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

Should you visit Arlington or Detroit?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Arlington or Detroit, this travel comparison, which includes costs, can help. The overall cost of travel is usually a consideration when deciding where to go next, and the cost comparison down below can help you decide based on the average prices from other travelers along with your own travel budget.

Arlington

Arlington is a historical, educational, and international city. 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 museums, nightlife, and live music.

Arlington and Detroit: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Good public transit
  • Home to Arlington National Cemetery
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Family-friendly
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with couples
  • Less popular with backpackers
  • Public transit not as usable


Is there more to do in Arlington or Detroit?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Detroit than Arlington, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Detroit is more popular for its music and big city activities, while Arlington is known for its museums and food. Arlington is more touristy than Detroit and is known for its international connections, its biking and walking trails, and being the location of the Pentagon. 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 Arlington different from Detroit?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Arlington
Detroit

Arlington 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 Arlington can be an interesting and educational experience. Arlington National Cemetery is where you'll find the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier as well as the tomb of John F. Kennedy Jr. There are many memorials around town, with the most famous being the U.S. Marine Corps Memorial. There are also several museums like the DEA Museum and the Museum of Contemporary Art.

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 Arlington or Detroit? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Arlington
Detroit

Arlington is a very popular place for its restaurants. Also, Detroit is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

Arlington has a huge number of terrific restaurants. It's a global city, and the restaurants reflect that. You'll find amazing Thai, Japanese, and Mexican restaurants. There are also less common cuisines to choose from such as Ethiopian, Moroccan, and Peruvian.

There are many up and coming restaurants in the Detroit area. 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 Arlington or Detroit Better for Nightlife?

Arlington
Detroit

Both Arlington and Detroit have superb vibes after the sun sets.

Arlington has a lively atmosphere and nightlife is popular here. The city has a huge young population that drives the nightlife scene. There are clubs, bars, and lounges in many neighborhoods. There are also comedy clubs and plenty of live music.

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

Is Arlington or Detroit Better for Music?

Arlington
Detroit

Detroit is terrific for its music scene. However, Arlington 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.

Arlington is not a live music destination.


Is the Shopping Better in Arlington or Detroit?

Arlington
Detroit

Shoppers can find a variety of good stores in both Arlington and Detroit.

Arlington has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. Many neighborhoods have local shops or farmer's markets. There are also shopping centers and malls such as Ballston Quarter, The Crossing Clarendon, and The Village at Shirlington.

Detroit is a great destination for shopping. There are several shopping streets like Woodward Avenue. There are also outlet malls, shopping centers, and Eastern Market.

Is Arlington or Detroit Better for Families?

Arlington
Detroit

Arlington and Detroit are both good destinations for the whole family.

Arlington is a family-friendly city. Kids will enjoy seeing the planes talk off from Gravelly Point park. There are also plenty of outdoor spaces and educational opportunities in the area, including world class museums.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Detroit. 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.

Is Arlington or Detroit Better for Couples?

Arlington
Detroit

Arlington is a nice place to visit for its romantic activities. However, Detroit is lacking in good options for couples.

Arlington makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. There's a vibrant cultural scene and many international restaurants that couples can enjoy. It's also a great place to take in a show or concert.

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 Arlington or Detroit Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Arlington
Detroit

Arlington is a very popular place for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Detroit is lacking in good options for backpackers.

Many backpackers visit Arlington. There are a couple of hostels and many free activities nearby. There's also great public transportation that makes for a convenient backpacker destination.

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 Arlington or Detroit Better for Students?

Arlington
Detroit

Arlington is a very popular place for its student-friendly activities. However, Detroit is not popular with students.

Arlington is a great city to visit as a student. There are a huge number of colleges and museums in the area as well as many great internship and educational opportunities.

Detroit is not popular with students.

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

Arlington
Detroit

Arlington 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 Arlington can get around quickly with the extensive public transit system. There is a reliable bus system around town as well as many metro connections.

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


Is Arlington or Detroit a more walkable city?

Arlington
Detroit

Arlington is a very popular place for its high level of walkability. Also, Detroit is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its ease of walking around.

Arlington is a very walkable city. There are many pedestrian-friendly areas around town, particularly in the neighborhoods that are concentrated around metro stations.

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 Arlington Worth Visiting? and Is Detroit Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Detroit or Arlington?

How long in Arlington or Detroit?

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

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

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

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


  • How many days in Arlington or Detroit? Ideal Length of Stay
    Arlington 2-4 
    Detroit 1-3

One day in Arlington or Detroit?

In Arlington, you'll find nightlife and food. This city offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

You'll find nightlife and live music around the city of Detroit. One day is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Detroit has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A weekend in Arlington or Detroit?

In Arlington, you'll find food 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 Arlington has to offer.

You'll find live music and food around the hardworking destination of Detroit. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.


Five days in Arlington or Detroit?

Arlington 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.

Travelers enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the overlooked city of Detroit. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Most people head to the area for the live music. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in Arlington or Detroit?

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

Detroit is a popular choice for travelers. 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. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.


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


Which place is cheaper, Detroit or Arlington?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Arlington is $264, while the average daily cost in Detroit is $133. 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 Arlington and Detroit in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Arlington $131
    Detroit $64
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Arlington $262
    Detroit $128
Compare Hotels in Arlington and Detroit

Looking for a hotel in Arlington or Detroit? 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 Arlington


Hotels in Detroit


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: Arlington Hotel Prices and Detroit Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Arlington $49
    Detroit $37

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Arlington

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

  • Ronald Reagan DCA Airport Transfers: $160

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Detroit

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

  • Private Transfer from Detroit City to Detroit (DTW) Airport: $141
  • Private Transfer from Detroit (DTW) Airport to Detroit City: $141
  • Private Departure Transfer to Detroit Airport DTW: $61
  • Private Departure Transfer - to Detroit Airport (DTW) by SUV: $90
  • Private Arrival Transfer - from Detroit Airport (DTW) by SUV: $90
  • Detroit City to Detroit Airport (DTW) - Departure Private Transfer: $93
  • Detroit Airport (DTW) to Detroit City - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $187
  • Detroit Airport (DTW) to Detroit City - Arrival Private Transfer: $93
  • Detroit - Wayne County Airport One Way Transfer : $80
  • Departure Private Transfer: Detroit to Detroit Airport DTW in Luxury SUV: $129
  • Departure Private Transfer: Detroit to Detroit Airport DTW in Business Car: $99

Is it cheaper to fly into Arlington or Detroit?

Prices for flights to both Detroit and Arlington 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
    Arlington $81
    Detroit $44

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Detroit

For Detroit, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Fresh Mediterranean Inspired Cooking Class in a Unique Detroit Home: $104

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Arlington $11
    Detroit $21

Tours and Activities in Detroit

For Detroit, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • Ann Arbor Scavenger Hunt: Ann Arbor Adventure: $12
  • Detroit Red Wings Ice Hockey Game Ticket at Little Caesars Arena: $93
  • Detroit Tigers Baseball Game Ticket at Comerica Park: $6.61
  • Architectural Beauty and Hidden Gems Walking Tour: $115
  • Ghosts and Spirits Haunted Walking Tour: $26
  • Scavenger Hunt Adventure Self-Guided City Game: $10
  • Segway Tour Strait to the Point: $99
  • Spirit and History Self Guided Audio Tour: $6.50
  • Experience the season with a scavenger hunt in Ann Arbor with Holly Jolly Hunt: $20
  • LEGOLAND® Discovery Center Michigan Admission Ticket: $26
  • Motor City Ghosts Tour: $33
  • Murder Mystery Detective Experience Ann Arbor, MI: $15

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Arlington $17
    Detroit $20


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

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


Which is Bigger, Arlington or Detroit?

Detroit has a larger population, and is about 5 times larger than the population of Arlington. When comparing the sizes of Arlington 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 Arlington 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 Arlington or Detroit in the Summer?

Both Detroit and Arlington are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The summer months attract visitors to Arlington because of the family-friendly experiences. Also, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Detroit this time of year.

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

It's quite sunny in Detroit. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Arlington. Arlington usually receives less sunshine than Detroit during summer. Arlington gets 278 hours of sunny skies, while Detroit receives 319 hours of full sun in the summer.

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


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Arlington 79°F (26°C) 
    Detroit 74°F (24°C)

Should I visit Arlington or Detroit in the Autumn?

Both Detroit and Arlington during the autumn are popular places to visit. The shopping scene are the main draw to Arlington this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Detroit for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the music scene.

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

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

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


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Arlington 60°F (15°C) 
    Detroit 54°F (12°C)

Should I visit Arlington or Detroit in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Arlington and Detroit. Many travelers come to Arlington for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Furthermore, many visitors come to Detroit in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Detroit can get quite cold in the winter. Be prepared for some very cold days in Arlington. In the winter, Arlington is much warmer than Detroit. Typically, the winter temperatures in Arlington in January average around 35°F (1°C), and Detroit averages at about 25°F (-4°C).

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

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


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Arlington 35°F (1°C) 
    Detroit 25°F (-4°C)

Should I visit Arlington or Detroit in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Arlington as well as Detroit. Additionally, most visitors come to Detroit for the activities around the city during these months.

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

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Detroit. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Arlington this time of the year. In the spring, Arlington often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Detroit. Arlington gets 228 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Detroit receives 223 hours of full sun.

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


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Arlington 56°F (14°C) 
    Detroit 49°F (9°C)

Typical Weather for Detroit and Arlington

Arlington Detroit
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 35°F (1°C) 2.7 inches (68 mm) 25°F (-4°C) 2 inches (50 mm)
Feb 37°F (3°C) 2.7 inches (69 mm) 27°F (-3°C) 2.1 inches (54 mm)
Mar 47°F (8°C) 3.2 inches (82 mm) 37°F (3°C) 2.8 inches (72 mm)
Apr 56°F (14°C) 2.8 inches (72 mm) 49°F (9°C) 3.2 inches (80 mm)
May 66°F (19°C) 3.5 inches (89 mm) 60°F (16°C) 3 inches (76 mm)
Jun 75°F (24°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm) 70°F (21°C) 3.8 inches (97 mm)
Jul 79°F (26°C) 3.5 inches (88 mm) 74°F (24°C) 3.4 inches (85 mm)
Aug 78°F (26°C) 3.9 inches (98 mm) 73°F (23°C) 3.4 inches (86 mm)
Sep 71°F (22°C) 3.3 inches (85 mm) 65°F (19°C) 3.4 inches (87 mm)
Oct 60°F (15°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm) 54°F (12°C) 2.3 inches (58 mm)
Nov 50°F (10°C) 3.2 inches (82 mm) 43°F (6°C) 3 inches (75 mm)
Dec 39°F (4°C) 3.2 inches (82 mm) 31°F (-1°C) 3.2 inches (82 mm)