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

Should you visit Tallahassee or Vail?

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 Vail 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.

Vail

Vail is a resort-filled, charming, and picturesque ski town. With amazing attractions and sights, it's also a fun small town not to be missed. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. As it offers a special and quaint atmosphere, visitors come from all over to experience this destination. It's also popular because of the shopping, skiing, and nightlife.

Tallahassee and Vail: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
Things to Consider
  • Less family-friendly
  • Less popular with couples
  • Less walkable
Pros
  • Popular for skiing
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Nice resorts
  • Good for hiking
  • Popular at Christmas
  • Known for Christmas markets
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Very walkable
  • Small town charm
  • Impressive beauty
  • Quaint atmosphere
  • Home to the Vail Ski Resort


Is there more to do in Tallahassee or Vail?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Vail. Although Tallahassee and Vail are both popular with visitors, Vail has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Vail is more popular for its skiing, food, nightlife, music, resorts, hiking, shopping, christmas markets, small town charm, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere, while Tallahassee is known for its museums. Vail is more touristy than Tallahassee and is known for its world-class skiing, charming mountain town atmosphere, and adventurous outdoor activities. It is also home to The Vail Ski Resort. Tallahassee is popular for its capital building and many universities.

How is Tallahassee different from Vail?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Tallahassee or Vail Better for Skiing?

Tallahassee
Vail

Vail is an amazing ski town to visit for skiing. However, Tallahassee is not a skiing destination.

Visitors will find world class skiing in Vail. This ski town has produced its share of Olympians. Vail is the third largest ski resort in the US and it has 31 lifts and 195 runs. There are five different bowls that offer beautiful views.

Tallahassee is not a skiing destination.


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

Tallahassee
Vail

Tallahassee is a great city for its historical sights. However, Vail does not have museums and landmarks.

Tallahassee offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. 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.

Vail does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Tallahassee
Vail

Vail is a ski town with good options for its local flavors and cuisine. However, Tallahassee is not a good destination for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Vail is becoming an appealing option for foodies. The town has a diverse sampling of restaurants that include different ethnic options as well as taverns with comfort food. It's easy to find mountain-friendly restaurants where you can refuel during your ski vacation.

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 Vail Better for Nightlife?

Tallahassee
Vail

Vail is great for its evening party scene. Also, Tallahassee is not as popular, but is still a nice city for nightlife.

Many people head to Vail for the nightlife scene. Happy Hours start early, and then the partying can go late into the night. There are bars, lounges, breweries and live music that keep the atmosphere light and offer entertainment after your long day on the slopes. Do keep in mind that many places close or dramatically reduce their hours during the off-peak fall and spring months.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Tallahassee. The nightlife scene is mostly centered around the student population. There are many bars and pubs that fill up with students on weekends.


Is Tallahassee or Vail Better for Music?

Tallahassee
Vail

Vail is a ski town with good options for its music scene. However, Tallahassee is not a live music destination.

You'll find some good live music in Vail. You can often find live music at Shakedown Bar, Bridge Street Bar, and the Red Lion.

Tallahassee is not a live music destination.

Is Tallahassee or Vail Better for Resorts?

Tallahassee
Vail

Vail is great for its luxury resorts. However, Tallahassee is not a resort destination.

In Vail, you'll find some of the region's top resorts. Designed as a resort town, Vail offers great accommodation. Nice resorts include Four Seasons Resort and Residences, the Ritz Carlton Club, and the Grand Hyatt.

Tallahassee is not a resort destination.

Is Tallahassee or Vail Better for Hiking?

Tallahassee
Vail

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

Many visitors go to Vail for the hiking trails. During the warmer months, this resort town is surrounded by world-class hiking trails. You can enjoy the wildflowers, search for wildlife, or take in the sweeping mountain views. Popular hikes near Vail include Booth Falls, Davos Trail, and Shrine Ridge.

Tallahassee is not a hiking destination.


Is the Shopping Better in Tallahassee or Vail?

Tallahassee
Vail

Vail is great for its shopping areas. Also, Tallahassee is not as popular, but is still a nice city for shopping.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in Vail. The cobblestone streets are lined with boutiques and ski shops that sell everything from evening dresses to outdoor gear. It's easy to pop into the many shops around downtown Vail and find anything you might need.

Tallahassee is a great destination for shopping. 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.

Is Tallahassee or Vail Better for Christmas?

Tallahassee
Vail

Vail is an amazing ski town to visit for its Christmas holiday experiences. However, Tallahassee does not offer Christmas activities.

With so many activities, Vail is a top place to visit during Christmas. The town is a winter wonderland during the holidays. Check out the iconic Christmas tree lighting and wander through the fairytale streets.

Tallahassee does not offer Christmas activities.

Is Tallahassee or Vail Better for Christmas Markets?

Tallahassee
Vail

Vail is great for visiting Christmas markets. However, Tallahassee does not offer Christmas markets.

The Christmas markets in Vail offer plenty to see during the holidays. The town's Christmas Market is picturesque, and the perfect place to pick up some unique gifts.

Tallahassee does not offer Christmas markets.


Is Tallahassee or Vail Better for Families?

Tallahassee
Vail

Vail is an amazing ski town to visit for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Tallahassee is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its family-friendly activities.

Vail is an extremely popular ski town to visit for families. With its world class skiing, rock climbing, ice skating, and ice cream, kids love this ski resort. The resort town has two terrain parks - Golden Peak and Avanti. Avanti is perfect for kids. It has small jumps, wide rails, and kid-friendly amenities. Golden Peak is designed for more advanced athletes. Vail also has nice beginner slopes that are great for kids.

Tallahassee is a family-friendly place to visit. There are plenty of outdoor parks and adventure activities for kids. You could also see the wild manatees at Wakulla Springs.

Is Tallahassee or Vail Better for Couples?

Tallahassee
Vail

Vail is an amazing ski town to visit for couples. However, Tallahassee is not a good destination for romance.

Vail is a great ski town for couples, as it has plenty to offer. Couples who enjoy skiing and outdoor adventure will appreciate everything that this ski town has to offer. There are nice restaurants, beautiful gardens, and plenty of romantic activities to choose from.

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 Vail Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Tallahassee
Vail

For backpackers, both Tallahassee and Vail 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 Vail. This ski town isn't completely closed off to budget travelers as there are a couple of hostels around town.


Is Tallahassee or Vail Better for Students?

Tallahassee
Vail

Tallahassee is a great city for its student-friendly activities. However, Vail is not popular with students.

Tallahassee is a very popular city for students and younger travelers. 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.

Vail is not popular with students.

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

Tallahassee
Vail

Vail is a ski town with good options for times when you don't have a car. However, Tallahassee is not a good destination for its public transit.

While Vail offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There is a free bus service through the area.

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

Is Tallahassee or Vail a more walkable city?

Tallahassee
Vail

Vail is an amazing ski town to visit for its ease of walking around. However, Tallahassee is not a good destination for its walkability.

Vail is a very easy ski town to get around on foot. The main downtown is pedestrian-only and perfect for popping in shops and restaurants.

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 Vail Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Vail or Tallahassee?

How long in Tallahassee or Vail?

Both Tallahassee and Vail have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Vail than in Tallahassee. Usually, 1-2 days is a good amount of time for Tallahassee, and 3-7 days is enough time in Vail.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Vail 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 Vail.


  • How many days in Tallahassee or Vail? Ideal Length of Stay
    Tallahassee 1-2 
    Vail 3-7

One day in Tallahassee or Vail?

Visitors enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the destination of Tallahassee. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One day is usually enough time to experience most activities.

Vail is a small town with plenty to do. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Most people visit for the skiing. 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 Vail?

Tallahassee is a fun place to experience. 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.

Vail might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. This ski town offers something for everyone. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

Five days in Tallahassee or Vail?

You'll find shopping and museums around the vibrant destination of Tallahassee. This city offers something for everyone. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Even though Vail is a small town, it has plenty of activities to choose from. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. Many people spend five days here.If you enjoy all that's offered here, then five days is just the right amount of time to spend here. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.


A week in Tallahassee or Vail?

The vibrant city of Tallahassee offers museums and nightlife. 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.

Vail is a small town where visitors enjoy the skiing and nightlife. Anyone can find something fun to do here. This is a popular place to visit for one week. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. Most people visit for the skiing. In one week, you should have a good grasp of this ski town.


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, Vail 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 Vail is $291. 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 Vail in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Tallahassee $89
    Vail $174
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Tallahassee $178
    Vail $348
Compare Hotels in Tallahassee and Vail

Looking for a hotel in Tallahassee or Vail? 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 Vail


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 Vail Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Tallahassee $33
    Vail $19

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Vail

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

  • Private Eagle County / Vail Airport Transfer to Vail: $299
  • Private Eagle County Regional / Vail Airport Transfer to Beaver Creek: $299
  • Avon/Vail Valley to Denver Airport (DEN) - Departure Private Transfer : $239
  • EGE Airport Roundtrip Transfer to Vail, Beaver Creek, and Avon: $230
  • Vail/Beaver Creek/Avon to Denver Airport DEN - Departure Transfer: $219
  • Private Arrival Transfer from Vail Airport EGE: $156
  • Eagle County Airport to Steamboat - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $154
  • Eagle Airport (EGE) to Glenwood Resorts Round-Trip Transfer: $154
  • Private Departure Transfer to Vail Airport EGE: $128
  • Eagle County Airport to Steamboat Springs-Round-Trip Transfer: $121
  • Eagle County Regional (EGE) to Steamboat Springs-Arrival Transfer: $121
  • Eagle County Airport to Vail/Beaver Creek/Avon-Arrival Transfer: $115

Is it cheaper to fly into Tallahassee or Vail?

Prices for flights to both Vail 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
    Vail $74

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Tallahassee $12
    Vail $133

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 Vail

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

  • Bike Tour or Mountain Bike down Vail Mountain: $120
  • Dillon Marina & Shopping Tour: $267
  • Inflatable Kayak Adventure Colorado River: Half Day Guided Tour : $109
  • Save the Mountain Escape Room Adventure: $45
  • Smartphone Driving Tour between Denver & Vail / Breckenridge: $7.99
  • Stand Up Paddle Board Colorado River Adventure: Guided Half Day : $98

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Tallahassee $53
    Vail $9.79


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Tallahassee and Vail, we can see that Vail 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 Vail would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Vail 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 Vail Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Tallahassee or Vail?

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