A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Arlington vs. Hood River for Attractions, Food, Nightlife, and Families

Should you visit Arlington or Hood River?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Arlington or Hood River, 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.

Hood River

Hood River is a agricultural, quaint, and scenic town. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the shopping, skiing, and nightlife.

Arlington and Hood River: 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
  • Very walkable
  • Home to Arlington National Cemetery
Pros
  • Popular for skiing
  • Active nightlife
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • Public transit not as usable
  • Less walkable


Is there more to do in Arlington or Hood River?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Hood River. Although Arlington and Hood River are both popular with visitors, Hood River has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Hood River is more popular for its skiing, hiking, and impressive beauty, while Arlington is known for its museums and nightlife. Arlington is popular for its international connections, its biking and walking trails, and being the location of the Pentagon. Hood River is popular for its waterfalls, wineries, and impressive mountains. It is also home to Multnomah Falls.

How is Arlington different from Hood River?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Arlington or Hood River Better for Skiing?

Arlington
Hood River

Hood River is a nice place to visit for skiing and snowboarding. However, Arlington is not a skiing destination.

Head to Hood River for some great skiing and other winter activities. During the winter months, Hood River makes a nice base for nearby skiing. Timberline and Cooper Spur and both less than an hour away and offer great skiing opportunities.

Arlington is not a skiing destination.


Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Arlington or Hood River?

Arlington
Hood River

Arlington is a very popular place for its museums and history. However, Hood River is lacking in good options for its museums and landmarks.

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

Hood River offers a handful of options for museums and historical sights. There are a couple of interesting museums in town such as the Western Antique Aeroplane and Automoblie Museum, the History Museum, and 301 Gallery.

Is the Food Better in Arlington or Hood River? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Arlington
Hood River

Local dishes at restaurants are fun to try in both Arlington and Hood River.

Arlington has a number of nationally recognized food spots and 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.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Hood River makes for a great culinary experience. Head to the downtown or waterfront areas for the best selection of restaurants. Most restaurants pride themselves on using local ingredients and supporting local farms. Dishes use fresh and healthy ingredients that make simple but high quality meals.

Is Arlington or Hood River Better for Nightlife?

Arlington
Hood River

Arlington is a very popular place for nightlife and partying. Also, Hood River is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its evening party scene.

Arlington has a large number of nightlife venues. 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.

Hood River has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. There are breweries, wineries, and local bars in the area that offer a laid back place where you can enjoy the local atmosphere.


Is Arlington or Hood River Better for Hiking?

Arlington
Hood River

Hood River is an excellent place to visit for its hiking trails. However, Arlington is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors explore the nearby hiking trails while visiting Hood River. There's a diversity of landscapes in the area that include waterfalls, agriculture, vineyards, and high-reaching mountain peaks. The best way to experience these is through the many hiking trails. Drive along the Historic Columbia River Highway and stop off at the trails that lead to the waterfalls, or head south of town to explore the vineyards on foot, and to the north where you'll find mountain peaks.

Arlington is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Arlington or Hood River?

Arlington
Hood River

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

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.

Hood River is a great destination for shopping. Local shops sell local produce, artisan crafts, and wine. There are boutiques and independent vendors that are fun to visit and many visitors enjoy spending an afternoon shopping.

Is Arlington or Hood River Better for Families?

Arlington
Hood River

Hood River is an excellent place to visit for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Arlington is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Hood River. The area is filled with outdoor adventures that the whole family can enjoy. There's swimming, tubing, hiking, and even windsurfing. Make sure you check out the Waterfront Park and Powerdale Substation.

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


Is Arlington or Hood River Better for Couples?

Arlington
Hood River

Hood River is an excellent place to visit for couples. Also, Arlington is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for romance.

Hood River makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Couples will enjoy the scenic natural setting and charming hotels and bed and breakfasts in the area. There are romantic hikes, local wineries, and many great restaurants that you can try.

Arlington is a nice destination for couples. 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.

Is Arlington or Hood River Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Arlington
Hood River

Arlington and Hood River are both very good destinations for backpackers.

Plenty of budget travelers and 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.

Backpackers come from all over to visit Hood River. There are a couple of hostels and some nice campgrounds in the area as well as many great hikes and a laid back atmosphere that backpackers appreciate.

Is Arlington or Hood River Better for Students?

Arlington
Hood River

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

Arlington is a very popular city for students and younger travelers. There are a huge number of colleges and museums in the area as well as many great internship and educational opportunities.

Hood River is not popular with students.


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

Arlington
Hood River

Arlington is an unbeatable place for times when you don't have a car. However, Hood River 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 Hood River. There are buses in the area but you really need your own transportation to see the region efficiently.

Is Arlington or Hood River a more walkable city?

Arlington
Hood River

Arlington is a very popular place for its high level of walkability. However, Hood River is lacking in good options 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.

Hood River is generally not very walkable. While there are parts of the town that are walkable, if you don't have a car you'll miss out on the surrounding natural landscapes and most of the hiking opportunities.

For even more information, also check out Is Arlington Worth Visiting? and Is Hood River Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Hood River or Arlington?

How long in Arlington or Hood River?

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

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Arlington than Hood River 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 Hood River? Ideal Length of Stay
    Arlington 2-4 
    Hood River 2-3

One day in Arlington or Hood River?

With museums and nightlife around the international city of Arlington, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

You'll find food and shopping around the town of Hood River. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.


A weekend in Arlington or Hood River?

With nightlife and food around the destination of Arlington, there's plenty to do. It offers something for everyone. Many people spend a weekend here. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this city.

You'll find shopping and skiing around the quaint destination of Hood River. Hikers are also drawn to this area. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this town has to offer. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Five days in Arlington or Hood River?

Arlington, 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.

Travelers enjoy the skiing and nightlife when visiting the scenic town of Hood River. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in Arlington or Hood River?

Arlington 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.

Hood River is a popular choice for travelers. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. 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 Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in United States of America, The Best Coach Bus Tours in United States of America, The Best Adventure Tours to United States of America, and The Best Train & Rail Tours in United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Hood River 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 Hood River is $145. 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 Hood River in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Arlington $131
    Hood River $78
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Arlington $262
    Hood River $156
Compare Hotels in Arlington and Hood River

Looking for a hotel in Arlington or Hood River? 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 Hood River


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 Hood River Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Arlington $49
    Hood River $46

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Arlington

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

  • Ronald Reagan DCA Airport Transfers: $160

Is it cheaper to fly into Arlington or Hood River?

Prices for flights to both Hood River 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
    Hood River $40

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Arlington $11
    Hood River $18

Tours and Activities in Hood River

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

  • Gift Basket Factory Tour: $31
  • Orchard Tour: $31
  • Railbikes Experience: $211
  • Portland: Multnomah Falls Scenic Air Tour: $199

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Arlington $17
    Hood River $19


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

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


Which is Bigger, Arlington or Hood River?

Arlington has a larger population, and is about 30 times larger than the population of Hood River. When comparing the sizes of Arlington and Hood River, 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 Hood River?

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 Hood River in the Summer?

Both Hood River and Arlington are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Arlington in the summer for the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Hood River for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In July, Arlington is generally a little warmer than Hood River. Daily temperatures in Arlington average around 79°F (26°C), and Hood River fluctuates around 68°F (20°C).

It's quite sunny in Hood River. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Arlington. Arlington usually receives less sunshine than Hood River during summer. Arlington gets 278 hours of sunny skies, while Hood River receives 338 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Arlington usually receives more rain than Hood River. Arlington gets 3.5 inches (88 mm) of rain, while Hood River receives 0.7 inches (18 mm) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Arlington 79°F (26°C) 
    Hood River 68°F (20°C)

Should I visit Arlington or Hood River in the Autumn?

Both Hood River and Arlington during the autumn are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Arlington for the shopping scene during these months. Furthermore, the autumn months attract visitors to Hood River because of the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

Arlington is a little warmer than Hood River in the autumn. The daily temperature in Arlington averages around 60°F (15°C) in October, and Hood River fluctuates around 55°F (13°C).

In the autumn, Arlington often gets more sunshine than Hood River. Arlington gets 197 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Hood River receives 155 hours of full sun.

Arlington usually gets more rain in October than Hood River. Arlington gets 2.9 inches (73 mm) of rain, while Hood River receives 2.6 inches (67 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Arlington 60°F (15°C) 
    Hood River 55°F (13°C)

Should I visit Arlington or Hood River in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Arlington and Hood River. The winter months attract visitors to Arlington because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Furthermore, the skiing, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Hood River this time of year.

It's quite cold in Hood River in the winter. The weather in Arlington can be very cold. In the winter, Arlington is much colder than Hood River. Typically, the winter temperatures in Arlington in January average around 35°F (1°C), and Hood River averages at about 40°F (4°C).

Arlington usually receives more sunshine than Hood River during winter. Arlington gets 139 hours of sunny skies, while Hood River receives 86 hours of full sun in the winter.

Hood River receives a lot of rain in the winter. In January, Arlington usually receives less rain than Hood River. Arlington gets 2.7 inches (68 mm) of rain, while Hood River receives 5.2 inches (132 mm) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Arlington 35°F (1°C) 
    Hood River 40°F (4°C)

Should I visit Arlington or Hood River in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Arlington as well as Hood River. Additionally, many travelers come to Hood River for the natural beauty.

In April, Arlington is generally a little warmer than Hood River. Daily temperatures in Arlington average around 56°F (14°C), and Hood River fluctuates around 51°F (11°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Hood River. 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 Hood River. Arlington gets 228 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Hood River receives 231 hours of full sun.

Arlington usually gets more rain in April than Hood River. Arlington gets 2.8 inches (72 mm) of rain, while Hood River receives 2.4 inches (61 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Arlington 56°F (14°C) 
    Hood River 51°F (11°C)

Typical Weather for Hood River and Arlington

Arlington Hood River
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 35°F (1°C) 2.7 inches (68 mm) 40°F (4°C) 5.2 inches (132 mm)
Feb 37°F (3°C) 2.7 inches (69 mm) 44°F (7°C) 3.9 inches (98 mm)
Mar 47°F (8°C) 3.2 inches (82 mm) 47°F (9°C) 3.6 inches (92 mm)
Apr 56°F (14°C) 2.8 inches (72 mm) 51°F (11°C) 2.4 inches (61 mm)
May 66°F (19°C) 3.5 inches (89 mm) 57°F (14°C) 2 inches (51 mm)
Jun 75°F (24°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm) 64°F (18°C) 1.5 inches (39 mm)
Jul 79°F (26°C) 3.5 inches (88 mm) 68°F (20°C) 0.7 inches (18 mm)
Aug 78°F (26°C) 3.9 inches (98 mm) 69°F (20°C) 1 inches (25 mm)
Sep 71°F (22°C) 3.3 inches (85 mm) 63°F (17°C) 1.7 inches (44 mm)
Oct 60°F (15°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm) 55°F (13°C) 2.6 inches (67 mm)
Nov 50°F (10°C) 3.2 inches (82 mm) 46°F (8°C) 5.4 inches (136 mm)
Dec 39°F (4°C) 3.2 inches (82 mm) 40°F (5°C) 6.1 inches (156 mm)