A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Mazatlan vs. Sun Valley for Families, Couples, Attractions, and Food

Should you visit Mazatlan or Sun Valley?

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

Should I visit Mazatlan 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.

Mazatlan

Mazatlan is a historical, cultural, and authentic city. It's also known for nightlife, food, and scuba diving and snorkeling.

Sun Valley

Sun Valley is a outdoorsy, active, and adventurous town. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the food, hiking, and shopping.

Mazatlan and Sun Valley: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Mazatlan or Sun Valley?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Mazatlan. Although Mazatlan and Sun Valley are popular destinations, Mazatlan has more sights and attractions for tourists. Mazatlan is very popular for its museums, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and historical sights, while Sun Valley attracts visitors for its skiing, resorts, hiking, and impressive beauty. Sun Valley is more touristy than Mazatlan and is known for its ski resorts as well as being the home of Ernest Hemingway. Mazatlan is famous for its historic center, authenticity, and surfing areas. It is also well known for the Malecon.

How is Mazatlan different from Sun Valley?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Mazatlan or Sun Valley Better for Skiing?

Sun Valley is a world-class destination for winter skiing. However, Mazatlan 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.

Mazatlan is not a skiing destination.

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

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

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around Mazatlan. There are colonial buildings around the Centro Historico. You should also check out the Historic Cathedral and the Angela Peralta Theater.

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 Mazatlan or Sun Valley? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Foodies will find both Mazatlan and Sun Valley both to be superb destinations.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Mazatlan. Stewed meats and shrimp are a big part of the cuisine here. Many recipes have a little bit of spice. The restaurants around town are authentic and local, making for a great dining experience.

Sun Valley has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. Many restaurants pride themselves in using local, organic, and sustainable ingredients. You'll find everything from cafes and bakeries to sushi, pizza, and Mediterranean.

Is Mazatlan or Sun Valley Better for Nightlife?

Party-goers will find similar levels of energy in Mazatlan and Sun Valley.

Mazatlan has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. There are plenty of bars and clubs around town, particularly along the beach. Like anywhere else, remember to stay cautious late at night around town. This is considered to be one of the less safe parts of Mexico.

If you're looking for night time activities Sun Valley has a few options to choose from. 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.

Is Mazatlan or Sun Valley Better for Resorts?

Sun Valley is well known for its resorts. However, Mazatlan 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.

Mazatlan is not a resort destination.

Is Mazatlan or Sun Valley Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Mazatlan is a good destination for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Sun Valley is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Grab a mask and fins and explore the underwater scenery in Mazatlan. Most of the diving takes place around the Pajaros, Venados and Lobos islands. This is where you'll see the most tropical fish.

Sun Valley is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Mazatlan or Sun Valley Better for Beaches?

Mazatlan is a great destination for its beaches. However, Sun Valley is not a beach destination.

Many people visit Mazatlan for it's beautiful beaches. There are many stretches of beach around town. Most notable is the 13 miles that run along Malecon where there's a boardwalk. Surfing is also popular in the area.

Sun Valley is not a beach destination.

Is Mazatlan or Sun Valley Better for its Old Town?

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

There are many historical things to see in the old town of Mazatlan. It's a historic port city with a charming colonial old town.

Sun Valley does not have a historic old town.

Is Mazatlan or Sun Valley Better for Hiking?

Sun Valley is well known for its hiking experiences. However, Mazatlan 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.

Mazatlan is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Mazatlan or Sun Valley?

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

Mazatlan offers some nice shopping areas. There are local shops, big box stores, and souvenir vendors where you can pick up anything you may need or items to commemorate your trip.

Sun Valley has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. 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 Mazatlan or Sun Valley Better for Families?

Sun Valley is a world-class destination for its family-friendly activities. Also, Mazatlan 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.

Mazatlan offers lots of family activities. Kids will enjoy the all-inclusive resorts and the waterfront setting. There are also many cultural opportunities such as markets, history, and shows. The food is very kid-friendly as well.

Is Mazatlan or Sun Valley Better for Couples?

Sun Valley is a world-class destination for its romantic activities. Also, Mazatlan is still popular, but not quite as popular for couples.

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.

Mazatlan is a good city for couples to visit. The resorts are romantic and the beaches are stunning. If you're looking for an idyllic escape that also has culture, authenticity, and great food, then this is your spot.

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

Mazatlan and Sun Valley are superb places to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Mazatlan is a great city to visit for backpackers. The laid back atmosphere makes this a great stopover for backpackers who want to experience the Mexican culture. Stick to the touristy areas if possible.

Plenty of budget travelers and backpackers visit Sun Valley. There are a couple of hostels in the area and plenty of activities that appeal to the backpacker crowd.

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

Sun Valley is well known for its public transit. Also, Mazatlan is still popular, but not quite as popular for times when you don't have a car.

Sun Valley has some very good public transit options. 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.

While Mazatlan offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There are city buses around town.

Is Mazatlan or Sun Valley a more walkable city?

Sun Valley is a world-class destination for its high level of walkability. Also, Mazatlan is still popular, but not quite as popular for its ease of walking around.

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.

Mazatlan is a very walkable destination. The city is relatively walkable.

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

Should I spend more time in Sun Valley or Mazatlan?

How long in Mazatlan or Sun Valley?

Both Mazatlan 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 Mazatlan. Usually, 3-5 days is a good amount of time for Mazatlan, and 3-7 days is enough time in Sun Valley.

Families should spend more time in Sun Valley than Mazatlan. 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 Mazatlan. 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.

One day in Mazatlan or Sun Valley?

With food and scuba diving and snorkeling around the historical city of Mazatlan, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

The beautiful town of Sun Valley offers nightlife and food. 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 Mazatlan or Sun Valley?

With scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping around the destination of Mazatlan, there's plenty to do. It's also a great beach destination, too. It offers something for everyone. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything.

Sun Valley 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 Mazatlan or Sun Valley?

Mazatlan, a popular city, is full of activities for travelers. This is a popular place to visit for five days. Visiting the old town is also a must. In five days, you should have a good grasp of this city. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Sun Valley 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 Sun Valley, five days is sufficent for most. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A week in Mazatlan or Sun Valley?

Mazatlan 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 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 Sun Valley has to offer. This town offers something for everyone.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Food and Culinary Tours in Mexico, The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Mexico, The Best Family-Friendly Tours to United States of America, and The Best Wildlife Tours to United States of America.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Mazatlan or Sun Valley?

Mazatlan has a larger population, and is about 240 times larger than the population of Sun Valley. When comparing the sizes of Mazatlan 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.