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

Should you visit Newport or Phoenix?

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

Newport

Newport is a charming, coastal, and seaside town. With fun activities and sights, this is a small town worth visiting. It offers plenty of beauty for visitors. It's also popular because of the nightlife, food, and beaches.

Phoenix

Phoenix is a laid back, sprawling, and desert city. It's also popular because of the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Newport and Phoenix: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Popular beach
  • Scenic old town
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Very walkable
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with backpackers
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with couples
  • Less popular with backpackers
  • Less walkable


Is there more to do in Newport or Phoenix?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Newport. Although Newport and Phoenix are popular destinations, Newport has more sights and attractions for tourists. Newport is very popular for its museums, food, beaches, historical sights, shopping, small town charm, and impressive beauty, while Phoenix attracts visitors for its hiking. Newport is more touristy than Phoenix and is known for its sailing regattas, its mansions along Bellevue Avenue, and its maritime history. It is also well known for Thames Street. Phoenix is famous for its desert landscapes, high number of golf courses, and year round warm weather.

How is Newport different from Phoenix?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Newport
Phoenix

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

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into Newport. 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.

Phoenix is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. You'll find art, science, and cultural museums around town. Favorites include the Heard Museum, the Phoenix Art Museum, S'edav Va'aki Museum, and the Arizona Science Museum.


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

Newport
Phoenix

Newport is a great town for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Phoenix is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Newport has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. 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.

Phoenix offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. There are many mom-and-pop shops around town that serve everything from casual meals to quality steaks. There's also a huge selection of Mexican restaurants, as well as other international options such as sushi, dim sum, and Italian.

Is Newport or Phoenix Better for Nightlife?

Newport
Phoenix

The nice nightlife scene is relatively similar in Newport and Phoenix.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Newport. There's a lively atmosphere in the evening with many pubs, taverns, and bars that keep the energy high.

Phoenix has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. The best nightlife scene is found in downtown and central Phoenix. There are bars, restaurants, and venues where you can catch a show. North Phoenix also has grown into a popular evening spot with cocktail bars and pubs.

Is Newport or Phoenix Better for Beaches?

Newport
Phoenix

Newport is a great town for the beach. However, Phoenix is not a beach destination.

The beaches at Newport attract visitors from all over. 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.

Phoenix is not a beach destination.


Is Newport or Phoenix Better for its Old Town?

Newport
Phoenix

Newport is a great town for its historic old town charm. However, Phoenix does not have a historic old town.

Newport is an extremely popular place to visit the historic old town area. 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.

Phoenix does not have a historic old town.

Is Newport or Phoenix Better for Hiking?

Newport
Phoenix

Phoenix is very good for its hiking trails. However, Newport is not a hiking destination.

Many people include a hike when visiting Phoenix. You don't have to head far out of town for impressive hiking opportunities. You'll find trails that range from easy to challenging, and many pass through other-worldly landscapes. You'll find popular trails in Usery Mountain Regional Park, Papago Park, White Tank Mountain Regional Park, South Mountain Park and many others.

Newport is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Newport or Phoenix?

Newport
Phoenix

Newport is a great town for its shopping areas. Also, Phoenix is not as popular, but is still a nice city for shopping.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in Newport. Walk along the charming cobblestone streets and pop in the many local boutiques and shops.

Phoenix is a great destination for shopping. There are plenty of shopping centers, outlets, and malls where you'll find the standard chain stores. You'll also find farmer's markets around town.


Is Newport or Phoenix Better for Families?

Newport
Phoenix

Newport is a great town for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Phoenix is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its family-friendly activities.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Newport. 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.

Phoenix is a family-friendly place to visit. Kids will love the Phoenix Zoo, the Arizona Science Center, the SEA LIFE Arizona Aquarium, and the Bearizona Wildlife Park. There's also a number of parks and gardens as well as a children's museum and several other interactive museums for kids.

Is Newport or Phoenix Better for Couples?

Newport
Phoenix

Newport is an unbeatable place for couples. Also, Phoenix is not as popular, but is still a nice city for romance.

Newport is a great town for couples, as it has plenty to offer. 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.

Phoenix is a nice destination for couples. There are many parks and gardens in town as well as beautiful hikes and outdoor activities that couples will enjoy. In the evening, there's theater, shows, and many romantic restaurants.

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

Newport
Phoenix

Newport is a town with good options for times when you don't have a car. However, Phoenix is not known for its public transit.

While Newport offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. 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.

Public transit is generally limited in Phoenix. There's a bus and light rail system, but you really need your own vehicle to get around.


Is Newport or Phoenix a more walkable city?

Newport
Phoenix

Newport is a great town for its ease of walking around. However, Phoenix is not known for its walkability.

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

Phoenix is generally not very walkable. It's a sprawling city and the only real area that's walkable is the downtown.

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

Should I spend more time in Phoenix or Newport?

How long in Newport or Phoenix?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Newport and Phoenix. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Newport than in Phoenix. Usually, 2-5 days is a good amount of time for Newport, and 1-3 days is enough time in Phoenix.

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

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

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


  • How many days in Newport or Phoenix? Ideal Length of Stay
    Newport 2-5 
    Phoenix 1-3

One day in Newport or Phoenix?

In Newport, you'll find nightlife and food. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. This town offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

In Phoenix, you'll find nightlife and food. This city offers something for everyone. This would be the perfect place to spend one day, as it has just the right amount of activities.

A weekend in Newport or Phoenix?

In Newport, you'll find food and shopping. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Visiting the old town is also a must. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Newport has to offer.

In Phoenix, you'll find food and shopping. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Phoenix has to offer.


Five days in Newport or Phoenix?

Newport is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Newport has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

Phoenix is a great place to explore. 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.

A week in Newport or Phoenix?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Newport. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Newport. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Phoenix. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Phoenix. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Historical Tours in United States of America, The Best 10-Day Tours in United States of America, The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in United States of America, and The Best 2-Week Tours in United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Phoenix or Newport?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Newport is $159, while the average daily cost in Phoenix is $238. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Newport and Phoenix in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Newport $92
    Phoenix $144
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Newport $184
    Phoenix $288
Compare Hotels in Newport and Phoenix

Looking for a hotel in Newport or Phoenix? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Newport


Hotels in Phoenix


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Newport Hotel Prices and Phoenix Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Newport $36
    Phoenix $39

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Newport

Also for Newport, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Private Transfer from Newport Port to Boston Logan Airport (BOS) : $88
  • Private Transfer from Newport Cruise Port to Boston city hotels: $88
  • Private Transfer from Newport Port to Providence city Hotels: $61
  • Private Transfer from Newport Port to Providence Airport (PVD): $49

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Phoenix

Also for Phoenix, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Private Transfer from Sky Harbor Airport PHX to Phoenix in Luxury SUV: $104
  • Private Transfer from Sky Harbor Airport PHX to Phoenix in Business Car: $90
  • Private Transfer from Phoenix to Sky Harbor Airport PHX in Luxury SUV: $104
  • Private Transfer From Hotels To Phoenix Sky Harbor Airport PHX : $41
  • One-Way Transfer Sky Harbor Airport to Phoenix: $104
  • Phoenix Sky Harbor Airport (PHX) to Phoenix - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $116
  • Phoenix International Airport (PHX) - Private transfer From/to Hotels: $118
  • Departure Private Transfer: Phoenix to Sky Harbor Airport PHX in Luxury Van: $140
  • Departure Private Transfer: Phoenix to Sky Harbor Airport PHX in Luxury SUV: $104
  • Departure Private Transfer: Phoenix to Sky Harbor Airport PHX in Business Car: $90
  • Departure Private Transfer Phoenix City to Phoenix Airport PHX : $110
  • Arrival Private Transfer: Sky Harbor Airport PHX to Phoenix in Luxury SUV: $104

Is it cheaper to fly into Newport or Phoenix?

Prices for flights to both Phoenix and Newport change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    Newport $45
    Phoenix $52

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Newport

For Newport, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Newport Neighborhood Food Tour: $89

Typical Food Prices in Phoenix

Here are some examples of typical meal expenses from previous travelers to Phoenix:


  • Nice Lunch (for 2)
    $36
  • Indian Food Dinner (for 2)
    $32

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Phoenix

For Phoenix, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Awesome French Crêpes Cooking Class: $75
  • Old Town Scottsdale Food Tour: $92
  • Downtown Phoenix Food Tour: $92
  • Scottsdale Waterfront Food Tour: $95
  • Quiche Lorraine French Cooking Class in Scottsdale: $129

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Newport $17
    Phoenix $40

Tours and Activities in Newport

For Newport, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • Newport Ghosts: Seaside Hauntings and Hags Tour: $27
  • Afternoon Grand Tour | Gansett Cruises in Newport, RI: $38
  • Discover Newport's Grandeur: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $11
  • Downtown Westerly Ghost Tour: $30
  • Evening Voyage with Gansett Cruises in Newport, RI: $45
  • Historic Highlights with the Gilded Age Private Van Tour: $225
  • Lighthouse and Mimosa Cruise of Narragansett Bay from Newport: $42
  • Morning Mimosa Cruise with Gansett Cruises in Newport, RI: $38
  • Morning Mimosa Sightseeing Sail on Schooner Madeleine in Newport: $45
  • Newport Afternoon Sightseeing Sail on Classic Sailboat: $45
  • Newport Beach Private Tour & Whale Watching Cruise: $395
  • Newport Cliff Walk & Ocean Drive Self-Guided Tours Bundle: $14

Tours and Activities in Phoenix

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Phoenix.

  • 1.5 Hour Stretch Limo Golf Cart Tour, Ultimate Old Town Exploration: $89
  • 2 Hour Scottsdale Segway Tours - Ultimate Old Town Exploration: $89
  • 2 Hour Segway Tour - Sunsets, Segways & City Lights: $89
  • 2 Hour Sonoran Desert Private Guided Mountain Bike Tour: $115
  • 2-Hour Arizona Desert Guided E-Bike Tour: $135
  • 2.5 Hour FAT Tire E-Bike Tour – Scottsdale Greenbelt Adventure: $100
  • 3 Cities & Nature Tour. Shop, Art, History, Food. Scottsdale, Phoenix, & Tempe.: $168
  • 3 Hour Guided TomCar ATV Tour in Sonoran Desert: $219
  • Adventure Yoga Experience on Camelback Mountain: $75
  • Apache Trail and Dolly Steamboat Van Tour: $160
  • Black Ops Experience: $259
  • Boat Cruise in Lake Pleasant Arizona: $89

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Newport $14
    Phoenix $17

Sample the Local Flavors in Phoenix

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Phoenix:

  • Scottsdale Bar Hunt: Scorching Scottsdale Bar Crawl: $12
  • Pedal Bar Crawl of Old Town Scottsdale: $55
  • Stretch Limo Party Cart - Custom Bar Crawls, Wine Tastings, Night Clubs & More: $155
  • Ghost town of Jerome, Brew and Wine Tour: $215


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


Which is Bigger, Newport or Phoenix?

Phoenix has a larger population, and is about 50 times larger than the population of Newport. When comparing the sizes of Newport and Phoenix, 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 Newport or Phoenix?

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 Newport or Phoenix in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Newport and Phoenix. Many travelers come to Newport for the beaches, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, many visitors come to Phoenix in the summer for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences.

The heat can be very extreme in Phoenix. Newport is much colder than Phoenix in the summer. The daily temperature in Newport averages around 73°F (23°C) in July, and Phoenix fluctuates around 98°F (36°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Phoenix this time of the year. In Newport, it's very sunny this time of the year. Newport usually receives less sunshine than Phoenix during summer. Newport gets 293 hours of sunny skies, while Phoenix receives 380 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Newport usually receives more rain than Phoenix. Newport gets 2.8 inches (72 mm) of rain, while Phoenix receives 0.8 inches (21 mm) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Newport 73°F (23°C) 
    Phoenix 98°F (36°C)

Should I visit Newport or Phoenix in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Newport as well as Phoenix. Many visitors come to Newport in the autumn for the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area. Additionally, most visitors come to Phoenix for the hiking trails and the shopping scene during these months.

In the autumn, Newport is much colder than Phoenix. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Newport in October average around 53°F (12°C), and Phoenix averages at about 79°F (26°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Phoenix. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Newport this time of the year. In the autumn, Newport often gets less sunshine than Phoenix. Newport gets 211 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Phoenix receives 305 hours of full sun.

Newport usually gets more rain in October than Phoenix. Newport gets 3.3 inches (83 mm) of rain, while Phoenix receives 0.7 inches (17 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Newport 53°F (12°C) 
    Phoenix 79°F (26°C)

Should I visit Newport or Phoenix in the Winter?

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

Newport can be very cold during winter. In January, Newport is generally much colder than Phoenix. Daily temperatures in Newport average around 28°F (-2°C), and Phoenix fluctuates around 58°F (14°C).

It's quite sunny in Phoenix. Newport usually receives less sunshine than Phoenix during winter. Newport gets 170 hours of sunny skies, while Phoenix receives 254 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Newport usually receives more rain than Phoenix. Newport gets 3.5 inches (89 mm) of rain, while Phoenix receives 0.7 inches (17 mm) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Newport 28°F (-2°C) 
    Phoenix 58°F (14°C)

Should I visit Newport or Phoenix in the Spring?

Both Phoenix and Newport during the spring are popular places to visit. The spring months attract visitors to Newport because of the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty.

Newport is much colder than Phoenix in the spring. The daily temperature in Newport averages around 48°F (9°C) in April, and Phoenix fluctuates around 74°F (23°C).

In Phoenix, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Newport. In the spring, Newport often gets less sunshine than Phoenix. Newport gets 225 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Phoenix receives 355 hours of full sun.

Newport usually gets more rain in April than Phoenix. Newport gets 3.7 inches (94 mm) of rain, while Phoenix receives 0.2 inches (6 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Newport 48°F (9°C) 
    Phoenix 74°F (23°C)

Typical Weather for Phoenix and Newport

Newport Phoenix
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 28°F (-2°C) 3.5 inches (89 mm) 58°F (14°C) 0.7 inches (17 mm)
Feb 30°F (-1°C) 3.5 inches (88 mm) 62°F (17°C) 0.7 inches (17 mm)
Mar 38°F (3°C) 4 inches (101 mm) 66°F (19°C) 0.9 inches (22 mm)
Apr 48°F (9°C) 3.7 inches (94 mm) 74°F (23°C) 0.2 inches (6 mm)
May 58°F (15°C) 3.5 inches (89 mm) 83°F (28°C) 0.1 inches (3 mm)
Jun 67°F (20°C) 2.6 inches (67 mm) 92°F (34°C) 0.1 inches (3 mm)
Jul 73°F (23°C) 2.8 inches (72 mm) 98°F (36°C) 0.8 inches (21 mm)
Aug 72°F (22°C) 3.9 inches (99 mm) 96°F (35°C) 0.9 inches (24 mm)
Sep 64°F (18°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm) 90°F (32°C) 0.9 inches (22 mm)
Oct 53°F (12°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm) 79°F (26°C) 0.7 inches (17 mm)
Nov 44°F (7°C) 4.5 inches (115 mm) 66°F (19°C) 0.7 inches (18 mm)
Dec 33°F (0°C) 4.1 inches (105 mm) 58°F (15°C) 1 inches (25 mm)