A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Atlantic City vs. Seattle for Nightlife, Attractions, Food, and Beaches

Should you visit Atlantic City or Seattle?

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

Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for Atlantic City and Seattle. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.

Atlantic City

Atlantic City is a glitzy, flashy, and party-oriented city. Other popular activities here include nightlife, food, and beaches.

Seattle

Seattle is a progressive, cultural, and outdoorsy city. It's a large city with plenty of activites for visitors as well. It's a gorgeous place to visit. It's also known for food, beaches, and hiking.

Atlantic City and Seattle: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Atlantic City or Seattle?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Seattle than Atlantic City, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Seattle is better known for its museums & sights, theatre productions, food, music, hiking, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Atlantic City is more popular for its nightlife and resorts. Atlantic City is more touristy than Seattle and is known for its casinos, gambling culture, nightlife scene, and wild personality Seattle is well known for its beautiful waterfront setting, diverse culinary scene, thriving art and cultural venues, and being the home of many international tech companies. Also, Seattle is famous for The Space Needle.

How is Atlantic City different from Seattle?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Atlantic City or Seattle?

Seattle is well known for its museums and landmarks. However, Atlantic City is not particularly known for its historical sights.

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around Seattle. The city's most iconic landmark is the Space Needle. There's also a zoo, aquarium, and a handful of nice museums. Several favorites include the Chihuly Garden and Glass, the Museum of History & Industry, and the Seattle Art Museum.

While most people don't head to Atlantic City specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. While most people don't spend their time in museums, there is the Marine Mammal Stranding Center, the African American Heritage Museum, and the Noyes Museum Galleries.

Is Atlantic City or Seattle Better for Theater?

Seattle is a good destination for theatre. However, Atlantic City is not a theatre destination.

With some theater and performance venues, you might want to see a show in Seattle. There are a handful of theaters where you can enjoy traveling Broadway shows or smaller productions.

Atlantic City is not a theatre destination.

Is the Food Better in Atlantic City or Seattle? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

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

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Seattle makes for a great culinary experience. The city has many diverse dining options that make it a popular foodie destination. The seafood is world-class with many restaurants offering fresh caught salmon and oysters. There are also many great Asian restaurants with Pho, sushi, and dim sum all being popular around town. Seattle is also famous as the birthplace of Starbucks coffee, and both chain and independent coffee shops are common. Finally, make sure you check out the donuts at Pike's Place Market.

Atlantic City has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. There are budget buffets around town as well as seafood restaurants and even some fine dining. Salt water taffy is a local specialty that you should pick up while you're in the area.

Is Atlantic City or Seattle Better for Nightlife?

Atlantic City is renowned for its evening party scene. Also, Seattle is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for nightlife.

Atlantic City is a destination that you simply have to visit at least once for nightlife. This is a city that is all about its nightlife scene. Many visitors come here just to party, and you'll find clubs with DJs or bands playing from sunset to sunrise. There are glitzy lounges and dive bars with everything in between. As a gambling town, there are casinos and all-night activities that keep the energy going round the clock.

Seattle has a lively atmosphere and nightlife is popular here. The city is known for its breweries and eclectic nightlife scene. There is a thriving theater scene as well as many bars and trendy restaurants. The best neighborhoods for nightlife include Capitol Hill, Belltown, and Downtown.

Is Atlantic City or Seattle Better for Music?

Seattle is well known for live music. However, Atlantic City is not a live music destination.

Music is a popular form of entertainment in Seattle. The city has developed its own music culture around several genres including alternative rock and grunge.

Atlantic City is not a live music destination.

Is Atlantic City or Seattle Better for Resorts?

Atlantic City is notable for its resorts. However, Seattle is not a resort destination.

Atlantic City is a popular resort destination that attracts visitors from everywhere. The beach and boardwalk are lined with casinos and resorts. There are many recognizable names such as Harrah's, Bally's, Caesars, Hard Rock, and the Tropicana.

Seattle is not a resort destination.

Is Atlantic City or Seattle Better for Beaches?

Atlantic City and Seattle both offer notable beaches.

Atlantic City offers a nice beach destination. There's a Boardwalk that runs along the beach and is lined with piers and hotels. The Downtown Beach is the most accessible, and where most tourists hang out. If you're willing to travel a little further, there are some nice beaches nearby such as Margate Beach and Brigantine Beach.

Seattle is a good option for a beach vacation. The city is surrounded by water so there are a number of rocky and sandy beaches nearby. Some beaches are more popular with locals while others attract a large amount of tourists. Alki Beach Park, Discovery Park, and Golden Gardens Park are among the best.

Is Atlantic City or Seattle Better for Hiking?

Seattle is well known for its hiking experiences. However, Atlantic City is not a hiking destination.

You'll find a nice variety of hiking trails around Seattle. It's famously an outdoorsy city and the hiking will not disappoint. Within a half hour drive of town you'll find beautiful forests and stunning natural beauty. Head into the Cascades, to the coastal rainforests, or around Mount Rainier for all kinds of diverse landscapes. Seattle is well situated for you to experience hiking through the diverse Pacific Northwest landscapes.

Atlantic City is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Atlantic City or Seattle?

Shopping is a popular activity in both Seattle and Atlantic City.

Atlantic City is a great destination for shopping. You'll find many souvenir shops along the boardwalk. There's also a Tangier Outlet Mall in the area. Some of the hotels such as the Tropicana have their own shopping areas as well.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Seattle. Shopping in town has an eclectic mix of high end brands, local vendors, and vintage shops. There are farmers markets as well as the famous Pike Place Market, but also major malls with all of the standard department stores.

Is Atlantic City or Seattle Better for Families?

Seattle is a good destination for its family-friendly activities. However, Atlantic City is not particularly known for its kid-friendly activities.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Seattle. This is an outdoor city with plenty of places where kids can run around and experience nature. There are several good museums as well as outdoor activities, parks, and a zoo. Make sure you check out the Burke Museum of Natural History and Culture, Volunteer Park, and Artists at Play Playground.

For families, Atlantic City is not always the best place to visit. Most families avoid this area for more family-friendly beaches, but if you find yourself in the area, you can check out Ripley's Believe It or Not or go on a dolphin cruise. Also popular is Steel Pier, which has rides for all ages.

Is Atlantic City or Seattle Better for Couples?

Atlantic City and Seattle both notable destinations for a couple.

Atlantic City is a nice destination for couples. It's not exactly known for its romance, but there are casinos, hotels, and a beaches that are fun to visit. You'll also find several spas and sunset cruises in the area.

Seattle makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. The city has a laid back vibe, a nice downtown area, and plenty of outdoor activities. There are a diversity of restaurants to enjoy and a great nightlife scene that makes for a good couple's getaway.

Is Atlantic City or Seattle Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Atlantic City and Seattle are notable places to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Plenty of backpackers visit Atlantic City. There is a hostel in the area. You'll also find a younger crowd and plenty of partying.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Seattle. Although it's not the most popular city for backpackers in America, the city's chill vibe, fun breweries, and lively setting make it a great spot for young backpackers.

Is Atlantic City or Seattle Better for Students?

Seattle is well known for students. However, Atlantic City is not popular with students.

Many students visit Seattle. It is a major IT center with a large university, so international students will have plenty of opportunities here. It's also a vibrant city with many outdoor recreational opportunities and a fun nightlife scene.

Atlantic City is not popular with students.

Is Atlantic City or Seattle Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

You'll find somewhat comparable public transit options in both Atlantic City and Seattle.

You'll find some public transit in Atlantic City, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. The Jitney are shuttle buses that runs from one end of the city to the other. They pass by most of the hotels and casinos along Pacific Avenue.

While Seattle offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There is a light rail system, a monorail, a street car, and buses.

Is Atlantic City or Seattle a more walkable city?

Atlantic City and Seattle both are great when exploring on foot.

Atlantic City is very walkable. Many of the hotels are walkable and located near the boardwalk.

Seattle is a very walkable city. Many neighborhoods are very walkable, particularly in the downtown and major tourist areas.

For even more information, also check out Is Atlantic City Worth Visiting? and Is Seattle Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Seattle or Atlantic City?

How long in Atlantic City or Seattle?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Atlantic City and Seattle. In our opinion, Seattle has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Seattle than Atlantic City. In general, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Atlantic City, and 2-3 days is enough time in Seattle.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Seattle than Atlantic City 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 Seattle.

One day in Atlantic City or Seattle?

In Atlantic City, you'll find shopping and nightlife. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. One reason most visitors come is for the nightlife. This city offers something for everyone. This would be the perfect place to spend one day, as it has just the right amount of activities.

Seattle is a bustling city that offers something for everyone. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. Your budget might influence how long you stay. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

A weekend in Atlantic City or Seattle?

In Atlantic City, you'll find nightlife and food. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. One reason most visitors come is for the nightlife. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Atlantic City has to offer.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Seattle. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. A weekend is usually enough time to experience most activities.

Five days in Atlantic City or Seattle?

Atlantic City is a great place to explore. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. 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 museums and theater when visiting the bustling big city of Seattle. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Five days 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.

A week in Atlantic City or Seattle?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Atlantic City. Many people enjoy the shopping and nightlife when visiting Atlantic City. One reason most visitors come is for the nightlife. It's also a relaxing resort destination. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

You'll find theater and nightlife around the city of Seattle. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

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.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Atlantic City or Seattle?

Seattle has a larger population, and is about 10 times larger than the population of Atlantic City. When comparing the sizes of Atlantic City and Seattle, 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 Atlantic City or Seattle?

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 Atlantic City or Seattle in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Atlantic City and Seattle. Many visitors come to Atlantic City in the summer for the beaches and the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Seattle for the beaches, the hiking, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In July, Atlantic City is generally a little warmer than Seattle. Daily temperatures in Atlantic City average around 75°F (24°C), and Seattle fluctuates around 67°F (19°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Seattle this time of the year. In Atlantic City, it's very sunny this time of the year. Atlantic City usually receives less sunshine than Seattle during summer. Atlantic City gets 273 hours of sunny skies, while Seattle receives 313 hours of full sun in the summer.

Atlantic City gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In July, Atlantic City usually receives more rain than Seattle. Atlantic City gets 4.4 inches (112 mm) of rain, while Seattle receives 0.9 inches (22 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Atlantic City or Seattle in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Atlantic City as well as Seattle. Most visitors come to Atlantic City for the shopping scene during these months. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Seattle because of the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

Atlantic City is around the same temperature as Seattle in the autumn. The daily temperature in Atlantic City averages around 56°F (13°C) in October, and Seattle fluctuates around 54°F (12°C).

In the autumn, Atlantic City often gets more sunshine than Seattle. Atlantic City gets 197 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Seattle receives 143 hours of full sun.

Atlantic City usually gets less rain in October than Seattle. Atlantic City gets 2.6 inches (67 mm) of rain, while Seattle receives 3.3 inches (83 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Atlantic City or Seattle in the Winter?

Both Seattle and Atlantic City are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The winter months attract visitors to Atlantic City because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, the museums, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine are the main draw to Seattle this time of year.

The weather in Atlantic City can be very cold. In the winter, Atlantic City is much colder than Seattle. Typically, the winter temperatures in Atlantic City in January average around 31°F (-0°C), and Seattle averages at about 42°F (5°C).

Atlantic City usually receives more sunshine than Seattle during winter. Atlantic City gets 146 hours of sunny skies, while Seattle receives 67 hours of full sun in the winter.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Seattle. In January, Atlantic City usually receives less rain than Seattle. Atlantic City gets 3.4 inches (87 mm) of rain, while Seattle receives 5.4 inches (136 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Atlantic City or Seattle in the Spring?

Both Seattle and Atlantic City during the spring are popular places to visit. The beaches are the main draw to Atlantic City this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Seattle for the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty.

In April, Atlantic City is generally around the same temperature as Seattle. Daily temperatures in Atlantic City average around 51°F (10°C), and Seattle fluctuates around 51°F (11°C).

In Seattle, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Atlantic City. In the spring, Atlantic City often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Seattle. Atlantic City gets 217 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Seattle receives 212 hours of full sun.

Atlantic City usually gets more rain in April than Seattle. Atlantic City gets 3.2 inches (82 mm) of rain, while Seattle receives 2.5 inches (64 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Seattle and Atlantic City