A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Lewisburg vs. Sun Valley for Families, Couples, Food, and Backpackers

Should you visit Lewisburg or Sun Valley?

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

Should I visit Lewisburg or Sun Valley? 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.

Lewisburg

Lewisburg is a quaint, charming, and historical town. Don't miss this spot, as it's a charming small town with plenty of activities. It's also known for shopping and museums.

Sun Valley

Sun Valley is a adventurous, outdoorsy, and active town. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for food, hiking, and shopping.

Lewisburg and Sun Valley: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Scenic old town
  • Good for students
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for food
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less family-friendly
  • Less popular with couples
  • Less popular with backpackers
  • Public transit not as usable
  • Less walkable
Pros
  • Popular for skiing
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Nice resorts
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good public transit
  • Very walkable
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights


Is there more to do in Lewisburg or Sun Valley?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Sun Valley. Although Lewisburg and Sun Valley are both popular with visitors, Sun Valley has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Sun Valley is more popular for its skiing, food, nightlife, resorts, hiking, and impressive beauty, while Lewisburg is known for its museums, historical sights, and small town charm. Sun Valley is more touristy than Lewisburg and is known for its ski resorts as well as being the home of Ernest Hemingway. It is also home to Sawtooth National Recreation Area. Lewisburg is popular for its historical charm and friendly personality.

How is Lewisburg different from Sun Valley?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Lewisburg or Sun Valley Better for Skiing?

Lewisburg
Sun Valley

Sun Valley is an amazing town to visit for winter skiing. However, Lewisburg is not a skiing destination.

If you're an avid snow skiier, Sun Valley should be on your list. There are plenty of slopes that are accessible by lift as well as backcountry terrain for those who are more adventurous. The ski areas include Bald Mountain, which is next to Ketchum, and Dollar Mountain, by Sun Valley. Bald Mountain is best for advanced skiers and Dollar Mountain has options for beginners and intermediates.

Lewisburg is not a skiing destination.


Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Lewisburg or Sun Valley?

Lewisburg
Sun Valley

Lewisburg is a good destination for its museums and landmarks. However, Sun Valley is a town with minimal options for its historical sights.

Lewisburg is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. There are several cultural and historical museums in town as well as a fun children's museum.

While most people don't head to Sun Valley specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. Museums in the area include the Sun Valley Museum of Art and the Wood River Museum of History and Culture.

Is the Food Better in Lewisburg or Sun Valley? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Lewisburg
Sun Valley

Sun Valley is well known for its restaurant scene. However, Lewisburg is not particularly known for its local flavors and cuisine.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Sun Valley makes for a great culinary experience. Many restaurants pride themselves in using local, organic, and sustainable ingredients. You'll find everything from cafes and bakeries to sushi, pizza, and Mediterranean.

You'll find the standard options when it comes to food in Lewisburg. There are bistros and cafes as well as all the standard chain restaurants.

Is Lewisburg or Sun Valley Better for Nightlife?

Lewisburg
Sun Valley

Sun Valley is a popular place for nightlife. However, Lewisburg is not particularly known for nightlife and partying.

Sun Valley has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. It's a low key town with relaxing bars and breweries where you can enjoy a cold drink after a day on the slopes. It's not a party town that's high energy, but there are plenty of places where you can hang out in a mellow setting.

Lewisburg doesn't have the most active nightlife scene. While there are some bars, most people don't come here for the nightlife.


Is Lewisburg or Sun Valley Better for Resorts?

Lewisburg
Sun Valley

Sun Valley is well known for its resorts. However, Lewisburg is not a resort destination.

Sun Valley is known as a popular and fun resort destination. The most popular place to stay is Sun Valley Lodge, but there are also other small lodges and hotels in the area.

Lewisburg is not a resort destination.

Is Lewisburg or Sun Valley Better for its Old Town?

Lewisburg
Sun Valley

Lewisburg is a good destination for its historic old town. However, Sun Valley does not have a historic old town.

Many visitors go to Lewisburg to see the historical old town. There are a huge number of historical buildings in the downtown area that contribute to the town's charm and character.

Sun Valley does not have a historic old town.

Is Lewisburg or Sun Valley Better for Hiking?

Lewisburg
Sun Valley

Sun Valley is well known for its hiking experiences. However, Lewisburg is not a hiking destination.

You'll find a nice variety of hiking trails around Sun Valley. During the warmer months you'll enjoy miles of hiking trails in the area that take you by fields of wildflowers and to scenic mountain overlooks. White Cloud Trails is a relatively easy 4 mile trail that many visitors enjoy. Baker Lake and Taylor Canyon are also nice options.

Lewisburg is not a hiking destination.


Is the Shopping Better in Lewisburg or Sun Valley?

Lewisburg
Sun Valley

Shopping is a popular activity in both Sun Valley and Lewisburg.

Lewisburg is a great destination for shopping. There are some quaint local shops that sell local items and unique art works.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Sun Valley. While most visitors spend their time adventuring outdoors, there are also plenty of shopping options in the area. Whether you need to pick up hiking or ski gear, or you want to browse some local boutiques, you'll find shops that meet your need.

Is Lewisburg or Sun Valley Better for Families?

Lewisburg
Sun Valley

Sun Valley is an amazing town to visit for its family-friendly activities. Also, Lewisburg is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

As it has a large number of activities for kids, Sun Valley is a very family-friendly destination. During the winter months there's skiing, ice skating, and other winter activities. During the warmer months families will enjoy riding the Roundhouse Express Gondola, hiking through the mountains, or horseback riding.

Lewisburg offers lots of family activities. The Lewisburg Children's Museum is worth checking out, as is Reptiland and the many different indoor and outdoor play areas.

Is Lewisburg or Sun Valley Better for Couples?

Lewisburg
Sun Valley

Sun Valley is an amazing town to visit for romance. However, Lewisburg is not particularly known for its romantic activities.

Sun Valley makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. Couples who enjoy winter sports and outdoor activities will love a romantic getaway to the area. There's also a charming downtown area that has great restaurants. In the surrounding countryside there's plenty of spectacular hikes that couples will enjoy as well.

Most people don't think of Lewisburg as a couple's destination. There are several quaint inns and beautiful gardens that you can explore. There are also spas and restaurants where you can enjoy a nice meal.


Is Lewisburg or Sun Valley Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Lewisburg
Sun Valley

Sun Valley is well known for backpackers. However, Lewisburg is not particularly known for backpackers and budget travelers.

Backpackers come from all over to visit Sun Valley. There are a couple of hostels in the area and plenty of activities that appeal to the backpacker crowd.

Lewisburg is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. It's not really on the radar for most backpackers.

Is Lewisburg or Sun Valley Better for Students?

Lewisburg
Sun Valley

Lewisburg is a good destination for students. However, Sun Valley is not popular with students.

Lewisburg is popular with students. Many students enjoy living here while they attend Bucknell University.

Sun Valley is not popular with students.

Is Lewisburg or Sun Valley Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Lewisburg
Sun Valley

Sun Valley is well known for its public transit. However, Lewisburg is not particularly known for times when you don't have a car.

Visitors to Sun Valley can move around easily with public transportation. There are free shuttle buses that run through Wood River Valley including connections between the Village and Dollar and Bald Mountains. It's also connected to Ketchum and Elkhorn Springs.

Public transit is mostly limited in Lewisburg. Public transportation in the area is limited.


Is Lewisburg or Sun Valley a more walkable city?

Lewisburg
Sun Valley

Sun Valley is an amazing town to visit for its walkability. Also, Lewisburg is still popular, but not quite as popular for its high level of walkability.

Getting around Sun Valley on foot is easy. It's easy to walk to almost anything you need if you stay at a conveniently located hotel.

Lewisburg is a somewhat walkable place. It's small with a relatively compact downtown.

For even more information, also check out Is Lewisburg Worth Visiting? and Is Sun Valley Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Sun Valley or Lewisburg?

How long in Lewisburg or Sun Valley?

Both Lewisburg and Sun Valley have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Sun Valley than in Lewisburg. Usually, 1-2 days is a good amount of time for Lewisburg, and 3-7 days is enough time in Sun Valley.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Sun Valley than Lewisburg 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 Sun Valley.


  • How many days in Lewisburg or Sun Valley? Ideal Length of Stay
    Lewisburg 1-2 
    Sun Valley 3-7

One day in Lewisburg or Sun Valley?

With museums and shopping around the charming town of Lewisburg, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Lewisburg, one day is sufficent for most.

You'll find food and shopping around the town of Sun Valley. 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 Lewisburg or Sun Valley?

With shopping and museums around the destination of Lewisburg, there's plenty to do. It offers something for everyone. Many people spend a weekend here. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this town.

You'll find shopping and skiing around the adventurous destination of Sun Valley. 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 Lewisburg or Sun Valley?

Lewisburg, a popular town, is full of activities for travelers. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

You'll find skiing and nightlife around the active town of Sun Valley. 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 skiing. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this town has to offer.

A week in Lewisburg or Sun Valley?

Lewisburg is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Sun Valley is a popular choice for travelers. One week here is typical. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Sun Valley, one week is sufficent for most. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Contiki Tours to United States of America, The Best G Adventures Tours to United States of America, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Las Vegas, and The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Anchorage.


Which place is cheaper, Sun Valley or Lewisburg?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Lewisburg is $136, while the average daily cost in Sun Valley is $184. 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 Lewisburg and Sun Valley in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Lewisburg $70
    Sun Valley $95
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Lewisburg $140
    Sun Valley $190
Compare Hotels in Lewisburg and Sun Valley

Looking for a hotel in Lewisburg or Sun Valley? 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 Lewisburg


Hotels in Sun Valley


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: Sun Valley Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Lewisburg $53
    Sun Valley $61

Is it cheaper to fly into Lewisburg or Sun Valley?

Prices for flights to both Sun Valley and Lewisburg 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
    Lewisburg $34
    Sun Valley $48

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Lewisburg $18
    Sun Valley $42

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Lewisburg $12
    Sun Valley $49


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

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


Which is Bigger, Lewisburg or Sun Valley?

Lewisburg has a larger population, and is about 4 times larger than the population of Sun Valley. When comparing the sizes of Lewisburg and Sun Valley, 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.