A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Boca Raton vs. Richmond for Attractions, Food, Nightlife, and Families

Should you visit Boca Raton or Richmond?

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 Boca Raton and Richmond. 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.

Boca Raton

Boca Raton is a luxurious, posh, and outdoorsy coastal city. Other popular activities here include food, scuba diving and snorkeling, and beaches.

Richmond

Richmond is a friendly, historical, and growing city. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food.

Boca Raton and Richmond: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Nice resorts
  • Good scuba and snorkeling destination
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for students


Is there more to do in Boca Raton or Richmond?

Travelers will generally find more things to do in Boca Raton than Richmond. While Richmond is larger than Boca Raton, Boca Raton has more sights and attractions for tourists. Boca Raton is famous for its golf courses, outdoor recreational activities, and safe atmosphere. It is also well known for Red Reef Park. Richmond is famous for its cultural and historical sights.

How is Boca Raton different from Richmond?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Boca Raton or Richmond?

Boca Raton
Richmond

You'll find a number of high quality museums and attractions in both Richmond and Boca Raton.

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around Boca Raton. While most visitors focus on the beaches and outdoor activities in the area, there are also a surprising number of museums that you can visit. On a rainy day head to the Boca Raton Museum of Art or the Schmidt Boca Raton History Museum. Sports enthusiasts will like the Sports Immortals Museum and kids will want to check out the Children's Science Explorium.

Richmond offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. The city has a long history which you can learn about at one of the many museums. There's the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts, the Virginia Museum of History and Culture, and the Black History Museum. There are also landmarks and historical homes.


Is the Food Better in Boca Raton or Richmond? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Boca Raton
Richmond

Boca Raton is notable for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Richmond is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its restaurants.

Dining out in Boca Raton is an experience not to be missed. You'll find a mix of local and international flavors with both casual and upscale dining available. Reservations are recommended, particularly on weekend nights. For the health-conscious, there's also a nice selection of healthy eateries to choose from.

There are plenty of up and coming restaurants around Richmond. The food scene has been growing around town, and there are food halls and local restaurants that serve diverse and interesting dishes. You'll find Indian, Asian, and European restaurants in addition to local classics.

Is Boca Raton or Richmond Better for Nightlife?

Boca Raton
Richmond

Boca Raton is notable for its evening party scene. Also, Richmond is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for nightlife.

Boca Raton has plenty to do after the sun goes down. You'll find plenty of upscale wine bars, cocktail bars, and live music venues that will keep you entertained late into the evening.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Richmond. You'll find diverse bars and clubs around town. Pubs are usually laid back with a relaxed atmosphere. You'll also find live music that includes bluegrass, country, and jazz.

Is Boca Raton or Richmond Better for Resorts?

Boca Raton
Richmond

Boca Raton is notable for its resorts. However, Richmond is not a resort destination.

Vacationers can choose from a number of terrific resorts in Boca Raton. You'll find many luxury beachside resorts that offer all of the amenities, from access to golf course to family-friendly kids clubs.

Richmond is not a resort destination.


Is Boca Raton or Richmond Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Boca Raton
Richmond

Boca Raton is very good for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Richmond is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

It's worth going snorkeling or scuba diving in Boca Raton. Head to the "Aqua Zoo", which is just to the south of Boca Inlet to see stingrays, groupers, and moray eels. Red Reef Park offers excellent snorkeling as well.

Richmond is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Boca Raton or Richmond Better for Beaches?

Boca Raton
Richmond

Boca Raton is a world-class destination for the beach. However, Richmond is not a beach destination.

With world-famous beaches, Boca Raton is a very popular vacation destination. There's a two mile stretch of beautiful sandy beaches that are all monitored by lifeguards. The beaches offer all of the facilities that you might need such as picnic areas, restrooms, and showers. Many beaches are part of park land and some offer nice snorkeling. Some of the most popular beaches in the area include Spanish River Park, Bark Park Dog Beach, Red Reef Beach, and South Beach Park.

Richmond is not a beach destination.

Is Boca Raton or Richmond Better for Hiking?

Boca Raton
Richmond

Boca Raton is very good for the nearby hiking options. However, Richmond is not a hiking destination.

Many people include a hike when visiting Boca Raton. There's a surprising number of nature parks in the area that have hiking trails, nature walks, and beach paths that are fun to explore.

Richmond is not a hiking destination.


Is the Shopping Better in Boca Raton or Richmond?

Boca Raton
Richmond

Boca Raton is notable for its shopping areas. Also, Richmond is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for shopping.

Browsing through shops is a popular activity in Boca Raton. It's an upscale area, and you'll find no shortage of luxury shopping around town. Popular areas for shopping include Downtown Boca, Mizner Park, and the Town Center at Boca Raton.

Plenty of visitors enjoy shopping while in Richmond. You'll find shopping malls and shopping centers around town, but there are also eclectic shopping streets and boutique outlets.

Is Boca Raton or Richmond Better for Families?

Boca Raton
Richmond

Boca Raton is notable for its family-friendly activities. Also, Richmond is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

Boca Raton is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. It's an upscale area with a family-friendly atmosphere and plenty of outdoor activities to choose from. Many of the hotels have kids clubs that will keep the young ones entertained. The area also has nature centers, children's museums, and waterparks that will ensure everyone stays entertained.

Richmond is a family-friendly coastal city. The Children's Museum of Richmond offers hands-on exhibits that will keep young ones entertained. Another fun option is the Science Museum of Virginia. The city also has parks and outdoor places to explore as well as playgrounds and kid-friendly restaurants.

Is Boca Raton or Richmond Better for Couples?

Boca Raton
Richmond

Boca Raton is notable for couples. Also, Richmond is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for romance.

Boca Raton is a very popular place to visit for couples. There's an upscale vibe with plenty of nature trails and nice beaches. Many of the hotels offer a touch of luxury that honeymooning couples will appreciate. You can also head to the downtown area for music, events, and museums.

Richmond is a nice destination for couples. Kayaking or tubing on the James River is a great activity for couples. There are also museums and many restaurants that are perfect for a date night.


Is Boca Raton or Richmond Better for Students?

Boca Raton
Richmond

Richmond is a good destination for its student-friendly activities. However, Boca Raton is not popular with students.

It's common for students to visit Richmond. There are a couple of colleges and universities in town such as Virginia Commonwealth University.

Boca Raton is not popular with students.

Is Boca Raton or Richmond Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Boca Raton
Richmond

Boca Raton is very good for its public transit. However, Richmond is a mediocre city for times when you don't have a car.

Boca Raton has a few public transit options. The Downtowner is a fleet of free, oversized golf cars that shuttle visitors around town, passing by many top sites such as Mizner Park, Red Reef Park, and the Gumbo Limbo Nature Center. There's also a public bus system, Palm Tran, that offers service around town.

Public transit is mostly limited in Richmond. There are buses around town, but the availability and reliability is limited.

Is Boca Raton or Richmond a more walkable city?

Boca Raton
Richmond

Boca Raton and Richmond are nice when it comes to walkability.

Boca Raton is a somewhat walkable coastal city. There are some communities within the city that are more walkable than others, particularly East Boca Raton, Royal Palm Place, and Mizner Park. There are also many pedestrian and bike paths around town. Even so, you really must have a car to explore the area in depth.

Richmond is somewhat walkable. There are some walkable neighborhoods such as the Fan and Museum District, but most people prefer to get around by car.


For even more information, also check out Is Boca Raton Worth Visiting? and Is Richmond Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Richmond or Boca Raton?

How long in Boca Raton or Richmond?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Boca Raton or Richmond to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Boca Raton than Richmond because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 3-5 days is a good amount of time for Boca Raton, and 1-2 days is enough time in Richmond.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Boca Raton than Richmond 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 Boca Raton.


  • How many days in Boca Raton or Richmond? Ideal Length of Stay
    Boca Raton 3-5 
    Richmond 1-2

One day in Boca Raton or Richmond?

The coastal city of Boca Raton offers museums and nightlife. Most people come for the beaches. 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.

With museums and nightlife around the historical city of Richmond, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Richmond, one day is sufficent for most.

A weekend in Boca Raton or Richmond?

Boca Raton is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

With nightlife and food around the destination of Richmond, there's plenty to do. It offers something for everyone. Many people spend a weekend here. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this city.

Five days in Boca Raton or Richmond?

Boca Raton is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. It's no surprise that beaches is why people visit. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Boca Raton, five days is sufficent for most. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Richmond, a popular city, is full of activities for travelers. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.


A week in Boca Raton or Richmond?

Boca Raton is a great place to explore. It's no surprise that beaches is why people visit. It's also a great beach destination, too. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This coastal city offers something for everyone.

Richmond 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.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Historical Tours in United States of America, The Best 10-Day Tours in United States of America, The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in United States of America, and The Best 2-Week Tours in United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Richmond or Boca Raton?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Boca Raton is $283, while the average daily cost in Richmond is $161. 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 Boca Raton and Richmond in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Boca Raton $171
    Richmond $101
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Boca Raton $342
    Richmond $202
Compare Hotels in Boca Raton and Richmond

Looking for a hotel in Boca Raton or Richmond? 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 Boca Raton


Hotels in Richmond


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: Boca Raton Hotel Prices and Richmond Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Boca Raton $76
    Richmond $72

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Boca Raton

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

  • Delray Beach to Fort Lauderdale Airport (FLL) - Departure Private Transfer: $40
  • Boynton Beach to Fort Lauderdale Airport (FLL) - Departure Private Transfer: $40
  • Boca Raton to Miami Airport (MIA) - Departure Private Transfer: $44
  • Delray Beach to Miami Airport (MIA) - Departure Private Transfer: $49
  • Boca Raton to Fort Lauderdale Airport (FLL)- Departure Private Transfer: $52
  • Boynton Beach to Miami Airport (MIA) - Departure Private Transfer: $54
  • Boca Raton Private Transfer to FLL (UP TO 14 PASS): $80
  • Private Delray Beach Transfer and Fort Lauderdale Airport: $84
  • Private Transfer from West Palm Beach to (FLL) Airport: $115

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Richmond

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Richmond:

  • Richmond Airport (RIC) to Richmond City - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $72
  • Richmond City to Richmond Airport (RIC) - Departure Private Transfer: $38
  • Richmond Airport (RIC) to Richmond city - Arrival Private Transfer: $36

Is it cheaper to fly into Boca Raton or Richmond?

Prices for flights to both Richmond and Boca Raton 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
    Boca Raton $67
    Richmond $21

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Boca Raton

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

  • Delray Beach Dinner & Drinks Tour: $109

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Richmond

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Richmond.

  • The Carytown Food Tour in Richmond: $80
  • Church Hill Food Tour in Richmond, VA: $80
  • Church Hill Food Tour: $80
  • Trendy Carytown Food Tour: $80
  • Arts District Food Tour in Richmond: $85
  • Arts District Walking Food Tour: $85
  • Delicious Pizza & Ice Cream Tour of Richmond: $90
  • Pizza & Ice Cream Tour: $90

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Boca Raton $28
    Richmond $13

Tours and Activities in Boca Raton

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

  • Delray Beach Food & Drinks Tour: $104
  • Boca Raton on High Speed Train with Millionaire Home Boat Tour: $150
  • Boca Raton on High Speed Train with Millionaire Home Boat Tour: $160
  • Boca Raton-Delray Beach 1-Hour Private Jet Ski Guided Tour: $165

Tours and Activities in Richmond

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

  • Amazing Scavenger Hunt Adventure in Richmond: $44
  • Church Hill Chillers Ghost Tour: $25
  • Church Hill Segway Tour in Richmond: $80
  • Discover Downtown Richmond Bike Tour: $125
  • Guided Walking Tour of Richmond: $38
  • Haunted Capitol Hill Ghost Tour: $30
  • Historic Trolley Tour: $38
  • Hollywood Cemetery Segway Tour in Richmond: $76
  • Hollywood Cemetery Tour Richmond Lore and Civil War: $24
  • Phantoms of Franklin Ghost Tour: $30
  • RVATukTuk Sightseeing Tour of Richmond: $187
  • Richmond Downtown Walking Tour: $38

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Boca Raton $40
    Richmond -

Sample the Local Flavors in Richmond

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

  • Richmond Ghosts Boos and Booze Haunted Pub Crawl : $34
  • Richmond Ghosts Boos and Booze Haunted Pub Crawl: $35
  • Drink Richmond Craft Brewery Crawl: $74
  • Richmond Craft Brewery Crawl By Junket: $74
  • Brewery Tour of Richmond, VA: $90


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

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


Which is Bigger, Boca Raton or Richmond?

Richmond has a larger population, and is about 2 times larger than the population of Boca Raton. When comparing the sizes of Boca Raton and Richmond, 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 Boca Raton or Richmond?

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 Boca Raton or Richmond in the Summer?

Both Richmond and Boca Raton during the summer are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Boca Raton for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Richmond in the summer for the family-friendly experiences.

Boca Raton is around the same temperature as Richmond in the summer. The daily temperature in Boca Raton averages around 82°F (28°C) in July, and Richmond fluctuates around 78°F (26°C).

In Richmond, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Boca Raton. In the summer, Boca Raton often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Richmond. Boca Raton gets 316 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Richmond receives 305 hours of full sun.

Richmond gets a good bit of rain this time of year. It rains a lot this time of the year in Boca Raton. Boca Raton usually gets more rain in July than Richmond. Boca Raton gets 6.5 inches (166 mm) of rain, while Richmond receives 5 inches (128 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Boca Raton 82°F (28°C) 
    Richmond 78°F (26°C)

Should I visit Boca Raton or Richmond in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Boca Raton and Richmond. Many visitors come to Boca Raton in the autumn for the hiking trails and the shopping scene. Also, most visitors come to Richmond for the shopping scene during these months.

In the autumn, Boca Raton is much warmer than Richmond. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Boca Raton in October average around 78°F (25°C), and Richmond averages at about 59°F (15°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Richmond this time of the year. In Boca Raton, it's very sunny this time of the year. Boca Raton usually receives more sunshine than Richmond during autumn. Boca Raton gets 275 hours of sunny skies, while Richmond receives 221 hours of full sun in the autumn.

Boca Raton gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In October, Boca Raton usually receives more rain than Richmond. Boca Raton gets 8.7 inches (222 mm) of rain, while Richmond receives 3.5 inches (90 mm) of rain each month for the autumn. June to November in Boca Raton is the hurricane season.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Boca Raton 78°F (25°C) 
    Richmond 59°F (15°C)

Should I visit Boca Raton or Richmond in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Boca Raton as well as Richmond. Most visitors come to Boca Raton for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Richmond because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

The weather in Richmond can be very cold. In January, Boca Raton is generally much warmer than Richmond. Daily temperatures in Boca Raton average around 65°F (19°C), and Richmond fluctuates around 36°F (2°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Boca Raton this time of the year. In the winter, Boca Raton often gets more sunshine than Richmond. Boca Raton gets 243 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Richmond receives 169 hours of full sun.

Boca Raton usually gets less rain in January than Richmond. Boca Raton gets 2.6 inches (66 mm) of rain, while Richmond receives 3.2 inches (83 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Boca Raton 65°F (19°C) 
    Richmond 36°F (2°C)

Should I visit Boca Raton or Richmond in the Spring?

Both Richmond and Boca Raton are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The spring months attract visitors to Boca Raton because of the beaches.

Boca Raton is much warmer than Richmond in the spring. The daily temperature in Boca Raton averages around 74°F (23°C) in April, and Richmond fluctuates around 58°F (14°C).

It's quite sunny in Richmond. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Boca Raton. Boca Raton usually receives more sunshine than Richmond during spring. Boca Raton gets 300 hours of sunny skies, while Richmond receives 265 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Boca Raton usually receives more rain than Richmond. Boca Raton gets 3.5 inches (89 mm) of rain, while Richmond receives 3 inches (75 mm) of rain each month for the spring. The hurricane season in Boca Raton is June to November.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Boca Raton 74°F (23°C) 
    Richmond 58°F (14°C)

Typical Weather for Richmond and Boca Raton

Boca Raton Richmond
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 65°F (19°C) 2.6 inches (66 mm) 36°F (2°C) 3.2 inches (83 mm)
Feb 66°F (19°C) 2.6 inches (66 mm) 39°F (4°C) 3.2 inches (80 mm)
Mar 70°F (21°C) 3.3 inches (84 mm) 49°F (9°C) 3.6 inches (92 mm)
Apr 74°F (23°C) 3.5 inches (89 mm) 58°F (14°C) 3 inches (75 mm)
May 78°F (25°C) 5.2 inches (131 mm) 67°F (19°C) 3.8 inches (98 mm)
Jun 81°F (27°C) 8.1 inches (207 mm) 74°F (24°C) 3.6 inches (92 mm)
Jul 82°F (28°C) 6.5 inches (166 mm) 78°F (26°C) 5 inches (128 mm)
Aug 83°F (28°C) 6.9 inches (176 mm) 77°F (25°C) 4.4 inches (113 mm)
Sep 81°F (27°C) 9.8 inches (250 mm) 71°F (21°C) 3.3 inches (85 mm)
Oct 78°F (25°C) 8.7 inches (222 mm) 59°F (15°C) 3.5 inches (90 mm)
Nov 72°F (22°C) 2.5 inches (63 mm) 50°F (10°C) 3.2 inches (81 mm)
Dec 67°F (20°C) 2.2 inches (56 mm) 41°F (5°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm)