A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Boston vs. The Hamptons for Families, Food, Nightlife, and Couples

Should you visit Boston or The Hamptons?

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 The Hamptons. 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 historic, traditional, and classic 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. It's also known for nightlife, live music, and food.

The Hamptons

The Hamptons is a wealthy, opulent, and lavish beach destination. It's a gorgeous place to visit. It's also known for food, beaches, and hiking.

Boston and The Hamptons: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Boston or The Hamptons?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Boston. Although Boston and The Hamptons are both popular with visitors, Boston has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Boston is more popular for its museums, theatre productions, food, nightlife, music, historical sights, christmas markets, big city activities, and quaint atmosphere, while The Hamptons is known for its resorts, beaches, hiking, and shopping. Boston is more touristy than The Hamptons and is known for its enthusiastic sports fans, influential history, beautiful parks, and world-class universities. It is also home to The Freedom Trail. The Hamptons is popular for its long sandy beaches, charming seaside communities, opulent villas, and vacationing celebrities.

How is Boston different from The Hamptons?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Boston is a world-class destination for its museums and landmarks. However, The Hamptons does not have museums and landmarks.

Visitors will find world class museums and historical sights in Boston that are not to be missed. 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.

The Hamptons does not have museums and landmarks.

Is Boston or The Hamptons Better for Theater?

Boston is a great destination for theatre. However, The Hamptons is not a theatre destination.

Boston attracts a wide-range of world-class performances. 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.

The Hamptons is not a theatre destination.

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

Boston is a great destination for its restaurant scene. Also, The Hamptons is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

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.

The Hamptons has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. There are a number of fine dining restaurants in the area and seafood is a favorite. Some restaurants are known to be frequented by vacationing celebrities, so if you're hoping to spot someone famous, do some research and you may have some luck.

Is Boston or The Hamptons Better for Nightlife?

Boston is a great destination for nightlife. Also, The Hamptons is still popular, but not quite as popular for nightlife and partying.

The people in Boston know how to have a good time. 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.

If you're looking for night time activities The Hamptons has a few options to choose from. There are plenty of nightclubs and bars throughout the area. Head to East Hampton for some of the best options.

Is Boston or The Hamptons Better for Music?

Boston is a city with good options for live music. However, The Hamptons is not a live music destination.

You'll find some good live music in Boston. Popular music venues include Lizard Lounge, Blue Hills Bank Pavilion, and The Middle East.

The Hamptons is not a live music destination.

Is Boston or The Hamptons Better for Resorts?

The Hamptons is notable for its resorts. However, Boston is not a resort destination.

There are plenty of resorts in The Hamptons to choose from. Known as a hangout for the rich and famous, there is no shortage of luxury hotels and resorts in the area.

Boston is not a resort destination.

Is Boston or The Hamptons Better for Beaches?

The Hamptons is a good destination for its beaches. However, Boston is a mediocre city for the beache.

The Hamptons offers a nice beach destination. The beaches in the area feature long stretches of soft sand and plenty of space to spread out. Many beaches do come with a hefty price tag though as they require you to pay for parking or a permit.

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.

Is Boston or The Hamptons Better for its Old Town?

Boston is a world-class destination for its historic old town. However, The Hamptons 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.

The Hamptons does not have a historic old town.

Is Boston or The Hamptons Better for Hiking?

The Hamptons is a good destination for the nearby hiking options. However, Boston is not a hiking destination.

The Hamptons offers some nice hiking trails. There are a number of picturesque walks through the dunes and wetlands around the area. There is plenty of peaceful nature to explore if you're looking for a break from city life.

Boston is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Boston or The Hamptons?

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

The Hamptons is a famous shopping destination with plenty of stores. Known as a playground for the rich and famous, you can be assured there are plenty of shopping opportunities where you can flash your cash around town.

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 The Hamptons Better for Christmas?

Boston is a great destination for its Christmas activities. However, The Hamptons does not offer Christmas activities.

Visitors come from all around to experience the Christmas activities in Boston. Christmas comes to life in the city with its Christmas Trees, holiday shows, and festivals.

The Hamptons does not offer Christmas activities.

Is Boston or The Hamptons Better for Christmas Markets?

Boston is a great destination for its Christmas markets. However, The Hamptons 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.

The Hamptons does not offer Christmas markets.

Is Boston or The Hamptons Better for Families?

Boston is a world-class destination for its family-friendly activities. Also, The Hamptons is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

Boston is an extremely popular city to visit for families. 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.

The Hamptons offers lots of family activities. The area has a family-friendly setting with many outdoor activities and a children's museum. There are music events, children's parks, small zoos, and, of course, the beach. Also make sure you pick up some ice cream and enjoy that quintessential beach experience.

Is Boston or The Hamptons Better for Couples?

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

The Hamptons is a very popular place to visit for couples. Couples who enjoy beaches, dining out, and escaping the chaos of city life will enjoy a retreat here. The area has many beautiful parks and outdoor spaces, but there are also amazing restaurants that make for a great date night.

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 The Hamptons Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Boston is a city with good options for backpackers. However, The Hamptons is a beach destination with minimal options for backpackers and budget travelers.

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

The Hamptons is not the best destination for backpackers and budget travelers due to its high prices. It's more popular with the rich and famous than it is with the budget crowd, so you may struggle to find an affordable place to stay, much less a hostel.

Is Boston or The Hamptons Better for Students?

Boston is a world-class destination for students. However, The Hamptons is not popular with students.

Boston is a very popular city 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.

The Hamptons is not popular with students.

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

Boston is a world-class destination for its public transit. However, The Hamptons is a beach destination with minimal options for times when you don't have a car.

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.

Public transit is quite limited in The Hamptons. While there are trains between towns, there aren't many options when it comes to public transit.

Is Boston or The Hamptons a more walkable city?

Boston is a world-class destination for its walkability. Also, The Hamptons is still popular, but not quite as popular for its high level of walkability.

Getting around Boston on foot is easy. The many parks and compact neighborhoods are best explored on foot.

The Hamptons is a somewhat walkable place. While some of the towns offer a nice place for a stroll, most of the Hamptons is not very walkable and it's best to have a car.

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

Should I spend more time in The Hamptons or Boston?

How long in Boston or The Hamptons?

Both Boston and The Hamptons have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in The Hamptons than in Boston. Usually, 3-5 days is a good amount of time for Boston, and 3-7 days is enough time in The Hamptons.

Families should spend more time in Boston than The Hamptons. 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 The Hamptons. 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 The Hamptons 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 The Hamptons?

Each neighborhood in Boston has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

Many travelers enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the destination of The Hamptons. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Boston or The Hamptons?

Boston is a fun place to experience. Visiting the old town is also a must. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. Lots of people come for the museums. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring.

The Hamptons is a great place to explore. Don't miss the shopping, as that's what most people do. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Five days in Boston or The Hamptons?

Each neighborhood in Boston has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Plenty of people spend five days in the area when traveling. Lots of people come for the museums. So, five days is just the right amount of time to spend here.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in The Hamptons. Don't miss the shopping, as that's what most people do. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. With all of its activities, you can easily fill five days here. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A week in Boston or The Hamptons?

Boston is a popular place to visit. 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. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Many travelers enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the lavish destination of The Hamptons. This beach destination offers a variety of activities to choose from. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. If you have one week, this is a great place to go. This would be the perfect place to spend one week, as it has just the right amount of activities.

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 comparing the travel costs between Boston and The Hamptons, we can see that Boston is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Since both cities are in North America, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

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

Which is Bigger, Boston or The Hamptons?

Boston has a larger population, and is about 140 times larger than the population of The Hamptons. When comparing the sizes of Boston and The Hamptons, 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 The Hamptons?

Both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. And since both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Boston or The Hamptons in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Boston and The Hamptons. Most visitors come to Boston for the beaches, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to The Hamptons because of the beaches, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences.

Boston is around the same temperature as The Hamptons in the summer. The daily temperature in Boston averages around 73°F (23°C) in July, and The Hamptons fluctuates around 76°F (25°C).

The Hamptons receives a lot of rain in the summer. In July, Boston usually receives less rain than The Hamptons. Boston gets 2.9 inches (74 mm) of rain, while The Hamptons receives 4.1 inches (104 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Boston or The Hamptons in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Boston as well as The Hamptons. The autumn months attract visitors to Boston because of the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to The Hamptons this time of year.

In the autumn, Boston is cooler than The Hamptons. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Boston in October average around 54°F (12°C), and The Hamptons averages at about 58°F (14°C).

Boston usually gets more rain in October than The Hamptons. Boston gets 3.3 inches (84 mm) of rain, while The Hamptons receives 3 inches (77 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Boston or The Hamptons in the Winter?

Both The Hamptons and Boston are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The museums, the Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine are the main draw to Boston this time of year. Also, many travelers come to The Hamptons for the shopping scene and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in The Hamptons. It's quite cold in Boston in the winter. In January, Boston is generally much colder than The Hamptons. Daily temperatures in Boston average around 29°F (-2°C), and The Hamptons fluctuates around 31°F (-0°C).

In January, Boston usually receives around the same amount of rain as The Hamptons. Boston gets 3.4 inches (87 mm) of rain, while The Hamptons receives 3.2 inches (81 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Boston or The Hamptons in the Spring?

Both The Hamptons and Boston during the spring are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Boston for the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty. Furthermore, many visitors come to The Hamptons in the spring for the beaches and the natural beauty.

Boston is cooler than The Hamptons in the spring. The daily temperature in Boston averages around 48°F (9°C) in April, and The Hamptons fluctuates around 51°F (11°C).

Boston usually gets less rain in April than The Hamptons. Boston gets 3.5 inches (89 mm) of rain, while The Hamptons receives 3.8 inches (96 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for The Hamptons and Boston