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

Should you visit Raleigh or Arlington?

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

Should I visit Raleigh or Arlington? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

Raleigh

Raleigh is a friendly, southern, and student-friendly city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food.

Arlington

Arlington is a educational, international, and historical city. Other popular activities here include shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Raleigh and Arlington: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with couples
  • Public transit not as usable
  • Less walkable
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good public transit
  • Very walkable
  • Home to Arlington National Cemetery


Is there more to do in Raleigh or Arlington?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Raleigh than Arlington. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Raleigh is very popular for its big city activities, while Arlington attracts visitors for its museums, food, nightlife, and shopping. Arlington is more touristy than Raleigh and is popular for its international connections, its biking and walking trails, and being the location of the Pentagon. Raleigh is famous for its many museums and being the home to North Carolina State University. It is also well known for North Carolina State University.

How is Raleigh different from Arlington?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Raleigh or Arlington?

Raleigh
Arlington

Arlington is well known for its museums and landmarks. Also, Raleigh is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historical sights.

Arlington offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. Arlington National Cemetery is where you'll find the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier as well as the tomb of John F. Kennedy Jr. There are many memorials around town, with the most famous being the U.S. Marine Corps Memorial. There are also several museums like the DEA Museum and the Museum of Contemporary Art.

Raleigh is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. As the state capital, there are a number of free museums in the area. There are also some kid-friendly options and other activities that are affiliated with the colleges and universities. Popular options include the NC Museum of Natural Sciences (free), the NC Museum of History (free), the NC Museum of Art (free), and Marbles Kids Museum.


Is the Food Better in Raleigh or Arlington? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Raleigh
Arlington

Arlington is well known for its restaurant scene. Also, Raleigh is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

Dining out in Arlington is an experience not to be missed. It's a global city, and the restaurants reflect that. You'll find amazing Thai, Japanese, and Mexican restaurants. There are also less common cuisines to choose from such as Ethiopian, Moroccan, and Peruvian.

There are plenty of up and coming restaurants around Raleigh. In addition to the standard chain restaurants, you'll find a number of local eateries with great southern dishes. Try some southern classics like barbecue, pimento cheese, and fried chicken and waffles. There are also good international options including Nepalese, Laotian, and Ethiopian flavors.

Is Raleigh or Arlington Better for Nightlife?

Raleigh
Arlington

Arlington is well known for its evening party scene. Also, Raleigh is still popular, but not quite as popular for nightlife.

Arlington is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. The city has a huge young population that drives the nightlife scene. There are clubs, bars, and lounges in many neighborhoods. There are also comedy clubs and plenty of live music.

If you're looking for night time activities Raleigh has a few options to choose from. Head to downtown Raleigh or the areas around NC State University for some of the best nightlife. Trivia nights and happy hours are popular and you'll find breweries popping up in many places.

Is the Shopping Better in Raleigh or Arlington?

Raleigh
Arlington

Arlington is a popular place for its shopping areas. However, Raleigh is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Many visitors go to Arlington to go shopping. Many neighborhoods have local shops or farmer's markets. There are also shopping centers and malls such as Ballston Quarter, The Crossing Clarendon, and The Village at Shirlington.

Raleigh is not a noteworthy shopping destination.


Is Raleigh or Arlington Better for Families?

Raleigh
Arlington

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Raleigh or Arlington.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Raleigh. For such a small city, Raleigh has a number of unique kid-friendly activities like the popular Pullen Park and Marbles Kids' Museum. Pullen Park has small rides and a playground that are perfect for young kids. There's also the NC Museum of Natural History which is free and fun to explore with kids.

Arlington offers lots of family activities. Kids will enjoy seeing the planes talk off from Gravelly Point park. There are also plenty of outdoor spaces and educational opportunities in the area, including world class museums.

Is Raleigh or Arlington Better for Couples?

Raleigh
Arlington

Arlington is a popular place for couples. However, Raleigh is not particularly known for romance.

Arlington is a good city for couples to visit. There's a vibrant cultural scene and many international restaurants that couples can enjoy. It's also a great place to take in a show or concert.

Raleigh is not the best destination for a couple to visit. While it's often overlooked by couples who want a weekend away, there are a number of museums and some nice restaurants to explore.

Is Raleigh or Arlington Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Raleigh
Arlington

Arlington is well known for backpackers. However, Raleigh is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

Arlington is a very popular city for backpackers and budget travelers. There are a couple of hostels and many free activities nearby. There's also great public transportation that makes for a convenient backpacker destination.

Raleigh is not a backpacker-friendly destination.


Is Raleigh or Arlington Better for Students?

Raleigh
Arlington

Raleigh and Arlington are very good places to visit for students.

Raleigh is a very popular city for students and younger travelers. The city has a diverse student population with many nearby universities and colleges.

Arlington is very popular with students. There are a huge number of colleges and museums in the area as well as many great internship and educational opportunities.

Is Raleigh or Arlington Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Raleigh
Arlington

Arlington is very popular for its public transit. However, Raleigh is not particularly known for times when you don't have a car.

Arlington has an effecient and thorough public transportation system which can take you anywhere in the city. There is a reliable bus system around town as well as many metro connections.

Public transit is quite limited in Raleigh. The city's public transportation options are limited to a few bus lines that are mostly used by students.

Is Raleigh or Arlington a more walkable city?

Raleigh
Arlington

Arlington is well known for its ease of walking around. However, Raleigh is not particularly known for its walkability.

Arlington is a very walkable destination. There are many pedestrian-friendly areas around town, particularly in the neighborhoods that are concentrated around metro stations.

Raleigh is generally not a very walkable city. The city is somewhat walkable in the downtown area, but everywhere else you'll need a car.


For even more information, also check out Is Raleigh Worth Visiting? and Is Arlington Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Arlington or Raleigh?

How long in Raleigh or Arlington?

It's fun to spend time in either Raleigh or Arlington. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Arlington due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Raleigh, and 2-4 days is enough time in Arlington.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Arlington than Raleigh 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 Arlington.


  • How many days in Raleigh or Arlington? Ideal Length of Stay
    Raleigh 2-3 
    Arlington 2-4

One day in Raleigh or Arlington?

You'll find food and museums around the city of Raleigh. 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 Arlington, 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.

A weekend in Raleigh or Arlington?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the student-friendly destination of Raleigh. 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.

In Arlington, 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 Arlington has to offer.

Five days in Raleigh or Arlington?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the suburban-style city of Raleigh. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Arlington 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.


A week in Raleigh or Arlington?

Raleigh 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Arlington. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Arlington. 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 3-Week Tours in United States of America, The Best Bicycle Tours in United States of America, Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in United States of America, and The Best Coach Bus Tours in United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Arlington or Raleigh?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Raleigh is $189, while the average daily cost in Arlington is $264. 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 Raleigh and Arlington in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Raleigh $104
    Arlington $131
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Raleigh $208
    Arlington $262
Compare Hotels in Raleigh and Arlington

Looking for a hotel in Raleigh or Arlington? 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 Raleigh


Hotels in Arlington


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: Raleigh Hotel Prices and Arlington Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Raleigh $37
    Arlington $49

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Raleigh

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Raleigh:

  • Raleigh-Durham Airport (RDU) to Raleigh Arrival Private Transfer: $59
  • Raleigh-Durham Airport (RDU) to Raleigh - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $119
  • Raleigh-Durham Airport (RDU) to Durham - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $126
  • Raleigh-Durham Airport (RDU) to Durham - Arrival Private Transfer: $63
  • Raleigh to Raleigh-Durham Airport (RDU) - Departure Private Transfer: $59
  • Durham to Raleigh-Durham Airport (RDU) - Departure Private Transfer: $63

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Arlington

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

  • Ronald Reagan DCA Airport Transfers: $160

Is it cheaper to fly into Raleigh or Arlington?

Prices for flights to both Arlington and Raleigh 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
    Raleigh $57
    Arlington $81
Typical Food Prices in Raleigh

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for food and meal costs in Raleigh:


  • The Pit Authentic BBQ (for 3)
    $84

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Raleigh

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

  • Private Cooking Class in Durham with an Expert Home Cook: $104

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Raleigh $37
    Arlington $11

Tours and Activities in Raleigh

Here are a few actual costs in Raleigh for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • Carolina Hurricanes Ice Hockey Game Ticket at PNC Arena: $68
  • Murder Mystery Detective Experience Chapel Hill, NC: $15
  • Private Pedicab Tour of Downtown Raleigh: $60
  • Raleigh African American History Tour: $13
  • Raleigh Downtown: Historic Walking Tours: $16
  • Raleigh Ghost and Urban Legend Tour: $16
  • Raleigh Ghosts and Ghouls Hauntings Tour: $30
  • Raleigh Historian-Guided Downtown Walking Tour: $16
  • Raleigh Puzzling Adventure: $35
  • Ghosts and Ghouls Hauntings Walking Tour: $26
  • Scavenger Hunt Adventure Self-Guided City Game: $10
  • True Crime History Guided Walking Tour: $16

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Raleigh $27
    Arlington $17


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

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


Which is Bigger, Raleigh or Arlington?

Raleigh has a larger population, and is about 49% larger than the population of Arlington. When comparing the sizes of Raleigh and Arlington, 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 Raleigh or Arlington?

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 Raleigh or Arlington in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Raleigh as well as Arlington. Many travelers come to Raleigh for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Arlington in the summer for the family-friendly experiences.

Raleigh is around the same temperature as Arlington in the summer. The daily temperature in Raleigh averages around 79°F (26°C) in July, and Arlington fluctuates around 79°F (26°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Arlington. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Raleigh this time of the year. In the summer, Raleigh often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Arlington. Raleigh gets 259 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Arlington receives 278 hours of full sun.

Raleigh receives a lot of rain in the summer. Raleigh usually gets more rain in July than Arlington. Raleigh gets 5.1 inches (129 mm) of rain, while Arlington receives 3.5 inches (88 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Raleigh 79°F (26°C) 
    Arlington 79°F (26°C)

Should I visit Raleigh or Arlington in the Autumn?

Both Arlington and Raleigh are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Raleigh in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions. Also, most visitors come to Arlington for the shopping scene during these months.

In the autumn, Raleigh is around the same temperature as Arlington. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Raleigh in October average around 61°F (16°C), and Arlington averages at about 60°F (15°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Raleigh. Raleigh usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Arlington during autumn. Raleigh gets 211 hours of sunny skies, while Arlington receives 197 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Raleigh usually receives around the same amount of rain as Arlington. Raleigh gets 2.8 inches (71 mm) of rain, while Arlington receives 2.9 inches (73 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Raleigh 61°F (16°C) 
    Arlington 60°F (15°C)

Should I visit Raleigh or Arlington in the Winter?

Both Arlington and Raleigh during the winter are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Raleigh for the museums and the cuisine during these months. Furthermore, the winter months attract visitors to Arlington because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

The weather in Arlington can be very cold. Raleigh can be very cold during winter. In January, Raleigh is generally much warmer than Arlington. Daily temperatures in Raleigh average around 40°F (5°C), and Arlington fluctuates around 35°F (1°C).

In the winter, Raleigh often gets more sunshine than Arlington. Raleigh gets 162 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Arlington receives 139 hours of full sun.

Raleigh usually gets more rain in January than Arlington. Raleigh gets 3.2 inches (82 mm) of rain, while Arlington receives 2.7 inches (68 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Raleigh 40°F (5°C) 
    Arlington 35°F (1°C)

Should I visit Raleigh or Arlington in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Raleigh and Arlington. The spring months attract visitors to Raleigh because of the activities around the city.

Raleigh is a little warmer than Arlington in the spring. The daily temperature in Raleigh averages around 60°F (16°C) in April, and Arlington fluctuates around 56°F (14°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Arlington this time of the year. In Raleigh, it's very sunny this time of the year. Raleigh usually receives more sunshine than Arlington during spring. Raleigh gets 251 hours of sunny skies, while Arlington receives 228 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Raleigh usually receives more rain than Arlington. Raleigh gets 3.1 inches (78 mm) of rain, while Arlington receives 2.8 inches (72 mm) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Raleigh 60°F (16°C) 
    Arlington 56°F (14°C)

Typical Weather for Arlington and Raleigh

Raleigh Arlington
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 40°F (5°C) 3.2 inches (82 mm) 35°F (1°C) 2.7 inches (68 mm)
Feb 43°F (6°C) 3.3 inches (84 mm) 37°F (3°C) 2.7 inches (69 mm)
Mar 52°F (11°C) 3.4 inches (87 mm) 47°F (8°C) 3.2 inches (82 mm)
Apr 60°F (16°C) 3.1 inches (78 mm) 56°F (14°C) 2.8 inches (72 mm)
May 68°F (20°C) 3.3 inches (84 mm) 66°F (19°C) 3.5 inches (89 mm)
Jun 76°F (24°C) 3.7 inches (93 mm) 75°F (24°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm)
Jul 79°F (26°C) 5.1 inches (129 mm) 79°F (26°C) 3.5 inches (88 mm)
Aug 78°F (26°C) 4.9 inches (125 mm) 78°F (26°C) 3.9 inches (98 mm)
Sep 73°F (23°C) 3.8 inches (96 mm) 71°F (22°C) 3.3 inches (85 mm)
Oct 61°F (16°C) 2.8 inches (71 mm) 60°F (15°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm)
Nov 53°F (11°C) 2.8 inches (72 mm) 50°F (10°C) 3.2 inches (82 mm)
Dec 44°F (7°C) 3.1 inches (78 mm) 39°F (4°C) 3.2 inches (82 mm)