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

Should you visit Miami or Seattle?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

Which city is more affordable and which is best for your travel style? If you're trying to figure out where to go next, comparing the travel costs between Miami and Seattle can help you decide which place is right for you.

Miami

Miami is a diverse, bustling, and high energy beach 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 shopping, nightlife, and live music. See Miami travel costs.

Seattle

Seattle is a outdoorsy, laid-back, and bustling city. It's a large city with plenty of activites for visitors as well. Seattle is a gorgeous place to visit. It's also known for food, beaches, and hiking. See Seattle travel costs.

Miami and Seattle: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Miami or Seattle?

Both Seattle and Miami have plenty of things to do for visitors. Both offer a variety of sights, activities, and attractions for tourists. Miami is better known for its food, nightlife, music, resorts, beaches, shopping, and big city activities, while Seattle is more popular for its museums and attractions, theatre productions, hiking, and impressive beauty. Miami is more touristy than Seattle and is known for its long sandy beaches, glitzy nightlife scene, diverse cultures, and award-winning restaurants. Seattle is well known for its beautiful waterfront setting, diverse culinary scene, thriving art and cultural venues, and being the home of many international tech companies.

How is Miami different from Seattle?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Miami or Seattle?

Seattle is well known for its museums and landmarks. However, Miami does not have museums and landmarks.

Many visitors head to Seattle specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. 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.

Miami does not have museums and landmarks.

Is Miami or Seattle Better for Theater?

Seattle is very good for theatre. However, Miami 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.

Miami is not a theatre destination.

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

Miami is renowned for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Seattle is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its restaurants.

Known for it's food and restaurant scene, Miami is always at the top of any foodie's travel list. The city's food scene is as diverse as its population. It is a blend of Caribbean, Latin American, and South American flavors and it is a melting pot of cultures and cuisines. There is everything from award-winning restaurants to local dives that offer excellent dishes and experiences. The city is known for its stone crabs, fish sandwiches, Cuban sandwiches, and key lime pie.

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in Seattle. 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 Miami or Seattle Better for Nightlife?

Miami is renowned for its evening party scene. Also, Seattle is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for nightlife.

Miami is a destination that you simply have to visit at least once for nightlife. From the posh nightlife clubs in South Beach, to the local salsa dancing venues in Little Havana, Miami is a city that thrives with energy. There are many world-renowned clubs that keep the music and drinks flowing through the entire night. There's also a glitzy and glamourous scene where the wealthy like to see and be seen.

Seattle has a lively atmosphere and nightlife is popular here. 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 Miami or Seattle Better for Music?

Miami is renowned for its music scene. Also, Seattle is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for live music.

In Miami you'll find nightly musicians performing at a variety of venues. Popular live music venues include Ball and Chain, Cafe La Trova, Flamingo Theater Bar.

Whether you like big venues or smaller artists, Seattle has diverse options. The city has developed its own music culture around several genres including alternative rock and grunge.

Is Miami or Seattle Better for Resorts?

Miami is renowned for its resorts. However, Seattle is not a resort destination.

Miami offers an unforgettable resort vacation. Known for it's luxury, you'll find many resorts in the area. Popular options include The Ritz-Carlton South Beach, Fontainebleau, and Carillon Miami.

Seattle is not a resort destination.

Is Miami or Seattle Better for Beaches?

Miami is renowned for the beach. Also, Seattle is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its beaches.

The beaches in Miami are among the best in the world. If you're looking for long sandy beaches, luxury yacht clubs, and fine dining restaurants, the area's beaches have them all. Some of the best beaches in the area include the world-famous South Beach, the North Beach Oceanside Park, Sunny Isles Beach, and Surfside. Many beaches are lined with high rise hotels that offer an urban beach experience.

Plenty of visitors enjoy relaxing on the beach in Seattle. 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.

Is Miami or Seattle Better for Hiking?

Seattle is well known for its hiking experiences. However, Miami 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.

Miami is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Miami or Seattle?

Miami is renowned for its shopping areas. Also, Seattle is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for shopping.

Miami is a world class destination for shoppers. The city has every high end brand you could want, along with diverse neighborhoods with local finds and unique purchases. You'll find many diverse shopping opportunities that are influenced by the city's cultural scene. You'll also find many souvenir stands and t-shirt shops.

Plenty of visitors enjoy shopping while in Seattle. 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 Miami or Seattle More Beautiful?

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

Seattle is a gorgeous place to visit. 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.

Miami is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Miami or Seattle Better for Families?

Miami 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.

Miami is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. Because it's so big, you'll find a number of kid-friendly activities in the area. There's the Miami Zoo, various waterparks, the Everglades Alligator Park, Miccosukee Indian Village, and plenty of indoor playgrounds in case the weather doesn't cooperate.

Seattle is a family-friendly beach 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 Miami or Seattle Better for Couples?

Miami is notable for couples. Also, Seattle is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for romance.

Miami is a very popular place to visit for couples. For couples who love nightlife, wining and dining, and high end beach clubs, this is the place to be. There are many award-winning restaurants and plenty of glitz and glam that make for a great romantic getaway.

Seattle is a nice destination for couples. 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 Miami or Seattle Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Miami and Seattle are notable places to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Miami is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. This city is large enough to have something for everyone, so you'll find several hostels in the area that bring in the backpackers.

It's common for backpackers to 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.

Is Miami or Seattle Better for Students?

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

Seattle is very popular with students. 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 Miami. Spring break in Miami is the stuff of legends.

Is Miami or Seattle Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

You'll find somewhat comparable public transit options in both Miami and Seattle.

You'll find some public transit in Miami, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There's an elevated metrorail as well as buses around the city.

While Seattle offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There is a light rail system, a monorail, a street car, and buses.

Is Miami or Seattle a more walkable city?

Miami and Seattle both are excellent when exploring on foot.

Miami is very walkable. Many parts of city are surprisingly walkable and pedestrian friendly, allowing you to eat out, go shopping, or explore without the need for a car.

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

For even more information, also check out Is Miami Worth Visiting? and Is Seattle Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Seattle or Miami?

How long in Miami or Seattle?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Miami and Seattle. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Seattle than in Miami. Usually, 7 days is a good amount of time for Miami, and 2-3 days is enough time in Seattle.

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

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

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

One day in Miami or Seattle?

Because Miami is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. This beach city offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

In Seattle, many people enjoy the nightlife and live music that this laid-back big city offers. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

A weekend in Miami or Seattle?

Because Miami 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. Most people come for the beaches. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Seattle. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. This would be the perfect place to spend a weekend, as it has just the right amount of activities. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Five days in Miami or Seattle?

Miami is a great place to explore. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. 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 fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the big city destination of Seattle. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

A week in Miami or Seattle?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Miami. Many people enjoy the shopping and nightlife when visiting Miami. It's also a relaxing resort destination. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

You'll find shopping and museums around the bustling big city of Seattle. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Sightseeing Tours in United States of America, The Best Cruise Tours and Packages in United States of America, The Best Cultural Tours in United States of America, and The Best Photography Tours in United States of America.

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

Which is Bigger, Miami or Seattle?

Seattle has a larger population, and is about 49% larger than the population of Miami. When comparing the sizes of Miami 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 Miami 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 Miami or Seattle in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Miami and Seattle. The beaches, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Miami this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Seattle for the beaches, the hiking, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Miami is generally a little warmer than Seattle. Daily temperatures in Miami average around 83°F (28°C), and Seattle fluctuates around 67°F (19°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Seattle this time of the year. In Miami, it's very sunny this time of the year. Miami usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Seattle during summer. Miami gets 316 hours of sunny skies, while Seattle receives 313 hours of full sun in the summer.

Miami gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In July, Miami usually receives more rain than Seattle. Miami gets 5.9 inches (149 mm) of rain, while Seattle receives 0.9 inches (22 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Miami or Seattle in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Miami as well as Seattle. Many travelers come to Miami for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the music scene. Also, many visitors come to Seattle in the autumn for the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

Miami is much warmer than Seattle in the autumn. The daily temperature in Miami averages around 78°F (26°C) in October, and Seattle fluctuates around 54°F (12°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Miami this time of the year. In the autumn, Miami often gets more sunshine than Seattle. Miami gets 275 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Seattle receives 143 hours of full sun.

Miami receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Miami usually gets more rain in October than Seattle. Miami gets 5.6 inches (143 mm) of rain, while Seattle receives 3.3 inches (83 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Miami or Seattle in the Winter?

Both Seattle and Miami are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Miami in the winter for the shopping scene and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Seattle for the museums, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine during these months.

In the winter, Miami is much warmer than Seattle. Typically, the winter temperatures in Miami in January average around 67°F (20°C), and Seattle averages at about 42°F (5°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Miami. Miami usually receives more sunshine than Seattle during winter. Miami gets 243 hours of sunny skies, while Seattle receives 67 hours of full sun in the winter.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Seattle. In January, Miami usually receives less rain than Seattle. Miami gets 2.2 inches (55 mm) of rain, while Seattle receives 5.4 inches (136 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Miami or Seattle in the Spring?

Both Seattle and Miami during the spring are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Miami for the beaches and the activities around the city during these months. Furthermore, the spring months attract visitors to Seattle because of the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty.

In April, Miami is generally much warmer than Seattle. Daily temperatures in Miami average around 75°F (24°C), and Seattle fluctuates around 51°F (11°C).

In Seattle, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Miami. In the spring, Miami often gets more sunshine than Seattle. Miami gets 300 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Seattle receives 212 hours of full sun.

Miami usually gets more rain in April than Seattle. Miami 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 Miami