A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Orlando vs. Aspen for Food, Resorts, Families, and Nightlife

Should you visit Orlando or Aspen?

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

Should I visit Orlando or Aspen? 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.

Orlando

Orlando is a active, family-friendly, and entertaining city. Other popular activities here include shopping, theater, and nightlife.

Aspen

Aspen is a vibrant, artsy, and outdoorsy ski town. With plenty of activities and sights, this is a small town worth visiting. 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.

Orlando and Aspen: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Orlando or Aspen?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Aspen than Orlando, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Aspen is better known for its skiing, food, nightlife, music, hiking, christmas markets, small town charm, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere, while Orlando is more popular for its theatre productions and resorts. Orlando is more touristy than Aspen and is popular for being the home of Walt Disney World, Universal Orlando, and many other theme parks and family-friendly activities. Aspen is well known for its world-class skiing, many food, film, and music festivals, and its stunning mountain hikes. Also, Aspen is famous for The Maroon Bells.

How is Orlando different from Aspen?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Orlando or Aspen Better for Skiing?

Aspen is renowned for skiing. However, Orlando is not a skiing destination.

If you're an avid snow skiier, Aspen should be on your list. 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.

Orlando is not a skiing destination.

Is Orlando or Aspen Better for Theater?

Orlando is a city with good options for its shows and theatre. However, Aspen is not a theatre destination.

With some theater and performance venues, you might want to see a show in Orlando. The city has a number of local theaters that are fun to explore. As home to Disney World and Universal Studios, there are also a number of shows available that are affiliated with the parks.

Aspen is not a theatre destination.

Is the Food Better in Orlando or Aspen? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Aspen is renowned for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Orlando is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its local cuisine and restaurants.

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.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Orlando. There are a diversity of restaurants on the Disney grounds and nearby. You'll also find many restaurants at Universal CityWalk and Disney Springs. Food can be expensive, and the quality can vary dramatically. Many people enjoy going to dinner shows as well. Restaurants can be challenging also, as reservations must be made months in advance.

Is Orlando or Aspen Better for Nightlife?

Aspen is great for nightlife. Also, Orlando is not as popular, but is still a nice city for nightlife and partying.

Many people head to Aspen for the nightlife scene. 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.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Orlando. If you need a break from the kids, you'll find some of the best nightlife around Orlando at Disney Springs, Wall Street Plaza and Universal CityWalk.

Is Orlando or Aspen Better for Music?

Aspen is great for live music. However, Orlando is not a live music destination.

The music scene in Aspen draws a good crowd. Popular music venues in town include Silver City Mountain Saloon and Belly Up Aspen.

Orlando is not a live music destination.

Is Orlando or Aspen Better for Resorts?

Orlando is renowned for its resorts. Also, Aspen is still popular, but not quite as popular for its luxury resorts.

Orlando is a world class resort vacation destination. Disney World is famous for its many iconic resorts. Some of the most popular are the Animal Kingdom Lodge, Port Orleans Resort, and the Grand Floridian Resort. There are also many resorts that aren't affiliated with the major theme parks. These tend to be more affordable, but transportation options to and from the park are limited. You'll also miss out on the perks that come with staying at a theme park resort.

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.

Is Orlando or Aspen Better for Hiking?

Aspen is great for hiking. However, Orlando is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors go to Aspen for the hiking trails. 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.

Orlando is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Orlando or Aspen?

If you're looking to go shopping, Orlando and Aspen both offer plenty of excellent spots.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Orlando. Shopping is a dream for any Disney enthusiast. There are countless malls and shops, both on and off the Disney grounds, that sell all of the Disney paraphernalia. Disney Springs and Universal CityWalk are the most famous areas. During the evenings, these areas can be very crowded, but during the day they're less popular as most people are at the theme parks.

Aspen is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. There are many great local shops and art galleries where you can pick interesting items or fine art.

Is Orlando or Aspen Better for Christmas?

With various activities, both Orlando and Aspen are terrific places to visit during Christmas.

With so many activities, Orlando is a top place to visit during Christmas. Christmas at Disney World is lots of fun. There are decorations and all kinds of seasonal activities around town.

Aspen is a fantastic destination at Christmas. There are a number of beautiful activities that will bring the holiday season to life in the town.

Is Orlando or Aspen Better for Christmas Markets?

Aspen is great for visiting Christmas markets. However, Orlando does not offer Christmas markets.

Aspen has a lively atmosphere around its Christmas markets. The town has a charming Christmas market that is fun to explore and has around 40 vendors.

Orlando does not offer Christmas markets.

Is Orlando or Aspen Better for Families?

Orlando is renowned for its family-friendly activities. Also, Aspen is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

Orlando is an extremely popular city to visit for families. Known as a theme park capital, here you'll find the iconic Disney World, as well as Universal Studios, SeaWorld and many more. While most people spend their vacation at the Disney or Universal resorts, there is also an endless supply of less mainstream parks and activities in the area.

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 Orlando or Aspen Better for Couples?

Aspen is great for romance. Also, Orlando is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its romantic activities.

Aspen is a great ski town 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.

Orlando makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. While most people visit the area with family, there is a niche crowd that enjoys honeymooning or vacationing here as a couple. There are many beautiful restaurants and interesting activities that couples can enjoy together. This is the perfect trip for fun loving couples who don't take themselves to seriously.

Is Orlando or Aspen Better for Students?

Orlando is a city with good options for students. However, Aspen is not popular with students.

Orlando is popular with students. Most people don't think about education when they think about Orlando, but there are actually a diversity of internships and opportunities for students to learn in a fun setting.

Aspen is not popular with students.

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

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

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

Public transit is generally limited in Orlando. If you're staying at a Disney Property, there is excellent transportation around the complex, but otherwise, a car is essential.

Is Orlando or Aspen a more walkable city?

Aspen is great for its walkability. However, Orlando is not a good destination for its high level of walkability.

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.

Orlando is not a walkable city. The city is sprawling, so unless you stay on the Disney grounds, it's best to rent a car.

For even more information, also check out Is Orlando Worth Visiting? and Is Aspen Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Aspen or Orlando?

How long in Orlando or Aspen?

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

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Aspen than Orlando 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 Aspen.

One day in Orlando or Aspen?

In Orlando, many people enjoy the shopping and theater that this family-friendly destination offers. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. 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.

Aspen is a small town with plenty to do. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. This ski 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 Orlando or Aspen?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Orlando. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. 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.

Aspen 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. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

Five days in Orlando or Aspen?

Orlando is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the destination of Orlando. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

Aspen 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 Aspen has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

A week in Orlando or Aspen?

You'll find food and shopping around the family-friendly destination of Orlando. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Aspen. Since Aspen is a small town, it's easily explored when your time is limited. 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 One Week (7-Day) Tours in United States of America, The Best 2-Week Tours in United States of America, The Best 3-Week Tours in United States of America, and The Best Bicycle Tours in United States of America.

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

Which is Bigger, Orlando or Aspen?

Orlando has a larger population, and is about 40 times larger than the population of Aspen. When comparing the sizes of Orlando 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.