelers, the cost of a destination is a primary consideration when choosing where to go.

Aspen

Aspen is a vibrant, artsy, and outdoorsy ski town. With plenty of activities and sights, this is a small town worth visiting. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. This is a quaint and attractive place to visit, too. Other reasons to visit include food, hiking, and shopping.

Honolulu

Honolulu is a multi-cultural, energetic, and vibrant city. As it's a big city, visitors will find plenty to do, too. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. Other popular activities here include shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Aspen and Honolulu: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Aspen or Honolulu?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Honolulu than Aspen, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Honolulu is better known for its museums, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, and big city activities, while Aspen is more popular for its skiing, food, music, christmas markets, small town charm, and quaint atmosphere. Honolulu is more touristy than Aspen and is popular for its multicultural atmosphere, beautiful beaches, and iconic hikes. Also, Honolulu is famous for Pearl Harbor. Aspen is well known for its world-class skiing, many food, film, and music festivals, and its stunning mountain hikes.

How is Aspen different from Honolulu?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Aspen or Honolulu Better for Skiing?

Aspen is an unbeatable place for skiing. However, Honolulu is not a skiing destination.

Visitors will find world class skiing in Aspen. Near the town, there are 4 separate ski resorts. In town you'll find Aspen Mountain, which is known for it's black-diamond runs. Aspen Highlands, a couple miles away, has a mix of slopes and is less crowded. Buttermilk attracts many freestyle skiers and Aspen Snowmass is considered one of the best family-friendly ski areas.

Honolulu is not a skiing destination.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Aspen or Honolulu?

Honolulu is renowned for its museums and landmarks. However, Aspen does not have museums and landmarks.

You'll find many recognizable landmarks that put Honolulu on the map. For many visitors, a trip to Pearl Harbor is one of the most memorable experiences while they're in Hawaii. It's still an active naval base, but it's also a National Historic Landmark that memorializes that historic day in 1941. There are many sights that reflect on the past and you can also pick up tours to the USS Arizona at the Pearl Harbor Visitor Center. Other cultural sights around Honolulu include the Polynesian Cultural Center, the Shangri-La Museum, and Iolani Palace.

Aspen does not have museums and landmarks.

Is the Food Better in Aspen or Honolulu? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Aspen is an unbeatable place for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Honolulu is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Many restaurants in Aspen have been singled out for their culinary prowess. The town hosts many food festivals and there is a growing selection of diverse restaurants. In town you'll find cafes and restaurants that cater to both the local crowd and the travelers who flock to the area during peak seasons.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Honolulu. The city offers a mix of internationally recognized chain restaurants as well as local mom and pop shops. You'll find a mix of cuisines that reflect the city's multicultural personality. There is plenty of Japanese food around town as well as local Hawaiian dishes. Spam is incorporated into many dishes, but you'll also find seafood and tropical fruits.

Is Aspen or Honolulu Better for Nightlife?

It's hard to distinguish whether Aspen or Honolulu has a better nightlife scene.

The people in Aspen know how to have a good time. The people in Aspen know how to have a good time. The nightlife scene includes craft beer, live music, and dancing. There's a local vibe, particularly during the off-season times when the tourist crowds are less.

The nightlife in Honolulu has something for everybody. The city has the most active nightlife scene on all of the Hawaiian islands. If you're looking for a party, then this is the place to stay. You'll find many bars, clubs, and entertainment options around town, as well as beach parties and festivals. For tourists, the highest concentration of nightlife venues is around Waikiki, which is also where you'll find the most hotels.

Is Aspen or Honolulu Better for Music?

Aspen is great for live music. However, Honolulu is not a live music destination.

The music scene in Aspen draws a good crowd. Popular music venues in town include Silver City Mountain Saloon and Belly Up Aspen.

Honolulu is not a live music destination.

Is Aspen or Honolulu Better for Resorts?

Honolulu is renowned for its resorts. Also, Aspen is still popular, but not quite as popular for its luxury resorts.

Honolulu is a world class resort vacation destination. The highest concentration of resorts are around Waikiki where you'll find all of the major names such as the Hilton, Marriott, and the Hyatt.

There are plenty of resorts in Aspen to choose from. Popular resorts in the area include The Little Nell, Hotel Jerome, and St. Regis Aspen.

Is Aspen or Honolulu Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Honolulu is a great destination for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Aspen is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Honolulu is an extremely popular place to visit for scuba diving and snorkeling. There are great beaches around the island and near the city where you can enjoy diving and snorkeling. You'll find coral and tropical fish that make for a wonderful experience.

Aspen is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Aspen or Honolulu Better for Beaches?

Honolulu is renowned for the beach. However, Aspen is not a beach destination.

Honolulu is considered to be a world-class beach destination. Nearby there are countless beach destinations such as the famed Waikiki Beach. There are also more local and lesser known stretches of sand where you can escape the tourist crowds. Other great beaches in the area include Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve, Magic Island, and Lanikai Beach.

Aspen is not a beach destination.

Is Aspen or Honolulu Better for Hiking?

Honolulu is renowned for its hiking experiences. Also, Aspen is still popular, but not quite as popular for hiking.

Around Honolulu visitors will find world-class hiking trails. Both in the city and nearby you'll find world famous hiking trails that offer spectacular views and breathtaking landscapes. There are many natural landmarks and dramatic mountains. Moanalua Valley Trail, also known as the Stairway to Heaven, is one of the top hiking trails in the area. Other popular options include Kuliouou Ridge Trail and Diamond Head Crater Hike.

Many visitors go to Aspen for the hiking trails. During the summer and fall seasons, hiking is a great way to explore Aspen's nearby beauty. Popular trails include the Ute Trail, the Lost Man Trail, and the famous Maroon Bells Scenic Trail.

Is the Shopping Better in Aspen or Honolulu?

Shopping is a popular activity in both Honolulu and Aspen.

Browsing through shops is a popular activity in Aspen. There are many great local shops and art galleries where you can pick interesting items or fine art.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Honolulu. The city has some of the best shopping opportunities in the Hawaiian islands. There are brand name fashion outlets, large shopping malls, and boutique local vendors. Many of the malls are open air and let you enjoy the Hawaiian climate while you browse. Downtown Honolulu and Waikiki both have many shopping opportunities.

Is Aspen or Honolulu Better for Christmas?

Aspen is an unbeatable place for its Christmas holiday experiences. However, Honolulu does not offer Christmas activities.

With so many activities, Aspen is a top place to visit during Christmas. There are a number of beautiful activities that will bring the holiday season to life in the town.

Honolulu does not offer Christmas activities.

Is Aspen or Honolulu Better for Christmas Markets?

Aspen is great for visiting Christmas markets. However, Honolulu does not offer Christmas markets.

Aspen has a large number of Christmas markets. The town has a charming Christmas market that is fun to explore and has around 40 vendors.

Honolulu does not offer Christmas markets.

Is Aspen or Honolulu Better for Families?

Honolulu is renowned for its family-friendly activities. Also, Aspen is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

Honolulu is an extremely popular city to visit for families. There are many kid-friendly beaches, hiking trails, and activities that appeal to families. While Waikiki Beach can get crowded, it is also a great option for kids. Kids will also enjoy snorkeling with sea turtles, swimming with dolphins, or taking surfing lessons. For a cold treat, everyone can enjoy shave ice and the perfect way to wrap up a day is a fun luau.

Aspen offers lots of family activities. Families that enjoy skiing together, hiking, rock climbing, and having adventures will enjoy a visit to this town. Aspen Mountain is not a great option for beginning skiers, but further away, Aspen Snowmass offers good beginner slopes.

Is Aspen or Honolulu Better for Couples?

Honolulu is renowned for couples. Also, Aspen is still popular, but not quite as popular for romance.

Honolulu is a great city for couples, as it has plenty to offer. Romantic resorts, beautiful beaches, and stunning hikes make this a top honeymoon destination for couples. The city has an energy that is unlike anywhere else on the Hawaiian islands, but there are also nature trails and outdoor adventures nearby. There are a diversity of restaurants that highlight both local and international cuisines, and a nightlife scene that will keep you entertained.

Aspen is a great ski town if you're traveling as a couple. Aspen is both a popular ski destination as well as an established town. There are many great restaurants and activities that couples can enjoy and the setting is cute and very scenic, making it a beautiful and romantic destination.

Is Aspen or Honolulu Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Honolulu is a great destination for backpackers. However, Aspen is a ski town with minimal options for backpackers and budget travelers.

Honolulu is a very popular city for backpackers and budget travelers. This is one of the easier places to stay in Hawaii as a backpacker. There are a handful of hostels, and public transit is available so having a car isn't as crucial as it is everywhere else.

Aspen is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. Because it is both a town and a ski resort, there are a couple of more affordable accommodation options. Even so, this is an expensive destination that isn't always ideal for budget travelers.

Is Aspen or Honolulu Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

You'll find somewhat comparable public transit options in both Aspen and Honolulu.

You'll find some public transit in Aspen, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There are several shuttle buses around the town.

While Honolulu offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. TheBus is the public bus system through the city and elsewhere on Oahu.

Is Aspen or Honolulu a more walkable city?

Aspen and Honolulu both are great when exploring on foot.

Aspen is a very walkable destination. The town is compact enough that it can be explored on foot. If you're planning to head into the mountains to hike, you'll likely need a car.

Honolulu is very walkable. The most walkable areas are around downtown Honolulu and in Waikiki.

For even more information, also check out Is Aspen Worth Visiting? and Is Honolulu Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Honolulu or Aspen?

How long in Aspen or Honolulu?

Both Aspen and Honolulu have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Honolulu than in Aspen. Usually, 3-5 days is a good amount of time for Aspen, and 5-7 days is enough time in Honolulu.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Honolulu than Aspen 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 Honolulu.

One day in Aspen or Honolulu?

Aspen is a small town where visitors enjoy the shopping and skiing. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Each neighborhood in Honolulu has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

A weekend in Aspen or Honolulu?

Aspen is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Honolulu. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Five days in Aspen or Honolulu?

Aspen is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Aspen, five days is sufficent for most. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Honolulu is a fun place to experience. Each neighborhood in Honolulu has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. This would be the perfect place to spend five days, as it has just the right amount of activities.

A week in Aspen or Honolulu?

Aspen is a great place to explore. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This ski town offers something for everyone.

Each neighborhood in Honolulu has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. Plenty of people spend one week in the area when traveling. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is often enough time to do most activities.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Bicycle Tours in United States of America, Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in United States of America, The Best Coach Bus Tours in United States of America, and The Best Adventure Tours to United States of America.

When comparing the travel costs between Aspen and Honolulu, we can see that Aspen is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Since both cities are in North America, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

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

Which is Bigger, Aspen or Honolulu?

Honolulu has a larger population, and is about 60 times larger than the population of Aspen. When comparing the sizes of Aspen and Honolulu, 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.