A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Key West vs. Vail for Families, Couples, Nightlife, and Resorts

Should you visit Key West or Vail?

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

Should I visit Key West or Vail? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

Key West

Key West is a quaint, laid-back, and quirky town. With fun activities and sights, this is a small town worth visiting. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Since it has a quaint atmosphere, you'll want to spend time soaking it all in. Visitors also love the beaches, nightlife, and food.

Vail

Vail is a upscale, resort-filled, and charming ski town. It also offers plenty of small town charm and also has plenty of sights and activities. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. It also has a unique and quaint vibe that attracts lots of visitors. And you can't forget about the hiking, shopping, and skiing.

Key West and Vail: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Key West or Vail?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Vail than Key West, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Vail is better known for its skiing, music, hiking, shopping, christmas markets, small town charm, and quaint atmosphere, while Key West is more popular for its scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and historical sights. Key West is well known for its festive nightlife, quirky town center, colorful personality, adrenaline-filled watersports, stunning beaches, turquoise water, and location at the southernmost point of the continental U.S. Vail is well known for its world-class skiing, charming mountain town atmosphere, and adventurous outdoor activities. Also, Vail is famous for The Vail Ski Resort.

How is Key West different from Vail?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Key West or Vail Better for Skiing?

Vail is renowned for snow skiing. However, Key West is not a skiing destination.

If you're an avid snow skiier, Vail should be on your list. 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.

Key West is not a skiing destination.

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

There are opportunities to sample the local cuisine at notable restaurants in both Key West and Vail.

Visitors will find a budding food and restaurant scene in Key West. Head to town for local restaurants with quirky atmospheres. There are many local dishes to sample, be the town is most known for its stone crabs, conch fritters, and Mahi Mahi sandwiches. You'll also find cold drinks and waterfront dining areas.

Vail is becoming an appealing option for foodies. 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 Key West or Vail Better for Nightlife?

Evening events are high quality in both Key West and Vail.

Key West has plenty to do after the sun goes down. This area has some of the most lively nightlife in the Florida Keys. There are quirky bars and fun hangouts where you can spend the evening. The party starts at Mallory Square around sunset and many bars stay open well into the early hours. You can also enjoy sunset cruises or pass your time at one of the many tiki bars.

Vail has a lively atmosphere and nightlife is popular here. 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 Key West or Vail Better for Music?

Vail is a popular place for its live music scene. However, Key West is not a live music destination.

The music scene in Vail is active and vibrant. You can often find live music at Shakedown Bar, Bridge Street Bar, and the Red Lion.

Key West is not a live music destination.

Is Key West or Vail Better for Resorts?

Key West and Vail offer a relatively similar set of high quality luxury resort options.

Key West is known as a popular and fun resort destination. There are a number of high end resorts around the island, many with recognizable names such as the Hyatt and Hilton. Prices can be high, but these resorts often come with reliable luxury.

Vacationers can choose from a number of terrific resorts in Vail. 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.

Is Key West or Vail Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Key West is a popular place for its diving and snorkeling. However, Vail is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Key West has a few good snorkeling spots. There are a number of dive shops and snorkeling excursions that leave from Key West. Like many tourist areas these days, the coral shows its damage from the crowds, but you'll likely see some barracuda or a Grouper.

Vail is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Key West or Vail Better for Beaches?

Key West is a great town for the beache. However, Vail is not a beach destination.

Key West is considered a top beach destination. One of the best beaches in the area is Fort Zachary Taylor Historic State Park. The beach has soft sand and stunning turquoise water. As is typical in the Keys, the water stays shallow for great distances.

Vail is not a beach destination.

Is Key West or Vail Better for its Old Town?

Key West is a great town for its old town. However, Vail does not have a historic old town.

Many visitors explore the old town while visiting Key West. The town has the most charming Old Town areas in the Florida Keys. Head to Mallory Square for the sunset street performers and explore the historic streets around Duval Street.

Vail does not have a historic old town.

Is Key West or Vail Better for Hiking?

Vail is notable for the nearby hiking options. However, Key West is not a hiking destination.

Vail is a popular spot for hiking. 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.

Key West is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Key West or Vail?

Vail is notable for its shopping opportunities. However, Key West is a mediocre town for its shopping areas.

Vail is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. 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.

Key West has some good spots for those that want to go shopping. While it definitely has its share of gimmicky souvenir shops and t-shirt stores, there are still a number of art galleries and local shops around Key West where you can enjoy shopping.

Is Key West or Vail Better for Christmas?

Vail is renowned for its Christmas activities. However, Key West does not offer Christmas activities.

Vail is a fantastic destination at Christmas. The town is a winter wonderland during the holidays. Check out the iconic Christmas tree lighting and wander through the fairytale streets.

Key West does not offer Christmas activities.

Is Key West or Vail Better for Christmas Markets?

Vail is notable for its Christmas markets. However, Key West does not offer Christmas markets.

Vail has a lively atmosphere around its Christmas markets. The town's Christmas Market is picturesque, and the perfect place to pick up some unique gifts.

Key West does not offer Christmas markets.

Is Key West or Vail Better for Families?

Vail is renowned for its family-friendly activities. Also, Key West is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

As it has a large number of activities for kids, Vail is a very family-friendly destination. 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.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Key West. Families that enjoy snorkeling, aquariums, water sports, and exploring new places will enjoy visiting this part of the Florida Keys. There are many ways to get out on the water from kayaking and snorkeling to glass bottom boat tours and sunset cruises. There are also many kid-friendly beaches in the area. The town can have a party atmosphere, but it's not hard to find a more family-friendly area where everyone can have fun.

Is Key West or Vail Better for Couples?

Vail is renowned for its romantic activities. Also, Key West is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for couples.

Vail makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. 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.

Key West makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. From Mallory Square to the beautiful nearby parks, Key West makes a wonderful, romantic destination. Whether it's your honeymoon, an anniversary, or simply a couples' retreat, Key West is a great option. You can sip wine on a sunset cruise or dine at one of the many character-filled restaurants in town. If you are looking for a party, it's not hard to find, but if you want a more laid back holiday, that's also possible.

Is Key West or Vail Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Vail is a popular place for backpackers. However, Key West is a mediocre town for backpackers and budget travelers.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Vail. This ski town isn't completely closed off to budget travelers as there are a couple of hostels around town.

Key West is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. Key West is a pretty expensive destination, but there are Airbnbs and even a hostel or two that cater to budget backpackers.

Is Key West or Vail Better for Students?

Key West is a great town for its student-friendly activities. However, Vail is not popular with students.

Key West is a very popular town for students and younger travelers. It's a great spring break destination with a quirky personality and many great activities.

Vail is not popular with students.

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

Vail is a popular place for its public transit. However, Key West is a mediocre town for times when you don't have a car.

Vail has a few public transit options. There is a free bus service through the area.

Public transit is quite limited in Key West. Public transportation in Key West is limited to a few buses.

Is Key West or Vail a more walkable city?

Vail is renowned for its high level of walkability. Also, Key West is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its ease of walking around.

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

Key West is a somewhat walkable town. The town is the most walkable part of the Florida Keys. The area around Mallory Square and Duval Street is the most pedestrian friendly.

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

Should I spend more time in Vail or Key West?

How long in Key West or Vail?

Both Key West and Vail have a number of activities to choose from. In our opinion, Vail has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Vail than Key West. In general, 5-7 days is a good amount of time for Key West, and 3-7 days is enough time in Vail.

Families should spend more time in Vail than Key West. 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 Key West. 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 Vail than Key West 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 Vail.

One day in Key West or Vail?

Visitors enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and nightlife when visiting the destination of Key West. Visiting the old town is also a must. 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 is a small town where visitors enjoy the shopping and skiing. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

A weekend in Key West or Vail?

Key West is a fun place to experience. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Vail is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Key West or Vail?

Visitors enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling when visiting the laid-back destination of Key West. This town offers something for everyone. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Plenty of people spend five days in the area when traveling. Five days is often enough time to do most activities.

Vail is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. It's no surprise that skiing is why people visit. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Vail, five days is sufficent for most. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A week in Key West or Vail?

Visitors enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and nightlife when visiting the bustling town of Key West. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. Many people spend one week here. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Because of this, one week is usually enough time for a trip here.

Vail is a great place to explore. It's no surprise that skiing is why people visit. It is common to spend one week here. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One week is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Vail has to offer. This ski town offers something for everyone.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Los Angeles, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from New York City, The Best 2-Week Tours from New York City, and The Best 2-Week Tours from Anchorage.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Key West or Vail?

Key West has a larger population, and is about 5 times larger than the population of Vail. When comparing the sizes of Key West 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.