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

Should you visit Raleigh or Providence?

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

Should I visit Raleigh or Providence? 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 student-friendly, suburban-style, and 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.

Providence

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

Raleigh and Providence: 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


Is there more to do in Raleigh or Providence?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Raleigh than Providence. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Raleigh is very popular for its big city activities, while Providence attracts visitors for its food and shopping. 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. Providence is famous for its outdoor parks, historic atmosphere, and college town vibe.

How is Raleigh different from Providence?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Raleigh
Providence

For an educational experience, head to a museum or a notable sight in either Raleigh or Providence.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Raleigh. 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.

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

Raleigh
Providence

Providence 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 Providence is an experience not to be missed. 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.

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 Providence Better for Nightlife?

Raleigh
Providence

Party-goers will find similar levels of energy in Raleigh and Providence.

Raleigh has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. 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.

If you're looking for night time activities Providence has a few options to choose from. 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 the Shopping Better in Raleigh or Providence?

Raleigh
Providence

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

Many visitors go to Providence to go shopping. Malls, shopping centers, and boutiques all offer a range of shopping experiences around town.

Raleigh is not a noteworthy shopping destination.


Is Raleigh or Providence Better for Families?

Raleigh
Providence

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Raleigh or Providence.

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.

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.

Is Raleigh or Providence Better for Couples?

Raleigh
Providence

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

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.

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 Providence Better for Students?

Raleigh
Providence

Raleigh and Providence are superb 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.

Providence is very popular with students. 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.


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

Raleigh
Providence

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

You'll find some public transit in Providence, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There are RIPTA buses that travel around town.

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 Providence a more walkable city?

Raleigh
Providence

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

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

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 Providence Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Providence or Raleigh?

How long in Raleigh or Providence?

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

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

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

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


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

One day in Raleigh or Providence?

With museums and nightlife around the suburban-style city of Raleigh, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

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.


A weekend in Raleigh or Providence?

With nightlife and food around the destination of Raleigh, there's plenty to do. It offers something for everyone. Many people spend a weekend here. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this city.

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.

Five days in Raleigh or Providence?

Raleigh, a popular city, is full of activities for travelers. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

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.

A week in Raleigh or Providence?

Raleigh 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.

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.


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, Providence 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 Providence is $210. 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 Providence in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Raleigh $104
    Providence $114
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Raleigh $208
    Providence $228
Compare Hotels in Raleigh and Providence

Looking for a hotel in Raleigh or Providence? 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 Providence


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 Providence Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Raleigh $37
    Providence $46

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Raleigh

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Raleigh:

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

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Providence

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

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

Is it cheaper to fly into Raleigh or Providence?

Prices for flights to both Providence 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
    Providence $48
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

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

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Raleigh $37
    Providence $26

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

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

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Raleigh $27
    Providence $13


When comparing the travel costs between Raleigh and Providence, 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 Raleigh Expensive? and Is Providence Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Raleigh or Providence?

Raleigh has a larger population, and is about 55% larger than the population of Providence. When comparing the sizes of Raleigh and Providence, 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 Providence?

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 Providence in the Summer?

Both Providence and Raleigh during the summer are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Raleigh for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Furthermore, the summer months attract visitors to Providence because of the family-friendly experiences.

Raleigh is a little warmer than Providence in the summer. The daily temperature in Raleigh averages around 79°F (26°C) in July, and Providence fluctuates around 73°F (23°C).

In Providence, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Raleigh. In the summer, Raleigh often gets less sunshine than Providence. Raleigh gets 259 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Providence receives 293 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Raleigh. Raleigh usually gets more rain in July than Providence. Raleigh gets 5.1 inches (129 mm) of rain, while Providence receives 2.8 inches (72 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Raleigh 79°F (26°C) 
    Providence 73°F (23°C)

Should I visit Raleigh or Providence in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Raleigh and Providence. The autumn months attract visitors to Raleigh because of the city's sights and attractions. Furthermore, the shopping scene are the main draw to Providence this time of year.

In the autumn, Raleigh is a little warmer than Providence. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Raleigh in October average around 61°F (16°C), and Providence averages at about 53°F (12°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Providence this time of the year. In Raleigh, it's very sunny this time of the year. Raleigh usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Providence during autumn. Raleigh gets 211 hours of sunny skies, while Providence receives 211 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Raleigh usually receives less rain than Providence. Raleigh gets 2.8 inches (71 mm) of rain, while Providence receives 3.3 inches (83 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Raleigh 61°F (16°C) 
    Providence 53°F (12°C)

Should I visit Raleigh or Providence in the Winter?

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

Be prepared for some very cold days in Providence. It's quite cold in Raleigh in the winter. In January, Raleigh is generally much warmer than Providence. Daily temperatures in Raleigh average around 40°F (5°C), and Providence fluctuates around 28°F (-2°C).

In the winter, Raleigh often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Providence. Raleigh gets 162 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Providence receives 170 hours of full sun.

Raleigh usually gets less rain in January than Providence. Raleigh gets 3.2 inches (82 mm) of rain, while Providence receives 3.5 inches (89 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Raleigh 40°F (5°C) 
    Providence 28°F (-2°C)

Should I visit Raleigh or Providence in the Spring?

Both Providence and Raleigh are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Raleigh for the activities around the city.

Raleigh is much warmer than Providence in the spring. The daily temperature in Raleigh averages around 60°F (16°C) in April, and Providence fluctuates around 48°F (9°C).

It's quite sunny in Providence. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Raleigh. Raleigh usually receives more sunshine than Providence during spring. Raleigh gets 251 hours of sunny skies, while Providence receives 225 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Raleigh usually receives less rain than Providence. Raleigh gets 3.1 inches (78 mm) of rain, while Providence receives 3.7 inches (94 mm) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Raleigh 60°F (16°C) 
    Providence 48°F (9°C)

Typical Weather for Providence and Raleigh

Raleigh Providence
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 40°F (5°C) 3.2 inches (82 mm) 28°F (-2°C) 3.5 inches (89 mm)
Feb 43°F (6°C) 3.3 inches (84 mm) 30°F (-1°C) 3.5 inches (88 mm)
Mar 52°F (11°C) 3.4 inches (87 mm) 38°F (3°C) 4 inches (101 mm)
Apr 60°F (16°C) 3.1 inches (78 mm) 48°F (9°C) 3.7 inches (94 mm)
May 68°F (20°C) 3.3 inches (84 mm) 58°F (15°C) 3.5 inches (89 mm)
Jun 76°F (24°C) 3.7 inches (93 mm) 67°F (20°C) 2.6 inches (67 mm)
Jul 79°F (26°C) 5.1 inches (129 mm) 73°F (23°C) 2.8 inches (72 mm)
Aug 78°F (26°C) 4.9 inches (125 mm) 72°F (22°C) 3.9 inches (99 mm)
Sep 73°F (23°C) 3.8 inches (96 mm) 64°F (18°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm)
Oct 61°F (16°C) 2.8 inches (71 mm) 53°F (12°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm)
Nov 53°F (11°C) 2.8 inches (72 mm) 44°F (7°C) 4.5 inches (115 mm)
Dec 44°F (7°C) 3.1 inches (78 mm) 33°F (0°C) 4.1 inches (105 mm)