A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Detroit vs. New York City for Attractions, Food, Nightlife, and Music

Should you visit Detroit or New York City?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Detroit or New York City, 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 under-rated, hardworking, and overlooked city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. Other reasons to visit include live music, food, and shopping.

New York City

New York City is a one-of-a-kind, vibrant, and energetic city. With plenty of activities and things to do, it's a huge city that draws plenty of visitors. It's a beautiful place to visit, too. Visitors also love the live music, food, and shopping.

Detroit and New York City: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Detroit or New York City?

Tourists will generally find more to do in New York City than Detroit. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. New York City is more touristy than Detroit and is known for its high-reaching skyscrapers, iconic landmarks, world-class theater scene, and endless energy. It is also well known for The Statue of Liberty. Detroit is famous for its Motown music, blue collar atmosphere, and influential auto industry.

How is Detroit different from New York City?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Detroit or New York City?

New York City is an unbeatable place for its museums and history. Also, Detroit is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its museums and landmarks.

The museums and tourist attractions in New York City are world-renowned. The sights and museums around the city are too numerous to list, but some of the most famous include the Statue of Liberty, the Metropolitan Museum of Art, the Museum of Modern Art, Central Park, and the Empire State Building. This is a city that is filled with iconic landmarks and you could spend weeks here and still not see it all.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Detroit. Popular museums around town include the Detroit Institute of Arts, the Detroit Historical Museum, and the Michigan Science Center.

Is Detroit or New York City Better for Theater?

New York City is an unbeatable place for its theatre productions. However, Detroit is not a theatre destination.

Famous for its theaters and plays, you'll find world-renowned shows in New York City. Visiting Broadway is a quintessential NYC experience. Whether you enjoy the theater or simply want to experience something new, seeing a Broadway show is a true bucket list activity.

Detroit is not a theatre destination.

Is the Food Better in Detroit or New York City? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

New York City is an unbeatable place for its restaurants. Also, Detroit is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

Known for it's food and restaurant scene, New York City is always at the top of any foodie's travel list. The city has a diverse variety of restaurants, with everything from local dives to Michelin star options. There are many neighborhoods that are notable for their ethnic cuisine, particularly Little Italy and Chinatown. Quintessential NYC dishes include NYC pizza, NYC hot dogs, bagels, and Chinese dim sum.

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 New York City Better for Nightlife?

New York City is an unbeatable place for nightlife and partying. Also, Detroit is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its evening party scene.

The nightlife in New York City is well established with world renowned clubs and venues. Known as the city that never sleeps, you can be assured that NYC has some of the best nightlife in the world. There are world class bars and clubs, but also local venues that have a more relaxed atmosphere. Several famous clubs include Paul's Cocktail Lounge, Le Bain, and Avant Gardner.

Detroit is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. 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.

Is Detroit or New York City Better for Music?

It can be fun to see live music in either Detroit and New York City.

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.

In New York City you'll find nightly musicians performing at a variety of venues. Popular music venues include Music Hall of Williamsburg, Radio City Music Hall, Beacon Theatre, and Forest Hills Stadium.

Is the Shopping Better in Detroit or New York City?

New York City is an unbeatable place for its shopping opportunities. Also, Detroit is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its shopping areas.

Known for shopping, New York City draws large crowds to its stores. The shopping is as diverse as the city itself. Head for Fifth Avenue for high end shopping or check out any of the many street markets for local items. New York is known for its many flea markets where you can find vintage items at a good price. And if you're looking to pick up a souvenir shirt or knick knack, there are plenty of souvenir shops around town as well.

Many visitors go to Detroit to go shopping. There are several shopping streets like Woodward Avenue. There are also outlet malls, shopping centers, and Eastern Market.

Is Detroit or New York City Better for Christmas?

New York City is an unbeatable place for its Christmas holiday experiences. However, Detroit does not offer Christmas activities.

New York City offers plenty of sights and activities around Christmas. Christmas in the city is a quintessential experience. From the Christmas tree and ice skating at Rockefeller Center to seeing a live performance of the Nutcracker, everyone enjoys the holidays in New York.

Detroit does not offer Christmas activities.

Is Detroit or New York City Better for Christmas Markets?

New York City is a very popular place for visiting Christmas markets. However, Detroit does not offer Christmas markets.

New York City has a large number of Christmas markets. There are a number of Christmas markets that pop up around town during the holiday season. Nothing will get you more in the holiday spirit than wandering these unique venues.

Detroit does not offer Christmas markets.

Is Detroit or New York City Better for Families?

New York City 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, New York City is very family-friendly. The city has many activities for kids of all ages including world class museums, beautifully designed playgrounds, and theater shows designed just for young ones. There are many kid-friendly restaurants as well and older kids will enjoy visiting the iconic landmarks in this world-class city.

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 New York City Better for Couples?

New York City is an unbeatable place for its romantic activities. However, Detroit is lacking in good options for couples.

New York City has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. From a beautiful carriage ride through Central Park, to a romantic river cruise at night, there is an endless list of unique activities that couples can enjoy in the city. Whether you're interested in theater, the arts, music, or nightlife, this city has it all.

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 New York City Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

New York City is a very popular place for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Detroit is lacking in good options for backpackers.

Many backpackers visit New York City. It isn't a particularly budget-friendly destination, but it does get its share of backpackers, so you'll find a nice list of hostels and affordable hangouts that are perfect for the backpacker crowd. This is probably one of the most popular cities for backpackers in the entire United States.

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 New York City Better for Students?

New York City is an unbeatable place for its student-friendly activities. However, Detroit is not popular with students.

New York City is a great destination for students. The city has a diverse population, and international students will feel right at home here exploring the city. There are also plenty of major universities including NYU, Columbia University, and Cornell University.

Detroit is not popular with students.

Is Detroit or New York City Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

New York City is an unbeatable place for times when you don't have a car. However, Detroit is lacking in good options for its public transit.

Visitors in New York City can get around quickly with the extensive public transit system. The city has one of the largest subway systems in the world. There's also an elaborate bus system, ferry system, and yellow taxis all around town.

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

Is Detroit or New York City a more walkable city?

New York City is an unbeatable place for its high level of walkability. Also, Detroit is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its ease of walking around.

It's very easy to get around on foot in New York City. The majority of the neighborhoods in Manhattan are very walkable and easy to explore on foot. Most people prefer not to drive here as it can be overwhelming and chaotic.

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

For even more information, also check out Is Detroit Worth Visiting? and Is New York City Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in New York City or Detroit?

How long in Detroit or New York City?

Both Detroit and New York City have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in New York City than in Detroit. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Detroit, and 3-7 days is enough time in New York City.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in New York City 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 New York City.

One day in Detroit or New York City?

Many travelers enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the hardworking destination of Detroit. Don't miss the live music, as that's what most people do. Your budget might influence how long you stay. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then one day is just the right amount of time to spend here.

Because New York City is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. This city 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 New York City?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Detroit. Don't miss the live music, as that's what most people do. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. A weekend is usually enough time to experience most activities.

Because New York City is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

Five days in Detroit or New York City?

Travelers enjoy the live music and food when visiting the overlooked destination of Detroit. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Five days is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips.

New York City is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that New York City has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

A week in Detroit or New York City?

You'll find food and shopping around the city of Detroit. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in New York City. Because New York City is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one week here.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 3-Week Tours in United States of America, The Best Bicycle Tours in United States of America, Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in United States of America, and The Best Coach Bus Tours in United States of America.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Detroit or New York City?

New York City has a larger population, and is about 8 times larger than the population of Detroit. When comparing the sizes of Detroit and New York City, 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 New York City?

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 New York City in the Summer?

Both New York City and Detroit are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Detroit for the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to New York City in the summer for the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Detroit is generally around the same temperature as New York City. Daily temperatures in Detroit average around 74°F (24°C), and New York City fluctuates around 77°F (25°C).

It rains a lot this time of the year in New York City. In July, Detroit usually receives less rain than New York City. Detroit gets 3.4 inches (85 mm) of rain, while New York City receives 4.5 inches (114 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Detroit or New York City in the Autumn?

Both New York City and Detroit during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Detroit in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the music scene. Furthermore, most visitors come to New York City for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

Detroit is cooler than New York City in the autumn. The daily temperature in Detroit averages around 54°F (12°C) in October, and New York City fluctuates around 57°F (14°C).

Detroit usually gets less rain in October than New York City. Detroit gets 2.3 inches (58 mm) of rain, while New York City receives 3.1 inches (78 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Detroit or New York City in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Detroit and New York City. Most visitors come to Detroit for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Furthermore, the winter months attract visitors to New York City because of the museums, the Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine.

The weather in New York City can be very cold. Detroit can be very cold during winter. In the winter, Detroit is much colder than New York City. Typically, the winter temperatures in Detroit in January average around 25°F (-4°C), and New York City averages at about 31°F (-1°C).

In January, Detroit usually receives less rain than New York City. Detroit gets 2 inches (50 mm) of rain, while New York City receives 3.4 inches (86 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Detroit or New York City in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Detroit as well as New York City. The spring months attract visitors to Detroit because of the activities around the city. Additionally, the activities around the city and the natural beauty are the main draw to New York City this time of year.

In April, Detroit is generally cooler than New York City. Daily temperatures in Detroit average around 49°F (9°C), and New York City fluctuates around 52°F (11°C).

Detroit usually gets less rain in April than New York City. Detroit gets 3.2 inches (80 mm) of rain, while New York City receives 3.8 inches (98 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for New York City and Detroit