A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America New Orleans vs. Vail for Food, Nightlife, Music, and Families

Should you visit New Orleans or Vail?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between New Orleans and Vail 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.

New Orleans

New Orleans is a festive, vibrant, and energetic city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. This destination also has one of those special and quaint feelings. Visitors also love the live music, food, and nightlife.

Vail

Vail is a vibrant, upscale, and resort-filled ski town. Since it offers so much small town charm with a variety of activities, it attracts plenty of visitors, too. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It also has that perfectly quaint feel that is like no other place. Other reasons to visit include food, hiking, and shopping.

New Orleans and Vail: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in New Orleans or Vail?

Travelers will usually find more to do in New Orleans. Although New Orleans and Vail are popular destinations, New Orleans has more sights and attractions for tourists. New Orleans is very popular for its food, nightlife, music, historical sights, and big city activities, while Vail attracts visitors for its skiing, resorts, hiking, shopping, christmas markets, small town charm, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere. New Orleans is famous for its jazz festivals, local cuisine, quaint balconies, and world class Mardi Gras parties. It is also well known for The French Quarter. Vail is famous for its world-class skiing, charming mountain town atmosphere, and adventurous outdoor activities.

The French Quarter

How is New Orleans different from Vail?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is New Orleans or Vail Better for Skiing?

Vail is a world-class destination for skiing and snowboarding. However, New Orleans is not a skiing destination.

Visitors will find world class skiing in Vail. 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.

New Orleans is not a skiing destination.

Is the Food Better in New Orleans or Vail? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

New Orleans is a must-visit destination for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Vail is not as popular, but is still a nice ski town for its local cuisine and restaurants.

For foodies, New Orleans is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. It has rapidly grown into one of the United State's most well known foodie destinations. It's the birthplace of bananas foster and popular for it's gumbo, crawfish etouffee, jambalaya, and red beans and rice. While there are a number of celebrity chefs from New Orleans, you'll also find many local restaurants that aren't as well known but are equally worth visiting.

There are many up and coming restaurants in the Vail area. 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 New Orleans or Vail Better for Nightlife?

New Orleans is a must-visit destination for nightlife and partying. Also, Vail is not as popular, but is still a nice ski town for its evening party scene.

New Orleans is a world class party destination. The nightlife scene is at its best during Mardi Gras. But year-round you'll find Bachelor and Bachelorette parties, spring breakers, and anyone who wants to enjoy a crazy time heads to New Orleans. New Orleans is a destination that attracts partiers any time of the year, and the French Quarter is the place to be if you're looking for a party.

Vail offers plenty to do in the evening. 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 New Orleans or Vail Better for Music?

New Orleans is a must-visit destination for its live music scene. Also, Vail is not as popular, but is still a nice ski town for its music scene.

With so many music venues, you're guaranteed a show any night of the week in New Orleans. The city is known for its music festivals that feature jazz, blues, and many other types of live music. The Jazz Festival is a great time to visit.

Music lovers will find a few good venues in Vail. You can often find live music at Shakedown Bar, Bridge Street Bar, and the Red Lion.

Is New Orleans or Vail Better for Resorts?

Vail is an excellent place to visit for its luxury resorts. However, New Orleans is not a resort destination.

In Vail, you'll find some of the region's top resorts. 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.

New Orleans is not a resort destination.

Is New Orleans or Vail Better for its Old Town?

New Orleans is a great city for its old town. However, Vail does not have a historic old town.

Many visitors explore the old town while visiting New Orleans. The French Quarter is filled with old architecture and beautiful historic landmarks.

Vail does not have a historic old town.

Is New Orleans or Vail Better for Hiking?

Vail is an excellent place to visit for its hiking trails. However, New Orleans is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors explore the nearby hiking trails while visiting Vail. 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.

New Orleans is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in New Orleans or Vail?

Vail is an excellent place to visit for shopping. However, New Orleans is lacking in options for its shopping opportunities.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Vail. 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.

If you're looking to go shopping, New Orleans has some nice offerings. New Orleans shopping is mostly centered around shopping malls and chain stores.

Is New Orleans or Vail Better for Christmas?

Vail is a world-class destination for its Christmas holiday experiences. However, New Orleans does not offer Christmas activities.

Known for its popular Christmas activities, Vail draws large crowds. The town is a winter wonderland during the holidays. Check out the iconic Christmas tree lighting and wander through the fairytale streets.

New Orleans does not offer Christmas activities.

Is New Orleans or Vail Better for Christmas Markets?

Vail is an excellent place to visit for visiting Christmas markets. However, New Orleans does not offer Christmas markets.

Vail offers plenty of Christmas markets. The town's Christmas Market is picturesque, and the perfect place to pick up some unique gifts.

New Orleans does not offer Christmas markets.

Is New Orleans or Vail Better for Families?

Vail is a world-class destination for its kid-friendly activities. However, New Orleans is lacking in options for its family-friendly activities.

Vail is an extremely popular ski town to visit for families. 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.

New Orleans doesn't usually come to mind when thinking about kid-friendly destinations. While there are some family-friendly activities in New Orleans like a zoo and several great parks, the city is more known for its parties and nightlife scene. Particularly during certain seasons, most people choose to visit New Orleans without kids.

Is New Orleans or Vail Better for Couples?

Vail is a world-class destination for romance. Also, New Orleans is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its romantic activities.

Vail is a great ski town for couples, as it has plenty to offer. 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.

New Orleans makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Couples who enjoy a lively evening, fun festivals, and exploring absolutely amazing restaurants will enjoy a visit to New Orleans. It has a festive and unique atmosphere any time of the year. There are also nice hotels and beautiful parks.

Is New Orleans or Vail Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Vail is a ski town with good options for backpackers and budget travelers. However, New Orleans is lacking in options for backpackers.

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

New Orleans is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. There are a handful of hostels in New Orleans that are good options for backpackers who want to meet other travelers.

Is New Orleans or Vail Better for Students?

New Orleans is a popular place for its student-friendly activities. However, Vail is not popular with students.

It's common for students to visit New Orleans. Students head to New Orleans to enjoy spring break and Mardi Gras.

Vail is not popular with students.

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

Vail is a ski town with good options for times when you don't have a car. However, New Orleans is lacking in options for its public transit.

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

Public transit is generally limited in New Orleans. The city has streetcar lines and bus lines that you can use, but you'll want to have a car if you want to venture outside of these main areas.

Is New Orleans or Vail a more walkable city?

Vail is a world-class destination for its walkability. Also, New Orleans is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its high level of walkability.

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

New Orleans is a somewhat walkable place. If you stick to the French Quarter and downtown areas, most things are walkable in New Orleans.

For even more information, also check out Is New Orleans Worth Visiting? and Is Vail Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Vail or New Orleans?

How long in New Orleans or Vail?

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

Families should spend more time in Vail than New Orleans. 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 New Orleans. 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 New Orleans 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 New Orleans or Vail?

Visitors enjoy the food and nightlife when visiting the destination of New Orleans. 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 with plenty to do. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Most people visit for the skiing. 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 New Orleans or Vail?

New Orleans is a fun place to experience. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. 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.

Vail might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. This ski town offers something for everyone. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

Five days in New Orleans or Vail?

You'll find live music and food around the energetic destination of New Orleans. This city offers something for everyone. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Even though Vail is a small town, it has plenty of activities to choose from. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. 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 New Orleans or Vail?

The fun-filled city of New Orleans offers food and nightlife. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. 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.

Vail is a small town where visitors enjoy the skiing and nightlife. Anyone can find something fun to do here. This is a popular place to visit for one week. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. Most people visit for the skiing. In one week, you should have a good grasp of this ski town.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Adventure Tours to United States of America, The Best Train & Rail Tours in United States of America, The Best Sightseeing Tours in United States of America, and The Best Cruise Tours and Packages in United States of America.

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

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

Which is Bigger, New Orleans or Vail?

New Orleans has a larger population, and is about 110 times larger than the population of Vail. When comparing the sizes of New Orleans 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.