A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America New Bern vs. Boston for Attractions, Families, Food, and Nightlife

Should you visit New Bern or Boston?

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

Should I visit New Bern or Boston? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

New Bern

New Bern is a laid back, quaint, and charming town. This is a great small town that is just waiting to be explored. It's also known for food, shopping, and museums.

Boston

Boston is a classic, proud, and loyal city. It's a large city with plenty of activites for visitors as well. It's a gorgeous place to visit. This is a quaint and attractive place to visit, too. It's also known for nightlife, live music, and food.

New Bern and Boston: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in New Bern or Boston?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Boston. Although New Bern and Boston are both popular with visitors, Boston has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Boston is more popular for its museums, theatre productions, food, nightlife, music, beaches, historical sights, christmas markets, big city activities, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere, while New Bern is known for its small town charm. Boston is more touristy than New Bern and is known for its enthusiastic sports fans, influential history, beautiful parks, and world-class universities. It is also home to The Freedom Trail. New Bern is popular for being the birthplace of Pepsi.

How is New Bern different from Boston?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in New Bern or Boston?

Boston is an unbeatable place for its museums and landmarks. Also, New Bern is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historical sights.

Visitors will find world class museums and historical sights in Boston that are not to be missed. The city itself feels like a living museum. It is famous for Faneuil Hall, the Museum of Fine Arts, the Isabelle Stewart Gardner Museum, the USS Constitution, as well as the many sites along the Freedom Trail. There are also many museums on the campuses of the world renowned universities in the city.

New Bern offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. Many visitors check out the Tryon Palace while they're in town. Other museums include the New Bern Fireman's Museum, the Carolina Creations Fine Art & Contemporary Craft Gallery, and the New Bern Academy Museum.

Is New Bern or Boston Better for Theater?

Boston is well known for theatre. However, New Bern is not a theatre destination.

While in town, many visitors enjoy seeing a show in Boston. The city has many historic, beautifully restored theaters where you can enjoy a show. Head to the theater district for some of the most famous venues.

New Bern is not a theatre destination.

Is the Food Better in New Bern or Boston? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Boston is well known for its restaurant scene. Also, New Bern is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Boston makes for a great culinary experience. There are many local dishes that utilize fresh caught seafood and comfort food flavors. The cuisine also takes advantage of the city's Italian and Irish populations. Famous local foods include New England Clam Chowder, lobster rolls, and baked beans. You'll find hearty sandwiches and filling meals that warm your soul.

New Bern has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. There are a number of local eateries, bistros, and cafes in town. You can sample southern favorites or something international. Popular dishes include fresh caught fish, crab cakes, and even tacos.

Is New Bern or Boston Better for Nightlife?

Boston is well known for nightlife. However, New Bern is not particularly known for nightlife and partying.

Boston is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. The city is known for its breweries, craft beer, and vibrant university neighborhoods. It also hosts regular outdoor movies and world class sporting events. The nightlife scene is varied, with some areas catering to the student population and other areas focused on the professional or sport-loving crowds.

New Bern doesn't have the most active nightlife scene. There are a couple of pubs and breweries around town.

Is New Bern or Boston Better for Music?

Boston is a popular place for live music. However, New Bern is not a live music destination.

The music scene in Boston is active and vibrant. Popular music venues include Lizard Lounge, Blue Hills Bank Pavilion, and The Middle East.

New Bern is not a live music destination.

Is New Bern or Boston Better for Beaches?

Boston is a city with a few options for its beaches. However, New Bern is not a beach destination.

Boston is a good spot to see the beach. There are a few urban beaches in the greater Boston area that you can explore on a nice day.

New Bern is not a beach destination.

Is New Bern or Boston Better for its Old Town?

Boston is an unbeatable place for its historic old town. However, New Bern does not have a historic old town.

With a famous historical old-town, Boston offers plenty to see. Boston is famous for its Freedom Trail, which takes visitors around the city's rich history. The oldest parts of the city are known as Boston Proper and include the neighborhoods of Beacon Hill, Historic Downtown, the North End, and the West End.

New Bern does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in New Bern or Boston?

Shopping is a popular activity in both Boston and New Bern.

New Bern is a great destination for shopping. There are local shops and boutiques that sell clothing, antiques, and gifts.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Boston. Head to Back Bay for some of the best high end shops. There are luxury brands and boutique venues that sell local art or crafts.

Is New Bern or Boston Better for Christmas?

Boston is well known for its Christmas activities. However, New Bern does not offer Christmas activities.

Visitors come from all around to experience the Christmas activities in Boston. Christmas comes to life in the city with its Christmas Trees, holiday shows, and festivals.

New Bern does not offer Christmas activities.

Is New Bern or Boston Better for Christmas Markets?

Boston is well known for its Christmas markets. However, New Bern does not offer Christmas markets.

Boston has a large number of Christmas markets. There are a number of European style Christmas markets that pop up during the holiday season around town.

New Bern does not offer Christmas markets.

Is New Bern or Boston Better for Families?

Boston is an unbeatable place for its family-friendly activities. However, New Bern is not particularly known for its kid-friendly activities.

As it has a large number of activities for kids, Boston is a very family-friendly destination. It's filled with history, but there are also many activities for kids who need a break from all of the historical stuff. Popular activities for all ages include the Museum of Science, the New England Aquarium, and exploring the waterfront, gardens, and parks around town.

For families, New Bern is not always the best place to visit. Stand up paddle boarding and other outdoor activities are a fun way to experience the area with kids. You could also visit the New Bern Fireman's Museum, the Tryon Palace, or one of the parks around town.

Is New Bern or Boston Better for Couples?

With fun activities for couples, both New Bern and Boston make for a good place to visit.

New Bern is a nice destination for couples. The town's charm and quaint parks make this a nice weekend getaway. There are outdoor activities and the Tryon Palace which is nice to visit. There are also local restaurants around town.

Boston makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Couples who enjoy history will enjoy exploring the city. Take a swan boat ride in the Public Garden and wander the unique route along the Freedom Trail. There are also many sporting and entertainment options around town.

Is New Bern or Boston Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Boston is a popular place for backpackers. However, New Bern is not particularly known for backpackers and budget travelers.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Boston. Like most larger American cities, the city has a handful of hostels to choose from.

New Bern is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. It's not popular with backpackers in part because it's a small town that most people breeze through on their way to the beach.

Is New Bern or Boston Better for Students?

Boston is an unbeatable place for students. However, New Bern is not popular with students.

Many students frequent Boston. It is a city of students, with a number of world renowned universities located here including Harvard University, Boston College, and MIT. Many neighborhoods are filled with students and there are many student-centered activities around town including festivals and an active nightlife scene.

New Bern is not popular with students.

Is New Bern or Boston Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Boston is an unbeatable place for its public transit. However, New Bern is not particularly known for times when you don't have a car.

Visitors in Boston can get around quickly with the extensive public transit system. There's the T, which is the subway, as well as a trolley, bus, and water transportation system.

Public transit is quite limited in New Bern. There's no real public transit in the area.

Is New Bern or Boston a more walkable city?

Boston is an unbeatable place for its walkability. Also, New Bern is still popular, but not quite as popular for its high level of walkability.

Getting around Boston on foot is easy. The many parks and compact neighborhoods are best explored on foot.

New Bern is a somewhat walkable place. The downtown area is walkable and nice to explore on foot.

For even more information, also check out Is New Bern Worth Visiting? and Is Boston Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Boston or New Bern?

How long in New Bern or Boston?

In either New Bern or Boston, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Boston than New Bern because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 1-2 days is a good amount of time for New Bern, and 3-5 days is enough time in Boston.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Boston than New Bern 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 Boston.

One day in New Bern or Boston?

New Bern might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. One day is often enough time to do most activities.

Boston is a big city with plenty to do. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

A weekend in New Bern or Boston?

New Bern is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Boston is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in New Bern or Boston?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in New Bern. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Boston is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. It's no surprise that museums is why people visit. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Boston, five days is sufficent for most. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A week in New Bern or Boston?

New Bern is a small town, so it's a great destination if you're short on time. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

Boston is a great place to explore. It's no surprise that museums is why people visit. Visiting the old town is also a must. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This city offers something for everyone.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 2-Week Tours in United States of America, The Best 3-Week Tours in United States of America, The Best Bicycle Tours in United States of America, and Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in United States of America.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between New Bern and Boston, we can see that Boston is more expensive. And not only is New Bern much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to New Bern would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in New Bern 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 Boston would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Boston than you might in New Bern.

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

Which is Bigger, New Bern or Boston?

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

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 New Bern or Boston in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both New Bern and Boston. Most visitors come to New Bern for the small town charm and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Boston because of the beaches, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

New Bern is a little warmer than Boston in the summer. The daily temperature in New Bern averages around 80°F (27°C) in July, and Boston fluctuates around 73°F (23°C).

New Bern gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In July, New Bern usually receives more rain than Boston. New Bern gets 6.6 inches (169 mm) of rain, while Boston receives 2.9 inches (74 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit New Bern or Boston in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to New Bern as well as Boston. The autumn months attract visitors to New Bern because of the shopping scene and the small town atmosphere. Also, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Boston this time of year.

In the autumn, New Bern is a little warmer than Boston. Typically, the autumn temperatures in New Bern in October average around 65°F (18°C), and Boston averages at about 54°F (12°C).

New Bern usually gets around the same amount of rain in October as Boston. New Bern gets 3.4 inches (85 mm) of rain, while Boston receives 3.3 inches (84 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit New Bern or Boston in the Winter?

Both Boston and New Bern are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to New Bern this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Boston for the museums, the Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Boston. In January, New Bern is generally much warmer than Boston. Daily temperatures in New Bern average around 44°F (7°C), and Boston fluctuates around 29°F (-2°C).

It's quite rainy in New Bern. In January, New Bern usually receives more rain than Boston. New Bern gets 4.1 inches (105 mm) of rain, while Boston receives 3.4 inches (87 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit New Bern or Boston in the Spring?

Both Boston and New Bern during the spring are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to New Bern for the small town charm. Furthermore, many visitors come to Boston in the spring for the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty.

New Bern is much warmer than Boston in the spring. The daily temperature in New Bern averages around 62°F (16°C) in April, and Boston fluctuates around 48°F (9°C).

New Bern usually gets less rain in April than Boston. New Bern gets 2.9 inches (74 mm) of rain, while Boston receives 3.5 inches (89 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Boston and New Bern