A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Lancaster vs. Sedona for Couples, Attractions, Food, and Families

Should you visit Lancaster or Sedona?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Lancaster or Sedona, 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.

Lancaster

Lancaster is a traditional, picturesque, and scenic town. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Visitors also love the shopping, museums, and food.

Sedona

Sedona is a striking, desert, and dramatic town. With plenty of activities and sights, this is a small town worth visiting. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food.

Lancaster and Sedona: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less popular with backpackers
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Nice resorts
  • Scenic old town
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Small town charm
  • Impressive beauty


Is there more to do in Lancaster or Sedona?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Sedona. Although Lancaster and Sedona are both popular with visitors, Sedona has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Sedona is more popular for its food, nightlife, resorts, historical sights, hiking, shopping, small town charm, and impressive beauty, while Lancaster is known for its museums. Sedona is more touristy than Lancaster and is known for its stargazing, desert setting, and yoga retreats. It is also home to Red Rock Crossing Park. Lancaster is popular for its history and long running Amish community.

How is Lancaster different from Sedona?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Lancaster or Sedona?

Lancaster
Sedona

Lancaster is great for its historical sights. Also, Sedona is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its sights and museums.

Lancaster offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. Filled with history and local culture, there are many educational opportunities in the area where you can learn about Amish traditions. The Amish Village has tours and unique experiences. The town also has James Buchanan's Wheatland, the Railroad Museum of Pennsylvania, the National Toy Train Museum, the Ephrata Cloister, and the National Watch & Clock Museum, among many others.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Sedona. The Sedona Heritage Museum offers a glimpse into the history and culture of the area. There are also many galleries around town.


Is the Food Better in Lancaster or Sedona? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Lancaster
Sedona

Sedona is a great town for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Lancaster is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Sedona has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. It's grown into a foodie destination with local restaurants that pride themselves on using local ingredients. Mexican food is common but you'll also find cafes, classic American food, and other international options.

Lancaster offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. You can sample authentic Pennsylvania Dutch dishes at one of the Amish restaurants in the area. Many places serve food family-style and dishes include chicken pot pie, ham balls, and pork and sauerkraut. Whoopie pies also originated in the area.

Is Lancaster or Sedona Better for Nightlife?

Lancaster
Sedona

Sedona is a nice place to visit for its evening party scene. However, Lancaster is not known for nightlife.

If you're looking for night time activities Sedona has a few options to choose from. There are bars, live music venues, and even a casino in town. Breweries are popular and there are also upscale wine bars.

Most people don't head to Lancaster specifically for the nightlife scene, but you can find a few options. It's a small town, but you'll still find local pubs and cozy bars where you can enjoy a drink in a laid back atmosphere.

Is Lancaster or Sedona Better for Resorts?

Lancaster
Sedona

Sedona is a great town for its luxury resorts. However, Lancaster is not a resort destination.

Sedona is a popular resort destination that attracts visitors from everywhere. Upscale resorts with spas, pools, and other amenities offer the perfect backdrop for a desert vacation.

Lancaster is not a resort destination.


Is Lancaster or Sedona Better for its Old Town?

Lancaster
Sedona

Sedona is a nice place to visit for its historic old town charm. However, Lancaster does not have a historic old town.

Sedona has an old town worth visiting. Traditional architecture and historic charm give downtown Sedona a lot of character.

Lancaster does not have a historic old town.

Is Lancaster or Sedona Better for Hiking?

Lancaster
Sedona

Sedona is a great town for hiking. However, Lancaster is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors go to Sedona for the hiking trails. It's red rock cliffs offer the perfect setting for dramatic hikes and breathtaking views. The colors are most impressive at sunrise and sunset and some of the most famous landmarks include Airport Mesa, Cathedral Rock, Bell Rock and Boynton Canyon.

Lancaster is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Lancaster or Sedona?

Lancaster
Sedona

Sedona is an amazing town to visit for its shopping areas. Also, Lancaster is not as popular, but is still a nice town for shopping.

Many people travel to Sedona specifically to go shopping. It's filled with local artisan shops and art galleries that highlight the region's beauty. Head to Uptown Sedona for some of the best boutiques. You should also check out the Tlaquepaque Arts and Crafts Village, the Sedona Art Center, and Hozho Distinctive Shops and Galleries.

Lancaster is an extremely popular place for shoppers. Many visitors pick up hand-crafted Amish items while they're in town. Furniture and Amish quilts are particularly popular. Farmers markets and antique shopping are both unique in the area and there are also art galleries and several outlet stores that you can visit.


Is Lancaster or Sedona Better for Families?

Lancaster
Sedona

Lancaster and Sedona are both very good destinations for the whole family.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Lancaster. In you area you'll find farms and petting zoos, amusement parks, and train rides. They can learn about a unique lifestyle at the Amish Experience or soak up the local beauty and farmland in the surrounding countryside.

Sedona is a very family-friendly place to visit. There are impressive parks and fun outdoor activities for the whole family. Head to Slide Rock State Park where your kids can enjoy a natural waterslide. There's also the Out of Africa Wildlife Zoo as well as a canyon railroad.

Is Lancaster or Sedona Better for Couples?

Lancaster
Sedona

Sedona is an amazing town to visit for couples. Also, Lancaster is not as popular, but is still a nice town for romance.

Sedona has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. Stargazing in the evening or picnicking in a park during the day. There are countless romantic activities that couples can enjoy. The area is filled with striking natural beauty that is at its best during sunset. Couples will also enjoy fine dining and a variety of outdoor activities.

Lancaster is a very popular place to visit for couples. This region is known for it's local beauty and serene farmland, making it a relaxing and peaceful destination for couples. There are walking trails, outdoor activities, buggy rides, and a variety of dining experiences. You can also stay at a bed and breakfast or local inn.

Is Lancaster or Sedona Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Lancaster
Sedona

Sedona is a nice place to visit for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Lancaster is not known for backpackers.

It's common for backpackers to visit Sedona. You'll find campgrounds, RV parks, and motels in the area, but no real hostels.

Lancaster is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. Although it's often overlooked by backpackers, the region offers a unique cultural experience.


Is Lancaster or Sedona Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Lancaster
Sedona

Lancaster and Sedona both offer decent public transit to get you around.

Public transit is mostly limited in Lancaster. The city has buses and several transportation options, but once you're outside of the urban core, your options are limited.

Public transit is generally limited in Sedona. Verde Shuttle offers shuttle routes through town.

Is Lancaster or Sedona a more walkable city?

Lancaster
Sedona

Sedona is a nice place to visit for its ease of walking around. However, Lancaster is not known for its walkability.

Sedona is a somewhat walkable town. If you stay in Uptown Sedona, then the area is walkable, but if you're planning to stay further away then you'll need to have a car.

Lancaster is generally not very walkable. While the city itself has walkable areas, most visitors want to get out and explore the countryside, which requires a car.

For even more information, also check out Is Lancaster Worth Visiting? and Is Sedona Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Sedona or Lancaster?

How long in Lancaster or Sedona?

In either Lancaster or Sedona, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Sedona than Lancaster because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Lancaster, and 3-5 days is enough time in Sedona.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Sedona than Lancaster 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 Sedona.


  • How many days in Lancaster or Sedona? Ideal Length of Stay
    Lancaster 2-3 
    Sedona 3-5

One day in Lancaster or Sedona?

Many travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the destination of Lancaster. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

Even though Sedona is a small town, it has plenty of activities to choose from. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.


A weekend in Lancaster or Sedona?

Lancaster 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.

Sedona is a small town where visitors enjoy the museums and nightlife. Hikers are also drawn to this area. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Five days in Lancaster or Sedona?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Lancaster. 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.

Sedona is a small town with plenty to do. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this town makes for a great vacation. It's also a relaxing resort destination. Most people head to the area for the shopping. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this town has to offer.

A week in Lancaster or Sedona?

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the picturesque destination of Lancaster. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

Sedona is a popular choice for travelers. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. 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. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.


For some great organized tour ideas, see Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in United States of America, The Best Coach Bus Tours in United States of America, The Best Adventure Tours to United States of America, and The Best Train & Rail Tours in United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Sedona or Lancaster?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Lancaster is $183, while the average daily cost in Sedona is $165. 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 Lancaster and Sedona in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Lancaster $91
    Sedona $93
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Lancaster $182
    Sedona $186
Compare Hotels in Lancaster and Sedona

Looking for a hotel in Lancaster or Sedona? 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 Lancaster


Hotels in Sedona


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: Lancaster Hotel Prices and Sedona Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Lancaster $69
    Sedona $40

Is it cheaper to fly into Lancaster or Sedona?

Prices for flights to both Sedona and Lancaster 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
    Lancaster $53
    Sedona $48

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Lancaster

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

  • International Food Tour Lancaster, Pennsylvania: $62
  • Red Rose Walking Food Tour in Lancaster: $65

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Sedona

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

  • The VIP Experience, Chuck Wagon Dinner and Show Tickets: $119
  • Sedona/Flagstaff: Grand Canyon Day Trip with Dinner & Sunset: $241
  • Cooking class and candlelit dinner with a view: $251

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Lancaster $19
    Sedona $19

Tours and Activities in Lancaster

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Lancaster.

  • 45-Minute Private Guided Historic Walking Tour in Lititz: $12
  • Amish Experience SuperSaver Package: $47
  • Authentic Tour & Meal with the Amish!: $89
  • From Philadelphia: Lancaster County Amish Community Tour: $179
  • Guided Ghost Tour of Lititz: $12
  • Guided Tour of the 1792 Johannes Mueller House: $12
  • Historic Columbia, PA: Guided Tour of the Bank Museum: $14
  • Historic Lancaster Photo Shoot Tour: $100
  • Lancaster County: Tour and Meal with an Amish Family: $79
  • Lancaster Electric Bicycle Tour: $130
  • Lancaster History and Breakfast Walking Tour: $57
  • Lancaster Puzzling Adventure: $35

Typical Entertainment Prices in Sedona

For Sedona, here are some examples of average entertainment and activity prices from previous travelers:


  • Red Rock Fantasy Light Show (for 2)
    $10

Tours and Activities in Sedona

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Sedona.

  • Private 4-Hour Sedona Spectacular Journey and Vortex Tour: $289
  • Sedona Soul Tour with Shamanic Guide: $295
  • 3-Hour Sedona Spirit Journey and Vortex Tour : $222
  • Amitabha Stupa and Peace Park Sedona, Arizona Experience: $300
  • Antelope Canyon X and Horseshoe Bend Scenic Tour from Sedona & Flagstaff: $285
  • Antelope Canyon and Horseshoe Bend Small-Group Tour from Sedona or Flagstaff: $285
  • Antelope Canyon and Horseshoe Bend Tour from Sedona: $285
  • Antelope Slot Canyon and Horseshoe Bend Day Tour from Sedona: $285
  • Best Sightseeing tour in Sedona Vortex and THE CITY VIP : $164
  • Best UFO Tour of Sedona: $110
  • Chuck Wagon Supper & Western Stage Show at Blazin' M Ranch Ticket: $74
  • Colorado Plateau on 4x4: 2-Hour Tour from Sedona: $150

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Lancaster $11
    Sedona $13

Sample the Local Flavors in Lancaster

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Lancaster:

  • Guided Brewery Walking Tour in Lancaster City: $79
  • Lancaster City: The Ultimate Walking Craft Brewery Tour: $79

Sample the Local Flavors in Sedona

Also in Sedona, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • Elevated Social Wine Tours of Sedona's Vineyards : $85
  • Bliss Sedona’s Most Luxurious Wine Tour with Lunch Included: $115
  • All inclusive Sedona Join in Wine Tour 200+ 5 star reviews!: $179
  • Tastings Included! EXPRESS PRIVATE ELEVATED WINE TOUR: $199
  • Pedal and Paddle Wine Tour in Arizona: $235
  • Private Wine Tour in Sedona, Arizona: $295


When comparing the travel costs between Lancaster and Sedona, we can see that Lancaster 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 Lancaster Expensive? and Is Sedona Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Lancaster or Sedona?

Lancaster has a larger population, and is about 5 times larger than the population of Sedona. When comparing the sizes of Lancaster and Sedona, 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.