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

Should you visit Boston or Lancaster?

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 Lancaster. 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. As it's a big city, visitors will find plenty to do, too. It offers plenty of beauty for visitors. As this is a very quaint destination, you'll find it has a special atmosphere. It's also popular because of the theater, nightlife, and live music.

Lancaster

Lancaster is a scenic, traditional, and picturesque town. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for food, shopping, and museums.

Boston and Lancaster: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Boston or Lancaster?

You'll generally find more things to do in Boston than Lancaster. Boston is bigger than Lancaster, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Boston is better known for its museums, theatre productions, food, nightlife, music, beaches, historical sights, christmas markets, big city activities, and quaint atmosphere, while Lancaster is more popular for its shopping and impressive beauty. Boston is more touristy than Lancaster and is popular for its enthusiastic sports fans, influential history, beautiful parks, and world-class universities. Also, Boston is famous for The Freedom Trail. Lancaster is well known for its history and long running Amish community.

How is Boston different from Lancaster?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Boston is an amazing city to visit for its historical sights. Also, Lancaster is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its sights and museums.

With plenty of landmarks, attractions, and museums, Boston has many famous sights for visitors. 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 Lancaster. Filled with history and local culture, there are many educational opportunities in the area where you can learn about Amish traditions. The Amish Village has tours and unique experiences. The town also has James Buchanan's Wheatland, the Railroad Museum of Pennsylvania, the National Toy Train Museum, the Ephrata Cloister, and the National Watch & Clock Museum, among many others.

Is Boston or Lancaster Better for Theater?

Boston is a great city for its shows and theatre. However, Lancaster 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.

Lancaster is not a theatre destination.

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

Boston is a great city for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Lancaster is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Boston has a number of nationally recognized food spots and 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.

Lancaster offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. You can sample authentic Pennsylvania Dutch dishes at one of the Amish restaurants in the area. Many places serve food family-style and dishes include chicken pot pie, ham balls, and pork and sauerkraut. Whoopie pies also originated in the area.

Is Boston or Lancaster Better for Nightlife?

Boston is a great city for its evening party scene. However, Lancaster is not known for nightlife.

The nightlife in Boston has something for everybody. 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.

Most people don't head to Lancaster specifically for the nightlife scene, but you can find a few options. It's a small town, but you'll still find local pubs and cozy bars where you can enjoy a drink in a laid back atmosphere.

Is Boston or Lancaster Better for Music?

Boston is a nice place to visit for its music scene. However, Lancaster is not a live music destination.

The music scene helps keep Boston active and fun. Popular music venues include Lizard Lounge, Blue Hills Bank Pavilion, and The Middle East.

Lancaster is not a live music destination.

Is Boston or Lancaster Better for Beaches?

Boston is adequate for the beach. However, Lancaster is not a beach destination.

The beach in Boston is worth checking out. There are a few urban beaches in the greater Boston area that you can explore on a nice day.

Lancaster is not a beach destination.

Is Boston or Lancaster Better for its Old Town?

Boston is an amazing city to visit for its historic old town charm. However, Lancaster 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.

Lancaster does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Boston or Lancaster?

Lancaster is notable for shopping. Also, Boston is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its shopping opportunities.

Lancaster is an extremely popular place for shoppers. Many visitors pick up hand-crafted Amish items while they're in town. Furniture and Amish quilts are particularly popular. Farmers markets and antique shopping are both unique in the area and there are also art galleries and several outlet stores that you can visit.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Boston. 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.

Is Boston or Lancaster Better for Christmas?

Boston is a great city for its Christmas holiday experiences. However, Lancaster does not offer Christmas activities.

Boston is a very popular destination during Christmas. Christmas comes to life in the city with its Christmas Trees, holiday shows, and festivals.

Lancaster does not offer Christmas activities.

Is Boston or Lancaster Better for Christmas Markets?

Boston is a great city for visiting Christmas markets. However, Lancaster 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.

Lancaster does not offer Christmas markets.

Is Boston or Lancaster Better for Families?

Boston is an amazing city to visit for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Lancaster is not as popular, but is still a nice town 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.

Lancaster is a very family-friendly place to visit. In you area you'll find farms and petting zoos, amusement parks, and train rides. They can learn about a unique lifestyle at the Amish Experience or soak up the local beauty and farmland in the surrounding countryside.

Is Boston or Lancaster Better for Couples?

Lancaster is notable for romance. Also, Boston is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its romantic activities.

Lancaster is a very popular place to visit for couples. This region is known for it's local beauty and serene farmland, making it a relaxing and peaceful destination for couples. There are walking trails, outdoor activities, buggy rides, and a variety of dining experiences. You can also stay at a bed and breakfast or local inn.

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.

Is Boston or Lancaster Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Boston is a nice place to visit for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Lancaster is not known 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.

Lancaster is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. Although it's often overlooked by backpackers, the region offers a unique cultural experience.

Is Boston or Lancaster Better for Students?

Boston is an amazing city to visit for its student-friendly activities. However, Lancaster 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.

Lancaster is not popular with students.

Is Boston or Lancaster 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, Lancaster is not known 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 Lancaster. The city has buses and several transportation options, but once you're outside of the urban core, your options are limited.

Is Boston or Lancaster a more walkable city?

Boston is an amazing city to visit for its ease of walking around. However, Lancaster is not known for its walkability.

Boston is a very easy city to get around on foot. The many parks and compact neighborhoods are best explored on foot.

Lancaster is generally not very walkable. While the city itself has walkable areas, most visitors want to get out and explore the countryside, which requires a car.

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

Should I spend more time in Lancaster or Boston?

How long in Boston or Lancaster?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Boston and Lancaster. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Boston than in Lancaster. Usually, 3-5 days is a good amount of time for Boston, and 2-3 days is enough time in Lancaster.

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

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 shopping and museums when visiting the destination of Lancaster. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Boston or Lancaster?

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.

Lancaster 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 Lancaster?

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 Lancaster. 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 Lancaster?

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 traditional destination of Lancaster. This town 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 Lancaster, we can see that Boston is more expensive. And not only is Lancaster much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Lancaster would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Lancaster 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 Lancaster.

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

Which is Bigger, Boston or Lancaster?

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

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 Lancaster in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Boston as well as Lancaster. Many visitors come to Boston in the summer for the beaches, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Lancaster for the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In July, Boston is generally around the same temperature as Lancaster. Daily temperatures in Boston average around 73°F (23°C), and Lancaster fluctuates around 77°F (25°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Lancaster. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Boston this time of the year. In the summer, Boston often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Lancaster. Boston gets 304 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Lancaster receives 310 hours of full sun.

Boston usually gets less rain in July than Lancaster. Boston gets 2.9 inches (74 mm) of rain, while Lancaster receives 3.6 inches (91 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Boston or Lancaster in the Autumn?

Both Lancaster and Boston are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. 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. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Lancaster because of the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area.

Boston is around the same temperature as Lancaster in the autumn. The daily temperature in Boston averages around 54°F (12°C) in October, and Lancaster fluctuates around 56°F (13°C).

Boston usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Lancaster during autumn. Boston gets 194 hours of sunny skies, while Lancaster receives 194 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Boston usually receives more rain than Lancaster. Boston gets 3.3 inches (84 mm) of rain, while Lancaster receives 2.9 inches (75 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Boston or Lancaster in the Winter?

Both Lancaster and Boston during the winter are popular places to visit. The winter months attract visitors to Boston because of the museums, the Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine. Furthermore, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Lancaster this time of year.

It's quite cold in Lancaster in the winter. The weather in Boston can be very cold. In the winter, Boston is much colder than Lancaster. Typically, the winter temperatures in Boston in January average around 29°F (-2°C), and Lancaster averages at about 30°F (-1°C).

In the winter, Boston often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Lancaster. Boston gets 153 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Lancaster receives 153 hours of full sun.

Boston usually gets more rain in January than Lancaster. Boston gets 3.4 inches (87 mm) of rain, while Lancaster receives 2.8 inches (72 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Boston or Lancaster in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Boston and Lancaster. The beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty are the main draw to Boston this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Lancaster for the natural beauty.

In April, Boston is generally cooler than Lancaster. Daily temperatures in Boston average around 48°F (9°C), and Lancaster fluctuates around 53°F (12°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Lancaster this time of the year. In Boston, it's very sunny this time of the year. Boston usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Lancaster during spring. Boston gets 225 hours of sunny skies, while Lancaster receives 237 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Boston usually receives more rain than Lancaster. Boston gets 3.5 inches (89 mm) of rain, while Lancaster receives 3.2 inches (82 mm) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Lancaster and Boston