A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Newport vs. Sedona for Couples, Attractions, Food, and Old Town

Should you visit Newport or Sedona?

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

Which city is more affordable and which is best for your travel style? If you're trying to figure out where to go next, comparing the travel costs between Newport and Sedona can help you decide which place is right for you.

Newport

Newport is a charming, coastal, and seaside town. With fun activities and sights, this is a small town worth visiting. It's a beautiful place to visit, too. Visitors also love the beaches, shopping, and museums.

Sedona

Sedona is a dramatic, scenic, and striking town. It offers plenty of small town charm along with sights and activities, too. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. It's also popular because of the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Newport and Sedona: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Popular beach
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with backpackers
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Nice resorts
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Small town charm
  • Impressive beauty


Is there more to do in Newport or Sedona?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Newport. Although Newport and Sedona are both popular with visitors, Newport has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Newport is more popular for its museums, beaches, and historical sights, while Sedona is known for its resorts, hiking, shopping, small town charm, and impressive beauty. Newport is popular for its sailing regattas, its mansions along Bellevue Avenue, and its maritime history. It is also home to Thames Street. Sedona is popular for its stargazing, desert setting, and yoga retreats.

How is Newport different from Sedona?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Newport or Sedona?

Newport
Sedona

Newport is great for its historical sights. Also, Sedona is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its sights and museums.

Newport offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. The historic mansions and local museums educate visitors on the town's maritime past and colonial roots. Some of the more popular places to visit include The Breakers, The Elms Mansion, The Marble House, and Chateau-sur-mer Mansion.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Sedona. The Sedona Heritage Museum offers a glimpse into the history and culture of the area. There are also many galleries around town.


Is the Food Better in Newport or Sedona? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Newport
Sedona

Local dishes at restaurants are fun to try in both Newport and Sedona.

Newport has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. Find a waterfront restaurant and enjoy fresh seafood and a charming atmosphere. Many restaurants are influenced by the town's Portuguese and Irish roots. You'll find classic pubs as well as brunch cafes and traditional taverns.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Sedona makes for a great culinary experience. It's grown into a foodie destination with local restaurants that pride themselves on using local ingredients. Mexican food is common but you'll also find cafes, classic American food, and other international options.

Is Newport or Sedona Better for Nightlife?

Newport
Sedona

The good nightlife scene is relatively similar in Newport and Sedona.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Newport. There's a lively atmosphere in the evening with many pubs, taverns, and bars that keep the energy high.

Sedona has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. There are bars, live music venues, and even a casino in town. Breweries are popular and there are also upscale wine bars.

Is Newport or Sedona Better for Resorts?

Newport
Sedona

Sedona is a very popular place for its luxury resorts. However, Newport is not a resort destination.

Vacationers can choose from a number of terrific resorts in Sedona. Upscale resorts with spas, pools, and other amenities offer the perfect backdrop for a desert vacation.

Newport is not a resort destination.


Is Newport or Sedona Better for Beaches?

Newport
Sedona

Newport is great for the beache. However, Sedona is not a beach destination.

Newport is considered a top beach destination. Tucked in along the rocky coastline are many beautiful sandy beaches. You'll find popular and active beaches where you can lounge in a chair and people watch, as well as more secluded spots where you can enjoy a more peaceful setting. The largest beach is Easton's Beach (also known as First Beach). Surfers and boaters enjoy Sachuest Beach (or Second Beach), and a less popular, but very rewarding beach is also King Park Beach.

Sedona is not a beach destination.

Is Newport or Sedona Better for its Old Town?

Newport
Sedona

Newport is great for its old town. Also, Sedona is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its historic old town charm.

Many visitors explore the old town while visiting Newport. The Historic District is filled with colonial buildings and impressive mansions. There are cobblestone streets and a charming loop through the town's Old Quarter.

Sedona offers a nice historic old town area. Traditional architecture and historic charm give downtown Sedona a lot of character.

Is Newport or Sedona Better for Hiking?

Newport
Sedona

Sedona is a very popular place for its hiking trails. However, Newport is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors explore the nearby hiking trails while visiting Sedona. It's red rock cliffs offer the perfect setting for dramatic hikes and breathtaking views. The colors are most impressive at sunrise and sunset and some of the most famous landmarks include Airport Mesa, Cathedral Rock, Bell Rock and Boynton Canyon.

Newport is not a hiking destination.


Is the Shopping Better in Newport or Sedona?

Newport
Sedona

Sedona is terrific for its shopping areas. Also, Newport is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for shopping.

Many people travel to Sedona specifically to go shopping. It's filled with local artisan shops and art galleries that highlight the region's beauty. Head to Uptown Sedona for some of the best boutiques. You should also check out the Tlaquepaque Arts and Crafts Village, the Sedona Art Center, and Hozho Distinctive Shops and Galleries.

Newport is an extremely popular place for shoppers. Walk along the charming cobblestone streets and pop in the many local boutiques and shops.

Is Newport or Sedona Better for Families?

Newport
Sedona

You'll find great kid-friendly activities in either Newport or Sedona.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Newport. For an educational and interactive experience, head to Save The Bay Exploration Center & Aquarium. The Norman Bird Sanctuary also has a lot of land and places to explore. Kids will enjoy a visit to the beach or running around Breton Point State Park as well. On a rainy day, Ryans Family Amusements is the perfect way to pass some time.

Sedona is a very family-friendly place to visit. There are impressive parks and fun outdoor activities for the whole family. Head to Slide Rock State Park where your kids can enjoy a natural waterslide. There's also the Out of Africa Wildlife Zoo as well as a canyon railroad.

Is Newport or Sedona Better for Couples?

Newport
Sedona

Both Newport and Sedona are world-class destinations to visit as a couple.

For those traveling as a couple, Newport has plenty to offer. It's a coastal town with a lot of charm that makes for a perfect romantic escape. Enjoy dining and shopping along Thames Street or take a walk along the coast. There are many local restaurants and evening activities for couples as well.

Sedona has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. Stargazing in the evening or picnicking in a park during the day. There are countless romantic activities that couples can enjoy. The area is filled with striking natural beauty that is at its best during sunset. Couples will also enjoy fine dining and a variety of outdoor activities.


Is Newport or Sedona Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Newport
Sedona

Sedona is very good for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Newport is lacking in good options for backpackers.

Sedona is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. You'll find campgrounds, RV parks, and motels in the area, but no real hostels.

Newport is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. It's a beautiful town, but accommodation tends to be expensive and there aren't any hostels to attract the budget crowd.

Is Newport or Sedona Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Newport
Sedona

Newport is a popular place for times when you don't have a car. However, Sedona is not a good destination for its public transit.

While Newport offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There are buses operated by RIPTA. You can visit most of the attractions in the downtown area by catching a ride on one of the classic green and gold hybrid trolley buses.

Public transit is generally limited in Sedona. Verde Shuttle offers shuttle routes through town.

Is Newport or Sedona a more walkable city?

Newport
Sedona

Newport is great for its high level of walkability. Also, Sedona is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its ease of walking around.

Newport is a very walkable town. The town's downtown are compact and fun to explore on foot. There is a nice concentration of shops, restaurants, hotels and sights.

Sedona is a somewhat walkable town. If you stay in Uptown Sedona, then the area is walkable, but if you're planning to stay further away then you'll need to have a car.


For even more information, also check out Is Newport Worth Visiting? and Is Sedona Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Sedona or Newport?

How long in Newport or Sedona?

In either Newport or Sedona, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. In our opinion, Newport has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Newport than Sedona. In general, 2-5 days is a good amount of time for Newport, and 3-5 days is enough time in Sedona.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Sedona than Newport 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 Sedona.


  • How many days in Newport or Sedona? Ideal Length of Stay
    Newport 2-5 
    Sedona 3-5

One day in Newport or Sedona?

Many travelers enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the destination of Newport. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

Sedona is a small town with plenty to do. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. One reason most visitors come is for the shopping. This town offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

A weekend in Newport or Sedona?

Newport is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Sedona might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One reason most visitors come is for the shopping. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

Five days in Newport or Sedona?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Newport. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. With all of its activities, you can easily fill five days here. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Sedona is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Sedona has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.


A week in Newport or Sedona?

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the historical destination of Newport. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Sedona. Since Sedona is a small town, it's easily explored when your time is limited. One reason most visitors come is for the shopping. It's also a relaxing resort destination. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Historical Tours in United States of America, The Best 10-Day Tours in United States of America, The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in United States of America, and The Best 2-Week Tours in United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Sedona or Newport?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Newport is $159, while the average daily cost in Sedona is $165. 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 Newport and Sedona in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Newport $92
    Sedona $93
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Newport $184
    Sedona $186
Compare Hotels in Newport and Sedona

Looking for a hotel in Newport or Sedona? 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 Newport


Hotels in Sedona


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: Newport Hotel Prices and Sedona Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Newport $36
    Sedona $40

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Newport

Also for Newport, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Private Transfer from Newport Port to Boston Logan Airport (BOS) : $88
  • Private Transfer from Newport Cruise Port to Boston city hotels: $88
  • Private Transfer from Newport Port to Providence city Hotels: $61
  • Private Transfer from Newport Port to Providence Airport (PVD): $49

Is it cheaper to fly into Newport or Sedona?

Prices for flights to both Sedona and Newport 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
    Newport $45
    Sedona $48

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Newport

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

  • Newport Neighborhood Food Tour: $89

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Sedona

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

  • The VIP Experience, Chuck Wagon Dinner and Show Tickets: $119
  • Sedona/Flagstaff: Grand Canyon Day Trip with Dinner & Sunset: $241
  • Cooking class and candlelit dinner with a view: $251

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Newport $17
    Sedona $19

Tours and Activities in Newport

For Newport, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • Newport Ghosts: Seaside Hauntings and Hags Tour: $27
  • Afternoon Grand Tour | Gansett Cruises in Newport, RI: $38
  • Discover Newport's Grandeur: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $11
  • Downtown Westerly Ghost Tour: $30
  • Evening Voyage with Gansett Cruises in Newport, RI: $45
  • Historic Highlights with the Gilded Age Private Van Tour: $225
  • Lighthouse and Mimosa Cruise of Narragansett Bay from Newport: $42
  • Morning Mimosa Cruise with Gansett Cruises in Newport, RI: $38
  • Morning Mimosa Sightseeing Sail on Schooner Madeleine in Newport: $45
  • Newport Afternoon Sightseeing Sail on Classic Sailboat: $45
  • Newport Beach Private Tour & Whale Watching Cruise: $395
  • Newport Cliff Walk & Ocean Drive Self-Guided Tours Bundle: $14

Typical Entertainment Prices in Sedona

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


  • Red Rock Fantasy Light Show (for 2)
    $10

Tours and Activities in Sedona

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

  • Private 4-Hour Sedona Spectacular Journey and Vortex Tour: $289
  • Sedona Soul Tour with Shamanic Guide: $295
  • 3-Hour Sedona Spirit Journey and Vortex Tour : $222
  • Amitabha Stupa and Peace Park Sedona, Arizona Experience: $300
  • Antelope Canyon X and Horseshoe Bend Scenic Tour from Sedona & Flagstaff: $285
  • Antelope Canyon and Horseshoe Bend Small-Group Tour from Sedona or Flagstaff: $285
  • Antelope Canyon and Horseshoe Bend Tour from Sedona: $285
  • Antelope Slot Canyon and Horseshoe Bend Day Tour from Sedona: $285
  • Best Sightseeing tour in Sedona Vortex and THE CITY VIP : $164
  • Best UFO Tour of Sedona: $110
  • Chuck Wagon Supper & Western Stage Show at Blazin' M Ranch Ticket: $74
  • Colorado Plateau on 4x4: 2-Hour Tour from Sedona: $150

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Newport $14
    Sedona $13

Sample the Local Flavors in Sedona

Also in Sedona, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • Elevated Social Wine Tours of Sedona's Vineyards : $85
  • Bliss Sedona’s Most Luxurious Wine Tour with Lunch Included: $115
  • All inclusive Sedona Join in Wine Tour 200+ 5 star reviews!: $179
  • Tastings Included! EXPRESS PRIVATE ELEVATED WINE TOUR: $199
  • Pedal and Paddle Wine Tour in Arizona: $235
  • Private Wine Tour in Sedona, Arizona: $295


When comparing the travel costs between Newport and Sedona, we can see that Sedona 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 Newport Expensive? and Is Sedona Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Newport or Sedona?

Newport has a larger population, and is about 3 times larger than the population of Sedona. When comparing the sizes of Newport and Sedona, 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.