A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Houston vs. Boston for Attractions, Families, Food, and Nightlife

Should you visit Houston or Boston?

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 Houston and Boston. 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.

Houston

Houston is a sprawling, southern, and one-of-a-kind city. It's an amazing and huge city with tons of activities and things to do. It's also known for live music, food, and shopping.

Boston

Boston is a traditional, classic, and proud city. Travelers will also find plenty of sights and attractions here, as it's a big city that attracts lots of visitors. It's a beautiful place to visit, too. This destination also has one of those special and quaint feelings. And you can't forget about the museums, theater, and nightlife.

Houston and Boston: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Houston or Boston?

Visitors will generally find more to do in Boston than Houston. While Houston is larger than Boston, Boston has more sights, attractions, and activities for tourists. Boston is very popular for its museums, theatre productions, food, beaches, historical sights, christmas markets, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere, while Houston attracts visitors for its big city activities. Boston is more touristy than Houston and is known for its enthusiastic sports fans, influential history, beautiful parks, and world-class universities. It is also well known for The Freedom Trail. Houston is famous for its sprawling size, its local Texas restaurants, and being the home to NASA.

How is Houston different from Boston?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Houston or Boston?

Boston is a world-class destination for its museums and landmarks. Also, Houston is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historical sights.

The museums, monuments, and landmarks in Boston are among the most recognizable in the world. The city itself feels like a living museum. It is famous for Faneuil Hall, the Museum of Fine Arts, the Isabelle Stewart Gardner Museum, the USS Constitution, as well as the many sites along the Freedom Trail. There are also many museums on the campuses of the world renowned universities in the city.

Houston offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. Head to Houston's Museum District to explore 19 different museums in a walkable area. A highlight of a trip to the city is a visit to the Space Center, but other popular museums include the Houston Museum of Natural Science, the Museum of Fine Arts, and the Houston Children's Museum.

Is Houston or Boston Better for Theater?

Boston is well known for its theatre productions. However, Houston is not a theatre destination.

Boston offers many theater and performance venues for visitors. The city has many historic, beautifully restored theaters where you can enjoy a show. Head to the theater district for some of the most famous venues.

Houston is not a theatre destination.

Is the Food Better in Houston or Boston? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

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

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Boston. There are many local dishes that utilize fresh caught seafood and comfort food flavors. The cuisine also takes advantage of the city's Italian and Irish populations. Famous local foods include New England Clam Chowder, lobster rolls, and baked beans. You'll find hearty sandwiches and filling meals that warm your soul.

Houston is becoming an appealing option for foodies. The city is famous for its Texas barbecue, Mexican food, and a wide diversity of other different ethnic foods. It's a surprisingly diverse city and this is reflected in the restaurant selection around town.

Is Houston or Boston Better for Nightlife?

Party-goers will find similar levels of energy in Houston and Boston.

Houston is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. The nightlife is at its best on weekends when bars, dance clubs, and concert halls come to life. There are a diversity of venues around town including dance clubs, Honky Tonks, and cocktail bars. Some of the most active nightlife areas are Downtown, Midtown, Montrose, Washington Avenue, and Rice Village.

Many people head to Boston for the nightlife scene. The city is known for its breweries, craft beer, and vibrant university neighborhoods. It also hosts regular outdoor movies and world class sporting events. The nightlife scene is varied, with some areas catering to the student population and other areas focused on the professional or sport-loving crowds.

Is Houston or Boston Better for Music?

Live music enthusiatsts will find something to enjoy in either Houston or Boston.

You don't have to look far to find a unique music venue in Houston. Popular music venues include Fitzgerald's, Walter's Downtown, and The Continental Club.

The music scene in Boston is active and vibrant. Popular music venues include Lizard Lounge, Blue Hills Bank Pavilion, and The Middle East.

Is Houston or Boston Better for Beaches?

Boston is a city with a few options for the beache. However, Houston is not a beach destination.

You can check out the beach in Boston. There are a few urban beaches in the greater Boston area that you can explore on a nice day.

Houston is not a beach destination.

Is Houston or Boston Better for its Old Town?

Boston is a world-class destination for its old town. However, Houston does not have a historic old town.

The historic old town of Boston is revered around the world. Boston is famous for its Freedom Trail, which takes visitors around the city's rich history. The oldest parts of the city are known as Boston Proper and include the neighborhoods of Beacon Hill, Historic Downtown, the North End, and the West End.

Houston does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Houston or Boston?

Shopping is a popular activity in both Boston and Houston.

Houston offers some nice shopping areas. There are a number of upscale malls and shopping centers that have brand names, chain stores, and the occasional local shop where you can pick up items.

Boston has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. Head to Back Bay for some of the best high end shops. There are luxury brands and boutique venues that sell local art or crafts.

Is Houston or Boston Better for Christmas?

Boston is well known for its Christmas activities. However, Houston does not offer Christmas activities.

Visitors come from all around to experience the Christmas activities in Boston. Christmas comes to life in the city with its Christmas Trees, holiday shows, and festivals.

Houston does not offer Christmas activities.

Is Houston or Boston Better for Christmas Markets?

Boston is well known for its Christmas markets. However, Houston does not offer Christmas markets.

Boston offers plenty of Christmas markets. There are a number of European style Christmas markets that pop up during the holiday season around town.

Houston does not offer Christmas markets.

Is Houston or Boston Better for Families?

Boston is a world-class destination for its family-friendly activities. Also, Houston is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

With a huge array of activities for kids, Boston is very family-friendly. It's filled with history, but there are also many activities for kids who need a break from all of the historical stuff. Popular activities for all ages include the Museum of Science, the New England Aquarium, and exploring the waterfront, gardens, and parks around town.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Houston. It is a large city with plenty of things that kids can enjoy including museums, theaters, a zoo, and even the Space Center. The Children's Museum of Houston is perfect for a rainy day. For science loving kids there's the Health Museum and the Museum of Natural Science. Houston also has a Six Flags nearby which the whole family can enjoy.

Is Houston or Boston Better for Couples?

Houston and Boston both nice destinations for a couple.

Houston makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. There's a surprising diversity of restaurants around the city. There are also performing arts productions and many outdoor parks and gardens.

Boston is a good city for couples to visit. Couples who enjoy history will enjoy exploring the city. Take a swan boat ride in the Public Garden and wander the unique route along the Freedom Trail. There are also many sporting and entertainment options around town.

Is Houston or Boston Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Boston is a good destination for backpackers. However, Houston is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

Plenty of backpackers visit Boston. Like most larger American cities, the city has a handful of hostels to choose from.

Houston is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

Is Houston or Boston Better for Students?

Boston is a world-class destination for students. Also, Houston is still popular, but not quite as popular for its student-friendly activities.

Boston is a very popular place to visit for students. It is a city of students, with a number of world renowned universities located here including Harvard University, Boston College, and MIT. Many neighborhoods are filled with students and there are many student-centered activities around town including festivals and an active nightlife scene.

It's common for students to visit Houston. It's a large city with a number of universities and a large student population.

Is Houston or Boston Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Boston is a world-class destination for its public transit. However, Houston is not particularly known for times when you don't have a car.

With a huge network, the transit system in Boston can get you around easily. There's the T, which is the subway, as well as a trolley, bus, and water transportation system.

Public transit is mostly limited in Houston. The system includes buses and a limited light rail. Houston is known as a car-centric city and you really need a car to fully experience it.

Is Houston or Boston a more walkable city?

Boston is a world-class destination for its high level of walkability. However, Houston is not particularly known for its ease of walking around.

Getting around Boston on foot is easy. The many parks and compact neighborhoods are best explored on foot.

Houston is generally not a very walkable city. The most walkable neighborhood is the historic Houston Heights, but most parts of the city aren't very walkable.

For even more information, also check out Is Houston Worth Visiting? and Is Boston Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Boston or Houston?

How long in Houston or Boston?

In either Houston or Boston, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Boston than Houston because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Houston, and 3-5 days is enough time in Boston.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Boston than Houston 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 Boston.

One day in Houston or Boston?

Houston is a bustling city that offers something for everyone. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

In Boston, you'll find food and shopping. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. One reason most visitors come is for the museums. 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 Houston or Boston?

Houston is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

In Boston, you'll find shopping and museums. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Visiting the old town is also a must. One reason most visitors come is for the museums. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

Five days in Houston or Boston?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Houston. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Boston is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Boston has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

A week in Houston or Boston?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and live music when visiting the one-of-a-kind big city of Houston. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Boston. Many people enjoy the theater and nightlife when visiting Boston. One reason most visitors come is for the museums. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. 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 2-Week Tours from San Francisco, The Best 2-Week Tours from Los Angeles, The Best Family-Friendly Tours to United States of America, and The Best Wildlife Tours to United States of America.

When comparing the travel costs between Houston and Boston, we can see that Houston 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 Houston Expensive? and Is Boston Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Houston or Boston?

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

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 Houston or Boston in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Houston and Boston. The summer months attract visitors to Houston because of the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, the beaches, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Boston this time of year.

In July, Houston is generally a little warmer than Boston. Daily temperatures in Houston average around 84°F (29°C), and Boston fluctuates around 73°F (23°C).

Houston gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In July, Houston usually receives more rain than Boston. Houston gets 4.8 inches (122 mm) of rain, while Boston receives 2.9 inches (74 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Houston or Boston in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Houston as well as Boston. The city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the music scene are the main draw to Houston this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Boston for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

Houston is much warmer than Boston in the autumn. The daily temperature in Houston averages around 71°F (22°C) in October, and Boston fluctuates around 54°F (12°C).

Houston receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Houston usually gets more rain in October than Boston. Houston gets 4.2 inches (107 mm) of rain, while Boston receives 3.3 inches (84 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Houston or Boston in the Winter?

Both Boston and Houston are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Houston for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Boston in the winter for the museums, the Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine.

Boston can get quite cold in the winter. In the winter, Houston is much warmer than Boston. Typically, the winter temperatures in Houston in January average around 52°F (11°C), and Boston averages at about 29°F (-2°C).

In January, Houston usually receives around the same amount of rain as Boston. Houston gets 3.6 inches (91 mm) of rain, while Boston receives 3.4 inches (87 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Houston or Boston in the Spring?

Both Boston and Houston during the spring are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Houston in the spring for the activities around the city. Furthermore, most visitors come to Boston for the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty during these months.

In April, Houston is generally much warmer than Boston. Daily temperatures in Houston average around 70°F (21°C), and Boston fluctuates around 48°F (9°C).

Houston usually gets less rain in April than Boston. Houston gets 3.1 inches (78 mm) of rain, while Boston receives 3.5 inches (89 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Boston and Houston