A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Norfolk vs. Beaver Creek for Families, Food, Couples, and Nightlife

Should you visit Norfolk or Beaver Creek?

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

Should I visit Norfolk or Beaver Creek? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

Norfolk

Norfolk is a blue collar, maritime, and authentic city. Other reasons to visit include museums, nightlife, and food.

Beaver Creek

Beaver Creek is a charming, active, and adventurous town. It's also known for hiking, shopping, and skiing.

Norfolk and Beaver Creek: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
Things to Consider
  • Less family-friendly
  • Less popular with couples
  • Less popular with backpackers
  • Less walkable
Pros
  • Popular for skiing
  • Nice resorts
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Very walkable
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less popular with backpackers


Is there more to do in Norfolk or Beaver Creek?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Beaver Creek. Although Norfolk and Beaver Creek are both popular with visitors, Beaver Creek has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Beaver Creek is more popular for its skiing, theatre productions, food, resorts, and hiking, while Norfolk is known for its museums and nightlife. Beaver Creek is more touristy than Norfolk and is popular for its skiing and charming atmosphere It is also home to Beaver Creek Golf Club. Norfolk is popular for its naval base and military presence.

How is Norfolk different from Beaver Creek?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Norfolk or Beaver Creek Better for Skiing?

Norfolk
Beaver Creek

Beaver Creek is a must-visit destination for winter skiing. However, Norfolk is not a skiing destination.

If you're an avid snow skiier, Beaver Creek should be on your list. Beaver Creek Ski Resort is a top ski destination with 26 lifts and 149 different trails. It climbs to an elevation of 11,440 feet and the village is filled with ski-in/ski-out accommodation. There's also an excellent ski school.

Norfolk is not a skiing destination.


Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Norfolk or Beaver Creek?

Norfolk
Beaver Creek

Norfolk is a nice place to visit for its historical sights. However, Beaver Creek does not have museums and landmarks.

Norfolk is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. There are some interesting museums in town like the Chrysler Museum, the Hampton Roads Naval Museum, and the Norfolk Police and Fire Museum. You should also check out the Nauticus and the Battleship Wisconsin.

Beaver Creek does not have museums and landmarks.

Is Norfolk or Beaver Creek Better for Theater?

Norfolk
Beaver Creek

Beaver Creek is not so good for theatre. However, Norfolk is not a theatre destination.

Beaver Creek has a few theater choices. There are a couple of art galleries around town.

Norfolk is not a theatre destination.

Is the Food Better in Norfolk or Beaver Creek? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Norfolk
Beaver Creek

Beaver Creek is a great destination for its restaurant scene. Also, Norfolk is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Beaver Creek makes for a great culinary experience. There are many great dining options where you can enjoy a meal after working up an appetite on the slopes. The cuisine has many mountain classics as well as fine dining and more casual restaurants.

Norfolk has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. You'll find a decent collection of restaurants in the downtown area. Food options include local seafood, brunch, casual eateries, and fine dining.


Is Norfolk or Beaver Creek Better for Nightlife?

Norfolk
Beaver Creek

Norfolk is a nice place to visit for nightlife. However, Beaver Creek is not known for nightlife and partying.

If you're looking for night time activities Norfolk has a few options to choose from. Downtown is where you'll find the most busy nightlife venues. The city has great breweries, and the live music scene has taken off. There are also lounges, dance clubs, and wine bars to choose from.

Most people don't head to Beaver Creek specifically for the nightlife scene, but you can find a few options. You won't find a wild nightlife scene, but most of the activities center around the Vilar Performing Arts Center.

Is Norfolk or Beaver Creek Better for Resorts?

Norfolk
Beaver Creek

Beaver Creek is a popular place for its resorts. However, Norfolk is not a resort destination.

Beaver Creek has a handful of resorts to choose from. There are many resorts in the area including the Westin and the Hyatt.

Norfolk is not a resort destination.

Is Norfolk or Beaver Creek Better for Hiking?

Norfolk
Beaver Creek

Beaver Creek is a great destination for its hiking experiences. However, Norfolk is not a hiking destination.

You'll find a nice variety of hiking trails around Beaver Creek. The surrounding countryside is filled with trails that take you through flowered meadows, along scenic ridgelines, and to the top of dramatic peaks. During the warmer months, hiking is a wonderful way to enjoy the area.

Norfolk is not a hiking destination.


Is the Shopping Better in Norfolk or Beaver Creek?

Norfolk
Beaver Creek

Shopping is a popular activity in both Beaver Creek and Norfolk.

Norfolk is a great destination for shopping. There's a mix of shopping malls, local boutiques, farmer's markets, and shopping centers around town.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Beaver Creek. The village has pedestrian streets that are lined with fashion boutiques, jewelry stores, sporting equipment stores, and art galleries.

Is Norfolk or Beaver Creek Better for Families?

Norfolk
Beaver Creek

Beaver Creek is a must-visit destination for its family-friendly activities. Also, Norfolk is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

As it has a large number of activities for kids, Beaver Creek is a very family-friendly destination. This is one of the most kid-friendly ski resorts in the country. There's a ski and snowboard school where kids can enjoy private or group lessons as well as other fun activities for kids. There are also many family-friendly restaurants in the area.

Norfolk offers lots of family activities. The Norfolk Zoo is always a hit with kids. You should also visit the USS Wisconsin which offers tours, as well as the Douglas MacArthur Memorial Museum.

Is Norfolk or Beaver Creek Better for Couples?

Norfolk
Beaver Creek

Beaver Creek is a great destination for romance. However, Norfolk is a city with minimal options for its romantic activities.

Couples visit Beaver Creek frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. There are romantic resorts nearby as well as great adventure sports, skiing, snowboarding, and a beautiful setting.

Most people don't think of Norfolk as a couple's destination. There are some nice hotels and several great parks and outdoor activities.


Is Norfolk or Beaver Creek Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Norfolk
Beaver Creek

Beaver Creek is a popular place for its public transit. However, Norfolk is a city with minimal options for times when you don't have a car.

You'll find some public transit in Beaver Creek, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There free transportation that's offered by Village Transportation.

Public transit is mostly limited in Norfolk. While there are buses, ferries, and even lightrail in the area, you really want to have a car to get around.

Is Norfolk or Beaver Creek a more walkable city?

Norfolk
Beaver Creek

Beaver Creek is a must-visit destination for its walkability. Also, Norfolk is still popular, but not quite as popular for its high level of walkability.

Getting around Beaver Creek on foot is easy. It's a quaint little village that is very walkable.

Norfolk is a somewhat walkable place. Downtown is the most walkable part of the city.

For even more information, also check out Is Norfolk Worth Visiting? and Is Beaver Creek Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Beaver Creek or Norfolk?

How long in Norfolk or Beaver Creek?

Both Norfolk and Beaver Creek have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Beaver Creek than in Norfolk. Usually, 1-2 days is a good amount of time for Norfolk, and 3-7 days is enough time in Beaver Creek.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Beaver Creek than Norfolk 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 Beaver Creek.


  • How many days in Norfolk or Beaver Creek? Ideal Length of Stay
    Norfolk 1-2 
    Beaver Creek 3-7

One day in Norfolk or Beaver Creek?

In Norfolk, many people enjoy the food and shopping that this maritime city offers. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. In one day, you should have a good grasp of this city.

In Beaver Creek, you'll find shopping and skiing. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. One reason most visitors come is for the skiing. 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 Norfolk or Beaver Creek?

Norfolk is a fun place to experience. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. So, a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

In Beaver Creek, you'll find skiing and food. 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 skiing. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

Five days in Norfolk or Beaver Creek?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the blue collar destination of Norfolk. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days.

Beaver Creek is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Beaver Creek has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

A week in Norfolk or Beaver Creek?

Norfolk is a popular place to visit. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Beaver Creek. In Beaver Creek, you'll find shopping and skiing. One reason most visitors come is for the skiing. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one week here.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 10-Day Tours in United States of America, The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in United States of America, The Best 2-Week Tours in United States of America, and The Best 3-Week Tours in United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Beaver Creek or Norfolk?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Norfolk is $166, while the average daily cost in Beaver Creek is $316. 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 Norfolk and Beaver Creek in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Norfolk $84
    Beaver Creek $203
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Norfolk $168
    Beaver Creek $406
Compare Hotels in Norfolk and Beaver Creek

Looking for a hotel in Norfolk or Beaver Creek? 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 Norfolk


Hotels in Beaver Creek


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: Norfolk Hotel Prices and Beaver Creek Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Norfolk $54
    Beaver Creek $30

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Norfolk

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Norfolk:

  • Bamville Transportation (Private & Airport Transfers): $275

Is it cheaper to fly into Norfolk or Beaver Creek?

Prices for flights to both Beaver Creek and Norfolk 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
    Norfolk $49
    Beaver Creek $85

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Norfolk

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Norfolk.

  • Norfolk Buffet Dinner Cruise : $101
  • Buffet Dinner Cruise: $101
  • Norfolk Father's Day Buffet Dinner Cruise: $126
  • Norfolk Mother's Day Signature Dinner Cruise: $169
  • Norfolk 4th of July Buffet Dinner Cruise: $182

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Norfolk $14
    Beaver Creek $53

Tours and Activities in Norfolk

Here are a few actual costs in Norfolk for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • Electric Bike Rental Downtown Norfolk (self guided tour) : $60
  • Experience the season with a scavenger hunt in Norfolk with Holly Jolly Hunt: $20
  • Neon District Contemporary Art Walking Tour: $32
  • Norfolk Buffet Brunch Cruise : $84
  • Norfolk Father's Day Buffet Brunch Cruise: $104
  • Elizabeth River Candlelit Buffet Lunch Cruise: $67
  • Elizabeth River Sunday Buffet Brunch Cruise: $95
  • Virginia Zoo & Battleship Wisconsin Combo Ticket: $38
  • Skip the Line: Virginia Living Museum Admission Ticket: $22

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Norfolk $10
    Beaver Creek $35


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

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