A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Minneapolis vs. New York City for Attractions, Food, Nightlife, and Couples

Should you visit Minneapolis or New York City?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Minneapolis or New York City, this travel comparison, which includes costs, can help. The overall cost of travel is usually a consideration when deciding where to go next, and the cost comparison down below can help you decide based on the average prices from other travelers along with your own travel budget.

Minneapolis

Minneapolis is a dynamic, innovative, and diverse city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. Other reasons to visit include food, shopping, and museums.

New York City

New York City is a one-of-a-kind, vibrant, and energetic city. With plenty of activities and things to do, it's a huge city that draws plenty of visitors. It's a beautiful place to visit, too. Visitors also love the live music, food, and shopping.

Minneapolis and New York City: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Minneapolis or New York City?

Tourists will generally find more to do in New York City than Minneapolis. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. New York City is more touristy than Minneapolis and is known for its high-reaching skyscrapers, iconic landmarks, world-class theater scene, and endless energy. It is also well known for The Statue of Liberty. Minneapolis is famous for its professional sports teams, countless outdoor activities, and friendly people.

How is Minneapolis different from New York City?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Minneapolis or New York City?

New York City is a world-class destination for its museums and history. Also, Minneapolis is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its museums and landmarks.

The museums and tourist attractions in New York City are world-renowned. The sights and museums around the city are too numerous to list, but some of the most famous include the Statue of Liberty, the Metropolitan Museum of Art, the Museum of Modern Art, Central Park, and the Empire State Building. This is a city that is filled with iconic landmarks and you could spend weeks here and still not see it all.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into Minneapolis. 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 Minneapolis or New York City Better for Theater?

New York City is a world-class destination for its theatre productions. However, Minneapolis is not a theatre destination.

Famous for its theaters and plays, you'll find world-renowned shows in New York City. Visiting Broadway is a quintessential NYC experience. Whether you enjoy the theater or simply want to experience something new, seeing a Broadway show is a true bucket list activity.

Minneapolis is not a theatre destination.

Is the Food Better in Minneapolis or New York City? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

New York City is a world-class destination for its restaurants. Also, Minneapolis is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

Known for it's food and restaurant scene, New York City is always at the top of any foodie's travel list. The city has a diverse variety of restaurants, with everything from local dives to Michelin star options. There are many neighborhoods that are notable for their ethnic cuisine, particularly Little Italy and Chinatown. Quintessential NYC dishes include NYC pizza, NYC hot dogs, bagels, and Chinese dim sum.

There are many up and coming restaurants in the Minneapolis area. 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 Minneapolis or New York City Better for Nightlife?

New York City is a world-class destination for nightlife and partying. Also, Minneapolis is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its evening party scene.

People head to New York City just to party. Known as the city that never sleeps, you can be assured that NYC has some of the best nightlife in the world. There are world class bars and clubs, but also local venues that have a more relaxed atmosphere. Several famous clubs include Paul's Cocktail Lounge, Le Bain, and Avant Gardner.

Minneapolis is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. 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 Minneapolis or New York City Better for Music?

New York City is a world-class destination for its live music scene. However, Minneapolis is not a live music destination.

With so many music venues, you're guaranteed a show any night of the week in New York City. Popular music venues include Music Hall of Williamsburg, Radio City Music Hall, Beacon Theatre, and Forest Hills Stadium.

Minneapolis is not a live music destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Minneapolis or New York City?

Shoppers can find a variety of world-class stores in both Minneapolis and New York City.

Known for shopping, Minneapolis draws large crowds to its stores. 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.

New York City is a world class destination for shoppers. The shopping is as diverse as the city itself. Head for Fifth Avenue for high end shopping or check out any of the many street markets for local items. New York is known for its many flea markets where you can find vintage items at a good price. And if you're looking to pick up a souvenir shirt or knick knack, there are plenty of souvenir shops around town as well.

Is Minneapolis or New York City Better for Christmas?

New York City is a world-class destination for its Christmas holiday experiences. However, Minneapolis does not offer Christmas activities.

New York City offers plenty of sights and activities around Christmas. Christmas in the city is a quintessential experience. From the Christmas tree and ice skating at Rockefeller Center to seeing a live performance of the Nutcracker, everyone enjoys the holidays in New York.

Minneapolis does not offer Christmas activities.

Is Minneapolis or New York City Better for Christmas Markets?

New York City is a very popular place for visiting Christmas markets. However, Minneapolis does not offer Christmas markets.

New York City offers plenty of Christmas markets. There are a number of Christmas markets that pop up around town during the holiday season. Nothing will get you more in the holiday spirit than wandering these unique venues.

Minneapolis does not offer Christmas markets.

Is Minneapolis or New York City Better for Families?

Minneapolis and New York City are both great destinations for the whole family.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Minneapolis is very family-friendly. 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.

New York City is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. The city has many activities for kids of all ages including world class museums, beautifully designed playgrounds, and theater shows designed just for young ones. There are many kid-friendly restaurants as well and older kids will enjoy visiting the iconic landmarks in this world-class city.

Is Minneapolis or New York City Better for Couples?

New York City is a world-class destination for its romantic activities. Also, Minneapolis is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for couples.

New York City has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. From a beautiful carriage ride through Central Park, to a romantic river cruise at night, there is an endless list of unique activities that couples can enjoy in the city. Whether you're interested in theater, the arts, music, or nightlife, this city has it all.

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 Minneapolis or New York City Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

New York City is a very popular place for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Minneapolis is lacking in good options for backpackers.

Many backpackers visit New York City. It isn't a particularly budget-friendly destination, but it does get its share of backpackers, so you'll find a nice list of hostels and affordable hangouts that are perfect for the backpacker crowd. This is probably one of the most popular cities for backpackers in the entire United States.

Minneapolis is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. While it's not a popular destination for backpackers, there is at least one hostel in town.

Is Minneapolis or New York City Better for Students?

New York City is a world-class destination for its student-friendly activities. Also, Minneapolis is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for students.

New York City is a great destination for students. The city has a diverse population, and international students will feel right at home here exploring the city. There are also plenty of major universities including NYU, Columbia University, and Cornell University.

Students come from all over to stay in 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.

Is Minneapolis or New York City Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

New York City is a world-class destination for times when you don't have a car. Also, Minneapolis is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its public transit.

With a huge network, the transit system in New York City can get you around easily. The city has one of the largest subway systems in the world. There's also an elaborate bus system, ferry system, and yellow taxis all around town.

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.

Is Minneapolis or New York City a more walkable city?

New York City is a world-class destination for its high level of walkability. Also, Minneapolis is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its ease of walking around.

It's very easy to get around on foot in New York City. The majority of the neighborhoods in Manhattan are very walkable and easy to explore on foot. Most people prefer not to drive here as it can be overwhelming and chaotic.

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

For even more information, also check out Is Minneapolis Worth Visiting? and Is New York City Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in New York City or Minneapolis?

How long in Minneapolis or New York City?

Both Minneapolis and New York City have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in New York City than in Minneapolis. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Minneapolis, and 3-7 days is enough time in New York City.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in New York City than Minneapolis 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 New York City.

One day in Minneapolis or New York City?

Many travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the dynamic destination of Minneapolis. Don't miss the shopping, as that's what most people do. Your budget might influence how long you stay. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

New York City is a one-of-a-kind 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.

A weekend in Minneapolis or New York City?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Minneapolis. Don't miss the shopping, as that's what most people do. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. A weekend is usually enough time to experience most activities.

New York City is a cosmopolitan big city where you can fill many days. This city offers something for everyone. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

Five days in Minneapolis or New York City?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the innovative destination of Minneapolis. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Five days 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.

New York City is a cosmopolitan city where you can fill many days. Many people spend five days here.If you enjoy all that's offered here, then five days is just the right amount of time to spend here. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

A week in Minneapolis or New York City?

You'll find food and shopping around the city of Minneapolis. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

New York City is a big city destination where you can fill many days. Anyone can find something fun to do here. This is a popular place to visit for one week. In one week, you should have a good grasp of this city.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in United States of America, The Best 2-Week Tours in United States of America, The Best 3-Week Tours in United States of America, and The Best Bicycle Tours in United States of America.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Minneapolis and New York City, we can see that New York City 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 New York City would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in New York City 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 Minneapolis Expensive? and Is New York City Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Minneapolis or New York City?

New York City has a larger population, and is about 20 times larger than the population of Minneapolis. When comparing the sizes of Minneapolis and New York City, 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 Minneapolis or New York City?

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 Minneapolis or New York City in the Summer?

Both New York City and Minneapolis are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Minneapolis for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to New York City in the summer for the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Minneapolis is generally around the same temperature as New York City. Daily temperatures in Minneapolis average around 76°F (25°C), and New York City fluctuates around 77°F (25°C).

It rains a lot this time of the year in New York City. In July, Minneapolis usually receives less rain than New York City. Minneapolis gets 3.4 inches (86 mm) of rain, while New York City receives 4.5 inches (114 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Minneapolis or New York City in the Autumn?

Both New York City and Minneapolis during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Minneapolis in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene. Furthermore, most visitors come to New York City for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

Minneapolis is cooler than New York City in the autumn. The daily temperature in Minneapolis averages around 52°F (11°C) in October, and New York City fluctuates around 57°F (14°C).

Minneapolis usually gets less rain in October than New York City. Minneapolis gets 1.8 inches (45 mm) of rain, while New York City receives 3.1 inches (78 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Minneapolis or New York City in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Minneapolis and New York City. Most visitors come to Minneapolis for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Furthermore, the winter months attract visitors to New York City because of the museums, the Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine.

The weather in New York City can be very cold. Minneapolis can be very cold during winter. In the winter, Minneapolis is much colder than New York City. Typically, the winter temperatures in Minneapolis in January average around 15°F (-10°C), and New York City averages at about 31°F (-1°C).

In January, Minneapolis usually receives less rain than New York City. Minneapolis gets 0.9 inches (22 mm) of rain, while New York City receives 3.4 inches (86 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Minneapolis or New York City in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Minneapolis as well as New York City. The spring months attract visitors to Minneapolis because of the activities around the city. Additionally, the activities around the city and the natural beauty are the main draw to New York City this time of year.

In April, Minneapolis is generally cooler than New York City. Daily temperatures in Minneapolis average around 49°F (10°C), and New York City fluctuates around 52°F (11°C).

Minneapolis usually gets less rain in April than New York City. Minneapolis gets 2.1 inches (53 mm) of rain, while New York City receives 3.8 inches (98 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for New York City and Minneapolis