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

Should you visit Alexandria or Detroit?

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

Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for Alexandria and Detroit. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.

Alexandria

Alexandria is a historic, charming, and quaint city. This is a charming small with plenty of activities, too. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Visitors also love the food, shopping, and museums.

Detroit

Detroit is a overlooked , under-rated, and hardworking city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. It's also popular because of the live music, food, and shopping.

Alexandria and Detroit: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Alexandria or Detroit?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Detroit than Alexandria, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Detroit is more popular for its nightlife, music, and big city activities, while Alexandria is known for its museums, historical sights, shopping, small town charm, and impressive beauty. Alexandria is more touristy than Detroit and is known for its long-running history, beautiful architecture, and small town atmosphere. Detroit is popular for its Motown music, blue collar atmosphere, and influential auto industry. It is also home to the Henry Ford Experience.

How is Alexandria different from Detroit?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Alexandria or Detroit?

Alexandria is a very popular place for its museums and history. Also, Detroit is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its museums and landmarks.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Alexandria can be an interesting and educational experience. George Washington's Mount Vernon home is an iconic destination in Alexandria. There are also many other museums in town that focus on the region's history. The Alexandria History Museum at the Lyceum and the Gadsby's Tavern Museum are both interesting. There's Gunston Hall and the Carlyle House, as well as an archeology museum and many historic landmarks around town.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Detroit. Popular museums around town include the Detroit Institute of Arts, the Detroit Historical Museum, and the Michigan Science Center.

Is the Food Better in Alexandria or Detroit? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Dining out at restaurants in both Alexandria and Detroit can be an enjoyable experience.

Alexandria is becoming an appealing option for foodies. The food, like the city itself, reflects the area's history. There are many southern classic dishes as well as a lot of seafood. You'll find lots of local restaurants that serve high quality dishes and a quaint atmosphere.

Detroit offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. There's a local flavor to the food with a number of classic dishes that are popular like square pizza, Coney dogs, and corned beef egg rolls.

Is Alexandria or Detroit Better for Nightlife?

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

Many people head to Detroit for the nightlife scene. It's long history in music still influences the nightlife scene. You'll find bars, clubs, and other activities around town. Greektown and Midtown are both popular neighborhoods during the evening.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Alexandria. There's a great bar scene, as well as tons of restaurants that make for a relaxing night out.

Is Alexandria or Detroit Better for Music?

Detroit is an unbeatable place for its music scene. However, Alexandria is not a live music destination.

Detroit has become a mecca for musicians from around the world. Few cities have such an influential music industry. It's home to Motown and is well known for its soul music, jazz, blues, and rap.

Alexandria is not a live music destination.

Is Alexandria or Detroit Better for its Old Town?

Alexandria is an unbeatable place for its old town. However, Detroit does not have a historic old town.

With a famous historical old-town, Alexandria offers plenty to see. At the heart of the city is the historic old town. Its lined with townhomes that date back to the 18th century. There are many historic sights that have stories from the early days of the country. There are also cobblestone streets and a great waterfront.

Detroit does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Alexandria or Detroit?

Alexandria is a very popular place for its shopping opportunities. Also, Detroit is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its shopping areas.

Alexandria is well-known for its shopping. King Street is the main shopping street in town and it offers the largest concentration of independently owned boutiques in the Washington D.C. area. It's the perfectly place to spend an afternoon shopping.

Many visitors go to Detroit to go shopping. There are several shopping streets like Woodward Avenue. There are also outlet malls, shopping centers, and Eastern Market.

Is Alexandria or Detroit Better for Families?

Detroit is a good destination for its kid-friendly activities. However, Alexandria is not a good destination for its family-friendly activities.

Detroit offers lots of family activities. Head to the Detroit Zoo or check out one of the amusement parks in the area. Kids will enjoy a visit to Legoland and there's also the Sea Life Michigan Aquarium. You could also spend some time visiting the unique museums in the area.

Alexandria is not the most family-friendly destination. The waterfront area is nice to walk around. You can break up the history with an ice cream shop and kids will also enjoy taking a boat tour.

Is Alexandria or Detroit Better for Couples?

Alexandria is a very popular place for its romantic activities. However, Detroit is lacking in good options for couples.

Alexandria makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. The charm of the old town makes this a quaint and romantic destination. There's a waterfront area and many historic buildings. There are also romantic restaurants and plenty of places to grab brunch.

Detroit is not always the best place to visit for a couple. It's not a city that usually brings to mind romance, but if you find yourself here for a couple of days, there's a RiverWalk area and some interesting local neighborhoods.

Is Alexandria or Detroit Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Alexandria is a nice place to visit for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Detroit is lacking in good options for backpackers.

It's common for backpackers to visit Alexandria. There aren't any true hostels in town, but you will find some cheap motels.

Detroit is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. There are a couple of hostels in the area, but this is still an often overlooked city.

Is Alexandria or Detroit Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Alexandria is an unbeatable place for times when you don't have a car. However, Detroit is lacking in good options for its public transit.

Visitors in Alexandria can get around quickly with the extensive public transit system. DASH is the local bus system, but the city is also connected into the Washington DC metro system.

Public transit is generally limited in Detroit. There's a streetcar and bus system, but the car is still king in Motor City.

Is Alexandria or Detroit a more walkable city?

Alexandria is an unbeatable place for its high level of walkability. Also, Detroit is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its ease of walking around.

It's very easy to get around on foot in Alexandria. It's a very easy city to walk around, particularly in the historic heart where most tourists spend their time.

Detroit is a somewhat walkable city. There are parts of downtown Detroit that are walkable, but most people need a car to get around.

For even more information, also check out Is Alexandria Worth Visiting? and Is Detroit Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Detroit or Alexandria?

How long in Alexandria or Detroit?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Alexandria and Detroit. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Alexandria than in Detroit. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Alexandria, and 1-3 days is enough time in Detroit.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Alexandria than Detroit 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 Alexandria.

One day in Alexandria or Detroit?

In Alexandria, you'll find nightlife and food. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. This city offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

With live music and food around the under-rated city of Detroit, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. One of the main draws to the area is the live music. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Detroit, one day is sufficent for most.

A weekend in Alexandria or Detroit?

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

With food and shopping around the destination of Detroit, there's plenty to do. It offers something for everyone. Many people spend a weekend here. One of the main draws to the area is the live music. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this city.

Five days in Alexandria or Detroit?

Alexandria is a great place to explore. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. 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.

Detroit, a popular city, is full of activities for travelers. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

A week in Alexandria or Detroit?

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

Detroit is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. One of the main draws to the area is the live music. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

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

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

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

Which is Bigger, Alexandria or Detroit?

Detroit has a larger population, and is about 7 times larger than the population of Alexandria. When comparing the sizes of Alexandria and Detroit, 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.

When is the best time to visit Alexandria or Detroit?

Both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. And since both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Alexandria or Detroit in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Alexandria and Detroit. Many visitors come to Alexandria in the summer for the small town charm and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, most visitors come to Detroit for the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In July, Alexandria is generally a little warmer than Detroit. Daily temperatures in Alexandria average around 79°F (26°C), and Detroit fluctuates around 74°F (24°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Detroit this time of the year. In Alexandria, it's very sunny this time of the year. Alexandria usually receives less sunshine than Detroit during summer. Alexandria gets 278 hours of sunny skies, while Detroit receives 319 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Alexandria usually receives around the same amount of rain as Detroit. Alexandria gets 3.5 inches (88 mm) of rain, while Detroit receives 3.4 inches (85 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Alexandria or Detroit in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Alexandria as well as Detroit. Most visitors come to Alexandria for the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area during these months. Additionally, the autumn months attract visitors to Detroit because of the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the music scene.

Alexandria is a little warmer than Detroit in the autumn. The daily temperature in Alexandria averages around 60°F (15°C) in October, and Detroit fluctuates around 54°F (12°C).

In the autumn, Alexandria often gets more sunshine than Detroit. Alexandria gets 197 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Detroit receives 172 hours of full sun.

Alexandria usually gets more rain in October than Detroit. Alexandria gets 2.9 inches (73 mm) of rain, while Detroit receives 2.3 inches (58 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Alexandria or Detroit in the Winter?

Both Detroit and Alexandria are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The winter months attract visitors to Alexandria because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Detroit this time of year.

It's quite cold in Detroit in the winter. The weather in Alexandria can be very cold. In the winter, Alexandria is much warmer than Detroit. Typically, the winter temperatures in Alexandria in January average around 35°F (1°C), and Detroit averages at about 25°F (-4°C).

Alexandria usually receives more sunshine than Detroit during winter. Alexandria gets 139 hours of sunny skies, while Detroit receives 120 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Alexandria usually receives more rain than Detroit. Alexandria gets 2.7 inches (68 mm) of rain, while Detroit receives 2 inches (50 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Alexandria or Detroit in the Spring?

Both Detroit and Alexandria during the spring are popular places to visit. The small town charm and the natural beauty are the main draw to Alexandria this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Detroit for the activities around the city.

In April, Alexandria is generally a little warmer than Detroit. Daily temperatures in Alexandria average around 56°F (14°C), and Detroit fluctuates around 49°F (9°C).

In Detroit, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Alexandria. In the spring, Alexandria often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Detroit. Alexandria gets 228 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Detroit receives 223 hours of full sun.

Alexandria usually gets less rain in April than Detroit. Alexandria gets 2.8 inches (72 mm) of rain, while Detroit receives 3.2 inches (80 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Detroit and Alexandria