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

Should you visit Philadelphia or Flagstaff?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Philadelphia or Flagstaff, 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 cultural, diverse, and historic city. As it's a big city, visitors will find plenty to do, too. It offers plenty of beauty for visitors. Other popular activities here include food, shopping, and museums.

Flagstaff

Flagstaff is a active, adventurous , and picturesque city. It's a beautiful place to visit, too. Visitors also love the museums, nightlife, and food.

Philadelphia and Flagstaff: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Numerous theater shows
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Scenic old town
  • Popular at Christmas
  • Known for Christmas markets
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Good public transit
  • Very walkable
  • Big city activities
Pros
  • Active nightlife
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • Public transit not as usable
  • Less walkable


Is there more to do in Philadelphia or Flagstaff?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Philadelphia than Flagstaff, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Philadelphia is more popular for its museums, theatre productions, nightlife, music, historical sights, shopping, christmas markets, and big city activities, while Flagstaff is known for its hiking. Flagstaff is more touristy than Philadelphia and is popular for its nearby craters and volcanic caves as well as its location along the historic Route 66. Philadelphia is popular for its diverse population, large number of universities, great restaurant and market scene, and its role in American history. It is also home to The Liberty Bell.

How is Philadelphia different from Flagstaff?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Philadelphia
Flagstaff

Philadelphia is a must-visit destination for its museums and landmarks. Also, Flagstaff is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historical sights.

You'll find many recognizable landmarks that put Philadelphia on the map. 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.

Flagstaff is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. Lowell Observatory is a highlight for many visitors, especially those who are fascinated by space. There's also the Museum of Northern Arizona, the Pioneer Museum, and Fort Tuthill Military History Museum.


Is Philadelphia or Flagstaff Better for Theater?

Philadelphia
Flagstaff

Philadelphia is well known for its shows and theatre. However, Flagstaff is not a theatre destination.

Philadelphia attracts a wide-range of world-class performances. 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.

Flagstaff is not a theatre destination.

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

Philadelphia
Flagstaff

Both Philadelphia and Flagstaff offer a number of high quality restaurants to choose from.

Philadelphia has a huge number of terrific restaurants. 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.

Dining out in Flagstaff is an experience not to be missed. The food scene is diverse and growing. There's a focus on local recipes and ingredients. You'll also find many casual and family-friendly restaurants. American cuisine is common, but you'll also find burritos, Indian curries, and frittatas.

Is Philadelphia or Flagstaff Better for Nightlife?

Philadelphia
Flagstaff

Philadelphia is well known for its evening party scene. Also, Flagstaff is still popular, but not quite as popular for nightlife.

Philadelphia is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. 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.

If you're looking for night time activities Flagstaff has a few options to choose from. You'll find a range of bars and cocktail lounges around town that come to life in the evening hours.


Is Philadelphia or Flagstaff Better for Music?

Philadelphia
Flagstaff

Philadelphia is well known for its music scene. However, Flagstaff is not a live music destination.

Music is a popular form of entertainment in Philadelphia. The city's diverse music scene includes jazz, rock, and hip hop.

Flagstaff is not a live music destination.

Is Philadelphia or Flagstaff Better for its Old Town?

Philadelphia
Flagstaff

Philadelphia is a city with good options for its historic old town charm. However, Flagstaff does not have a historic old town.

Philadelphia offers a nice historic old town area. The Old City has a number of Colonial-era sites including Independence Hall, the Liberty Bell, the Betsy Ross House.

Flagstaff does not have a historic old town.

Is Philadelphia or Flagstaff Better for Hiking?

Philadelphia
Flagstaff

Flagstaff is a must-visit destination for its hiking trails. However, Philadelphia is not a hiking destination.

Known for its hiking, Flagstaff draws a crowd to experience the nature and the trails. Nearby you'll find world class hikes through surreal landscapes and diverse environments. The area is filled with desert landscapes and varied rock formations that are best explored on foot. Trails range in length and skill level, but whatever your ability, the hiking in the area is among the best.

Philadelphia is not a hiking destination.


Is the Shopping Better in Philadelphia or Flagstaff?

Philadelphia
Flagstaff

Philadelphia is well known for its shopping areas. Also, Flagstaff is still popular, but not quite as popular for shopping.

Browsing through shops is a popular activity in Philadelphia. 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.

Plenty of visitors enjoy shopping while in Flagstaff. Located along historic Route 66, you'll find many shops that capture the city's history, particularly in the Southside Historic District. The town also has farmer's markets as well as shopping centers and large malls.

Is Philadelphia or Flagstaff Better for Christmas?

Philadelphia
Flagstaff

Philadelphia is well known for its Christmas activities. However, Flagstaff does not offer Christmas activities.

Visitors come from all around to experience the Christmas activities in Philadelphia. There are a number of holiday events, light shows, and festivals during the holiday season.

Flagstaff does not offer Christmas activities.

Is Philadelphia or Flagstaff Better for Christmas Markets?

Philadelphia
Flagstaff

Philadelphia is a city with good options for its Christmas markets. However, Flagstaff does not offer Christmas markets.

Philadelphia is a nice place to see Christmas markets. The city has its own German style Christmas market at Love Park and City Hall. It hosts over 80 vendors.

Flagstaff does not offer Christmas markets.


Is Philadelphia or Flagstaff Better for Families?

Philadelphia
Flagstaff

Philadelphia and Flagstaff are both high quality destinations for the whole family.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Philadelphia is very family-friendly. 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.

Flagstaff is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. The city is filled with outdoor activities for kids like ropes courses and adventure parks. Kids will also enjoy climbing around the Lava River Cave, visiting Sunset Crater Volcano National Monument, or hiking through the many diverse landscapes in the area. There are also museums that educate visitors on the city's history as well as Lowell Observatory, which will intrigue all the space enthusiasts among us.

Is Philadelphia or Flagstaff Better for Couples?

Philadelphia
Flagstaff

Philadelphia and Flagstaff are both good 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.

Flagstaff is a good city for couples to visit. Hiking and outdoor adventure sports make this city a good destination for couples who enjoy active living. There are many parks that you can visit as well as hiking trails and unique natural settings.

Is Philadelphia or Flagstaff Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Philadelphia
Flagstaff

Flagstaff is an excellent place to visit for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Philadelphia is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for backpackers.

Many backpackers visit Flagstaff. There are campgrounds nearby as well as tons of nature parks and countless hiking trails in the area.

Philadelphia is a good city to visit for backpackers. There are a few good hostels for backpackers and budget travelers to choose from.


Is Philadelphia or Flagstaff Better for Students?

Philadelphia
Flagstaff

Philadelphia is well known for students. However, Flagstaff is not popular with students.

Students come from all over to stay in Philadelphia. With its many universities and diverse population, this city is a great place for international students.

Flagstaff is not popular with students.

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

Philadelphia
Flagstaff

Philadelphia is well known for its public transit. However, Flagstaff is not particularly known for times when you don't have a car.

Philadelphia offers a very effecient public transportation network. The system includes a subway, trolleys, buses, and a commuter rail.

Public transit is mostly limited in Flagstaff. The Mountain Line offers eight routes through town.

Is Philadelphia or Flagstaff a more walkable city?

Philadelphia
Flagstaff

Philadelphia is a must-visit destination for its ease of walking around. Also, Flagstaff is still popular, but not quite as popular for its walkability.

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

Flagstaff is somewhat walkable. The downtown is compact and walkable, but you'll really want to have a car to explore the nearby hiking trails and natural areas.


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

Should I spend more time in Flagstaff or Philadelphia?

How long in Philadelphia or Flagstaff?

It's fun to spend time in either Philadelphia or Flagstaff. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Flagstaff due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Philadelphia, and 2-4 days is enough time in Flagstaff.

Families should spend more time in Philadelphia than Flagstaff. 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 Flagstaff. 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 Flagstaff 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 Flagstaff? Ideal Length of Stay
    Philadelphia 2-3 
    Flagstaff 2-4

One day in Philadelphia or Flagstaff?

People visit Philadelphia because there is so much to do. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

In Flagstaff, many people enjoy the food and shopping that this active city offers. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. 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 Flagstaff?

People visit Philadelphia because there is so much to do. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Flagstaff is a fun place to experience. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. Lots of people come for the hiking. So, a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

Five days in Philadelphia or Flagstaff?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and live music when visiting the historic city of Philadelphia. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Most people head to the area for the museums. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

You'll find museums and nightlife around the picturesque destination of Flagstaff. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Lots of people come for the hiking. 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 Flagstaff?

Philadelphia is a popular choice for travelers. 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 will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Flagstaff is a popular place to visit. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. 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 2-Week Tours from Anchorage, The Best 2-Week Tours from San Francisco, The Best 2-Week Tours from Los Angeles, and The Best Family-Friendly Tours to United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Flagstaff or Philadelphia?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Philadelphia is $188, while the average daily cost in Flagstaff is $166. 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 Flagstaff in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Philadelphia $119
    Flagstaff $86
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Philadelphia $238
    Flagstaff $172
Compare Hotels in Philadelphia and Flagstaff

Looking for a hotel in Philadelphia or Flagstaff? 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 Flagstaff


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 Flagstaff Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Philadelphia $28
    Flagstaff $37

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Philadelphia

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

  • Philadelphia Airport (PHL) to Philadelphia - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $131
  • Philadelphia Airport (PHL): Private Transfer to Philadelphia: $353
  • Philadelphia City to Washington City - Private Car Transfer: $135
  • Philadelphia to Philadelphia Airport (PHL) - Departure Private Transfer: $66
  • Private Transfer: Philadelphia Airport PHL to Philadelphia in Business Car: $95

Is it cheaper to fly into Philadelphia or Flagstaff?

Prices for flights to both Flagstaff 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 $49
    Flagstaff $55
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:

  • Flavors of Philly Food Tour: $52
  • Locals' Favorites Food Tour: $52
  • Best of Philly Food Tour: $55
  • Best of Philadelphia Food Tour-Small Group Walking Tour: $59
  • Bites and Booze: Walking Food Tour in Philadelphia : $65
  • Philadelphia's Delicious Donut Adventure & Walking Food Tour: $65
  • Flavors of Philly Food Tour: $65
  • Buffet Brunch, Lunch, or Dinner Cruise: $66
  • 9th Street Italian Market Walking Food Tour: $69
  • Secret Food Tour: $84
  • Highlights of East Passyunk Food Tour: $85
  • Chef-Led Taste of the Italian Market Food Tour: $90

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Philadelphia $28
    Flagstaff $28
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:

  • Philadelphia's Lost Waterfront: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $5.40
  • Art and Controversy: An audio tour of Philadelphia's most infamous art scandals: $5.40
  • Road to Revolution GPS Walking Audio Tour: $8.99
  • The Road to Revolution: A Self-Guided Audio Tour in Philadelphia: $8.99
  • Philadelphia Self-Guided Audio Tour : $9.00
  • Philadelphia In App Walking Audio Tour: $9.00
  • Unique Scavenger Hunt Experience in Philadelphia by Operation City Quest: $10
  • Self-Guided Audio Tour: $11
  • Self-Guided Walking Audio Tour: $12
  • National Liberty Museum Entrance Ticket: $12
  • Philadelphia Scavenger Hunt and Sights Self-Guided Tour: $13
  • Fantastic Philadelphia Self-Guided Audio Tour: $15

Tours and Activities in Flagstaff

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

  • All-day Grand Canyon • Indian Ruins • Volcano • Christian Tour: $199
  • Antelope Canyon and Horseshoe Bend Day Tour from Flagstaff: $299
  • Antelope Slot Canyon and Horseshoe Bend Day Tour from Flagstaff: $285
  • Arizona: Grand Canyon National Park Tour with Lunch & Pickup: $245
  • Comprehensive Grand Canyon Tour from Flagstaff w/Lunch: $208
  • Downtown Flagstaff Haunted History Tour: $28
  • Flagstaff Extreme Adventure Course-Adult Course: $65
  • Flagstaff Ghosts Tour By Us Ghost Adventures: $24
  • Flagstaff Scavenger Hunt Walking Tour and Game: $25
  • Flagstaff Segway Tour: $129
  • Flagstaff, AZ: Murder Mystery Detective Experience: $15
  • Adults-Only Haunted Walking Tour: $35

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Philadelphia $21
    Flagstaff $29

Sample the Local Flavors in Philadelphia

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

  • Liberty History Tour Pub Crawl: $45
  • Guided Tour with Pub Crawl: $45
  • Half-Day Philadelphia's Brewery Bike Tour with Tastings: $100
  • Philly Signature Guided Brewery Tour: $105
  • Guided Craft Brewery Tours with a Snack: $120

Sample the Local Flavors in Flagstaff

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Flagstaff:

  • Spirits With The Spirits, Haunted Pub Crawl Of Downtown Flagstaff: $50
  • Haunted Pub Crawl with Guide: $50


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


Which is Bigger, Philadelphia or Flagstaff?

Philadelphia has a larger population, and is about 30 times larger than the population of Flagstaff. When comparing the sizes of Philadelphia and Flagstaff, 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.