A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Philadelphia vs. Denver for Attractions, Food, Nightlife, and Families

Should you visit Philadelphia or Denver?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Philadelphia or Denver, this travel comparison, which includes costs, can help. The overall cost of travel is usually a consideration when deciding where to go next, and the cost comparison down below can help you decide based on the average prices from other travelers along with your own travel budget.

Philadelphia

Philadelphia is a historic, cultural, and diverse city. Travelers will also find plenty of sights and attractions here, as it's a big city that attracts lots of visitors. Philadelphia is a beautiful place to visit, too. And you can't forget about the museums, theater, and nightlife. See Philadelphia travel costs.

Denver

Denver is a park-filled, suburban, and accessible city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. Visitors also love the nightlife, hiking, and shopping. See Denver travel costs.

Philadelphia and Denver: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Numerous theater shows
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Scenic old town
  • Popular at Christmas
  • Known for Christmas markets
  • Known for its beauty
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Very walkable
  • Big city activities
Pros
  • Popular for skiing
  • Active nightlife
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • Less popular for food
  • Less popular with backpackers
  • Less walkable


Is there more to do in Philadelphia or Denver?

You'll generally find more things to do in Philadelphia than Denver. Philadelphia is bigger than Denver, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Philadelphia is better known for its museums and attractions, theatre productions, food, nightlife, music, historical sights, shopping, christmas markets, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Denver is more popular for its skiing and hiking. Philadelphia is more touristy than Denver and is popular for its diverse population, large number of universities, great restaurant and market scene, and its role in American history. Also, Philadelphia is famous for The Liberty Bell. Denver is well known for serving as a gateway to the Rocky Mountains and the many national parks that are in the area.

How is Philadelphia different from Denver?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Philadelphia or Denver Better for Skiing?

Philadelphia
Denver

Denver is a nice place to visit for skiing and snowboarding. However, Philadelphia is not a skiing destination.

For winter sports and skiing, Denver is a great destination to visit. Although there's no skiing in the immediate area, there is a huge list of world class ski resorts within an hour or two of town. Two of the closest are Echo Mountain Resort and Loveland Ski Area.

Philadelphia is not a skiing destination.


Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Philadelphia or Denver?

Philadelphia
Denver

Philadelphia is renowned for its sights and museums. However, Denver is not a good city for its museums and history.

The museums, monuments, and landmarks in Philadelphia are among the most recognizable in the world. The city has a rich history with a number of museums and monuments. Popular sites around the city include the Liberty Bell, Independence Hall, the Philadelphia Museum of Art, and the National Museum of Jewish American History.

While most people don't head to Denver specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. Many people use Denver as a starting or ending point for their mountain and national park trip, but those who linger can visit some of the city's museums and sights. Popular museums include the Denver Museum of Nature and Science, the History Colorado Center, and the Forney Museum of Transportation.

Is Philadelphia or Denver Better for Theater?

Philadelphia
Denver

Philadelphia is a well-known place for its theatre productions. However, Denver is not a theatre destination.

Many visitors plan to see a show while visiting Philadelphia. There are major Broadway shows as well as smaller venues. Head to The Avenue of the Arts along Broad Street for a popular stretch of theaters.

Denver is not a theatre destination.

Is the Food Better in Philadelphia or Denver? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Philadelphia
Denver

Philadelphia is a well-known place for its local cuisine and restaurants. However, Denver is not a good city for its restaurants.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Philadelphia. It has grown into a well-recognized food destination. It's diversity of cultures and residents have influenced the restaurant scene and you'll find many great places to dine covering a number of international flavors. The city is famous for its Philly cheesesteak and roast pork sandwich. You can also grab some local favorites at Reading Terminal Market.

Denver may not make the list for most foodies, but you'll find what you need while you're in town. It's a pretty large city, so you'll find some nice local restaurants, but the foodie scene is still emerging in many neighborhoods. A number of restaurants offer outdoor seating, which is nice. You'll also find a growing selection of international restaurants. For something uniquely local, you should try the Bison steak and fried pickles.


Is Philadelphia or Denver Better for Nightlife?

Philadelphia
Denver

Philadelphia is a well-known place for nightlife and partying. Also, Denver is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its evening party scene.

Philadelphia offers plenty to do in the evening. The city's nightlife scene carries late into the evening with many rooftop and outdoor beer gardens. Most of the clubs and bars are found in the downtown area and you'll find places to dance, listen to live music, or sip a trendy cocktails.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Denver. The city has come a long way with its nightlife. There's a great craft beer scene and the downtown area has really come to life. Popular bars and clubs in town include the Grizzly Rose and 54Thirty Rooftop. Many places are concentrated in the Soco Nightlife District.

Is Philadelphia or Denver Better for Music?

Philadelphia
Denver

Philadelphia is a well-known place for its live music scene. However, Denver is not a live music destination.

The music scene in Philadelphia is very popular with diverse venues. The city's diverse music scene includes jazz, rock, and hip hop.

Denver is not a live music destination.

Is Philadelphia or Denver Better for its Old Town?

Philadelphia
Denver

Philadelphia is a nice place to visit for its old town. However, Denver does not have a historic old town.

Many people head to Philadelphia to see the old town. The Old City has a number of Colonial-era sites including Independence Hall, the Liberty Bell, the Betsy Ross House.

Denver does not have a historic old town.


Is Philadelphia or Denver Better for Hiking?

Philadelphia
Denver

Denver is a nice place to visit for its hiking trails. However, Philadelphia is not a hiking destination.

Denver has hiking trails worth exploring. The city is very close to many beautiful parks and hiking areas in the Rocky Mountains. It's not hard to make a day trip from town and enjoy some great hiking. Nice options include the Trading Post Trail in Red Rocks Mountain Park, Bergen Peak near Evergreen, and Chimney Gulch Trail near the town of Golden.

Philadelphia is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Philadelphia or Denver?

Philadelphia
Denver

Philadelphia is a well-known place for its shopping opportunities. Also, Denver is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its shopping areas.

Philadelphia is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. With all items tax-free, this city is a great place to shop. It has many boutique shops as well as name brand stores and shopping areas. For a local vibe, head to Reading Terminal Market.

Denver has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. The city has many outlet malls that budget shoppers appreciate. There are also weekend farmer's markets, boutique shopping areas, and all of the major chains that you'll find in most larger cities.

Is Philadelphia or Denver More Beautiful?

Philadelphia
Denver

Philadelphia is a nice place to visit for its scenery and beauty. However, Denver is not a destination known for its beauty.

Philadelphia is a beautiful place to visit, too. With its diverse neighborhoods and rich history, this city offers its own type of beauty.

Denver is not a destination known for its beauty.


Is Philadelphia or Denver Better for Families?

Philadelphia
Denver

Philadelphia is a well-known place for its family-friendly activities. Also, Denver is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

Philadelphia is a very kid-friendly city. The city has many museums and a fascinating history that is interesting to kids and adults alike. Popular activities include a zoo and Sesame Place. Kids also love the hands-on Please Touch Museum.

Denver is a family-friendly city. It is a family-friendly city with museums, playgrounds, and plenty of outdoor activities. There are also a few ropes courses near town that kids and adults alike will enjoy. Popular activities include the Denver Zoo, the Denver Museum of Nature and Science, and Children's Museum of Denver at Marsico Campus.

Is Philadelphia or Denver Better for Couples?

Philadelphia
Denver

Philadelphia and Denver are both notable to visit as a couple.

Philadelphia makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Like many large cities, it is a fun place to explore in the evening as a couple. This is also a great foodie destination with great markets, food trucks, and diverse restaurants that reflect the city's diverse population.

Denver is a good city for couples to visit. There are many beautiful and romantic outdoor activities in the area such as parks and botanical gardens. There are also spas, including the impressive Spa at the Brown Palace, as well as upscale restaurants and fun bars and clubs to explore.

Is Philadelphia or Denver Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Philadelphia
Denver

Philadelphia is a nice place to visit for backpackers. However, Denver is not a good city for backpackers and budget travelers.

It's common for backpackers to visit Philadelphia. There are a few good hostels for backpackers and budget travelers to choose from.

Denver is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. Some backpackers fly into Denver to begin their national park tour. There is a hostel or two around town, and if you leave town quickly you'll find campgrounds not far away.


Is Philadelphia or Denver Better for Students?

Philadelphia
Denver

Philadelphia is a well-known place for students. Also, Denver is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its student-friendly activities.

Philadelphia is a great city to visit as a student. With its many universities and diverse population, this city is a great place for international students.

Plenty of students visit Denver. There are a few students in the city, but there isn't a college town vibe that you'd get at other nearby university areas.

Is Philadelphia or Denver Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Philadelphia
Denver

Philadelphia is a well-known place for its public transit. Also, Denver is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for times when you don't have a car.

Philadelphia has some very good public transit options. The system includes a subway, trolleys, buses, and a commuter rail.

Denver has some public transit options. If you're not planning to leave town, the light rail and bus systems offer good access to much of Denver.

Is Philadelphia or Denver a more walkable city?

Philadelphia
Denver

Philadelphia is renowned for its high level of walkability. However, Denver is not a good city for its ease of walking around.

It is easy to get around Philadelphia on foot. The Old City is particularly walkable, as is Avenue of the Arts, and Rittenhouse Square.

Denver is not a very walkable city. While the downtown area is generally walkable, this is still a sprawling city where you'll really want to have a car to access areas outside of town.


For even more information, also check out Is Philadelphia Worth Visiting? and Is Denver Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Denver or Philadelphia?

How long in Philadelphia or Denver?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Philadelphia and Denver. In our opinion, Philadelphia has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Philadelphia than Denver. However, 2-3 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Philadelphia than Denver 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 Philadelphia.


  • How many days in Philadelphia or Denver? Ideal Length of Stay
    Philadelphia 2-3 
    Denver 2-3

One day in Philadelphia or Denver?

Philadelphia is a bustling city that offers something for everyone. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

In Denver, many people enjoy the nightlife and shopping that this park-filled city offers. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

A weekend in Philadelphia or Denver?

Philadelphia is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. Don't miss the museums, as that's what most people do. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Denver 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.

Five days in Philadelphia or Denver?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Philadelphia. Don't miss the museums, as that's what most people do. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

You'll find skiing and nightlife around the park-filled destination of Denver. 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.


A week in Philadelphia or Denver?

Travelers enjoy the museums and theater when visiting the cultural big city of Philadelphia. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

Denver 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.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Tours for Seniors to United States of America, The Best Contiki Tours to United States of America, The Best G Adventures Tours to United States of America, and The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Las Vegas.


Which place is cheaper, Denver or Philadelphia?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations. These travel costs come from the actual spending of real travelers.

  • Philadelphia Prices
    USA Prices
    Denver Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Philadelphia $224
    Denver $248

The average daily cost (per person) in Philadelphia is $224, while the average daily cost in Denver is $248. 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 Philadelphia and Denver in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Philadelphia $119
    Denver $87
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Philadelphia $238
    Denver $174
Compare Hotels in Philadelphia and Denver

Looking for a hotel in Philadelphia or Denver? 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 Philadelphia


Hotels in Denver


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: Philadelphia Hotel Prices and Denver Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Philadelphia $28
    Denver $101

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Philadelphia

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

  • Private Transfer: Philadelphia Airport PHL to Philadelphia in Business Car: $92
  • Private Transfer Philadephia to Philadelphia Airport PHL by Sedan: $94
  • Private transfer from PHL to Philadelphia Downtown: $130
  • Philadelphia Airport (PHL) to Philadelphia - Arrival Private Transfer: $143
  • Philadelphia to Philadelphia Airport (PHL) - Departure Private Transfer: $143
  • Private Transfer Philadelphia to Philadephia Airport PHL by SUV: $146
  • Private Transfer Philadephia Airport PHL to Philadelphia by SUV: $152
  • Minibus Private Transfer Philadelphia Airport PHL to Philadelphia: $273

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Denver

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Denver:

  • Private Transfer from Denver to Denver Airport DEN in Business Car: $104
  • Private Transfer Denver International Airport DEN to Denver City: $116
  • Private Transfer Denver Airport DEN to Hot Ski Resorts: $65
  • Private Round Trip Transfer Denver Airport DEN to Denver City: $231
  • Private One-way Transfer from Denver to Denver Airport: $168
  • Private One-way Transfer from Denver Airport to Denver: $168
  • Private One Way Transfer From and To Denver Colorado: $200
  • Private City Tour in Denver with Transfer: $140
  • Departure Private Transfer: Denver to Denver Airport DEN in Luxury Van: $131
  • Departure Private Transfer: Denver to Denver Airport DEN in Luxury SUV: $131
  • Departure Private Transfer: Denver to Denver Airport DEN in Business Car: $104
  • Denver hotel or address to Denver Airport (DEN) - Departure Private Transfer: $106

Is it cheaper to fly into Philadelphia or Denver?

Prices for flights to both Denver and Philadelphia 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
    Philadelphia $84
    Denver $73
Typical Food Prices in Philadelphia

For Philadelphia, here are some examples of average food and meal prices for travelers:


  • Casual Lunch (for 3)
    $27

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Philadelphia

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

  • Locals' Favorites Food Tour: $52
  • Best of Philly Food Tour: $55
  • Center City Philadelphia Food Tour with Reading Market : $59
  • 9th Street Italian Market Walking Food Tour: $61
  • Philadelphia's Delicious Donut Adventure & Walking Food Tour: $65
  • Philadelphia Secret Food Tour of Reading Market and Center City : $65
  • Flavors of Philly Food Tour: $65
  • Locals' Favorites Food Tour: $65
  • Handmade Gnocchi Cooking Class in Philadelphia: $75
  • Chef-Led Italian Market Food Tour: $75
  • Secret Food Tour: $82
  • Philadelphia Christmas Day Buffet Cruises Brunch or Dinner: $85

Typical Food Prices in Denver

Some typical examples of dining costs in Denver are as follows:


  • Sushi Dinner (for 2)
    $61

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Denver

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

  • Denver : Paella Cooking Class With Local Chef: $55
  • Denver : Hands-on Cooking Classes With Chef Kevin: $60
  • Arts District Walking Food Tour: $79
  • Mystery Puzzle Food Tour in Golden, CO: $80
  • Denver RiNo Arts District Food Tour: $80
  • Downtown Denver Food Tour: $80
  • The Dinner Detective Murder Mystery Dinner Show - Denver, CO: $88
  • Downtown Denver Walking Food Tour With Secret Food Tours: $99
  • RiNo Evening Food Tour with a Local Guide: $99
  • walking Secret Food Tour: $102

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Philadelphia $28
    Denver $52
Typical Entertainment Prices in Philadelphia

Below are a few sample prices from actual travelers for Philadelphia's activities, tours, and tickets:


  • Big Bus Tour (family of 3)
    $99

Tours and Activities in Philadelphia

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

  • Art and Controversy: An audio tour of Philadelphia's most infamous art scandals: $5.99
  • Philadelphia Italian Market Smartphone Guided Audio Walking Tour: $7.75
  • Philadelphia Haunted Ghost Smartphone Guided Audio Walking Tour: $7.75
  • Philadelphia 76ers Basketball Game Ticket: $8.62
  • Philadelphia Architecture: Discover Every American Style on a GPS Audio Tour: $9.99
  • Unique Scavenger Hunt Experience in Philadelphia by Operation City Quest: $10
  • Scavenger Hunt Adventure in Allentown by Wacky Walks: $10
  • Scavenger Hunt Adventure in Allentown: $10
  • The Road to Revolution: A Self-Guided Audio Tour in Philadelphia: $12
  • National Liberty Museum Entrance Ticket: $12
  • Philadelphia Scavenger Hunt and Sights Self Guided Tour: $13
  • Discover Fantastic Self-Guided Audio Tour: $15

Tours and Activities in Denver

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Denver are as follows:

  • 2 Hour LoDo Historic Walking Tour in Denver: $28
  • 3 Hour Private Walking Tour in Denver with Professional Guide: $221
  • Best of Denver Walking Tour: $27
  • Best of Highlights, Views & Local Favorites Bus Tour: $40
  • Bike and Booze Tour of RiNo & Downtown: $95
  • Breckenridge Ultimate Full Day Mountain Tour from Denver: $139
  • Capitol Hill Haunts: A Ghostly Walking Tour: $155
  • Colorado Gold Rush Mountain and Mine Half-Day Tour from Denver: $99
  • Colorado: Red Rocks, Dinosaur Tracks, & Gold Mine Tour: $169
  • Denver Art and Culture Odyssey: Private Walking Tour: $249
  • Denver City 2 Hour Walking Tour: $245
  • Denver City Highlights Tour: $39

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Philadelphia $21
    Denver $5.31

Sample the Local Flavors in Philadelphia

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

  • Ghosts, Boos, and Booze Haunted Pub Crawl: $36
  • Philly Ghosts Boos and Booze Haunted Pub Crawl: $39
  • Liberty History Tour Pub Crawl: $45
  • Guided Tour with Pub Crawl: $45
  • Half-Day Philadelphia's Brewery Bike Tour with Tastings: $100
  • Guided Craft Brewery Tours with a Snack: $120

Sample the Local Flavors in Denver

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

  • California Vs. Colorado Wine Tasting: $30
  • Downtown Denver Pub Crawl - Food & Drinks Included!: $35
  • Neighborhood Bar Crawl in RiNo Arts District (Denver): $35
  • Spirits & Spirits Haunted Pub Crawl: $36
  • Denver Street Art & Murals Tour + Brewery Visit/Beer Tasting: $39
  • Golden Ghosts & Spirits Haunted Pub Crawl: $45
  • Buds & Brews Cannabis Grow Tour and Brewery Visit: $67
  • Wild West Pub Crawl: $68


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


Which is Bigger, Philadelphia or Denver?

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