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

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Should you visit Aspen or Seattle?

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 Seattle 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 quaint, vibrant, and artsy ski town. This is a great small town that is just waiting to be explored. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. As this is a very quaint destination, you'll find it has a special atmosphere. Other popular activities here include live music, food, and hiking.

Seattle

Seattle is a cultural, outdoorsy, and bustling city. As it's a big city, visitors will find plenty to do, too. It offers plenty of beauty for visitors. Other popular activities here include museums, theater, and nightlife.

Aspen and Seattle: Pros and Cons

Aspen
Pros
  • Good music scene
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Small town charm
  • Impressive beauty
Seattle
Pros
  • Good music scene
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Big city activities


How is Aspen different from Seattle?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Aspen or Seattle Better for Food?

Aspen
Seattle

There are opportunities to sample the local cuisine at great restaurants in both Aspen and Seattle.

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.

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in Seattle. The city is famous for its seafood. Salmon, oysters, and Starbucks coffee are favorites here. Also check out the donuts at Pike's Place Market.


Is Aspen or Seattle Better for Nightlife?

Aspen
Seattle

It's hard to distinguish whether Aspen or Seattle 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.

If you're looking for night time activities Seattle has a few options to choose from. The city is known for its breweries and eclectic nightlife scene. The best neighborhoods for nightlife include Capitol Hill, Belltown, and Downtown.

Is Aspen or Seattle Better for Music?

Aspen
Seattle

Live music enthusiatsts will find something to enjoy in either Aspen or Seattle.

Aspen has become a hotbed of musicians and artists. Popular music venues in town include Silver City Mountain Saloon and Belly Up Aspen.

Seattle has a thriving music scene. The city has developed its own music culture around several genres including alternative rock and grunge.

Is Aspen or Seattle Better for Hiking?

Aspen
Seattle

Both Aspen and Seattle are destinations which offer 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.

Seattle offers some nice hiking trails. Just outside of town there are tons of beautiful natural spots where you can enjoy hiking through the Pacific Northwest landscapes.

Is Aspen or Seattle Better for Shopping?

Aspen
Seattle

Shopping is a popular activity in both Seattle and Aspen.

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

Plenty of visitors enjoy shopping while in Seattle. Shopping in town has an eclectic mix of high end brands, local vendors, and vintage shops.


Is Aspen or Seattle Better for Families?

Aspen
Seattle

Both Aspen and Seattle are fun to visit with kids.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Aspen. 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.

Seattle offers lots of family activities. There are several good museums as well as outdoor activities, parks, and a zoo. Make sure you check out the Burke Museum of Natural History and Culture, Volunteer Park, and Artists at Play Playground.

Is Aspen or Seattle Better for Couples?

Aspen
Seattle

Both Aspen and Seattle are good 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.

Seattle is a nice destination for couples. The city has a laid back vibe, a nice downtown area, and plenty of outdoor activities.

Is Aspen or Seattle Better for Public Transit?

Aspen
Seattle

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

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 Seattle offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There is a light rail system, a monorail, a street car, and buses.

Is Aspen or Seattle a more walkable city?

Aspen
Seattle

Aspen and Seattle both are comparable 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.

Seattle is somewhat walkable. Many neighborhoods are very walkable, particularly in the downtown and major tourist areas.


Should I spend more time in Seattle or Aspen?

How long in Aspen or Seattle?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Aspen and Seattle. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Aspen than Seattle.

The ideal length of time for a trip to Aspen is 3-5 days, and the ideal length of time for a trip to Seattle is 2-3 days.


  • How many days in Aspen or Seattle? Ideal Length of Stay
    Aspen 3-5 
    Seattle 2-3

One day in Aspen or Seattle?

Aspen is a small town with plenty to do. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. This ski town offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

Each neighborhood in Seattle has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. 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 Seattle?

Aspen might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Seattle. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. 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 Seattle?

Aspen is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Aspen has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

Seattle is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the big city destination of Seattle. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

A week in Aspen or Seattle?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Aspen. Since Aspen is a small town, it's easily explored when your time is limited. It's also a relaxing resort destination. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

You'll find shopping and museums around the progressive big city of Seattle. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Which city is cheaper, Seattle or Aspen?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Aspen is $235, while the average daily cost in Seattle is $156. 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 city. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Aspen and Seattle in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Aspen $136
    Seattle $94
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Aspen $272
    Seattle $188
Compare Hotels in Aspen and Seattle

Looking for a hotel in Aspen or Seattle? 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 Seattle


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 Seattle Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Aspen $45
    Seattle $18

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Aspen

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Aspen:

  • Private Departure Transfer to Aspen Airport (ASE): $36
  • Private Arrival Transfer from Aspen Airport (ASE): $36
  • Private Eagle County Regional Airport Transfer to Aspen: $400
  • Aspen hotel or address to Denver Airport (DEN) - Departure Private Transfer: $796
  • Private Transfer: Aspen to Denver International Airport (DEN): $1,321

Typical Local Transportation prices in Seattle

Here are some examples of typical transportation prices from actual travelers in Seattle:


  • Lightrail from Airport (for 2)
    $5.50
  • Roundtrip Ferry to Bainbridge Island (for 2)
    $15

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Seattle

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Seattle:

  • Arrival Private Transfer Seattle Airport SEA to Seattle or Cruise Port - Minibus: $195
  • Arrival Private Transfer from Seattle Airport SEA to Seattle by Business Car: $108
  • Chauffeured Airport Transfer to/from or Sea-Tac International Airport - One Way: $91
  • Cruise Port to Seattle Tacoma Airport (SEA) - Departure Private Transfer: $71
  • Departure Private Transfer Seattle or Cruise Port to Seattle Airport SEA Minibus: $195
  • Departure Private Transfer from Seattle to Seattle Airport SEA by Business Car: $108
  • Low Cost Private Transfer From Seattle Tacoma International Airport to Kent City - One Way: $62
  • Low Cost Private Transfer From Seattle Tacoma International Airport to Seattle City - One Way: $149
  • Low Cost Private Transfer From Seattle Tacoma International Airport to Tacoma City - One Way: $139
  • One-Way Seattle Private Transfer up to 12 Pax: Cruises, Sea-Tac, Hotels: $319
  • Private Airport Transfer: Seattle to Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA): $40
  • Private Departure Transfer from Seattle City to SEA Seattle Airport: $46

Is it cheaper to fly into Aspen or Seattle?

Prices for flights to both Seattle 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 $68
    Seattle $38

Typical Food prices in Seattle

Some typical examples of dining costs in Seattle are as follows:


  • Expresso & cookie at Pier 70
    $7.00
  • Cashews at Pike Place Market
    $6.00
  • 6 Mini Donuts at Pike Place Market
    $3.25
  • Chinese Lunch in International District (for 2)
    $21
  • Breakfast at Lowel's in Pike Place Market (for 2)
    $32
  • Breakfast at French Cafe (for 2)
    $37

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Seattle

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Seattle.

  • Chef Guided Food Tour of Pike Place Market- 1 Hour: $34
  • Chef Guided Food Tour of Pike Place Market- 2 Hours: $58
  • Pacific Northwest-Style Dinner and Pairing in Seattle: $61
  • Exclusive: Early-Access Food Tour of Pike Place Market: $73
  • Street Theater and Dinner in Seattle's Fremont District: $86
  • Seattle Dinner Cruise: $115

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Aspen $36
    Seattle $12

Tours and Activities in Aspen

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

  • Aspen's DarkSide Ghost Tour: $40
  • Aspen's Past to Present Historic Tour: $40
  • Glimpse of Aspen Tour: $40

Tours and Activities in Seattle

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Seattle are as follows:

  • Private Auto-guided Tour of Seattle: $4.96
  • Historic Ballard audio tour: A slice of Seattle's quirky history: $5.00
  • Skip the Line: Sky View Observatory Admission Tickets: $10
  • Smith Tower Straight Up Observatory Access Ticket: $12
  • Seattle Self-Guided Audio Tour: $14
  • Seattle Self-Guided Audio Tour: $15
  • Seattle Scavenger Hunt Adventure: $21
  • Seattle Walking Ghost Tour: $23
  • The Museum of Flight Admission Ticket: $25
  • Underground Walking Tour: $29
  • Beneath The Streets Underground History Tour: $29
  • Seattle Harbor Cruise: $36

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Aspen $16
    Seattle $13

Sample the Local Flavors in Seattle

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Seattle:

  • Seattle Bar Hunt: Sleepless in Seattle Bar Crawl: $12
  • Haunted Seattle Ghost and Pub Walking Tour: $27
  • Georgetown Brewery Tour: $72
  • Bon Vivant Woodinville Wine Tasting Tour: $98
  • Seattle Coffee, Chocolate and Wine Tour: $112
  • Seattle Wine Tour (Hourly): $135

About these numbers

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

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Aspen vs. Seattle Travel Comparison

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