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

Should you visit Aspen or Moab?

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 Moab 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.

Moab

Moab is a scenic, adventurous, and active town. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. Other popular activities here include shopping, food, and hiking.

Aspen and Moab: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Aspen or Moab?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Aspen than Moab, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Aspen is better known for its skiing, food, nightlife, music, resorts, shopping, christmas markets, small town charm, and quaint atmosphere, while Moab is more popular for its museums, hiking, and impressive beauty. Moab is more touristy than Aspen and is popular for its desert landscapes and the iconic arches found at Arches National Park. Aspen is well known for its world-class skiing, many food, film, and music festivals, and its stunning mountain hikes. Also, Aspen is famous for The Maroon Bells.

How is Aspen different from Moab?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Aspen or Moab Better for Skiing?

Aspen is very popular for skiing. However, Moab is not a skiing destination.

If you're an avid snow skiier, Aspen should be on your list. 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.

Moab is not a skiing destination.

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

Moab is a town with a few options for its museums and landmarks. However, Aspen does not have museums and landmarks.

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.

Aspen does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Aspen is very popular for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Moab is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its local cuisine and restaurants.

For foodies, Aspen is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. 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.

Visitors will find a budding food and restaurant scene 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 Aspen or Moab Better for Nightlife?

Aspen is great for nightlife. However, Moab is not a good destination for nightlife and partying.

Many people head to Aspen for the nightlife scene. 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.

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 Aspen or Moab Better for Music?

Aspen is great for live music. However, Moab 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.

Moab is not a live music destination.

Is Aspen or Moab Better for Resorts?

Aspen is great for its luxury resorts. However, Moab is not a resort destination.

Aspen is known as a popular and fun resort destination. Popular resorts in the area include The Little Nell, Hotel Jerome, and St. Regis Aspen.

Moab is not a resort destination.

Is Aspen or Moab Better for Hiking?

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

Around Moab visitors will find world-class hiking trails. 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.

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 Moab?

Aspen 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 Aspen. There are many great local shops and art galleries where you can pick interesting items or fine art.

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 Aspen or Moab Better for Christmas?

Aspen is very popular for its Christmas holiday experiences. However, Moab 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.

Moab does not offer Christmas activities.

Is Aspen or Moab Better for Christmas Markets?

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

Aspen is a popular destination to visit Christmas markets. The town has a charming Christmas market that is fun to explore and has around 40 vendors.

Moab does not offer Christmas markets.

Is Aspen or Moab Better for Families?

Moab is a great destination for its family-friendly activities. Also, Aspen is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

Moab is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. 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.

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 Moab Better for Couples?

Both Aspen and Moab are excellent destinations for a couple's getaway.

Couples visit Aspen frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. 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.

Moab is a great ski town if you're traveling as a couple. 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 Aspen or Moab Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

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

Moab is a very popular town for backpackers and budget travelers. 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.

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

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

While Aspen offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There are several shuttle buses around the town.

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 Aspen or Moab a more walkable city?

Aspen is great for its walkability. However, Moab is not a good destination for its high level of walkability.

Aspen is very walkable. 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.

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 Aspen Worth Visiting? and Is Moab Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Moab or Aspen?

How long in Aspen or Moab?

In either Aspen or Moab, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. In our opinion, Aspen has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Aspen than Moab. In general, 3-5 days is a good amount of time for Aspen, and 2-5 days is enough time in Moab.

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

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

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

One day in Aspen or Moab?

Aspen is a small town where visitors enjoy the skiing and nightlife. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

In Moab, many people enjoy the food and shopping that this scenic destination offers. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. Lots of people come for the hiking. This town 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 Moab?

Aspen is a fun place to experience. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Moab. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. This would be the perfect place to spend a weekend, as it has just the right amount of activities. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Five days in Aspen or Moab?

Aspen might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. This ski town offers something for everyone. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. Plenty of people spend five days in the area when traveling. Five days is often enough time to do most activities.

Moab is a fun place to experience. In Moab, many people enjoy the food and shopping that this destination offers. Lots of people come for the hiking. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. This would be the perfect place to spend five days, as it has just the right amount of activities.

A week in Aspen or Moab?

Because Aspen is a small town, it's easy to explore in a short amount of time. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. 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.

You'll find shopping and food around the adventurous destination of Moab. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Lots of people come for the hiking. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

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

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

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

Which is Bigger, Aspen or Moab?

Aspen has a larger population, and is about 18% larger than the population of Moab. When comparing the sizes of Aspen 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.