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

Should you visit Boston or Providence?

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 Providence. 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 traditional, classic, and proud 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.

Providence

Providence is a friendly, fascinating, and active city. It's also known for nightlife, food, and shopping.

Boston and Providence: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Boston or Providence?

You'll generally find more things to do in Boston than Providence. Boston is bigger than Providence, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Boston is more touristy than Providence and is popular for its enthusiastic sports fans, influential history, beautiful parks, and world-class universities. Also, Boston is famous for The Freedom Trail. Providence is well known for its outdoor parks, historic atmosphere, and college town vibe.

How is Boston different from Providence?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Boston is an unbeatable place for its historical sights. Also, Providence is not as popular, but is still a nice city 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.

Providence is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. There are several historical museums around town as well as art museums, zoos, a planetarium and natural history museum, and even a children's museum.

Is Boston or Providence Better for Theater?

Boston is a great city for its shows and theatre. However, Providence is not a theatre destination.

Boston offers many theater and performance venues for visitors. 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.

Providence is not a theatre destination.

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

Dining out at restaurants in both Boston and Providence can be an enjoyable experience.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Boston makes for a great culinary experience. 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.

Providence has a huge number of terrific restaurants. The food scene around town has grown and diversified in recent years. You'll find a mix of international and local options and for such a small city, it really has a lot to offer.

Is Boston or Providence Better for Nightlife?

Boston is a great city for its evening party scene. Also, Providence is not as popular, but is still a nice city 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.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Providence. Comedy clubs, bars, and clubs keep the energy high during the evening hours. It's not hard to find something to do, particularly on weekend nights.

Is Boston or Providence Better for Music?

Boston is a good destination for its music scene. However, Providence is not a live music destination.

You don't have to look far to find a unique music venue in Boston. Popular music venues include Lizard Lounge, Blue Hills Bank Pavilion, and The Middle East.

Providence is not a live music destination.

Is Boston or Providence Better for Beaches?

Boston is adequate for the beach. However, Providence 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.

Providence is not a beach destination.

Is Boston or Providence Better for its Old Town?

Boston is an unbeatable place for its historic old town charm. However, Providence 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.

Providence does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Boston or Providence?

Both Boston and Providence are notable 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 Providence. Malls, shopping centers, and boutiques all offer a range of shopping experiences around town.

Is Boston or Providence Better for Christmas?

Boston is a great city for its Christmas holiday experiences. However, Providence 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.

Providence does not offer Christmas activities.

Is Boston or Providence Better for Christmas Markets?

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

Providence does not offer Christmas markets.

Is Boston or Providence Better for Families?

Boston is an unbeatable place for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Providence is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its family-friendly activities.

With a huge array of activities for kids, Boston is very family-friendly. 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.

Providence is a family-friendly place to visit. There are opportunities for kids to interact with animals at the Roger Williams Park Zoo, as well as plenty of places for kids to run around like Rocky Point Park or Goddard Memorial State Park. There's also the Providence Children's Museum, go carting, and entertainment centers.

Is Boston or Providence Better for Couples?

Boston and Providence both notable 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.

Providence makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. You can see a show at the Providence Performing Arts Center or visit some of the city's historic buildings and museums. There are also parks and coastal walks as well as many great restaurants.

Is Boston or Providence Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Boston is a good destination for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Providence is not known for backpackers.

Plenty of backpackers visit Boston. Like most larger American cities, the city has a handful of hostels to choose from.

Providence is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. There are a couple of hostels around town for those who want an affordable place to stay.

Is Boston or Providence Better for Students?

Boston is an unbeatable place for its student-friendly activities. Also, Providence is not as popular, but is still a nice city for students.

Boston is a very popular place to visit 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.

Providence is a very popular city for students and younger travelers. There's a college town vibe to this small city because it's home to Brown University, which is a member of the Ivy League.

Is Boston or Providence 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. Also, Providence is not as popular, but is still a nice city 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.

Providence has a few public transit options. There are RIPTA buses that travel around town.

Is Boston or Providence a more walkable city?

Boston is an unbeatable place for its ease of walking around. Also, Providence is not as popular, but is still a nice city 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.

Providence is very walkable. It's a walkable city and it's relatively easy to explore on foot.

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

Should I spend more time in Providence or Boston?

How long in Boston or Providence?

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

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

When visiting Boston, people usually allow for lots of time. Anyone can find something fun to do here. One of the main draws to the area is the museums. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

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

A weekend in Boston or Providence?

When visiting Boston, people usually allow for lots of time. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. It offers something for everyone. One of the main draws to the area is the museums. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything.

Providence 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 Providence?

Boston, a popular city, is full of activities for travelers. This is a popular place to visit for five days. Visiting the old town is also a must. In five days, you should have a good grasp of this city. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Providence. 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 Providence?

Boston is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. One of the main draws to the area is the museums. 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.

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the active destination of Providence. 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 2-Week Tours from Anchorage, The Best 2-Week Tours from San Francisco, The Best 2-Week Tours from Los Angeles, and The Best Family-Friendly Tours to United States of America.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Boston and Providence, we can see that Boston is more expensive. And not only is Providence much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Providence would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Providence 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 Providence.

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

Which is Bigger, Boston or Providence?

Boston has a larger population, and is about 3 times larger than the population of Providence. When comparing the sizes of Boston and Providence, 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 Providence?

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 Providence in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Boston as well as Providence. The summer months attract visitors to Boston because of the beaches, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Providence this time of year.

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

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Providence. 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 Providence. Boston gets 304 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Providence receives 293 hours of full sun.

Boston usually gets around the same amount of rain in July as Providence. Boston gets 2.9 inches (74 mm) of rain, while Providence receives 2.8 inches (72 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Boston or Providence in the Autumn?

Both Providence and Boston are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Boston this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Providence for the shopping scene.

Boston is around the same temperature as Providence in the autumn. The daily temperature in Boston averages around 54°F (12°C) in October, and Providence fluctuates around 53°F (12°C).

It's quite sunny in Providence. Boston usually receives less sunshine than Providence during autumn. Boston gets 194 hours of sunny skies, while Providence receives 211 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Boston usually receives around the same amount of rain as Providence. Boston gets 3.3 inches (84 mm) of rain, while Providence receives 3.3 inches (83 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Boston or Providence in the Winter?

Both Providence and Boston during the winter are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Boston for the museums, the Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine. Furthermore, many visitors come to Providence in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Providence can get quite cold in the winter. Be prepared for some very cold days in Boston. In the winter, Boston is a little warmer than Providence. Typically, the winter temperatures in Boston in January average around 29°F (-2°C), and Providence averages at about 28°F (-2°C).

In the winter, Boston often gets less sunshine than Providence. Boston gets 153 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Providence receives 170 hours of full sun.

Boston usually gets around the same amount of rain in January as Providence. Boston gets 3.4 inches (87 mm) of rain, while Providence receives 3.5 inches (89 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Boston or Providence in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Boston and Providence. Many visitors come to Boston in the spring for the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty.

In April, Boston is generally around the same temperature as Providence. Daily temperatures in Boston average around 48°F (9°C), and Providence fluctuates around 48°F (9°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Providence 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 Providence during spring. Boston gets 225 hours of sunny skies, while Providence receives 225 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Boston usually receives around the same amount of rain as Providence. Boston gets 3.5 inches (89 mm) of rain, while Providence receives 3.7 inches (94 mm) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Providence and Boston