A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Aspen vs. Park City Utah for Skiing, Food, Nightlife, and Families

Should you visit Aspen or Park City Utah?

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 Park City Utah 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 outdoorsy, authentic, and charming ski town. With plenty of activities and sights, this is a small town worth visiting. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. As this is a very quaint destination, you'll find it has a special atmosphere. It's also popular because of the shopping, skiing, and nightlife.

Park City Utah

Park City Utah is a high energy, adventurous, and active town. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. Other popular activities here include skiing, nightlife, and food.

Aspen and Park City Utah: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular for skiing
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Good for hiking
  • Popular at Christmas
  • Known for Christmas markets
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Small town charm
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less family-friendly
  • Less popular with backpackers
Pros
  • Popular for skiing
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty


Is there more to do in Aspen or Park City Utah?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Aspen. Although Aspen and Park City Utah are popular destinations, Aspen has more sights and attractions for tourists. Aspen is very popular for its food, music, christmas markets, small town charm, and quaint atmosphere, while Park City Utah attracts visitors for its museums and nightlife. Park City Utah is more touristy than Aspen and is popular for the Sundance Film Festival and world-renowned skiing and snowboarding. Aspen is famous for its world-class skiing, many food, film, and music festivals, and its stunning mountain hikes. It is also well known for The Maroon Bells.

How is Aspen different from Park City Utah?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Aspen or Park City Utah Better for Skiing?

Aspen
Park City Utah

Aspen and Park City Utah are fantastic places to visit for winter sports such as skiing.

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.

Park City Utah is a top destination for snow skiing, and it attracts visitors from around the world. Two ski resorts are nearby, Park City Mountain and Deer Valley Resort. Park City Mountain is the largest resort in the United States. There are 7,300 acres that include two different base areas, 41 lifts, and 6 terrain parks. There's ski-in ski-out access from the town's Main Street, and options for skiers and snowboarders of all levels. Deer Valley Resort is a ritzy and upscale option that is more glamorous and high class.


Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Aspen or Park City Utah?

Aspen
Park City Utah

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

Park City Utah offers a handful of options for museums and historical sights. There are a couple of museums and some nice art galleries in town. There are also museums at Olympic Park.

Aspen does not have museums and landmarks.

Is the Food Better in Aspen or Park City Utah? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Aspen
Park City Utah

Aspen is an amazing ski town to visit for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Park City Utah is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Eat your way through Aspen, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. 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.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Park City Utah makes for a great culinary experience. Park City has a wonderful food scene with many award-winning restaurants. Many restaurants offer fine dining experiences and even the more casual options are high priced with high quality dishes. You'll also find many great breakfast restaurants and cafes so you can start your day off with a filling meal.

Is Aspen or Park City Utah Better for Nightlife?

Aspen
Park City Utah

Park City Utah is renowned for its evening party scene. Also, Aspen is still popular, but not quite as popular for nightlife.

Park City Utah is a destination that you simply have to visit at least once for nightlife. After a day on the slopes, you'll return to a vibrant nightlife scene with bars and live music. Most of the action is concentrated around Main Street and it's easy to walk to most venues, even when the weather is cold and snowy.

The nightlife in Aspen has something for everybody. 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.


Is Aspen or Park City Utah Better for Music?

Aspen
Park City Utah

Aspen is great for its music scene. However, Park City Utah 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.

Park City Utah is not a live music destination.

Is Aspen or Park City Utah Better for Resorts?

Aspen
Park City Utah

If luxury resorts are your style, both Aspen and Park City Utah have very good options.

In Aspen, you'll find some of the region's top resorts. Popular resorts in the area include The Little Nell, Hotel Jerome, and St. Regis Aspen.

There are plenty of resorts in Park City Utah to choose from. You'll find most of the major chains as well as smaller and more personal hotels. Many hotels have hot tubs and pools, and many offer easy access to the ski gondola.

Is Aspen or Park City Utah Better for Hiking?

Aspen
Park City Utah

Both Aspen and Park City Utah are destinations which offer very good hiking.

You'll find a nice variety of hiking trails around Aspen. 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.

Many visitors go to Park City Utah for the hiking trails. If you're visiting during a warmer month, hiking is a great way to experience the area's beauty. There are more than 350 miles of hiking trails that pass through forests, canyons, creeks, and mountain ridges. You'll find options for every skill level and regardless of the hike you choose, it's sure to take your breath away.


Is the Shopping Better in Aspen or Park City Utah?

Aspen
Park City Utah

Shopping is a popular activity in both Park City Utah 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 Park City Utah. Wander down the historic Main Street and enjoy shopping at the many quaint vendors and art galleries. There are also outlet malls in town.

Is Aspen or Park City Utah Better for Christmas?

Aspen
Park City Utah

Aspen is an amazing ski town to visit for its Christmas holiday experiences. However, Park City Utah 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.

Park City Utah does not offer Christmas activities.

Is Aspen or Park City Utah Better for Christmas Markets?

Aspen
Park City Utah

Aspen is great for visiting Christmas markets. However, Park City Utah does not offer Christmas markets.

The Christmas markets in Aspen offer plenty to see during the holidays. The town has a charming Christmas market that is fun to explore and has around 40 vendors.

Park City Utah does not offer Christmas markets.


Is Aspen or Park City Utah Better for Families?

Aspen
Park City Utah

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

Park City Utah is an extremely popular town to visit for families. There is kid-family skiing, ziplining, and alpine coasters. The free museums at Olympic Park are fun to explore as well and are filled with memorabilia from the 2002 Olympics. Additionally, there are kid-friendly restaurants and playgrounds where the little ones can run around.

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 Park City Utah Better for Couples?

Aspen
Park City Utah

Park City Utah is renowned for couples. Also, Aspen is still popular, but not quite as popular for romance.

Park City Utah is a great town for couples, as it has plenty to offer. In addition to skiing and snowboarding, you can enjoy the area's many great restaurants and beautiful hikes. There are romantic hotels as well as sleigh rides and evening walks that will make this an unforgettable destination.

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 Park City Utah Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Aspen
Park City Utah

Park City Utah is a town with good options for backpackers. However, Aspen is a ski town with minimal options for backpackers and budget travelers.

Park City Utah is a good town to visit for backpackers. Although the town is notoriously expensive, there is a hostel in town that appeals to backpackers.

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 Park City Utah Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Aspen
Park City Utah

Park City Utah is a great destination for its public transit. Also, Aspen is still popular, but not quite as popular for times when you don't have a car.

The public transit in Park City Utah can get you to most places easily. There are 13 free bus routes as well as seasonal transportation providers.

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

Is Aspen or Park City Utah a more walkable city?

Aspen
Park City Utah

Park City Utah is renowned for its ease of walking around. Also, Aspen is still popular, but not quite as popular for its walkability.

Getting around Park City Utah on foot is easy. It's a very walkable town and is easy to explore on foot.

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.

For even more information, also check out Is Aspen Worth Visiting? and Is Park City Utah Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Park City Utah or Aspen?

How long in Aspen or Park City Utah?

In either Aspen or Park City Utah, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. In our opinion, Park City Utah has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Park City Utah than Aspen. However, 3-5 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Park City Utah 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 Park City Utah.


  • How many days in Aspen or Park City Utah? Ideal Length of Stay
    Aspen 3-5 
    Park City Utah 3-5

One day in Aspen or Park City Utah?

Aspen might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

In Park City Utah, many people enjoy the food and shopping that this active destination offers. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. 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 Park City Utah?

Aspen is a great place to explore. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Anyone can find something fun to do here. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Park City Utah. 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 Park City Utah?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Aspen. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. It offers something for everyone. Because of this, five days is usually enough time for a trip here.

Park City Utah is a fun place to experience. In Park City Utah, many people enjoy the skiing and nightlife that this destination offers. 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 Park City Utah?

Aspen is a small town, so it's a great destination if you're short on time. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. Your budget might influence how long you stay. 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 nightlife and food around the high energy destination of Park City Utah. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.


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.


Which place is cheaper, Park City Utah or Aspen?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Aspen is $293, while the average daily cost in Park City Utah is $320. 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 Aspen and Park City Utah in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Aspen $170
    Park City Utah $202
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Aspen $340
    Park City Utah $404
Compare Hotels in Aspen and Park City Utah

Looking for a hotel in Aspen or Park City Utah? 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 Aspen


Hotels in Park City Utah


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: Aspen Hotel Prices and Park City Utah Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Aspen $56
    Park City Utah $72

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Aspen

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Aspen:

  • Aspen/Pitkin County Airport (ASE) - Private Transfer Arrival or Departure: $269
  • Aspen hotel or address to Denver Airport (DEN) - Departure Private Transfer: $217

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Park City Utah

Also for Park City Utah, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Canyons Village to Salt Lake Airport (SLC) - Departure Transfer: $114
  • Departure Transfer from Park City Ski Resort to Provo Airport PVU: $33
  • Park City Hotels to Salt Lake City Airport (SLC) - Departure Private Transfer: $90

Is it cheaper to fly into Aspen or Park City Utah?

Prices for flights to both Park City Utah and Aspen 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
    Aspen $85
    Park City Utah $65

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Aspen $45
    Park City Utah $68

Tours and Activities in Aspen

Here are a few actual costs in Aspen for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • Aspen Puzzling Adventure: $35
  • Aspen's DarkSide Ghost Tour: $40
  • Aspen's Off the Beaten Path Scenic Walking Tour: $40
  • Aspen's Off the Beaten Path Tour: $40
  • Aspen's Past to Present Historic Tour: $40
  • City Highlights Walking Tour: $40
  • Dark History Ghost-Themed Guided Walking Tour: $40
  • From Past to Present History Walking Tour: $40
  • Highlights of Aspen Tour: $40

Tours and Activities in Park City Utah

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Park City Utah.

  • Park City Puzzling Adventure: $35
  • Privately Guided Snowshoe Experience: $108
  • Urban Art and Historical E-Bike Tour in Park City: $175
  • 2 Hours Off Road Tour in Utah: $175
  • Guided Fly Fishing Experience in Park City: $260

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Aspen $20
    Park City Utah $46


When comparing the travel costs between Aspen and Park City Utah, we can see that Park City Utah 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 Park City Utah Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Aspen or Park City Utah?

Park City Utah has a larger population, and is about 43% larger than the population of Aspen. When comparing the sizes of Aspen and Park City Utah, 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.