A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Clearwater vs. Cincinnati for Attractions, Food, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Clearwater or Cincinnati?

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 Clearwater and Cincinnati. 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.

Clearwater

Clearwater is a outdoorsy, adventure-filled, and relaxing coastal city. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife. See Clearwater travel costs.

Cincinnati

Cincinnati is a hard-working, blue collar, and authentic city. It's also known for nightlife, food, and shopping. See Cincinnati travel costs.

Clearwater and Cincinnati: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Nice resorts
  • Good scuba and snorkeling destination
  • Popular beach
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with backpackers
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with couples


Is there more to do in Clearwater or Cincinnati?

Visitors will generally find more to do in Clearwater than Cincinnati. While Cincinnati is larger than Clearwater, Clearwater has more sights, attractions, and activities for tourists. Clearwater is more touristy than Cincinnati and is known for its beautiful white sand beaches, laid back atmosphere, and watersports. It is also well known for Clearwater Beach. Cincinnati is famous for its breweries and down-to-earth personality.

How is Clearwater different from Cincinnati?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Clearwater or Cincinnati?

Clearwater
Cincinnati

Both Clearwater and Cincinnati have superb landmarks and museums for visitors.

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around Clearwater. Perhaps most well known is the Clearwater Marine Aquarium, but there are also a surprising number of museums nearby such as the Dalí Museum, the impressive Chihuly Glass Museum, and the Museum of Fine Arts.

Cincinnati offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. You'll find both traditional and quirky museums around town. For outside-the-box, check out the American Sign Museum or the Behringer-Crawford Museum. Art museums include the Cincinnati Art Museum, the Contemporary Arts Center, and the Taft Museum of Art. Other popular museums include the Cincinnati Reds Hall of Fame, the National Underground Railroad Freedom Center, and the Cincinnati Museum Center at Union Terminal.


Is the Food Better in Clearwater or Cincinnati? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Clearwater
Cincinnati

Clearwater is well known for its restaurant scene. Also, Cincinnati is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Clearwater. Head to the waterfront for some of the best seafood. Unfortunately this is also where you'll find the highest prices. Shrimp, crab, and a fresh catch of the day are common on many menus.

Cincinnati is becoming an appealing option for foodies. Mixed in with the standard chain and fast food options, you'll find some local restaurants that serve up the iconic Midwestern favorites. For a taste of the town, try Cincinnati chili, barbecue ribs, and a corned beef Reuben.

Is Clearwater or Cincinnati Better for Nightlife?

Clearwater
Cincinnati

Evening events are nice in both Clearwater and Cincinnati.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Clearwater. You'll find laid back beach clubs, glitzy wine bars, and relaxed bars where you can spend a nice night out.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Cincinnati. The nightlife scene is diverse and includes music venues, breweries, and nightclubs. In addition to the city's downtown, you'll find trendy places to hang out in the Over-the-Rhine neighborhood. Breweries are popular in the city, in part because of its German roots.

Is Clearwater or Cincinnati Better for Resorts?

Clearwater
Cincinnati

Clearwater is well known for its resorts. However, Cincinnati is not a resort destination.

Clearwater is known as a popular and fun resort destination. You'll find a number of nice resorts along the coastline. Some of the most popular are the Sandpearl Resort, the Opal Sands Resort, and the Clearwater Beach Marriott.

Cincinnati is not a resort destination.


Is Clearwater or Cincinnati Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Clearwater
Cincinnati

Clearwater is a popular place for its diving and snorkeling. However, Cincinnati is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Clearwater has a few good snorkeling spots. There's both snorkeling and diving nearby. Some of the best dive spots are within and hour of the shore and you'll find diving shops that offer trips.

Cincinnati is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Clearwater or Cincinnati Better for Beaches?

Clearwater
Cincinnati

Clearwater is a world-class destination for the beach. However, Cincinnati is not a beach destination.

Travelers come from around the world to visit the beaches in Clearwater. Clearwater Beach is on many lists as one of the best beaches in America. It's the most popular beach in the area and it spreads out over 2.5 miles. Sand Key Beach is another popular destination as is the pristine Caladesi Island State Park.

Cincinnati is not a beach destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Clearwater or Cincinnati?

Clearwater
Cincinnati

Both Clearwater and Cincinnati are nice shopping destinations.

Clearwater is a great destination for shopping. You'll find all of the standard shopping options in the area such as malls, shopping centers, and outlets. Westfield Countryside Mall is a popular destination as is the Cleveland Street District.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Cincinnati. There are large shopping malls and retail outlets. You'll also find local boutiques in the Montgomery or Mariemont areas.


Is Clearwater or Cincinnati Better for Families?

Clearwater
Cincinnati

Clearwater is well known for its family-friendly activities. Also, Cincinnati is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

Clearwater is a very kid-friendly coastal city. Check out the playground and activities around Pier 60. Less crowded and family-friendly Sand Key Park is another favorite spot and the playgrounds at New Coachman Park and Crest Lake Park are also fun. Clearwater Marine Aquarium is another popular attraction for visitors with kids.

Cincinnati offers lots of family activities. There's a surprising number of kid-friendly activities around town like the Cincinnati Zoo, the Cincinnati Museum Center, Newport Aquarium, and Smale Riverfront Park.

Is Clearwater or Cincinnati Better for Couples?

Clearwater
Cincinnati

Clearwater is well known for its romantic activities. However, Cincinnati is not particularly known for couples.

Couples visit Clearwater frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. There are beautiful parks and beaches as well as romantic activities like sunset cruises and dolphin spotting tours. Couples will also enjoy dining on local seafood and shopping at the local venues.

Cincinnati is not always the best place to visit for a couple. If you do find yourself in town for a few days, there are several good restaurants and a number of music venues that can keep the visit fun and entertaining.

Is Clearwater or Cincinnati Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Clearwater
Cincinnati

Cincinnati is a good destination for backpackers. However, Clearwater is a mediocre coastal city for backpackers and budget travelers.

Plenty of backpackers visit Cincinnati. There are actually a couple of hostels in town for backpackers or students.

Clearwater is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. There is a hostel in town, and you'll find more affordable prices than in some nearby beach destinations.


Is Clearwater or Cincinnati Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Clearwater
Cincinnati

Cincinnati is a good destination for its public transit. However, Clearwater is a mediocre coastal city for times when you don't have a car.

Cincinnati has a few public transit options. There are two bus systems around town - the METRO and TANK bus systems. There's also a streetcar that travels through the downtown.

Public transit is mostly limited in Clearwater. The Clearwater Jolley Trolley connects some of the area's highlights. There are also public buses that run several routes through town.

Is Clearwater or Cincinnati a more walkable city?

Clearwater
Cincinnati

Cincinnati is notable for its walkability. Also, Clearwater is not as famous, but is still a good coastal city to visit for its high level of walkability.

Cincinnati is very walkable. There are several surprisingly walkable areas, particularly downtown and the nearby neighborhoods.

Clearwater is a somewhat walkable place. The waterfront and downtown areas are surprisingly walkable.

For even more information, also check out Is Clearwater Worth Visiting? and Is Cincinnati Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Cincinnati or Clearwater?

How long in Clearwater or Cincinnati?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Clearwater or Cincinnati to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Clearwater than Cincinnati because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 3-5 days is a good amount of time for Clearwater, and 1-2 days is enough time in Cincinnati.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Cincinnati than Clearwater 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 Cincinnati.


  • How many days in Clearwater or Cincinnati? Ideal Length of Stay
    Clearwater 3-5 
    Cincinnati 1-2

One day in Clearwater or Cincinnati?

With food and scuba diving and snorkeling around the outdoorsy coastal city of Clearwater, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. One of the main draws to the area is the beaches. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

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


A weekend in Clearwater or Cincinnati?

With scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping around the destination of Clearwater, there's plenty to do. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. It offers something for everyone. One of the main draws to the area is the beaches. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything.

With nightlife and food around the destination of Cincinnati, 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 Clearwater or Cincinnati?

Clearwater, a popular coastal city, is full of activities for travelers. This is a popular place to visit for five days. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. In five days, you should have a good grasp of this coastal city. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Cincinnati, 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 Clearwater or Cincinnati?

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

Cincinnati 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 Camping Tours in United States of America, The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in United States of America, The Best Polar Tours & Cruises in United States of America, and The Best Walking Tours in United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Cincinnati or Clearwater?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations. These travel costs come from the actual spending of real travelers.

  • Clearwater Prices
    USA Prices
    Cincinnati Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Clearwater $343
    Cincinnati $223

The average daily cost (per person) in Clearwater is $343, while the average daily cost in Cincinnati is $223. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Clearwater and Cincinnati in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Clearwater $141
    Cincinnati $102
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Clearwater $282
    Cincinnati $204
Compare Hotels in Clearwater and Cincinnati

Looking for a hotel in Clearwater or Cincinnati? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Clearwater


Hotels in Cincinnati


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Clearwater Hotel Prices and Cincinnati Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Clearwater $221
    Cincinnati $25

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Clearwater

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Clearwater:

  • Private Transfer from St Petersburg Clearwater Airport to St Pete Beach: $65
  • St. Pete–Clearwater Airport (PIE) to Clearwater Beach - Arrival Private Transfer: $102
  • St. Pete–Clearwater Airport (PIE) to St. Petersburg - Arrival Private Transfer : $63
  • St. Pete–Clearwater Airport (PIE) to St. Petersburg - Roundtrip Private Transfer: $127
  • St. Petersburg to St. Pete–Clearwater Airport (PIE) - Departure Private Transfer: $63

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Cincinnati

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Cincinnati:

  • Cincinnati to Cincinnati Airport (CVG) - Departure Private Transfer: $35
  • Private Airport Transfer: $135

Is it cheaper to fly into Clearwater or Cincinnati?

Prices for flights to both Cincinnati and Clearwater change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    Clearwater $79
    Cincinnati $95

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Cincinnati

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Cincinnati.

  • Ohio River Cruise with Buffet Dinner: $63
  • Cincinnati Walking Food Tour With Secret Food Tours: $75
  • Mainstrasse Village Food Tour in Covington KY: $79
  • City Food Tour: $79
  • Cincinnati Streetcar Food Tour with Vegan Options: $85
  • Cincinnati Streetcar Food Tour With Findlay Market : $85
  • Cincinnati Walking Sightseeing Tour with Pizza and Ice-cream: $120

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Clearwater -
    Cincinnati $26

Tours and Activities in Clearwater

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Clearwater are as follows:

  • Scavenger Hunt Adventure in Clearwater by Operation City Quest: $10
  • St. Petersburg Jungle Prada Site History Tour: $14
  • St. Petersburg Ghosts Tour: $20
  • Clearwater; Aspirations Winery Tour and Tasting Experience: $24
  • St. Pete Booze Cruise 21+ (All You Can Drink Pass Available): $26
  • Daytime Yacht Sightseeing Cruise with Optional Dining : $27
  • 1-hour Dolphin Sightseeing Adventure Cruise from Madeira Beach: $28
  • Clearwater Beach: Dolphin and Island Sandbar Boat Tour: $28
  • Shark Teeth and Shells, Dolphin and Shelling Tour Boat Clearwater Beach : $28
  • Clearwater Beach: Sunset and Harbor Lights Cruise: $28
  • Mega Bite Dolphin Tour Boat in Clearwater Beach: $28
  • Dolphin-Watching Sunset Cruise: $29

Tours and Activities in Cincinnati

Here are a few actual costs in Cincinnati for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • Mount Adams Historic Smartphone Guided App GPS Audio Walking Tour: $6.75
  • Mt Adams Historic, Cincinnati, App/GPS Audio Walking Tour: $6.75
  • Self-Guided Haunted Walking Audio Tour: $6.75
  • Self Guided Cincinnati Ghost Haunted Walking Tour Audio Tour Music Hall OTR: $7.75
  • Self Guided Walking Tour of Cincinnati: $12
  • Reds Hall of Fame and Museum Entry Ticket: $15
  • Tour of Historic Wesleyan Cemetery: $20
  • Cincinnati Ghosts By US Ghost Adventures: $20
  • Smartphone-Guided Walking Tour of Downtown Cincinnati: $25
  • Cincinnati Ghosts: Poltergeists Haunted Walking Tour: $26
  • Smartphone-Guided Walking Tour of Downtown Cincinnati Sights & Stories: $28
  • Haunted Tour in Mount Healthy from Cincinnati: $29

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Clearwater -
    Cincinnati $11

Sample the Local Flavors in Clearwater

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Clearwater:

  • The Tour and Wine Tasting Experience at Aspirations Winery: $20
  • 2 Hour Hopping and Brewery Tour on a Party Bike in St. Petersburg: $36

Sample the Local Flavors in Cincinnati

Also in Cincinnati, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • Self-Guided Scavenger Hunt: Cin-sational Cincinnati Bar Crawl: $12
  • Hidden Brewery Caverns Tour in Cincinnati with Beer Tasting: $49
  • Craft Brewery 3 Stop Hop: $64


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

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


Which is Bigger, Clearwater or Cincinnati?

Cincinnati has a larger population, and is about 3 times larger than the population of Clearwater. When comparing the sizes of Clearwater and Cincinnati, 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 Clearwater or Cincinnati?

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 Clearwater or Cincinnati in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Clearwater and Cincinnati. The beaches, snorkeling, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Clearwater this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Cincinnati for the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Clearwater is around the same temperature as Cincinnati. Typically, the summer temperatures in Clearwater in July average around 82°F (28°C), and Cincinnati averages at about 79°F (26°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Cincinnati this time of the year. In Clearwater, it's very sunny this time of the year. Clearwater usually receives less sunshine than Cincinnati during summer. Clearwater gets 265 hours of sunny skies, while Cincinnati receives 298 hours of full sun in the summer.

Clearwater gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In July, Clearwater usually receives more rain than Cincinnati. Clearwater gets 8.4 inches (214 mm) of rain, while Cincinnati receives 3.5 inches (90 mm) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Clearwater 82°F (28°C) 
    Cincinnati 79°F (26°C)

Should I visit Clearwater or Cincinnati in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Clearwater as well as Cincinnati. Many travelers come to Clearwater for the shopping scene. Additionally, many visitors come to Cincinnati in the autumn for the shopping scene.

In October, Clearwater is generally much warmer than Cincinnati. Daily temperatures in Clearwater average around 75°F (24°C), and Cincinnati fluctuates around 58°F (15°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Clearwater this time of the year. In the autumn, Clearwater often gets more sunshine than Cincinnati. Clearwater gets 234 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Cincinnati receives 188 hours of full sun.

Clearwater usually gets more rain in October than Cincinnati. Clearwater gets 2.6 inches (65 mm) of rain, while Cincinnati receives 2.2 inches (56 mm) of rain this time of the year. Also, June to November in Clearwater is the hurricane season.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Clearwater 75°F (24°C) 
    Cincinnati 58°F (15°C)

Should I visit Clearwater or Cincinnati in the Winter?

Both Cincinnati and Clearwater are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Clearwater in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Cincinnati for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Cincinnati can be very cold during winter. Clearwater is much warmer than Cincinnati in the winter. The daily temperature in Clearwater averages around 60°F (15°C) in January, and Cincinnati fluctuates around 31°F (-0°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Clearwater. Clearwater usually receives more sunshine than Cincinnati during winter. Clearwater gets 200 hours of sunny skies, while Cincinnati receives 129 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Clearwater usually receives around the same amount of rain as Cincinnati. Clearwater gets 2.3 inches (59 mm) of rain, while Cincinnati receives 2.2 inches (57 mm) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Clearwater 60°F (15°C) 
    Cincinnati 31°F (-0°C)

Should I visit Clearwater or Cincinnati in the Spring?

Both Cincinnati and Clearwater during the spring are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Clearwater for the beaches during these months.

In the spring, Clearwater is much warmer than Cincinnati. Typically, the spring temperatures in Clearwater in April average around 71°F (22°C), and Cincinnati averages at about 56°F (14°C).

In Cincinnati, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Clearwater. In the spring, Clearwater often gets more sunshine than Cincinnati. Clearwater gets 299 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Cincinnati receives 215 hours of full sun.

Clearwater usually gets less rain in April than Cincinnati. Clearwater gets 2.1 inches (53 mm) of rain, while Cincinnati receives 3.5 inches (89 mm) of rain this time of the year. Also, the hurricane season in Clearwater is June to November.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Clearwater 71°F (22°C) 
    Cincinnati 56°F (14°C)

Typical Weather for Cincinnati and Clearwater

Clearwater Cincinnati
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 60°F (15°C) 2.3 inches (59 mm) 31°F (-0°C) 2.2 inches (57 mm)
Feb 61°F (16°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm) 35°F (2°C) 2.5 inches (64 mm)
Mar 67°F (19°C) 3.9 inches (99 mm) 46°F (8°C) 3.9 inches (100 mm)
Apr 71°F (22°C) 2.1 inches (53 mm) 56°F (14°C) 3.5 inches (89 mm)
May 77°F (25°C) 2.4 inches (61 mm) 66°F (19°C) 3.7 inches (93 mm)
Jun 81°F (27°C) 6.5 inches (165 mm) 74°F (24°C) 3.1 inches (80 mm)
Jul 82°F (28°C) 8.4 inches (214 mm) 79°F (26°C) 3.5 inches (90 mm)
Aug 82°F (28°C) 8 inches (203 mm) 77°F (25°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm)
Sep 81°F (27°C) 6.3 inches (161 mm) 71°F (21°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm)
Oct 75°F (24°C) 2.6 inches (65 mm) 58°F (15°C) 2.2 inches (56 mm)
Nov 68°F (20°C) 1.8 inches (45 mm) 48°F (9°C) 2.7 inches (68 mm)
Dec 62°F (17°C) 2.2 inches (56 mm) 37°F (3°C) 2.7 inches (69 mm)