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

Should you visit Arlington or Minneapolis?

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

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

Minneapolis

Minneapolis is a diverse, dynamic, and innovative city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. It's also popular because of the food, shopping, and museums.

Arlington and Minneapolis: 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 public transit
  • Home to Arlington National Cemetery
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for shopping
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with backpackers
  • Public transit not as usable


Is there more to do in Arlington or Minneapolis?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Minneapolis than Arlington, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Minneapolis is more popular for its shopping and big city activities, while Arlington is known for its food. Arlington is more touristy than Minneapolis and is known for its international connections, its biking and walking trails, and being the location of the Pentagon. Minneapolis is popular for its professional sports teams, countless outdoor activities, and friendly people. It is also home to Mall of America.

How is Arlington different from Minneapolis?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Arlington
Minneapolis

You'll find a number of superb museums and attractions in both Minneapolis and Arlington.

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.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into Minneapolis. There's a wide variety of museums that include art, history, science, and local culture. Some of the favorite museums in the city are the Minneapolis Institute of Art, the Walker Art Center, the American Swedish Institute, and the Weisman Art Museum.


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

Arlington
Minneapolis

Arlington is a very popular place for its restaurants. Also, Minneapolis 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 Minneapolis area. Dishes in the Midwest are known for being hearty comfort foods, and the food in Minneapolis is no exception. You'll find cheese-stuffed burgers that are known as Juicy Lucys, Tator Tot casseroles, and deep-fried cheese curds. For international food, there's a variety of Scandinavian options around town.

Is Arlington or Minneapolis Better for Nightlife?

Arlington
Minneapolis

Both Arlington and Minneapolis 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 Minneapolis know how to have a good time. There are diverse neighborhoods that each have their own personality. You'll find rooftop lounges in Uptown, international venues in Whittier, and trendy bars in the North Loop. But at the heart of the city's nightlife scene is Downtown Minneapolis.

Is the Shopping Better in Arlington or Minneapolis?

Arlington
Minneapolis

Minneapolis is terrific for its shopping areas. Also, Arlington is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for shopping.

Many people travel to Minneapolis specifically to go shopping. Known for the megamall, Mall of America, this is a shopper's paradise. Mall of America is the largest shopping mall in the country and it even has an aquarium and a theme park within it. In addition to this iconic shopping mall, Minneapolis also has many shopping districts including the Minnehaha Mile.

Arlington is a great destination for shopping. 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.


Is Arlington or Minneapolis Better for Families?

Arlington
Minneapolis

Minneapolis 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 Minneapolis. Mall of America is at the top of the list for most families, but there's also plenty of kid-friendly museums around town as well as nature centers, parks, and playgrounds. There's the Como Park Zoo and Conservatory, the Minnesota Zoo, and Afton Apple Orchard. For museums, kids will love the Minnesota Children's Museum or the Science Museum of Minnesota.

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 Minneapolis Better for Couples?

Arlington
Minneapolis

Arlington and Minneapolis are both good to visit as a couple.

Arlington is a good city for couples to visit. 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.

Minneapolis is a nice destination for couples. There are beautiful parks and outdoor spaces to explore as well as museums and fine dining. Couples will appreciate stopping by the Stone Arch Bridge or wandering through the Lyndale Park Rose Garden.

Is Arlington or Minneapolis Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Arlington
Minneapolis

Arlington is a very popular place for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Minneapolis 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.

Minneapolis is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. While it's not a popular destination for backpackers, there is at least one hostel in town.


Is Arlington or Minneapolis Better for Students?

Arlington
Minneapolis

Both Arlington and Minneapolis are superb destinations for 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.

Students come from all over to stay in Minneapolis. There are a number of colleges and universities in the area including the University of Minnesota. The city is known for its academic and intellectual focus, and students will enjoy being challenged educationally while enjoying a dynamic city.

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

Arlington
Minneapolis

Arlington is a world-class destination for times when you don't have a car. Also, Minneapolis is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its public transit.

With a huge network, the transit system in Arlington can get you around easily. There is a reliable bus system around town as well as many metro connections.

You'll find some public transit in Minneapolis, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There are buses, light rail, and commuter trains that stop at many of the major entertainment centers around town.

Is Arlington or Minneapolis a more walkable city?

Arlington
Minneapolis

Arlington is a very popular place for its high level of walkability. Also, Minneapolis 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.

Minneapolis is a somewhat walkable city. There are neighborhoods that are dense enough to be walkable, but the city is still very car-focused.


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

Should I spend more time in Minneapolis or Arlington?

How long in Arlington or Minneapolis?

It's fun to spend time in either Arlington or Minneapolis. In our opinion, Arlington has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Arlington than Minneapolis. However, 2-4 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

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

Couples should spend more time in Arlington than Minneapolis. 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 Minneapolis 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 Minneapolis? Ideal Length of Stay
    Arlington 2-4 
    Minneapolis 2-4

One day in Arlington or Minneapolis?

Visitors enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the educational city of Arlington. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

You'll find shopping and museums around the city of Minneapolis. 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 Minneapolis?

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the historical destination of Arlington. This city offers something for everyone. Plenty of people spend a weekend in the area when traveling. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

You'll find museums and nightlife around the dynamic destination of Minneapolis. 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 Minneapolis?

The educational city of Arlington offers shopping and museums. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

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


A week in Arlington or Minneapolis?

Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Arlington. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

Minneapolis 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 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.


Which place is cheaper, Minneapolis 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 Minneapolis is $206. 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 Minneapolis in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Arlington $131
    Minneapolis $110
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Arlington $262
    Minneapolis $220
Compare Hotels in Arlington and Minneapolis

Looking for a hotel in Arlington or Minneapolis? 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 Minneapolis


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 Minneapolis Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Arlington $49
    Minneapolis $43

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 Minneapolis

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

  • Private Departure Transfer to Minneapolis Airport MSP: $88
  • Private Arrival Transfer from Minneapolis Airport MSP: $88
  • Minneapolis Airport (MSP) to Minneapolis - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $139
  • Minneapolis Airport (MSP) to Minneapolis - Arrival Private Transfer: $69

Is it cheaper to fly into Arlington or Minneapolis?

Prices for flights to both Minneapolis 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
    Minneapolis $40

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Minneapolis

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

  • Minneapolis Food Tour - Walking: $115

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Arlington $11
    Minneapolis $27

Tours and Activities in Minneapolis

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

  • Challah Baking Experience: $72
  • Christmas in the City: A Minneapolis Walking Tour: $699
  • Complete Minneapolis Walking Tour: $99
  • Experience St. Paul Ghost Walking Tour: $29
  • Experience the season with a scavenger hunt in Minneapolis with Holly Jolly Hunt: $20
  • Ghost Walking Tour in Minneapolis: $29
  • In the Footsteps of Prince: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $7.99
  • In the Footsteps of Prince: A Self-Guided Audio Tour of Downtown Minneapolis: $7.99
  • Lost Souls Tour: $20
  • Mall of America: 1-Hour Escape Room Adventure: $44
  • Mall of America: Crayola Experience Flexible Date Ticket: $31
  • Mighty Mississippi: A Self-Guided Riverside Walking Tour: $7.99

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Arlington $17
    Minneapolis $24

Sample the Local Flavors in Minneapolis

Also in Minneapolis, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • History and 4-Bar Crawl Guided Walking Tour: $69
  • All-Inclusive Minneapolis Craft Brewery Tour: $85
  • 3-Hour Craft Brewery Tour: $100


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

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


Which is Bigger, Arlington or Minneapolis?

Minneapolis has a larger population, and is about 98% larger than the population of Arlington. When comparing the sizes of Arlington and Minneapolis, 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 Minneapolis?

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 Minneapolis in the Summer?

Both Minneapolis 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 and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Minneapolis this time of year.

In July, Arlington is generally around the same temperature as Minneapolis. Daily temperatures in Arlington average around 79°F (26°C), and Minneapolis fluctuates around 76°F (25°C).

It's quite sunny in Minneapolis. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Arlington. Arlington usually receives less sunshine than Minneapolis during summer. Arlington gets 278 hours of sunny skies, while Minneapolis receives 357 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Arlington usually receives around the same amount of rain as Minneapolis. Arlington gets 3.5 inches (88 mm) of rain, while Minneapolis receives 3.4 inches (86 mm) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Arlington 79°F (26°C) 
    Minneapolis 76°F (25°C)

Should I visit Arlington or Minneapolis in the Autumn?

Both Minneapolis 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 Minneapolis for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene.

Arlington is a little warmer than Minneapolis in the autumn. The daily temperature in Arlington averages around 60°F (15°C) in October, and Minneapolis fluctuates around 52°F (11°C).

In the autumn, Arlington often gets more sunshine than Minneapolis. Arlington gets 197 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Minneapolis receives 178 hours of full sun.

Arlington usually gets more rain in October than Minneapolis. Arlington gets 2.9 inches (73 mm) of rain, while Minneapolis receives 1.8 inches (45 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Arlington 60°F (15°C) 
    Minneapolis 52°F (11°C)

Should I visit Arlington or Minneapolis in the Winter?

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

Minneapolis can get quite cold in the winter. Be prepared for some very cold days in Arlington. In the winter, Arlington is much warmer than Minneapolis. Typically, the winter temperatures in Arlington in January average around 35°F (1°C), and Minneapolis averages at about 15°F (-10°C).

Arlington usually receives less sunshine than Minneapolis during winter. Arlington gets 139 hours of sunny skies, while Minneapolis receives 157 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Arlington usually receives more rain than Minneapolis. Arlington gets 2.7 inches (68 mm) of rain, while Minneapolis receives 0.9 inches (22 mm) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Arlington 35°F (1°C) 
    Minneapolis 15°F (-10°C)

Should I visit Arlington or Minneapolis in the Spring?

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

In April, Arlington is generally a little warmer than Minneapolis. Daily temperatures in Arlington average around 56°F (14°C), and Minneapolis fluctuates around 49°F (10°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Minneapolis. 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 Minneapolis. Arlington gets 228 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Minneapolis receives 244 hours of full sun.

Arlington usually gets more rain in April than Minneapolis. Arlington gets 2.8 inches (72 mm) of rain, while Minneapolis receives 2.1 inches (53 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Arlington 56°F (14°C) 
    Minneapolis 49°F (10°C)

Typical Weather for Minneapolis and Arlington

Arlington Minneapolis
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 35°F (1°C) 2.7 inches (68 mm) 15°F (-10°C) 0.9 inches (22 mm)
Feb 37°F (3°C) 2.7 inches (69 mm) 21°F (-6°C) 0.7 inches (19 mm)
Mar 47°F (8°C) 3.2 inches (82 mm) 34°F (1°C) 1.7 inches (43 mm)
Apr 56°F (14°C) 2.8 inches (72 mm) 49°F (10°C) 2.1 inches (53 mm)
May 66°F (19°C) 3.5 inches (89 mm) 62°F (16°C) 2.9 inches (74 mm)
Jun 75°F (24°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm) 71°F (22°C) 3.2 inches (82 mm)
Jul 79°F (26°C) 3.5 inches (88 mm) 76°F (25°C) 3.4 inches (86 mm)
Aug 78°F (26°C) 3.9 inches (98 mm) 73°F (23°C) 2.8 inches (71 mm)
Sep 71°F (22°C) 3.3 inches (85 mm) 64°F (18°C) 2.2 inches (57 mm)
Oct 60°F (15°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm) 52°F (11°C) 1.8 inches (45 mm)
Nov 50°F (10°C) 3.2 inches (82 mm) 36°F (2°C) 1.3 inches (33 mm)
Dec 39°F (4°C) 3.2 inches (82 mm) 21°F (-6°C) 0.9 inches (22 mm)