A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Atlantic City vs. Vernon for Nightlife, Attractions, Food, and Families

Should you visit Atlantic City or Vernon?

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 Vernon. 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 glitzy, flashy, and party-oriented city. Other popular activities here include nightlife, food, and beaches. See Atlantic City travel costs.

Vernon

Vernon is a peaceful, relaxing, and quiet town. It's also known for shopping, museums, and food. See Vernon travel costs.

Atlantic City and Vernon: Pros and Cons

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


Is there more to do in Atlantic City or Vernon?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Atlantic City than Vernon, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Atlantic City is better known for its nightlife, resorts, and beaches, while Vernon is more popular for its museums and attractions and hiking. Atlantic City is more touristy than Vernon and is known for its casinos, gambling culture, nightlife scene, and wild personality Also, Atlantic City is famous for Steel Pier and the Boardwalk. Vernon is well known for its surrounding valley with lakes and hiking trails.

How is Atlantic City different from Vernon?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Atlantic City
Vernon

Vernon is a good destination for its museums and landmarks. However, Atlantic City is not particularly known for its historical sights.

Vernon is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. There are local galleries and museums that offer information on the region's history and culture. You can visit the Canadian Wildlife Museum, the Caetani Center, the Museum and Archives of Vernon, the Paddlewheel Park Stationhouse Museum, and the Vernon Public Art Gallery.

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.


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

Atlantic City
Vernon

Foodies will find both Atlantic City and Vernon both to be notable destinations.

Atlantic City offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. 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.

Vernon has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. The region is known for its vineyards and wineries and many of the local restaurants have been around for generations. The food is often locally produced and prepared with traditional recipes.

Is Atlantic City or Vernon Better for Nightlife?

Atlantic City
Vernon

Atlantic City is terrific for its evening party scene. However, Vernon is not a good town for nightlife.

Atlantic City is a must-see party destination. 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.

Those looking for nightlife will find a few places to hang out in Vernon. The town gets very quiet in the evenings, so you won't find much of a nightlife scene.

Is Atlantic City or Vernon Better for Resorts?

Atlantic City
Vernon

Atlantic City is a well-known place for its resorts. However, Vernon is not a resort destination.

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.

Vernon is not a resort destination.


Is Atlantic City or Vernon Better for Beaches?

Atlantic City
Vernon

Atlantic City is a nice place to visit for the beach. However, Vernon 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.

Vernon is not a beach destination.

Is Atlantic City or Vernon Better for Hiking?

Atlantic City
Vernon

Vernon 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 Vernon. The surrounding valley has more than 300 kilometers of hiking trails. They run along pristine lakes, pass by granite rock formations, and take you to impressive viewpoints.

Atlantic City is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Atlantic City or Vernon?

Atlantic City
Vernon

Shopping is a popular activity in both Vernon 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 Vernon. There are a number of boutique shops that are fun to explore in the downtown area.


Is Atlantic City or Vernon Better for Families?

Atlantic City
Vernon

Vernon is a good destination for its family-friendly activities. However, Atlantic City is not particularly known for its kid-friendly activities.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Vernon. There are biking and hiking trails as well as other outdoor activities. You can also visit the Allan Brooks Nature Center or the Rock Garden Climbing Center.

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 Vernon Better for Couples?

Atlantic City
Vernon

Atlantic City and Vernon both notable destinations for a couple.

Atlantic City is a nice destination for couples. 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.

Vernon makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. It offers a peaceful getaway for couples. You can visit the Okanagan wineries or enjoy one of the many hiking trails. There are also nice restaurants to try.

Is Atlantic City or Vernon Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Atlantic City
Vernon

Atlantic City is a nice place to visit for backpackers. However, Vernon is not a good town for backpackers and budget travelers.

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.

Vernon is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. There is a hostel in town, but this isn't a popular destination for backpackers.


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

Atlantic City
Vernon

Atlantic City is a nice place to visit for its public transit. However, Vernon is not a good town for times when you don't have a car.

Atlantic City has a few public transit options. 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.

Public transit is mostly limited in Vernon. There is a bus system, but it's better not to rely on it.

Is Atlantic City or Vernon a more walkable city?

Atlantic City
Vernon

Atlantic City is a well-known place for its ease of walking around. However, Vernon is not a good town for its walkability.

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

Vernon is generally not a very walkable city. You'll really want to have a car to make the most of your time here.

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

Should I spend more time in Vernon or Atlantic City?

How long in Atlantic City or Vernon?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Atlantic City and Vernon. In our opinion, Atlantic City has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Atlantic City than Vernon. However, 1-3 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Atlantic City than Vernon 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 Vernon? Ideal Length of Stay
    Atlantic City 1-3 
    Vernon 1-3

One day in Atlantic City or Vernon?

Many travelers enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the destination of Atlantic City. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. One day is often enough time to do most activities.

Many travelers enjoy the museums and food when visiting the relaxing destination of Vernon. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. Your budget might influence how long you stay. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then one day is just the right amount of time to spend here.


A weekend in Atlantic City or Vernon?

Atlantic City is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. Don't miss the nightlife, as that's what most people do. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Vernon. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. A weekend is usually enough time to experience most activities.

Five days in Atlantic City or Vernon?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Atlantic City. Don't miss the nightlife, as that's what most people do. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. 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.

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the relaxing destination of Vernon. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from. Five days 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.

A week in Atlantic City or Vernon?

Travelers enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the colorful destination of Atlantic City. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

You'll find museums and food around the town of Vernon. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Wildlife Tours to United States of America, The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in United States of America, The Best Coach Bus Tours in Canada, and The Best Adventure Tours to Canada.


Which place is cheaper, Vernon or Atlantic City?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations. These travel costs come from the actual spending of real travelers.

  • Atlantic City Prices
    USA Prices
    Vernon Prices
    Canada Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Atlantic City $190
    Vernon $49

The average daily cost (per person) in Atlantic City is $190, while the average daily cost in Vernon is $49. 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 Vernon in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Atlantic City $73
    Vernon $4.81
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Atlantic City $146
    Vernon $9.62
Compare Hotels in Atlantic City and Vernon

Looking for a hotel in Atlantic City or Vernon? 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 Vernon


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 Vernon Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Atlantic City $40
    Vernon -

Is it cheaper to fly into Atlantic City or Vernon?

Prices for flights to both Vernon 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 $86
    Vernon $43

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Atlantic City $44
    Vernon -

Tours and Activities in Atlantic City

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

  • Atlantic City Adventure Scavenger Hunt: $29
  • Aces to Ashes: Apparitions of Atlantic City Boardwalk Ghost Tour: $31
  • EARLY BIRD SPECIAL: Speed Boat & Dolphin Cruise in Ocean City, MD: $35
  • OC Bay Hopper - Sunset Cruise: $35
  • OC Bay Hopper - Assateague Island Cruise: $35
  • 1 Hour Private Escape Room Experience in Ocean City: $36
  • 1-Hour Sea Rocket Sunset & OC Harbor Cruise in Ocean City, MD: $38
  • 45-Minute Sea Rocket Speed Boat & Dolphin Cruise in Ocean City MD: $40
  • OC Bay Hopper Sunset Cruise Departs Downtown OC: $40
  • Assateague Horses, Herons and Happy Hour Cruise: $40
  • Ocean City Bay Hopper - Greene Turtle Lunch Cruise: $45
  • OC Bay Hopper - Happy Hour Cruise: $45

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Atlantic City $39
    Vernon $13


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

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 Vernon Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Atlantic City or Vernon?

Vernon has a larger population, and is about 17% larger than the population of Atlantic City. When comparing the sizes of Atlantic City and Vernon, 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.


When is the best time to visit Atlantic City or Vernon?

Both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. And since both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Atlantic City or Vernon in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Atlantic City and Vernon. Many visitors come to Atlantic City in the summer for the beaches and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, most visitors come to Vernon for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In July, Atlantic City is generally around the same temperature as Vernon. Daily temperatures in Atlantic City average around 75°F (24°C), and Vernon fluctuates around 23°C (73°F).

Atlantic City gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In July, Atlantic City usually receives more rain than Vernon. Atlantic City gets 4.4 inches (112 mm) of rain, while Vernon receives 28 mm (1.1 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Atlantic City 75°F (24°C) 
    Vernon 23°C (73°F)

Should I visit Atlantic City or Vernon in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Atlantic City as well as Vernon. Most visitors come to Atlantic City for the shopping scene during these months. Additionally, the autumn months attract visitors to Vernon because of the hiking trails and the shopping scene.

Atlantic City is a little warmer than Vernon in the autumn. The daily temperature in Atlantic City averages around 56°F (13°C) in October, and Vernon fluctuates around 11°C (51°F).

Atlantic City usually gets more rain in October than Vernon. Atlantic City gets 2.6 inches (67 mm) of rain, while Vernon receives 14 mm (0.6 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Atlantic City 56°F (13°C) 
    Vernon 11°C (51°F)

Should I visit Atlantic City or Vernon in the Winter?

Both Vernon and Atlantic City are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The winter months attract visitors to Atlantic City because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Vernon this time of year.

It's quite cold in Vernon in the winter. The weather in Atlantic City can be very cold. In the winter, Atlantic City is much warmer than Vernon. Typically, the winter temperatures in Atlantic City in January average around 31°F (-0°C), and Vernon averages at about -3°C (27°F).

In January, Atlantic City usually receives more rain than Vernon. Atlantic City gets 3.4 inches (87 mm) of rain, while Vernon receives 26 mm (1 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Atlantic City 31°F (-0°C) 
    Vernon -3°C (27°F)

Should I visit Atlantic City or Vernon in the Spring?

Both Vernon and Atlantic City during the spring are popular places to visit. The beaches are the main draw to Atlantic City this time of year.

In April, Atlantic City is generally cooler than Vernon. Daily temperatures in Atlantic City average around 51°F (10°C), and Vernon fluctuates around 12°C (53°F).

Atlantic City usually gets more rain in April than Vernon. Atlantic City gets 3.2 inches (82 mm) of rain, while Vernon receives 15 mm (0.6 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Atlantic City 51°F (10°C) 
    Vernon 12°C (53°F)

Typical Weather for Vernon and Atlantic City

Atlantic City Vernon
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 31°F (-0°C) 3.4 inches (87 mm) -3°C (27°F) 26 mm (1 in)
Feb 33°F (1°C) 2.5 inches (64 mm) 2°C (35°F) 14 mm (0.6 in)
Mar 42°F (6°C) 4.6 inches (116 mm) 7°C (44°F) 10 mm (0.4 in)
Apr 51°F (10°C) 3.2 inches (82 mm) 12°C (53°F) 15 mm (0.6 in)
May 61°F (16°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm) 16°C (61°F) 22 mm (0.9 in)
Jun 70°F (21°C) 2 inches (50 mm) 21°C (69°F) 29 mm (1.1 in)
Jul 75°F (24°C) 4.4 inches (112 mm) 23°C (73°F) 28 mm (1.1 in)
Aug 74°F (23°C) 4.6 inches (116 mm) 23°C (73°F) 30 mm (1.2 in)
Sep 67°F (19°C) 3.4 inches (87 mm) 17°C (63°F) 28 mm (1.1 in)
Oct 56°F (13°C) 2.6 inches (67 mm) 11°C (51°F) 14 mm (0.6 in)
Nov 46°F (8°C) 2.8 inches (71 mm) 4°C (39°F) 22 mm (0.9 in)
Dec 36°F (2°C) 3 inches (76 mm) -1°C (30°F) 33 mm (1.3 in)