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

Should you visit Clearwater 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 Clearwater 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.

Clearwater

Clearwater is a adventure-filled, relaxing, and beautiful coastal city. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food.

Providence

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

Clearwater and Providence: 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 couples and romance
  • Good for students
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with backpackers


Is there more to do in Clearwater or Providence?

Travelers will generally find more things to do in Clearwater than Providence. While Providence is larger than Clearwater, Clearwater has more sights and attractions for tourists. Clearwater is more touristy than Providence and is popular for its beautiful white sand beaches, laid back atmosphere, and watersports. Also, Clearwater is famous for Clearwater Beach. Providence is well known for its outdoor parks, historic atmosphere, and college town vibe.

How is Clearwater different from Providence?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Clearwater
Providence

Clearwater is a great coastal city for its historical sights. Also, Providence is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its sights and museums.

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.

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

Clearwater
Providence

Foodies will find both Clearwater and Providence both to be excellent destinations.

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

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 Clearwater or Providence Better for Nightlife?

Clearwater
Providence

Evening events are notable in both Clearwater and Providence.

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 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 Clearwater or Providence Better for Resorts?

Clearwater
Providence

Clearwater is a great coastal city for its luxury resorts. However, Providence is not a resort destination.

There are plenty of resorts in Clearwater to choose from. 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.

Providence is not a resort destination.


Is Clearwater or Providence Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Clearwater
Providence

Clearwater is a good destination for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Providence is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Grab a mask and fins and explore the underwater scenery in Clearwater. 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.

Providence is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Clearwater or Providence Better for Beaches?

Clearwater
Providence

Clearwater is an unbeatable place for the beach. However, Providence is not a beach destination.

Clearwater offers stunning beaches that attract visitors from around the world. 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.

Providence is not a beach destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Clearwater or Providence?

Clearwater
Providence

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


Is Clearwater or Providence Better for Families?

Clearwater
Providence

Clearwater is a great coastal city for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Providence is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its family-friendly activities.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Clearwater. 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.

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 Clearwater or Providence Better for Couples?

Clearwater
Providence

Clearwater is a great coastal city for couples. Also, Providence is not as popular, but is still a nice city for romance.

Clearwater is a great coastal city if you're traveling as a couple. 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.

Providence is a nice destination for couples. 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 Clearwater or Providence Better for Students?

Clearwater
Providence

Providence is notable for students. However, Clearwater is not popular with students.

Many students visit Providence. 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.

Clearwater is not popular with students.


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

Clearwater
Providence

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

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

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 Providence a more walkable city?

Clearwater
Providence

Providence 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.

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

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 Providence Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Providence or Clearwater?

How long in Clearwater or Providence?

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

Families should spend more time in Clearwater than Providence. 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 Providence. 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.


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

One day in Clearwater or Providence?

With food and scuba diving and snorkeling around the relaxing 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 active city of Providence, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.


A weekend in Clearwater or Providence?

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 Providence, 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 Providence?

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.

Providence, 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 Providence?

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.

Providence 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.


Which place is cheaper, Providence or Clearwater?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Clearwater is $309, while the average daily cost in Providence is $210. 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 Providence in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Clearwater $141
    Providence $114
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Clearwater $282
    Providence $228
Compare Hotels in Clearwater and Providence

Looking for a hotel in Clearwater or Providence? 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 Providence


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 Providence Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Clearwater $221
    Providence $46

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Clearwater

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Clearwater:

  • Pete–Clearwater Airport to Clearwater Beach Round-Trip Transfer: $146
  • St. Pete–Clearwater Airport (PIE) to St. Petersburg - Roundtrip Private Transfer: $129
  • Private Transfer from Clearwater to Tampa Airport: $120
  • Private Airport Transfer to St. Petersburg or Clearwater Beach : $105
  • St. Pete–Clearwater Airport (PIE) to Clearwater Beach - Arrival Private Transfer: $103
  • Clearwater Beach to St.Pete–Clearwater Airport (PIE) -Departure Private Transfer: $103
  • From Orlando: Clearwater Beach Day with Transfers and Lunch: $100
  • St Petersburg to Tampa Airport (TPA) -Departure Private Transfer: $89
  • Clearwater Beach to Tampa Airport (TPA) - Departure Private Transfer: $89
  • Private Transfer from St Petersburg Clearwater Airport to St Pete Beach: $75
  • St. Petersburg to St. Pete–Clearwater Airport (PIE) - Departure Private Transfer: $64
  • St. Pete–Clearwater Airport (PIE) to St. Petersburg - Arrival Private Transfer : $64

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Providence

Also for Providence, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Private Departure Transfer to Providence TF Green Airport PVD: $36
  • Providence to Rhode Island Airport PVD Departure Transfer : $47
  • T. F. Green State Airport (PVD) to Providence – Arrival Private Transfer : $47
  • Private Transfer from Providence Airport (PVD) to Newport Port : $50
  • Private Transfer from Providence City Hotels to Newport Port: $62
  • T. F. Green State Airport (PVD) to Providence - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $93
  • Providence to Boston’s Logan International Airport - Departure Private Transfer: $173
  • New York’s JFK International Airport to Providence – Departure Private Transfer: $277

Is it cheaper to fly into Clearwater or Providence?

Prices for flights to both Providence 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 $46
    Providence $48

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Clearwater

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

  • 2 Hours Beach Bites & Brews Food Tour in Gulfport, Florida: $69

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Providence

For Providence, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Downcity Providence Food Tour: $89

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

Tours and Activities in Clearwater

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

  • 1-hour Dolphin Sightseeing Adventure Cruise from Madeira Beach: $28
  • 1.5 Hour Tiki Tour with Open Bar in Clearwater Beach: $49
  • 2 Hour Guided Kayak Tour in Boca Ciega Bay - St. Pete: $55
  • 2 Hour Guided Segway Tour of Downtown St Pete: $59
  • 2 Hour Sunset Cruise in Clearwater, Florida: $35
  • 2 Hour Sunset Kayak Tour: War Veterans Memorial Park: $59
  • 2 Hour Tandem Kayak Tour (Price for 2 People): $110
  • 2 Hours Kayak Eco Tour in Tarpon Springs: $49
  • 2-Hour Sunset Cruise Tour in St. Petersburg: $67
  • 3-hour Food Tasting Walking Tour of Dunedin: $100
  • 4-Hour St. Pete Pier to Egmont Key Experience by Ferry: $67
  • 90 Minute Axe Throwing Guided Experience in Clearwater at Hatchet Hangout: $50

Tours and Activities in Providence

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Providence.

  • Providence Scavenger Hunt: Providence Adventure: $12
  • Downtown Providence Self-Driving Audio Tour: $13
  • Providence, RI: Murder Mystery Detective Experience: $15
  • Murder Mystery Detective Experience Providence, RI: $15
  • Self-Driving Audio Tour: $15
  • Ghosts, Phantoms and Poltergeists Walking Tour: $26
  • Parasols and Pocket Watches: A History Tour: $30
  • Providence Ghosts Phantoms and Poltergeists Tour: $30
  • Haunted History Walking Tour of Providence: $30
  • Providence Mob Walking Tour: $33
  • Narrated Boat Tours: $38
  • Discover Providence Guided Sightseeing Tour: $40

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Clearwater -
    Providence $13

Sample the Local Flavors in Clearwater

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Clearwater:

  • The Tour and Wine Tasting Experience at Aspirations Winery: $32


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Clearwater and Providence, we can see that Clearwater 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 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 Providence.

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


Which is Bigger, Clearwater or Providence?

Providence has a larger population, and is about 64% larger than the population of Clearwater. When comparing the sizes of Clearwater 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 Clearwater 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 Clearwater or Providence in the Summer?

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

In July, Clearwater is generally a little warmer than Providence. Daily temperatures in Clearwater average around 82°F (28°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 Clearwater this time of the year. In the summer, Clearwater often gets less sunshine than Providence. Clearwater gets 265 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Providence receives 293 hours of full sun.

Clearwater receives a lot of rain in the summer. Clearwater usually gets more rain in July than Providence. Clearwater gets 8.4 inches (214 mm) of rain, while Providence receives 2.8 inches (72 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Clearwater 82°F (28°C) 
    Providence 73°F (23°C)

Should I visit Clearwater or Providence in the Autumn?

Both Providence and Clearwater are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The shopping scene are the main draw to Clearwater this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Providence for the shopping scene.

Clearwater is much warmer than Providence in the autumn. The daily temperature in Clearwater averages around 75°F (24°C) in October, and Providence fluctuates around 53°F (12°C).

It's quite sunny in Providence. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Clearwater. Clearwater usually receives more sunshine than Providence during autumn. Clearwater gets 234 hours of sunny skies, while Providence receives 211 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Clearwater usually receives less rain than Providence. Clearwater gets 2.6 inches (65 mm) of rain, while Providence receives 3.3 inches (83 mm) of rain each month for the autumn. The hurricane season in Clearwater is June to November.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Clearwater 75°F (24°C) 
    Providence 53°F (12°C)

Should I visit Clearwater or Providence in the Winter?

Both Providence and Clearwater during the winter are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Clearwater for the museums, the shopping scene, 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. In the winter, Clearwater is much warmer than Providence. Typically, the winter temperatures in Clearwater in January average around 60°F (15°C), and Providence averages at about 28°F (-2°C).

It's quite sunny in Clearwater. In the winter, Clearwater often gets more sunshine than Providence. Clearwater gets 200 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Providence receives 170 hours of full sun.

Clearwater usually gets less rain in January than Providence. Clearwater gets 2.3 inches (59 mm) of rain, while Providence receives 3.5 inches (89 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Clearwater 60°F (15°C) 
    Providence 28°F (-2°C)

Should I visit Clearwater or Providence in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Clearwater and Providence. Many visitors come to Clearwater in the spring for the beaches.

In April, Clearwater is generally much warmer than Providence. Daily temperatures in Clearwater average around 71°F (22°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 Clearwater, it's very sunny this time of the year. Clearwater usually receives more sunshine than Providence during spring. Clearwater gets 299 hours of sunny skies, while Providence receives 225 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Clearwater usually receives less rain than Providence. Clearwater gets 2.1 inches (53 mm) of rain, while Providence receives 3.7 inches (94 mm) of rain each month for the spring. June to November is the hurricane season in Clearwater.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Clearwater 71°F (22°C) 
    Providence 48°F (9°C)

Typical Weather for Providence and Clearwater

Clearwater Providence
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 60°F (15°C) 2.3 inches (59 mm) 28°F (-2°C) 3.5 inches (89 mm)
Feb 61°F (16°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm) 30°F (-1°C) 3.5 inches (88 mm)
Mar 67°F (19°C) 3.9 inches (99 mm) 38°F (3°C) 4 inches (101 mm)
Apr 71°F (22°C) 2.1 inches (53 mm) 48°F (9°C) 3.7 inches (94 mm)
May 77°F (25°C) 2.4 inches (61 mm) 58°F (15°C) 3.5 inches (89 mm)
Jun 81°F (27°C) 6.5 inches (165 mm) 67°F (20°C) 2.6 inches (67 mm)
Jul 82°F (28°C) 8.4 inches (214 mm) 73°F (23°C) 2.8 inches (72 mm)
Aug 82°F (28°C) 8 inches (203 mm) 72°F (22°C) 3.9 inches (99 mm)
Sep 81°F (27°C) 6.3 inches (161 mm) 64°F (18°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm)
Oct 75°F (24°C) 2.6 inches (65 mm) 53°F (12°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm)
Nov 68°F (20°C) 1.8 inches (45 mm) 44°F (7°C) 4.5 inches (115 mm)
Dec 62°F (17°C) 2.2 inches (56 mm) 33°F (0°C) 4.1 inches (105 mm)