A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Detroit vs. Beaver Creek for Families, Food, Nightlife, and Couples

Should you visit Detroit or Beaver Creek?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Detroit or Beaver Creek, 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.

Detroit

Detroit is a under-rated, hardworking, and overlooked city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. Other reasons to visit include museums, nightlife, and live music.

Beaver Creek

Beaver Creek is a active, adventurous, and charming town. Visitors also love the food, hiking, and shopping.

Detroit and Beaver Creek: Pros and Cons

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


Is there more to do in Detroit or Beaver Creek?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Detroit. Although Detroit and Beaver Creek are popular destinations, Detroit has more sights and attractions for tourists. Detroit is very popular for its museums, nightlife, music, and big city activities, while Beaver Creek attracts visitors for its skiing, theatre productions, food, resorts, and hiking. Beaver Creek is more touristy than Detroit and is known for its skiing and charming atmosphere Detroit is famous for its Motown music, blue collar atmosphere, and influential auto industry. It is also well known for the Henry Ford Experience.

How is Detroit different from Beaver Creek?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Detroit or Beaver Creek Better for Skiing?

Detroit
Beaver Creek

Beaver Creek is an unbeatable place for skiing and snowboarding. However, Detroit is not a skiing destination.

The snow ski experience you'll have in Beaver Creek is among the best in 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.

Detroit is not a skiing destination.


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

Detroit
Beaver Creek

Detroit is a nice place to visit for its historical sights. However, Beaver Creek does not have museums and landmarks.

Detroit is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. Popular museums around town include the Detroit Institute of Arts, the Detroit Historical Museum, and the Michigan Science Center.

Beaver Creek does not have museums and landmarks.

Is Detroit or Beaver Creek Better for Theater?

Detroit
Beaver Creek

Beaver Creek is not a good area for its theatre productions. However, Detroit is not a theatre destination.

While not known for its theater, you might be able to find something in Beaver Creek while you're in town. There are a couple of art galleries around town.

Detroit is not a theatre destination.

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

Detroit
Beaver Creek

Beaver Creek is a very popular place for its restaurants. Also, Detroit is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

Beaver Creek has a huge number of terrific restaurants. 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.

There are many up and coming restaurants in the Detroit area. There's a local flavor to the food with a number of classic dishes that are popular like square pizza, Coney dogs, and corned beef egg rolls.


Is Detroit or Beaver Creek Better for Nightlife?

Detroit
Beaver Creek

Detroit is a great city for nightlife. However, Beaver Creek is not known for nightlife and partying.

The nightlife in Detroit has something for everybody. It's long history in music still influences the nightlife scene. You'll find bars, clubs, and other activities around town. Greektown and Midtown are both popular neighborhoods during the evening.

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 Detroit or Beaver Creek Better for Music?

Detroit
Beaver Creek

Detroit is a world-class destination for live music. However, Beaver Creek is not a live music destination.

Detroit is known as a music capital around the world. Few cities have such an influential music industry. It's home to Motown and is well known for its soul music, jazz, blues, and rap.

Beaver Creek is not a live music destination.

Is Detroit or Beaver Creek Better for Resorts?

Detroit
Beaver Creek

Beaver Creek is a nice place to visit for its luxury resorts. However, Detroit is not a resort destination.

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.

Detroit is not a resort destination.


Is Detroit or Beaver Creek Better for Hiking?

Detroit
Beaver Creek

Beaver Creek is a very popular place for its hiking trails. However, Detroit is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors explore the nearby hiking trails while visiting 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.

Detroit is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Detroit or Beaver Creek?

Detroit
Beaver Creek

Shoppers can find a variety of nice stores in both Detroit and Beaver Creek.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Detroit. There are several shopping streets like Woodward Avenue. There are also outlet malls, shopping centers, and Eastern Market.

Many visitors go to Beaver Creek to go shopping. The village has pedestrian streets that are lined with fashion boutiques, jewelry stores, sporting equipment stores, and art galleries.

Is Detroit or Beaver Creek Better for Families?

Detroit
Beaver Creek

Beaver Creek is an unbeatable place for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Detroit is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

Beaver Creek is an amazing family-friendly town to visit. 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.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Detroit. Head to the Detroit Zoo or check out one of the amusement parks in the area. Kids will enjoy a visit to Legoland and there's also the Sea Life Michigan Aquarium. You could also spend some time visiting the unique museums in the area.


Is Detroit or Beaver Creek Better for Couples?

Detroit
Beaver Creek

Beaver Creek is a very popular place for its romantic activities. However, Detroit is lacking in good options for couples.

Beaver Creek makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. There are romantic resorts nearby as well as great adventure sports, skiing, snowboarding, and a beautiful setting.

Detroit is not always the best place to visit for a couple. It's not a city that usually brings to mind romance, but if you find yourself here for a couple of days, there's a RiverWalk area and some interesting local neighborhoods.

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

Detroit
Beaver Creek

Beaver Creek is a nice place to visit for times when you don't have a car. However, Detroit is lacking in good options for its public transit.

Beaver Creek has some public transit options. There free transportation that's offered by Village Transportation.

Public transit is generally limited in Detroit. There's a streetcar and bus system, but the car is still king in Motor City.

Is Detroit or Beaver Creek a more walkable city?

Detroit
Beaver Creek

Beaver Creek is an unbeatable place for its high level of walkability. Also, Detroit is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its ease of walking around.

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

Detroit is a somewhat walkable city. There are parts of downtown Detroit that are walkable, but most people need a car to get around.


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

Should I spend more time in Beaver Creek or Detroit?

How long in Detroit or Beaver Creek?

Both Detroit 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 Detroit. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Detroit, and 3-7 days is enough time in Beaver Creek.

Families should spend more time in Beaver Creek than Detroit. 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 Detroit. 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 Beaver Creek than Detroit 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 Beaver Creek.


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

One day in Detroit or Beaver Creek?

In Detroit, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this overlooked city offers. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. In one day, you should have a good grasp of this city.

In Beaver Creek, you'll find shopping and skiing. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. One reason most visitors come is for the skiing. This town offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

A weekend in Detroit or Beaver Creek?

Detroit is a fun place to experience. 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 live music. So, a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

In Beaver Creek, you'll find skiing and food. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One reason most visitors come is for the skiing. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

Five days in Detroit or Beaver Creek?

You'll find nightlife and live music around the overlooked destination of Detroit. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Lots of people come for the live music. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days.

Beaver Creek is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Beaver Creek has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.


A week in Detroit or Beaver Creek?

Detroit is a popular place to visit. 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Beaver Creek. In Beaver Creek, you'll find shopping and skiing. One reason most visitors come is for the skiing. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one week here.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in United States of America, The Best 2-Week Tours in United States of America, The Best 3-Week Tours in United States of America, and The Best Bicycle Tours in United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Beaver Creek or Detroit?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Detroit is $133, 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 Detroit and Beaver Creek in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Detroit $64
    Beaver Creek $203
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Detroit $128
    Beaver Creek $406
Compare Hotels in Detroit and Beaver Creek

Looking for a hotel in Detroit 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 Detroit


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: Detroit Hotel Prices and Beaver Creek Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Detroit $37
    Beaver Creek $30

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Detroit

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

  • Detroit Airport (DTW) to Detroit City - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $189
  • Private Transfer from Detroit City to Detroit (DTW) Airport: $142
  • Private Transfer from Detroit (DTW) Airport to Detroit City: $142
  • Departure Private Transfer: Detroit to Detroit Airport DTW in Luxury SUV: $131
  • Departure Private Transfer: Detroit to Detroit Airport DTW in Business Car: $99
  • Detroit City to Detroit Airport (DTW) - Departure Private Transfer: $94
  • Detroit Airport (DTW) to Detroit City - Arrival Private Transfer: $94
  • Private Arrival Transfer - from Detroit Airport (DTW) by SUV: $90
  • Private Departure Transfer - to Detroit Airport (DTW) by SUV: $90
  • Private Departure Transfer to Detroit Airport DTW: $61

Is it cheaper to fly into Detroit or Beaver Creek?

Prices for flights to both Beaver Creek and Detroit 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
    Detroit $44
    Beaver Creek $85

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Detroit

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

  • Fresh Mediterranean Inspired Cooking Class in a Unique Detroit Home: $104

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Detroit $21
    Beaver Creek $53

Tours and Activities in Detroit

For Detroit, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • Ann Arbor Scavenger Hunt: Ann Arbor Adventure: $12
  • Detroit Tigers Baseball Game Ticket at Comerica Park: $11
  • Architectural Beauty and Hidden Gems Walking Tour: $115
  • Ghosts and Spirits Haunted Walking Tour: $26
  • Scavenger Hunt Adventure Self-Guided City Game: $10
  • Segway Tour Strait to the Point: $99
  • Spirit and History Self Guided Audio Tour: $6.50
  • Experience the season with a scavenger hunt in Ann Arbor with Holly Jolly Hunt: $20
  • LEGOLAND® Discovery Center Michigan Admission Ticket: $26
  • Motor City Ghosts Tour: $33
  • Murder Mystery Detective Experience Ann Arbor, MI: $15
  • SEA LIFE Michigan Aquarium Admission Ticket: $25

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Detroit $20
    Beaver Creek $35


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Detroit and Beaver Creek, we can see that Beaver Creek is more expensive. And not only is Detroit much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Detroit would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Detroit 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 Detroit.

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