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

Should you visit Beaufort or Minneapolis?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Beaufort 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.

Beaufort

Beaufort is a historic, character-filled, and southern town. It offers plenty of small town charm along with sights and activities, too. It's a beautiful place to visit, too. Because of its quaint atmosphere, it draws plenty of visitors, too. Visitors also love the beaches, shopping, and museums.

Minneapolis

Minneapolis is a dynamic, innovative, and diverse city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. It's also known for nightlife, food, and shopping.

Beaufort and Minneapolis: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular beach
  • Scenic old town
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Small town charm
  • Quaint atmosphere
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less popular for shopping
  • Less family-friendly
  • Public transit not as usable
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for students
  • Good public transit


Is there more to do in Beaufort or Minneapolis?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Minneapolis. Although Beaufort and Minneapolis are popular destinations, Minneapolis has more sights and attractions for tourists. Minneapolis is very popular for its museums, nightlife, shopping, and big city activities, while Beaufort attracts visitors for its food, beaches, historical sights, small town charm, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere. Beaufort is famous for its Lowcountry cuisine and historic homes. Minneapolis is famous for its professional sports teams, countless outdoor activities, and friendly people. It is also well known for Mall of America.

How is Beaufort different from Minneapolis?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Beaufort or Minneapolis?

Beaufort
Minneapolis

Minneapolis is notable for its sights and museums. Also, Beaufort is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its museums and history.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Minneapolis can be an interesting and educational experience. 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.

Beaufort offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. The town's museums highlight the region's past. There are four popular museums that you can visit - the Beaufort History Museum, Parris Island Museum, Verdier House Museum, and York W. Bailey Museum.


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

Beaufort
Minneapolis

Beaufort is a very popular place for its restaurants. Also, Minneapolis is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

Beaufort has a huge number of terrific restaurants. Soak up the charming atmosphere by dining at one of the local restaurants. Many serve Lowcountry cuisine which includes She-crab soup, fried green tomatoes, shrimp burgers, and barbecue.

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 Beaufort or Minneapolis Better for Nightlife?

Beaufort
Minneapolis

Minneapolis is notable for nightlife. However, Beaufort is a mediocre town for nightlife and partying.

Minneapolis has plenty to do after the sun goes down. 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.

Those looking for nightlife will find a few places to hang out in Beaufort. You'll find bars, grills, and taverns in town, but most people don't visit for the nightlife scene.

Is Beaufort or Minneapolis Better for Beaches?

Beaufort
Minneapolis

Beaufort is a nice place to visit for the beache. However, Minneapolis is not a beach destination.

Beaufort has a beach worth visiting. The town has a nice waterfront, but you have to head about half an hour out of town for a real beach. One of the best options is Hunting Island State Park.

Minneapolis is not a beach destination.


Is Beaufort or Minneapolis Better for its Old Town?

Beaufort
Minneapolis

Beaufort is a very popular place for its old town. However, Minneapolis does not have a historic old town.

Many visitors go to Beaufort to see the historical old town. Historic homes, some that were built before the Civil War, offer a glimpse into the past. Beaufort is the second oldest town in South Carolina and it holds on to much of its charm and character.

Minneapolis does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Beaufort or Minneapolis?

Beaufort
Minneapolis

Minneapolis is renowned for shopping. Also, Beaufort is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its shopping opportunities.

Minneapolis is a famous shopping destination with plenty of stores. 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.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Beaufort. Head downtown for some souvenir shopping or to check out the art galleries or fashion boutiques.

Is Beaufort or Minneapolis Better for Families?

Beaufort
Minneapolis

Minneapolis is notable for its family-friendly activities. However, Beaufort is a mediocre town for its kid-friendly activities.

Minneapolis is a very family-friendly place to visit. 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.

Beaufort is not always a place people visit with their families. There are parks and outdoor activities in the area, but one of the best options is to head out of town to the beach.


Is Beaufort or Minneapolis Better for Couples?

Beaufort
Minneapolis

Beaufort is a very popular place for its romantic activities. Also, Minneapolis is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for couples.

Beaufort makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. There are many charming and romantic spots around town as well as historic inns where you can stay. Couples will enjoy the waterfront area or exploring one of the nature parks that are nearby. There are also quaint local restaurants that make for a nice date night.

Minneapolis is a good town for couples to visit. 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 Beaufort or Minneapolis Better for Students?

Beaufort
Minneapolis

Minneapolis is notable for students. However, Beaufort is not popular with students.

Minneapolis is a great city to visit as a student. 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.

Beaufort is not popular with students.

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

Beaufort
Minneapolis

Minneapolis is a nice place to visit for its public transit. However, Beaufort is a mediocre town for times when you don't have a car.

Minneapolis has a few public transit options. There are buses, light rail, and commuter trains that stop at many of the major entertainment centers around town.

Public transit is quite limited in Beaufort. There is no reliable public transportation system in the area.


Is Beaufort or Minneapolis a more walkable city?

Beaufort
Minneapolis

Beaufort 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.

Beaufort is a very walkable town. The quaint downtown is walkable and offers easy access to art galleries, restaurants, and shops.

Minneapolis is a somewhat walkable town. 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 Beaufort Worth Visiting? and Is Minneapolis Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Minneapolis or Beaufort?

How long in Beaufort or Minneapolis?

It's fun to spend time in either Beaufort or Minneapolis. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Minneapolis due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Beaufort, and 2-4 days is enough time in Minneapolis.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Minneapolis than Beaufort 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 Minneapolis.


  • How many days in Beaufort or Minneapolis? Ideal Length of Stay
    Beaufort 1-3 
    Minneapolis 2-4

One day in Beaufort or Minneapolis?

Beaufort is a small town with plenty to do. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. One day should give you a good understanding of everything this town has to offer. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

The city of Minneapolis offers food and shopping. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

A weekend in Beaufort or Minneapolis?

Beaufort might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. This town 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.

Minneapolis is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this city makes for a great vacation. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Minneapolis, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.


Five days in Beaufort or Minneapolis?

Because Beaufort is a small town, it's easy to explore in a short amount of time. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. 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.

Minneapolis is a popular choice for travelers. It's no surprise that shopping is why people visit. 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. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A week in Beaufort or Minneapolis?

Since Beaufort is a small town, it's easily explored when your time is limited. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

Minneapolis is a great place to explore. It's no surprise that shopping is why people visit. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This city offers something for everyone.


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 Beaufort?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Beaufort is $131, 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 Beaufort and Minneapolis in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Beaufort $100
    Minneapolis $110
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Beaufort $200
    Minneapolis $220
Compare Hotels in Beaufort and Minneapolis

Looking for a hotel in Beaufort 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 Beaufort


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: Beaufort Hotel Prices and Minneapolis Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Beaufort -
    Minneapolis $43

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Minneapolis

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

  • Minneapolis Airport (MSP) to Minneapolis - Arrival Private Transfer: $69
  • 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: $138

Is it cheaper to fly into Beaufort or Minneapolis?

Prices for flights to both Minneapolis and Beaufort 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
    Beaufort $31
    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.
    Beaufort -
    Minneapolis $27

Tours and Activities in Beaufort

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Beaufort are as follows:

  • Beaufort Tipsy Tour: $55
  • Gullah Heritage Tour: $49
  • Historic City Tour by Bus: $29
  • Pat Conroy's Beaufort Tour by Golf Cart: $40

Tours and Activities in Minneapolis

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

  • In the Footsteps of Prince: A Self-Guided Audio Tour of Downtown Minneapolis: $7.99
  • Mighty Mississippi Self Guided Minneapolis Riverside Tour: $7.99
  • Minnehaha Falls: A Self-Guided Audio Tour of Minneapolis: $7.99
  • Minnehaha Falls: A Self-Guided Audio Tour of Minneapolis: $7.99
  • Mighty Mississippi: A Self-Guided Riverside Walking Tour: $7.99
  • In the Footsteps of Prince: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $7.99
  • Scavenger Hunt Adventure in Saint Paul by Operation City Quest: $10
  • A Self-Guided Audio Tour of the Riverfront: $11
  • Minnesota Twins Baseball Game Ticket at Target Field: $14
  • St. Paul Historic Cave Tour: $15
  • Experience the season with a scavenger hunt in Minneapolis with Holly Jolly Hunt: $20
  • Lost Souls Tour: $20

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Beaufort -
    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 Beaufort and Minneapolis, we can see that Minneapolis is more expensive. And not only is Beaufort much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Beaufort would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Beaufort 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 Minneapolis would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Minneapolis than you might in Beaufort.

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


Which is Bigger, Beaufort or Minneapolis?

Minneapolis has a larger population, and is about 30 times larger than the population of Beaufort. When comparing the sizes of Beaufort 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 Beaufort or Minneapolis?

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 Beaufort or Minneapolis in the Summer?

Both Minneapolis and Beaufort during the summer are popular places to visit. The summer months attract visitors to Beaufort because of the beaches, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, the city activities and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Minneapolis this time of year.

In the summer, Beaufort is a little warmer than Minneapolis. Typically, the summer temperatures in Beaufort in July average around 82°F (28°C), and Minneapolis averages at about 76°F (25°C).

In Minneapolis, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Beaufort. In the summer, Beaufort often gets less sunshine than Minneapolis. Beaufort gets 267 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Minneapolis receives 357 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Beaufort. Beaufort usually gets more rain in July than Minneapolis. Beaufort gets 7.9 inches (200 mm) of rain, while Minneapolis receives 3.4 inches (86 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Beaufort 82°F (28°C) 
    Minneapolis 76°F (25°C)

Should I visit Beaufort or Minneapolis in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Beaufort and Minneapolis. The shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Beaufort this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Minneapolis for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene.

In October, Beaufort is generally much warmer than Minneapolis. Daily temperatures in Beaufort average around 68°F (20°C), and Minneapolis fluctuates around 52°F (11°C).

In Beaufort, it's very sunny this time of the year. Beaufort usually receives more sunshine than Minneapolis during autumn. Beaufort gets 223 hours of sunny skies, while Minneapolis receives 178 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Beaufort usually receives more rain than Minneapolis. Beaufort gets 2.8 inches (71 mm) of rain, while Minneapolis receives 1.8 inches (45 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Beaufort 68°F (20°C) 
    Minneapolis 52°F (11°C)

Should I visit Beaufort or Minneapolis in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Beaufort as well as Minneapolis. Many travelers come to Beaufort for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Additionally, 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. Beaufort is much warmer than Minneapolis in the winter. The daily temperature in Beaufort averages around 48°F (9°C) in January, and Minneapolis fluctuates around 15°F (-10°C).

In the winter, Beaufort often gets more sunshine than Minneapolis. Beaufort gets 176 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Minneapolis receives 157 hours of full sun.

Beaufort usually gets more rain in January than Minneapolis. Beaufort gets 2.9 inches (74 mm) of rain, while Minneapolis receives 0.9 inches (22 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Beaufort 48°F (9°C) 
    Minneapolis 15°F (-10°C)

Should I visit Beaufort or Minneapolis in the Spring?

Both Minneapolis and Beaufort are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Beaufort in the spring for the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty. Also, most visitors come to Minneapolis for the activities around the city during these months.

In the spring, Beaufort is much warmer than Minneapolis. Typically, the spring temperatures in Beaufort in April average around 67°F (19°C), and Minneapolis averages at about 49°F (10°C).

It's quite sunny in Minneapolis. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Beaufort. Beaufort usually receives more sunshine than Minneapolis during spring. Beaufort gets 275 hours of sunny skies, while Minneapolis receives 244 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Beaufort usually receives more rain than Minneapolis. Beaufort gets 2.9 inches (74 mm) of rain, while Minneapolis receives 2.1 inches (53 mm) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Beaufort 67°F (19°C) 
    Minneapolis 49°F (10°C)

Typical Weather for Minneapolis and Beaufort

Beaufort Minneapolis
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 48°F (9°C) 2.9 inches (74 mm) 15°F (-10°C) 0.9 inches (22 mm)
Feb 52°F (11°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm) 21°F (-6°C) 0.7 inches (19 mm)
Mar 58°F (15°C) 4.4 inches (112 mm) 34°F (1°C) 1.7 inches (43 mm)
Apr 67°F (19°C) 2.9 inches (74 mm) 49°F (10°C) 2.1 inches (53 mm)
May 73°F (23°C) 4.2 inches (107 mm) 62°F (16°C) 2.9 inches (74 mm)
Jun 80°F (26°C) 5.9 inches (150 mm) 71°F (22°C) 3.2 inches (82 mm)
Jul 82°F (28°C) 7.9 inches (200 mm) 76°F (25°C) 3.4 inches (86 mm)
Aug 81°F (27°C) 6.5 inches (164 mm) 73°F (23°C) 2.8 inches (71 mm)
Sep 77°F (25°C) 5.6 inches (141 mm) 64°F (18°C) 2.2 inches (57 mm)
Oct 68°F (20°C) 2.8 inches (71 mm) 52°F (11°C) 1.8 inches (45 mm)
Nov 59°F (15°C) 1.9 inches (49 mm) 36°F (2°C) 1.3 inches (33 mm)
Dec 52°F (11°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm) 21°F (-6°C) 0.9 inches (22 mm)