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

Should you visit Beaufort or Providence?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Beaufort or Providence, 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 southern, charming, and historic town. With plenty of activities and sights, this is a small town worth visiting. It offers plenty of beauty for visitors. Since it has a quaint atmosphere, you'll want to spend time soaking it all in. It's also popular because of the museums, food, and beaches.

Providence

Providence is a friendly, fascinating, and active city. It's also known for nightlife, food, and shopping.

Beaufort and Providence: 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 family-friendly
  • Public transit not as usable
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for students
  • Good public transit


Is there more to do in Beaufort or Providence?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Beaufort than Providence, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Beaufort is better known for its beaches, historical sights, small town charm, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere, while Providence is more popular for its nightlife. Beaufort is more touristy than Providence and is popular for its Lowcountry cuisine and historic homes. Also, Beaufort is famous for Henry C. Chambers Waterfront Park. Providence is well known for its outdoor parks, historic atmosphere, and college town vibe.

How is Beaufort different from Providence?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Beaufort
Providence

Both Beaufort and Providence have notable landmarks and museums for visitors.

Beaufort is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. 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.

Providence offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. There are several historical museums around town as well as art museums, zoos, a planetarium and natural history museum, and even a children's museum.


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

Beaufort
Providence

There are opportunities to sample the local cuisine at great restaurants in both Beaufort and Providence.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Beaufort makes for a great culinary experience. 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.

Providence has a huge number of terrific restaurants. The food scene around town has grown and diversified in recent years. You'll find a mix of international and local options and for such a small city, it really has a lot to offer.

Is Beaufort or Providence Better for Nightlife?

Beaufort
Providence

Providence is a nice place to visit for nightlife. However, Beaufort is a mediocre town for nightlife and partying.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Providence. Comedy clubs, bars, and clubs keep the energy high during the evening hours. It's not hard to find something to do, particularly on weekend nights.

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 Providence Better for Beaches?

Beaufort
Providence

Beaufort is a good destination for the beach. However, Providence is not a beach destination.

Beaufort offers a nice beach destination. 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.

Providence is not a beach destination.


Is Beaufort or Providence Better for its Old Town?

Beaufort
Providence

Beaufort is a great town for its historic old town charm. However, Providence does not have a historic old town.

There are many historical things to see in the old town of Beaufort. 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.

Providence does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Beaufort or Providence?

Beaufort
Providence

Both Beaufort and Providence are notable shopping destinations.

Beaufort is a great destination for shopping. Head downtown for some souvenir shopping or to check out the art galleries or fashion boutiques.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Providence. Malls, shopping centers, and boutiques all offer a range of shopping experiences around town.

Is Beaufort or Providence Better for Families?

Beaufort
Providence

Providence is a nice place to visit for its family-friendly activities. However, Beaufort is a mediocre town for its kid-friendly activities.

Providence is a family-friendly place to visit. There are opportunities for kids to interact with animals at the Roger Williams Park Zoo, as well as plenty of places for kids to run around like Rocky Point Park or Goddard Memorial State Park. There's also the Providence Children's Museum, go carting, and entertainment centers.

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 Providence Better for Couples?

Beaufort
Providence

Beaufort is a great town for couples. Also, Providence is not as popular, but is still a nice city for romance.

Beaufort is a great town if you're traveling as 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.

Providence is a nice destination for couples. You can see a show at the Providence Performing Arts Center or visit some of the city's historic buildings and museums. There are also parks and coastal walks as well as many great restaurants.

Is Beaufort or Providence Better for Students?

Beaufort
Providence

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

Providence is a great city to visit as a student. There's a college town vibe to this small city because it's home to Brown University, which is a member of the Ivy League.

Beaufort is not popular with students.

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

Beaufort
Providence

Providence 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.

Providence has a few public transit options. There are RIPTA buses that travel around town.

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


Is Beaufort or Providence a more walkable city?

Beaufort
Providence

Beaufort and Providence both are great when exploring on foot.

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

Providence is a very walkable town. It's a walkable city and it's relatively easy to explore on foot.

For even more information, also check out Is Beaufort Worth Visiting? and Is Providence Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Providence or Beaufort?

How long in Beaufort or Providence?

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

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

Couples should spend more time in Beaufort than Providence. 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 Providence 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 Providence.


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

One day in Beaufort or Providence?

Beaufort might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Beaufort, one day is sufficent for most.

The city of Providence 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 Providence?

Even though Beaufort is a small town, it has plenty of activities to choose from. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. It offers something for everyone. Many people spend a weekend here. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this town.

Providence 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 Providence, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.


Five days in Beaufort or Providence?

Beaufort, a popular town, is full of activities for travelers. Visiting the old town is also a must. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Providence is a popular choice for travelers. 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 Providence?

Beaufort is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Providence is a great place to explore. 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, Providence 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 Providence is $210. 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 Providence in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Beaufort $100
    Providence $114
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Beaufort $200
    Providence $228
Compare Hotels in Beaufort and Providence

Looking for a hotel in Beaufort or Providence? 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 Providence


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 Providence Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Beaufort -
    Providence $46

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Providence

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

  • Private Departure Transfer to Providence TF Green Airport PVD: $36
  • Providence to Rhode Island Airport PVD Departure Transfer : $46
  • T. F. Green State Airport (PVD) to Providence – Arrival Private Transfer : $46
  • Private Transfer from Providence Airport (PVD) to Newport Port : $49
  • Private Transfer from Providence City Hotels to Newport Port: $61
  • T. F. Green State Airport (PVD) to Providence - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $92
  • Providence to Boston’s Logan International Airport - Departure Private Transfer: $170
  • New York’s JFK International Airport to Providence – Departure Private Transfer: $272

Is it cheaper to fly into Beaufort or Providence?

Prices for flights to both Providence 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
    Providence $48

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Providence

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

  • Downcity Providence Food Tour: $89

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Beaufort -
    Providence $26

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 Providence

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Providence.

  • Providence Scavenger Hunt: Providence Adventure: $12
  • Self-Driving Audio Tour: $13
  • Providence, RI: Murder Mystery Detective Experience: $15
  • Downtown Providence Self-Driving Audio Tour: $15
  • Murder Mystery Detective Experience Providence, RI: $15
  • Ghosts, Phantoms and Poltergeists Walking Tour: $26
  • Providence Ghosts Phantoms and Poltergeists Tour: $30
  • Parasols and Pocket Watches: A History Tour: $30
  • Haunted History Walking Tour of Providence: $30
  • Providence Mob Walking Tour: $33
  • The Creative Capital: An Art and Architecture Tour of Providence: $35
  • Power and Politics: The Struggle for the Soul of Providence Tour: $35

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Beaufort -
    Providence $13

Sample the Local Flavors in Providence

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Providence:

  • Vineyard Voyages - Floating Wine Tasting: $65


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Beaufort and Providence, we can see that Providence 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 Providence would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Providence 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 Providence Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Beaufort or Providence?

Providence has a larger population, and is about 10 times larger than the population of Beaufort. When comparing the sizes of Beaufort and Providence, 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 Providence?

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 Providence in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Beaufort as well as Providence. Many travelers come to Beaufort for the beaches, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Providence in the summer for the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Beaufort is generally a little warmer than Providence. Daily temperatures in Beaufort average around 82°F (28°C), and Providence fluctuates around 73°F (23°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Providence. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Beaufort this time of the year. In the summer, Beaufort often gets less sunshine than Providence. Beaufort gets 267 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Providence receives 293 hours of full sun.

Beaufort receives a lot of rain in the summer. Beaufort usually gets more rain in July than Providence. Beaufort gets 7.9 inches (200 mm) of rain, while Providence receives 2.8 inches (72 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Beaufort 82°F (28°C) 
    Providence 73°F (23°C)

Should I visit Beaufort or Providence in the Autumn?

Both Providence and Beaufort are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Beaufort in the autumn for the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, most visitors come to Providence for the shopping scene during these months.

Beaufort is much warmer than Providence in the autumn. The daily temperature in Beaufort averages around 68°F (20°C) in October, and Providence fluctuates around 53°F (12°C).

It's quite sunny in Providence. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Beaufort. Beaufort usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Providence during autumn. Beaufort gets 223 hours of sunny skies, while Providence receives 211 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Beaufort usually receives less rain than Providence. Beaufort gets 2.8 inches (71 mm) of rain, while Providence receives 3.3 inches (83 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Beaufort 68°F (20°C) 
    Providence 53°F (12°C)

Should I visit Beaufort or Providence in the Winter?

Both Providence and Beaufort during the winter are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Beaufort for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Furthermore, the winter months attract visitors to Providence because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

The weather in Providence can be very cold. In the winter, Beaufort is much warmer than Providence. Typically, the winter temperatures in Beaufort in January average around 48°F (9°C), and Providence averages at about 28°F (-2°C).

In the winter, Beaufort often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Providence. Beaufort gets 176 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Providence receives 170 hours of full sun.

Beaufort usually gets less rain in January than Providence. Beaufort gets 2.9 inches (74 mm) of rain, while Providence receives 3.5 inches (89 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Beaufort 48°F (9°C) 
    Providence 28°F (-2°C)

Should I visit Beaufort or Providence in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Beaufort and Providence. The spring months attract visitors to Beaufort because of the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty.

In April, Beaufort is generally much warmer than Providence. Daily temperatures in Beaufort average around 67°F (19°C), and Providence fluctuates around 48°F (9°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Providence this time of the year. In Beaufort, it's very sunny this time of the year. Beaufort usually receives more sunshine than Providence during spring. Beaufort gets 275 hours of sunny skies, while Providence receives 225 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Beaufort usually receives less rain than Providence. Beaufort gets 2.9 inches (74 mm) of rain, while Providence receives 3.7 inches (94 mm) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Beaufort 67°F (19°C) 
    Providence 48°F (9°C)

Typical Weather for Providence and Beaufort

Beaufort Providence
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 48°F (9°C) 2.9 inches (74 mm) 28°F (-2°C) 3.5 inches (89 mm)
Feb 52°F (11°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm) 30°F (-1°C) 3.5 inches (88 mm)
Mar 58°F (15°C) 4.4 inches (112 mm) 38°F (3°C) 4 inches (101 mm)
Apr 67°F (19°C) 2.9 inches (74 mm) 48°F (9°C) 3.7 inches (94 mm)
May 73°F (23°C) 4.2 inches (107 mm) 58°F (15°C) 3.5 inches (89 mm)
Jun 80°F (26°C) 5.9 inches (150 mm) 67°F (20°C) 2.6 inches (67 mm)
Jul 82°F (28°C) 7.9 inches (200 mm) 73°F (23°C) 2.8 inches (72 mm)
Aug 81°F (27°C) 6.5 inches (164 mm) 72°F (22°C) 3.9 inches (99 mm)
Sep 77°F (25°C) 5.6 inches (141 mm) 64°F (18°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm)
Oct 68°F (20°C) 2.8 inches (71 mm) 53°F (12°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm)
Nov 59°F (15°C) 1.9 inches (49 mm) 44°F (7°C) 4.5 inches (115 mm)
Dec 52°F (11°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm) 33°F (0°C) 4.1 inches (105 mm)