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

Should you visit Nantucket or Newport?

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 Nantucket and Newport can help you decide which place is right for you.

Nantucket

Nantucket is a serene, peaceful, and upscale island. It offers plenty of small town charm along with sights and activities, too. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food.

Newport

Newport is a charming, coastal, and seaside town. With fun activities and sights, this is a small town worth visiting. It's a gorgeous place to visit. Other reasons to visit include shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Nantucket and Newport: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Nantucket or Newport?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Nantucket than Newport, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Nantucket is better known for its food, resorts, hiking, small town charm, and impressive beauty, while Newport is more popular for its museums. Nantucket is well known for its pristine beaches, upscale atmosphere, and history of whaling. Also, Nantucket is famous for Great Point Lighthouse. Newport is well known for its sailing regattas, its mansions along Bellevue Avenue, and its maritime history.

How is Nantucket different from Newport?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Nantucket or Newport?

Newport is a great town for its historical sights. Also, Nantucket is not as popular, but is still a nice island for its sights and museums.

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

Nantucket offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. There are several museums around town that educate visitors on the island's whaling history and maritime past.

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

Nantucket is terrific for its restaurants. Also, Newport is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

Nantucket has long been recognized as a culinary destination with great restaurants. Upscale eateries where you can look out on the water make dining on this island a true experience. There are raw bars, seafood restaurants, and local cafes with elaborate salads and duck carnitas. Dishes usually use the highest quality fresh ingredients and chefs bring their "A game" with every customer.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Newport makes for a great culinary experience. 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 Nantucket or Newport Better for Nightlife?

If the nightlife is your priority, you'll find notable options in both Nantucket and Newport.

If you're looking for night time activities Nantucket has a few options to choose from. You'll find a number of bars and a lively singles scene in town. There's also live music and a laid back but active atmosphere in the evening.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Newport. There's a lively atmosphere in the evening with many pubs, taverns, and bars that keep the energy high.

Is Nantucket or Newport Better for Resorts?

Nantucket is a very popular place for its luxury resorts. However, Newport is not a resort destination.

Vacationers can choose from a number of terrific resorts in Nantucket. Luxury resorts and upscale inns offer guests a relaxed setting with oceanfront views and family-friendly activities.

Newport is not a resort destination.

Is Nantucket or Newport Better for Beaches?

Nantucket and Newport are very good choices for a beach vacation.

Nantucket is a very popular place to visit for its beaches. You'll find the calmest water at the northern beaches, and cooler water with rougher surf to the south. Many of the beaches are accessible from town, but parking can be limited. There are both public and private beaches, each with beautiful settings and relaxing vibes.

You'll have a great beach vacation in Newport. 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.

Is Nantucket or Newport Better for its Old Town?

Nantucket and Newport are both popular destinations with charming historical areas.

There is a nice variety of sights in the old town of Nantucket. The Historic District is filled with New England charm, cobblestone streets, and upscale boutiques. There are many great restaurants and a lot of historic character.

Many visitors go to Newport to see the historical old town. 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.

Is Nantucket or Newport Better for Hiking?

Nantucket is a very popular place for its hiking trails. However, Newport is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors explore the nearby hiking trails while visiting Nantucket. The island is easy to explore on foot, and its covered with hiking trails that follow the serene coastline or take you through forests, bogs, and marshland.

Newport is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Nantucket or Newport?

If you're looking to go shopping, Nantucket and Newport both offer plenty of very good spots.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Nantucket. The Historic District is filled with boutiques, art galleries, and upscale shops. It's the perfect place to spend an afternoon wandering around and shopping.

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.

Is Nantucket or Newport Better for Families?

You'll find very good kid-friendly activities in either Nantucket or Newport.

Nantucket is a very family-friendly destination. There's a calm beach that's perfect for kids as well as quaint ice cream shops and plenty of New England charm. The town is also filled with hiking and biking trails.

Newport is a very kid-friendly island. 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 Nantucket or Newport Better for Couples?

Both Nantucket and Newport are fantastic destinations to visit as a couple.

For those traveling as a couple, Nantucket has plenty to offer. The New England charm, natural beauty, and relaxing coastal atmosphere make this a perfect romantic destination. There are also many romantic places to stay and great local restaurants.

Newport has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. 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.

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

Nantucket and Newport both offer notable public transit to get you around.

While Nantucket offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There are shuttle buses around the island that operate with greater frequency during the summer months.

Newport has a few public transit options. 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.

Is Nantucket or Newport a more walkable city?

Nantucket and Newport are very good when it comes to walkability.

Nantucket is very walkable. The town is very walkable and parking can be challenging, so it's best to leave your car in the ferry parking lot.

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

For even more information, also check out Is Nantucket Worth Visiting? and Is Newport Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Newport or Nantucket?

How long in Nantucket or Newport?

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

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

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

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

One day in Nantucket or Newport?

Nantucket is a small town with plenty to do. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. One reason most visitors come is for the food. This island offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

You'll find shopping and museums around the town of Newport. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. 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.

A weekend in Nantucket or Newport?

Nantucket might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. 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. One reason most visitors come is for the food. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Nantucket has to offer.

You'll find museums and nightlife around the historical destination of Newport. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this town has to offer. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Five days in Nantucket or Newport?

Nantucket 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.

You'll find nightlife and food around the historical town of Newport. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this town makes for a great vacation. It's also a great beach destination, too. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this town has to offer.

A week in Nantucket or Newport?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Nantucket. Since Nantucket is a small town, it's easily explored when your time is limited. One reason most visitors come is for the food. It's also a relaxing resort destination. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

Newport is a popular choice for travelers. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. 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.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Family-Friendly Tours to United States of America, The Best Wildlife Tours to United States of America, The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in United States of America, and The Best Historical Tours in United States of America.

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

Which is Bigger, Nantucket or Newport?

Newport has a larger population, and is about 75% larger than the population of Nantucket. When comparing the sizes of Nantucket 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 Nantucket or Newport?

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 Nantucket or Newport in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Nantucket and Newport. The summer months attract visitors to Nantucket because of the beaches, the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, the beaches, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Newport this time of year.

In July, Nantucket is generally cooler than Newport. Daily temperatures in Nantucket average around 68°F (20°C), and Newport fluctuates around 73°F (23°C).

In July, Nantucket usually receives more rain than Newport. Nantucket gets 3.8 inches (96 mm) of rain, while Newport receives 2.8 inches (72 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Nantucket or Newport in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Nantucket as well as Newport. The hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Nantucket this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Newport for the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area.

Nantucket is around the same temperature as Newport in the autumn. The daily temperature in Nantucket averages around 53°F (12°C) in October, and Newport fluctuates around 53°F (12°C).

Nantucket receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Nantucket usually gets more rain in October than Newport. Nantucket gets 4.4 inches (111 mm) of rain, while Newport receives 3.3 inches (83 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Nantucket or Newport in the Winter?

Both Newport and Nantucket are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Nantucket for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Newport in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Newport can get quite cold in the winter. Be prepared for some very cold days in Nantucket. In the winter, Nantucket is much warmer than Newport. Typically, the winter temperatures in Nantucket in January average around 31°F (-0°C), and Newport averages at about 28°F (-2°C).

It's quite rainy in Nantucket. In January, Nantucket usually receives more rain than Newport. Nantucket gets 4.2 inches (106 mm) of rain, while Newport receives 3.5 inches (89 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Nantucket or Newport in the Spring?

Both Newport and Nantucket during the spring are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Nantucket in the spring for the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty. Furthermore, most visitors come to Newport for the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty during these months.

In April, Nantucket is generally cooler than Newport. Daily temperatures in Nantucket average around 45°F (7°C), and Newport fluctuates around 48°F (9°C).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Nantucket. Nantucket usually gets more rain in April than Newport. Nantucket gets 4.1 inches (103 mm) of rain, while Newport receives 3.7 inches (94 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Newport and Nantucket