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

Should you visit Houston or Seattle?

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 Seattle. 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. Visitors will also find so much to do here because it's a large city with many sights and attractions. Other popular activities here include museums, nightlife, and live music. See Houston travel costs.

Seattle

Seattle is a progressive, cultural, and outdoorsy city. Travelers will also find plenty of sights and attractions here, as it's a big city that attracts lots of visitors. Seattle is a beautiful place to visit, too. And you can't forget about the food, beaches, and hiking. See Seattle travel costs.

Houston and Seattle: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Houston or Seattle?

Visitors will generally find more to do in Seattle than Houston. While Houston is larger than Seattle, Seattle has more sights, attractions, and activities for tourists. Seattle is more popular for its theatre productions, music, beaches, hiking, and impressive beauty, while Houston is known for its big city activities. Seattle is more touristy than Houston and is known for its beautiful waterfront setting, diverse culinary scene, thriving art and cultural venues, and being the home of many international tech companies. It is also home to The Space Needle. Houston is popular for its sprawling size, its local Texas restaurants, and being the home to NASA.

How is Houston different from Seattle?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

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.

Seattle offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. The city's most iconic landmark is the Space Needle. There's also a zoo, aquarium, and a handful of nice museums. Several favorites include the Chihuly Garden and Glass, the Museum of History & Industry, and the Seattle Art Museum.

Is Houston or Seattle Better for Theater?

Seattle is a good destination for its theatre productions. However, Houston is not a theatre destination.

With some theater and performance venues, you might want to see a show in Seattle. There are a handful of theaters where you can enjoy traveling Broadway shows or smaller productions.

Houston is not a theatre destination.

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

Foodies will find both Houston and Seattle both to be great 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.

Seattle has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. The city has many diverse dining options that make it a popular foodie destination. The seafood is world-class with many restaurants offering fresh caught salmon and oysters. There are also many great Asian restaurants with Pho, sushi, and dim sum all being popular around town. Seattle is also famous as the birthplace of Starbucks coffee, and both chain and independent coffee shops are common. Finally, make sure you check out the donuts at Pike's Place Market.

Is Houston or Seattle Better for Nightlife?

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

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 Seattle for the nightlife scene. The city is known for its breweries and eclectic nightlife scene. There is a thriving theater scene as well as many bars and trendy restaurants. The best neighborhoods for nightlife include Capitol Hill, Belltown, and Downtown.

Is Houston or Seattle Better for Music?

Seattle is well known for its live music scene. Also, Houston is still popular, but not quite as popular for its music scene.

Music is a popular form of entertainment in Seattle. The city has developed its own music culture around several genres including alternative rock and grunge.

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

Is Houston or Seattle Better for Beaches?

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

Seattle offers a nice beach destination. The city is surrounded by water so there are a number of rocky and sandy beaches nearby. Some beaches are more popular with locals while others attract a large amount of tourists. Alki Beach Park, Discovery Park, and Golden Gardens Park are among the best.

Houston is not a beach destination.

Is Houston or Seattle Better for Hiking?

Seattle is well known for its hiking experiences. However, Houston is not a hiking destination.

You'll find a nice variety of hiking trails around Seattle. It's famously an outdoorsy city and the hiking will not disappoint. Within a half hour drive of town you'll find beautiful forests and stunning natural beauty. Head into the Cascades, to the coastal rainforests, or around Mount Rainier for all kinds of diverse landscapes. Seattle is well situated for you to experience hiking through the diverse Pacific Northwest landscapes.

Houston is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Houston or Seattle?

Shopping is a popular activity in both Seattle 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.

Seattle has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. Shopping in town has an eclectic mix of high end brands, local vendors, and vintage shops. There are farmers markets as well as the famous Pike Place Market, but also major malls with all of the standard department stores.

Is Houston or Seattle More Beautiful?

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

Seattle is a beautiful place to visit, too. Set against the backdrop of Mt. Rainier, the city has both natural and architectural beauty. It's also beautifully situated on the water with lots of parks and vegetation throughout.

Houston is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Houston or Seattle Better for Families?

Houston is notable for its family-friendly activities. Also, Seattle is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

Houston is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. 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.

Seattle is a family-friendly city. This is an outdoor city with plenty of places where kids can run around and experience nature. There are several good museums as well as outdoor activities, parks, and a zoo. Make sure you check out the Burke Museum of Natural History and Culture, Volunteer Park, and Artists at Play Playground.

Is Houston or Seattle Better for Couples?

Houston and Seattle both good 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.

Seattle is a good city for couples to visit. The city has a laid back vibe, a nice downtown area, and plenty of outdoor activities. There are a diversity of restaurants to enjoy and a great nightlife scene that makes for a good couple's getaway.

Is Houston or Seattle Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Seattle is a good destination for backpackers. However, Houston is not particularly known for backpackers and budget travelers.

Plenty of backpackers visit Seattle. Although it's not the most popular city for backpackers in America, the city's chill vibe, fun breweries, and lively setting make it a great spot for young backpackers.

Houston is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. Most backpackers skip this sprawling city, but there are some hostels and cheap motels.

Is Houston or Seattle Better for Students?

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

Many students visit Seattle. It is a major IT center with a large university, so international students will have plenty of opportunities here. It's also a vibrant city with many outdoor recreational opportunities and a fun 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 Seattle Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Seattle 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 Seattle, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There is a light rail system, a monorail, a street car, and 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 Seattle a more walkable city?

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

Seattle is a very walkable city. Many neighborhoods are very walkable, particularly in the downtown and major tourist areas.

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 Seattle Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Seattle or Houston?

How long in Houston or Seattle?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Houston and Seattle. In our opinion, Seattle has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Seattle than Houston. However, 2-3 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

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

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

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

One day in Houston or Seattle?

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 Seattle, you'll find food and shopping. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. 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 Seattle?

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 Seattle, you'll find shopping and museums. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Seattle has to offer.

Five days in Houston or Seattle?

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.

Seattle is a great place to explore. Hikers are also drawn to this area. 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 Seattle?

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 Seattle. Many people enjoy the theater and nightlife when visiting Seattle. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. 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.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Houston or Seattle?

Houston has a larger population, and is about 4 times larger than the population of Seattle. When comparing the sizes of Houston and Seattle, 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 Seattle?

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 Seattle in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Houston and Seattle. Many visitors come to Houston in the summer for the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Seattle for the beaches, the hiking, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In the summer, Houston is a little warmer than Seattle. Typically, the summer temperatures in Houston in July average around 84°F (29°C), and Seattle averages at about 67°F (19°C).

Houston gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In July, Houston usually receives more rain than Seattle. Houston gets 4.8 inches (122 mm) of rain, while Seattle receives 0.9 inches (22 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Houston or Seattle in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Houston as well as Seattle. 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 Seattle because of the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Houston is generally much warmer than Seattle. Daily temperatures in Houston average around 71°F (22°C), and Seattle fluctuates around 54°F (12°C).

Houston receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Houston usually gets more rain in October than Seattle. Houston gets 4.2 inches (107 mm) of rain, while Seattle receives 3.3 inches (83 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Houston or Seattle in the Winter?

Both Seattle and Houston are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The winter months attract visitors to Houston because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, the museums, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine are the main draw to Seattle this time of year.

Houston is much warmer than Seattle in the winter. The daily temperature in Houston averages around 52°F (11°C) in January, and Seattle fluctuates around 42°F (5°C).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Seattle. In January, Houston usually receives less rain than Seattle. Houston gets 3.6 inches (91 mm) of rain, while Seattle receives 5.4 inches (136 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Houston or Seattle in the Spring?

Both Seattle and Houston during the spring are popular places to visit. The activities around the city are the main draw to Houston this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Seattle for the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty.

In the spring, Houston is much warmer than Seattle. Typically, the spring temperatures in Houston in April average around 70°F (21°C), and Seattle averages at about 51°F (11°C).

Houston usually gets more rain in April than Seattle. Houston gets 3.1 inches (78 mm) of rain, while Seattle receives 2.5 inches (64 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Seattle and Houston