A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Philadelphia vs. Arlington for Attractions, Food, Nightlife, and Families

Should you visit Philadelphia or Arlington?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Philadelphia or Arlington, 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.

Philadelphia

Philadelphia is a cultural, diverse, and historic city. As it's a big city, visitors will find plenty to do, too. It offers plenty of beauty for visitors. It's also popular because of the theater, nightlife, and live music.

Arlington

Arlington is a historical, educational, and international city. Visitors also love the food, shopping, and museums.

Philadelphia and Arlington: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Philadelphia or Arlington?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Philadelphia than Arlington, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Arlington is more touristy than Philadelphia and is known for its international connections, its biking and walking trails, and being the location of the Pentagon. Philadelphia is popular for its diverse population, large number of universities, great restaurant and market scene, and its role in American history. It is also home to The Liberty Bell.

How is Philadelphia different from Arlington?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Philadelphia or Arlington?

Philadelphia is terrific for its museums and history. Also, Arlington is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its museums and landmarks.

With plenty of landmarks, attractions, and museums, Philadelphia has many famous sights for visitors. The city has a rich history with a number of museums and monuments. Popular sites around the city include the Liberty Bell, Independence Hall, the Philadelphia Museum of Art, and the National Museum of Jewish American History.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into Arlington. Arlington National Cemetery is where you'll find the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier as well as the tomb of John F. Kennedy Jr. There are many memorials around town, with the most famous being the U.S. Marine Corps Memorial. There are also several museums like the DEA Museum and the Museum of Contemporary Art.

Is Philadelphia or Arlington Better for Theater?

Philadelphia is an excellent place to visit for its shows and theatre. However, Arlington is not a theatre destination.

Many visitors plan to see a show while visiting Philadelphia. There are major Broadway shows as well as smaller venues. Head to The Avenue of the Arts along Broad Street for a popular stretch of theaters.

Arlington is not a theatre destination.

Is the Food Better in Philadelphia or Arlington? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Both Philadelphia and Arlington offer a number of superb restaurants to choose from.

Philadelphia has a huge number of terrific restaurants. It has grown into a well-recognized food destination. It's diversity of cultures and residents have influenced the restaurant scene and you'll find many great places to dine covering a number of international flavors. The city is famous for its Philly cheesesteak and roast pork sandwich. You can also grab some local favorites at Reading Terminal Market.

Dining out in Arlington is an experience not to be missed. It's a global city, and the restaurants reflect that. You'll find amazing Thai, Japanese, and Mexican restaurants. There are also less common cuisines to choose from such as Ethiopian, Moroccan, and Peruvian.

Is Philadelphia or Arlington Better for Nightlife?

Both Philadelphia and Arlington have superb vibes after the sun sets.

Philadelphia has a lively atmosphere and nightlife is popular here. The city's nightlife scene carries late into the evening with many rooftop and outdoor beer gardens. Most of the clubs and bars are found in the downtown area and you'll find places to dance, listen to live music, or sip a trendy cocktails.

The people in Arlington know how to have a good time. The city has a huge young population that drives the nightlife scene. There are clubs, bars, and lounges in many neighborhoods. There are also comedy clubs and plenty of live music.

Is Philadelphia or Arlington Better for Music?

Philadelphia is an excellent place to visit for its music scene. However, Arlington is not a live music destination.

Whether you like big venues or smaller artists, Philadelphia has diverse options. The city's diverse music scene includes jazz, rock, and hip hop.

Arlington is not a live music destination.

Is Philadelphia or Arlington Better for its Old Town?

Philadelphia is a nice place to visit for its historic old town charm. However, Arlington does not have a historic old town.

Philadelphia has an old town worth visiting. The Old City has a number of Colonial-era sites including Independence Hall, the Liberty Bell, the Betsy Ross House.

Arlington does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Philadelphia or Arlington?

Philadelphia is an excellent place to visit for its shopping areas. Also, Arlington is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for shopping.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in Philadelphia. With all items tax-free, this city is a great place to shop. It has many boutique shops as well as name brand stores and shopping areas. For a local vibe, head to Reading Terminal Market.

Arlington is a great destination for shopping. Many neighborhoods have local shops or farmer's markets. There are also shopping centers and malls such as Ballston Quarter, The Crossing Clarendon, and The Village at Shirlington.

Is Philadelphia or Arlington Better for Christmas?

Philadelphia is an excellent place to visit for its Christmas holiday experiences. However, Arlington does not offer Christmas activities.

Since it has plenty to do, Philadelphia is a very popular place to visit during Christmas. There are a number of holiday events, light shows, and festivals during the holiday season.

Arlington does not offer Christmas activities.

Is Philadelphia or Arlington Better for Christmas Markets?

Philadelphia is a nice place to visit for visiting Christmas markets. However, Arlington does not offer Christmas markets.

Philadelphia has Christmas markets worth visiting. The city has its own German style Christmas market at Love Park and City Hall. It hosts over 80 vendors.

Arlington does not offer Christmas markets.

Is Philadelphia or Arlington Better for Families?

Philadelphia is an excellent place to visit for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Arlington is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Philadelphia. The city has many museums and a fascinating history that is interesting to kids and adults alike. Popular activities include a zoo and Sesame Place. Kids also love the hands-on Please Touch Museum.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Arlington. Kids will enjoy seeing the planes talk off from Gravelly Point park. There are also plenty of outdoor spaces and educational opportunities in the area, including world class museums.

Is Philadelphia or Arlington Better for Couples?

Philadelphia and Arlington are both good to visit as a couple.

Philadelphia makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Like many large cities, it is a fun place to explore in the evening as a couple. This is also a great foodie destination with great markets, food trucks, and diverse restaurants that reflect the city's diverse population.

Arlington is a good city for couples to visit. There's a vibrant cultural scene and many international restaurants that couples can enjoy. It's also a great place to take in a show or concert.

Is Philadelphia or Arlington Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Arlington is an excellent place to visit for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Philadelphia is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for backpackers.

Many backpackers visit Arlington. There are a couple of hostels and many free activities nearby. There's also great public transportation that makes for a convenient backpacker destination.

Philadelphia is a good city to visit for backpackers. There are a few good hostels for backpackers and budget travelers to choose from.

Is Philadelphia or Arlington Better for Students?

Both Philadelphia and Arlington are superb destinations for students.

Philadelphia is a great city to visit as a student. With its many universities and diverse population, this city is a great place for international students.

Students come from all over to stay in Arlington. There are a huge number of colleges and museums in the area as well as many great internship and educational opportunities.

Is Philadelphia or Arlington Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Arlington is a must-visit destination for times when you don't have a car. Also, Philadelphia is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its public transit.

Arlington has a world-class public transit network to take passengers everywhere in the city. There is a reliable bus system around town as well as many metro connections.

Many visitors use the public transit system in Philadelphia. The system includes a subway, trolleys, buses, and a commuter rail.

Is Philadelphia or Arlington a more walkable city?

Philadelphia is terrific for its ease of walking around. Also, Arlington is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its walkability.

It's very easy to get around on foot in Philadelphia. The Old City is particularly walkable, as is Avenue of the Arts, and Rittenhouse Square.

Arlington is very walkable. There are many pedestrian-friendly areas around town, particularly in the neighborhoods that are concentrated around metro stations.

For even more information, also check out Is Philadelphia Worth Visiting? and Is Arlington Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Arlington or Philadelphia?

How long in Philadelphia or Arlington?

It's fun to spend time in either Philadelphia or Arlington. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Arlington due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Philadelphia, and 2-4 days is enough time in Arlington.

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

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

One day in Philadelphia or Arlington?

People visit Philadelphia because there is so much to do. 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.

In Arlington, many people enjoy the food and shopping that this educational city offers. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

A weekend in Philadelphia or Arlington?

People visit Philadelphia because there is so much to do. 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.

Arlington is a fun place to experience. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. So, a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

Five days in Philadelphia or Arlington?

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

You'll find museums and nightlife around the educational destination of Arlington. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days.

A week in Philadelphia or Arlington?

Philadelphia 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.

Arlington is a popular place to visit. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 2-Week Tours from Anchorage, The Best 2-Week Tours from San Francisco, The Best 2-Week Tours from Los Angeles, and The Best Family-Friendly Tours to United States of America.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Philadelphia or Arlington?

Philadelphia has a larger population, and is about 8 times larger than the population of Arlington. When comparing the sizes of Philadelphia and Arlington, 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 Philadelphia or Arlington?

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 Philadelphia or Arlington in the Summer?

Both Arlington and Philadelphia are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The summer months attract visitors to Philadelphia because of the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Arlington this time of year.

In the summer, Philadelphia is around the same temperature as Arlington. Typically, the summer temperatures in Philadelphia in July average around 77°F (25°C), and Arlington averages at about 79°F (26°C).

It's quite sunny in Arlington. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Philadelphia. Philadelphia usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Arlington during summer. Philadelphia gets 273 hours of sunny skies, while Arlington receives 278 hours of full sun in the summer.

It's quite rainy in Philadelphia. In July, Philadelphia usually receives more rain than Arlington. Philadelphia gets 3.9 inches (100 mm) of rain, while Arlington receives 3.5 inches (88 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Philadelphia or Arlington in the Autumn?

Both Arlington and Philadelphia during the autumn are popular places to visit. The city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Philadelphia this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Arlington for the shopping scene.

In October, Philadelphia is generally cooler than Arlington. Daily temperatures in Philadelphia average around 56°F (14°C), and Arlington fluctuates around 60°F (15°C).

It's quite sunny in Philadelphia. In the autumn, Philadelphia often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Arlington. Philadelphia gets 202 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Arlington receives 197 hours of full sun.

Philadelphia usually gets less rain in October than Arlington. Philadelphia gets 1.9 inches (48 mm) of rain, while Arlington receives 2.9 inches (73 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Philadelphia or Arlington in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Philadelphia and Arlington. Many travelers come to Philadelphia for the museums, the Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Arlington in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Arlington can get quite cold in the winter. Be prepared for some very cold days in Philadelphia. Philadelphia is much colder than Arlington in the winter. The daily temperature in Philadelphia averages around 30°F (-1°C) in January, and Arlington fluctuates around 35°F (1°C).

Philadelphia usually receives more sunshine than Arlington during winter. Philadelphia gets 152 hours of sunny skies, while Arlington receives 139 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Philadelphia usually receives less rain than Arlington. Philadelphia gets 2.3 inches (58 mm) of rain, while Arlington receives 2.7 inches (68 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Philadelphia or Arlington in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Philadelphia as well as Arlington. Many visitors come to Philadelphia in the spring for the activities around the city and the natural beauty.

In the spring, Philadelphia is cooler than Arlington. Typically, the spring temperatures in Philadelphia in April average around 52°F (11°C), and Arlington averages at about 56°F (14°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Arlington. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Philadelphia this time of the year. In the spring, Philadelphia often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Arlington. Philadelphia gets 216 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Arlington receives 228 hours of full sun.

Philadelphia usually gets around the same amount of rain in April as Arlington. Philadelphia gets 2.8 inches (70 mm) of rain, while Arlington receives 2.8 inches (72 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Arlington and Philadelphia