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

Should you visit Tallahassee or Boulder?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Tallahassee and Boulder can help. It includes a travel cost comparison in addition to other factors. For many travelers, the cost of a destination is a primary consideration when choosing where to go.

Tallahassee

Tallahassee is a youthful, lively, and vibrant city. Visitors also love the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Boulder

Boulder is a nature-filled, biker-friendly, and outdoorsy city. It offers plenty of beauty for visitors. It's also popular because of the nightlife, live music, and food.

Tallahassee and Boulder: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with couples
Pros
  • Popular for skiing
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights


Is there more to do in Tallahassee or Boulder?

Visitors will generally find more to do in Boulder than Tallahassee. While Tallahassee is larger than Boulder, Boulder has more sights, attractions, and activities for tourists. Boulder is more popular for its skiing, food, music, hiking, and impressive beauty, while Tallahassee is known for its museums. Boulder is more touristy than Tallahassee and is known for its outdoor sports, biker-friendly downtown, vibrant downtown, and many local breweries. It is also home to The Flatirons. Tallahassee is popular for its capital building and many universities.

How is Tallahassee different from Boulder?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Tallahassee or Boulder Better for Skiing?

Tallahassee
Boulder

Boulder is adequate for skiing. However, Tallahassee is not a skiing destination.

While in the area, visitors like to go to Boulder for snow skiing. The town offers access within an hour or two to several great ski resorts including Eldora Mountain, Vail, and Breckenridge.

Tallahassee is not a skiing destination.


Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Tallahassee or Boulder?

Tallahassee
Boulder

Tallahassee is a great city for its historical sights. However, Boulder is not known for its sights and museums.

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around Tallahassee. As the capital city of Florida, you'll find a number of museums around town. Tallahassee Museum has outdoor and indoor space to explore. You can also visit the Tallahassee Automobile Museum, the Museum of Florida History, or the Florida Historic Capital Museum.

Boulder offers a handful of options for museums and historical sights. Most people visit Boulder for the outdoor activities more than the museums and sights. If have the time you can wander around the University of Colorado Boulder campus, visit the Museum of Boulder, or see the Leanin' Tree Museum of Western Art.

Is the Food Better in Tallahassee or Boulder? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Tallahassee
Boulder

Boulder is a city with good options for its local flavors and cuisine. However, Tallahassee is not a good destination for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Boulder is becoming an appealing option for foodies. This is an often overlooked foodie town, with great farmer's markets and restaurants to try. There are many casual places to eat as well as vegetarian and vegan friendly options everywhere.

Tallahassee offers some easy restaurants to choose from. You'll find plenty of chain restaurants and cheap eateries that cater to the students. The main options are classic American restaurants with a few international restaurants mixed in as well.

Is Tallahassee or Boulder Better for Nightlife?

Tallahassee
Boulder

The vibe at night is good in both Tallahassee and Boulder.

If you're looking for night time activities Tallahassee has a few options to choose from. The nightlife scene is mostly centered around the student population. There are many bars and pubs that fill up with students on weekends.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Boulder. The town has breweries, craft beer, and plenty to do in the evening. Live music is popular and many venues are smaller with a more personal atmosphere. Check out The Bitter Bar or License No. 1 for a local vibe.


Is Tallahassee or Boulder Better for Music?

Tallahassee
Boulder

Boulder is a city with good options for its music scene. However, Tallahassee is not a live music destination.

You'll find some good live music in Boulder. During the summer months there are often outdoor concerts. Head to Pearl Street for open air stages or see a concert at Boulder Theater.

Tallahassee is not a live music destination.

Is Tallahassee or Boulder Better for Hiking?

Tallahassee
Boulder

Boulder is great for hiking. However, Tallahassee is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors go to Boulder for the hiking trails. There are many accessible hikes in the area that take you through the mountains, by wildflowers, or up mountain peaks. Popular hikes that are nearby include the Bear Peak Summit Hike, the trails in Eldorado Canyon State Park, and Boulder Falls.

Tallahassee is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Tallahassee or Boulder?

Tallahassee
Boulder

If you're looking to go shopping, Tallahassee and Boulder both offer plenty of good spots.

Tallahassee has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. There is no shortage of strip malls and shopping centers in the area. Some of the most interesting shopping is found at Railroad Square and Market Square.

Boulder is a great destination for shopping. The downtown area has many local retailers where you can shop for clothing, art, or home goods. You can also pick up outdoor gear, camping equipment, and any other items you may need in town. Make sure you wander down the pedestrian-friendly Pearl Street Mall.


Is Tallahassee or Boulder Better for Families?

Tallahassee
Boulder

Both Tallahassee and Boulder are good to visit with kids.

Tallahassee offers lots of family activities. There are plenty of outdoor parks and adventure activities for kids. You could also see the wild manatees at Wakulla Springs.

Boulder is a family-friendly place to visit. The city has parks, playgrounds, a planetarium, and climbing gyms that are fun for kids of all ages. There are plenty places to get outdoors with hiking, kayaking, and other outdoor recreational activities. Eldorado Canyon State Park is a great place to explore as well.

Is Tallahassee or Boulder Better for Couples?

Tallahassee
Boulder

Boulder is a city with good options for couples. However, Tallahassee is not a good destination for romance.

Boulder is a good city for couples to visit. This is a great city for couples who love outdoor adventures, hiking, rock climbing, and cycling. You can wander down Pearl Street or go for a bike ride. There are also great restaurants where you can enjoy a meal and then head to Panorama Point to take in the view.

Tallahassee is not the best destination for a couple to visit. Head to a restaurant or bar. You could also check out a concert or explore a garden or park in town.

Is Tallahassee or Boulder Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Tallahassee
Boulder

For backpackers, both Tallahassee and Boulder are good places to visit.

Tallahassee is a good city to visit for backpackers. The student population creates an environment that is welcoming to backpackers. There's also a hostel in town with affordable rooms.

Plenty of backpackers visit Boulder. There are a number of backcountry areas in the region that are perfect for backpackers. The city also has a young population and several affordable places to stay.


Is Tallahassee or Boulder Better for Students?

Tallahassee
Boulder

For students, both Tallahassee and Boulder are very good places to visit.

Students come from all over to stay in Tallahassee. Both Florida State University and Florida A&M University are located here. There's a large student population with many activities and cheap restaurants that appeal to the student crowd.

Many students visit Boulder. With the University of Colorado, Boulder in town, this city is a popular spot for students. It's an outdoor enthusiast's perfect base with many outdoor recreational activities in the area.

Is Tallahassee or Boulder Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Tallahassee
Boulder

Tallahassee and Boulder both offer decent public transit to get you around.

Public transit is mostly limited in Tallahassee. There is a bus system operated by StarMetro.

Public transit is generally limited in Boulder. There are buses that run around town, but you really need a car to fully experience everything that the city has to offer.

Is Tallahassee or Boulder a more walkable city?

Tallahassee
Boulder

Boulder is a city with good options for its ease of walking around. However, Tallahassee is not a good destination for its walkability.

Boulder is a somewhat walkable city. The city has some nice walkable areas and it is very bike-friendly.

Tallahassee is generally not very walkable. There are a couple of walkable areas around Railroad Square, Downtown, and Midtown, but for the most part the city is not pedestrian-friendly.


For even more information, also check out Is Tallahassee Worth Visiting? and Is Boulder Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Boulder or Tallahassee?

How long in Tallahassee or Boulder?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Tallahassee and Boulder. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Boulder than in Tallahassee. Usually, 1-2 days is a good amount of time for Tallahassee, and 2-3 days is enough time in Boulder.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Boulder than Tallahassee 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 Boulder.


  • How many days in Tallahassee or Boulder? Ideal Length of Stay
    Tallahassee 1-2 
    Boulder 2-3

One day in Tallahassee or Boulder?

In Tallahassee, you'll find museums and nightlife. This city offers something for everyone. This would be the perfect place to spend one day, as it has just the right amount of activities.

Visitors enjoy the nightlife and live music when visiting the outdoorsy city of Boulder. Hikers are also drawn to this area. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A weekend in Tallahassee or Boulder?

In Tallahassee, you'll find nightlife and shopping. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Tallahassee has to offer.

Visitors enjoy the live music and food when visiting the biker-friendly destination of Boulder. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. This city offers something for everyone. Plenty of people spend a weekend in the area when traveling. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

Five days in Tallahassee or Boulder?

Tallahassee is a great place to explore. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

The nature-filled city of Boulder offers food and shopping. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.


A week in Tallahassee or Boulder?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Tallahassee. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Tallahassee. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

Many people enjoy the shopping and nightlife when visiting Boulder. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.


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


Which place is cheaper, Boulder or Tallahassee?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Tallahassee is $156, while the average daily cost in Boulder is $191. 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 Tallahassee and Boulder in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Tallahassee $89
    Boulder $102
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Tallahassee $178
    Boulder $204
Compare Hotels in Tallahassee and Boulder

Looking for a hotel in Tallahassee or Boulder? 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 Tallahassee


Hotels in Boulder


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: Tallahassee Hotel Prices and Boulder Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Tallahassee $33
    Boulder $51

Is it cheaper to fly into Tallahassee or Boulder?

Prices for flights to both Boulder and Tallahassee 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
    Tallahassee $47
    Boulder $54

Typical Food Prices in Boulder

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


  • 2 Coffees
    $8.75
  • Nice Dinner for Two
    $71

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Tallahassee $12
    Boulder $33

Tours and Activities in Tallahassee

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

  • Experience Tranquility with a Picnic at Pedrick Pond Park: $120
  • Luxury Picnic Experience at Pedrick Pond Park: $120
  • Tallahassee Delights: A Christmas Tour Through Art and Parks: $245
  • Tallahassee Delights: A Christmas Tour Through Art and Parks: $483
  • Tallahassee Tranquility: A Scenic Walking Tour: $192
  • Tallahassee Tranquility: A Scenic Walking Tour: $376

Tours and Activities in Boulder

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

  • E-Bike Guided Tour in Boulder, Colorado: $100
  • "Boulder Peaks & Wilderness Tours: Mallory Cave Trail": $65
  • 2 Hours Drone Experience with Pro Pilot and Photographer: $180
  • Amazing Boulder Scavenger Hunt Adventure: $44
  • Astronomy Tour: $45
  • Best Family Small-Group E-Bike Guided Tour in Boulder, Colorado: $100
  • Best of Boulder E-Bike Tour: $104
  • Boulder Backroads: E-Bike Dirt Road Tour: $250
  • Boulder Flatirons Private Photo Adventure: $85
  • Boulder Puzzling Adventure: $35
  • Boulder Scavenger Hunt Walking Tour and Game: $25
  • Boulder, CO: Murder Mystery Detective Experience: $15

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Tallahassee $53
    Boulder $27


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

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


Which is Bigger, Tallahassee or Boulder?

Tallahassee has a larger population, and is about 68% larger than the population of Boulder. When comparing the sizes of Tallahassee and Boulder, 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.