A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Napa Valley vs. Moab for Food, Hiking, Couples, and Nightlife

Should you visit Napa Valley or Moab?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Napa Valley and Moab can help. It includes a travel cost comparison in addition to other factors. For many travelers, the cost of a destination is a primary consideration when choosing where to go.

Napa Valley

Napa Valley is a scenic, picturesque, and idyllic area. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. Other reasons to visit include shopping, nightlife, and food.

Moab

Moab is a scenic, adventurous, and active town. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. It's also popular because of the shopping, food, and hiking.

Napa Valley and Moab: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • Less popular with backpackers
Pros
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to Delicate Arch in Arches National Park
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • Less popular for food
  • Less popular for nightlife


Is there more to do in Napa Valley or Moab?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Moab than Napa Valley, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Moab is better known for its hiking, while Napa Valley is more popular for its food, nightlife, and shopping. Moab is more touristy than Napa Valley and is known for its desert landscapes and the iconic arches found at Arches National Park. Also, Moab is famous for Delicate Arch in Arches National Park. Napa Valley is well known for its world class wineries and beautiful countryside.

How is Napa Valley different from Moab?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Napa Valley or Moab?

Napa Valley
Moab

You'll find a number of respectable museums and attractions in both Moab and Napa Valley.

While most people don't head to Napa Valley specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. Most visitors spend their time visiting vineyards, but there are a couple of local museums and galleries in the area that are worth checking out.

Moab offers a handful of options for museums and historical sights. There are a couple of museums in the area that will teach you about the geology and history. You can pop in the Moab Museum or the Film Museum at Red Cliffs Ranch, as well as the galleries around town.


Is the Food Better in Napa Valley or Moab? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Napa Valley
Moab

Napa Valley is very popular for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Moab is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its local cuisine and restaurants.

For foodies, Napa Valley is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. It's most known for its world-class wine, but Napa Valley is also filled with Michelin starred restaurants and charming local eateries. Whether you're looking for a casual meal or something more upscale, there is no shortage of options. Most places take advantage of local ingredients that are very fresh. Menus change regularly and seasonal ingredients are common. And, of course, you'll find a wide selection of local wines.

Visitors will find a budding food and restaurant scene in Moab. The town has grown over the years and now you'll find a diverse selection of restaurants that serve decent food. There are steakhouses, pizzerias, and even a couple ice cream shops.

Is Napa Valley or Moab Better for Nightlife?

Napa Valley
Moab

Napa Valley is great for nightlife. However, Moab is not a good destination for nightlife and partying.

Many people head to Napa Valley for the nightlife scene. In the evening, visitors will enjoy the area's live music scene, theaters, and bars. There are also plenty of wine bars where you can continue to enjoy local wines.

Most people don't head to Moab specifically for the nightlife scene, but you can find a few options. The town has grown significantly and you'll find bars, taverns, and breweries where you can hang out in the evening, but it's still a quiet place with a laid back atmosphere.

Is Napa Valley or Moab Better for Hiking?

Napa Valley
Moab

Moab is terrific for hiking. Also, Napa Valley is not as popular, but is still a nice area for the nearby hiking options.

Around Moab visitors will find world-class hiking trails. The area is filled with hiking trails, both inside the nearby national parks as well as outside. Canyonlands National Park is large with impressive overlooks, while Arches National Park has fun hikes that take you by diverse arches and include many opportunities for scrambling. Outside of the park, hikers can visit Corona Arch or search for dinosaur footprints at Dinosaur Tracks Trail.

Napa Valley is a popular spot for hiking. There are a number of state parks in the area, and there are also trails that pass by vineyards. Some of the best hiking trails are found in Alston Park, Bothe-Napa Valley State Park, or Las Posadas State Forest.


Is the Shopping Better in Napa Valley or Moab?

Napa Valley
Moab

Napa Valley is great for shopping. Also, Moab is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its shopping opportunities.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Napa Valley. There are many interesting local boutiques in the different towns. You'll find shops selling clothing, jewelry, local items, and gifts. Some of the best shopping is found along First Street in downtown Napa.

Moab offers some nice shopping areas. There are gift shops, places to buy outdoor equipment, and convenient stores around town. There are also a number of art galleries that sell local items or impressive photography.

Is Napa Valley or Moab Better for Families?

Napa Valley
Moab

Moab is a great town for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Napa Valley is not as popular, but is still a nice area for its family-friendly activities.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Moab. It's a world of outdoor adventures. You'll find river rafting, mountain biking, rock climbing, and many kid-friendly trails. There's also the Tracks Museum, where kids can learn about dinosaurs as well as swimming pools or swimming holes in the area.

Napa Valley is a family-friendly place to visit. Vineyards and wine tasting may be what comes to mind for most travelers in Napa Valley, but those visiting with kids will appreciate the hiking trails, markets, and outdoor activities.

Is Napa Valley or Moab Better for Couples?

Napa Valley
Moab

Napa Valley is very popular for romance. Also, Moab is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its romantic activities.

Napa Valley makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. It's long been considered a favorite honeymoon destination for newly-weds. The scenic vineyards and charming hotels make this the perfect couple's destination, whether you're celebrating an anniversary or simply want some time away together.

Moab is a very popular place to visit for couples. The area is filled with adventurous fun, with everything from world-class hikes to impressive rafting trips. The dramatic landscape provides the backdrop for a truly spectacular trip.


Is Napa Valley or Moab Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Napa Valley
Moab

Moab is a great town for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Napa Valley is not known for backpackers.

Plenty of budget travelers and backpackers visit Moab. The town has many campgrounds and even a few hostels. Arches National Park has only a few backcountry overnight camping sites. Terrain is rough and most areas aren't accessible by trail.

Napa Valley is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. It's considered to be more of a luxury destination than a backpacker's retreat, but there are a few affordable places to stay in the area.

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

Napa Valley
Moab

Neither Napa Valley or Moab offer decent public transit.

Public transit is quite limited in Napa Valley. Public transit in the area is limited but within the city of Napa there are buses operated by the Vine Transit.

Public transit is limited or non-existant in Moab. There are efforts to create a transportation program within town, but there are limited transportation options available. If you book a tour, they usually provide transportation.

Is Napa Valley or Moab a more walkable city?

Napa Valley
Moab

Moab is adequate for its ease of walking around. However, Napa Valley is not known for its walkability.

Moab is generally not a very walkable town. While it's possible to walk around within the town, most visitors don't come to visit they town, they come to explore the area. You'll need a car to access most points of interest in the area.

Napa Valley is not a walkable area. The vineyards are spread out and require a car or bike to access.


For even more information, also check out Is Napa Valley Worth Visiting? and Is Moab Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Moab or Napa Valley?

How long in Napa Valley or Moab?

In either Napa Valley or Moab, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Moab than Napa Valley because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 1-4 days is a good amount of time for Napa Valley, and 2-5 days is enough time in Moab.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Moab than Napa Valley 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 Moab.


  • How many days in Napa Valley or Moab? Ideal Length of Stay
    Napa Valley 1-4 
    Moab 2-5

One day in Napa Valley or Moab?

Visitors enjoy the shopping and nightlife when visiting the destination of Napa Valley. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One day is usually enough time to experience most activities.

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the adventurous town of Moab. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Most people visit for the hiking. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A weekend in Napa Valley or Moab?

Napa Valley is a fun place to experience. Most people visit for the food. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. Hikers are also drawn to this area. A weekend is often enough time to do most activities. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Visitors enjoy the shopping and food when visiting the active destination of Moab. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. This town offers something for everyone. Plenty of people spend a weekend in the area when traveling. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

Five days in Napa Valley or Moab?

You'll find food and shopping around the picturesque destination of Napa Valley. This area offers something for everyone. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the active town of Moab. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. Many people spend five days here.If you enjoy all that's offered here, then five days is just the right amount of time to spend here. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.


A week in Napa Valley or Moab?

The scenic area of Napa Valley offers shopping and nightlife. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. 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.

Many people enjoy the shopping and food when visiting Moab. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. Most people visit for the hiking. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Cultural Tours in United States of America, The Best Photography Tours in United States of America, The Best Camping Tours in United States of America, and The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Moab or Napa Valley?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Napa Valley is $288, while the average daily cost in Moab is $388. 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 Napa Valley and Moab in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Napa Valley $126
    Moab $336
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Napa Valley $252
    Moab $672
Compare Hotels in Napa Valley and Moab

Looking for a hotel in Napa Valley or Moab? 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 Napa Valley


Hotels in Moab


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: Napa Valley Hotel Prices and Moab Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Napa Valley $183
    Moab $17

Is it cheaper to fly into Napa Valley or Moab?

Prices for flights to both Moab and Napa Valley 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
    Napa Valley $62
    Moab $37

Typical Food Prices in Moab

Here are some examples of typical meal expenses from previous travelers to Moab:


  • Moab Brewery
    $42
  • Breakfast for Two
    $17

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Moab

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

  • Colorado River Dinner Cruise with Music and Light Show: $99
  • Colorado River Sunset Boat Tour with Optional Dinner: $109

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Napa Valley $28
    Moab $3.13

Tours and Activities in Napa Valley

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

  • #1 Sonoma Walking Food, Wine & History Tour (Small Groups): $179
  • 3-Hour Guided Wine Country Tour in Sonoma on Electric Trike: $175
  • Behind-the-Scenes Food and Wine E-Bike Tour: $179
  • Full-Day Napa Valley E-Bike Tour: $225
  • Half Day Bike Tour: $139
  • Half Day Tour: $139
  • Half-Day Napa Valley E-Bike Tour: $184
  • Napa Puzzling Adventure: $35
  • Napa Scavenger Hunt Walking Tour and Game: $25
  • Napa Valley River History Kayak Tour: Single Kayaks: $79
  • Napa Valley Wineries Tour Including Picnic Lunch: $125
  • Napa Valley Winery Open Air Tour: $125

Typical Entertainment Prices in Moab

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


  • Slickrock Trail Pass
    $5.00

Tours and Activities in Moab

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

  • 2 Hours Guided UTV Tour in Moab Utah: $129
  • 25+ National Parks Self-Guided Driving Tours Bundle: $85
  • 3-Hours Sunset Arches National Park Pavement Sights Tour: $191
  • Afternoon Arches National Park 4x4 Tour: $185
  • Afternoon Canyonlands Island In The Sky 4X4 Tour: $185
  • Afternoon Half Day Moab Jeep Tour: $152
  • Arches & Canyonlands: Two-Day Private Tour & Hike: $2,395
  • Arches Full Day Small Group Tour : $299
  • Arches National Park 4x4 Adventure from Moab: $197
  • Arches National Park Airplane Tour: $189
  • Arches National Park Back Country Adventure from Moab: $142
  • Arches National Park Backcountry Tour: $252

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Napa Valley $66
    Moab $66

Sample the Local Flavors in Napa Valley

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

  • 6 Hour Wine Tour in Napa & Sonoma with Pick-Up from Napa: $109
  • Napa Cable Car Wine Tasting Tour: $129
  • Intro to Wine Tasting with Napa Sommelière : $195
  • Healdsburg Cycling Wine Tour : $199
  • Affordable Wine Tour in Napa and Sonoma: $200
  • Yountville Food and Wine Tour in Napa: $275
  • Private, Customized Sonoma Valley Wine Tour: $300


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

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


Which is Bigger, Napa Valley or Moab?

Napa Valley has a larger population, and is about 20 times larger than the population of Moab. When comparing the sizes of Napa Valley and Moab, 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.