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

Should you visit Atlanta or Raleigh?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Atlanta or Raleigh, 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.

Atlanta

Atlanta is a cultural, diverse, and sprawling city. As it's a big city, visitors will find plenty to do, too. Other popular activities here include shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Raleigh

Raleigh is a student-friendly, suburban-style, and friendly 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 food.

Atlanta and Raleigh: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Atlanta or Raleigh?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Atlanta than Raleigh. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Atlanta is more touristy than Raleigh and is popular for its world class aquarium, its role as host of the 1996 Olympic Games, and its influence during the Civil Rights Movement. It is also well known for the Georgia Aquarium. Raleigh is famous for its many museums and being the home to North Carolina State University.

How is Atlanta different from Raleigh?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Atlanta or Raleigh?

Atlanta is very popular for its museums and landmarks. Also, Raleigh is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historical sights.

You'll find many recognizable landmarks that put Atlanta on the map. The museums range in topic from history to science and art. The country's largest aquarium, the Georgia Aquarium, is in Atlanta as well. It's home to whale sharks, stingrays, and a diversity of marine life. Other museums around town include the Atlanta History Center, the Fernbank Museum of Natural History, the High Museum of Art, the World of Coca Cola, the David J. Sencer CDC Museum, and the Delta Flight Museum. There are also many monuments and sites including the Martin Luther King Jr. National Historic Site.

Raleigh is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. As the state capital, there are a number of free museums in the area. There are also some kid-friendly options and other activities that are affiliated with the colleges and universities. Popular options include the NC Museum of Natural Sciences (free), the NC Museum of History (free), the NC Museum of Art (free), and Marbles Kids Museum.

Is the Food Better in Atlanta or Raleigh? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Atlanta is well known for its restaurant scene. Also, Raleigh is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

Dining out in Atlanta is an experience not to be missed. It's a huge city with a wide selection of restaurants including international, local, and classic southern styles. Fried chicken, biscuits, diner food, and barbecue are all popular. For a classic southern breakfast check out The OK Cafe and for a quintessential Atlanta experience go to The Varsity.

There are plenty of up and coming restaurants around Raleigh. In addition to the standard chain restaurants, you'll find a number of local eateries with great southern dishes. Try some southern classics like barbecue, pimento cheese, and fried chicken and waffles. There are also good international options including Nepalese, Laotian, and Ethiopian flavors.

Is Atlanta or Raleigh Better for Nightlife?

Atlanta is well known for its evening party scene. Also, Raleigh is still popular, but not quite as popular for nightlife.

Atlanta is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. The nightlife scene is diverse with trendy bars, dance clubs, and huge music halls. There are a number of neighborhoods that each have their own atmosphere. For some of the best nightlife check out the upscale bars in Buckhead, the music venues in Midtown, the hipster vibe in Edgewood, or the laid-back atmosphere in Virginia Highland.

If you're looking for night time activities Raleigh has a few options to choose from. Head to downtown Raleigh or the areas around NC State University for some of the best nightlife. Trivia nights and happy hours are popular and you'll find breweries popping up in many places.

Is the Shopping Better in Atlanta or Raleigh?

Atlanta is very popular for its shopping areas. However, Raleigh is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Atlanta is a world class destination for shoppers. There are a number of great shopping districts around town. Atlantic Station is popular with a movie theater and ice skating. Buckhead has boutique and local vendors and Lenox Square has a large shopping mall.

Raleigh is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Atlanta or Raleigh Better for Families?

Atlanta is well known for its family-friendly activities. Also, Raleigh is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

Atlanta is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. There is no shortage of playgrounds around town, but a highlight of any trip is a visit to the Georgia Aquarium. It's the largest aquarium in the United States and its home to whale sharks, hammerheads, dolphin shows, and more. It is so much more than just an aquarium, and it truly is a not to be missed experience. Also worth a visit are Zoo Atlanta, the Center of Puppetry Arts, Stone Mountain, Fernbank Museum of Natural History, and the Lego Discovery Center. If you have the chance to see the Atlanta Braves play, that's also a rewarding experience.

Raleigh offers lots of family activities. For such a small city, Raleigh has a number of unique kid-friendly activities like the popular Pullen Park and Marbles Kids' Museum. Pullen Park has small rides and a playground that are perfect for young kids. There's also the NC Museum of Natural History which is free and fun to explore with kids.

Is Atlanta or Raleigh Better for Couples?

Atlanta is a popular place for couples. However, Raleigh is not particularly known for romance.

Atlanta is a good city for couples to visit. It's a big city, so there are a number of date night activities available such as orchestra concerts, theater shows, and fine dining. The city also has many outdoor areas like Lake Lanier and Piedmont Park. The Georgia Aquarium is world class, and there are other amazing museums around town as well.

Raleigh is not the best destination for a couple to visit. While it's often overlooked by couples who want a weekend away, there are a number of museums and some nice restaurants to explore.

Is Atlanta or Raleigh Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Atlanta is a popular place for backpackers. However, Raleigh is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Atlanta. While it's usually overlooked by backpackers, there are actually a couple of hostels around town and a surprising number of activities worth experiencing. The city's large airport make it a convenient entry point for international travelers.

Raleigh is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

Is Atlanta or Raleigh Better for Students?

For students, both Atlanta and Raleigh are very good places to visit.

Atlanta is a great city to visit as a student. There are a number of universities in town such as Emory, Georgia Institute of Technology, Georgia State University, and Morehouse College. The city is sprawling, but it's also full of entertainment and activities that students will enjoy.

Students come from all over to stay in Raleigh. The city has a diverse student population with many nearby universities and colleges.

Is Atlanta or Raleigh Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Atlanta is a city with a few options for its public transit. However, Raleigh is not particularly known for times when you don't have a car.

Public transit is generally limited in Atlanta. For such a large city, the public transportation system is very limited. MARTA is the main transit authority and there are a few subway lines that cross the city as well as bus routes running around town.

Public transit is quite limited in Raleigh. The city's public transportation options are limited to a few bus lines that are mostly used by students.

Is Atlanta or Raleigh a more walkable city?

Atlanta is a popular place for its ease of walking around. However, Raleigh is not particularly known for its walkability.

Atlanta is a somewhat walkable city. Parts of the city are walkable, but most of the sights are spread out and require a car to access. Within neighborhoods, there are a few places that are more pedestrian-friendly such as Downtown, Midtown, Virginia Highlands, and Buckhead.

Raleigh is generally not a very walkable city. The city is somewhat walkable in the downtown area, but everywhere else you'll need a car.

For even more information, also check out Is Atlanta Worth Visiting? and Is Raleigh Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Raleigh or Atlanta?

How long in Atlanta or Raleigh?

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

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Atlanta than Raleigh 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 Atlanta.

One day in Atlanta or Raleigh?

Because Atlanta is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. This city offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

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

A weekend in Atlanta or Raleigh?

Because Atlanta is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. 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 Atlanta has to offer.

In Raleigh, you'll find nightlife and food. 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 Raleigh has to offer.

Five days in Atlanta or Raleigh?

Atlanta 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.

Raleigh 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.

A week in Atlanta or Raleigh?

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

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

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 2-Week Tours from Los Angeles, The Best Family-Friendly Tours to United States of America, The Best Wildlife Tours to United States of America, and The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in United States of America.

When comparing the travel costs between Atlanta and Raleigh, we can see that Raleigh is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Since both cities are in North America, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

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

Which is Bigger, Atlanta or Raleigh?

Atlanta has a larger population, and is about 53% larger than the population of Raleigh. When comparing the sizes of Atlanta and Raleigh, 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 Atlanta or Raleigh?

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

Should I visit Atlanta or Raleigh in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Atlanta as well as Raleigh. Many visitors come to Atlanta in the summer for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Raleigh for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

Atlanta is around the same temperature as Raleigh in the summer. The daily temperature in Atlanta averages around 82°F (28°C) in July, and Raleigh fluctuates around 79°F (26°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Raleigh. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Atlanta this time of the year. In the summer, Atlanta often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Raleigh. Atlanta gets 271 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Raleigh receives 259 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Raleigh. Atlanta receives a lot of rain in the summer. Atlanta usually gets around the same amount of rain in July as Raleigh. Atlanta gets 5.2 inches (133 mm) of rain, while Raleigh receives 5.1 inches (129 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Atlanta or Raleigh in the Autumn?

Both Raleigh and Atlanta are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Atlanta for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene during these months. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Raleigh because of the city's sights and attractions.

In the autumn, Atlanta is a little warmer than Raleigh. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Atlanta in October average around 66°F (19°C), and Raleigh averages at about 61°F (16°C).

It's quite sunny in Raleigh. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Atlanta. Atlanta usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Raleigh during autumn. Atlanta gets 222 hours of sunny skies, while Raleigh receives 211 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Atlanta usually receives more rain than Raleigh. Atlanta gets 3 inches (77 mm) of rain, while Raleigh receives 2.8 inches (71 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Atlanta or Raleigh in the Winter?

Both Raleigh and Atlanta during the winter are popular places to visit. The winter months attract visitors to Atlanta because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Furthermore, the museums and the cuisine are the main draw to Raleigh this time of year.

It's quite cold in Raleigh in the winter. In January, Atlanta is generally much warmer than Raleigh. Daily temperatures in Atlanta average around 45°F (7°C), and Raleigh fluctuates around 40°F (5°C).

In the winter, Atlanta often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Raleigh. Atlanta gets 164 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Raleigh receives 162 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Atlanta. Atlanta usually gets more rain in January than Raleigh. Atlanta gets 4.7 inches (120 mm) of rain, while Raleigh receives 3.2 inches (82 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Atlanta or Raleigh in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Atlanta and Raleigh. The activities around the city are the main draw to Atlanta this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Raleigh for the activities around the city.

Atlanta is a little warmer than Raleigh in the spring. The daily temperature in Atlanta averages around 65°F (18°C) in April, and Raleigh fluctuates around 60°F (16°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Raleigh this time of the year. In Atlanta, it's very sunny this time of the year. Atlanta usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Raleigh during spring. Atlanta gets 262 hours of sunny skies, while Raleigh receives 251 hours of full sun in the spring.

Atlanta gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In April, Atlanta usually receives more rain than Raleigh. Atlanta gets 4.1 inches (104 mm) of rain, while Raleigh receives 3.1 inches (78 mm) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Raleigh and Atlanta