A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Charleston vs. Cleveland for Food, Couples, Attractions, and Music

Should you visit Charleston or Cleveland?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Charleston or Cleveland, this travel comparison, which includes costs, can help. The overall cost of travel is usually a consideration when deciding where to go next, and the cost comparison down below can help you decide based on the average prices from other travelers along with your own travel budget.

Charleston

Charleston is a historic, classic, and picturesque coastal town. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It also has that perfectly quaint feel that is like no other place. Other reasons to visit include beaches, shopping, and museums.

Cleveland

Cleveland is a authentic, under-rated, and diverse city. Other popular activities here include nightlife, live music, and shopping.

Charleston and Cleveland: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Charleston or Cleveland?

Travelers will generally find more things to do in Charleston than Cleveland. While Cleveland is larger than Charleston, Charleston has more sights and attractions for tourists. Charleston is better known for its food, resorts, beaches, historical sights, shopping, christmas markets, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere, while Cleveland is more popular for its museums and music. Charleston is more touristy than Cleveland and is popular for its historic city market, low-country cuisine, Civil War history, and antebellum houses. Also, Charleston is famous for The Waterfront Park. Cleveland is well known for being the home to "rock 'n roll" as well as its friendly and hard working people.

How is Charleston different from Cleveland?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Cleveland and Charleston. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Charleston or Cleveland?

Cleveland is notable for its sights and museums. Also, Charleston is not as famous, but is still a good coastal town to visit for its museums and history.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Cleveland can be an interesting and educational experience. There are diverse museums around town such as the Cleveland Museum of Art, the Museum of Contemporary Art (moCa), and the Great Lakes Science Center. Music lovers will appreciate a visit to the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame.

Charleston is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. This city is famous for its many historic churches and plantations. The plantations are open to visit and will educate you on the city's past, which is heavily involved in slavery. You can also visit Fort Sumter National Monument by boat or take a tour of the USS Yorktown.

Is the Food Better in Charleston or Cleveland? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Charleston is an amazing coastal town to visit for its restaurants. However, Cleveland is lacking in good options for its restaurant scene.

Known for it's food and restaurant scene, Charleston is always at the top of any foodie's travel list. Food lovers will enjoy the city's low country classics. There are many local restaurants in town that serve southern specialties. You can also head a bit out of the town center if you want a waterfront restaurant. Local favorites include she-crab soup, shrimp and grits, cornbread, and fried green tomatoes.

You'll find the standard options when it comes to food in Cleveland. Casual dining with comfort food is the way most residents prefer to eat. There are local foods that have made a name for themselves such as gourmet hot dogs and deli sandwiches. The food is also influenced by the city's German, Irish, Polish, and Italian roots. Pierogis, bratwurst, and chicken paprikash are all common.

Is Charleston or Cleveland Better for Nightlife?

Evening events are notable in both Charleston and Cleveland.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Charleston. As a college town, there are plenty of bars and nightclubs around town. There's also a lively music scene. Head to the areas near the college for the most affordable and active nightlife. Popular clubs in town include Cure Night Club, Deco Nightclub, and Mynt.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Cleveland. Breweries have become a popular nighttime activity. There are also comedy clubs, music venues, and several theaters.

Is Charleston or Cleveland Better for Music?

Cleveland is notable for its music scene. Also, Charleston is not as famous, but is still a good coastal town to visit for live music.

If you love music, you'll find something to enjoy in Cleveland. Home to the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame, it has long been a destination for music enthusiasts. There are many independent music venues and it's the perfect place to catch a show.

You'll find some good live music in Charleston. You can hear a number of local bands or enjoy a more widely known group at larger venues in the area.

Is Charleston or Cleveland Better for Resorts?

Charleston is a nice place to visit for its luxury resorts. However, Cleveland is not a resort destination.

Charleston has a handful of resorts to choose from. The town has mostly hotels and bed and breakfasts in the downtown area, but nearby Kiawah Island has a number of nice resorts to choose from. Kiawah Island is particularly kid-friendly if you're looking for a family beach vacation. If you have a bit more money to spend and want something more residential, check out nearby Seabrook Island.

Cleveland is not a resort destination.

Is Charleston or Cleveland Better for Beaches?

Charleston is a very popular place for its beaches. However, Cleveland is not a beach destination.

You'll have a great beach vacation in Charleston. The area has a number of beautiful and fun nearby beaches including Folly Beach, Kiawah Island, and Seabrook Island. Folly Beach is an active and quirky beach area, while Kiawah is more family-friendly. Seabrook is more residential and more expensive.

Cleveland is not a beach destination.

Is Charleston or Cleveland Better for its Old Town?

Charleston is an amazing coastal town to visit for its historic old town. However, Cleveland does not have a historic old town.

Charleston offers visitors a world-class historical old town to explore. Charleston's downtown is one of the most charming and well preserved Old Town's in the United States. It's easy to see why it's become a world class destination.

Cleveland does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Charleston or Cleveland?

Charleston is an amazing coastal town to visit for shopping. Also, Cleveland is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its shopping opportunities.

People travel from around the world to go shopping in Charleston. The city is famous for its historic market in the center of town. Local goods, foods, and crafts are sold daily here. There are also many clothing and local shops throughout town, particularly along King Street, which has boutiques and high end outlets. Outside of town, stop by Tanger Outlet Mall if you want name brands at a discount price.

Cleveland offers some nice shopping areas. Large shopping malls offer plenty of selection. There's also West Side Market, which is the oldest public market in the city. Other interesting shopping areas include Little Italy and the Cleveland Flea.

Is Charleston or Cleveland Better for Christmas?

Charleston is a very popular place for its Christmas holiday experiences. However, Cleveland does not offer Christmas activities.

Since it has plenty to do, Charleston is a very popular place to visit during Christmas. During the Christmas season there are a number of festivals, light shows, and even a boat parade that everyone can enjoy.

Cleveland does not offer Christmas activities.

Is Charleston or Cleveland Better for Christmas Markets?

Charleston is a nice place to visit for visiting Christmas markets. However, Cleveland does not offer Christmas markets.

Charleston has Christmas markets worth visiting. Marion Square hosts Christmas Markets on weekends throughout the holiday season.

Cleveland does not offer Christmas markets.

Is Charleston or Cleveland Better for Families?

Charleston and Cleveland are both notable destinations for the whole family.

Charleston is a family-friendly place to visit. The city has a number of family-friendly activities like carriage rides and boat rides. There's also an aquarium, a waterfront park, and many kid-friendly museums. The nearby beaches also make it a wonderful place to visit with kids.

Cleveland is a family-friendly coastal town. Kid-friendly activities in the area include the Children’s Museum of Cleveland, the Great Lakes Science Center, and the Cleveland Museum of Natural History. There's also the Cleveland Metroparks Zoo as well as the smaller Akron Zoo.

Is Charleston or Cleveland Better for Couples?

Charleston is an amazing coastal town to visit for romance. However, Cleveland is lacking in good options for its romantic activities.

Charleston has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. This beautiful city is one of the most popular wedding destinations in America. It's a very romantic setting with beautiful hotels and bed and breakfasts that are perfect for couples on their honeymoon or looking for a romantic setting.

Most people don't think of Cleveland as a couple's destination. There are several romantic date night activities like boat rides on Lake Erie or dining at a nice restaurant.

Is Charleston or Cleveland Better for Students?

Charleston is a nice place to visit for its student-friendly activities. However, Cleveland is not popular with students.

Plenty of students visit Charleston. The city is a college town with a young vibe that is perfect for students. There's a nice university area where you'll find cheaper places to eat and a good nightlife scene.

Cleveland is not popular with students.

Is Charleston or Cleveland Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Both Charleston and Cleveland offer respectable public transit options.

Public transit is generally limited in Charleston. While there are some buses, you really must have a car to fully experience the entire area.

Public transit is mostly limited in Cleveland. There are bus, trolley, and train lines through the city, but a car is the most efficient way to get around.

Is Charleston or Cleveland a more walkable city?

Charleston is a very popular place for its walkability. However, Cleveland is lacking in good options for its high level of walkability.

Charleston is very walkable. The downtown area is very walkable, but once you leave the historic heart, it's best to have a car.

Cleveland is generally not very walkable. While some neighborhoods are more walkable than others (Downtown, Ohio City and Buckeye - Shaker), most visitors need a car to easily access everything they wish to do.

For even more information, also check out Is Charleston Worth Visiting? and Is Cleveland Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Cleveland or Charleston?

How long in Charleston or Cleveland?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Charleston and Cleveland. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Charleston than in Cleveland. Usually, 2-7 days is a good amount of time for Charleston, and 1-3 days is enough time in Cleveland.

Families should spend more time in Charleston than Cleveland. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Charleston, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Couples should spend more time in Charleston than Cleveland. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Charleston that are great for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Charleston than Cleveland 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 Charleston.

One day in Charleston or Cleveland?

You'll find nightlife and live music around the quaint coastal town of Charleston. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. 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.

With museums and nightlife around the diverse city of Cleveland, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Cleveland, one day is sufficent for most.

A weekend in Charleston or Cleveland?

You'll find live music and food around the charming destination of Charleston. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this coastal town has to offer. This coastal town offers a variety of activities to choose from.

With nightlife and live music around the destination of Cleveland, there's plenty to do. It offers something for everyone. Many people spend a weekend here. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this city.

Five days in Charleston or Cleveland?

You'll find food and shopping around the historic coastal town of Charleston. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this coastal town makes for a great vacation. It's also a great beach destination, too. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this coastal town has to offer.

Cleveland, a popular city, is full of activities for travelers. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

A week in Charleston or Cleveland?

Charleston is a popular choice for travelers. One week here is typical. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Charleston, one week is sufficent for most. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Cleveland is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. 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.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 2-Week Tours from New York City, The Best 2-Week Tours from Anchorage, The Best 2-Week Tours from San Francisco, and The Best 2-Week Tours from Los Angeles.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Charleston and Cleveland, we can see that Charleston is more expensive. And not only is Cleveland much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Cleveland would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Cleveland 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 Charleston would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Charleston than you might in Cleveland.

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

Which is Bigger, Charleston or Cleveland?

Cleveland has a larger population, and is about 5 times larger than the population of Charleston. When comparing the sizes of Charleston and Cleveland, 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 Charleston or Cleveland?

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 Charleston or Cleveland in the Summer?

Both Cleveland and Charleston during the summer are popular places to visit. The summer months attract visitors to Charleston because of the beaches, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, the music scene and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Cleveland this time of year.

In the summer, Charleston is a little warmer than Cleveland. Typically, the summer temperatures in Charleston in July average around 82°F (28°C), and Cleveland averages at about 75°F (24°C).

In Cleveland, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Charleston. In the summer, Charleston often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Cleveland. Charleston gets 293 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Cleveland receives 307 hours of full sun.

Cleveland gets a good bit of rain this time of year. It rains a lot this time of the year in Charleston. Charleston usually gets more rain in July than Cleveland. Charleston gets 6.9 inches (176 mm) of rain, while Cleveland receives 4 inches (101 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Charleston or Cleveland in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Charleston and Cleveland. The shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Charleston this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Cleveland for the shopping scene and the music scene.

In October, Charleston is generally a little warmer than Cleveland. Daily temperatures in Charleston average around 67°F (19°C), and Cleveland fluctuates around 56°F (13°C).

Charleston usually receives more sunshine than Cleveland during autumn. Charleston gets 197 hours of sunny skies, while Cleveland receives 165 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Charleston usually receives more rain than Cleveland. Charleston gets 2.9 inches (74 mm) of rain, while Cleveland receives 1.9 inches (49 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Charleston or Cleveland in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Charleston as well as Cleveland. Many travelers come to Charleston for the museums, the Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Additionally, many visitors come to Cleveland in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Cleveland can get quite cold in the winter. Charleston is much warmer than Cleveland in the winter. The daily temperature in Charleston averages around 47°F (9°C) in January, and Cleveland fluctuates around 28°F (-2°C).

In the winter, Charleston often gets more sunshine than Cleveland. Charleston gets 188 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Cleveland receives 95 hours of full sun.

Charleston usually gets more rain in January than Cleveland. Charleston gets 3.3 inches (85 mm) of rain, while Cleveland receives 1.5 inches (39 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Charleston or Cleveland in the Spring?

Both Cleveland and Charleston are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Charleston in the spring for the beaches and the natural beauty.

In the spring, Charleston is much warmer than Cleveland. Typically, the spring temperatures in Charleston in April average around 64°F (18°C), and Cleveland averages at about 51°F (10°C).

It's quite sunny in Cleveland. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Charleston. Charleston usually receives more sunshine than Cleveland during spring. Charleston gets 275 hours of sunny skies, while Cleveland receives 213 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Charleston usually receives around the same amount of rain as Cleveland. Charleston gets 2.7 inches (69 mm) of rain, while Cleveland receives 2.8 inches (71 mm) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Cleveland and Charleston