A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America New Orleans vs. Hood River for Food, Nightlife, Families, and Couples

Should you visit New Orleans or Hood River?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between New Orleans and Hood River can help. It includes a travel cost comparison in addition to other factors. For many travelers, the cost of a destination is a primary consideration when choosing where to go.

New Orleans

New Orleans is a energetic, fun-filled, and festive city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. This destination also has one of those special and quaint feelings. Visitors also love the live music, food, and nightlife.

Hood River

Hood River is a agricultural, quaint, and scenic town. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Other reasons to visit include skiing, nightlife, and food.

New Orleans and Hood River: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in New Orleans or Hood River?

Travelers will usually find more to do in New Orleans. Although New Orleans and Hood River are popular destinations, New Orleans has more sights and attractions for tourists. New Orleans is very popular for its food, nightlife, music, historical sights, big city activities, and quaint atmosphere, while Hood River attracts visitors for its skiing, museums, hiking, shopping, and impressive beauty. New Orleans is more touristy than Hood River and is known for its jazz festivals, local cuisine, quaint balconies, and world class Mardi Gras parties. It is also well known for The French Quarter. Hood River is famous for its waterfalls, wineries, and impressive mountains.

The French Quarter

How is New Orleans different from Hood River?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is New Orleans or Hood River Better for Skiing?

Hood River is a town with good options for skiing and snowboarding. However, New Orleans is not a skiing destination.

Hood River is a great destination for skiing with plenty areas to explore. During the winter months, Hood River makes a nice base for nearby skiing. Timberline and Cooper Spur and both less than an hour away and offer great skiing opportunities.

New Orleans is not a skiing destination.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in New Orleans or Hood River?

Hood River is a decent place to visit for its museums and history. However, New Orleans does not have museums and landmarks.

While most people don't head to Hood River specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. There are a couple of interesting museums in town such as the Western Antique Aeroplane and Automoblie Museum, the History Museum, and 301 Gallery.

New Orleans does not have museums and landmarks.

Is the Food Better in New Orleans or Hood River? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

New Orleans is an unbeatable place for its restaurants. Also, Hood River is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

For foodies, New Orleans is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. It has rapidly grown into one of the United State's most well known foodie destinations. It's the birthplace of bananas foster and popular for it's gumbo, crawfish etouffee, jambalaya, and red beans and rice. While there are a number of celebrity chefs from New Orleans, you'll also find many local restaurants that aren't as well known but are equally worth visiting.

Dining out in Hood River is an experience not to be missed. Head to the downtown or waterfront areas for the best selection of restaurants. Most restaurants pride themselves on using local ingredients and supporting local farms. Dishes use fresh and healthy ingredients that make simple but high quality meals.

Is New Orleans or Hood River Better for Nightlife?

New Orleans is an unbeatable place for nightlife and partying. Also, Hood River is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its evening party scene.

The nightlife in New Orleans is well established with world renowned clubs and venues. The nightlife scene is at its best during Mardi Gras. But year-round you'll find Bachelor and Bachelorette parties, spring breakers, and anyone who wants to enjoy a crazy time heads to New Orleans. New Orleans is a destination that attracts partiers any time of the year, and the French Quarter is the place to be if you're looking for a party.

Hood River has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. There are breweries, wineries, and local bars in the area that offer a laid back place where you can enjoy the local atmosphere.

Is New Orleans or Hood River Better for Music?

New Orleans is an unbeatable place for its live music scene. However, Hood River is not a live music destination.

With so many music venues, you're guaranteed a show any night of the week in New Orleans. The city is known for its music festivals that feature jazz, blues, and many other types of live music. The Jazz Festival is a great time to visit.

Hood River is not a live music destination.

Is New Orleans or Hood River Better for its Old Town?

New Orleans is a very popular place for its old town. However, Hood River does not have a historic old town.

Many visitors explore the old town while visiting New Orleans. The French Quarter is filled with old architecture and beautiful historic landmarks.

Hood River does not have a historic old town.

Is New Orleans or Hood River Better for Hiking?

Hood River is an excellent place to visit for its hiking trails. However, New Orleans is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors explore the nearby hiking trails while visiting Hood River. There's a diversity of landscapes in the area that include waterfalls, agriculture, vineyards, and high-reaching mountain peaks. The best way to experience these is through the many hiking trails. Drive along the Historic Columbia River Highway and stop off at the trails that lead to the waterfalls, or head south of town to explore the vineyards on foot, and to the north where you'll find mountain peaks.

New Orleans is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in New Orleans or Hood River?

Hood River is a town with good options for shopping. However, New Orleans is lacking in options for its shopping opportunities.

Plenty of visitors enjoy shopping while in Hood River. Local shops sell local produce, artisan crafts, and wine. There are boutiques and independent vendors that are fun to visit and many visitors enjoy spending an afternoon shopping.

If you're looking to go shopping, New Orleans has some nice offerings. New Orleans shopping is mostly centered around shopping malls and chain stores.

Is New Orleans or Hood River Better for Families?

Hood River is an excellent place to visit for its kid-friendly activities. However, New Orleans is lacking in options for its family-friendly activities.

Hood River is a very family-friendly destination. The area is filled with outdoor adventures that the whole family can enjoy. There's swimming, tubing, hiking, and even windsurfing. Make sure you check out the Waterfront Park and Powerdale Substation.

New Orleans doesn't usually come to mind when thinking about kid-friendly destinations. While there are some family-friendly activities in New Orleans like a zoo and several great parks, the city is more known for its parties and nightlife scene. Particularly during certain seasons, most people choose to visit New Orleans without kids.

Is New Orleans or Hood River Better for Couples?

Hood River is an excellent place to visit for romance. Also, New Orleans is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its romantic activities.

Hood River makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Couples will enjoy the scenic natural setting and charming hotels and bed and breakfasts in the area. There are romantic hikes, local wineries, and many great restaurants that you can try.

New Orleans makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Couples who enjoy a lively evening, fun festivals, and exploring absolutely amazing restaurants will enjoy a visit to New Orleans. It has a festive and unique atmosphere any time of the year. There are also nice hotels and beautiful parks.

Is New Orleans or Hood River Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Hood River is an excellent place to visit for backpackers and budget travelers. However, New Orleans is lacking in options for backpackers.

Hood River is very popular with the backpacker crowd. There are a couple of hostels and some nice campgrounds in the area as well as many great hikes and a laid back atmosphere that backpackers appreciate.

New Orleans is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. There are a handful of hostels in New Orleans that are good options for backpackers who want to meet other travelers.

Is New Orleans or Hood River Better for Students?

New Orleans is a popular place for its student-friendly activities. However, Hood River is not popular with students.

Plenty of students visit New Orleans. Students head to New Orleans to enjoy spring break and Mardi Gras.

Hood River is not popular with students.

Is New Orleans or Hood River Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Visitors will find reasonable public transit in both New Orleans and Hood River.

Public transit is mostly limited in New Orleans. The city has streetcar lines and bus lines that you can use, but you'll want to have a car if you want to venture outside of these main areas.

Public transit is generally limited in Hood River. There are buses in the area but you really need your own transportation to see the region efficiently.

Is New Orleans or Hood River a more walkable city?

New Orleans is a popular place for its high level of walkability. However, Hood River is lacking in good options for its ease of walking around.

New Orleans is a somewhat walkable place. If you stick to the French Quarter and downtown areas, most things are walkable in New Orleans.

Hood River is generally not very walkable. While there are parts of the town that are walkable, if you don't have a car you'll miss out on the surrounding natural landscapes and most of the hiking opportunities.

For even more information, also check out Is New Orleans Worth Visiting? and Is Hood River Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Hood River or New Orleans?

How long in New Orleans or Hood River?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both New Orleans and Hood River. In our opinion, Hood River has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Hood River than New Orleans. However, 2-3 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Hood River than New Orleans 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 Hood River.

One day in New Orleans or Hood River?

With food and nightlife around the vibrant city of New Orleans, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. 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 one day exploring.

Visitors enjoy the skiing and nightlife when visiting the quaint town of Hood River. Hikers are also drawn to this area. 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 New Orleans or Hood River?

With nightlife and live music around the destination of New Orleans, there's plenty to do. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. It offers something for everyone. Many people spend a weekend here. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this city.

Visitors enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the charming destination of Hood River. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. This town offers something for everyone. Plenty of people spend a weekend in the area when traveling. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

Five days in New Orleans or Hood River?

New Orleans, a popular city, is full of activities for travelers. Visiting the old town is also a must. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

The charming town of Hood River offers food and shopping. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

A week in New Orleans or Hood River?

New Orleans is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Many people enjoy the shopping and skiing when visiting Hood River. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Adventure Tours to United States of America, The Best Train & Rail Tours in United States of America, The Best Sightseeing Tours in United States of America, and The Best Cruise Tours and Packages in United States of America.

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

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

Which is Bigger, New Orleans or Hood River?

New Orleans has a larger population, and is about 80 times larger than the population of Hood River. When comparing the sizes of New Orleans and Hood River, 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 Orleans or Hood River?

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 Orleans or Hood River in the Summer?

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

In the summer, New Orleans is a little warmer than Hood River. Typically, the summer temperatures in New Orleans in July average around 82°F (28°C), and Hood River averages at about 68°F (20°C).

It's quite sunny in Hood River. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in New Orleans. New Orleans usually receives less sunshine than Hood River during summer. New Orleans gets 264 hours of sunny skies, while Hood River receives 338 hours of full sun in the summer.

It's quite rainy in New Orleans. In July, New Orleans usually receives more rain than Hood River. New Orleans gets 5.9 inches (149 mm) of rain, while Hood River receives 0.7 inches (18 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit New Orleans or Hood River in the Autumn?

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

In October, New Orleans is generally much warmer than Hood River. Daily temperatures in New Orleans average around 69°F (21°C), and Hood River fluctuates around 55°F (13°C).

It's quite sunny in New Orleans. In the autumn, New Orleans often gets more sunshine than Hood River. New Orleans gets 240 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Hood River receives 155 hours of full sun.

New Orleans usually gets more rain in October than Hood River. New Orleans gets 3 inches (77 mm) of rain, while Hood River receives 2.6 inches (67 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit New Orleans or Hood River in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both New Orleans and Hood River. Most visitors come to New Orleans for the shopping scene and the cuisine during these months. Furthermore, the winter months attract visitors to Hood River because of the skiing, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

The weather in Hood River can be very cold. New Orleans is much warmer than Hood River in the winter. The daily temperature in New Orleans averages around 51°F (11°C) in January, and Hood River fluctuates around 40°F (4°C).

New Orleans usually receives more sunshine than Hood River during winter. New Orleans gets 158 hours of sunny skies, while Hood River receives 86 hours of full sun in the winter.

Hood River receives a lot of rain in the winter. New Orleans gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In January, New Orleans usually receives around the same amount of rain as Hood River. New Orleans gets 5.2 inches (131 mm) of rain, while Hood River receives 5.2 inches (132 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit New Orleans or Hood River in the Spring?

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

In the spring, New Orleans is much warmer than Hood River. Typically, the spring temperatures in New Orleans in April average around 68°F (20°C), and Hood River averages at about 51°F (11°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Hood River. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in New Orleans this time of the year. In the spring, New Orleans often gets more sunshine than Hood River. New Orleans gets 254 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Hood River receives 231 hours of full sun.

New Orleans receives a lot of rain in the spring. New Orleans usually gets more rain in April than Hood River. New Orleans gets 4.5 inches (114 mm) of rain, while Hood River receives 2.4 inches (61 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Hood River and New Orleans