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

Should you visit Houston or Minneapolis?

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 Minneapolis. 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 southern, one-of-a-kind, and diverse city. With plenty of activities and things to do, it's a huge city that draws plenty of visitors. Visitors also love the museums, nightlife, and live music.

Minneapolis

Minneapolis is a innovative, diverse, and dynamic city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Houston and Minneapolis: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Big city activities
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for shopping
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers


Is there more to do in Houston or Minneapolis?

You'll generally find more things to do in Houston than Minneapolis. Houston is bigger than Minneapolis, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Houston is better known for its music and big city activities, while Minneapolis is more popular for its shopping. Minneapolis is more touristy than Houston and is popular for its professional sports teams, countless outdoor activities, and friendly people. Houston is well known for its sprawling size, its local Texas restaurants, and being the home to NASA. Also, Houston is famous for The Space Center Houston.

How is Houston different from Minneapolis?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Houston
Minneapolis

Plenty of people visit the great sights and museums in both Houston and Minneapolis.

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around Houston. 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.

Minneapolis offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. 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.


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

Houston
Minneapolis

Foodies will find both Houston and Minneapolis both to be notable destinations.

Visitors will find a budding food and restaurant scene in Houston. 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.

Minneapolis is becoming an appealing option for foodies. 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 Houston or Minneapolis Better for Nightlife?

Houston
Minneapolis

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

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 Minneapolis for the nightlife scene. 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.

Is Houston or Minneapolis Better for Music?

Houston
Minneapolis

Houston is a nice place to visit for its live music scene. However, Minneapolis is not a live music destination.

The music scene helps keep Houston active and fun. Popular music venues include Fitzgerald's, Walter's Downtown, and The Continental Club.

Minneapolis is not a live music destination.


Is the Shopping Better in Houston or Minneapolis?

Houston
Minneapolis

Minneapolis is a world-class destination for its shopping opportunities. Also, Houston is still popular, but not quite as popular for its shopping areas.

The abundance of shops in Minneapolis make it a world-class shopping destination. 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.

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.

Is Houston or Minneapolis Better for Families?

Houston
Minneapolis

Both Houston and Minneapolis are great 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 Minneapolis. 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 Houston or Minneapolis Better for Couples?

Houston
Minneapolis

Houston and Minneapolis both notable 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.

Minneapolis is a good city for couples to visit. 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 Houston or Minneapolis Better for Students?

Houston
Minneapolis

Minneapolis is well known for students. Also, Houston is still popular, but not quite as popular for its student-friendly activities.

Many students visit Minneapolis. 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.

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 Minneapolis Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Houston
Minneapolis

Minneapolis is a good destination for its public transit. However, Houston is not particularly known for times when you don't have a car.

You'll find some public transit in Minneapolis, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There are buses, light rail, and commuter trains that stop at many of the major entertainment centers around town.

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 Minneapolis a more walkable city?

Houston
Minneapolis

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

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

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 Minneapolis Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Minneapolis or Houston?

How long in Houston or Minneapolis?

It's fun to spend time in either Houston or Minneapolis. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Minneapolis due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Houston, and 2-4 days is enough time in Minneapolis.

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

Couples should spend more time in Minneapolis than Houston. 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 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 Minneapolis.


  • How many days in Houston or Minneapolis? Ideal Length of Stay
    Houston 2-3 
    Minneapolis 2-4

One day in Houston or Minneapolis?

Houston is a southern city where you can fill many days. 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.

In Minneapolis, you'll find nightlife and food. One reason most visitors come is for the shopping. 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 Minneapolis?

Houston is a one-of-a-kind big city where you can fill many days. This city offers something for everyone. Plenty of people spend a weekend in the area when traveling. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

In Minneapolis, you'll find food and shopping. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. One reason most visitors come is 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 Houston or Minneapolis?

The sprawling city of Houston offers museums and nightlife. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

Minneapolis is a great place to explore. 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 Houston or Minneapolis?

Many people enjoy the nightlife and live music when visiting Houston. Anyone can find something fun to do here. 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 Minneapolis. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Minneapolis. One reason most visitors come is for the shopping. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.


Which place is cheaper, Minneapolis or Houston?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Houston is $262, while the average daily cost in Minneapolis is $206. 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 Houston and Minneapolis in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Houston $142
    Minneapolis $110
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Houston $284
    Minneapolis $220
Compare Hotels in Houston and Minneapolis

Looking for a hotel in Houston 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 Houston


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: Houston Hotel Prices and Minneapolis Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Houston $72
    Minneapolis $43

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Houston

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Houston:

  • William P.Hobby Airport (HOU): Transfer to Port of Galveston: $548
  • William P. Hobby Airport to Galveston Port Arrival Transfer: $170
  • Try find your better than us ! Airport transfer service in Houston APT-HTL (IAH): $151
  • Transfer in private vehicle from Houston George Bush Airport to Houston Downtown: $60
  • Transfer in private minivan from Houston George Bush Airport to Houston Downtown: $88
  • RoundTrip transfer in private minivan from-to HoustonAirport in Houston Downtown: $176
  • Round trip transfer in private car from-to Houston Airport in Houston Downtown: $120
  • Private One-way George Bush Airport Transfer To/From Houston: $71
  • Private Arrival Transfer from Houston George Bush Airport (IAH): $51
  • Private Arrival Transfer From Houston IAH airport : $100
  • Houston to Houston William P. Hobby Airport (HOU) - Departure Private Transfer: $82
  • Houston William P. Hobby Airport (HOU) to Houston - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $163

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Minneapolis

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

  • Minneapolis Airport (MSP) to Minneapolis - Arrival Private Transfer: $69
  • Minneapolis Airport (MSP) to Minneapolis - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $139
  • Private Arrival Transfer from Minneapolis Airport MSP: $88
  • Private Departure Transfer to Minneapolis Airport MSP: $88

Is it cheaper to fly into Houston or Minneapolis?

Prices for flights to both Minneapolis and Houston 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
    Houston $35
    Minneapolis $40

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Houston

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Houston.

  • Astroville Food Tour of Downtown Houston with Tunnel Access: $70
  • Astroville Food Tour of Downtown Houston with Tunnel Access: $70
  • The Heights Food Tour in Houston: $76
  • Houston Walking Food Tour With Secret Food Tours: $85
  • Houston Downtown: Secret Food Tours: $88
  • Howdy H-Town EADO Food Tour: $90
  • East Downtown Food Tour: $90
  • Houston Heights Culture and Food Tour: $95

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Minneapolis

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

  • Minneapolis Food Tour - Walking: $115

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Houston $14
    Minneapolis $27

Tours and Activities in Houston

Here are a few actual costs in Houston for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • Houston Ghosts and Hauntings By US Ghost Adventures: $30
  • 2 Hours H- Town Tour with 15ft Open Air Party Truck On Wheels: $46
  • Astroville Best of Houston City Driving Tour with Live Guide: $45
  • Astroville Best of Houston City Driving Tour with Live Guide: $45
  • Astroville Private Best of Houston City Driving Tour: $375
  • Astroville Tunnel Tour of Downtown Houston (Air-Conditioned): $32
  • Astroville Tunnel Tour of Downtown Houston (Air-Condtioned): $35
  • Austin & Self-Guided Driving Audio Tour: $17
  • Downtown In App Audio Walking Tour: $9.00
  • Enchanting Christmas Adventure in Magical Houston Holiday: $293
  • Enchanting A Romantic Urban Adventure: $468
  • Experience the season with a scavenger hunt in Houston with Holly Jolly Hunt: $20

Tours and Activities in Minneapolis

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

  • Minneapolis River Walk: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $7.99
  • Minneapolis River Walk: Self-Guided Audio Tour: $7.99
  • Minnehaha Falls: A Self-Guided Audio Tour of Minneapolis: $7.99
  • In the Footsteps of Prince: A Self-Guided Audio Tour of Downtown Minneapolis: $7.99
  • Mighty Mississippi: A Self-Guided Riverside Walking Tour: $7.99
  • In the Footsteps of Prince: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $7.99
  • Minnehaha Falls: A Self-Guided Audio Tour of Minneapolis: $7.99
  • Scavenger Hunt Adventure in Saint Paul by Operation City Quest: $10
  • Unique Scavenger Hunt Experience in Minneapolis by Wacky Walks: $10
  • St. Paul Historic Cave Tour: $15
  • Minnesota Twins Baseball Game Ticket at Target Field: $16
  • Lost Souls Tour: $20

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Houston $13
    Minneapolis $24

Sample the Local Flavors in Houston

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

  • Brewery Pass with Beer Tastings: $50
  • Private Houston Brewery Tour by Cart: $57
  • 2-Hour Downtown Brewery Tour by Electric Cart: $70
  • Downtown Houston Brewery Bike Tour : $71

Sample the Local Flavors in Minneapolis

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

  • History and 4-Bar Crawl Guided Walking Tour: $69
  • All-Inclusive Minneapolis Craft Brewery Tour: $85
  • 3-Hour Craft Brewery Tour: $100


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Houston and Minneapolis, we can see that Houston 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 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 Minneapolis.

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


Which is Bigger, Houston or Minneapolis?

Houston has a larger population, and is about 6 times larger than the population of Minneapolis. When comparing the sizes of Houston 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 Houston or Minneapolis?

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 Minneapolis in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Houston as well as Minneapolis. Many visitors come to Houston in the summer for the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences. Additionally, most visitors come to Minneapolis for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

Houston is a little warmer than Minneapolis in the summer. The daily temperature in Houston averages around 84°F (29°C) in July, and Minneapolis fluctuates around 76°F (25°C).

Houston receives a lot of rain in the summer. Houston usually gets more rain in July than Minneapolis. Houston gets 4.8 inches (122 mm) of rain, while Minneapolis receives 3.4 inches (86 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Houston 84°F (29°C) 
    Minneapolis 76°F (25°C)

Should I visit Houston or Minneapolis in the Autumn?

Both Minneapolis and Houston are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Houston for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the music scene during these months. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Minneapolis because of the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene.

In the autumn, Houston is much warmer than Minneapolis. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Houston in October average around 71°F (22°C), and Minneapolis averages at about 52°F (11°C).

It's quite rainy in Houston. In October, Houston usually receives more rain than Minneapolis. Houston gets 4.2 inches (107 mm) of rain, while Minneapolis receives 1.8 inches (45 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Houston 71°F (22°C) 
    Minneapolis 52°F (11°C)

Should I visit Houston or Minneapolis in the Winter?

Both Minneapolis and Houston during the winter are popular places to visit. The winter months attract visitors to Houston because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Minneapolis this time of year.

It's quite cold in Minneapolis in the winter. In January, Houston is generally much warmer than Minneapolis. Daily temperatures in Houston average around 52°F (11°C), and Minneapolis fluctuates around 15°F (-10°C).

Houston usually gets more rain in January than Minneapolis. Houston gets 3.6 inches (91 mm) of rain, while Minneapolis receives 0.9 inches (22 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Houston 52°F (11°C) 
    Minneapolis 15°F (-10°C)

Should I visit Houston or Minneapolis in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Houston and Minneapolis. The activities around the city are the main draw to Houston this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Minneapolis for the activities around the city.

Houston is much warmer than Minneapolis in the spring. The daily temperature in Houston averages around 70°F (21°C) in April, and Minneapolis fluctuates around 49°F (10°C).

In April, Houston usually receives more rain than Minneapolis. Houston gets 3.1 inches (78 mm) of rain, while Minneapolis receives 2.1 inches (53 mm) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Houston 70°F (21°C) 
    Minneapolis 49°F (10°C)

Typical Weather for Minneapolis and Houston

Houston Minneapolis
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 52°F (11°C) 3.6 inches (91 mm) 15°F (-10°C) 0.9 inches (22 mm)
Feb 55°F (13°C) 3.1 inches (79 mm) 21°F (-6°C) 0.7 inches (19 mm)
Mar 63°F (17°C) 2.8 inches (71 mm) 34°F (1°C) 1.7 inches (43 mm)
Apr 70°F (21°C) 3.1 inches (78 mm) 49°F (10°C) 2.1 inches (53 mm)
May 76°F (25°C) 5.2 inches (132 mm) 62°F (16°C) 2.9 inches (74 mm)
Jun 81°F (27°C) 6.4 inches (163 mm) 71°F (22°C) 3.2 inches (82 mm)
Jul 84°F (29°C) 4.8 inches (122 mm) 76°F (25°C) 3.4 inches (86 mm)
Aug 83°F (29°C) 4.4 inches (113 mm) 73°F (23°C) 2.8 inches (71 mm)
Sep 80°F (27°C) 5.6 inches (143 mm) 64°F (18°C) 2.2 inches (57 mm)
Oct 71°F (22°C) 4.2 inches (107 mm) 52°F (11°C) 1.8 inches (45 mm)
Nov 63°F (17°C) 4.1 inches (104 mm) 36°F (2°C) 1.3 inches (33 mm)
Dec 55°F (13°C) 3.4 inches (87 mm) 21°F (-6°C) 0.9 inches (22 mm)