A Travel Price Comparison for Pennsylvania Philadelphia vs. Lewisburg for Attractions, Food, Nightlife, and Families

Should you visit Philadelphia or Lewisburg?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Philadelphia or Lewisburg, 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 diverse, historic, and cultural city. It's a large city with plenty of activites for visitors as well. It's a gorgeous place to visit. It's also known for nightlife, live music, and food.

Lewisburg

Lewisburg is a charming, historical, and quaint town. This is a charming small with plenty of activities, too. Visitors also love the shopping and museums.

Philadelphia and Lewisburg: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Numerous theater shows
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Popular at Christmas
  • Known for Christmas markets
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good public transit
  • Very walkable
  • Big city activities
Pros
  • Family-friendly
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • Less popular for food
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less popular with couples
  • Less popular with backpackers
  • Public transit not as usable
  • Less walkable


Is there more to do in Philadelphia or Lewisburg?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Philadelphia. Although Philadelphia and Lewisburg are popular destinations, Philadelphia has more sights and attractions for tourists. Philadelphia is very popular for its museums, theatre productions, food, nightlife, music, shopping, christmas markets, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Lewisburg attracts visitors for its small town charm. Philadelphia is more touristy than Lewisburg and is popular for its diverse population, large number of universities, great restaurant and market scene, and its role in American history. It is also well known for The Liberty Bell. Lewisburg is famous for its historical charm and friendly personality.

How is Philadelphia different from Lewisburg?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Lewisburg 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 Lewisburg?

Philadelphia
Lewisburg

Philadelphia is an amazing city to visit for its museums and landmarks. Also, Lewisburg is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historical sights.

Visitors will find world class museums and historical sights in Philadelphia that are not to be missed. 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.

Lewisburg offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. There are several cultural and historical museums in town as well as a fun children's museum.


Is Philadelphia or Lewisburg Better for Theater?

Philadelphia
Lewisburg

Philadelphia is well known for theatre. However, Lewisburg is not a theatre destination.

While in town, many visitors enjoy seeing a show in 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.

Lewisburg is not a theatre destination.

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

Philadelphia
Lewisburg

Philadelphia is well known for its restaurant scene. However, Lewisburg is not particularly known for its local flavors and cuisine.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Philadelphia makes for a great culinary experience. 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.

You'll find the standard options when it comes to food in Lewisburg. There are bistros and cafes as well as all the standard chain restaurants.

Is Philadelphia or Lewisburg Better for Nightlife?

Philadelphia
Lewisburg

Philadelphia is well known for nightlife. However, Lewisburg is not particularly known for nightlife and partying.

Philadelphia is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. 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.

Lewisburg doesn't have the most active nightlife scene. While there are some bars, most people don't come here for the nightlife.


Is Philadelphia or Lewisburg Better for Music?

Philadelphia
Lewisburg

Philadelphia is well known for live music. However, Lewisburg is not a live music destination.

Music is a popular form of entertainment in Philadelphia. The city's diverse music scene includes jazz, rock, and hip hop.

Lewisburg is not a live music destination.

Is Philadelphia or Lewisburg Better for its Old Town?

Philadelphia
Lewisburg

Philadelphia and Lewisburg both have nice historical old towns that attract visitors.

Plenty of visitors enjoy exploring the old town in Philadelphia. The Old City has a number of Colonial-era sites including Independence Hall, the Liberty Bell, the Betsy Ross House.

Lewisburg offers a nice historic old town area. There are a huge number of historical buildings in the downtown area that contribute to the town's charm and character.

Is the Shopping Better in Philadelphia or Lewisburg?

Philadelphia
Lewisburg

Philadelphia is well known for shopping. Also, Lewisburg is still popular, but not quite as popular for its shopping opportunities.

Philadelphia is an extremely popular place for shoppers. 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.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Lewisburg. There are some quaint local shops that sell local items and unique art works.


Is Philadelphia or Lewisburg Better for Christmas?

Philadelphia
Lewisburg

Philadelphia is well known for its Christmas activities. However, Lewisburg does not offer Christmas activities.

Visitors come from all around to experience the Christmas activities in Philadelphia. There are a number of holiday events, light shows, and festivals during the holiday season.

Lewisburg does not offer Christmas activities.

Is Philadelphia or Lewisburg Better for Christmas Markets?

Philadelphia
Lewisburg

Philadelphia is a popular place for its Christmas markets. However, Lewisburg does not offer Christmas markets.

Many visitors go to the Christmas markets in Philadelphia. The city has its own German style Christmas market at Love Park and City Hall. It hosts over 80 vendors.

Lewisburg does not offer Christmas markets.

Is Philadelphia or Lewisburg Better for Families?

Philadelphia
Lewisburg

Philadelphia is well known for its family-friendly activities. Also, Lewisburg is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

Philadelphia is a very family-friendly place to visit. 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.

Lewisburg offers lots of family activities. The Lewisburg Children's Museum is worth checking out, as is Reptiland and the many different indoor and outdoor play areas.


Is Philadelphia or Lewisburg Better for Couples?

Philadelphia
Lewisburg

Philadelphia is a popular place for romance. However, Lewisburg is not particularly known for its romantic activities.

Philadelphia is a nice destination for couples. 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.

Most people don't think of Lewisburg as a couple's destination. There are several quaint inns and beautiful gardens that you can explore. There are also spas and restaurants where you can enjoy a nice meal.

Is Philadelphia or Lewisburg Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Philadelphia
Lewisburg

Philadelphia is a popular place for backpackers. However, Lewisburg is not particularly known for backpackers and budget travelers.

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

Lewisburg is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. It's not really on the radar for most backpackers.

Is Philadelphia or Lewisburg Better for Students?

Philadelphia
Lewisburg

Philadelphia is well known for students. Also, Lewisburg is still popular, but not quite as popular for its student-friendly activities.

Philadelphia is a very popular city for students and younger travelers. With its many universities and diverse population, this city is a great place for international students.

It's common for students to visit Lewisburg. Many students enjoy living here while they attend Bucknell University.


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

Philadelphia
Lewisburg

Philadelphia is well known for its public transit. However, Lewisburg is not particularly known for times when you don't have a car.

Visitors to Philadelphia can move around easily with public transportation. The system includes a subway, trolleys, buses, and a commuter rail.

Public transit is mostly limited in Lewisburg. Public transportation in the area is limited.

Is Philadelphia or Lewisburg a more walkable city?

Philadelphia
Lewisburg

Philadelphia is an amazing city to visit for its walkability. Also, Lewisburg is still popular, but not quite as popular for its high level of walkability.

Getting around Philadelphia on foot is easy. The Old City is particularly walkable, as is Avenue of the Arts, and Rittenhouse Square.

Lewisburg is a somewhat walkable place. It's small with a relatively compact downtown.

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

Should I spend more time in Lewisburg or Philadelphia?

How long in Philadelphia or Lewisburg?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Philadelphia or Lewisburg to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Philadelphia than Lewisburg because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Philadelphia, and 1-2 days is enough time in Lewisburg.

Families should spend more time in Philadelphia than Lewisburg. 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 Lewisburg. 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.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Philadelphia than Lewisburg 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 Philadelphia.


  • How many days in Philadelphia or Lewisburg? Ideal Length of Stay
    Philadelphia 2-3 
    Lewisburg 1-2

One day in Philadelphia or Lewisburg?

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 Lewisburg, many people enjoy the museums and shopping that this charming town offers. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. In one day, you should have a good grasp of this town.


A weekend in Philadelphia or Lewisburg?

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.

Lewisburg 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 Lewisburg?

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 shopping around the charming destination of Lewisburg. 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 Lewisburg?

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.

Lewisburg 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.


Which place is cheaper, Lewisburg or Philadelphia?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Philadelphia is $188, while the average daily cost in Lewisburg is $136. 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 Philadelphia and Lewisburg in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Philadelphia $119
    Lewisburg $70
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Philadelphia $238
    Lewisburg $140
Compare Hotels in Philadelphia and Lewisburg

Looking for a hotel in Philadelphia or Lewisburg? 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 Philadelphia


Hotels in Lewisburg


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: Philadelphia Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Philadelphia $28
    Lewisburg $53

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Philadelphia

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

  • Philadelphia Airport (PHL): Private Transfer to Philadelphia: $351
  • Philadelphia City to New York City - Private Car Transfer: $188
  • Philadelphia to Philadelphia Airport (PHL) - Departure Private Transfer: $65

Is it cheaper to fly into Philadelphia or Lewisburg?

Prices for flights to both Lewisburg and Philadelphia 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
    Philadelphia $49
    Lewisburg $34
Typical Food Prices in Philadelphia

For Philadelphia, here are some examples of average food and meal prices for travelers:


  • Casual Lunch (for 3)
    $27

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Philadelphia

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

  • Flavors of Philly Food Tour: $52
  • Locals' Favorites Food Tour: $52
  • Best of Philadelphia Food Tour-Small Group Walking Tour: $59
  • Philadelphia's Delicious Donut Adventure & Walking Food Tour: $65
  • Flavors of Philly Food Tour: $65
  • Bites and Booze: Walking Food Tour in Philadelphia : $65
  • Buffet Brunch, Lunch, or Dinner Cruise: $66
  • 9th Street Italian Market Walking Food Tour: $69
  • Secret Food Tour: $83
  • Highlights of East Passyunk Food Tour: $85
  • Chef-Led Taste of the Italian Market Food Tour: $90
  • Spirit of Philadelphia Signature Dinner Cruise with Buffet: $95

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Philadelphia $28
    Lewisburg $18
Typical Entertainment Prices in Philadelphia

Below are a few sample prices from actual travelers for Philadelphia's activities, tours, and tickets:


  • Big Bus Tour (family of 3)
    $99

Tours and Activities in Philadelphia

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

  • Art and Controversy: An audio tour of Philadelphia's most infamous art scandals: $5.40
  • The Road to Revolution: A Self-Guided Audio Tour in Philadelphia: $8.99
  • Road to Revolution GPS Walking Audio Tour: $8.99
  • Philadelphia In App Walking Audio Tour: $9.00
  • Philadelphia Self-Guided Audio Tour : $9.00
  • Scavenger Hunt Adventure in Allentown: $10
  • Self-Guided Audio Tour: $11
  • Self-Guided Walking Audio Tour: $12
  • National Liberty Museum Entrance Ticket: $12
  • Philadelphia Scavenger Hunt and Sights Self-Guided Tour: $13
  • Fantastic Philadelphia Self-Guided Audio Tour: $15
  • Penn Museum Admission Ticket: $18

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Philadelphia $21
    Lewisburg $12

Sample the Local Flavors in Philadelphia

Also in Philadelphia, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • Liberty History Tour Pub Crawl: $45
  • Guided Tour with Pub Crawl: $45
  • Half-Day Philadelphia's Brewery Bike Tour with Tastings: $100
  • Philly Signature Guided Brewery Tour: $105
  • Guided Craft Brewery Tours with a Snack: $120


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

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


Which is Bigger, Philadelphia or Lewisburg?

Philadelphia has a larger population, and is about 280 times larger than the population of Lewisburg. When comparing the sizes of Philadelphia and Lewisburg, 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 Lewisburg?

Both places have a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. As both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Philadelphia or Lewisburg in the Summer?

Both Lewisburg and Philadelphia during the summer are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Philadelphia in the summer for the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, most visitors come to Lewisburg for the small town charm and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In July, Philadelphia is generally around the same temperature as Lewisburg. Daily temperatures in Philadelphia average around 77°F (25°C), and Lewisburg fluctuates around 74°F (24°C).

In Lewisburg, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Philadelphia. In the summer, Philadelphia often gets less sunshine than Lewisburg. Philadelphia gets 273 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Lewisburg receives 310 hours of full sun.

Lewisburg gets a good bit of rain this time of year. It rains a lot this time of the year in Philadelphia. Philadelphia usually gets around the same amount of rain in July as Lewisburg. Philadelphia gets 3.9 inches (100 mm) of rain, while Lewisburg receives 4 inches (101 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Philadelphia 77°F (25°C) 
    Lewisburg 74°F (24°C)

Should I visit Philadelphia or Lewisburg in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Philadelphia and Lewisburg. Most visitors come to Philadelphia for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months. Furthermore, the autumn months attract visitors to Lewisburg because of the shopping scene and the small town atmosphere.

Philadelphia is a little warmer than Lewisburg in the autumn. The daily temperature in Philadelphia averages around 56°F (14°C) in October, and Lewisburg fluctuates around 54°F (12°C).

In Philadelphia, it's very sunny this time of the year. Philadelphia usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Lewisburg during autumn. Philadelphia gets 202 hours of sunny skies, while Lewisburg receives 194 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Philadelphia usually receives less rain than Lewisburg. Philadelphia gets 1.9 inches (48 mm) of rain, while Lewisburg receives 3.3 inches (84 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Philadelphia 56°F (14°C) 
    Lewisburg 54°F (12°C)

Should I visit Philadelphia or Lewisburg in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Philadelphia as well as Lewisburg. The winter months attract visitors to Philadelphia because of the museums, the Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine. Additionally, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Lewisburg this time of year.

It's quite cold in Lewisburg in the winter. The weather in Philadelphia can be very cold. In the winter, Philadelphia is much warmer than Lewisburg. Typically, the winter temperatures in Philadelphia in January average around 30°F (-1°C), and Lewisburg averages at about 27°F (-3°C).

In the winter, Philadelphia often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Lewisburg. Philadelphia gets 152 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Lewisburg receives 153 hours of full sun.

Philadelphia usually gets less rain in January than Lewisburg. Philadelphia gets 2.3 inches (58 mm) of rain, while Lewisburg receives 2.5 inches (65 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Philadelphia 30°F (-1°C) 
    Lewisburg 27°F (-3°C)

Should I visit Philadelphia or Lewisburg in the Spring?

Both Lewisburg and Philadelphia are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The activities around the city and the natural beauty are the main draw to Philadelphia this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Lewisburg for the small town charm.

In April, Philadelphia is generally around the same temperature as Lewisburg. Daily temperatures in Philadelphia average around 52°F (11°C), and Lewisburg fluctuates around 51°F (11°C).

It's quite sunny in Lewisburg. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Philadelphia. Philadelphia usually receives less sunshine than Lewisburg during spring. Philadelphia gets 216 hours of sunny skies, while Lewisburg receives 237 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Philadelphia usually receives less rain than Lewisburg. Philadelphia gets 2.8 inches (70 mm) of rain, while Lewisburg receives 3.2 inches (82 mm) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Philadelphia 52°F (11°C) 
    Lewisburg 51°F (11°C)

Typical Weather for Lewisburg and Philadelphia

Philadelphia Lewisburg
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 30°F (-1°C) 2.3 inches (58 mm) 27°F (-3°C) 2.5 inches (65 mm)
Feb 33°F (1°C) 2.1 inches (54 mm) 30°F (-1°C) 2.8 inches (70 mm)
Mar 42°F (6°C) 2.7 inches (68 mm) 40°F (5°C) 3.2 inches (81 mm)
Apr 52°F (11°C) 2.8 inches (70 mm) 51°F (11°C) 3.2 inches (82 mm)
May 63°F (17°C) 2.8 inches (70 mm) 62°F (16°C) 3.9 inches (98 mm)
Jun 72°F (22°C) 3 inches (76 mm) 70°F (21°C) 4.3 inches (110 mm)
Jul 77°F (25°C) 3.9 inches (100 mm) 74°F (24°C) 4 inches (101 mm)
Aug 76°F (24°C) 3 inches (75 mm) 73°F (23°C) 3.4 inches (86 mm)
Sep 68°F (20°C) 2.8 inches (71 mm) 65°F (19°C) 3.4 inches (86 mm)
Oct 56°F (14°C) 1.9 inches (48 mm) 54°F (12°C) 3.3 inches (84 mm)
Nov 46°F (8°C) 2.5 inches (64 mm) 44°F (7°C) 3.7 inches (95 mm)
Dec 36°F (2°C) 2.7 inches (69 mm) 33°F (1°C) 3 inches (77 mm)