A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Phoenix vs. Seattle for Attractions, Food, Nightlife, and Hiking

Should you visit Phoenix or Seattle?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Phoenix and Seattle 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.

Phoenix

Phoenix is a laid back, sprawling, and desert city. Other popular activities here include museums, nightlife, and food.

Seattle

Seattle is a bustling, progressive, and cultural 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.

Phoenix and Seattle: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Phoenix or Seattle?

Travelers will generally find more things to do in Seattle than Phoenix. While Phoenix is larger than Seattle, Seattle has more sights and attractions for tourists. Seattle is more touristy than Phoenix and is popular for its beautiful waterfront setting, diverse culinary scene, thriving art and cultural venues, and being the home of many international tech companies. It is also well known for The Space Needle. Phoenix is famous for its desert landscapes, high number of golf courses, and year round warm weather.

How is Phoenix different from Seattle?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Seattle is a great city 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 Seattle. The city's most iconic landmark is the Space Needle. There's also a zoo, aquarium, and a handful of nice museums. Several favorites include the Chihuly Garden and Glass, the Museum of History & Industry, and the Seattle Art Museum.

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 Phoenix or Seattle Better for Theater?

Seattle is a city with good options for its shows and theatre. However, Phoenix is not a theatre destination.

If you have some extra time in Seattle, take in a show. There are a handful of theaters where you can enjoy traveling Broadway shows or smaller productions.

Phoenix is not a theatre destination.

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

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

Seattle has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. The city has many diverse dining options that make it a popular foodie destination. The seafood is world-class with many restaurants offering fresh caught salmon and oysters. There are also many great Asian restaurants with Pho, sushi, and dim sum all being popular around town. Seattle is also famous as the birthplace of Starbucks coffee, and both chain and independent coffee shops are common. Finally, make sure you check out the donuts at Pike's Place Market.

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 Phoenix or Seattle Better for Nightlife?

Seattle is a great city for its evening party scene. Also, Phoenix is not as popular, but is still a nice city for nightlife.

The nightlife in Seattle has something for everybody. The city is known for its breweries and eclectic nightlife scene. There is a thriving theater scene as well as many bars and trendy restaurants. The best neighborhoods for nightlife include Capitol Hill, Belltown, and Downtown.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Phoenix. 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 Phoenix or Seattle Better for Music?

Seattle is a great city for its music scene. However, Phoenix is not a live music destination.

Seattle has a thriving music scene. The city has developed its own music culture around several genres including alternative rock and grunge.

Phoenix is not a live music destination.

Is Phoenix or Seattle Better for Beaches?

Seattle is a city with good options for the beach. However, Phoenix is not a beach destination.

Plenty of visitors enjoy relaxing on the beach in Seattle. The city is surrounded by water so there are a number of rocky and sandy beaches nearby. Some beaches are more popular with locals while others attract a large amount of tourists. Alki Beach Park, Discovery Park, and Golden Gardens Park are among the best.

Phoenix is not a beach destination.

Is Phoenix or Seattle Better for Hiking?

Seattle is a great city for hiking. Also, Phoenix is not as popular, but is still a nice city for the nearby hiking options.

Many visitors go to Seattle for the hiking trails. It's famously an outdoorsy city and the hiking will not disappoint. Within a half hour drive of town you'll find beautiful forests and stunning natural beauty. Head into the Cascades, to the coastal rainforests, or around Mount Rainier for all kinds of diverse landscapes. Seattle is well situated for you to experience hiking through the diverse Pacific Northwest landscapes.

Phoenix offers some nice hiking trails. 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.

Is the Shopping Better in Phoenix or Seattle?

If you're looking to go shopping, Phoenix and Seattle both offer plenty of nice spots.

Phoenix has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. 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.

Seattle is a great destination for shopping. Shopping in town has an eclectic mix of high end brands, local vendors, and vintage shops. There are farmers markets as well as the famous Pike Place Market, but also major malls with all of the standard department stores.

Is Phoenix or Seattle Better for Families?

Both Phoenix and Seattle are nice to visit with kids.

Phoenix offers lots of family activities. 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.

Seattle is a family-friendly place to visit. This is an outdoor city with plenty of places where kids can run around and experience nature. There are several good museums as well as outdoor activities, parks, and a zoo. Make sure you check out the Burke Museum of Natural History and Culture, Volunteer Park, and Artists at Play Playground.

Is Phoenix or Seattle Better for Couples?

Both Phoenix and Seattle are nice destinations for a couple's getaway.

Phoenix is a good city for couples to visit. 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.

Seattle is a nice destination for couples. The city has a laid back vibe, a nice downtown area, and plenty of outdoor activities. There are a diversity of restaurants to enjoy and a great nightlife scene that makes for a good couple's getaway.

Is Phoenix or Seattle Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Seattle is a city with good options for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Phoenix is not known for backpackers.

Seattle is a good city to visit for backpackers. Although it's not the most popular city for backpackers in America, the city's chill vibe, fun breweries, and lively setting make it a great spot for young backpackers.

Phoenix is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. There is a hostel or two around town for budget travelers.

Is Phoenix or Seattle Better for Students?

Seattle is a great city for its student-friendly activities. However, Phoenix is not popular with students.

Students come from all over to stay in Seattle. It is a major IT center with a large university, so international students will have plenty of opportunities here. It's also a vibrant city with many outdoor recreational opportunities and a fun nightlife scene.

Phoenix is not popular with students.

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

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

While Seattle offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There is a light rail system, a monorail, a street car, and 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 Phoenix or Seattle a more walkable city?

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

Seattle is a very walkable destination. Many neighborhoods are very walkable, particularly in the downtown and major tourist areas.

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 Phoenix Worth Visiting? and Is Seattle Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Seattle or Phoenix?

How long in Phoenix or Seattle?

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

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Seattle 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 Seattle.

One day in Phoenix or Seattle?

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.

Because Seattle is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. This city offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

A weekend in Phoenix or Seattle?

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.

Because Seattle is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Seattle has to offer.

Five days in Phoenix or Seattle?

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.

Seattle is a great place to explore. Hikers are also drawn to this area. 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 Phoenix or Seattle?

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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Seattle. Many people enjoy the theater and nightlife when visiting Seattle. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. 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 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 Phoenix and Seattle, we can see that Phoenix is more expensive. And not only is Seattle much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Seattle would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Seattle 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 Seattle.

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

Which is Bigger, Phoenix or Seattle?

Phoenix has a larger population, and is about 2 times larger than the population of Seattle. When comparing the sizes of Phoenix and Seattle, 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 Phoenix or Seattle?

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 Phoenix or Seattle in the Summer?

Both Seattle and Phoenix during the summer are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Phoenix for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Furthermore, the summer months attract visitors to Seattle because of the beaches, the hiking, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

It's very hot in Phoenix this time of the year. Phoenix is much warmer than Seattle in the summer. The daily temperature in Phoenix averages around 98°F (36°C) in July, and Seattle fluctuates around 67°F (19°C).

In Seattle, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Phoenix. In the summer, Phoenix often gets more sunshine than Seattle. Phoenix gets 380 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Seattle receives 313 hours of full sun.

Phoenix usually gets around the same amount of rain in July as Seattle. Phoenix gets 0.8 inches (21 mm) of rain, while Seattle receives 0.9 inches (22 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Phoenix or Seattle in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Phoenix and Seattle. The autumn months attract visitors to Phoenix because of the hiking trails and the shopping scene. Furthermore, the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Seattle this time of year.

In the autumn, Phoenix is much warmer than Seattle. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Phoenix in October average around 79°F (26°C), and Seattle averages at about 54°F (12°C).

In Phoenix, it's very sunny this time of the year. Phoenix usually receives more sunshine than Seattle during autumn. Phoenix gets 305 hours of sunny skies, while Seattle receives 143 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Phoenix usually receives less rain than Seattle. Phoenix gets 0.7 inches (17 mm) of rain, while Seattle receives 3.3 inches (83 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Phoenix or Seattle in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Phoenix as well as Seattle. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Phoenix this time of year. Additionally, many travelers come to Seattle for the museums, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine.

In January, Phoenix is generally much warmer than Seattle. Daily temperatures in Phoenix average around 58°F (14°C), and Seattle fluctuates around 42°F (5°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Phoenix this time of the year. In the winter, Phoenix often gets more sunshine than Seattle. Phoenix gets 254 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Seattle receives 67 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Seattle. Phoenix usually gets less rain in January than Seattle. Phoenix gets 0.7 inches (17 mm) of rain, while Seattle receives 5.4 inches (136 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Phoenix or Seattle in the Spring?

Both Seattle and Phoenix are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Also, many visitors come to Seattle in the spring for the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty.

Phoenix is much warmer than Seattle in the spring. The daily temperature in Phoenix averages around 74°F (23°C) in April, and Seattle fluctuates around 51°F (11°C).

It's quite sunny in Seattle. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Phoenix. Phoenix usually receives more sunshine than Seattle during spring. Phoenix gets 355 hours of sunny skies, while Seattle receives 212 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Phoenix usually receives less rain than Seattle. Phoenix gets 0.2 inches (6 mm) of rain, while Seattle receives 2.5 inches (64 mm) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Seattle and Phoenix