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

Should you visit Orlando or Vail?

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

Should I visit Orlando or Vail? 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 entertaining, active, and family-friendly city. Visitors also love the theater, nightlife, and food.

Vail

Vail is a vibrant, upscale, and resort-filled ski town. Since it offers so much small town charm with a variety of activities, it attracts plenty of visitors, too. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It also has that perfectly quaint feel that is like no other place. Other reasons to visit include food, hiking, and shopping.

Orlando and Vail: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Orlando or Vail?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Vail. Although Orlando and Vail are popular destinations, Vail has more sights and attractions for tourists. Vail is very popular for its skiing, nightlife, music, hiking, christmas markets, small town charm, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere, while Orlando attracts visitors for its theatre productions, food, and resorts. Orlando is famous for being the home of Walt Disney World, Universal Orlando, and many other theme parks and family-friendly activities. Vail is famous for its world-class skiing, charming mountain town atmosphere, and adventurous outdoor activities. It is also well known for The Vail Ski Resort.

How is Orlando different from Vail?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Orlando or Vail Better for Skiing?

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

If you're an avid snow skiier, Vail should be on your list. This ski town has produced its share of Olympians. Vail is the third largest ski resort in the US and it has 31 lifts and 195 runs. There are five different bowls that offer beautiful views.

Orlando is not a skiing destination.

Is Orlando or Vail Better for Theater?

Orlando is a popular place for its theatre productions. However, Vail is not a theatre destination.

If you have some extra time in Orlando, take in a show. 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.

Vail is not a theatre destination.

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

Orlando is a great city for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Vail is not as popular, but is still a nice ski town for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Orlando has a huge number of terrific restaurants. 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.

There are many up and coming restaurants in the Vail area. The town has a diverse sampling of restaurants that include different ethnic options as well as taverns with comfort food. It's easy to find mountain-friendly restaurants where you can refuel during your ski vacation.

Is Orlando or Vail Better for Nightlife?

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

Many people head to Vail for the nightlife scene. Happy Hours start early, and then the partying can go late into the night. There are bars, lounges, breweries and live music that keep the atmosphere light and offer entertainment after your long day on the slopes. Do keep in mind that many places close or dramatically reduce their hours during the off-peak fall and spring months.

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 Vail Better for Music?

Vail is a popular place for live music. However, Orlando is not a live music destination.

The music scene in Vail is active and vibrant. You can often find live music at Shakedown Bar, Bridge Street Bar, and the Red Lion.

Orlando is not a live music destination.

Is Orlando or Vail Better for Resorts?

Orlando is a must-visit destination for its luxury resorts. Also, Vail is not as popular, but is still a nice ski town for its resorts.

For the ultimate resort vacation, Orlando is a great choice. 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.

Vacationers can choose from a number of terrific resorts in Vail. Designed as a resort town, Vail offers great accommodation. Nice resorts include Four Seasons Resort and Residences, the Ritz Carlton Club, and the Grand Hyatt.

Is Orlando or Vail Better for Hiking?

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

Many visitors go to Vail for the hiking trails. During the warmer months, this resort town is surrounded by world-class hiking trails. You can enjoy the wildflowers, search for wildlife, or take in the sweeping mountain views. Popular hikes near Vail include Booth Falls, Davos Trail, and Shrine Ridge.

Orlando is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Orlando or Vail?

If you're looking to go shopping, Orlando and Vail both offer plenty of high quality 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.

Vail is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. The cobblestone streets are lined with boutiques and ski shops that sell everything from evening dresses to outdoor gear. It's easy to pop into the many shops around downtown Vail and find anything you might need.

Is Orlando or Vail Better for Christmas?

With various activities, both Orlando and Vail are first-rate 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.

Vail is a fantastic destination at Christmas. The town is a winter wonderland during the holidays. Check out the iconic Christmas tree lighting and wander through the fairytale streets.

Is Orlando or Vail Better for Christmas Markets?

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

Vail has a lively atmosphere around its Christmas markets. The town's Christmas Market is picturesque, and the perfect place to pick up some unique gifts.

Orlando does not offer Christmas markets.

Is Orlando or Vail Better for Families?

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Orlando or Vail.

As it has a large number of activities for kids, Orlando is a very family-friendly destination. 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.

Vail is one of the most popular family destinations. With its world class skiing, rock climbing, ice skating, and ice cream, kids love this ski resort. The resort town has two terrain parks - Golden Peak and Avanti. Avanti is perfect for kids. It has small jumps, wide rails, and kid-friendly amenities. Golden Peak is designed for more advanced athletes. Vail also has nice beginner slopes that are great for kids.

Is Orlando or Vail Better for Couples?

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

Vail makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. Couples who enjoy skiing and outdoor adventure will appreciate everything that this ski town has to offer. There are nice restaurants, beautiful gardens, and plenty of romantic activities to choose from.

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 Vail Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Vail is a popular place for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Orlando is not a good destination for backpackers.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Vail. This ski town isn't completely closed off to budget travelers as there are a couple of hostels around town.

Orlando is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. It's not exactly a backpacker destination, but there are a surprising number of cheap motels that aren't affiliated with the major parks.

Is Orlando or Vail Better for Students?

Orlando is a popular place for its student-friendly activities. However, Vail is not popular with students.

It's common for students to visit Orlando. 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.

Vail is not popular with students.

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

Vail 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 Vail offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There is a free bus service through the area.

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 Vail a more walkable city?

Vail is renowned for its walkability. However, Orlando is not a good destination for its high level of walkability.

Vail is a very easy ski town to get around on foot. The main downtown is pedestrian-only and perfect for popping in shops and restaurants.

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 Vail Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Vail or Orlando?

How long in Orlando or Vail?

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

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Vail 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 Vail.

One day in Orlando or Vail?

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the destination of Orlando. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

Vail 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 skiing. 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 Vail?

Orlando is a fun place to experience. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Vail 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 skiing. 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 Vail?

You'll find theater and nightlife around the active destination of Orlando. This city offers something for everyone. It's also a relaxing resort destination. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

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

A week in Orlando or Vail?

The active city of Orlando offers nightlife and food. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. One week 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Vail. Vail is a small town where visitors enjoy the nightlife and live music. One reason most visitors come is for the skiing. It's also a relaxing resort destination. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one week here.

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 Vail, 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 Vail Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Orlando or Vail?

Orlando has a larger population, and is about 50 times larger than the population of Vail. When comparing the sizes of Orlando and Vail, 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.