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

Should you visit Philadelphia or Santa Monica?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Philadelphia or Santa Monica, 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 historic, cultural, and diverse city. Travelers will also find plenty of sights and attractions here, as it's a big city that attracts lots of visitors. It's a beautiful place to visit, too. And you can't forget about the museums, theater, and nightlife.

Santa Monica

Santa Monica is a lively, funfilled, and energetic town. Visitors also love the museums, nightlife, and food.

Philadelphia and Santa Monica: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Philadelphia or Santa Monica?

You'll generally find more things to do in Philadelphia than Santa Monica. Philadelphia is bigger than Santa Monica, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Philadelphia is better known for its museums, theatre productions, music, historical sights, christmas markets, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Santa Monica is more popular for its beaches. Santa Monica is more touristy than Philadelphia and is popular for its active lifestyle and fun-filled activities. Philadelphia is well known for its diverse population, large number of universities, great restaurant and market scene, and its role in American history. Also, Philadelphia is famous for The Liberty Bell.

How is Philadelphia different from Santa Monica?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Philadelphia is an amazing city to visit for its sights and museums. Also, Santa Monica is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its museums and history.

The museums, monuments, and landmarks in Philadelphia are among the most recognizable in the world. 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.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Santa Monica. There's a thriving arts scene and a number of museums around town. Check out the Museum of Flying, the California Heritage Museum, or the Santa Monica History Museum.

Is Philadelphia or Santa Monica Better for Theater?

Philadelphia is notable for its theatre productions. However, Santa Monica 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.

Santa Monica is not a theatre destination.

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

Both Philadelphia and Santa Monica offer a number of very good 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 Santa Monica is an experience not to be missed. You'll find a diversity of restaurants in the area, many of which make use of the town's many farmer's markets. The restaurant scene has a beachy vibe with a lot of outdoor dining opportunities. There are also a range of cuisines to choose from such as Mexican, Italian, casual, and upscale.

Is Philadelphia or Santa Monica Better for Nightlife?

Both Philadelphia and Santa Monica have very good 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 Santa Monica know how to have a good time. There's a relaxed and laid back vibe to the nightlife scene. Many venues offer outdoor seating and live music in a casual setting. You can hang out on a patio and enjoy the California climate while you sip cold drinks and the beach town atmosphere.

Is Philadelphia or Santa Monica Better for Music?

Philadelphia is notable for its live music scene. However, Santa Monica is not a live music destination.

If you love music, you'll find something to enjoy in Philadelphia. The city's diverse music scene includes jazz, rock, and hip hop.

Santa Monica is not a live music destination.

Is Philadelphia or Santa Monica Better for Beaches?

Santa Monica is a must-visit destination for the beache. However, Philadelphia is not a beach destination.

The beaches in Santa Monica are among the best in the world. Santa Monica Beach is large and lined with bike trails. It's also filled with activity and you'll find many water sports, beach volleyball, and surfing in the area. There's also the famous Santa Monica Pier, which has an amusement park aquarium, Ferris wheal, dining, and shopping.

Philadelphia is not a beach destination.

Is Philadelphia or Santa Monica Better for its Old Town?

Philadelphia is a popular place for its old town. However, Santa Monica does not have a historic old town.

Many people head to Philadelphia to see the old town. The Old City has a number of Colonial-era sites including Independence Hall, the Liberty Bell, the Betsy Ross House.

Santa Monica does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Philadelphia or Santa Monica?

Shoppers can find a variety of very good stores in both Philadelphia and Santa Monica.

Philadelphia is well-known for its shopping. 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.

Browsing through shops is a popular activity in Santa Monica. It's easy to pass the time shopping in Santa Monica. There are independent vendors, fashion boutiques, and art galleries. Head to Montana Avenue or Main Street for some of the best shopping.

Is Philadelphia or Santa Monica Better for Christmas?

Philadelphia is notable for its Christmas activities. However, Santa Monica does not offer Christmas activities.

Philadelphia is an extremely popular place to visit during the Christmas season. There are a number of holiday events, light shows, and festivals during the holiday season.

Santa Monica does not offer Christmas activities.

Is Philadelphia or Santa Monica Better for Christmas Markets?

Philadelphia is a popular place for its Christmas markets. However, Santa Monica 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.

Santa Monica does not offer Christmas markets.

Is Philadelphia or Santa Monica Better for Families?

Santa Monica is a must-visit destination for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Philadelphia is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

Santa Monica is an amazing family-friendly town to visit. Many families spend their days hanging out on the beaches, soaking up the sun, and even trying to surf. There's a boardwalk as well as bike paths that are perfect for people watching. You should also check out the Pacific Park on the Santa Monica Pier, which is a thrilling amusement park.

Philadelphia is known to be 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.

Is Philadelphia or Santa Monica Better for Couples?

Santa Monica is an excellent place to visit for its romantic activities. Also, Philadelphia is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for couples.

Santa Monica makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Fun days on the beach, peaceful walks at sunset, and a wild nightlife scene make this the perfect couples destination for couples who enjoy activity and excitement.

Philadelphia is a good city for couples to visit. 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.

Is Philadelphia or Santa Monica Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Philadelphia and Santa Monica are both notable destinations for backpackers.

It's common for backpackers to visit Philadelphia. There are a few good hostels for backpackers and budget travelers to choose from.

Santa Monica is a good city to visit for backpackers. There's no shortage of activities in the area, whether you're into surfing, partying, or sunbathing. There's also at least one hostel that's great for budget travelers and backpackers.

Is Philadelphia or Santa Monica Better for Students?

Philadelphia is notable for students. However, Santa Monica is not popular with students.

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.

Santa Monica is not popular with students.

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

Philadelphia is notable for its public transit. However, Santa Monica does not have public transit.

Philadelphia has some very good public transit options. The system includes a subway, trolleys, buses, and a commuter rail.

Santa Monica does not have public transit. The Metro E Line connects the city to downtown Los Angeles. There's also the Big Blue Bus as well the Santa Monica Circuit, which are small electric carts that offer free rides between Wilshire Boulevard and Marine Street, and from the ocean to Fifth Street.

Is Philadelphia or Santa Monica a more walkable city?

Philadelphia is an amazing city to visit for its high level of walkability. Also, Santa Monica is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its ease of walking around.

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

Santa Monica is a very walkable destination. The city is very walkable, particularly in the more touristy areas.

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

Should I spend more time in Santa Monica or Philadelphia?

How long in Philadelphia or Santa Monica?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Philadelphia and Santa Monica. In our opinion, Philadelphia has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Philadelphia than Santa Monica. In general, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Philadelphia, and 1-3 days is enough time in Santa Monica.

Couples should spend more time in Philadelphia than Santa Monica. 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 Santa Monica 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.

One day in Philadelphia or Santa Monica?

Each neighborhood in Philadelphia has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. 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.

In Santa Monica, many people enjoy the food and shopping that this lively town offers. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. 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 Santa Monica?

Philadelphia 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. Lots of people come for the museums. So, a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

Santa Monica is a fun place to experience. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. Lots of people come for the beaches. So, a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

Five days in Philadelphia or Santa Monica?

You'll find shopping and museums around the diverse big city of Philadelphia. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Lots of people come for the museums. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days.

You'll find museums and nightlife around the active destination of Santa Monica. Most people come for the beaches. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Lots of people come for the beaches. 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 Santa Monica?

Philadelphia 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.

Santa Monica is a popular place to visit. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. 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 comparing the travel costs between Philadelphia and Santa Monica, we can see that Santa Monica is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Since both cities are in North America, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

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

Which is Bigger, Philadelphia or Santa Monica?

Philadelphia has a larger population, and is about 20 times larger than the population of Santa Monica. When comparing the sizes of Philadelphia and Santa Monica, 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 Santa Monica?

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 Santa Monica in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Philadelphia as well as Santa Monica. Many visitors come to Philadelphia in the summer for the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences. Additionally, most visitors come to Santa Monica for the beaches and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

Philadelphia is a little warmer than Santa Monica in the summer. The daily temperature in Philadelphia averages around 77°F (25°C) in July, and Santa Monica fluctuates around 70°F (21°C).

Philadelphia receives a lot of rain in the summer. Philadelphia usually gets more rain in July than Santa Monica. Philadelphia gets 3.9 inches (100 mm) of rain, while Santa Monica receives 0 inches (0 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Philadelphia or Santa Monica in the Autumn?

Both Santa Monica and Philadelphia are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. 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. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Santa Monica because of the shopping scene.

In the autumn, Philadelphia is cooler than Santa Monica. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Philadelphia in October average around 56°F (14°C), and Santa Monica averages at about 67°F (20°C).

In October, Philadelphia usually receives more rain than Santa Monica. Philadelphia gets 1.9 inches (48 mm) of rain, while Santa Monica receives 0.2 inches (6 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Philadelphia or Santa Monica in the Winter?

Both Santa Monica and Philadelphia during the winter are popular places to visit. The winter months attract visitors to Philadelphia because of the museums, the Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine. Also, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Santa Monica this time of year.

The weather in Philadelphia can be very cold. In January, Philadelphia is generally much colder than Santa Monica. Daily temperatures in Philadelphia average around 30°F (-1°C), and Santa Monica fluctuates around 57°F (14°C).

Philadelphia usually gets more rain in January than Santa Monica. Philadelphia gets 2.3 inches (58 mm) of rain, while Santa Monica receives 0.7 inches (17 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Philadelphia or Santa Monica in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Philadelphia and Santa Monica. The activities around the city and the natural beauty are the main draw to Philadelphia this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Santa Monica for the beaches.

Philadelphia is cooler than Santa Monica in the spring. The daily temperature in Philadelphia averages around 52°F (11°C) in April, and Santa Monica fluctuates around 61°F (16°C).

In April, Philadelphia usually receives more rain than Santa Monica. Philadelphia gets 2.8 inches (70 mm) of rain, while Santa Monica receives 0.2 inches (4 mm) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Santa Monica and Philadelphia