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

Should you visit Arlington or Newport?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Arlington or Newport, 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 educational, international, and historical city. It's also popular because of the food, shopping, and museums.

Newport

Newport is a seaside, historical, and charming town. This is a charming small with plenty of activities, too. It offers plenty of beauty for visitors. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food.

Arlington and Newport: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Good public transit
  • Home to Arlington National Cemetery
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with couples
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Popular beach
  • Scenic old town
  • 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 Newport?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Newport. Although Arlington and Newport are popular destinations, Newport has more sights and attractions for tourists. Newport is very popular for its beaches, historical sights, shopping, small town charm, and impressive beauty, while Arlington attracts visitors for its nightlife. Arlington is famous for its international connections, its biking and walking trails, and being the location of the Pentagon. Newport is famous for its sailing regattas, its mansions along Bellevue Avenue, and its maritime history. It is also well known for Thames Street.

How is Arlington different from Newport?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Arlington
Newport

You'll find a number of excellent museums and attractions in both Newport 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 Newport. The historic mansions and local museums educate visitors on the town's maritime past and colonial roots. Some of the more popular places to visit include The Breakers, The Elms Mansion, The Marble House, and Chateau-sur-mer Mansion.


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

Arlington
Newport

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

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, Newport makes for a great culinary experience. Find a waterfront restaurant and enjoy fresh seafood and a charming atmosphere. Many restaurants are influenced by the town's Portuguese and Irish roots. You'll find classic pubs as well as brunch cafes and traditional taverns.

Is Arlington or Newport Better for Nightlife?

Arlington
Newport

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

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.

Newport has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. There's a lively atmosphere in the evening with many pubs, taverns, and bars that keep the energy high.

Is Arlington or Newport Better for Beaches?

Arlington
Newport

Newport is an excellent place to visit for the beach. However, Arlington is not a beach destination.

You'll have a great beach vacation in Newport. Tucked in along the rocky coastline are many beautiful sandy beaches. You'll find popular and active beaches where you can lounge in a chair and people watch, as well as more secluded spots where you can enjoy a more peaceful setting. The largest beach is Easton's Beach (also known as First Beach). Surfers and boaters enjoy Sachuest Beach (or Second Beach), and a less popular, but very rewarding beach is also King Park Beach.

Arlington is not a beach destination.


Is Arlington or Newport Better for its Old Town?

Arlington
Newport

Newport is an excellent place to visit for its historic old town charm. However, Arlington does not have a historic old town.

Many visitors go to Newport to see the historical old town. The Historic District is filled with colonial buildings and impressive mansions. There are cobblestone streets and a charming loop through the town's Old Quarter.

Arlington does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Arlington or Newport?

Arlington
Newport

Newport is an excellent place to visit for its shopping areas. Also, Arlington is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for shopping.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in Newport. Walk along the charming cobblestone streets and pop in the many local boutiques and shops.

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 Newport Better for Families?

Arlington
Newport

Newport 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 Newport. For an educational and interactive experience, head to Save The Bay Exploration Center & Aquarium. The Norman Bird Sanctuary also has a lot of land and places to explore. Kids will enjoy a visit to the beach or running around Breton Point State Park as well. On a rainy day, Ryans Family Amusements is the perfect way to pass some time.

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 Newport Better for Couples?

Arlington
Newport

Newport is terrific for couples. Also, Arlington is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for romance.

Newport has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. It's a coastal town with a lot of charm that makes for a perfect romantic escape. Enjoy dining and shopping along Thames Street or take a walk along the coast. There are many local restaurants and evening activities for couples as well.

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 Newport Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Arlington
Newport

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

Newport is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. It's a beautiful town, but accommodation tends to be expensive and there aren't any hostels to attract the budget crowd.

Is Arlington or Newport Better for Students?

Arlington
Newport

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

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

Newport is not popular with students.


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

Arlington
Newport

Arlington is terrific for times when you don't have a car. Also, Newport is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its public transit.

The thorough and effecient public transit system of Arlington can take you anywhere. There is a reliable bus system around town as well as many metro connections.

You'll find some public transit in Newport, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There are buses operated by RIPTA. You can visit most of the attractions in the downtown area by catching a ride on one of the classic green and gold hybrid trolley buses.

Is Arlington or Newport a more walkable city?

Arlington
Newport

Arlington and Newport are excellent when it comes to walkability.

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

Newport is very walkable. The town's downtown are compact and fun to explore on foot. There is a nice concentration of shops, restaurants, hotels and sights.

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

Should I spend more time in Newport or Arlington?

How long in Arlington or Newport?

In either Arlington or Newport, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Newport than Arlington because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Arlington, and 2-5 days is enough time in Newport.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Arlington than Newport 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 Newport? Ideal Length of Stay
    Arlington 2-4 
    Newport 2-5

One day in Arlington or Newport?

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 shopping and museums around the town of Newport. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. 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 Newport?

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 museums and nightlife around the coastal destination of Newport. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. 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 Newport?

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.

You'll find nightlife and food around the charming town of Newport. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this town makes for a great vacation. It's also a great beach destination, too. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this town has to offer.

A week in Arlington or Newport?

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.

Newport is a popular choice for travelers. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. 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, Newport 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 Newport is $159. 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 Newport in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Arlington $131
    Newport $92
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Arlington $262
    Newport $184
Compare Hotels in Arlington and Newport

Looking for a hotel in Arlington or Newport? 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 Newport


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 Newport Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Arlington $49
    Newport $36

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 Newport

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

  • Private Transfer from Newport Port to Providence city Hotels: $61
  • Private Transfer from Newport Port to Providence Airport (PVD): $49
  • Private Transfer from Newport Port to Boston Logan Airport (BOS) : $88
  • Private Transfer from Newport Cruise Port to Boston city hotels: $88

Is it cheaper to fly into Arlington or Newport?

Prices for flights to both Newport 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
    Newport $45

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Newport

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

  • Newport Neighborhood Food Tour: $89

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Arlington $11
    Newport $17

Tours and Activities in Newport

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

  • Newport Ghosts: Seaside Hauntings and Hags Tour: $27
  • Afternoon Grand Tour | Gansett Cruises in Newport, RI: $38
  • Discover Newport's Grandeur: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $11
  • Downtown Westerly Ghost Tour: $30
  • Evening Voyage with Gansett Cruises in Newport, RI: $45
  • Historic Highlights with the Gilded Age Private Van Tour: $225
  • Lighthouse and Mimosa Cruise of Narragansett Bay from Newport: $42
  • Morning Mimosa Cruise with Gansett Cruises in Newport, RI: $38
  • Morning Mimosa Sightseeing Sail on Schooner Madeleine in Newport: $45
  • Newport Afternoon Sightseeing Sail on Classic Sailboat: $45
  • Newport Beach Private Tour & Whale Watching Cruise: $395
  • Newport Cliff Walk & Ocean Drive Self-Guided Tours Bundle: $14

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Arlington $17
    Newport $14


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

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


Which is Bigger, Arlington or Newport?

Arlington has a larger population, and is about 7 times larger than the population of Newport. When comparing the sizes of Arlington and Newport, 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 Newport?

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 Newport in the Summer?

Both Newport and Arlington are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Arlington for the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Newport because of the beaches, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences.

Arlington is a little warmer than Newport in the summer. The daily temperature in Arlington averages around 79°F (26°C) in July, and Newport fluctuates around 73°F (23°C).

It's quite sunny in Newport. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Arlington. Arlington usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Newport during summer. Arlington gets 278 hours of sunny skies, while Newport receives 293 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Arlington usually receives more rain than Newport. Arlington gets 3.5 inches (88 mm) of rain, while Newport receives 2.8 inches (72 mm) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Arlington 79°F (26°C) 
    Newport 73°F (23°C)

Should I visit Arlington or Newport in the Autumn?

Both Newport and Arlington during the autumn are popular places to visit. The autumn months attract visitors to Arlington because of the shopping scene. Furthermore, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Newport this time of year.

In the autumn, Arlington is a little warmer than Newport. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Arlington in October average around 60°F (15°C), and Newport averages at about 53°F (12°C).

In Newport, it's very sunny this time of the year. In the autumn, Arlington often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Newport. Arlington gets 197 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Newport receives 211 hours of full sun.

Arlington usually gets less rain in October than Newport. Arlington gets 2.9 inches (73 mm) of rain, while Newport receives 3.3 inches (83 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Arlington 60°F (15°C) 
    Newport 53°F (12°C)

Should I visit Arlington or Newport in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Arlington and Newport. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Arlington this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Newport for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Newport. It's quite cold in Arlington in the winter. In January, Arlington is generally much warmer than Newport. Daily temperatures in Arlington average around 35°F (1°C), and Newport fluctuates around 28°F (-2°C).

Arlington usually receives less sunshine than Newport during winter. Arlington gets 139 hours of sunny skies, while Newport receives 170 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Arlington usually receives less rain than Newport. Arlington gets 2.7 inches (68 mm) of rain, while Newport receives 3.5 inches (89 mm) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Arlington 35°F (1°C) 
    Newport 28°F (-2°C)

Should I visit Arlington or Newport in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Arlington as well as Newport. Additionally, many visitors come to Newport in the spring for the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty.

Arlington is a little warmer than Newport in the spring. The daily temperature in Arlington averages around 56°F (14°C) in April, and Newport fluctuates around 48°F (9°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Newport. 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 Newport. Arlington gets 228 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Newport receives 225 hours of full sun.

Arlington usually gets less rain in April than Newport. Arlington gets 2.8 inches (72 mm) of rain, while Newport receives 3.7 inches (94 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Arlington 56°F (14°C) 
    Newport 48°F (9°C)

Typical Weather for Newport and Arlington

Arlington Newport
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 35°F (1°C) 2.7 inches (68 mm) 28°F (-2°C) 3.5 inches (89 mm)
Feb 37°F (3°C) 2.7 inches (69 mm) 30°F (-1°C) 3.5 inches (88 mm)
Mar 47°F (8°C) 3.2 inches (82 mm) 38°F (3°C) 4 inches (101 mm)
Apr 56°F (14°C) 2.8 inches (72 mm) 48°F (9°C) 3.7 inches (94 mm)
May 66°F (19°C) 3.5 inches (89 mm) 58°F (15°C) 3.5 inches (89 mm)
Jun 75°F (24°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm) 67°F (20°C) 2.6 inches (67 mm)
Jul 79°F (26°C) 3.5 inches (88 mm) 73°F (23°C) 2.8 inches (72 mm)
Aug 78°F (26°C) 3.9 inches (98 mm) 72°F (22°C) 3.9 inches (99 mm)
Sep 71°F (22°C) 3.3 inches (85 mm) 64°F (18°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm)
Oct 60°F (15°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm) 53°F (12°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm)
Nov 50°F (10°C) 3.2 inches (82 mm) 44°F (7°C) 4.5 inches (115 mm)
Dec 39°F (4°C) 3.2 inches (82 mm) 33°F (0°C) 4.1 inches (105 mm)