A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Austin vs. Vail for Food, Nightlife, Music, and Families

Should you visit Austin or Vail?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Austin or Vail, 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.

Austin

Austin is a entrepreneurial, eccentric, and unconventional city. It's a big city with many activities to entertain visitors, too. This is beautiful destination to visit. Visitors also love the food, shopping, and museums.

Vail

Vail is a charming, picturesque, and scenic ski town. This is also a fantastic small town with plenty of charm and local activities. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It also has that perfectly quaint feel that is like no other place. It's also known for skiing, nightlife, and live music.

Austin and Vail: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Austin or Vail?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Vail. Although Austin and Vail are popular destinations, Vail has more sights and attractions for tourists. Vail is very popular for its skiing, resorts, hiking, shopping, christmas markets, small town charm, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere, while Austin attracts visitors for its museums, food, nightlife, music, and big city activities. Vail is more touristy than Austin and is popular for its world-class skiing, charming mountain town atmosphere, and adventurous outdoor activities. It is also well known for The Vail Ski Resort. Austin is famous for its live music scene, excellent Texas barbecue, authentic Mexican food, and vibrant student population.

How is Austin different from Vail?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Austin or Vail Better for Skiing?

Vail is a world-class destination for winter skiing. However, Austin is not a skiing destination.

The snow ski experience you'll have in Vail is among the best in the world. This ski town has produced its share of Olympians. Vail is the third largest ski resort in the US and it has 31 lifts and 195 runs. There are five different bowls that offer beautiful views.

Austin is not a skiing destination.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Austin or Vail?

Austin is a great city for its historical sights. However, Vail does not have museums and landmarks.

Austin offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. Austin has a number of great museums and sights including the Blanton Museum of Art, the Mexic-Arte Museum, and the Bob Bullock Texas State History Museum. There's also a huge supply of local art galleries. Perhaps the most notable landmark in town is the beautiful Texas Capital Building

Vail does not have museums and landmarks.

Is the Food Better in Austin or Vail? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Austin is a must-visit destination for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Vail is not as popular, but is still a nice ski town for its local cuisine and restaurants.

For foodies, Austin is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. It is credited with being the original food truck city and you'll find many diverse food truck options around town. There is also amazing Mexican food, world renowned Texas barbecue, and many modern restaurants that reflect the city's culinary influence.

There are many up and coming restaurants in the Vail area. The town has a diverse sampling of restaurants that include different ethnic options as well as taverns with comfort food. It's easy to find mountain-friendly restaurants where you can refuel during your ski vacation.

Is Austin or Vail Better for Nightlife?

Austin is a must-visit destination for nightlife and partying. Also, Vail is not as popular, but is still a nice ski town for its evening party scene.

Austin is a world class party destination. It's nightlife is centered around its thriving live music scene. Head for Sixth Street for some of the most popular bars and clubs. There are also many music festivals and outdoor concerts, particularly during the summer months. Popular bars and clubs around town include the White Horse, the Rose Room, and Antone's Nightclub.

Vail offers plenty to do in the evening. Happy Hours start early, and then the partying can go late into the night. There are bars, lounges, breweries and live music that keep the atmosphere light and offer entertainment after your long day on the slopes. Do keep in mind that many places close or dramatically reduce their hours during the off-peak fall and spring months.

Is Austin or Vail Better for Music?

Austin is a must-visit destination for its live music scene. Also, Vail is not as popular, but is still a nice ski town for its music scene.

With so many music venues, you're guaranteed a show any night of the week in Austin. Music is what gives this city its character. There are many live music venues, concerts, and music festivals to experience. Austin has influenced many music genres such as rock, blues, jazz, hip hop, punk, and country.

Music lovers will find a few good venues in Vail. You can often find live music at Shakedown Bar, Bridge Street Bar, and the Red Lion.

Is Austin or Vail Better for Resorts?

Vail is a great destination for its resorts. However, Austin is not a resort destination.

Vail is a popular resort destination that attracts visitors from everywhere. Designed as a resort town, Vail offers great accommodation. Nice resorts include Four Seasons Resort and Residences, the Ritz Carlton Club, and the Grand Hyatt.

Austin is not a resort destination.

Is Austin or Vail Better for Hiking?

Vail is a great destination for its hiking experiences. However, Austin is a city with minimal options for hiking.

You'll find a nice variety of hiking trails around Vail. During the warmer months, this resort town is surrounded by world-class hiking trails. You can enjoy the wildflowers, search for wildlife, or take in the sweeping mountain views. Popular hikes near Vail include Booth Falls, Davos Trail, and Shrine Ridge.

Many visitors include a hike while visiting Austin. Head just outside of town to explore a few great hiking spots right near town.

Is the Shopping Better in Austin or Vail?

Vail is a great destination for shopping. Also, Austin is still popular, but not quite as popular for its shopping opportunities.

Vail is an extremely popular place for shoppers. The cobblestone streets are lined with boutiques and ski shops that sell everything from evening dresses to outdoor gear. It's easy to pop into the many shops around downtown Vail and find anything you might need.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Austin. There are a number of local boutiques around town where you can enjoy shopping.

Is Austin or Vail Better for Christmas?

Vail is a world-class destination for its Christmas activities. However, Austin does not offer Christmas activities.

Vail is a world class destination for shoppers. The town is a winter wonderland during the holidays. Check out the iconic Christmas tree lighting and wander through the fairytale streets.

Austin does not offer Christmas activities.

Is Austin or Vail Better for Christmas Markets?

Vail is a great destination for its Christmas markets. However, Austin does not offer Christmas markets.

Vail offers plenty of Christmas markets. The town's Christmas Market is picturesque, and the perfect place to pick up some unique gifts.

Austin does not offer Christmas markets.

Is Austin or Vail Better for Families?

Vail is a world-class destination for its family-friendly activities. Also, Austin is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

Vail is an amazing family-friendly ski town to visit. With its world class skiing, rock climbing, ice skating, and ice cream, kids love this ski resort. The resort town has two terrain parks - Golden Peak and Avanti. Avanti is perfect for kids. It has small jumps, wide rails, and kid-friendly amenities. Golden Peak is designed for more advanced athletes. Vail also has nice beginner slopes that are great for kids.

Austin offers lots of family activities. The city is a popular destination for young travelers, but there are also some family-friendly activities like Barton Springs, Zilker Park, and several natural swimming holes. There's a number of nice parks around town that are great for kids of all ages.

Is Austin or Vail Better for Couples?

Vail is a world-class destination for romance. Also, Austin is still popular, but not quite as popular for its romantic activities.

Vail has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. Couples who enjoy skiing and outdoor adventure will appreciate everything that this ski town has to offer. There are nice restaurants, beautiful gardens, and plenty of romantic activities to choose from.

Austin makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Young couples will enjoy the city for its lively nightlife, fun music scene, and youthful vibe. There are also many outdoor areas where you can hike or explore. The restaurant scene is among the best as well.

Is Austin or Vail Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Austin is a great city for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Vail is not as popular, but is still a nice ski town for backpackers.

Many backpackers visit Austin. Although the city is relatively small, it does see a disproportionate number of backpackers. There are a couple of hostels in town as well.

Vail is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. This ski town isn't completely closed off to budget travelers as there are a couple of hostels around town.

Is Austin or Vail Better for Students?

Austin is a great city for its student-friendly activities. However, Vail is not popular with students.

Austin is a very popular city for students and younger travelers. The city has a huge university, the University of Texas at Austin, and it is a young city with tons for international students. There is a great nightlife scene and plenty for students to see and do.

Vail is not popular with students.

Is Austin or Vail Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Vail is a nice place to visit for its public transit. However, Austin is a city with minimal options for times when you don't have a car.

You'll find some public transit in Vail, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There is a free bus service through the area.

Public transit is mostly limited in Austin. There are city buses and a very limited lightrail system, but you really need a car to explore the city.

Is Austin or Vail a more walkable city?

Vail is a world-class destination for its walkability. However, Austin is a city with minimal options for its high level of walkability.

Getting around Vail on foot is easy. The main downtown is pedestrian-only and perfect for popping in shops and restaurants.

Austin is generally not a very walkable city. The city, like most southern cities, isn't very walkable and it's important to have a car to get around. There are some downtown areas that are pedestrian-friendly.

For even more information, also check out Is Austin Worth Visiting? and Is Vail Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Vail or Austin?

How long in Austin or Vail?

Both Austin and Vail have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Vail than in Austin. Usually, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Austin, and 3-7 days is enough time in Vail.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Austin than Vail 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 Austin.

One day in Austin or Vail?

Visitors enjoy the nightlife and live music when visiting the destination of Austin. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

Vail might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. Hikers are also drawn to this area. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Austin or Vail?

Austin is a fun place to experience. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. A weekend is often enough time to do most activities. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Vail is a great place to explore. Don't miss the skiing, as that's what most people do. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Five days in Austin or Vail?

You'll find food and shopping around the entrepreneurial destination of Austin. This city offers something for everyone. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Vail. Don't miss the skiing, as that's what most people do. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. With all of its activities, you can easily fill five days here. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A week in Austin or Vail?

The unconventional city of Austin offers shopping and museums. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. 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.

Vail is a small town with plenty to do. This ski town offers a variety of activities to choose from. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. If you have one week, this is a great place to go. This would be the perfect place to spend one week, as it has just the right amount of activities.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Walking Tours in United States of America, The Best Tours Under $1000 in United States of America, The Best Luxury Tours to United States of America, and The Best Tours for Seniors to United States of America.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Austin or Vail?

Austin has a larger population, and is about 150 times larger than the population of Vail. When comparing the sizes of Austin and Vail, 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.