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

Should you visit Houston or Newport?

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 Newport. 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. 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 shopping, museums, and nightlife. See Houston travel costs.

Newport

Newport is a historical, charming, and coastal town. Don't miss this spot, as it's a charming small town with plenty of activities. Newport is a beautiful place to visit, too. And you can't forget about the food, beaches, and shopping. See Newport travel costs.

Houston and Newport: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for students
  • Big city activities
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with couples
  • Less popular with backpackers
  • Less walkable
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Popular beach
  • Scenic old town
  • Known for its beauty
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Very walkable
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with backpackers


Is there more to do in Houston or Newport?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Houston. Although Houston and Newport are both popular with visitors, Houston has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Houston is more popular for its nightlife, music, and big city activities, while Newport is known for its beaches, historical sights, shopping, small town charm, and impressive beauty. Newport is more touristy than Houston and is popular for its sailing regattas, its mansions along Bellevue Avenue, and its maritime history. 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 Newport?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Houston
Newport

Plenty of people visit the high quality sights and museums in both Houston and Newport.

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.

Newport offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. The historic mansions and local museums educate visitors on the town's maritime past and colonial roots. Some of the more popular places to visit include The Breakers, The Elms Mansion, The Marble House, and Chateau-sur-mer Mansion.


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

Houston
Newport

Foodies will find both Houston and Newport both to be high quality destinations.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit 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.

Newport has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. Find a waterfront restaurant and enjoy fresh seafood and a charming atmosphere. Many restaurants are influenced by the town's Portuguese and Irish roots. You'll find classic pubs as well as brunch cafes and traditional taverns.

Is Houston or Newport Better for Nightlife?

Houston
Newport

Houston is a very popular place for its evening party scene. Also, Newport is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for nightlife.

Houston has a large number of nightlife venues. 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.

Newport has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. There's a lively atmosphere in the evening with many pubs, taverns, and bars that keep the energy high.

Is Houston or Newport Better for Music?

Houston
Newport

Houston is very good for its music scene. However, Newport is not a live music destination.

Music lovers will find a few good venues in Houston. Popular music venues include Fitzgerald's, Walter's Downtown, and The Continental Club.

Newport is not a live music destination.


Is Houston or Newport Better for Beaches?

Houston
Newport

Newport is well known for the beach. However, Houston is not a beach destination.

Many people visit Newport for it's beautiful beaches. Tucked in along the rocky coastline are many beautiful sandy beaches. You'll find popular and active beaches where you can lounge in a chair and people watch, as well as more secluded spots where you can enjoy a more peaceful setting. The largest beach is Easton's Beach (also known as First Beach). Surfers and boaters enjoy Sachuest Beach (or Second Beach), and a less popular, but very rewarding beach is also King Park Beach.

Houston is not a beach destination.

Is Houston or Newport Better for its Old Town?

Houston
Newport

Newport is well known for its old town. However, Houston does not have a historic old town.

There are many historical things to see in the old town of Newport. The Historic District is filled with colonial buildings and impressive mansions. There are cobblestone streets and a charming loop through the town's Old Quarter.

Houston does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Houston or Newport?

Houston
Newport

Newport is well known for its shopping opportunities. Also, Houston is still popular, but not quite as popular for its shopping areas.

Newport is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. Walk along the charming cobblestone streets and pop in the many local boutiques and shops.

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 Newport More Beautiful?

Houston
Newport

Newport is a good destination for its scenery and beauty. However, Houston is not a destination known for its beauty.

Newport is a beautiful place to visit, too. The coastal setting and charming architecture give it a lot of character.

Houston is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Houston or Newport Better for Families?

Houston
Newport

Both Houston and Newport are high quality 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 Newport. For an educational and interactive experience, head to Save The Bay Exploration Center & Aquarium. The Norman Bird Sanctuary also has a lot of land and places to explore. Kids will enjoy a visit to the beach or running around Breton Point State Park as well. On a rainy day, Ryans Family Amusements is the perfect way to pass some time.

Is Houston or Newport Better for Couples?

Houston
Newport

Newport is a world-class destination for its romantic activities. Also, Houston is still popular, but not quite as popular for couples.

Newport is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. It's a coastal town with a lot of charm that makes for a perfect romantic escape. Enjoy dining and shopping along Thames Street or take a walk along the coast. There are many local restaurants and evening activities for couples as well.

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 Newport Better for Students?

Houston
Newport

Houston is very good for its student-friendly activities. However, Newport is not popular with students.

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

Newport is not popular with students.

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

Houston
Newport

Newport 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 Newport, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There are buses operated by RIPTA. You can visit most of the attractions in the downtown area by catching a ride on one of the classic green and gold hybrid trolley buses.

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 Newport a more walkable city?

Houston
Newport

Newport is well known for its high level of walkability. However, Houston is not particularly known for its ease of walking around.

Newport is a very walkable town. The town's downtown are compact and fun to explore on foot. There is a nice concentration of shops, restaurants, hotels and sights.

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 Newport Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Newport or Houston?

How long in Houston or Newport?

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

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

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

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


  • How many days in Houston or Newport? Ideal Length of Stay
    Houston 2-3 
    Newport 2-5

One day in Houston or Newport?

Because Houston 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.

In Newport, you'll find nightlife and food. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. 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 Newport?

Because Houston 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. A weekend here is typical. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Houston has to offer.

In Newport, you'll find food and shopping. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Visiting the old town is also a must. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Newport has to offer.

Five days in Houston or Newport?

Houston 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.

Newport is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Newport has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.


A week in Houston or Newport?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Houston. Many people enjoy the live music and food when visiting Houston. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Newport. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Newport. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. 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 Wildlife Tours to United States of America, The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in United States of America, The Best Historical Tours in United States of America, and The Best 10-Day Tours in United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Newport or Houston?

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

  • Houston Prices
    USA Prices
    Newport Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Houston $287
    Newport $192

The average daily cost (per person) in Houston is $287, while the average daily cost in Newport is $192. 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 Newport in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Houston $142
    Newport $92
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Houston $284
    Newport $184
Compare Hotels in Houston and Newport

Looking for a hotel in Houston or Newport? 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 Newport


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 Newport Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Houston $72
    Newport $36

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Houston

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Houston:

  • Sedan Airport Transfer in Houston: $165
  • Private Transfer in a Luxury Vehicle to and from Houston Airport: $135
  • Private One-way Transfer from George Bush Airport to Houston: $76
  • Private Departure Transfer to Houston William P. Hobby Airport HOU: $48
  • Private Departure Transfer from Galveston to HOU Airport: $53
  • Private Arrival Transfer from Houston George Bush Airport (IAH): $51
  • Privat Transfer from Galveston Port to Houston Airport (IAH): $280
  • Houston to Houston George Bush Airport (IAH) - Departure Private Transfer: $56
  • Houston George Bush Airport (IAH) to Houston - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $113
  • Houston George Bush Airport (IAH) to Houston - Arrival Private Transfer: $56
  • Houston Airport (HOU) to Galveston Round-Trip Private Transfer: $106
  • Houston Airport (HOU) to Galveston Arrival Private Transfer: $53

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Newport

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

  • Private Transfer from Newport Port to Providence Airport (PVD): $122

Is it cheaper to fly into Houston or Newport?

Prices for flights to both Newport 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 $60
    Newport $78

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: $70
  • Houston Walking Food Tour With Secret Food Tours: $85
  • Howdy H-Town EADO Food Tour: $90
  • East Downtown Food Tour: $90
  • Houston Downtown: Secret Food Tours: $92

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Newport

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

  • Newport Neighborhood Food Tour: $89

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Houston $14
    Newport $17

Tours and Activities in Houston

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

  • H- Town 3rd Ward Tour with 15ft Party Truck : $46
  • Houston Ghosts and Hauntings By US Ghost Adventures: $31
  • 1 Hour Private Christmas Lights Tour in Houston : $39
  • 2-Hour Houston Skyline Tour: $69
  • 7-Hour Best Of Houston and Galveston Tour: $120
  • 7-Hour Welcome to Houston and Space Center Combination Tour: $120
  • 8-Hour Nasa Space Center and Best of Galveston Tour: $140
  • 90s R&B Party Bike Tour through Downtown Houston: $46
  • All-Inclusive Hip-Hop Brunch Party Bike Tour: $65
  • Astroville Best of Houston City Driving Tour with Live Guide: $38
  • Astroville Driving Tour & NASA Space Center Ticket/Transportation: $80
  • Astroville Houston Tunnel Tour (in Spanish): $30

Tours and Activities in Newport

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

  • Newport Downtown Historic Audio APP Self Guided Smart Phone Tour: $6.75
  • Newport, Rhode Island: Cliff Walk Gilded Age Audio Tour: $7.99
  • Ocean Drive Historic District: A Newport Self-Guided Driving Tour: $9.99
  • Newport's Opulent Gilded Age Homes: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $9.99
  • Newport Cliff Walk - Legends of the Gilded Age GPS Guided Audio Tour: $12
  • Touro Synagogue Entry and Guided Tour: $14
  • Newport Cliff Walk Self-Guided Walking Tour: $15
  • Scenic Newport, RI Self-Guided Driving Audio Tour: $17
  • Ultimate Newport Self-Guided Bundle Tour : $20
  • Colonial Newport Walking Tour: $20
  • Golden to Gilded Age Guided Walking Tour: $20
  • Colonial History Walking Tour with Museum Entry: $20

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Houston $13
    Newport $14

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
  • Private 3-in-1 Sightseeing, Brewery, and Mural Tour of Houston by Cart: $115


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Houston and Newport, we can see that Houston is more expensive. And not only is Newport much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Newport would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Newport 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 Newport.

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


Which is Bigger, Houston or Newport?

Houston has a larger population, and is about 80 times larger than the population of Newport. When comparing the sizes of Houston and Newport, 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 Newport?

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 Newport in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Houston as well as Newport. Many travelers come to Houston for the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences. Additionally, many visitors come to Newport in the summer for the beaches, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Houston is a little warmer than Newport. Typically, the summer temperatures in Houston in July average around 84°F (29°C), and Newport averages at about 73°F (23°C).

Houston receives a lot of rain in the summer. Houston usually gets more rain in July than Newport. Houston gets 4.8 inches (122 mm) of rain, while Newport receives 2.8 inches (72 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Houston 84°F (29°C) 
    Newport 73°F (23°C)

Should I visit Houston or Newport in the Autumn?

Both Newport and Houston are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Houston in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the music scene. Also, most visitors come to Newport for the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

In October, Houston is generally much warmer than Newport. Daily temperatures in Houston average around 71°F (22°C), and Newport fluctuates around 53°F (12°C).

It's quite rainy in Houston. In October, Houston usually receives more rain than Newport. Houston gets 4.2 inches (107 mm) of rain, while Newport receives 3.3 inches (83 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Houston 71°F (22°C) 
    Newport 53°F (12°C)

Should I visit Houston or Newport in the Winter?

Both Newport and Houston during the winter are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Houston for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Newport because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

The weather in Newport can be very cold. Houston is much warmer than Newport in the winter. The daily temperature in Houston averages around 52°F (11°C) in January, and Newport fluctuates around 28°F (-2°C).

Houston usually gets around the same amount of rain in January as Newport. Houston gets 3.6 inches (91 mm) of rain, while Newport receives 3.5 inches (89 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Houston 52°F (11°C) 
    Newport 28°F (-2°C)

Should I visit Houston or Newport in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Houston and Newport. The spring months attract visitors to Houston because of the activities around the city. Also, the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty are the main draw to Newport this time of year.

In the spring, Houston is much warmer than Newport. Typically, the spring temperatures in Houston in April average around 70°F (21°C), and Newport averages at about 48°F (9°C).

In April, Houston usually receives less rain than Newport. Houston gets 3.1 inches (78 mm) of rain, while Newport receives 3.7 inches (94 mm) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Houston 70°F (21°C) 
    Newport 48°F (9°C)

Typical Weather for Newport and Houston

Houston Newport
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 52°F (11°C) 3.6 inches (91 mm) 28°F (-2°C) 3.5 inches (89 mm)
Feb 55°F (13°C) 3.1 inches (79 mm) 30°F (-1°C) 3.5 inches (88 mm)
Mar 63°F (17°C) 2.8 inches (71 mm) 38°F (3°C) 4 inches (101 mm)
Apr 70°F (21°C) 3.1 inches (78 mm) 48°F (9°C) 3.7 inches (94 mm)
May 76°F (25°C) 5.2 inches (132 mm) 58°F (15°C) 3.5 inches (89 mm)
Jun 81°F (27°C) 6.4 inches (163 mm) 67°F (20°C) 2.6 inches (67 mm)
Jul 84°F (29°C) 4.8 inches (122 mm) 73°F (23°C) 2.8 inches (72 mm)
Aug 83°F (29°C) 4.4 inches (113 mm) 72°F (22°C) 3.9 inches (99 mm)
Sep 80°F (27°C) 5.6 inches (143 mm) 64°F (18°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm)
Oct 71°F (22°C) 4.2 inches (107 mm) 53°F (12°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm)
Nov 63°F (17°C) 4.1 inches (104 mm) 44°F (7°C) 4.5 inches (115 mm)
Dec 55°F (13°C) 3.4 inches (87 mm) 33°F (0°C) 4.1 inches (105 mm)