A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Minneapolis vs. San Diego for Families, Couples, Attractions, and Nightlife

Should you visit Minneapolis or San Diego?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Minneapolis or San Diego, 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 innovative, diverse, and dynamic city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. Visitors also love the museums, nightlife, and food.

San Diego

San Diego is a idyllic, fun-filled, and hip coastal city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. It's a beautiful place to visit, too. This destination also has one of those special and quaint feelings. Visitors also love the live music, food, and scuba diving and snorkeling.

Minneapolis and San Diego: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Minneapolis or San Diego?

You'll generally find more things to do in San Diego than Minneapolis. San Diego is bigger than Minneapolis, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. San Diego is better known for its music, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere, while Minneapolis is more popular for its shopping. San Diego is more touristy than Minneapolis and is known for its relaxed coastal atmosphere, its many kid-friendly sights, and its beautiful beaches with critter-filled tidal pools. Also, San Diego is famous for The San Diego Zoo. Minneapolis is well known for its professional sports teams, countless outdoor activities, and friendly people.

How is Minneapolis different from San Diego?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Visiting museums and landmarks is a fun activity in both Minneapolis and San Diego.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Minneapolis can be an interesting and educational experience. 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.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into San Diego. While the city is famous for it's beaches, zoos, and aquariums, don't overlook the museums and other landmarks. Popular options include the Midway Aircraft Carrier Museum, the Old Town State Historic Park, and Point Loma and Cabrillo Monument.

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

Foodies will find both Minneapolis and San Diego both to be notable destinations.

Minneapolis has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. 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.

There are many up and coming restaurants in the San Diego area. The city has great seafood and a diversity of cuisines. There are many casual dining options that serve informal foods like burgers or salads, but there are also award-winning fine dining restaurants with elegant atmospheres. Popular local dishes include fish tacos and California burritos.

Is Minneapolis or San Diego Better for Nightlife?

The great nightlife scene is relatively similar in Minneapolis and San Diego.

Minneapolis has a large number of nightlife venues. 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.

San Diego is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. The heart of the city's nightlife scene is in the Gaslamp District, which is filled with bars, clubs, and music venues. There's a young student population that keeps the nightlife scene casual and fun.

Is Minneapolis or San Diego Better for Music?

San Diego is a very popular place for its live music scene. However, Minneapolis is not a live music destination.

It's worth checking out the music scene in San Diego while you're in town. Popular venues include the House of Blues, The Belly Up, and The Shout House.

Minneapolis is not a live music destination.

Is Minneapolis or San Diego Better for Resorts?

San Diego is a nice place to visit for its luxury resorts. However, Minneapolis is not a resort destination.

With a selection of resorts, San Diego makes a nice vacation spot. Most people prefer to stay in hotels or VRBOs, but several popular resorts include Fairmont Grand Del Mar, Paradise Point, and the famous Hotel del Coronado.

Minneapolis is not a resort destination.

Is Minneapolis or San Diego Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

San Diego is a nice place to visit for its diving and snorkeling. However, Minneapolis is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

San Diego has a few areas where visitors often go scuba diving or snorkeling. Popular snorkeling and diving spots include La Jolla Cove, Mission Bay, and Turtle Town. The water's a bit chili, but it's still worth going for a dive or popping on a mask and snorkeling around for a bit.

Minneapolis is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Minneapolis or San Diego Better for Beaches?

San Diego is a world-class destination for the beache. However, Minneapolis is not a beach destination.

The beaches in San Diego are among the best in the world. The city has great beaches with tidal pools and interesting sea life at low tide. Adults and kids alike will enjoy hitting the beach when the tides are out and looking for local critters in the tidal pools. Popular beaches in the area include La Jolla Cove Beach, Coronado Beach, and Pacific Beach.

Minneapolis is not a beach destination.

Is Minneapolis or San Diego Better for Hiking?

San Diego is a very popular place for its hiking trails. However, Minneapolis is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors explore the nearby hiking trails while visiting San Diego. The city is filled with parks and has tons of natural beauty. There is plenty of urban hiking in town, or you can visit more natural areas just out of town. Head to Torrey Pines State Park or Los Penasquitos Canyon Trail for some nice hikes.

Minneapolis is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Minneapolis or San Diego?

Minneapolis is renowned for its shopping opportunities. Also, San Diego is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal city for its shopping areas.

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.

Many visitors go to San Diego to go shopping. Head to Fashion Valley or Westfield UTC for some fun shopping. There are suburban shopping malls in the area as well as souvenir shops in the more touristy areas.

Is Minneapolis or San Diego Better for Families?

San Diego is a world-class destination for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Minneapolis is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

San Diego is an amazing family-friendly coastal city to visit. The city is filled with kid-friendly activities that everyone can enjoy. There's the world-class zoo, several amusement parks, the beaches, aquariums, and more. The year-round warm weather makes it easy to spend plenty of time outdoors in parks, playgrounds, and beaches where kids can stretch their legs and run around.

Minneapolis is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. 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 Minneapolis or San Diego Better for Couples?

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

San Diego has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. For adventurous couples, there are many outdoor activities that you can enjoy together. The beaches offer a great playground for adults who enjoy the water and warm weather. There are also restaurants and a great nightlife in San Diego.

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 San Diego Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

San Diego is a nice place to visit for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Minneapolis is lacking in good options for backpackers.

It's common for backpackers to visit San Diego. Backpackers will enjoy the young vibe of the city. There are a few great hostels near the beach or in town.

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 San Diego Better for Students?

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

San Diego is a great destination for students. With its young population and many universities, international students will feel right at home in San Diego. There are also many great outdoor activities for the adventurous.

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

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

While Minneapolis offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There are buses, light rail, and commuter trains that stop at many of the major entertainment centers around town.

Public transit is generally limited in San Diego. The city has a trolley (light rail system) as well as a bus system. Most people depend on cars to get around, and you'll likely enjoy your trip a bit more if you have your own vehicle.

Is Minneapolis or San Diego a more walkable city?

Minneapolis and San Diego are notable when it comes to walkability.

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

San Diego is a somewhat walkable city. The downtown area is walkable, but if you want to travel further, you'll need to find a different form of transportation.

For even more information, also check out Is Minneapolis Worth Visiting? and Is San Diego Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in San Diego or Minneapolis?

How long in Minneapolis or San Diego?

In either Minneapolis or San Diego, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in San Diego than Minneapolis because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Minneapolis, and 3-5 days is enough time in San Diego.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in San Diego 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 San Diego.

One day in Minneapolis or San Diego?

You'll find shopping and museums around the city of Minneapolis. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Visitors enjoy the nightlife and live music when visiting the relaxed coastal city of San Diego. It's also a great beach destination, too. Most people visit for the beaches. 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 San Diego?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the dynamic destination of Minneapolis. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Visitors enjoy the live music and food when visiting the fun-filled destination of San Diego. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. This coastal 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 San Diego?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the dynamic city of Minneapolis. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Most people head to the area for the shopping. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Visitors enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling when visiting the outdoorsy coastal city of San Diego. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. 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 San Diego?

Minneapolis is a popular choice for travelers. One week 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. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Many people enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping when visiting San Diego. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Most people come for the beaches. Most people visit for the beaches. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

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 comparing the travel costs between Minneapolis and San Diego, we can see that Minneapolis 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 Minneapolis Expensive? and Is San Diego Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Minneapolis or San Diego?

San Diego has a larger population, and is about 3 times larger than the population of Minneapolis. When comparing the sizes of Minneapolis and San Diego, 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 San Diego?

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 San Diego in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Minneapolis and San Diego. Many travelers come to Minneapolis for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to San Diego in the summer for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

Minneapolis is a little warmer than San Diego in the summer. The daily temperature in Minneapolis averages around 76°F (25°C) in July, and San Diego fluctuates around 71°F (22°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in San Diego this time of the year. In Minneapolis, it's very sunny this time of the year. Minneapolis usually receives more sunshine than San Diego during summer. Minneapolis gets 357 hours of sunny skies, while San Diego receives 306 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Minneapolis usually receives more rain than San Diego. Minneapolis gets 3.4 inches (86 mm) of rain, while San Diego receives 0 inches (1 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Minneapolis or San Diego in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Minneapolis as well as San Diego. Many visitors come to Minneapolis in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene. Also, most visitors come to San Diego for the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

In the autumn, Minneapolis is much colder than San Diego. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Minneapolis in October average around 52°F (11°C), and San Diego averages at about 68°F (20°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in San Diego. In the autumn, Minneapolis often gets less sunshine than San Diego. Minneapolis gets 178 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while San Diego receives 244 hours of full sun.

Minneapolis usually gets more rain in October than San Diego. Minneapolis gets 1.8 inches (45 mm) of rain, while San Diego receives 0.4 inches (9 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Minneapolis or San Diego in the Winter?

Both San Diego and Minneapolis are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Minneapolis for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to San Diego because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Minneapolis can be very cold during winter. In January, Minneapolis is generally much colder than San Diego. Daily temperatures in Minneapolis average around 15°F (-10°C), and San Diego fluctuates around 57°F (14°C).

It's quite sunny in San Diego. Minneapolis usually receives less sunshine than San Diego during winter. Minneapolis gets 157 hours of sunny skies, while San Diego receives 239 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Minneapolis usually receives less rain than San Diego. Minneapolis gets 0.9 inches (22 mm) of rain, while San Diego receives 1.8 inches (46 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Minneapolis or San Diego in the Spring?

Both San Diego and Minneapolis during the spring are popular places to visit. The spring months attract visitors to Minneapolis because of the activities around the city. Furthermore, the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty are the main draw to San Diego this time of year.

Minneapolis is much colder than San Diego in the spring. The daily temperature in Minneapolis averages around 49°F (10°C) in April, and San Diego fluctuates around 62°F (17°C).

In San Diego, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Minneapolis. In the spring, Minneapolis often gets less sunshine than San Diego. Minneapolis gets 244 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while San Diego receives 277 hours of full sun.

Minneapolis usually gets more rain in April than San Diego. Minneapolis gets 2.1 inches (53 mm) of rain, while San Diego receives 0.8 inches (20 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for San Diego and Minneapolis