A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Atlanta vs. Denver for Attractions, Food, Nightlife, and Families

Should you visit Atlanta or Denver?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Atlanta or Denver, this travel comparison, which includes costs, can help. The overall cost of travel is usually a consideration when deciding where to go next, and the cost comparison down below can help you decide based on the average prices from other travelers along with your own travel budget.

Atlanta

Atlanta is a sprawling, suburban, and cultural city. Travelers will also find plenty of sights and attractions here, as it's a big city that attracts lots of visitors. And you can't forget about the nightlife, food, and shopping.

Denver

Denver is a accessible, sprawling, and park-filled city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. It's also popular because of the shopping, skiing, and nightlife.

Atlanta and Denver: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Very walkable
  • Big city activities
Pros
  • Popular for skiing
  • Active nightlife
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • Less popular for food
  • Less popular for shopping
  • Less popular with backpackers
  • Less walkable


Is there more to do in Atlanta or Denver?

Travelers will generally find more things to do in Atlanta than Denver. While Denver is larger than Atlanta, Atlanta has more sights and attractions for tourists. Atlanta is more popular for its museums, food, nightlife, shopping, and big city activities, while Denver is known for its skiing and hiking. Atlanta is more touristy than Denver and is popular for its world class aquarium, its role as host of the 1996 Olympic Games, and its influence during the Civil Rights Movement. It is also home to the Georgia Aquarium. Denver is popular for serving as a gateway to the Rocky Mountains and the many national parks that are in the area.

How is Atlanta different from Denver?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Atlanta or Denver Better for Skiing?

Atlanta
Denver

Denver is a nice place to visit for skiing. However, Atlanta is not a skiing destination.

Head to Denver for some great skiing and other winter activities. Although there's no skiing in the immediate area, there is a huge list of world class ski resorts within an hour or two of town. Two of the closest are Echo Mountain Resort and Loveland Ski Area.

Atlanta is not a skiing destination.


Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Atlanta or Denver?

Atlanta
Denver

Atlanta is renowned for its sights and museums. However, Denver is not a good city for its museums and history.

The museums, monuments, and landmarks in Atlanta are among the most recognizable in the world. The museums range in topic from history to science and art. The country's largest aquarium, the Georgia Aquarium, is in Atlanta as well. It's home to whale sharks, stingrays, and a diversity of marine life. Other museums around town include the Atlanta History Center, the Fernbank Museum of Natural History, the High Museum of Art, the World of Coca Cola, the David J. Sencer CDC Museum, and the Delta Flight Museum. There are also many monuments and sites including the Martin Luther King Jr. National Historic Site.

While most people don't head to Denver specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. Many people use Denver as a starting or ending point for their mountain and national park trip, but those who linger can visit some of the city's museums and sights. Popular museums include the Denver Museum of Nature and Science, the History Colorado Center, and the Forney Museum of Transportation.

Is the Food Better in Atlanta or Denver? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Atlanta
Denver

Atlanta is a well-known place for its local cuisine and restaurants. However, Denver is not a good city for its restaurants.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Atlanta. It's a huge city with a wide selection of restaurants including international, local, and classic southern styles. Fried chicken, biscuits, diner food, and barbecue are all popular. For a classic southern breakfast check out The OK Cafe and for a quintessential Atlanta experience go to The Varsity.

Denver may not make the list for most foodies, but you'll find what you need while you're in town. It's a pretty large city, so you'll find some nice local restaurants, but the foodie scene is still emerging in many neighborhoods. A number of restaurants offer outdoor seating, which is nice. You'll also find a growing selection of international restaurants. For something uniquely local, you should try the Bison steak and fried pickles.

Is Atlanta or Denver Better for Nightlife?

Atlanta
Denver

Atlanta is a well-known place for nightlife and partying. Also, Denver is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its evening party scene.

Atlanta offers plenty to do in the evening. The nightlife scene is diverse with trendy bars, dance clubs, and huge music halls. There are a number of neighborhoods that each have their own atmosphere. For some of the best nightlife check out the upscale bars in Buckhead, the music venues in Midtown, the hipster vibe in Edgewood, or the laid-back atmosphere in Virginia Highland.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Denver. The city has come a long way with its nightlife. There's a great craft beer scene and the downtown area has really come to life. Popular bars and clubs in town include the Grizzly Rose and 54Thirty Rooftop. Many places are concentrated in the Soco Nightlife District.


Is Atlanta or Denver Better for Hiking?

Atlanta
Denver

Denver is a nice place to visit for hiking. However, Atlanta is not a hiking destination.

Denver has hiking trails worth exploring. The city is very close to many beautiful parks and hiking areas in the Rocky Mountains. It's not hard to make a day trip from town and enjoy some great hiking. Nice options include the Trading Post Trail in Red Rocks Mountain Park, Bergen Peak near Evergreen, and Chimney Gulch Trail near the town of Golden.

Atlanta is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Atlanta or Denver?

Atlanta
Denver

Atlanta is renowned for its shopping opportunities. Also, Denver is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its shopping areas.

The abundance of shops in Atlanta make it a world-class shopping destination. There are a number of great shopping districts around town. Atlantic Station is popular with a movie theater and ice skating. Buckhead has boutique and local vendors and Lenox Square has a large shopping mall.

Denver has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. The city has many outlet malls that budget shoppers appreciate. There are also weekend farmer's markets, boutique shopping areas, and all of the major chains that you'll find in most larger cities.

Is Atlanta or Denver Better for Families?

Atlanta
Denver

Atlanta is a well-known place for its family-friendly activities. Also, Denver is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

Atlanta is a very kid-friendly city. There is no shortage of playgrounds around town, but a highlight of any trip is a visit to the Georgia Aquarium. It's the largest aquarium in the United States and its home to whale sharks, hammerheads, dolphin shows, and more. It is so much more than just an aquarium, and it truly is a not to be missed experience. Also worth a visit are Zoo Atlanta, the Center of Puppetry Arts, Stone Mountain, Fernbank Museum of Natural History, and the Lego Discovery Center. If you have the chance to see the Atlanta Braves play, that's also a rewarding experience.

Denver is a family-friendly city. It is a family-friendly city with museums, playgrounds, and plenty of outdoor activities. There are also a few ropes courses near town that kids and adults alike will enjoy. Popular activities include the Denver Zoo, the Denver Museum of Nature and Science, and Children's Museum of Denver at Marsico Campus.


Is Atlanta or Denver Better for Couples?

Atlanta
Denver

Atlanta and Denver are both good to visit as a couple.

Atlanta is a good city for couples to visit. It's a big city, so there are a number of date night activities available such as orchestra concerts, theater shows, and fine dining. The city also has many outdoor areas like Lake Lanier and Piedmont Park. The Georgia Aquarium is world class, and there are other amazing museums around town as well.

Denver is a nice destination for couples. There are many beautiful and romantic outdoor activities in the area such as parks and botanical gardens. There are also spas, including the impressive Spa at the Brown Palace, as well as upscale restaurants and fun bars and clubs to explore.

Is Atlanta or Denver Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Atlanta
Denver

Atlanta is a nice place to visit for backpackers. However, Denver is not a good city for backpackers and budget travelers.

It's common for backpackers to visit Atlanta. While it's usually overlooked by backpackers, there are actually a couple of hostels around town and a surprising number of activities worth experiencing. The city's large airport make it a convenient entry point for international travelers.

Denver is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. Some backpackers fly into Denver to begin their national park tour. There is a hostel or two around town, and if you leave town quickly you'll find campgrounds not far away.

Is Atlanta or Denver Better for Students?

Atlanta
Denver

Atlanta is a well-known place for students. Also, Denver is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its student-friendly activities.

Atlanta is a great city to visit as a student. There are a number of universities in town such as Emory, Georgia Institute of Technology, Georgia State University, and Morehouse College. The city is sprawling, but it's also full of entertainment and activities that students will enjoy.

Plenty of students visit Denver. There are a few students in the city, but there isn't a college town vibe that you'd get at other nearby university areas.


Is Atlanta or Denver Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Atlanta
Denver

Denver is a nice place to visit for times when you don't have a car. However, Atlanta is not known for its public transit.

While Denver offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. If you're not planning to leave town, the light rail and bus systems offer good access to much of Denver.

Public transit is generally limited in Atlanta. For such a large city, the public transportation system is very limited. MARTA is the main transit authority and there are a few subway lines that cross the city as well as bus routes running around town.

Is Atlanta or Denver a more walkable city?

Atlanta
Denver

Atlanta is a nice place to visit for its high level of walkability. However, Denver is not a good city for its ease of walking around.

Atlanta is a somewhat walkable place. Parts of the city are walkable, but most of the sights are spread out and require a car to access. Within neighborhoods, there are a few places that are more pedestrian-friendly such as Downtown, Midtown, Virginia Highlands, and Buckhead.

Denver is not a very walkable city. While the downtown area is generally walkable, this is still a sprawling city where you'll really want to have a car to access areas outside of town.

For even more information, also check out Is Atlanta Worth Visiting? and Is Denver Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Denver or Atlanta?

How long in Atlanta or Denver?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Atlanta and Denver. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Atlanta than in Denver. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Atlanta, and 2-3 days is enough time in Denver.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Atlanta than Denver 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 Atlanta.


  • How many days in Atlanta or Denver? Ideal Length of Stay
    Atlanta 2-4 
    Denver 2-3

One day in Atlanta or Denver?

Atlanta is a bustling city that offers something for everyone. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

In Denver, you'll find shopping and skiing. This city offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.


A weekend in Atlanta or Denver?

Atlanta is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

In Denver, you'll find skiing and nightlife. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Denver has to offer.

Five days in Atlanta or Denver?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Atlanta. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Denver is a great place to explore. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

A week in Atlanta or Denver?

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the diverse big city of Atlanta. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Denver. Many people enjoy the shopping and skiing when visiting Denver. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.


Which place is cheaper, Denver or Atlanta?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Atlanta is $173, while the average daily cost in Denver is $218. 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 Atlanta and Denver in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Atlanta $90
    Denver $87
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Atlanta $180
    Denver $174
Compare Hotels in Atlanta and Denver

Looking for a hotel in Atlanta or Denver? 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 Atlanta


Hotels in Denver


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: Atlanta Hotel Prices and Denver Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Atlanta $44
    Denver $101
Typical Local Transportation Prices in Atlanta

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


  • MARTA Subway Ticket
    $4.00

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Atlanta

Also for Atlanta, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Hartsfield Jackson Airport (ATL) to Lithia Springs - Arrival Private Transfer: $33
  • San Jose Airport: One-Way Private Transfer to San Jose Costa: $35
  • Atlanta Airport (ATL) to Lithia Springs -Arrival Private Transfer: $37
  • Private Departure Transfer to Atlanta Airport (ATL): $40
  • Transfer in executiveprivate vehicle from Atlanta Airport(ATL) -Atlanta Downtown: $53
  • Transfer in executiveprivate vehicle from Atlanta Downtown -Atlanta Airport(ATL): $53
  • Hartsfield Jackson Airport (ATL) to Lithia Springs - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $67
  • Private Car Transfer From Atlanta Airport to Atlanta Metro Area: $67
  • Transfer in Executive Private Minivan from Atlanta Airport to Atlanta Downtown: $67
  • Transfer in Executive Private Minivan from Atlanta Downtown to Atlanta Airport: $67
  • Atlanta Private Airport Transfers: $67
  • Atlanta Airport (ATL) to Lithia Springs RoundTrip PrivateTransfer: $73

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Denver

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Denver:

  • Denver Airport Transfer To/From Aspen for 6-14 Sprinter Van: $1,950
  • Denver Airport (DEN) to Snowmass/Aspen - Arrival Private Transfer: $300
  • Denver Airport (DEN) to Steamboat - Arrival Private Transfer: $289
  • Denver Airport (DEN): Private Transfer to Denver hotels: $257
  • Denver Airport (DEN) to Avon/Vail Valley - Arrival Private Transfer : $242
  • Denver Airport (DEN) to Vail/Beaver Creek/Avon - Arrival Transfer: $222
  • Denver Airport (BJC) to Beaver Creek Ski Resort -Arrival Transfer: $222
  • Denver Airport (DEN) to Aspen hotel or address - Arrival Private Transfer : $222
  • Private One Way Transfer From and To Denver Colorado: $200
  • Denver Airport to Breckenridge/Keystone/Copper - Arrival Transfer: $200
  • Denver Airport (DEN) to Breckenridge - Arrival Private Transfer: $196
  • Denver Airport (DEN) to Keystone resort - Arrival Private Transfer: $178

Is it cheaper to fly into Atlanta or Denver?

Prices for flights to both Denver and Atlanta 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
    Atlanta $43
    Denver $42
Typical Food Prices in Atlanta

Here are some examples of typical meal expenses from previous travelers to Atlanta:


  • Fast Food Lunch (for 2)
    $15
  • Lunch
    $20

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Atlanta

For Atlanta, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • 2 Hour Guided Wood Fired Pizza Class in Atlanta: $55
  • Atlanta Wood-Fired Pizza Making Class with Classpop!: $55
  • City Lights Atlanta Night-Time Tour with Photos & Dinner Stop: $65
  • City Lights Night Tour with Photos & Dinner Stop: $65
  • 2 Hour Historic Market Food Tour and Hands-On Biscuit Class: $70
  • Historic Market Food Tour + Biscuit Class: $70
  • Ponce City Market 2.5-Hour Weekend Food Tour: $99
  • Food Tour of Inman Park and the Atlanta Beltline: $99

Typical Food Prices in Denver

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


  • Sushi Dinner (for 2)
    $61

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Denver

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

  • Denver : Hands-on Cooking Classes With Chef Kevin: $55
  • Denver : Paella Cooking Class With Local Chef: $55
  • Downtown Denver Savory Food Tour: $74
  • RiNo Arts District Food Tour: $79
  • Downtown Denver Food Tour: $79
  • Arts District Walking Food Tour: $79
  • Mystery Puzzle Food Tour in Golden, CO: $80
  • The Dinner Detective Murder Mystery Dinner Show - Denver, CO: $86

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Atlanta $56
    Denver $52

Tours and Activities in Atlanta

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Atlanta.

  • Atlanta Civil Rights Self Guided Audio App Walk of Freedom Tour: $6.75
  • Civil Rights Self-Guided Audio App Walking Tour: $6.75
  • Atlanta Self-Guided Audio Tour: $9.00
  • Self-Guided Audio Walking Tour: $9.00
  • Atlanta Self-Guided Walking Audio Tour Guide: $9.00
  • Olympic Park & Pemberton Place: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $9.99
  • Georgia Aquarium at Home: Cold Water Quest Virtual Tour: $11
  • Georgia Aquarium: Ocean Voyager Virtual Tour: $11
  • The Civil Rights Movement in A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $12
  • Civil Rights Movement in A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $12
  • Atlanta Scavenger Hunt and Sights Self-Guided Tour: $14
  • Atlanta Scavenger Hunt and Sights Self-Guided Tour: $14

Tours and Activities in Denver

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

  • Colorado Green Friendly Mountain Sunset Tour from Denver: $79
  • Denver's Wild West Walking Tour & Ballpark Museum : $24
  • Shared Golden's History Wagon Ride Tour in Colorado: $65
  • Small-Group Cocktail Tour in Denver: $99
  • 1-Hour Ghost Tour with Ghost Hunting Gear in Cheeseman Park: $25
  • 1.5 Hour RiNo Art District Walking Tour: $28
  • 2 Hour Guided Segway Tour: $69
  • 2 Hour LoDo Historic Walking Tour in Denver: $28
  • 3 Hour Private Walking Tour in Denver with Professional Guide: $232
  • 3 Hour Whiskey and History Tour: $99
  • Archery Dodgeball - 75 Minute Indoor Experience: $31
  • Beginner Rock Climbing Tour: $200

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Atlanta $17
    Denver $5.31

Sample the Local Flavors in Atlanta

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

  • Guided Brewery Tour in Atlanta: $12
  • Drag Queen Guided Pub Crawl and Cabaret Show: $36
  • ATLANTA Yes, Queen! Drag Queen Pub Crawl : $40
  • Half-Day Wine Tastings in the North Georgia Mountains : $115
  • Full-Day Wine Country Wine Tastings From Atlanta : $120
  • Bartram Trail Hike plus Wine Tasting: $159

Sample the Local Flavors in Denver

Also in Denver, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • Pub Crawl Through Denver RiNo Arts District : $25
  • 4-Hour Downtown Denver Pub Crawl: $25
  • California Vs. Colorado Wine Tasting: $30
  • Denver Terrors Boos and Booze Haunted Pub Crawl: $35
  • Terrors Boos and Booze Haunted Pub Crawl: $35
  • Private Vintner's Wine Tasting Experience in Colorado: $40
  • Golden Ghosts & Spirits Haunted Pub Crawl: $45
  • Vintner's Personalized Wine Tasting Experience: $60
  • Wild West Pub Crawl in Golden: $65
  • Craft Distillery Bus Tour: $71
  • Wine Tasting with Cheese, Charcuterie, and Dessert : $74
  • Denver Pedicab Brewery Tour: $130


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

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


Which is Bigger, Atlanta or Denver?

Denver has a larger population, and is about 31% larger than the population of Atlanta. When comparing the sizes of Atlanta and Denver, 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.