A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Destin vs. Boulder for Families, Food, and Couples

Should you visit Destin or Boulder?

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

Which city is more affordable and which is best for your travel style? If you're trying to figure out where to go next, comparing the travel costs between Destin and Boulder can help you decide which place is right for you.

Destin

Destin is a relaxing, peaceful, and family-friendly beach town. It's a beautiful place to visit, too. Visitors also love the beaches, shopping, and food.

Boulder

Boulder is a biker-friendly, outdoorsy, and nature-filled city. It's a gorgeous place to visit. It's also known for hiking, shopping, and nightlife.

Destin and Boulder: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Destin or Boulder?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Boulder. Although Destin and Boulder are popular destinations, Boulder has more sights and attractions for tourists. Boulder is very popular for its skiing, museums, nightlife, music, and hiking, while Destin attracts visitors for its resorts and beaches. Destin is more touristy than Boulder and is popular for its powdery sand and turquoise water, its kid-friendly environment, and its local waterfront seafood restaurants. Boulder is famous for its outdoor sports, biker-friendly downtown, vibrant downtown, and many local breweries. It is also well known for The Flatirons.

How is Destin different from Boulder?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Destin or Boulder Better for Skiing?

Boulder is a moderate city for snow skiing. However, Destin is not a skiing destination.

Locals like to visit Boulder to take advantage of their winter sports. The town offers access within an hour or two to several great ski resorts including Eldora Mountain, Vail, and Breckenridge.

Destin is not a skiing destination.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Destin or Boulder?

Boulder is a moderate city for its sights and museums. However, Destin does not have museums and landmarks.

Boulder offers a handful of options for museums and historical sights. Most people visit Boulder for the outdoor activities more than the museums and sights. If have the time you can wander around the University of Colorado Boulder campus, visit the Museum of Boulder, or see the Leanin' Tree Museum of Western Art.

Destin does not have museums and landmarks.

Is the Food Better in Destin or Boulder? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Local dishes at restaurants are fun to try in both Destin and Boulder.

Destin offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. The area has great seafood including crab chowder, seafood gumbo, and fried fish. You can find wonderful local restaurants that have waterfront views and menus that feature freshly caught seafood. Many restaurants also have kid-friendly menus. During peak season, reservations are recommended.

Boulder has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. This is an often overlooked foodie town, with great farmer's markets and restaurants to try. There are many casual places to eat as well as vegetarian and vegan friendly options everywhere.

Is Destin or Boulder Better for Nightlife?

Boulder is very good for nightlife. However, Destin is a mediocre beach town for nightlife and partying.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Boulder. The town has breweries, craft beer, and plenty to do in the evening. Live music is popular and many venues are smaller with a more personal atmosphere. Check out The Bitter Bar or License No. 1 for a local vibe.

Destin doesn't offer many options. The region is more popular as a family-friendly beach destination than it is for it's nightlife. Head to the Harbor area for the most lively nightlife.

Is Destin or Boulder Better for Music?

Boulder is very good for live music. However, Destin is not a live music destination.

Music lovers will find a few good venues in Boulder. During the summer months there are often outdoor concerts. Head to Pearl Street for open air stages or see a concert at Boulder Theater.

Destin is not a live music destination.

Is Destin or Boulder Better for Resorts?

Destin is a great beach town for its luxury resorts. However, Boulder is not a resort destination.

There are plenty of resorts in Destin to choose from. Popular options include the Sandestin Golf & Beach Resort, as well as Hilton Sandestin Beach, Golf Resort & Spa. Most of the accommodation in the area is in the form of condos that include a kitchen and separate bedrooms. Most of these complexes also have pools, hot tubs, and even kids clubs.

Boulder is not a resort destination.

Is Destin or Boulder Better for Beaches?

Destin is a great beach town for the beache. However, Boulder is not a beach destination.

Many people visit Destin for it's beautiful beaches. This area is famous for its powdery white sand, beautiful blue waters, and calm waves. The beaches are large enough that they never get incredibly crowded, but you will find the largest crowds during the summer months. These beaches are particularly popular with families and seniors.

Boulder is not a beach destination.

Is Destin or Boulder Better for Hiking?

Boulder is notable for the nearby hiking options. However, Destin is not a hiking destination.

Boulder is a popular spot for hiking. There are many accessible hikes in the area that take you through the mountains, by wildflowers, or up mountain peaks. Popular hikes that are nearby include the Bear Peak Summit Hike, the trails in Eldorado Canyon State Park, and Boulder Falls.

Destin is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Destin or Boulder?

Both Destin and Boulder are nice shopping destinations.

Destin is a great destination for shopping. In the shopping centers around town you'll find a number of unique boutique shops that are fun to explore. They have boutique-style beach clothes, local art, and any beach supplies that you may have forgotten.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Boulder. The downtown area has many local retailers where you can shop for clothing, art, or home goods. You can also pick up outdoor gear, camping equipment, and any other items you may need in town. Make sure you wander down the pedestrian-friendly Pearl Street Mall.

Is Destin or Boulder Better for Families?

Destin is a great beach town for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Boulder is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its family-friendly activities.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Destin is very family-friendly. The area has beautiful sandy beaches, calm waters, and plenty of activities for kids like Big Kahuna's Water Park. This is one of the more kid-friendly areas in Florida and many families return year after year with their kids. There are also many condos available for rent and kids can have their own room, kitchens are available for meal preparation, and there are washers and dryers to clean clothes. Many of these condo complexes also have kid-friendly pools

Boulder is a family-friendly place to visit. The city has parks, playgrounds, a planetarium, and climbing gyms that are fun for kids of all ages. There are plenty places to get outdoors with hiking, kayaking, and other outdoor recreational activities. Eldorado Canyon State Park is a great place to explore as well.

Is Destin or Boulder Better for Couples?

Both Destin and Boulder are nice destinations to visit as a couple.

Destin is a nice destination for couples. For a relaxing beach vacation, this is a nice option for couples. A lot of the accommodation is in the form of condos, so it may not have the romantic resort vibe you're going for though. There are many great seafood restaurants and quiet beaches that have beautiful sunsets.

Boulder makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. This is a great city for couples who love outdoor adventures, hiking, rock climbing, and cycling. You can wander down Pearl Street or go for a bike ride. There are also great restaurants where you can enjoy a meal and then head to Panorama Point to take in the view.

Is Destin or Boulder Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Boulder is very good for backpackers. However, Destin is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

Boulder is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. There are a number of backcountry areas in the region that are perfect for backpackers. The city also has a young population and several affordable places to stay.

Destin is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

Is Destin or Boulder Better for Students?

Boulder is notable for students. However, Destin is a mediocre beach town for its student-friendly activities.

Boulder is very popular with students. With the University of Colorado, Boulder in town, this city is a popular spot for students. It's an outdoor enthusiast's perfect base with many outdoor recreational activities in the area.

Destin is a decent spot for students. It is more a family-friendly destination than a spring break destination. If you're looking for a place to cut loose and blow off some steam, then there are better options in Florida.

Is Destin or Boulder Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Boulder is a moderate city for its public transit. However, Destin is a mediocre beach town for times when you don't have a car.

Public transit is generally limited in Boulder. There are buses that run around town, but you really need a car to fully experience everything that the city has to offer.

Public transit is quite limited in Destin. There is almost no public transit so a car is essential. Some condo complexes do over golf carts to get around the grounds.

Is Destin or Boulder a more walkable city?

Boulder is very good for its walkability. However, Destin is a mediocre beach town for its high level of walkability.

Boulder is somewhat walkable. The city has some nice walkable areas and it is very bike-friendly.

Destin is not a very walkable beach town. The area is very spread out and not walkable so you'll need a car to access restaurants and most forms of entertainment.

For even more information, also check out Is Destin Worth Visiting? and Is Boulder Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Boulder or Destin?

How long in Destin or Boulder?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Destin and Boulder. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Destin than in Boulder. Usually, 5-7 days is a good amount of time for Destin, and 2-3 days is enough time in Boulder.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Boulder than Destin 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 Boulder.

One day in Destin or Boulder?

In Destin, you'll find food and shopping. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. This beach town offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

Many travelers enjoy the shopping and nightlife when visiting the destination of Boulder. 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 Destin or Boulder?

In Destin, you'll find shopping and food. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Most people come for the beaches. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

Boulder 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.

Five days in Destin or Boulder?

Destin 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 Destin has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Boulder. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. 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.

A week in Destin or Boulder?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Destin. In Destin, you'll find shopping and food. It's also a relaxing resort destination. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one week here.

Travelers enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the biker-friendly destination of Boulder. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

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 comparing the travel costs between Destin and Boulder, we can see that Destin is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Since both cities are in North America, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

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

Which is Bigger, Destin or Boulder?

Boulder has a larger population, and is about 8 times larger than the population of Destin. When comparing the sizes of Destin and Boulder, 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.