A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Atlantic City vs. Beaver Creek for Nightlife, Families, Food, and Resorts

Should you visit Atlantic City or Beaver Creek?

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

Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for Atlantic City and Beaver Creek. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.

Atlantic City

Atlantic City is a colorful, glitzy, and flashy city. Other reasons to visit include shopping, nightlife, and food.

Beaver Creek

Beaver Creek is a charming, active, and adventurous town. It's also known for hiking, shopping, and skiing.

Atlantic City and Beaver Creek: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Popular beach
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
Things to Consider
  • Less family-friendly
Pros
  • Popular for skiing
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less popular with backpackers


Is there more to do in Atlantic City or Beaver Creek?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Beaver Creek. Although Atlantic City and Beaver Creek are both popular with visitors, Beaver Creek has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Beaver Creek is more popular for its skiing, theatre productions, food, and hiking, while Atlantic City is known for its museums & sights, nightlife, resorts, and beaches. Atlantic City is popular for its casinos, gambling culture, nightlife scene, and wild personality Beaver Creek is popular for its skiing and charming atmosphere It is also home to Beaver Creek Golf Club.

How is Atlantic City different from Beaver Creek?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Atlantic City or Beaver Creek Better for Skiing?

Atlantic City
Beaver Creek

Beaver Creek is a world-class destination for winter skiing. However, Atlantic City is not a skiing destination.

Beaver Creek is a top destination for snow skiing, and it attracts visitors from around the world. Beaver Creek Ski Resort is a top ski destination with 26 lifts and 149 different trails. It climbs to an elevation of 11,440 feet and the village is filled with ski-in/ski-out accommodation. There's also an excellent ski school.

Atlantic City is not a skiing destination.


Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Atlantic City or Beaver Creek?

Atlantic City
Beaver Creek

Atlantic City is adequate for its historical sights. However, Beaver Creek does not have museums and landmarks.

While most people don't head to Atlantic City specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. While most people don't spend their time in museums, there is the Marine Mammal Stranding Center, the African American Heritage Museum, and the Noyes Museum Galleries.

Beaver Creek does not have museums and landmarks.

Is Atlantic City or Beaver Creek Better for Theater?

Atlantic City
Beaver Creek

Beaver Creek is not so good for theatre. However, Atlantic City is not a theatre destination.

Beaver Creek has a few theater choices. There are a couple of art galleries around town.

Atlantic City is not a theatre destination.

Is the Food Better in Atlantic City or Beaver Creek? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Atlantic City
Beaver Creek

Beaver Creek is well known for its restaurant scene. Also, Atlantic City is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Beaver Creek makes for a great culinary experience. There are many great dining options where you can enjoy a meal after working up an appetite on the slopes. The cuisine has many mountain classics as well as fine dining and more casual restaurants.

Atlantic City has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. There are budget buffets around town as well as seafood restaurants and even some fine dining. Salt water taffy is a local specialty that you should pick up while you're in the area.


Is Atlantic City or Beaver Creek Better for Nightlife?

Atlantic City
Beaver Creek

Atlantic City is a world-class destination for nightlife. However, Beaver Creek is not known for nightlife and partying.

People head to Atlantic City just to party. This is a city that is all about its nightlife scene. Many visitors come here just to party, and you'll find clubs with DJs or bands playing from sunset to sunrise. There are glitzy lounges and dive bars with everything in between. As a gambling town, there are casinos and all-night activities that keep the energy going round the clock.

Most people don't head to Beaver Creek specifically for the nightlife scene, but you can find a few options. You won't find a wild nightlife scene, but most of the activities center around the Vilar Performing Arts Center.

Is Atlantic City or Beaver Creek Better for Resorts?

Atlantic City
Beaver Creek

Atlantic City is a great city for its luxury resorts. Also, Beaver Creek is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its resorts.

Atlantic City is a popular resort destination that attracts visitors from everywhere. The beach and boardwalk are lined with casinos and resorts. There are many recognizable names such as Harrah's, Bally's, Caesars, Hard Rock, and the Tropicana.

With a selection of resorts, Beaver Creek makes a nice vacation spot. There are many resorts in the area including the Westin and the Hyatt.

Is Atlantic City or Beaver Creek Better for Beaches?

Atlantic City
Beaver Creek

Atlantic City is a nice place to visit for its beaches. However, Beaver Creek is not a beach destination.

Atlantic City has a beach worth visiting. There's a Boardwalk that runs along the beach and is lined with piers and hotels. The Downtown Beach is the most accessible, and where most tourists hang out. If you're willing to travel a little further, there are some nice beaches nearby such as Margate Beach and Brigantine Beach.

Beaver Creek is not a beach destination.


Is Atlantic City or Beaver Creek Better for Hiking?

Atlantic City
Beaver Creek

Beaver Creek is well known for its hiking experiences. However, Atlantic City is not a hiking destination.

You'll find a nice variety of hiking trails around Beaver Creek. The surrounding countryside is filled with trails that take you through flowered meadows, along scenic ridgelines, and to the top of dramatic peaks. During the warmer months, hiking is a wonderful way to enjoy the area.

Atlantic City is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Atlantic City or Beaver Creek?

Atlantic City
Beaver Creek

Shopping is a popular activity in both Beaver Creek and Atlantic City.

Atlantic City is a great destination for shopping. You'll find many souvenir shops along the boardwalk. There's also a Tangier Outlet Mall in the area. Some of the hotels such as the Tropicana have their own shopping areas as well.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Beaver Creek. The village has pedestrian streets that are lined with fashion boutiques, jewelry stores, sporting equipment stores, and art galleries.

Is Atlantic City or Beaver Creek Better for Families?

Atlantic City
Beaver Creek

Beaver Creek is a world-class destination for its family-friendly activities. However, Atlantic City is not particularly known for its kid-friendly activities.

With a huge array of activities for kids, Beaver Creek is very family-friendly. This is one of the most kid-friendly ski resorts in the country. There's a ski and snowboard school where kids can enjoy private or group lessons as well as other fun activities for kids. There are also many family-friendly restaurants in the area.

For families, Atlantic City is not always the best place to visit. Most families avoid this area for more family-friendly beaches, but if you find yourself in the area, you can check out Ripley's Believe It or Not or go on a dolphin cruise. Also popular is Steel Pier, which has rides for all ages.


Is Atlantic City or Beaver Creek Better for Couples?

Atlantic City
Beaver Creek

Beaver Creek is well known for romance. Also, Atlantic City is still popular, but not quite as popular for its romantic activities.

Couples visit Beaver Creek frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. There are romantic resorts nearby as well as great adventure sports, skiing, snowboarding, and a beautiful setting.

Atlantic City makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. It's not exactly known for its romance, but there are casinos, hotels, and a beaches that are fun to visit. You'll also find several spas and sunset cruises in the area.

Is Atlantic City or Beaver Creek Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Atlantic City
Beaver Creek

Atlantic City is a nice place to visit for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Beaver Creek is not known for backpackers.

It's common for backpackers to visit Atlantic City. There is a hostel in the area. You'll also find a younger crowd and plenty of partying.

Beaver Creek is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. There aren't many facilities that cater to backpackers.

Is Atlantic City or Beaver Creek Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Atlantic City
Beaver Creek

You'll find somewhat comparable public transit options in both Atlantic City and Beaver Creek.

You'll find some public transit in Atlantic City, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. The Jitney are shuttle buses that runs from one end of the city to the other. They pass by most of the hotels and casinos along Pacific Avenue.

While Beaver Creek offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There free transportation that's offered by Village Transportation.


Is Atlantic City or Beaver Creek a more walkable city?

Atlantic City
Beaver Creek

Beaver Creek is a world-class destination for its walkability. Also, Atlantic City is still popular, but not quite as popular for its high level of walkability.

Getting around Beaver Creek on foot is easy. It's a quaint little village that is very walkable.

Atlantic City is a very walkable city. Many of the hotels are walkable and located near the boardwalk.

For even more information, also check out Is Atlantic City Worth Visiting? and Is Beaver Creek Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Beaver Creek or Atlantic City?

How long in Atlantic City or Beaver Creek?

Both Atlantic City and Beaver Creek have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Beaver Creek than in Atlantic City. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Atlantic City, and 3-7 days is enough time in Beaver Creek.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Atlantic City than Beaver Creek 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 Atlantic City.


  • How many days in Atlantic City or Beaver Creek? Ideal Length of Stay
    Atlantic City 1-3 
    Beaver Creek 3-7

One day in Atlantic City or Beaver Creek?

In Atlantic City, many people enjoy the food and shopping that this colorful city offers. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. In one day, you should have a good grasp of this city.

Many travelers enjoy the shopping and skiing when visiting the active destination of Beaver Creek. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. Don't miss the skiing, as that's what most people do. Your budget might influence how long you stay. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

A weekend in Atlantic City or Beaver Creek?

Atlantic City is a fun place to experience. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. Lots of people come for the nightlife. So, a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Beaver Creek. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. Don't miss the skiing, as that's what most people do. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.


Five days in Atlantic City or Beaver Creek?

You'll find nightlife and food around the flashy destination of Atlantic City. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Lots of people come for the nightlife. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days.

Many travelers enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the active destination of Beaver Creek. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from. If you have five days, this is a great place to go. Five days is usually enough time to experience most activities.

A week in Atlantic City or Beaver Creek?

Atlantic City is a popular place to visit. It's also a relaxing resort destination. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Many travelers enjoy the shopping and skiing when visiting the town of Beaver Creek. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Plenty of people spend one week in the area when traveling.So, one week is just the right amount of time to spend here. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 2-Week Tours from New York City, The Best 2-Week Tours from San Francisco, The Best 2-Week Tours from Los Angeles, and The Best Family-Friendly Tours to United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Beaver Creek or Atlantic City?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Atlantic City is $154, while the average daily cost in Beaver Creek is $316. 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 Atlantic City and Beaver Creek in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Atlantic City $73
    Beaver Creek $203
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Atlantic City $146
    Beaver Creek $406
Compare Hotels in Atlantic City and Beaver Creek

Looking for a hotel in Atlantic City or Beaver Creek? 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 Atlantic City


Hotels in Beaver Creek


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: Atlantic City Hotel Prices and Beaver Creek Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Atlantic City $40
    Beaver Creek $30

Is it cheaper to fly into Atlantic City or Beaver Creek?

Prices for flights to both Beaver Creek and Atlantic City 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
    Atlantic City $50
    Beaver Creek $85

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Atlantic City $44
    Beaver Creek $53

Tours and Activities in Atlantic City

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

  • 1 Hour Private Escape Room Experience in Ocean City: $36
  • 75-Minute Ocean Parasailing Adventure Above Ocean City, MD: $75
  • Assateague Horses, Herons and Happy Hour Cruise: $40
  • Atlantic City Adventure Scavenger Hunt: $27
  • Banshees of the Boardwalk Walking Tour: $32
  • Dolphin Watching Ocean Cruise Adventure: $53
  • Morning or Afternoon Skyline Ocean Cruise: $27
  • Quiet Bay Cruise With Happy Hour Options: $27
  • Sunset Party Cruise with DJ: $33
  • The Hook at Caesars Show Ticket: $99
  • Downtown/Boardwalk Foodie Tour: $110
  • OC Bay Hopper - Assateague Island Cruise (Departs 118th): $45

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Atlantic City $39
    Beaver Creek $35

Sample the Local Flavors in Atlantic City

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Atlantic City:

  • Little Water Distillery Spirit Tasting: $15


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

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