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

Should you visit Philadelphia or Sedona?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Philadelphia or Sedona, 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. Visitors also love the live music, food, and shopping. See Philadelphia travel costs.

Sedona

Sedona is a dramatic, scenic, and striking town. It offers plenty of small town charm along with sights and activities, too. Sedona is considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. Visitors also love the museums, nightlife, and food. See Sedona travel costs.

Philadelphia and Sedona: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Numerous theater shows
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Popular at Christmas
  • Known for Christmas markets
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Good public transit
  • Very walkable
  • Big city activities
Things to Consider
  • Less charming
  • Less popular with couples
Pros
  • Active nightlife
  • Nice resorts
  • Good for hiking
  • Known for its beauty
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Small town charm
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • Public transit not as usable
  • Less walkable


Is there more to do in Philadelphia or Sedona?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Philadelphia than Sedona, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Philadelphia is better known for its museums and attractions, theatre productions, nightlife, music, christmas markets, and big city activities, while Sedona is more popular for its resorts, hiking, shopping, small town charm, and impressive beauty. Sedona is more touristy than Philadelphia and is known for its stargazing, desert setting, and yoga retreats. Philadelphia is well known 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.

How is Philadelphia different from Sedona?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Philadelphia
Sedona

Philadelphia is an unbeatable place for its historical sights. Also, Sedona is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its sights and museums.

The museums and tourist attractions in Philadelphia are world-renowned. 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.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Sedona. The Sedona Heritage Museum offers a glimpse into the history and culture of the area. There are also many galleries around town.


Is Philadelphia or Sedona Better for Theater?

Philadelphia
Sedona

Philadelphia is great for its theatre productions. However, Sedona 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.

Sedona is not a theatre destination.

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

Philadelphia
Sedona

Both Philadelphia and Sedona offer a number of very good 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 Sedona is an experience not to be missed. It's grown into a foodie destination with local restaurants that pride themselves on using local ingredients. Mexican food is common but you'll also find cafes, classic American food, and other international options.

Is Philadelphia or Sedona Better for Nightlife?

Philadelphia
Sedona

Philadelphia is great for nightlife and partying. Also, Sedona is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its evening party scene.

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.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Sedona. There are bars, live music venues, and even a casino in town. Breweries are popular and there are also upscale wine bars.


Is Philadelphia or Sedona Better for Music?

Philadelphia
Sedona

Philadelphia is great for its live music scene. However, Sedona 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.

Sedona is not a live music destination.

Is Philadelphia or Sedona Better for Resorts?

Philadelphia
Sedona

Sedona is an excellent place to visit for its luxury resorts. However, Philadelphia is not a resort destination.

Sedona is a popular resort destination that attracts visitors from everywhere. Upscale resorts with spas, pools, and other amenities offer the perfect backdrop for a desert vacation.

Philadelphia is not a resort destination.

Is Philadelphia or Sedona Better for its Old Town?

Philadelphia
Sedona

Philadelphia and Sedona both have notable historical old towns that attract visitors.

Plenty of visitors enjoy exploring the old town in Philadelphia. The Old City has a number of Colonial-era sites including Independence Hall, the Liberty Bell, the Betsy Ross House.

Sedona offers a nice historic old town area. Traditional architecture and historic charm give downtown Sedona a lot of character.


Is Philadelphia or Sedona Better for Hiking?

Philadelphia
Sedona

Sedona is an excellent place to visit for its hiking trails. However, Philadelphia is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors explore the nearby hiking trails while visiting Sedona. It's red rock cliffs offer the perfect setting for dramatic hikes and breathtaking views. The colors are most impressive at sunrise and sunset and some of the most famous landmarks include Airport Mesa, Cathedral Rock, Bell Rock and Boynton Canyon.

Philadelphia is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Philadelphia or Sedona?

Philadelphia
Sedona

Sedona is a must-visit destination for its shopping opportunities. Also, Philadelphia is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its shopping areas.

Known for shopping, Sedona draws large crowds to its stores. It's filled with local artisan shops and art galleries that highlight the region's beauty. Head to Uptown Sedona for some of the best boutiques. You should also check out the Tlaquepaque Arts and Crafts Village, the Sedona Art Center, and Hozho Distinctive Shops and Galleries.

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.

Is Philadelphia or Sedona More Beautiful?

Philadelphia
Sedona

Sedona is a must-visit destination for its scenery and beauty. Also, Philadelphia is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its scenery and beauty.

Sedona is considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. The surrounded countryside is filled with dramatic desert landscapes and striking red cliffs.

Philadelphia offers plenty of beauty for visitors. With its diverse neighborhoods and rich history, this city offers its own type of beauty.


Is Philadelphia or Sedona Better for Families?

Philadelphia
Sedona

Philadelphia and Sedona 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.

Sedona is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. There are impressive parks and fun outdoor activities for the whole family. Head to Slide Rock State Park where your kids can enjoy a natural waterslide. There's also the Out of Africa Wildlife Zoo as well as a canyon railroad.

Is Philadelphia or Sedona Better for Couples?

Philadelphia
Sedona

Sedona is a must-visit destination for its romantic activities. Also, Philadelphia is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for couples.

Sedona has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. Stargazing in the evening or picnicking in a park during the day. There are countless romantic activities that couples can enjoy. The area is filled with striking natural beauty that is at its best during sunset. Couples will also enjoy fine dining and a variety of outdoor activities.

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 Sedona Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Philadelphia
Sedona

Philadelphia and Sedona are both notable destinations for backpackers.

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

Sedona is a good city to visit for backpackers. You'll find campgrounds, RV parks, and motels in the area, but no real hostels.


Is Philadelphia or Sedona Better for Students?

Philadelphia
Sedona

Philadelphia is great for its student-friendly activities. However, Sedona 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.

Sedona is not popular with students.

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

Philadelphia
Sedona

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

Public transit in Philadelphia can get you to some places easily. The system includes a subway, trolleys, buses, and a commuter rail.

Public transit is generally limited in Sedona. Verde Shuttle offers shuttle routes through town.

Is Philadelphia or Sedona a more walkable city?

Philadelphia
Sedona

Philadelphia is an unbeatable place for its high level of walkability. Also, Sedona is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its ease of walking around.

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.

Sedona is a somewhat walkable city. If you stay in Uptown Sedona, then the area is walkable, but if you're planning to stay further away then you'll need to have a car.


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

Should I spend more time in Sedona or Philadelphia?

How long in Philadelphia or Sedona?

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

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

One day in Philadelphia or Sedona?

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.

Sedona is a small town where visitors enjoy the food and shopping. 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 Sedona?

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.

Sedona is a fun place to experience. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. Lots of people come for the shopping. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring.

Five days in Philadelphia or Sedona?

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.

Sedona might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. 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 shopping. So, five days is just the right amount of time to spend here.


A week in Philadelphia or Sedona?

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.

Sedona 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 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, Sedona 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
    Sedona Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Philadelphia $224
    Sedona $200

The average daily cost (per person) in Philadelphia is $224, while the average daily cost in Sedona is $200. 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 Sedona in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Philadelphia $119
    Sedona $93
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Philadelphia $238
    Sedona $186
Compare Hotels in Philadelphia and Sedona

Looking for a hotel in Philadelphia or Sedona? 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 Sedona


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 Sedona Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Philadelphia $28
    Sedona $40

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Philadelphia

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

  • Philadelphia City to Baltimore City - Private Car Transfer: $210
  • Private Transfer Philadelphia to Philadephia Airport PHL by SUV: $146
  • Private transfer from PHL to Philadelphia Downtown: $130
  • Private Transfer: Philadelphia Airport PHL to Philadelphia in Luxury SUV: $115
  • Philadelphia Airport (PHL) to Philadelphia - Arrival Private Transfer: $109
  • Private Transfer: Philadelphia Airport PHL to Philadelphia in Business Car: $104
  • Private Transfer Philadephia to Philadelphia Airport PHL by Sedan: $94

Is it cheaper to fly into Philadelphia or Sedona?

Prices for flights to both Sedona 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
    Sedona $83
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:

  • Best of Philly Food Tour: $55
  • Africatown Guided Food Tour with Tastings: $56
  • Nibble Food Tour: $58
  • Philadelphia Italian Market Public Food Tour: $59
  • Center City Philadelphia Food Tour with Reading Market : $59
  • Italian Market Walking Food Tour: $59
  • Flavors of Philly Food Tour: $65
  • Vintage Shopping and Food Tour: $85
  • Buffet Brunch, Lunch, or Dinner Cruise: $87
  • Secret Food Tour: $91
  • Italian Market Non-Touristy Walking Food Tour: $95
  • Behind The Scenes Food Tour: South Philly & Italian Market: $95

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Sedona

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

  • The VIP Experience, Chuck Wagon Dinner and Show Tickets: $135
  • Sedona/Flagstaff: Grand Canyon Day Trip with Dinner & Sunset: $252

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Philadelphia $28
    Sedona $19
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 Hour Electric Cart Tour of Philadelphia with Local Guide: $69
  • 2.5 Hour Philadelphia History Tour with Washington War Tent Show: $45
  • 3-Hour Private Favorite & Secret Bars Walking Tour Philadelphia: $35
  • 90 Minute History Walking Tour of Old City Philadelphia: $29
  • Alexander Hamilton Private Group Walking Tour in Philadelphia: $250
  • Arabic Walking Tour of Historic Philadelphia for 2 hours. : $75
  • BYOB Historically Hilarious Trolley Tour of Philadelphia: $49
  • Badass Women's History Walking Tour of Philadelphia: $59
  • Best of Private Walking Tour with a Local: $109
  • City Sightseeing Philadelphia Double Decker Hop-On Hop-Off (24, 48, 72 Hours): $68
  • City Sightseeing Philadelphia Founding Fathers Walking Tour : $32
  • City Sightseeing Philadelphia HOHO Bus Tour + Bookable Extras: $39

Typical Entertainment Prices in Sedona

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


  • Red Rock Fantasy Light Show (for 2)
    $10

Tours and Activities in Sedona

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

  • 2 Hours Private Spiritual Healing Tour in the Nature of Sedona: $200
  • Amitabha Stupa and Peace Park Sedona, Arizona Experience: $300
  • Arizona Ghost Adventure: $150
  • Arizona Winery All-Inclusive Tour with Lunch & Tastings: $199
  • Best E-Bike Tour of Sedona with Private Local Guide: $140
  • Best UFO Tour of Sedona: $110
  • Cemetery Ghost Adventure Cottonwood, Az: $45
  • Chuck Wagon Supper & Western Stage Show at Blazin' M Ranch Ticket: $85
  • Everything Sedona (20+ Mile) - Sedona Helicopter Tour: $186
  • Explore Sedona's Vortexes: 2.5 Hour Jeep Tour of Mysticism: $136
  • Five Star AZ Wine Crawler Tour 4- 12 PPL : $139
  • From Flagstaff or Antelope Canyon Full-Day Tour: $306

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Philadelphia $21
    Sedona $13

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: $30
  • Philly Ghosts Boos and Booze Haunted Pub Crawl: $30
  • Philly Ghosts Boos and Booze Haunted Pub Crawl: $36
  • Liberty History Tour Pub Crawl: $45
  • Guided Tour with Pub Crawl: $45
  • Philadelphia Prohibition Pub Crawl: $50
  • Philly Signature Guided Brewery Tour: $105
  • Guided Craft Brewery Tours with a Snack: $120

Sample the Local Flavors in Sedona

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

  • Bliss - Sedona’s Most Luxurious Wine Tour - Lunch Included!: $115
  • Sedona-Jerome Scenic Vortex, Wine Tasting Grand Tour. See It All!: $199
  • 4 Hours Private Wine Tour in Sedona: $205
  • The Classic Sedona Wine Tour: $219
  • Voted Best in Sedona-Private Wine Tour of Vortex, Wine & Shopping: $225
  • Private Wine Tour in Sedona, Arizona: $275


When comparing the travel costs between Philadelphia and Sedona, 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 Sedona Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Philadelphia or Sedona?

Philadelphia has a larger population, and is about 150 times larger than the population of Sedona. When comparing the sizes of Philadelphia and Sedona, 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.