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

Should you visit Providence or Seattle?

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

Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for Providence and Seattle. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.

Providence

Providence is a active, friendly, and fascinating city. Other popular activities here include nightlife, food, and shopping.

Seattle

Seattle is a progressive, cultural, and outdoorsy 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.

Providence and Seattle: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with backpackers
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Numerous theater shows
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Big city activities
  • Home to the Space Needle


Is there more to do in Providence or Seattle?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Seattle than Providence. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Seattle is more touristy than Providence 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. Providence is famous for its outdoor parks, historic atmosphere, and college town vibe.

How is Providence different from Seattle?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Providence
Seattle

Seattle is a great city for its historical sights. Also, Providence is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its sights and museums.

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around 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.

Providence is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. There are several historical museums around town as well as art museums, zoos, a planetarium and natural history museum, and even a children's museum.


Is Providence or Seattle Better for Theater?

Providence
Seattle

Seattle is a good destination for its shows and theatre. However, Providence 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.

Providence is not a theatre destination.

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

Providence
Seattle

Dining out at restaurants in both Providence and Seattle can be an enjoyable experience.

Providence has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. The food scene around town has grown and diversified in recent years. You'll find a mix of international and local options and for such a small city, it really has a lot to offer.

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

Is Providence or Seattle Better for Nightlife?

Providence
Seattle

Seattle is a great city for its evening party scene. Also, Providence 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 Providence. Comedy clubs, bars, and clubs keep the energy high during the evening hours. It's not hard to find something to do, particularly on weekend nights.


Is Providence or Seattle Better for Music?

Providence
Seattle

Seattle is a great city for its music scene. However, Providence 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.

Providence is not a live music destination.

Is Providence or Seattle Better for Beaches?

Providence
Seattle

Seattle is a good destination for the beach. However, Providence is not a beach destination.

Seattle offers a nice beach destination. 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.

Providence is not a beach destination.

Is Providence or Seattle Better for Hiking?

Providence
Seattle

Seattle is a great city for hiking. However, Providence 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.

Providence is not a hiking destination.


Is the Shopping Better in Providence or Seattle?

Providence
Seattle

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

Providence has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. Malls, shopping centers, and boutiques all offer a range of shopping experiences 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 Providence or Seattle Better for Families?

Providence
Seattle

Both Providence and Seattle are nice family-friendly destinations.

Providence offers lots of family activities. There are opportunities for kids to interact with animals at the Roger Williams Park Zoo, as well as plenty of places for kids to run around like Rocky Point Park or Goddard Memorial State Park. There's also the Providence Children's Museum, go carting, and entertainment centers.

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 Providence or Seattle Better for Couples?

Providence
Seattle

Providence and Seattle both nice destinations for a couple.

Providence is a good city for couples to visit. You can see a show at the Providence Performing Arts Center or visit some of the city's historic buildings and museums. There are also parks and coastal walks as well as many great 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 Providence or Seattle Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Providence
Seattle

Seattle is a good destination for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Providence is not known for backpackers.

Plenty of backpackers 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.

Providence is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. There are a couple of hostels around town for those who want an affordable place to stay.

Is Providence or Seattle Better for Students?

Providence
Seattle

For students, both Providence and Seattle are great places to visit.

Many students visit Providence. There's a college town vibe to this small city because it's home to Brown University, which is a member of the Ivy League.

Seattle is a very popular city for students and younger travelers. 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.

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

Providence
Seattle

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

While Providence offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There are RIPTA buses that travel around town.

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


Is Providence or Seattle a more walkable city?

Providence
Seattle

Providence and Seattle are great when it comes to walkability.

Providence is a very walkable destination. It's a walkable city and it's relatively easy to explore on foot.

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

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

Should I spend more time in Seattle or Providence?

How long in Providence or Seattle?

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

Families should spend more time in Seattle than Providence. 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 Providence. 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 Providence 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.


  • How many days in Providence or Seattle? Ideal Length of Stay
    Providence 2-3 
    Seattle 2-3

One day in Providence or Seattle?

In Providence, 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 Providence or Seattle?

In Providence, 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 Providence 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 Providence or Seattle?

Providence 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 Providence or Seattle?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Providence. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Providence. 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 Photography Tours in United States of America, The Best Camping Tours in United States of America, The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in United States of America, and The Best Polar Tours & Cruises in United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Seattle or Providence?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Providence is $210, while the average daily cost in Seattle is $205. 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 Providence and Seattle in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Providence $114
    Seattle $120
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Providence $228
    Seattle $240
Compare Hotels in Providence and Seattle

Looking for a hotel in Providence or Seattle? 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 Providence


Hotels in Seattle


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: Providence Hotel Prices and Seattle Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Providence $46
    Seattle $30

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Providence

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

  • Private Departure Transfer to Providence TF Green Airport PVD: $36
  • Providence to Rhode Island Airport PVD Departure Transfer : $46
  • T. F. Green State Airport (PVD) to Providence – Arrival Private Transfer : $46
  • Private Transfer from Providence Airport (PVD) to Newport Port : $50
  • Private Transfer from Providence City Hotels to Newport Port: $62
  • T. F. Green State Airport (PVD) to Providence - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $93
  • Providence to Boston’s Logan International Airport - Departure Private Transfer: $172
  • New York’s JFK International Airport to Providence – Departure Private Transfer: $275

Typical Local Transportation Prices in Seattle

Here are some examples of typical transportation prices from actual travelers in Seattle:


  • Lightrail from Airport (for 2)
    $5.50
  • Roundtrip Ferry to Bainbridge Island (for 2)
    $15

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Seattle

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Seattle:

  • Smith Cove Terminal: Private Transfer to Seattle hotels: $313
  • Seattle Tacoma Airport(SEA): Transfer to Smith Cove Terminal: $313
  • Seattle Tacoma Airport (SEA): Private Transfer to Seattle: $269
  • Airport Transfer From Seattle Airport to Hotels and Home: $265
  • Private Transfer Seattle Airport SEA to Seattle center or port by Minibus or SUV: $195
  • Roundtrip Transfer Private Minivan Seattle Airport (SEA) -Seattle Downtown: $195
  • From Seattle Hotels - Hotel Transfer to Airport: $175
  • From Seattle Airport - Transfer to Hotel & Homes: $175
  • Seattle Tacoma Airport to Summit at Snoqualmie Arrival Transfer: $155
  • Seattle Tacoma Airport (SEA) to Smith Cove Terminal - RoundTrip Private Transfer: $150
  • Smith Cove Terminal to Seattle hotels - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $150
  • Arrival Private Transfer: Seattle Airport SEA to Seattle in Luxury Car: $147

Is it cheaper to fly into Providence or Seattle?

Prices for flights to both Seattle and Providence 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
    Providence $48
    Seattle $51

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Providence

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

  • Downcity Providence Food Tour: $89

Typical Food Prices in Seattle

Some typical examples of dining costs in Seattle are as follows:


  • Expresso & cookie at Pier 70
    $7.00
  • Cashews at Pike Place Market
    $6.00
  • 6 Mini Donuts at Pike Place Market
    $3.25
  • Chinese Lunch in International District (for 2)
    $21
  • Breakfast at Lowel's in Pike Place Market (for 2)
    $32
  • Breakfast at French Cafe (for 2)
    $37

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Seattle

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Seattle.

  • Seattle : Fun Cooking Classes With Chef Seamus: $55
  • Seattle Delicious Donut Adventure & Walking Food Tour: $60
  • Pike Place Market: Walking Food Tour: $66
  • Chef Guided Food Tour of Pike Place Market- 2 Hours: $67
  • Pike Place Market Chef-Guided Food Tour: $67
  • International District Food Tour: $69
  • Ballard Waterfront Walking Food Tour: $75
  • Plant Based Food Tour in Pike Place Market: $79
  • Secret Food Tours: Seattle Pike Place Market: $86
  • Pike Place Market Food Tour: $99
  • Small Group Cooking Class: $138
  • Market to Table Tour and Cooking Class at Pike Place Market: $159

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Providence $26
    Seattle $16

Tours and Activities in Providence

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Providence.

  • Providence Scavenger Hunt: Providence Adventure: $12
  • Downtown Providence Self-Driving Audio Tour: $13
  • Providence, RI: Murder Mystery Detective Experience: $15
  • Murder Mystery Detective Experience Providence, RI: $15
  • Self-Driving Audio Tour: $15
  • Ghosts, Phantoms and Poltergeists Walking Tour: $26
  • Parasols and Pocket Watches: A History Tour: $30
  • Providence Ghosts Phantoms and Poltergeists Tour: $30
  • Haunted History Walking Tour of Providence: $30
  • Providence Mob Walking Tour: $33
  • Narrated Boat Tours: $38
  • Discover Providence Guided Sightseeing Tour: $40

Tours and Activities in Seattle

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Seattle are as follows:

  • 3 Hour Seattle City Tour: $90
  • 3 Hours Electric Bike Tour of Seattle's Waterways, Nature and Neighborhoods: $87
  • A Fun Day in Olympia: Rotunda tour: $253
  • Adult Pirate Party Cruise: $47
  • Bald Eagles Nesting Area Tour at Skagit River: $135
  • Beneath The Streets Underground History Tour: $29
  • Best of Seattle Small Group Walking Tour W/ Space Needle: $244
  • Boeing Factory Tour with Guided Transport from Seattle: $125
  • Customized Mount Rainier Tour from Seattle: $176
  • Discover the magic of Seattle (all inclusive 3 hour tour): $38
  • Downtown Seattle Self-Guided Walking Audio Tour: $9.99
  • Early-Bird Tasting Tour of Pike Place Market: $76

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Providence $13
    Seattle $16

Sample the Local Flavors in Seattle

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Seattle:

  • Guided Haunted Pub Crawl: $35
  • Seattle Terrors Boos and Booze Haunted Pub Crawl: $38
  • Woodinville's Downtown Wine Tasting Pass: $65
  • Woodinville Wine Country: Downtown Wine Tasting Pass: $65
  • Woodinville Wine Country: Artisan Hill Wine Tasting Pass: $65
  • Bon Vivant Woodinville Wine Tasting Tour : $120
  • Day Private Snoqualmie Falls & Woodinville Wine Tour from Seattle: $181
  • From Snoqualmie Falls & Woodinville Wine Tasting: $262


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


Which is Bigger, Providence or Seattle?

Seattle has a larger population, and is about 3 times larger than the population of Providence. When comparing the sizes of Providence 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 Providence 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 Providence or Seattle in the Summer?

Both Seattle and Providence during the summer are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Providence in the summer for the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, most visitors come to Seattle for the beaches, the hiking, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

Providence is a little warmer than Seattle in the summer. The daily temperature in Providence averages around 73°F (23°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 Providence. In the summer, Providence often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Seattle. Providence gets 293 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Seattle receives 313 hours of full sun.

Providence usually gets more rain in July than Seattle. Providence gets 2.8 inches (72 mm) of rain, while Seattle receives 0.9 inches (22 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Providence 73°F (23°C) 
    Seattle 67°F (19°C)

Should I visit Providence or Seattle in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Providence and Seattle. Most visitors come to Providence for the shopping scene during these months. Furthermore, the autumn months attract visitors to Seattle because of the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Providence is around the same temperature as Seattle. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Providence in October average around 53°F (12°C), and Seattle averages at about 54°F (12°C).

In Providence, it's very sunny this time of the year. Providence usually receives more sunshine than Seattle during autumn. Providence gets 211 hours of sunny skies, while Seattle receives 143 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Providence usually receives around the same amount of rain as Seattle. Providence gets 3.3 inches (83 mm) of rain, while Seattle receives 3.3 inches (83 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Providence 53°F (12°C) 
    Seattle 54°F (12°C)

Should I visit Providence or Seattle in the Winter?

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

The weather in Providence can be very cold. In January, Providence is generally much colder than Seattle. Daily temperatures in Providence average around 28°F (-2°C), and Seattle fluctuates around 42°F (5°C).

In the winter, Providence often gets more sunshine than Seattle. Providence gets 170 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Seattle receives 67 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Seattle. Providence usually gets less rain in January than Seattle. Providence gets 3.5 inches (89 mm) of rain, while Seattle receives 5.4 inches (136 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Providence 28°F (-2°C) 
    Seattle 42°F (5°C)

Should I visit Providence or Seattle in the Spring?

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

Providence is cooler than Seattle in the spring. The daily temperature in Providence averages around 48°F (9°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 Providence. Providence usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Seattle during spring. Providence gets 225 hours of sunny skies, while Seattle receives 212 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Providence usually receives more rain than Seattle. Providence gets 3.7 inches (94 mm) of rain, while Seattle receives 2.5 inches (64 mm) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Providence 48°F (9°C) 
    Seattle 51°F (11°C)

Typical Weather for Seattle and Providence

Providence Seattle
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 28°F (-2°C) 3.5 inches (89 mm) 42°F (5°C) 5.4 inches (136 mm)
Feb 30°F (-1°C) 3.5 inches (88 mm) 45°F (7°C) 4 inches (102 mm)
Mar 38°F (3°C) 4 inches (101 mm) 47°F (9°C) 3.8 inches (96 mm)
Apr 48°F (9°C) 3.7 inches (94 mm) 51°F (11°C) 2.5 inches (64 mm)
May 58°F (15°C) 3.5 inches (89 mm) 57°F (14°C) 1.9 inches (47 mm)
Jun 67°F (20°C) 2.6 inches (67 mm) 62°F (17°C) 1.6 inches (40 mm)
Jul 73°F (23°C) 2.8 inches (72 mm) 67°F (19°C) 0.9 inches (22 mm)
Aug 72°F (22°C) 3.9 inches (99 mm) 67°F (19°C) 1.2 inches (31 mm)
Sep 64°F (18°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm) 62°F (17°C) 1.9 inches (49 mm)
Oct 53°F (12°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm) 54°F (12°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm)
Nov 44°F (7°C) 4.5 inches (115 mm) 47°F (8°C) 5.7 inches (144 mm)
Dec 33°F (0°C) 4.1 inches (105 mm) 42°F (6°C) 6 inches (152 mm)