A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Detroit vs. Hood River for Food, Nightlife, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Detroit or Hood River?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Detroit or Hood River, 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.

Detroit

Detroit is a hardworking, overlooked , and under-rated city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. Visitors also love the food, shopping, and museums.

Hood River

Hood River is a agricultural, quaint, and scenic town. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Visitors also love the shopping, skiing, and nightlife.

Detroit and Hood River: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Family-friendly
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with couples
  • Less popular with backpackers
Pros
  • Popular for skiing
  • Active nightlife
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights


Is there more to do in Detroit or Hood River?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Detroit than Hood River, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Detroit is better known for its museums, nightlife, music, and big city activities, while Hood River is more popular for its skiing, food, hiking, and impressive beauty. Hood River is more touristy than Detroit and is known for its waterfalls, wineries, and impressive mountains. Detroit is well known for its Motown music, blue collar atmosphere, and influential auto industry. Also, Detroit is famous for the Henry Ford Experience.

How is Detroit different from Hood River?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Detroit or Hood River Better for Skiing?

Detroit
Hood River

Hood River is a nice place to visit for skiing and snowboarding. However, Detroit is not a skiing destination.

For winter sports and skiing, Hood River is a great destination to visit. During the winter months, Hood River makes a nice base for nearby skiing. Timberline and Cooper Spur and both less than an hour away and offer great skiing opportunities.

Detroit is not a skiing destination.


Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Detroit or Hood River?

Detroit
Hood River

Detroit is a popular place for its museums and history. However, Hood River is lacking in good options for its museums and landmarks.

Detroit offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. Popular museums around town include the Detroit Institute of Arts, the Detroit Historical Museum, and the Michigan Science Center.

Hood River offers a handful of options for museums and historical sights. There are a couple of interesting museums in town such as the Western Antique Aeroplane and Automoblie Museum, the History Museum, and 301 Gallery.

Is the Food Better in Detroit or Hood River? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Detroit
Hood River

Hood River is a very popular place for its restaurants. Also, Detroit is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

Hood River has a huge number of terrific restaurants. Head to the downtown or waterfront areas for the best selection of restaurants. Most restaurants pride themselves on using local ingredients and supporting local farms. Dishes use fresh and healthy ingredients that make simple but high quality meals.

There are many up and coming restaurants in the Detroit area. There's a local flavor to the food with a number of classic dishes that are popular like square pizza, Coney dogs, and corned beef egg rolls.

Is Detroit or Hood River Better for Nightlife?

Detroit
Hood River

Detroit is a very popular place for nightlife and partying. Also, Hood River is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its evening party scene.

Detroit has a large number of nightlife venues. It's long history in music still influences the nightlife scene. You'll find bars, clubs, and other activities around town. Greektown and Midtown are both popular neighborhoods during the evening.

Hood River has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. There are breweries, wineries, and local bars in the area that offer a laid back place where you can enjoy the local atmosphere.


Is Detroit or Hood River Better for Music?

Detroit
Hood River

Detroit is an unbeatable place for its live music scene. However, Hood River is not a live music destination.

With so many music venues, you're guaranteed a show any night of the week in Detroit. Few cities have such an influential music industry. It's home to Motown and is well known for its soul music, jazz, blues, and rap.

Hood River is not a live music destination.

Is Detroit or Hood River Better for Hiking?

Detroit
Hood River

Hood River is a very popular place for its hiking trails. However, Detroit is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors explore the nearby hiking trails while visiting Hood River. There's a diversity of landscapes in the area that include waterfalls, agriculture, vineyards, and high-reaching mountain peaks. The best way to experience these is through the many hiking trails. Drive along the Historic Columbia River Highway and stop off at the trails that lead to the waterfalls, or head south of town to explore the vineyards on foot, and to the north where you'll find mountain peaks.

Detroit is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Detroit or Hood River?

Detroit
Hood River

Shoppers can find a variety of notable stores in both Detroit and Hood River.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Detroit. There are several shopping streets like Woodward Avenue. There are also outlet malls, shopping centers, and Eastern Market.

Many visitors go to Hood River to go shopping. Local shops sell local produce, artisan crafts, and wine. There are boutiques and independent vendors that are fun to visit and many visitors enjoy spending an afternoon shopping.


Is Detroit or Hood River Better for Families?

Detroit
Hood River

Hood River is a very popular place for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Detroit is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Hood River is very family-friendly. The area is filled with outdoor adventures that the whole family can enjoy. There's swimming, tubing, hiking, and even windsurfing. Make sure you check out the Waterfront Park and Powerdale Substation.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Detroit. Head to the Detroit Zoo or check out one of the amusement parks in the area. Kids will enjoy a visit to Legoland and there's also the Sea Life Michigan Aquarium. You could also spend some time visiting the unique museums in the area.

Is Detroit or Hood River Better for Couples?

Detroit
Hood River

Hood River is a very popular place for its romantic activities. However, Detroit is lacking in good options for couples.

Hood River makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Couples will enjoy the scenic natural setting and charming hotels and bed and breakfasts in the area. There are romantic hikes, local wineries, and many great restaurants that you can try.

Detroit is not always the best place to visit for a couple. It's not a city that usually brings to mind romance, but if you find yourself here for a couple of days, there's a RiverWalk area and some interesting local neighborhoods.

Is Detroit or Hood River Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Detroit
Hood River

Hood River is a very popular place for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Detroit is lacking in good options for backpackers.

Many backpackers visit Hood River. There are a couple of hostels and some nice campgrounds in the area as well as many great hikes and a laid back atmosphere that backpackers appreciate.

Detroit is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. There are a couple of hostels in the area, but this is still an often overlooked city.


Is Detroit or Hood River Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Detroit
Hood River

Visitors will find respectable public transit in both Detroit and Hood River.

Public transit is mostly limited in Detroit. There's a streetcar and bus system, but the car is still king in Motor City.

Public transit is generally limited in Hood River. There are buses in the area but you really need your own transportation to see the region efficiently.

Is Detroit or Hood River a more walkable city?

Detroit
Hood River

Detroit is a popular place for its high level of walkability. However, Hood River is lacking in good options for its ease of walking around.

Detroit is a somewhat walkable place. There are parts of downtown Detroit that are walkable, but most people need a car to get around.

Hood River is generally not very walkable. While there are parts of the town that are walkable, if you don't have a car you'll miss out on the surrounding natural landscapes and most of the hiking opportunities.

For even more information, also check out Is Detroit Worth Visiting? and Is Hood River Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Hood River or Detroit?

How long in Detroit or Hood River?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Detroit and Hood River. In our opinion, Hood River has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Hood River than Detroit. In general, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Detroit, and 2-3 days is enough time in Hood River.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Hood River than Detroit 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 Hood River.


  • How many days in Detroit or Hood River? Ideal Length of Stay
    Detroit 1-3 
    Hood River 2-3

One day in Detroit or Hood River?

With live music and food around the under-rated city of Detroit, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. One of the main draws to the area is the live music. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Detroit, one day is sufficent for most.

In Hood River, you'll find skiing and nightlife. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. This town offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.


A weekend in Detroit or Hood River?

With food and shopping around the destination of Detroit, there's plenty to do. It offers something for everyone. Many people spend a weekend here. One of the main draws to the area is the live music. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this city.

In Hood River, you'll find nightlife and food. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Hood River has to offer.

Five days in Detroit or Hood River?

Detroit, 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.

Hood River is a great place to explore. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

A week in Detroit or Hood River?

Detroit is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. One of the main draws to the area is the live music. 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Hood River. Many people enjoy the shopping and skiing when visiting Hood River. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in United States of America, The Best 2-Week Tours in United States of America, The Best 3-Week Tours in United States of America, and The Best Bicycle Tours in United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Hood River or Detroit?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Detroit is $133, while the average daily cost in Hood River is $145. 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 Detroit and Hood River in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Detroit $64
    Hood River $78
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Detroit $128
    Hood River $156
Compare Hotels in Detroit and Hood River

Looking for a hotel in Detroit or Hood River? 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 Detroit


Hotels in Hood River


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: Detroit Hotel Prices and Hood River Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Detroit $37
    Hood River $46

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Detroit

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

  • Private Transfer from Detroit City to Detroit (DTW) Airport: $142
  • Private Transfer from Detroit (DTW) Airport to Detroit City: $142
  • Private Departure Transfer to Detroit Airport DTW: $61
  • Private Departure Transfer - to Detroit Airport (DTW) by SUV: $90
  • Private Arrival Transfer - from Detroit Airport (DTW) by SUV: $90
  • Detroit City to Detroit Airport (DTW) - Departure Private Transfer: $94
  • Detroit Airport (DTW) to Detroit City - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $187
  • Detroit Airport (DTW) to Detroit City - Arrival Private Transfer: $94
  • Departure Private Transfer: Detroit to Detroit Airport DTW in Luxury SUV: $130
  • Departure Private Transfer: Detroit to Detroit Airport DTW in Business Car: $99

Is it cheaper to fly into Detroit or Hood River?

Prices for flights to both Hood River and Detroit 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
    Detroit $44
    Hood River $40

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Detroit

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

  • Fresh Mediterranean Inspired Cooking Class in a Unique Detroit Home: $104

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Detroit $21
    Hood River $18

Tours and Activities in Detroit

For Detroit, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • Ann Arbor Scavenger Hunt: Ann Arbor Adventure: $12
  • Detroit Tigers Baseball Game Ticket at Comerica Park: $9.31
  • Architectural Beauty and Hidden Gems Walking Tour: $115
  • Ghosts and Spirits Haunted Walking Tour: $26
  • Scavenger Hunt Adventure Self-Guided City Game: $10
  • Segway Tour Strait to the Point: $99
  • Spirit and History Self Guided Audio Tour: $6.50
  • Experience the season with a scavenger hunt in Ann Arbor with Holly Jolly Hunt: $20
  • LEGOLAND® Discovery Center Michigan Admission Ticket: $26
  • Motor City Ghosts Tour: $33
  • Murder Mystery Detective Experience Ann Arbor, MI: $15
  • SEA LIFE Michigan Aquarium Admission Ticket: $25

Tours and Activities in Hood River

For Hood River, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • Gift Basket Factory Tour: $31
  • Orchard Tour: $31
  • Railbikes Experience: $211
  • Portland: Multnomah Falls Scenic Air Tour: $199

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Detroit $20
    Hood River $19


When comparing the travel costs between Detroit and Hood River, we can see that Hood River 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 Detroit Expensive? and Is Hood River Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Detroit or Hood River?

Detroit has a larger population, and is about 150 times larger than the population of Hood River. When comparing the sizes of Detroit and Hood River, 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 Detroit or Hood River?

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 Detroit or Hood River in the Summer?

Both Hood River and Detroit are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Detroit in the summer for the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Hood River for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

Detroit is a little warmer than Hood River in the summer. The daily temperature in Detroit averages around 74°F (24°C) in July, and Hood River fluctuates around 68°F (20°C).

It's quite sunny in Hood River. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Detroit. Detroit usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Hood River during summer. Detroit gets 319 hours of sunny skies, while Hood River receives 338 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Detroit usually receives more rain than Hood River. Detroit gets 3.4 inches (85 mm) of rain, while Hood River receives 0.7 inches (18 mm) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Detroit 74°F (24°C) 
    Hood River 68°F (20°C)

Should I visit Detroit or Hood River in the Autumn?

Both Hood River and Detroit during the autumn are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Detroit for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the music scene during these months. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Hood River because of the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Detroit is around the same temperature as Hood River. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Detroit in October average around 54°F (12°C), and Hood River averages at about 55°F (13°C).

In the autumn, Detroit often gets more sunshine than Hood River. Detroit gets 172 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Hood River receives 155 hours of full sun.

Detroit usually gets less rain in October than Hood River. Detroit gets 2.3 inches (58 mm) of rain, while Hood River receives 2.6 inches (67 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Detroit 54°F (12°C) 
    Hood River 55°F (13°C)

Should I visit Detroit or Hood River in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Detroit and Hood River. The winter months attract visitors to Detroit because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, the skiing, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Hood River this time of year.

It's quite cold in Hood River in the winter. The weather in Detroit can be very cold. In January, Detroit is generally much colder than Hood River. Daily temperatures in Detroit average around 25°F (-4°C), and Hood River fluctuates around 40°F (4°C).

Detroit usually receives more sunshine than Hood River during winter. Detroit gets 120 hours of sunny skies, while Hood River receives 86 hours of full sun in the winter.

Hood River receives a lot of rain in the winter. In January, Detroit usually receives less rain than Hood River. Detroit gets 2 inches (50 mm) of rain, while Hood River receives 5.2 inches (132 mm) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Detroit 25°F (-4°C) 
    Hood River 40°F (4°C)

Should I visit Detroit or Hood River in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Detroit as well as Hood River. The activities around the city are the main draw to Detroit this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Hood River for the natural beauty.

Detroit is cooler than Hood River in the spring. The daily temperature in Detroit averages around 49°F (9°C) in April, and Hood River fluctuates around 51°F (11°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Hood River. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Detroit this time of the year. In the spring, Detroit often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Hood River. Detroit gets 223 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Hood River receives 231 hours of full sun.

Detroit usually gets more rain in April than Hood River. Detroit gets 3.2 inches (80 mm) of rain, while Hood River receives 2.4 inches (61 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Detroit 49°F (9°C) 
    Hood River 51°F (11°C)

Typical Weather for Hood River and Detroit

Detroit Hood River
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 25°F (-4°C) 2 inches (50 mm) 40°F (4°C) 5.2 inches (132 mm)
Feb 27°F (-3°C) 2.1 inches (54 mm) 44°F (7°C) 3.9 inches (98 mm)
Mar 37°F (3°C) 2.8 inches (72 mm) 47°F (9°C) 3.6 inches (92 mm)
Apr 49°F (9°C) 3.2 inches (80 mm) 51°F (11°C) 2.4 inches (61 mm)
May 60°F (16°C) 3 inches (76 mm) 57°F (14°C) 2 inches (51 mm)
Jun 70°F (21°C) 3.8 inches (97 mm) 64°F (18°C) 1.5 inches (39 mm)
Jul 74°F (24°C) 3.4 inches (85 mm) 68°F (20°C) 0.7 inches (18 mm)
Aug 73°F (23°C) 3.4 inches (86 mm) 69°F (20°C) 1 inches (25 mm)
Sep 65°F (19°C) 3.4 inches (87 mm) 63°F (17°C) 1.7 inches (44 mm)
Oct 54°F (12°C) 2.3 inches (58 mm) 55°F (13°C) 2.6 inches (67 mm)
Nov 43°F (6°C) 3 inches (75 mm) 46°F (8°C) 5.4 inches (136 mm)
Dec 31°F (-1°C) 3.2 inches (82 mm) 40°F (5°C) 6.1 inches (156 mm)