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

Should you visit Boston or Cleveland?

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 Boston and Cleveland. 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.

Boston

Boston is a loyal, historic, and traditional city. It's a large city with plenty of activites for visitors as well. It's a gorgeous place to visit. This is a quaint and attractive place to visit, too. Other reasons to visit include shopping, museums, and theater.

Cleveland

Cleveland is a under-rated, diverse, and authentic city. It's also known for nightlife, live music, and shopping.

Boston and Cleveland: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Boston or Cleveland?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Boston than Cleveland, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Boston is more popular for its museums, theatre productions, food, nightlife, beaches, historical sights, christmas markets, big city activities, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere, while Cleveland is known for its music. Boston is more touristy than Cleveland and is popular for its enthusiastic sports fans, influential history, beautiful parks, and world-class universities. It is also home to The Freedom Trail. Cleveland is popular for being the home to "rock 'n roll" as well as its friendly and hard working people.

How is Boston different from Cleveland?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Boston or Cleveland?

Boston is an amazing city to visit for its museums and history. Also, Cleveland is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its museums and landmarks.

Travelers visit Boston from around the world to see its many world-famous attractions. The city itself feels like a living museum. It is famous for Faneuil Hall, the Museum of Fine Arts, the Isabelle Stewart Gardner Museum, the USS Constitution, as well as the many sites along the Freedom Trail. There are also many museums on the campuses of the world renowned universities in the city.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into Cleveland. There are diverse museums around town such as the Cleveland Museum of Art, the Museum of Contemporary Art (moCa), and the Great Lakes Science Center. Music lovers will appreciate a visit to the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame.

Is Boston or Cleveland Better for Theater?

Boston is a very popular place for theatre. However, Cleveland is not a theatre destination.

Many visitors plan to see a show while visiting Boston. The city has many historic, beautifully restored theaters where you can enjoy a show. Head to the theater district for some of the most famous venues.

Cleveland is not a theatre destination.

Is the Food Better in Boston or Cleveland? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Boston is a very popular place for its restaurants. However, Cleveland is lacking in good options for its restaurant scene.

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in Boston. There are many local dishes that utilize fresh caught seafood and comfort food flavors. The cuisine also takes advantage of the city's Italian and Irish populations. Famous local foods include New England Clam Chowder, lobster rolls, and baked beans. You'll find hearty sandwiches and filling meals that warm your soul.

You'll find the standard options when it comes to food in Cleveland. Casual dining with comfort food is the way most residents prefer to eat. There are local foods that have made a name for themselves such as gourmet hot dogs and deli sandwiches. The food is also influenced by the city's German, Irish, Polish, and Italian roots. Pierogis, bratwurst, and chicken paprikash are all common.

Is Boston or Cleveland Better for Nightlife?

Boston is a very popular place for nightlife. Also, Cleveland is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for nightlife and partying.

Boston has a large number of nightlife venues. The city is known for its breweries, craft beer, and vibrant university neighborhoods. It also hosts regular outdoor movies and world class sporting events. The nightlife scene is varied, with some areas catering to the student population and other areas focused on the professional or sport-loving crowds.

Cleveland has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. Breweries have become a popular nighttime activity. There are also comedy clubs, music venues, and several theaters.

Is Boston or Cleveland Better for Music?

Cleveland is notable for live music. Also, Boston is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its live music scene.

If you love music, you'll find something to enjoy in Cleveland. Home to the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame, it has long been a destination for music enthusiasts. There are many independent music venues and it's the perfect place to catch a show.

The music scene in Boston is active and vibrant. Popular music venues include Lizard Lounge, Blue Hills Bank Pavilion, and The Middle East.

Is Boston or Cleveland Better for Beaches?

Boston is a decent place to visit for its beaches. However, Cleveland is not a beach destination.

Boston is a good spot to see the beach. There are a few urban beaches in the greater Boston area that you can explore on a nice day.

Cleveland is not a beach destination.

Is Boston or Cleveland Better for its Old Town?

Boston is an amazing city to visit for its historic old town. However, Cleveland does not have a historic old town.

Boston offers visitors a world-class historical old town to explore. Boston is famous for its Freedom Trail, which takes visitors around the city's rich history. The oldest parts of the city are known as Boston Proper and include the neighborhoods of Beacon Hill, Historic Downtown, the North End, and the West End.

Cleveland does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Boston or Cleveland?

Both Boston and Cleveland are good shopping destinations.

Boston is a great destination for shopping. Head to Back Bay for some of the best high end shops. There are luxury brands and boutique venues that sell local art or crafts.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Cleveland. Large shopping malls offer plenty of selection. There's also West Side Market, which is the oldest public market in the city. Other interesting shopping areas include Little Italy and the Cleveland Flea.

Is Boston or Cleveland Better for Christmas?

Boston is a very popular place for its Christmas holiday experiences. However, Cleveland does not offer Christmas activities.

Since it has plenty to do, Boston is a very popular place to visit during Christmas. Christmas comes to life in the city with its Christmas Trees, holiday shows, and festivals.

Cleveland does not offer Christmas activities.

Is Boston or Cleveland Better for Christmas Markets?

Boston is a very popular place for visiting Christmas markets. However, Cleveland does not offer Christmas markets.

The Christmas markets in Boston offer plenty to see during the holidays. There are a number of European style Christmas markets that pop up during the holiday season around town.

Cleveland does not offer Christmas markets.

Is Boston or Cleveland Better for Families?

Boston is an amazing city to visit for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Cleveland is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

Boston is an amazing family-friendly city to visit. It's filled with history, but there are also many activities for kids who need a break from all of the historical stuff. Popular activities for all ages include the Museum of Science, the New England Aquarium, and exploring the waterfront, gardens, and parks around town.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Cleveland. Kid-friendly activities in the area include the Children’s Museum of Cleveland, the Great Lakes Science Center, and the Cleveland Museum of Natural History. There's also the Cleveland Metroparks Zoo as well as the smaller Akron Zoo.

Is Boston or Cleveland Better for Couples?

Boston is a nice place to visit for romance. However, Cleveland is lacking in good options for its romantic activities.

Boston is a nice destination for couples. Couples who enjoy history will enjoy exploring the city. Take a swan boat ride in the Public Garden and wander the unique route along the Freedom Trail. There are also many sporting and entertainment options around town.

Most people don't think of Cleveland as a couple's destination. There are several romantic date night activities like boat rides on Lake Erie or dining at a nice restaurant.

Is Boston or Cleveland Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Boston is a nice place to visit for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Cleveland is lacking in good options for backpackers.

It's common for backpackers to visit Boston. Like most larger American cities, the city has a handful of hostels to choose from.

Cleveland is not the best destination for backpackers and budget travelers due to its high prices. There's little in the area that attracts the backpacker crowd.

Is Boston or Cleveland Better for Students?

Boston is an amazing city to visit for its student-friendly activities. However, Cleveland is not popular with students.

Boston is a great destination for students. It is a city of students, with a number of world renowned universities located here including Harvard University, Boston College, and MIT. Many neighborhoods are filled with students and there are many student-centered activities around town including festivals and an active nightlife scene.

Cleveland is not popular with students.

Is Boston or Cleveland Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Boston is an amazing city to visit for times when you don't have a car. However, Cleveland is lacking in good options for its public transit.

Public transit in Boston is top-notch. There's the T, which is the subway, as well as a trolley, bus, and water transportation system.

Public transit is generally limited in Cleveland. There are bus, trolley, and train lines through the city, but a car is the most efficient way to get around.

Is Boston or Cleveland a more walkable city?

Boston is an amazing city to visit for its walkability. However, Cleveland is lacking in good options for its high level of walkability.

It's very easy to get around on foot in Boston. The many parks and compact neighborhoods are best explored on foot.

Cleveland is generally not very walkable. While some neighborhoods are more walkable than others (Downtown, Ohio City and Buckeye - Shaker), most visitors need a car to easily access everything they wish to do.

For even more information, also check out Is Boston Worth Visiting? and Is Cleveland Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Cleveland or Boston?

How long in Boston or Cleveland?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Boston and Cleveland. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Boston than in Cleveland. Usually, 3-5 days is a good amount of time for Boston, and 1-3 days is enough time in Cleveland.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Boston than Cleveland 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 Boston.

One day in Boston or Cleveland?

People visit Boston because there is so much to do. Visiting the old town is also a must. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Many travelers enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the destination of Cleveland. One day is often enough time to do most activities.

A weekend in Boston or Cleveland?

People visit Boston because there is so much to do. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Cleveland is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Five days in Boston or Cleveland?

People visit Boston because there is so much to do. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this city makes for a great vacation. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Most people head to the area for the museums. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Cleveland. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A week in Boston or Cleveland?

Boston is a popular choice for travelers. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. One week 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. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the under-rated destination of Cleveland. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

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.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Boston or Cleveland?

Boston has a larger population, and is about 31% larger than the population of Cleveland. When comparing the sizes of Boston and Cleveland, 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 Boston or Cleveland?

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 Boston or Cleveland in the Summer?

Both Cleveland and Boston during the summer are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Boston in the summer for the beaches, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, most visitors come to Cleveland for the music scene and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

Boston is around the same temperature as Cleveland in the summer. The daily temperature in Boston averages around 73°F (23°C) in July, and Cleveland fluctuates around 75°F (24°C).

In Cleveland, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Boston. In the summer, Boston often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Cleveland. Boston gets 304 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Cleveland receives 307 hours of full sun.

Cleveland gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Boston usually gets less rain in July than Cleveland. Boston gets 2.9 inches (74 mm) of rain, while Cleveland receives 4 inches (101 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Boston or Cleveland in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Boston and Cleveland. Most visitors come to Boston for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months. Furthermore, the autumn months attract visitors to Cleveland because of the shopping scene and the music scene.

In the autumn, Boston is around the same temperature as Cleveland. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Boston in October average around 54°F (12°C), and Cleveland averages at about 56°F (13°C).

Boston usually receives more sunshine than Cleveland during autumn. Boston gets 194 hours of sunny skies, while Cleveland receives 165 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Boston usually receives more rain than Cleveland. Boston gets 3.3 inches (84 mm) of rain, while Cleveland receives 1.9 inches (49 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Boston or Cleveland in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Boston as well as Cleveland. The winter months attract visitors to Boston because of the museums, the Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine. Additionally, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Cleveland this time of year.

It's quite cold in Cleveland in the winter. The weather in Boston can be very cold. In January, Boston is generally a little warmer than Cleveland. Daily temperatures in Boston average around 29°F (-2°C), and Cleveland fluctuates around 28°F (-2°C).

In the winter, Boston often gets more sunshine than Cleveland. Boston gets 153 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Cleveland receives 95 hours of full sun.

Boston usually gets more rain in January than Cleveland. Boston gets 3.4 inches (87 mm) of rain, while Cleveland receives 1.5 inches (39 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Boston or Cleveland in the Spring?

Both Cleveland and Boston are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty are the main draw to Boston this time of year.

Boston is cooler than Cleveland in the spring. The daily temperature in Boston averages around 48°F (9°C) in April, and Cleveland fluctuates around 51°F (10°C).

It's quite sunny in Cleveland. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Boston. Boston usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Cleveland during spring. Boston gets 225 hours of sunny skies, while Cleveland receives 213 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Boston usually receives more rain than Cleveland. Boston gets 3.5 inches (89 mm) of rain, while Cleveland receives 2.8 inches (71 mm) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Cleveland and Boston