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

Should you visit Alexandria or Seattle?

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 Seattle. 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 charming, quaint, and historic city. It's a very nice small town not to be missed. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. Other popular activities here include nightlife, food, and shopping.

Seattle

Seattle is a progressive, cultural, and outdoorsy city. As it's a big city, visitors will find plenty to do, too. It offers plenty of beauty for visitors. It's also popular because of the beaches, hiking, and shopping.

Alexandria and Seattle: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Alexandria or Seattle?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Seattle than Alexandria. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Seattle is very popular for its theatre productions, food, nightlife, music, beaches, hiking, and big city activities, while Alexandria attracts visitors for its historical sights, shopping, small town charm, and impressive beauty. Alexandria is famous for its long-running history, beautiful architecture, and small town atmosphere. Seattle is famous for its beautiful waterfront setting, diverse culinary scene, thriving art and cultural venues, and being the home of many international tech companies. It is also well known for The Space Needle.

How is Alexandria different from Seattle?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

You'll find a number of great museums and attractions in both Seattle and Alexandria.

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around Alexandria. 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.

Seattle offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. The city's most iconic landmark is the Space Needle. There's also a zoo, aquarium, and a handful of nice museums. Several favorites include the Chihuly Garden and Glass, the Museum of History & Industry, and the Seattle Art Museum.

Is Alexandria or Seattle Better for Theater?

Seattle is a good destination for its shows and theatre. However, Alexandria is not a theatre destination.

If you have some extra time in Seattle, take in a show. There are a handful of theaters where you can enjoy traveling Broadway shows or smaller productions.

Alexandria is not a theatre destination.

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

Seattle is great for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Alexandria is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Seattle has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. The city has many diverse dining options that make it a popular foodie destination. The seafood is world-class with many restaurants offering fresh caught salmon and oysters. There are also many great Asian restaurants with Pho, sushi, and dim sum all being popular around town. Seattle is also famous as the birthplace of Starbucks coffee, and both chain and independent coffee shops are common. Finally, make sure you check out the donuts at Pike's Place Market.

Alexandria offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. 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.

Is Alexandria or Seattle Better for Nightlife?

Seattle 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 Seattle for the nightlife scene. The city is known for its breweries and eclectic nightlife scene. There is a thriving theater scene as well as many bars and trendy restaurants. The best neighborhoods for nightlife include Capitol Hill, Belltown, and Downtown.

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 Seattle Better for Music?

Seattle is great for its music scene. However, Alexandria is not a live music destination.

The music scene in Seattle draws a good crowd. The city has developed its own music culture around several genres including alternative rock and grunge.

Alexandria is not a live music destination.

Is Alexandria or Seattle Better for Beaches?

Seattle is a good destination for the beach. However, Alexandria is not a beach destination.

Seattle offers a nice beach destination. The city is surrounded by water so there are a number of rocky and sandy beaches nearby. Some beaches are more popular with locals while others attract a large amount of tourists. Alki Beach Park, Discovery Park, and Golden Gardens Park are among the best.

Alexandria is not a beach destination.

Is Alexandria or Seattle Better for its Old Town?

Alexandria is renowned for its historic old town charm. However, Seattle does not have a historic old town.

The old town of Alexandria is one of the most recognized in the world. 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.

Seattle does not have a historic old town.

Is Alexandria or Seattle Better for Hiking?

Seattle is great for hiking. However, Alexandria is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors go to Seattle for the hiking trails. It's famously an outdoorsy city and the hiking will not disappoint. Within a half hour drive of town you'll find beautiful forests and stunning natural beauty. Head into the Cascades, to the coastal rainforests, or around Mount Rainier for all kinds of diverse landscapes. Seattle is well situated for you to experience hiking through the diverse Pacific Northwest landscapes.

Alexandria is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Alexandria or Seattle?

Alexandria is notable for its shopping areas. Also, Seattle is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for shopping.

Browsing through shops is a popular activity in Alexandria. 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.

Plenty of visitors enjoy shopping while in Seattle. Shopping in town has an eclectic mix of high end brands, local vendors, and vintage shops. There are farmers markets as well as the famous Pike Place Market, but also major malls with all of the standard department stores.

Is Alexandria or Seattle Better for Families?

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

Seattle offers lots of family activities. This is an outdoor city with plenty of places where kids can run around and experience nature. There are several good museums as well as outdoor activities, parks, and a zoo. Make sure you check out the Burke Museum of Natural History and Culture, Volunteer Park, and Artists at Play Playground.

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 Seattle Better for Couples?

Alexandria is notable for couples. Also, Seattle is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for romance.

Alexandria is a very popular place to visit for couples. 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.

Seattle is a nice destination for couples. The city has a laid back vibe, a nice downtown area, and plenty of outdoor activities. There are a diversity of restaurants to enjoy and a great nightlife scene that makes for a good couple's getaway.

Is Alexandria or Seattle Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

For backpackers, both Alexandria and Seattle are nice places to visit.

Plenty of backpackers visit Alexandria. There aren't any true hostels in town, but you will find some cheap motels.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Seattle. Although it's not the most popular city for backpackers in America, the city's chill vibe, fun breweries, and lively setting make it a great spot for young backpackers.

Is Alexandria or Seattle Better for Students?

Seattle is great for its student-friendly activities. However, Alexandria is not popular with students.

Many students visit Seattle. It is a major IT center with a large university, so international students will have plenty of opportunities here. It's also a vibrant city with many outdoor recreational opportunities and a fun nightlife scene.

Alexandria is not popular with students.

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

Alexandria is renowned for its public transit. Also, Seattle is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for times when you don't have a car.

Alexandria has a great public transit system. DASH is the local bus system, but the city is also connected into the Washington DC metro system.

Seattle has some public transit options. There is a light rail system, a monorail, a street car, and buses.

Is Alexandria or Seattle a more walkable city?

Alexandria is renowned for its ease of walking around. Also, Seattle is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its walkability.

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

Seattle is very walkable. Many neighborhoods are very walkable, particularly in the downtown and major tourist areas.

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

Should I spend more time in Seattle or Alexandria?

How long in Alexandria or Seattle?

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

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

Couples should spend more time in Alexandria than Seattle. 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 Seattle than Alexandria 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 Seattle.

One day in Alexandria or Seattle?

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.

When visiting Seattle, people usually allow for lots of time. Anyone can find something fun to do here. 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.

A weekend in Alexandria or Seattle?

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.

When visiting Seattle, people usually allow for lots of time. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. It offers something for everyone. Many people spend a weekend here. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this city.

Five days in Alexandria or Seattle?

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.

Seattle, a popular city, is full of activities for travelers. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. 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 Seattle?

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.

Seattle is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. 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 Seattle, we can see that Seattle 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 Seattle would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Seattle 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 Seattle Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Alexandria or Seattle?

Seattle has a larger population, and is about 4 times larger than the population of Alexandria. When comparing the sizes of Alexandria and Seattle, 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 Seattle?

Both places have a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. As both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Alexandria or Seattle in the Summer?

Both Seattle and Alexandria during the summer are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Alexandria in the summer for the small town charm and the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Seattle for the beaches, the hiking, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

Alexandria is a little warmer than Seattle in the summer. The daily temperature in Alexandria averages around 79°F (26°C) in July, and Seattle fluctuates around 67°F (19°C).

In Seattle, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Alexandria. In the summer, Alexandria often gets less sunshine than Seattle. Alexandria gets 278 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Seattle receives 313 hours of full sun.

Alexandria usually gets more rain in July than Seattle. Alexandria gets 3.5 inches (88 mm) of rain, while Seattle receives 0.9 inches (22 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Alexandria or Seattle in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Alexandria and Seattle. Most visitors come to Alexandria for the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area during these months. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Seattle because of the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Alexandria is a little warmer than Seattle. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Alexandria in October average around 60°F (15°C), and Seattle averages at about 54°F (12°C).

Alexandria usually receives more sunshine than Seattle during autumn. Alexandria gets 197 hours of sunny skies, while Seattle receives 143 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Alexandria usually receives less rain than Seattle. Alexandria gets 2.9 inches (73 mm) of rain, while Seattle receives 3.3 inches (83 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Alexandria or Seattle in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Alexandria as well as Seattle. The winter months attract visitors to Alexandria because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, the museums, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine are the main draw to Seattle this time of year.

The weather in Alexandria can be very cold. In January, Alexandria is generally much colder than Seattle. Daily temperatures in Alexandria average around 35°F (1°C), and Seattle fluctuates around 42°F (5°C).

In the winter, Alexandria often gets more sunshine than Seattle. Alexandria gets 139 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Seattle receives 67 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Seattle. Alexandria usually gets less rain in January than Seattle. Alexandria gets 2.7 inches (68 mm) of rain, while Seattle receives 5.4 inches (136 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Alexandria or Seattle in the Spring?

Both Seattle and Alexandria are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The small town charm and the natural beauty are the main draw to Alexandria this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Seattle for the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty.

Alexandria is a little warmer than Seattle in the spring. The daily temperature in Alexandria averages around 56°F (14°C) in April, and Seattle fluctuates around 51°F (11°C).

It's quite sunny in Seattle. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Alexandria. Alexandria usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Seattle during spring. Alexandria gets 228 hours of sunny skies, while Seattle receives 212 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Alexandria usually receives more rain than Seattle. Alexandria gets 2.8 inches (72 mm) of rain, while Seattle receives 2.5 inches (64 mm) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Seattle and Alexandria