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

Should you visit Philadelphia or Moab?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Philadelphia or Moab, 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 diverse, historic, and cultural city. It's a large city with plenty of activites for visitors as well. It's a gorgeous place to visit. Other reasons to visit include shopping, museums, and theater.

Moab

Moab is a active, scenic, and adventurous town. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. Visitors also love the hiking, shopping, and food.

Philadelphia and Moab: 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
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to Delicate Arch in Arches National Park
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Public transit not as usable
  • Less walkable


Is there more to do in Philadelphia or Moab?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Philadelphia. Although Philadelphia and Moab are popular destinations, Philadelphia has more sights and attractions for tourists. Philadelphia is very popular for its museums, theatre productions, food, nightlife, music, historical sights, shopping, christmas markets, and big city activities, while Moab attracts visitors for its hiking and impressive beauty. Moab is more touristy than Philadelphia and is known for its desert landscapes and the iconic arches found at Arches National Park. Philadelphia is famous for its diverse population, large number of universities, great restaurant and market scene, and its role in American history. It is also well known for The Liberty Bell.

How is Philadelphia different from Moab?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Moab 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 Moab?

Philadelphia
Moab

Philadelphia is very popular for its historical sights. However, Moab is not a good destination for its sights and museums.

Travelers visit Philadelphia from around the world to see its many world-famous attractions. 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.

Moab offers a handful of options for museums and historical sights. There are a couple of museums in the area that will teach you about the geology and history. You can pop in the Moab Museum or the Film Museum at Red Cliffs Ranch, as well as the galleries around town.


Is Philadelphia or Moab Better for Theater?

Philadelphia
Moab

Philadelphia is great for theatre. However, Moab is not a theatre destination.

While in town, many visitors enjoy seeing a show in 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.

Moab is not a theatre destination.

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

Philadelphia
Moab

Philadelphia is great for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Moab is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its local cuisine and restaurants.

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in 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.

Visitors will find a budding food and restaurant scene in Moab. The town has grown over the years and now you'll find a diverse selection of restaurants that serve decent food. There are steakhouses, pizzerias, and even a couple ice cream shops.

Is Philadelphia or Moab Better for Nightlife?

Philadelphia
Moab

Philadelphia is great for nightlife. However, Moab is not a good destination for nightlife and partying.

Many people head to Philadelphia for the nightlife scene. 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.

Most people don't head to Moab specifically for the nightlife scene, but you can find a few options. The town has grown significantly and you'll find bars, taverns, and breweries where you can hang out in the evening, but it's still a quiet place with a laid back atmosphere.


Is Philadelphia or Moab Better for Music?

Philadelphia
Moab

Philadelphia is great for live music. However, Moab is not a live music destination.

The music scene in Philadelphia draws a good crowd. The city's diverse music scene includes jazz, rock, and hip hop.

Moab is not a live music destination.

Is Philadelphia or Moab Better for its Old Town?

Philadelphia
Moab

Philadelphia is a popular place for its historic old town. However, Moab does not have a historic old town.

Philadelphia is a good destination for visiting its old town. The Old City has a number of Colonial-era sites including Independence Hall, the Liberty Bell, the Betsy Ross House.

Moab does not have a historic old town.

Is Philadelphia or Moab Better for Hiking?

Philadelphia
Moab

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

Known for its hiking, Moab draws a crowd to experience the nature and the trails. The area is filled with hiking trails, both inside the nearby national parks as well as outside. Canyonlands National Park is large with impressive overlooks, while Arches National Park has fun hikes that take you by diverse arches and include many opportunities for scrambling. Outside of the park, hikers can visit Corona Arch or search for dinosaur footprints at Dinosaur Tracks Trail.

Philadelphia is not a hiking destination.


Is the Shopping Better in Philadelphia or Moab?

Philadelphia
Moab

Philadelphia is great for shopping. Also, Moab is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its shopping opportunities.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting 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.

Moab offers some nice shopping areas. There are gift shops, places to buy outdoor equipment, and convenient stores around town. There are also a number of art galleries that sell local items or impressive photography.

Is Philadelphia or Moab Better for Christmas?

Philadelphia
Moab

Philadelphia is great for its Christmas holiday experiences. However, Moab does not offer Christmas activities.

Philadelphia is a very popular destination during Christmas. There are a number of holiday events, light shows, and festivals during the holiday season.

Moab does not offer Christmas activities.

Is Philadelphia or Moab Better for Christmas Markets?

Philadelphia
Moab

Philadelphia is a popular place for visiting Christmas markets. However, Moab does not offer Christmas markets.

Many visitors go to the Christmas markets in Philadelphia. The city has its own German style Christmas market at Love Park and City Hall. It hosts over 80 vendors.

Moab does not offer Christmas markets.


Is Philadelphia or Moab Better for Families?

Philadelphia
Moab

Philadelphia and Moab are both very good 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.

Moab is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. It's a world of outdoor adventures. You'll find river rafting, mountain biking, rock climbing, and many kid-friendly trails. There's also the Tracks Museum, where kids can learn about dinosaurs as well as swimming pools or swimming holes in the area.

Is Philadelphia or Moab Better for Couples?

Philadelphia
Moab

Moab is an excellent place to visit for its romantic activities. Also, Philadelphia is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for couples.

Moab makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. The area is filled with adventurous fun, with everything from world-class hikes to impressive rafting trips. The dramatic landscape provides the backdrop for a truly spectacular trip.

Philadelphia is a good city for couples to visit. 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.

Is Philadelphia or Moab Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Philadelphia
Moab

Moab 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 Moab. The town has many campgrounds and even a few hostels. Arches National Park has only a few backcountry overnight camping sites. Terrain is rough and most areas aren't accessible by trail.

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 Moab Better for Students?

Philadelphia
Moab

Philadelphia is great for its student-friendly activities. However, Moab is not popular with students.

Philadelphia is a very popular city for students and younger travelers. With its many universities and diverse population, this city is a great place for international students.

Moab is not popular with students.

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

Philadelphia
Moab

Philadelphia is great for times when you don't have a car. However, Moab is not a good destination for its public transit.

Visitors to Philadelphia can move around easily with public transportation. The system includes a subway, trolleys, buses, and a commuter rail.

Public transit is limited or non-existant in Moab. There are efforts to create a transportation program within town, but there are limited transportation options available. If you book a tour, they usually provide transportation.

Is Philadelphia or Moab a more walkable city?

Philadelphia
Moab

Philadelphia is very popular for its walkability. However, Moab is not a good destination for its high level of walkability.

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

Moab is generally not very walkable. While it's possible to walk around within the town, most visitors don't come to visit they town, they come to explore the area. You'll need a car to access most points of interest in the area.


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

Should I spend more time in Moab or Philadelphia?

How long in Philadelphia or Moab?

In either Philadelphia or Moab, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Moab than Philadelphia because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Philadelphia, and 2-5 days is enough time in Moab.

Families should spend more time in Philadelphia than Moab. 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 Moab. 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 Moab 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 Moab? Ideal Length of Stay
    Philadelphia 2-3 
    Moab 2-5

One day in Philadelphia or Moab?

Philadelphia is a big city destination where you can fill many days. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

In Moab, many people enjoy the shopping and food that this active town 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 Moab?

Philadelphia is a fun place to experience. Most people visit for the museums. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. A weekend is often enough time to do most activities. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Moab 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 Moab?

You'll find live music and food around the historic big city of Philadelphia. This city offers something for everyone. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

In Moab, many people enjoy the shopping and food that this scenic destination offers. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Plenty of people spend five days in the area when traveling. Lots of people come for the hiking. So, five days is just the right amount of time to spend here.


A week in Philadelphia or Moab?

The historic city of Philadelphia offers food and shopping. 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.

Moab 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, Moab 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 Moab is $388. 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 Moab in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Philadelphia $119
    Moab $336
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Philadelphia $238
    Moab $672
Compare Hotels in Philadelphia and Moab

Looking for a hotel in Philadelphia or Moab? 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 Moab


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 Moab Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Philadelphia $28
    Moab $17

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Philadelphia

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

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

Is it cheaper to fly into Philadelphia or Moab?

Prices for flights to both Moab 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
    Moab $37
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

Typical Food Prices in Moab

Here are some examples of typical meal expenses from previous travelers to Moab:


  • Moab Brewery
    $42
  • Breakfast for Two
    $17

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Moab

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

  • Colorado River Dinner Cruise with Music and Light Show: $99
  • Colorado River Sunset Boat Tour with Optional Dinner: $109

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Philadelphia $28
    Moab $3.13
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:

  • 2 Hours Ben Franklin Yacht Brunch Cruise with Buffet: $65
  • A Magical Christmas Tour in Philadelphia: $554
  • Amazing Philadelphia Scavenger Hunt Adventure: $44
  • Art and Controversy: An audio tour of Philadelphia's most infamous art scandals: $5.40
  • BYOB Historically Hilarious Trolley Tour of Philadelphia: $49
  • Best of Philadelphia Small Group Walking Tour: $104
  • City Sightseeing Walking Tour – Founding Fathers and Mothers: $32
  • Classic Philadelphia City Bike Tour: $75
  • Cocktail Caravan: Philly Walking Bar Tour: $35
  • Dark Philly Adult Night Tour: $38
  • Discovering Colonial Philadelphia Private Walking Tour: $250
  • Double Decker Hop-On Hop-Off City Sightseeing Philadelphia (1, 2, or 3-Day): $36

Typical Entertainment Prices in Moab

For Moab, here are some examples of average entertainment and activity prices from previous travelers:


  • Slickrock Trail Pass
    $5.00

Tours and Activities in Moab

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Moab.

  • 2 hour Moab Ebike Petroglyph Tour: $107
  • 25+ National Parks Self-Guided Driving Tours Bundle: $85
  • 3-Hours Sunset Arches National Park Pavement Sights Tour: $191
  • Afternoon Arches National Park 4x4 Tour: $185
  • Afternoon Canyonlands Island In The Sky 4X4 Tour: $185
  • Arches National Park 4x4 Adventure from Moab: $197
  • Arches National Park Airplane Tour: $189
  • Arches National Park Back Country Adventure from Moab: $142
  • Arches National Park Scenic Tours From Moab: $161
  • Arches National Park: Driving Tour with Audio Guide: $8.99
  • Arches National Park: Guided Tour: $279
  • Arches National Park: Sunset Pavement Van Tour: $161

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Philadelphia $21
    Moab $66

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


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

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


Which is Bigger, Philadelphia or Moab?

Philadelphia has a larger population, and is about 310 times larger than the population of Moab. When comparing the sizes of Philadelphia and Moab, 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.