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

Should you visit Houston or Hilo?

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 Hilo. 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 diverse, sprawling, and southern city. Visitors will also find so much to do here because it's a large city with many sights and attractions. It's also popular because of the food, shopping, and museums.

Hilo

Hilo is a mellow, friendly, and authentic town. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the hiking, museums, and food.

Houston and Hilo: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Houston or Hilo?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Houston. Although Houston and Hilo are both popular with visitors, Houston has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Houston is more popular for its museums, nightlife, music, shopping, and big city activities, while Hilo is known for its food, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, and impressive beauty. Hilo is more touristy than Houston and is popular for its nearby rainforests, waterfalls, and green gardens. Houston is popular for its sprawling size, its local Texas restaurants, and being the home to NASA. It is also home to The Space Center Houston.

How is Houston different from Hilo?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Houston is a great city for its historical sights. Also, Hilo is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its sights and museums.

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.

Hilo is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. Top museums in and around town include the Lyman Museum, the Pacific Tsunami Museum, Imiloa Astronomy Center, and Mokupapapa Discovery Center.

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

Hilo 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 Hilo. This is the largest city on the island and you'll find a restaurant scene that caters to both locals and tourists. There are a number of local dishes that you can try such as Pla Rad Prik (a Thai fish dish), mushroom pot pie, and crab and avocado melt.

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 Hilo Better for Nightlife?

Houston is a great city for its evening party scene. However, Hilo is not known for nightlife.

The nightlife in Houston has something for everybody. 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.

Most people don't head to Hilo specifically for the nightlife scene, but you can find a few options. It's a town that goes to bed early, but there are some local bars that have a chill and relaxing atmosphere.

Is Houston or Hilo Better for Music?

Houston is a popular place for its music scene. However, Hilo is not a live music destination.

The music scene in Houston is active and vibrant. Popular music venues include Fitzgerald's, Walter's Downtown, and The Continental Club.

Hilo is not a live music destination.

Is Houston or Hilo Better for Resorts?

Hilo is a town with a few options for its resorts. However, Houston is not a resort destination.

Not known for its high-end resorts, Hilo offers a few options. You'll find more hotels than resorts in town.

Houston is not a resort destination.

Is Houston or Hilo Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Hilo is a town with a few options for its diving and snorkeling. However, Houston is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Hilo has a few snorkeling spots. Richardsons Ocean Park is the best snorkeling spot nearby but, in general, the water near town has poor visibility because of the frequent rain.

Houston is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Houston or Hilo Better for Beaches?

Hilo is a good destination for the beache. However, Houston is not a beach destination.

Hilo offers a nice beach destination. The town isn't really known for its beaches but there are some decent options if you want to stay nearby and hit the coastline. Beaches in the area include Coconut Island, Reeds Bay Beach Park, and Onekahakaha Beach Park.

Houston is not a beach destination.

Is Houston or Hilo Better for Hiking?

Hilo is a world-class destination for its hiking experiences. However, Houston is not a hiking destination.

Hilo is well-known for its hiking and trekking. You'll find incredible hikes in the area to many impressive waterfalls. There are also coastal trails and hikes to spectacular viewpoints.

Houston is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Houston or Hilo?

Houston is a popular place for its shopping areas. However, Hilo is not known for shopping.

Houston has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. 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.

Hilo is a good destination for shopping. You can pick up anything you need in town, just head to Hilo Shopping Center.

Is Houston or Hilo Better for Families?

Both Houston and Hilo are superb family-friendly destinations.

Houston is a very kid-friendly city. 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.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Hilo. The town has an authentic and unpretentious vibe that is fun for families. There are low key beaches, farmer's markets, local museums, and nearby hiking. If you want to stay away from the larger resorts and see a more local side to Hawaii, then this is a great option.

Is Houston or Hilo Better for Couples?

Hilo is well known for its romantic activities. Also, Houston is still popular, but not quite as popular for couples.

Couples visit Hilo frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. Couples will enjoy visiting Liliuokalani Gardens, taking sunset cruises, and sampling the local cuisine. The town also makes a good base for hiking and exploring the beaches on the island.

Houston is a good city for couples to visit. There's a surprising diversity of restaurants around the city. There are also performing arts productions and many outdoor parks and gardens.

Is Houston or Hilo Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Hilo is well known for backpackers. However, Houston is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

Hilo is a great town to visit for backpackers. The town has several local hostels that many backpackers prefer for their authentic and mellow atmospheres.

Houston is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

Is Houston or Hilo Better for Students?

Houston is a popular place for its student-friendly activities. However, Hilo is not popular with students.

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

Hilo is not popular with students.

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

You'll find somewhat comparable public transit options in both Houston and Hilo.

Public transit is generally 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.

Public transit is mostly limited in Hilo. The Hele-On is a bus service that connects Hilo to Kona with north and south routes.

Is Houston or Hilo a more walkable city?

Hilo is a good destination for its high level of walkability. However, Houston is not particularly known for its ease of walking around.

Hilo is a somewhat walkable place. The downtown is a nice place to take a stroll, but if you want to get out of town, and you really should, then you'll need a car.

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 Hilo Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Hilo or Houston?

How long in Houston or Hilo?

Both Houston and Hilo have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Hilo than in Houston. Usually, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Houston, and 3-7 days is enough time in Hilo.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Hilo 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 Hilo.

One day in Houston or Hilo?

Houston is a big city destination where you can fill many days. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

In Hilo, you'll find food and museums. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. One reason most visitors come is for the hiking. 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 Houston or Hilo?

Houston is a fun place to experience. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. A weekend is often enough time to do most activities. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

In Hilo, you'll find museums and food. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One reason most visitors come is for the hiking. 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 Hilo?

You'll find food and shopping around the sprawling big city of Houston. This city offers something for everyone. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Hilo is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Hilo has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

A week in Houston or Hilo?

The one-of-a-kind city of Houston offers shopping and museums. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. One week 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Hilo. In Hilo, you'll find museums and food. One reason most visitors come is for the hiking. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one week here.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Los Angeles, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from New York City, The Best 2-Week Tours from New York City, and The Best 2-Week Tours from Anchorage.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Houston or Hilo?

Houston has a larger population, and is about 50 times larger than the population of Hilo. When comparing the sizes of Houston and Hilo, 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 Hilo?

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 Houston or Hilo in the Summer?

Both Hilo and Houston during the summer are popular places to visit. The city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Houston this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Hilo for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Houston is a little warmer than Hilo. Typically, the summer temperatures in Houston in July average around 84°F (29°C), and Hilo averages at about 76°F (24°C).

Hilo gets a good bit of rain this time of year. It rains a lot this time of the year in Houston. Houston usually gets less rain in July than Hilo. Houston gets 4.8 inches (122 mm) of rain, while Hilo receives 9.7 inches (247 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Houston or Hilo in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Houston and Hilo. Many travelers come to Houston for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the music scene. Furthermore, many visitors come to Hilo in the autumn for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Houston is generally cooler than Hilo. Daily temperatures in Houston average around 71°F (22°C), and Hilo fluctuates around 76°F (24°C).

Hilo receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Houston gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In October, Houston usually receives less rain than Hilo. Houston gets 4.2 inches (107 mm) of rain, while Hilo receives 9.8 inches (248 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Houston or Hilo in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Houston as well as Hilo. Many visitors come to Houston in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Additionally, most visitors come to Hilo for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Houston is much colder than Hilo in the winter. The daily temperature in Houston averages around 52°F (11°C) in January, and Hilo fluctuates around 72°F (22°C).

It's quite rainy in Hilo. Houston usually gets less rain in January than Hilo. Houston gets 3.6 inches (91 mm) of rain, while Hilo receives 8.7 inches (221 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Houston or Hilo in the Spring?

Both Hilo and Houston are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Houston for the activities around the city during these months. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Hilo because of the beaches and the natural beauty.

In the spring, Houston is around the same temperature as Hilo. Typically, the spring temperatures in Houston in April average around 70°F (21°C), and Hilo averages at about 73°F (23°C).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Hilo. In April, Houston usually receives less rain than Hilo. Houston gets 3.1 inches (78 mm) of rain, while Hilo receives 15.6 inches (395 mm) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Hilo and Houston