A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Vail vs. Sun Valley for Skiing, Families, Couples, and Food

Should you visit Vail or Sun Valley?

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

Should I visit Vail or Sun Valley? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

Vail

Vail is a charming, picturesque, and scenic ski town. This is also a fantastic small town with plenty of charm and local activities. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It also has that perfectly quaint feel that is like no other place. It's also known for skiing, nightlife, and live music.

Sun Valley

Sun Valley is a outdoorsy, active, and adventurous town. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Visitors also love the food, hiking, and shopping.

Vail and Sun Valley: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Vail or Sun Valley?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Vail. Although Vail and Sun Valley are popular destinations, Vail has more sights and attractions for tourists. Vail is very popular for its nightlife, music, shopping, christmas markets, small town charm, and quaint atmosphere, while Sun Valley attracts visitors for its museums and food. Vail is more touristy than Sun Valley and is popular for its world-class skiing, charming mountain town atmosphere, and adventurous outdoor activities. It is also well known for The Vail Ski Resort. Sun Valley is famous for its ski resorts as well as being the home of Ernest Hemingway.

How is Vail different from Sun Valley?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Vail or Sun Valley Better for Skiing?

For skiing and winter sports, both Vail and Sun Valley provide amazing options.

If you're an avid snow skiier, Vail should be on your list. 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.

Sun Valley is among the world's best ski destinations. There are plenty of slopes that are accessible by lift as well as backcountry terrain for those who are more adventurous. The ski areas include Bald Mountain, which is next to Ketchum, and Dollar Mountain, by Sun Valley. Bald Mountain is best for advanced skiers and Dollar Mountain has options for beginners and intermediates.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Vail or Sun Valley?

Sun Valley is adequate for its historical sights. However, Vail does not have museums and landmarks.

While most people don't head to Sun Valley specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. Museums in the area include the Sun Valley Museum of Art and the Wood River Museum of History and Culture.

Vail does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Sun Valley is a great town for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Vail is not as popular, but is still a nice ski town for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Sun Valley has a huge number of terrific restaurants. Many restaurants pride themselves in using local, organic, and sustainable ingredients. You'll find everything from cafes and bakeries to sushi, pizza, and Mediterranean.

There are many up and coming restaurants in the Vail area. 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.

Is Vail or Sun Valley Better for Nightlife?

Vail is a great destination for nightlife. Also, Sun Valley is still popular, but not quite as popular for nightlife and partying.

The people in Vail know how to have a good time. 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.

If you're looking for night time activities Sun Valley has a few options to choose from. It's a low key town with relaxing bars and breweries where you can enjoy a cold drink after a day on the slopes. It's not a party town that's high energy, but there are plenty of places where you can hang out in a mellow setting.

Is Vail or Sun Valley Better for Music?

Vail is a good destination for live music. However, Sun Valley is not a live music destination.

You don't have to look far to find a unique music venue in Vail. You can often find live music at Shakedown Bar, Bridge Street Bar, and the Red Lion.

Sun Valley is not a live music destination.

Is Vail or Sun Valley Better for Resorts?

Vail and Sun Valley offer a relatively similar set of superb luxury resort options.

Vail is known as a popular and fun resort destination. 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.

Vacationers can choose from a number of terrific resorts in Sun Valley. The most popular place to stay is Sun Valley Lodge, but there are also other small lodges and hotels in the area.

Is Vail or Sun Valley Better for Hiking?

If you're looking to go hiking, Vail and Sun Valley both have superb trails.

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.

Sun Valley is a popular spot for hiking. During the warmer months you'll enjoy miles of hiking trails in the area that take you by fields of wildflowers and to scenic mountain overlooks. White Cloud Trails is a relatively easy 4 mile trail that many visitors enjoy. Baker Lake and Taylor Canyon are also nice options.

Is the Shopping Better in Vail or Sun Valley?

Vail is a great destination for shopping. Also, Sun Valley is still popular, but not quite as popular for its shopping opportunities.

Vail is an extremely popular place for shoppers. 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.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Sun Valley. While most visitors spend their time adventuring outdoors, there are also plenty of shopping options in the area. Whether you need to pick up hiking or ski gear, or you want to browse some local boutiques, you'll find shops that meet your need.

Is Vail or Sun Valley Better for Christmas?

Vail is terrific for its Christmas activities. However, Sun Valley does not offer Christmas activities.

Vail is a world class destination for shoppers. The town is a winter wonderland during the holidays. Check out the iconic Christmas tree lighting and wander through the fairytale streets.

Sun Valley does not offer Christmas activities.

Is Vail or Sun Valley Better for Christmas Markets?

Vail is a great destination for its Christmas markets. However, Sun Valley does not offer Christmas markets.

Vail has plenty of Christmas markets during the holiday season. The town's Christmas Market is picturesque, and the perfect place to pick up some unique gifts.

Sun Valley does not offer Christmas markets.

Is Vail or Sun Valley Better for Families?

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Vail or Sun Valley.

As it has a large number of activities for kids, Vail is a very family-friendly destination. 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.

Sun Valley is one of the most popular family destinations. During the winter months there's skiing, ice skating, and other winter activities. During the warmer months families will enjoy riding the Roundhouse Express Gondola, hiking through the mountains, or horseback riding.

Is Vail or Sun Valley Better for Couples?

With fun activities for couples, both Vail and Sun Valley make for a amazing place to visit.

Vail makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. 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.

For those traveling as a couple, Sun Valley has plenty to offer. Couples who enjoy winter sports and outdoor activities will love a romantic getaway to the area. There's also a charming downtown area that has great restaurants. In the surrounding countryside there's plenty of spectacular hikes that couples will enjoy as well.

Is Vail or Sun Valley Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Sun Valley is a great town for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Vail is not as popular, but is still a nice ski town for backpackers.

Many backpackers visit Sun Valley. There are a couple of hostels in the area and plenty of activities that appeal to the backpacker crowd.

Vail is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. This ski town isn't completely closed off to budget travelers as there are a couple of hostels around town.

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

Sun Valley is a great town for times when you don't have a car. Also, Vail is not as popular, but is still a nice ski town for its public transit.

Public transit in Sun Valley can get you to some places easily. There are free shuttle buses that run through Wood River Valley including connections between the Village and Dollar and Bald Mountains. It's also connected to Ketchum and Elkhorn Springs.

Vail has a few public transit options. There is a free bus service through the area.

Is Vail or Sun Valley a more walkable city?

Vail and Sun Valley are amazing when it comes to 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.

It is easy to get around Sun Valley on foot. It's easy to walk to almost anything you need if you stay at a conveniently located hotel.

For even more information, also check out Is Vail Worth Visiting? and Is Sun Valley Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Sun Valley or Vail?

How long in Vail or Sun Valley?

Both Vail and Sun Valley have a number of activities to choose from. In our opinion, Vail has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Vail than Sun Valley. However, 3-7 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Sun Valley than Vail 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 Sun Valley.

One day in Vail or Sun Valley?

Vail might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. Anyone can find something fun to do here. One of the main draws to the area is the skiing. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

Visitors enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the destination of Sun Valley. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

A weekend in Vail or Sun Valley?

Even though Vail is a small town, it has plenty of activities to choose from. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. It offers something for everyone. One of the main draws to the area is the skiing. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything.

Sun Valley is a fun place to experience. Most people visit for the skiing. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Five days in Vail or Sun Valley?

Vail, a popular ski town, is full of activities for travelers. This is a popular place to visit for five days. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. In five days, you should have a good grasp of this ski town. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Visitors enjoy the shopping and skiing when visiting the outdoorsy destination of Sun Valley. This town offers something for everyone. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. Plenty of people spend five days in the area when traveling. Five days is often enough time to do most activities.

A week in Vail or Sun Valley?

Vail is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have one week, this ski town makes for a great vacation. One of the main draws to the area is the skiing. One week should give you a good understanding of everything this ski town has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Visitors enjoy the skiing and nightlife when visiting the active town of Sun Valley. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. Many people spend one week here. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Because of this, one week is usually enough time for a trip here.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 10-Day Tours in United States of America, The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in United States of America, The Best 2-Week Tours in United States of America, and The Best 3-Week Tours in United States of America.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Vail and Sun Valley, we can see that Vail is more expensive. And not only is Sun Valley much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Sun Valley would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Sun Valley 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 Sun Valley.

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

Which is Bigger, Vail or Sun Valley?

Vail has a larger population, and is about 3 times larger than the population of Sun Valley. When comparing the sizes of Vail and Sun Valley, 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.