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

Should you visit Boston or Detroit?

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 Detroit. 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. Travelers will also find plenty of sights and attractions here, as it's a big city that attracts lots of visitors. It's a beautiful place to visit, too. This destination also has one of those special and quaint feelings. Visitors also love the live music, food, and shopping.

Detroit

Detroit is a under-rated, hardworking, and overlooked city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. It's also known for live music, food, and shopping.

Boston and Detroit: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Boston or Detroit?

Travelers will generally find more things to do in Boston than Detroit. While Detroit is larger than Boston, Boston has more sights and attractions for tourists. Boston is very popular for its museums, theatre productions, food, beaches, historical sights, christmas markets, big city activities, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere, while Detroit attracts visitors for its music. Boston is more touristy than Detroit and is popular for its enthusiastic sports fans, influential history, beautiful parks, and world-class universities. It is also well known for The Freedom Trail. Detroit is famous for its Motown music, blue collar atmosphere, and influential auto industry.

How is Boston different from Detroit?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Boston is an unbeatable place for its museums and history. Also, Detroit is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its museums and landmarks.

The museums and tourist attractions in Boston are world-renowned. 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.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Detroit. Popular museums around town include the Detroit Institute of Arts, the Detroit Historical Museum, and the Michigan Science Center.

Is Boston or Detroit Better for Theater?

Boston is a very popular place for its theatre productions. However, Detroit 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.

Detroit is not a theatre destination.

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

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

Boston has a huge number of terrific restaurants. 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.

There are many up and coming restaurants in the Detroit area. There's a local flavor to the food with a number of classic dishes that are popular like square pizza, Coney dogs, and corned beef egg rolls.

Is Boston or Detroit Better for Nightlife?

Evening events are great in both Boston and Detroit.

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

Detroit has a lively atmosphere and nightlife is popular here. It's long history in music still influences the nightlife scene. You'll find bars, clubs, and other activities around town. Greektown and Midtown are both popular neighborhoods during the evening.

Is Boston or Detroit Better for Music?

Detroit is an unbeatable place for live music. Also, Boston is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its live music scene.

Detroit is a world class music destination. Few cities have such an influential music industry. It's home to Motown and is well known for its soul music, jazz, blues, and rap.

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 Detroit Better for Beaches?

Boston is a decent place to visit for the beache. However, Detroit is not a beach destination.

You can check out the beach in Boston. There are a few urban beaches in the greater Boston area that you can explore on a nice day.

Detroit is not a beach destination.

Is Boston or Detroit Better for its Old Town?

Boston is an unbeatable place for its old town. However, Detroit does not have a historic old town.

With a famous historical old-town, Boston offers plenty to see. 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.

Detroit does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Boston or Detroit?

Both Boston and Detroit are nice 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 Detroit. There are several shopping streets like Woodward Avenue. There are also outlet malls, shopping centers, and Eastern Market.

Is Boston or Detroit Better for Christmas?

Boston is a very popular place for its Christmas holiday experiences. However, Detroit 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.

Detroit does not offer Christmas activities.

Is Boston or Detroit Better for Christmas Markets?

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

Boston has a large number of Christmas markets. There are a number of European style Christmas markets that pop up during the holiday season around town.

Detroit does not offer Christmas markets.

Is Boston or Detroit Better for Families?

Boston is an unbeatable place for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Detroit 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 Detroit. Head to the Detroit Zoo or check out one of the amusement parks in the area. Kids will enjoy a visit to Legoland and there's also the Sea Life Michigan Aquarium. You could also spend some time visiting the unique museums in the area.

Is Boston or Detroit Better for Couples?

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

Boston makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. 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.

Detroit is not always the best place to visit for a couple. It's not a city that usually brings to mind romance, but if you find yourself here for a couple of days, there's a RiverWalk area and some interesting local neighborhoods.

Is Boston or Detroit Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Boston is a nice place to visit for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Detroit 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.

Detroit is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. There are a couple of hostels in the area, but this is still an often overlooked city.

Is Boston or Detroit Better for Students?

Boston is an unbeatable place for its student-friendly activities. However, Detroit 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.

Detroit is not popular with students.

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

Boston is an unbeatable place for times when you don't have a car. However, Detroit is lacking in good options for its public transit.

Visitors in Boston can get around quickly with the extensive public transit system. There's the T, which is the subway, as well as a trolley, bus, and water transportation system.

Public transit is generally limited in Detroit. There's a streetcar and bus system, but the car is still king in Motor City.

Is Boston or Detroit a more walkable city?

Boston is an unbeatable place for its high level of walkability. Also, Detroit is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its ease of walking around.

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

Detroit is a somewhat walkable city. There are parts of downtown Detroit that are walkable, but most people need a car to get around.

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

Should I spend more time in Detroit or Boston?

How long in Boston or Detroit?

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

Families should spend more time in Boston than Detroit. 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 Detroit. 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 Detroit 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 Detroit?

Because Boston is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. One reason most visitors come is for the museums. This city offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

Many travelers enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the destination of Detroit. One day is often enough time to do most activities.

A weekend in Boston or Detroit?

Because Boston is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Visiting the old town is also a must. One reason most visitors come is for the museums. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

Detroit is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. Don't miss the live music, as that's what most people do. 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 Detroit?

Boston is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Boston has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Detroit. Don't miss the live music, as that's what most people do. 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 Detroit?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Boston. Many people enjoy the theater and nightlife when visiting Boston. One reason most visitors come is for the museums. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and live music when visiting the hardworking destination of Detroit. 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 Detroit, we can see that Boston is more expensive. And not only is Detroit much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Detroit would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Detroit 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 Detroit.

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

Which is Bigger, Boston or Detroit?

Detroit has a larger population, and is about 61% larger than the population of Boston. When comparing the sizes of Boston and Detroit, 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 Detroit?

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 Detroit in the Summer?

Both Detroit 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 Detroit for the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In the summer, Boston is around the same temperature as Detroit. Typically, the summer temperatures in Boston in July average around 73°F (23°C), and Detroit averages at about 74°F (24°C).

In Detroit, 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 Detroit. Boston gets 304 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Detroit receives 319 hours of full sun.

Boston usually gets less rain in July than Detroit. Boston gets 2.9 inches (74 mm) of rain, while Detroit receives 3.4 inches (85 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Boston or Detroit in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Boston and Detroit. 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 Detroit because of the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the music scene.

In October, Boston is generally around the same temperature as Detroit. Daily temperatures in Boston average around 54°F (12°C), and Detroit fluctuates around 54°F (12°C).

Boston usually receives more sunshine than Detroit during autumn. Boston gets 194 hours of sunny skies, while Detroit receives 172 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Boston usually receives more rain than Detroit. Boston gets 3.3 inches (84 mm) of rain, while Detroit receives 2.3 inches (58 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Boston or Detroit in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Boston as well as Detroit. 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 Detroit this time of year.

It's quite cold in Detroit in the winter. The weather in Boston can be very cold. Boston is much warmer than Detroit in the winter. The daily temperature in Boston averages around 29°F (-2°C) in January, and Detroit fluctuates around 25°F (-4°C).

In the winter, Boston often gets more sunshine than Detroit. Boston gets 153 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Detroit receives 120 hours of full sun.

Boston usually gets more rain in January than Detroit. Boston gets 3.4 inches (87 mm) of rain, while Detroit receives 2 inches (50 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Boston or Detroit in the Spring?

Both Detroit 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. Also, many travelers come to Detroit for the activities around the city.

In the spring, Boston is around the same temperature as Detroit. Typically, the spring temperatures in Boston in April average around 48°F (9°C), and Detroit averages at about 49°F (9°C).

It's quite sunny in Detroit. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Boston. Boston usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Detroit during spring. Boston gets 225 hours of sunny skies, while Detroit receives 223 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Boston usually receives more rain than Detroit. Boston gets 3.5 inches (89 mm) of rain, while Detroit receives 3.2 inches (80 mm) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Detroit and Boston