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

Should you visit New York City or Flagstaff?

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 Flagstaff. 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.

Flagstaff

Flagstaff is a picturesque, active, and adventurous city. It's a gorgeous place to visit. Other reasons to visit include food, hiking, and shopping.

New York City and Flagstaff: Pros and Cons

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

You'll generally find more things to do in New York City than Flagstaff. New York City is bigger than Flagstaff, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. New York City is better known for its museums, theatre productions, food, nightlife, music, shopping, christmas markets, and big city activities, while Flagstaff is more popular for its hiking. New York City is more touristy than Flagstaff 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. Flagstaff is well known for its nearby craters and volcanic caves as well as its location along the historic Route 66.

How is New York City different from Flagstaff?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

New York City is a must-visit destination for its museums and landmarks. Also, Flagstaff is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historical sights.

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.

Flagstaff is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. Lowell Observatory is a highlight for many visitors, especially those who are fascinated by space. There's also the Museum of Northern Arizona, the Pioneer Museum, and Fort Tuthill Military History Museum.

Is New York City or Flagstaff Better for Theater?

New York City is a must-visit destination for its shows and theatre. However, Flagstaff 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.

Flagstaff is not a theatre destination.

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

New York City is a must-visit destination for its restaurant scene. Also, Flagstaff is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

Many restaurants in New York City have been singled out for their culinary prowess. 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.

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in Flagstaff. The food scene is diverse and growing. There's a focus on local recipes and ingredients. You'll also find many casual and family-friendly restaurants. American cuisine is common, but you'll also find burritos, Indian curries, and frittatas.

Is New York City or Flagstaff Better for Nightlife?

New York City is a must-visit destination for its evening party scene. Also, Flagstaff is still popular, but not quite as popular for nightlife.

New York City is a world class party destination. 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.

If you're looking for night time activities Flagstaff has a few options to choose from. You'll find a range of bars and cocktail lounges around town that come to life in the evening hours.

Is New York City or Flagstaff Better for Music?

New York City is a must-visit destination for its music scene. However, Flagstaff is not a live music destination.

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.

Flagstaff is not a live music destination.

Is New York City or Flagstaff Better for Hiking?

Flagstaff is a must-visit destination for its hiking trails. However, New York City is not a hiking destination.

Flagstaff is well-known for its hiking and trekking. Nearby you'll find world class hikes through surreal landscapes and diverse environments. The area is filled with desert landscapes and varied rock formations that are best explored on foot. Trails range in length and skill level, but whatever your ability, the hiking in the area is among the best.

New York City is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in New York City or Flagstaff?

New York City is a must-visit destination for its shopping areas. Also, Flagstaff 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.

Plenty of visitors enjoy shopping while in Flagstaff. Located along historic Route 66, you'll find many shops that capture the city's history, particularly in the Southside Historic District. The town also has farmer's markets as well as shopping centers and large malls.

Is New York City or Flagstaff Better for Christmas?

New York City is a must-visit destination for its Christmas activities. However, Flagstaff does not offer Christmas activities.

During Christmas, New York City is not to be missed. 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.

Flagstaff does not offer Christmas activities.

Is New York City or Flagstaff Better for Christmas Markets?

New York City is well known for its Christmas markets. However, Flagstaff does not offer Christmas markets.

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.

Flagstaff does not offer Christmas markets.

Is New York City or Flagstaff Better for Families?

Both New York City and Flagstaff are very good family-friendly destinations.

New York City is a very family-friendly destination. 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.

Flagstaff is a very kid-friendly city. The city is filled with outdoor activities for kids like ropes courses and adventure parks. Kids will also enjoy climbing around the Lava River Cave, visiting Sunset Crater Volcano National Monument, or hiking through the many diverse landscapes in the area. There are also museums that educate visitors on the city's history as well as Lowell Observatory, which will intrigue all the space enthusiasts among us.

Is New York City or Flagstaff Better for Couples?

New York City is a must-visit destination for couples. Also, Flagstaff 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.

Flagstaff is a nice destination for couples. Hiking and outdoor adventure sports make this city a good destination for couples who enjoy active living. There are many parks that you can visit as well as hiking trails and unique natural settings.

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

New York City and Flagstaff are both very good destinations for backpackers.

New York City is very popular with the backpacker crowd. 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.

Flagstaff is a great city to visit for backpackers. There are campgrounds nearby as well as tons of nature parks and countless hiking trails in the area.

Is New York City or Flagstaff Better for Students?

New York City is a must-visit destination for students. However, Flagstaff 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.

Flagstaff is not popular with students.

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

New York City is a must-visit destination for its public transit. However, Flagstaff is not particularly known for times when you don't have a car.

New York City has a world-class public transit network to take passengers everywhere in the city. 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.

Public transit is mostly limited in Flagstaff. The Mountain Line offers eight routes through town.

Is New York City or Flagstaff a more walkable city?

New York City is a must-visit destination for its ease of walking around. Also, Flagstaff 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.

Flagstaff is somewhat walkable. The downtown is compact and walkable, but you'll really want to have a car to explore the nearby hiking trails and natural areas.

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

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

How long in New York City or Flagstaff?

It's fun to spend time in either New York City or Flagstaff. Generally, people tend to spend more time in New York City due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for New York City, and 2-4 days is enough time in Flagstaff.

Families should spend more time in New York City than Flagstaff. 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 Flagstaff. 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 Flagstaff 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 Flagstaff?

People visit New York City because there is so much to do. 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.

Many travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the active destination of Flagstaff. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. Don't miss the hiking, as that's what most people do. 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 Flagstaff?

People visit New York City because there is so much to do. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Flagstaff. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. Don't miss the hiking, as that's what most people do. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. A weekend is usually enough time to experience most activities.

Five days in New York City or Flagstaff?

People visit New York City because there is so much to do. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this city makes for a great vacation. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer.

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the picturesque destination of Flagstaff. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Five days 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.

A week in New York City or Flagstaff?

New York City is a popular choice for travelers. One week here is typical. While some people choose to spend more or less time in New York City, one week is sufficent for most. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

You'll find food and shopping around the city of Flagstaff. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. 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 we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between New York City and Flagstaff, we can see that New York City is more expensive. And not only is Flagstaff much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Flagstaff would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Flagstaff 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 New York City would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in New York City than you might in Flagstaff.

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 Flagstaff Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, New York City or Flagstaff?

New York City has a larger population, and is about 140 times larger than the population of Flagstaff. When comparing the sizes of New York City and Flagstaff, 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.