A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Hilton Head Island vs. Minneapolis for Families, Food, and Couples

Should you visit Hilton Head Island or Minneapolis?

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

Which city is more affordable and which is best for your travel style? If you're trying to figure out where to go next, comparing the travel costs between Hilton Head Island and Minneapolis can help you decide which place is right for you.

Hilton Head Island

Hilton Head Island is a beautiful, resort-filled, and family-friendly coastal town. Hilton Head Island is a beautiful place to visit, too. Visitors also love the beaches, shopping, and food. See Hilton Head Island travel costs.

Minneapolis

Minneapolis is a diverse, dynamic, and innovative city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. It's also popular because of the food, shopping, and museums. See Minneapolis travel costs.

Hilton Head Island and Minneapolis: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Nice resorts
  • Popular beach
  • Known for its beauty
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less popular for shopping
  • Public transit not as usable
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for students
  • Good public transit


Is there more to do in Hilton Head Island or Minneapolis?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Minneapolis. Although Hilton Head Island and Minneapolis are both popular with visitors, Minneapolis has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Minneapolis is more popular for its museums and attractions, nightlife, shopping, and big city activities, while Hilton Head Island is known for its resorts, beaches, and impressive beauty. Hilton Head Island is more touristy than Minneapolis and is known for its long sandy beaches, many golf courses, popular tennis camps, and accessible bike trails. Minneapolis is popular for its professional sports teams, countless outdoor activities, and friendly people. It is also home to Mall of America.

How is Hilton Head Island different from Minneapolis?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Hilton Head Island or Minneapolis?

Hilton Head Island
Minneapolis

Minneapolis is a very popular place for its museums and history. However, Hilton Head Island does not have museums and landmarks.

Many visitors head to Minneapolis specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. There's a wide variety of museums that include art, history, science, and local culture. Some of the favorite museums in the city are the Minneapolis Institute of Art, the Walker Art Center, the American Swedish Institute, and the Weisman Art Museum.

Hilton Head Island does not have museums and landmarks.


Is the Food Better in Hilton Head Island or Minneapolis? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Hilton Head Island
Minneapolis

Local dishes at restaurants are fun to try in both Hilton Head Island and Minneapolis.

Hilton Head Island has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. The island has many famous restaurants but reservations during the summer are a must. Restaurants can get very crowded during peak times. For some of the best restaurants head to Shelter Cove or Harbour Town. Popular local dishes include fried seafood and oysters.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Minneapolis makes for a great culinary experience. Dishes in the Midwest are known for being hearty comfort foods, and the food in Minneapolis is no exception. You'll find cheese-stuffed burgers that are known as Juicy Lucys, Tator Tot casseroles, and deep-fried cheese curds. For international food, there's a variety of Scandinavian options around town.

Is Hilton Head Island or Minneapolis Better for Nightlife?

Hilton Head Island
Minneapolis

Minneapolis is a very popular place for its evening party scene. However, Hilton Head Island is lacking in good options for nightlife.

Minneapolis has a large number of nightlife venues. There are diverse neighborhoods that each have their own personality. You'll find rooftop lounges in Uptown, international venues in Whittier, and trendy bars in the North Loop. But at the heart of the city's nightlife scene is Downtown Minneapolis.

Things get quiet in the evenings in Hilton Head Island. There are a few sports bars and comedy clubs, but nightlife isn't really a thing in Hilton Head. This is very much a family destination that shuts down with the sunset.

Is Hilton Head Island or Minneapolis Better for Resorts?

Hilton Head Island
Minneapolis

Hilton Head Island is a very popular place for its luxury resorts. However, Minneapolis is not a resort destination.

Hilton Head Island is a popular resort destination that attracts visitors from everywhere. Most of the accommodation in the area is in the form of weekly condo rentals, which usually include a pool and outdoor space. Tennis and golf are also popular on the island so many resorts have facilities for each.

Minneapolis is not a resort destination.


Is Hilton Head Island or Minneapolis Better for Beaches?

Hilton Head Island
Minneapolis

Hilton Head Island is a very popular place for the beach. However, Minneapolis is not a beach destination.

You'll have a great beach vacation in Hilton Head Island. The island has nice beaches that are popular with families. They are great for swimming during the spring, summer, and fall seasons. While some beaches may get a bit crowded during peak holidays, they're usually pretty relaxed and less crowded than many nearby beaches.

Minneapolis is not a beach destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Hilton Head Island or Minneapolis?

Hilton Head Island
Minneapolis

Minneapolis is terrific for its shopping areas. Also, Hilton Head Island is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for shopping.

Many people travel to Minneapolis specifically to go shopping. Known for the megamall, Mall of America, this is a shopper's paradise. Mall of America is the largest shopping mall in the country and it even has an aquarium and a theme park within it. In addition to this iconic shopping mall, Minneapolis also has many shopping districts including the Minnehaha Mile.

Hilton Head Island is a great destination for shopping. The area has upscale shopping with designer names and local venues. Popular shopping areas include Shelter Cove Town Center and Harbor Town.

Is Hilton Head Island or Minneapolis More Beautiful?

Hilton Head Island
Minneapolis

Hilton Head Island is a nice place to visit for its scenery and beauty. However, Minneapolis is not a destination known for its beauty.

Hilton Head Island is a beautiful place to visit, too. The island has many beautiful waterways that are best explored by boat or kayak. The beaches are also beautiful and striking.

Minneapolis is not a destination known for its beauty.


Is Hilton Head Island or Minneapolis Better for Families?

Hilton Head Island
Minneapolis

Hilton Head Island is a world-class destination for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Minneapolis is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

Hilton Head Island is an amazing family-friendly coastal town to visit. This area is a popular family-friendly beach destination with a number of summer events for the whole family, peaceful beaches, and family-friendly restaurants throughout. Older kids will enjoy cycling around the island's many bike trails or attending a popular tennis camp.

Minneapolis is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. Mall of America is at the top of the list for most families, but there's also plenty of kid-friendly museums around town as well as nature centers, parks, and playgrounds. There's the Como Park Zoo and Conservatory, the Minnesota Zoo, and Afton Apple Orchard. For museums, kids will love the Minnesota Children's Museum or the Science Museum of Minnesota.

Is Hilton Head Island or Minneapolis Better for Couples?

Hilton Head Island
Minneapolis

Both Hilton Head Island and Minneapolis are good destinations to visit as a couple.

Hilton Head Island is a good coastal town for couples to visit. While the area is most popular with families, it is a fun place to explore as a couple because of the many high end restaurants and the beautiful setting. Couples can rent bikes to explore or play a friendly game of tennis.

Minneapolis is a nice destination for couples. There are beautiful parks and outdoor spaces to explore as well as museums and fine dining. Couples will appreciate stopping by the Stone Arch Bridge or wandering through the Lyndale Park Rose Garden.

Is Hilton Head Island or Minneapolis Better for Students?

Hilton Head Island
Minneapolis

Minneapolis is a very popular place for its student-friendly activities. However, Hilton Head Island is not popular with students.

Minneapolis is very popular with students. There are a number of colleges and universities in the area including the University of Minnesota. The city is known for its academic and intellectual focus, and students will enjoy being challenged educationally while enjoying a dynamic city.

Hilton Head Island is not popular with students.


Is Hilton Head Island or Minneapolis Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Hilton Head Island
Minneapolis

Minneapolis is very good for times when you don't have a car. However, Hilton Head Island is lacking in good options for its public transit.

Minneapolis has some public transit options. There are buses, light rail, and commuter trains that stop at many of the major entertainment centers around town.

Public transit is limited or non-existant in Hilton Head Island. You must have a car to get most places on the island, unless you bike. Rush hour during summer months can have intense traffic.

Is Hilton Head Island or Minneapolis a more walkable city?

Hilton Head Island
Minneapolis

Minneapolis is very good for its ease of walking around. However, Hilton Head Island is lacking in good options for its walkability.

Minneapolis is a somewhat walkable city. There are neighborhoods that are dense enough to be walkable, but the city is still very car-focused.

Hilton Head Island is generally not very walkable. You really need a car to get around, but for those who are motivated, there is a great network of bike trails. It's mostly used for recreational purposes though.

For even more information, also check out Is Hilton Head Island Worth Visiting? and Is Minneapolis Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Minneapolis or Hilton Head Island?

How long in Hilton Head Island or Minneapolis?

It's fun to spend time in either Hilton Head Island or Minneapolis. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Hilton Head Island due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 5-7 days is a good amount of time for Hilton Head Island, and 2-4 days is enough time in Minneapolis.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Minneapolis than Hilton Head Island 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 Minneapolis.


  • How many days in Hilton Head Island or Minneapolis? Ideal Length of Stay
    Hilton Head Island 5-7 
    Minneapolis 2-4

One day in Hilton Head Island or Minneapolis?

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the beautiful coastal town of Hilton Head Island. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Visitors enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the innovative destination of Minneapolis. This city offers something for everyone. Most people visit for the shopping. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.


A weekend in Hilton Head Island or Minneapolis?

Visitors enjoy the shopping and food when visiting the beautiful destination of Hilton Head Island. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. This coastal town offers something for everyone. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

Minneapolis is a popular place to visit. Visitors enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the diverse city of Minneapolis. Most people visit for the shopping. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Minneapolis has to offer.

Five days in Hilton Head Island or Minneapolis?

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the relaxing coastal town of Hilton Head Island. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. Many people spend five days here.If you enjoy all that's offered here, then five days is just the right amount of time to spend here. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

Many people enjoy the food and shopping when visiting Minneapolis. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Most people visit for the shopping. 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.

A week in Hilton Head Island or Minneapolis?

Visitors enjoy the shopping and food when visiting the destination of Hilton Head Island. Anyone can find something fun to do here. This is a popular place to visit for one week. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. In one week, you should have a good grasp of this coastal town.

Minneapolis is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. It offers something for everyone. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in United States of America, The Best Polar Tours & Cruises in United States of America, The Best Walking Tours in United States of America, and The Best Northern Lights Tours in Alaska.


Which place is cheaper, Minneapolis or Hilton Head Island?

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

  • Hilton Head Island Prices
    USA Prices
    Minneapolis Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Hilton Head Island $287
    Minneapolis $235

The average daily cost (per person) in Hilton Head Island is $287, while the average daily cost in Minneapolis is $235. 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 Hilton Head Island and Minneapolis in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Hilton Head Island $129
    Minneapolis $110
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Hilton Head Island $258
    Minneapolis $220
Compare Hotels in Hilton Head Island and Minneapolis

Looking for a hotel in Hilton Head Island or Minneapolis? 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 Hilton Head Island


Hotels in Minneapolis


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: Hilton Head Island Hotel Prices and Minneapolis Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Hilton Head Island $34
    Minneapolis $43

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Minneapolis

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

  • Rochester: One-Way Shared Transfer to or from MSP: $49

Is it cheaper to fly into Hilton Head Island or Minneapolis?

Prices for flights to both Minneapolis and Hilton Head Island 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
    Hilton Head Island $105
    Minneapolis $70

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Hilton Head Island

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

  • Hilton Head Sunset Dinner Cruise: $106
  • Sunset Dinner Cruise: $106
  • Hibachi Dinner Cruise: $117
  • Lowcountry Boil Dinner Cruise: $118
  • Sunset Hibachi Dinner Cruise : $128
  • Lowcountry Boil Dinner Cruise on Hilton Head: $148

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Minneapolis

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

  • Sushi Cooking Class at a Local Brewery: $75
  • Secret Food Tour: $96

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Hilton Head Island $23
    Minneapolis $27

Tours and Activities in Hilton Head Island

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

  • #1 Historical Horse Drawn Carriage Tour: $38
  • 1 Hour Private Dolphin and Nature Tour: $300
  • 2 Hour Kayak Hilton Head Dolphin and Nature Tour: $49
  • 2-Hour Hilton Head Guided Kayak Nature Tour: $47
  • 2-Hour Private Hilton Head Dolphin Watching Cruise: $269
  • 90 Minute Hilton Head Dolphin Tour: $48
  • 90 Minute Hilton Head Dolphin and Nature Cruise: $47
  • 90 minute Hilton Head Sunset Dolphin Cruise: $55
  • 90-Minute Dolphin and Nature Tour of Hilton Head: $47
  • 90-Minute Private Dolphin Tour in Hilton Head Island : $269
  • Beaufort City Minibus Tour: $37
  • Beaufort Gullah Heritage Tour: $52

Tours and Activities in Minneapolis

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

  • Mall of America: Crayola Experience Flexible Date Ticket: $31
  • Minneapolis & St. Paul: Private Highlights Riding Tour: $550
  • Mall of America 1-Hour Escape Room Adventure: $47
  • Minnesota Timberwolves Basketball Game Ticket: $33
  • Mississippi River Cruise with Narration: $28
  • Past and Present Walking Tour: $60
  • Ultimate Minneapolis Walking Tour & Weatherproof Skyway Loop: $79

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Hilton Head Island $26
    Minneapolis $24

Sample the Local Flavors in Hilton Head Island

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Hilton Head Island:

  • Hilton Head's ONLY Distillery Experience: $55

Sample the Local Flavors in Minneapolis

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

  • Minneapolis Historical Bar Crawl: Hidden Bars & Stories: $79
  • Highest Rated 3-Hour Craft Brewery Tour in Minneapolis: $100


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

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


Which is Bigger, Hilton Head Island or Minneapolis?

Minneapolis has a larger population, and is about 10 times larger than the population of Hilton Head Island. When comparing the sizes of Hilton Head Island and Minneapolis, 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 Hilton Head Island or Minneapolis?

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 Hilton Head Island or Minneapolis in the Summer?

Both Minneapolis and Hilton Head Island are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The beaches and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Hilton Head Island this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Minneapolis for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Hilton Head Island is generally a little warmer than Minneapolis. Daily temperatures in Hilton Head Island average around 82°F (28°C), and Minneapolis fluctuates around 76°F (25°C).

It's quite sunny in Minneapolis. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Hilton Head Island. Hilton Head Island usually receives less sunshine than Minneapolis during summer. Hilton Head Island gets 267 hours of sunny skies, while Minneapolis receives 357 hours of full sun in the summer.

It's quite rainy in Hilton Head Island. In July, Hilton Head Island usually receives more rain than Minneapolis. Hilton Head Island gets 7.9 inches (200 mm) of rain, while Minneapolis receives 3.4 inches (86 mm) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Hilton Head Island 82°F (28°C) 
    Minneapolis 76°F (25°C)

Should I visit Hilton Head Island or Minneapolis in the Autumn?

Both Minneapolis and Hilton Head Island during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Hilton Head Island for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area. Also, many visitors come to Minneapolis in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene.

Hilton Head Island is much warmer than Minneapolis in the autumn. The daily temperature in Hilton Head Island averages around 68°F (20°C) in October, and Minneapolis fluctuates around 52°F (11°C).

It's quite sunny in Hilton Head Island. In the autumn, Hilton Head Island often gets more sunshine than Minneapolis. Hilton Head Island gets 223 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Minneapolis receives 178 hours of full sun.

Hilton Head Island usually gets more rain in October than Minneapolis. Hilton Head Island gets 2.8 inches (71 mm) of rain, while Minneapolis receives 1.8 inches (45 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Hilton Head Island 68°F (20°C) 
    Minneapolis 52°F (11°C)

Should I visit Hilton Head Island or Minneapolis in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Hilton Head Island and Minneapolis. Many visitors come to Hilton Head Island in the winter for the shopping scene and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Minneapolis for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Minneapolis can be very cold during winter. In the winter, Hilton Head Island is much warmer than Minneapolis. Typically, the winter temperatures in Hilton Head Island in January average around 48°F (9°C), and Minneapolis averages at about 15°F (-10°C).

Hilton Head Island usually receives more sunshine than Minneapolis during winter. Hilton Head Island gets 176 hours of sunny skies, while Minneapolis receives 157 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Hilton Head Island usually receives more rain than Minneapolis. Hilton Head Island gets 2.9 inches (74 mm) of rain, while Minneapolis receives 0.9 inches (22 mm) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Hilton Head Island 48°F (9°C) 
    Minneapolis 15°F (-10°C)

Should I visit Hilton Head Island or Minneapolis in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Hilton Head Island as well as Minneapolis. Most visitors come to Hilton Head Island for the beaches and the natural beauty during these months. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Minneapolis because of the activities around the city.

In April, Hilton Head Island is generally much warmer than Minneapolis. Daily temperatures in Hilton Head Island average around 67°F (19°C), and Minneapolis fluctuates around 49°F (10°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Minneapolis. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Hilton Head Island this time of the year. In the spring, Hilton Head Island often gets more sunshine than Minneapolis. Hilton Head Island gets 275 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Minneapolis receives 244 hours of full sun.

Hilton Head Island usually gets more rain in April than Minneapolis. Hilton Head Island gets 2.9 inches (74 mm) of rain, while Minneapolis receives 2.1 inches (53 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Hilton Head Island 67°F (19°C) 
    Minneapolis 49°F (10°C)

Typical Weather for Minneapolis and Hilton Head Island

Hilton Head Island Minneapolis
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 48°F (9°C) 2.9 inches (74 mm) 15°F (-10°C) 0.9 inches (22 mm)
Feb 52°F (11°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm) 21°F (-6°C) 0.7 inches (19 mm)
Mar 58°F (15°C) 4.4 inches (112 mm) 34°F (1°C) 1.7 inches (43 mm)
Apr 67°F (19°C) 2.9 inches (74 mm) 49°F (10°C) 2.1 inches (53 mm)
May 73°F (23°C) 4.2 inches (107 mm) 62°F (16°C) 2.9 inches (74 mm)
Jun 80°F (26°C) 5.9 inches (150 mm) 71°F (22°C) 3.2 inches (82 mm)
Jul 82°F (28°C) 7.9 inches (200 mm) 76°F (25°C) 3.4 inches (86 mm)
Aug 81°F (27°C) 6.5 inches (164 mm) 73°F (23°C) 2.8 inches (71 mm)
Sep 77°F (25°C) 5.6 inches (141 mm) 64°F (18°C) 2.2 inches (57 mm)
Oct 68°F (20°C) 2.8 inches (71 mm) 52°F (11°C) 1.8 inches (45 mm)
Nov 59°F (15°C) 1.9 inches (49 mm) 36°F (2°C) 1.3 inches (33 mm)
Dec 52°F (11°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm) 21°F (-6°C) 0.9 inches (22 mm)