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

Should you visit Boston or Minneapolis?

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 Minneapolis. 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.

Minneapolis

Minneapolis is a dynamic, innovative, and diverse city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. It's also known for nightlife, food, and shopping.

Boston and Minneapolis: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Boston or Minneapolis?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Boston than Minneapolis. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Boston is very popular for its museums, theatre productions, food, music, beaches, historical sights, christmas markets, big city activities, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere, while Minneapolis attracts visitors for its shopping. Boston is more touristy than Minneapolis 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. Minneapolis is famous for its professional sports teams, countless outdoor activities, and friendly people.

How is Boston different from Minneapolis?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Boston is a world-class destination for its museums and history. Also, Minneapolis 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.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into Minneapolis. There's a wide variety of museums that include art, history, science, and local culture. Some of the favorite museums in the city are the Minneapolis Institute of Art, the Walker Art Center, the American Swedish Institute, and the Weisman Art Museum.

Is Boston or Minneapolis Better for Theater?

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

Minneapolis is not a theatre destination.

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

Boston is a very popular place for its restaurants. Also, Minneapolis 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 Minneapolis area. Dishes in the Midwest are known for being hearty comfort foods, and the food in Minneapolis is no exception. You'll find cheese-stuffed burgers that are known as Juicy Lucys, Tator Tot casseroles, and deep-fried cheese curds. For international food, there's a variety of Scandinavian options around town.

Is Boston or Minneapolis Better for Nightlife?

Evening events are great in both Boston and Minneapolis.

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.

Minneapolis has a lively atmosphere and nightlife is popular here. There are diverse neighborhoods that each have their own personality. You'll find rooftop lounges in Uptown, international venues in Whittier, and trendy bars in the North Loop. But at the heart of the city's nightlife scene is Downtown Minneapolis.

Is Boston or Minneapolis Better for Music?

Boston is a nice place to visit for its live music scene. However, Minneapolis 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.

Minneapolis is not a live music destination.

Is Boston or Minneapolis Better for Beaches?

Boston is a decent place to visit for the beache. However, Minneapolis 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.

Minneapolis is not a beach destination.

Is Boston or Minneapolis Better for its Old Town?

Boston is a world-class destination for its old town. However, Minneapolis does not have a historic old town.

The historic old town of Boston is revered around the world. 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.

Minneapolis does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Boston or Minneapolis?

Minneapolis is an unbeatable place for shopping. Also, Boston is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its shopping opportunities.

Minneapolis is a famous shopping destination with plenty of stores. Known for the megamall, Mall of America, this is a shopper's paradise. Mall of America is the largest shopping mall in the country and it even has an aquarium and a theme park within it. In addition to this iconic shopping mall, Minneapolis also has many shopping districts including the Minnehaha Mile.

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 Minneapolis Better for Christmas?

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

Minneapolis does not offer Christmas activities.

Is Boston or Minneapolis Better for Christmas Markets?

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

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

Minneapolis does not offer Christmas markets.

Is Boston or Minneapolis Better for Families?

Boston is a world-class destination for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Minneapolis 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.

Minneapolis is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. Mall of America is at the top of the list for most families, but there's also plenty of kid-friendly museums around town as well as nature centers, parks, and playgrounds. There's the Como Park Zoo and Conservatory, the Minnesota Zoo, and Afton Apple Orchard. For museums, kids will love the Minnesota Children's Museum or the Science Museum of Minnesota.

Is Boston or Minneapolis Better for Couples?

Boston and Minneapolis both nice destinations for a couple.

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.

Minneapolis makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. There are beautiful parks and outdoor spaces to explore as well as museums and fine dining. Couples will appreciate stopping by the Stone Arch Bridge or wandering through the Lyndale Park Rose Garden.

Is Boston or Minneapolis Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

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

Minneapolis is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. While it's not a popular destination for backpackers, there is at least one hostel in town.

Is Boston or Minneapolis Better for Students?

Boston is a world-class destination for its student-friendly activities. Also, Minneapolis is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for 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.

Students come from all over to stay in Minneapolis. There are a number of colleges and universities in the area including the University of Minnesota. The city is known for its academic and intellectual focus, and students will enjoy being challenged educationally while enjoying a dynamic city.

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

Boston is a world-class destination for times when you don't have a car. Also, Minneapolis is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its public transit.

With a huge network, the transit system in Boston can get you around easily. There's the T, which is the subway, as well as a trolley, bus, and water transportation system.

You'll find some public transit in Minneapolis, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There are buses, light rail, and commuter trains that stop at many of the major entertainment centers around town.

Is Boston or Minneapolis a more walkable city?

Boston is a world-class destination for its high level of walkability. Also, Minneapolis 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.

Minneapolis is a somewhat walkable city. There are neighborhoods that are dense enough to be walkable, but the city is still very car-focused.

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

Should I spend more time in Minneapolis or Boston?

How long in Boston or Minneapolis?

It's fun to spend time in either Boston or Minneapolis. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Boston due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 3-5 days is a good amount of time for Boston, and 2-4 days is enough time in Minneapolis.

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

Boston is a traditional city where you can fill many days. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Most people visit for the museums. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

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

A weekend in Boston or Minneapolis?

Boston is a historic big city where you can fill many days. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. This city offers something for everyone. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

Minneapolis is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. Don't miss the shopping, 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 Minneapolis?

Boston is a traditional city where you can fill many days. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. Many people spend five days here.If you enjoy all that's offered here, then five days is just the right amount of time to spend here. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Minneapolis. Don't miss the shopping, 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 Minneapolis?

Many people enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting Boston. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. Most people visit for the museums. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Boston or Minneapolis?

Boston has a larger population, and is about 60% larger than the population of Minneapolis. When comparing the sizes of Boston and Minneapolis, 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 Minneapolis?

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 Minneapolis in the Summer?

Both Minneapolis 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 Minneapolis for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In the summer, Boston is around the same temperature as Minneapolis. Typically, the summer temperatures in Boston in July average around 73°F (23°C), and Minneapolis averages at about 76°F (25°C).

In Minneapolis, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Boston. In the summer, Boston often gets less sunshine than Minneapolis. Boston gets 304 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Minneapolis receives 357 hours of full sun.

Boston usually gets less rain in July than Minneapolis. Boston gets 2.9 inches (74 mm) of rain, while Minneapolis receives 3.4 inches (86 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Boston or Minneapolis in the Autumn?

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

In October, Boston is generally a little warmer than Minneapolis. Daily temperatures in Boston average around 54°F (12°C), and Minneapolis fluctuates around 52°F (11°C).

Boston usually receives more sunshine than Minneapolis during autumn. Boston gets 194 hours of sunny skies, while Minneapolis receives 178 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Boston usually receives more rain than Minneapolis. Boston gets 3.3 inches (84 mm) of rain, while Minneapolis receives 1.8 inches (45 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Boston or Minneapolis in the Winter?

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

It's quite cold in Minneapolis in the winter. The weather in Boston can be very cold. Boston is much warmer than Minneapolis in the winter. The daily temperature in Boston averages around 29°F (-2°C) in January, and Minneapolis fluctuates around 15°F (-10°C).

In the winter, Boston often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Minneapolis. Boston gets 153 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Minneapolis receives 157 hours of full sun.

Boston usually gets more rain in January than Minneapolis. Boston gets 3.4 inches (87 mm) of rain, while Minneapolis receives 0.9 inches (22 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Boston or Minneapolis in the Spring?

Both Minneapolis 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 Minneapolis for the activities around the city.

In the spring, Boston is around the same temperature as Minneapolis. Typically, the spring temperatures in Boston in April average around 48°F (9°C), and Minneapolis averages at about 49°F (10°C).

It's quite sunny in Minneapolis. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Boston. Boston usually receives less sunshine than Minneapolis during spring. Boston gets 225 hours of sunny skies, while Minneapolis receives 244 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Boston usually receives more rain than Minneapolis. Boston gets 3.5 inches (89 mm) of rain, while Minneapolis receives 2.1 inches (53 mm) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Minneapolis and Boston