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

Should you visit Pittsburgh or Seattle?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Pittsburgh or Seattle, 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.

Pittsburgh

Pittsburgh is a under-rated, industrial, and authentic city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. Other popular activities here include nightlife, food, and shopping.

Seattle

Seattle is a laid-back, bustling, and progressive 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 beaches, hiking, and shopping.

Pittsburgh and Seattle: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Pittsburgh or Seattle?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Seattle than Pittsburgh. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Seattle is more touristy than Pittsburgh 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. Pittsburgh is famous for its many bridges, its steel industry, and being the home of "Mr. Roger's Neighborhood".

How is Pittsburgh different from Seattle?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

You'll find a number of superb museums and attractions in both Seattle and Pittsburgh.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Pittsburgh can be an interesting and educational experience. The museums range from science and nature focused, like the Phipps Conservatory and Botanical Garden, to quirky and artsy, like the Mattress Factory. The Warhol Museum is dedicated to the works of Andy Warhol and it's not to be missed. Also worth a visit is the Heinz History Center, Randyland, and the Carnegie Museums of Art and Natural History.

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.

Is Pittsburgh or Seattle Better for Theater?

Seattle is a nice place to visit for its shows and theatre. However, Pittsburgh 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.

Pittsburgh is not a theatre destination.

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

Seattle is great for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Pittsburgh 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.

Pittsburgh offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. The city is known for its working class roots, and the food is hearty and filling, which is great for those on a budget. Popular local dishes include pierogis, deli sandwiches, Pittsburgh salads (complete with French fries), and hotcakes.

Is Pittsburgh or Seattle Better for Nightlife?

The vibe at night is superb in both Pittsburgh and Seattle.

Many people head to Pittsburgh for the nightlife scene. There's an active music and dance scene in town. For the best bars and clubs, head to the Strip and South Side and for live entertainment and casinos check out the North Shore.

Seattle has plenty to do after the sun goes down. 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.

Is Pittsburgh or Seattle Better for Music?

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

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

Pittsburgh is not a live music destination.

Is Pittsburgh or Seattle Better for Beaches?

Seattle is a nice place to visit for the beach. However, Pittsburgh is not a beach destination.

Seattle has a beach worth visiting. 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.

Pittsburgh is not a beach destination.

Is Pittsburgh or Seattle Better for Hiking?

Seattle is great for hiking. However, Pittsburgh is not a hiking destination.

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.

Pittsburgh is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Pittsburgh or Seattle?

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

Pittsburgh has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. You'll find local fashion boutiques and shopping centers in the city's downtown. Other great shopping neighborhoods include Shadyside, Station Square, and Fifth Avenue Place.

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 Pittsburgh or Seattle Better for Families?

Pittsburgh and Seattle are both nice destinations for the whole family.

Pittsburgh offers lots of family activities. There's a surprising number of kid-friendly activities packed into this city. Check out the National Aviary or visit the popular Pittsburgh Zoo and Aquarium. There are also kid-focused museums and science centers as well as parks and playgrounds. Also make sure you take the cable car up Duquesne Incline or enjoy a boat ride on one of the rivers as well.

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 Pittsburgh or Seattle Better for Couples?

Seattle is a nice place to visit for couples. However, Pittsburgh is not a good destination for romance.

Seattle is a good city for couples to visit. 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.

Pittsburgh is not the best destination for a couple to visit. There are a few good date night activities like taking river cruises, enjoying dinner and show, or going to a Pirate's game.

Is Pittsburgh or Seattle Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Seattle is a nice place to visit for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Pittsburgh is not a good destination for backpackers.

It's common for backpackers to visit Seattle. 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.

Pittsburgh is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. It's usually overlooked by backpackers, but there is some cheap accommodation in town.

Is Pittsburgh or Seattle Better for Students?

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

Seattle is a great city to visit as a student. 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.

Pittsburgh is not popular with students.

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

Pittsburgh and Seattle both offer nice public transit to get you around.

While Pittsburgh offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There are bus and lightrail options through the city's downtown. There's also the unique incline, which is an experience worth doing.

Seattle has a few public transit options. There is a light rail system, a monorail, a street car, and buses.

Is Pittsburgh or Seattle a more walkable city?

Seattle is great for its ease of walking around. Also, Pittsburgh is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its walkability.

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

Pittsburgh is somewhat walkable. Some of the attractions are spread out, but if you're willing to do a bit of walking, it's possible to get around on foot.

For even more information, also check out Is Pittsburgh Worth Visiting? and Is Seattle Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Seattle or Pittsburgh?

How long in Pittsburgh or Seattle?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Pittsburgh and Seattle. In our opinion, Seattle has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Seattle than Pittsburgh. However, 2-3 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

Families should spend more time in Seattle than Pittsburgh. 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 Pittsburgh. 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 Pittsburgh 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 Pittsburgh or Seattle?

In Pittsburgh, you'll find nightlife and food. This city offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

When visiting Seattle, people usually allow for lots of time. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Pittsburgh or Seattle?

In Pittsburgh, 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 Pittsburgh has to offer.

When visiting Seattle, people usually allow for lots of time. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. It offers something for everyone. Many people spend a weekend here. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this city.

Five days in Pittsburgh or Seattle?

Pittsburgh 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, a popular city, is full of activities for travelers. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

A week in Pittsburgh or Seattle?

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

Seattle is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Anchorage, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Los Angeles, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from New York City, and The Best 2-Week Tours from New York City.

When comparing the travel costs between Pittsburgh and Seattle, we can see that Seattle 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 Pittsburgh Expensive? and Is Seattle Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Pittsburgh or Seattle?

Seattle has a larger population, and is about 78% larger than the population of Pittsburgh. When comparing the sizes of Pittsburgh 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.