A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America New York City vs. Aspen for Food, Nightlife, Music, and Couples

Should you visit New York City or Aspen?

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

Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for New York City and Aspen. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.

New York City

New York City is a vibrant, energetic, and cosmopolitan city. Visitors will also find so much to do here because it's a large city with many sights and attractions. It offers plenty of beauty for visitors. Other popular activities here include food, shopping, and museums.

Aspen

Aspen is a vibrant, artsy, and outdoorsy ski town. It offers plenty of small town charm along with sights and activities, too. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. This is a quaint and attractive place to visit, too. Other reasons to visit include food, hiking, and shopping.

New York City and Aspen: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in New York City or Aspen?

Visitors will usually find more to do in New York City than Aspen, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. New York City is better known for its museums & sights, theatre productions, nightlife, music, shopping, and big city activities, while Aspen is more popular for its skiing, resorts, hiking, small town charm, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere. New York City is more touristy than Aspen and is popular for its high-reaching skyscrapers, iconic landmarks, world-class theater scene, and endless energy. Also, New York City is famous for The Statue of Liberty. Aspen is well known for its world-class skiing, many food, film, and music festivals, and its stunning mountain hikes.

How is New York City different from Aspen?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is New York City or Aspen Better for Skiing?

Aspen is a must-visit destination for skiing and snowboarding. However, New York City is not a skiing destination.

Aspen is a top destination for snow skiing, and it attracts visitors from around the world. Near the town, there are 4 separate ski resorts. In town you'll find Aspen Mountain, which is known for it's black-diamond runs. Aspen Highlands, a couple miles away, has a mix of slopes and is less crowded. Buttermilk attracts many freestyle skiers and Aspen Snowmass is considered one of the best family-friendly ski areas.

New York City is not a skiing destination.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in New York City or Aspen?

New York City is renowned for its museums and landmarks. However, Aspen does not have museums and landmarks.

You'll find many recognizable landmarks that put New York City on the map. The sights and museums around the city are too numerous to list, but some of the most famous include the Statue of Liberty, the Metropolitan Museum of Art, the Museum of Modern Art, Central Park, and the Empire State Building. This is a city that is filled with iconic landmarks and you could spend weeks here and still not see it all.

Aspen does not have museums and landmarks.

Is New York City or Aspen Better for Theater?

New York City is renowned for its shows and theatre. However, Aspen is not a theatre destination.

Visitors will find world class theater shows, plays, and musicals in New York City that are not to be missed. Visiting Broadway is a quintessential NYC experience. Whether you enjoy the theater or simply want to experience something new, seeing a Broadway show is a true bucket list activity.

Aspen is not a theatre destination.

Is the Food Better in New York City or Aspen? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Both New York City and Aspen offer a number of fantastic restaurants to choose from.

Eat your way through New York City, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. The city has a diverse variety of restaurants, with everything from local dives to Michelin star options. There are many neighborhoods that are notable for their ethnic cuisine, particularly Little Italy and Chinatown. Quintessential NYC dishes include NYC pizza, NYC hot dogs, bagels, and Chinese dim sum.

For foodies, Aspen is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. The town hosts many food festivals and there is a growing selection of diverse restaurants. In town you'll find cafes and restaurants that cater to both the local crowd and the travelers who flock to the area during peak seasons.

Is New York City or Aspen Better for Nightlife?

New York City is renowned for its evening party scene. Also, Aspen is still popular, but not quite as popular for nightlife.

New York City is a destination that you simply have to visit at least once for nightlife. Known as the city that never sleeps, you can be assured that NYC has some of the best nightlife in the world. There are world class bars and clubs, but also local venues that have a more relaxed atmosphere. Several famous clubs include Paul's Cocktail Lounge, Le Bain, and Avant Gardner.

The nightlife in Aspen has something for everybody. The people in Aspen know how to have a good time. The nightlife scene includes craft beer, live music, and dancing. There's a local vibe, particularly during the off-season times when the tourist crowds are less.

Is New York City or Aspen Better for Music?

New York City is renowned for its music scene. Also, Aspen is still popular, but not quite as popular for live music.

In New York City you'll find nightly musicians performing at a variety of venues. Popular music venues include Music Hall of Williamsburg, Radio City Music Hall, Beacon Theatre, and Forest Hills Stadium.

Aspen has a thriving music scene. Popular music venues in town include Silver City Mountain Saloon and Belly Up Aspen.

Is New York City or Aspen Better for Resorts?

Aspen is an excellent place to visit for its luxury resorts. However, New York City is not a resort destination.

There are plenty of resorts in Aspen to choose from. Popular resorts in the area include The Little Nell, Hotel Jerome, and St. Regis Aspen.

New York City is not a resort destination.

Is New York City or Aspen Better for Hiking?

Aspen is an excellent place to visit for its hiking trails. However, New York City is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors explore the nearby hiking trails while visiting Aspen. During the summer and fall seasons, hiking is a great way to explore Aspen's nearby beauty. Popular trails include the Ute Trail, the Lost Man Trail, and the famous Maroon Bells Scenic Trail.

New York City is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in New York City or Aspen?

New York City is renowned for its shopping areas. Also, Aspen is still popular, but not quite as popular for shopping.

New York City is a world class destination for shoppers. The shopping is as diverse as the city itself. Head for Fifth Avenue for high end shopping or check out any of the many street markets for local items. New York is known for its many flea markets where you can find vintage items at a good price. And if you're looking to pick up a souvenir shirt or knick knack, there are plenty of souvenir shops around town as well.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Aspen. There are many great local shops and art galleries where you can pick interesting items or fine art.

Is New York City or Aspen Better for Christmas?

New York City and Aspen are fantastic destinations to visit around the Christmas season.

Known for its popular Christmas activities, New York City draws large crowds. Christmas in the city is a quintessential experience. From the Christmas tree and ice skating at Rockefeller Center to seeing a live performance of the Nutcracker, everyone enjoys the holidays in New York.

Aspen is a world class destination for shoppers. There are a number of beautiful activities that will bring the holiday season to life in the town.

Is New York City or Aspen Better for Christmas Markets?

Visitors can find very good Christmas markets in both New York City and Aspen.

Many people head to New York City to see its Christmas markets. There are a number of Christmas markets that pop up around town during the holiday season. Nothing will get you more in the holiday spirit than wandering these unique venues.

Aspen has plenty of Christmas markets during the holiday season. The town has a charming Christmas market that is fun to explore and has around 40 vendors.

Is New York City or Aspen Better for Families?

New York City is a great destination for its family-friendly activities. Also, Aspen is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

New York City is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. The city has many activities for kids of all ages including world class museums, beautifully designed playgrounds, and theater shows designed just for young ones. There are many kid-friendly restaurants as well and older kids will enjoy visiting the iconic landmarks in this world-class city.

Aspen offers lots of family activities. Families that enjoy skiing together, hiking, rock climbing, and having adventures will enjoy a visit to this town. Aspen Mountain is not a great option for beginning skiers, but further away, Aspen Snowmass offers good beginner slopes.

Is New York City or Aspen Better for Couples?

New York City is renowned for couples. Also, Aspen is still popular, but not quite as popular for romance.

New York City is a great city for couples, as it has plenty to offer. From a beautiful carriage ride through Central Park, to a romantic river cruise at night, there is an endless list of unique activities that couples can enjoy in the city. Whether you're interested in theater, the arts, music, or nightlife, this city has it all.

Aspen is a great city if you're traveling as a couple. Aspen is both a popular ski destination as well as an established town. There are many great restaurants and activities that couples can enjoy and the setting is cute and very scenic, making it a beautiful and romantic destination.

Is New York City or Aspen Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

New York City is a great destination for backpackers. However, Aspen is a ski town with minimal options for backpackers and budget travelers.

New York City is a very popular city for backpackers and budget travelers. It isn't a particularly budget-friendly destination, but it does get its share of backpackers, so you'll find a nice list of hostels and affordable hangouts that are perfect for the backpacker crowd. This is probably one of the most popular cities for backpackers in the entire United States.

Aspen is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. Because it is both a town and a ski resort, there are a couple of more affordable accommodation options. Even so, this is an expensive destination that isn't always ideal for budget travelers.

Is New York City or Aspen Better for Students?

New York City is renowned for students. However, Aspen is not popular with students.

New York City is a very popular city for students. The city has a diverse population, and international students will feel right at home here exploring the city. There are also plenty of major universities including NYU, Columbia University, and Cornell University.

Aspen is not popular with students.

Is New York City or Aspen Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

New York City is renowned for its public transit. Also, Aspen is still popular, but not quite as popular for times when you don't have a car.

New York City has a great public transit system. The city has one of the largest subway systems in the world. There's also an elaborate bus system, ferry system, and yellow taxis all around town.

While Aspen offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There are several shuttle buses around the town.

Is New York City or Aspen a more walkable city?

New York City is renowned for its ease of walking around. Also, Aspen is still popular, but not quite as popular for its walkability.

Getting around New York City on foot is easy. The majority of the neighborhoods in Manhattan are very walkable and easy to explore on foot. Most people prefer not to drive here as it can be overwhelming and chaotic.

Aspen is very walkable. The town is compact enough that it can be explored on foot. If you're planning to head into the mountains to hike, you'll likely need a car.

For even more information, also check out Is New York City Worth Visiting? and Is Aspen Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Aspen or New York City?

How long in New York City or Aspen?

In either New York City or Aspen, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in New York City than Aspen because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for New York City, and 3-5 days is enough time in Aspen.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in New York City than Aspen 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 New York City.

One day in New York City or Aspen?

Each neighborhood in New York City has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

Even though Aspen is a small town, it has plenty of activities to choose from. It's also a relaxing resort destination. Your budget might influence how long you stay. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

A weekend in New York City or Aspen?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in New York City. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Aspen. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

Five days in New York City or Aspen?

New York City is a fun place to experience. Each neighborhood in New York City has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. This would be the perfect place to spend five days, as it has just the right amount of activities.

Aspen is a small town with plenty to do. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. This ski town offers a variety of activities to choose from. If you have five days, this is a great place to go. Five days is usually enough time to experience most activities.

A week in New York City or Aspen?

Each neighborhood in New York City has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. Plenty of people spend one week in the area when traveling. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is often enough time to do most activities.

Aspen is a small town, so you can explore the area with less time. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Tours Under $1000 in United States of America, The Best Luxury Tours to United States of America, The Best Tours for Seniors to United States of America, and The Best Contiki Tours to United States of America.

When comparing the travel costs between New York City and Aspen, we can see that New York City 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 New York City Expensive? and Is Aspen Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, New York City or Aspen?

New York City has a larger population, and is about 1390 times larger than the population of Aspen. When comparing the sizes of New York City and Aspen, 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.