A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Saint Louis vs. Hood River for Attractions, Food, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Saint Louis or Hood River?

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 Saint Louis and Hood River. 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.

Saint Louis

Saint Louis is a unexpected, fascinating, and under rated city. Visitors also love the food, shopping, and museums.

Hood River

Hood River is a quaint, scenic, and charming town. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for nightlife, food, and hiking.

Saint Louis and Hood River: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Saint Louis or Hood River?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Hood River. Although Saint Louis and Hood River are popular destinations, Hood River has more sights and attractions for tourists. Hood River is very popular for its skiing, food, hiking, and impressive beauty, while Saint Louis attracts visitors for its museums and shopping. Hood River is more touristy than Saint Louis and is popular for its waterfalls, wineries, and impressive mountains. It is also well known for Multnomah Falls. Saint Louis is famous for its blues and live music scene, its authentic personality, and its position as the Gateway to the West.

How is Saint Louis different from Hood River?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Saint Louis or Hood River Better for Skiing?

Hood River is a good destination for winter skiing. However, Saint Louis is not a skiing destination.

Hood River is a great destination for skiing with plenty areas to explore. During the winter months, Hood River makes a nice base for nearby skiing. Timberline and Cooper Spur and both less than an hour away and offer great skiing opportunities.

Saint Louis is not a skiing destination.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Saint Louis or Hood River?

Saint Louis is an unbeatable place for its museums and history. However, Hood River is lacking in good options for its museums and landmarks.

The museums and tourist attractions in Saint Louis are world-renowned. There are a surprising number of museums around town. For art museums you should visit the Contemporary Art Museum, the Mildred Lane Kemper Art Museum, the Saint Louis Art Museum, and the International Photography Hall of Fame and Museum. For history, the Griot Museum of Black History, the Jefferson Barracks Telephone Museum, and the Lewis & Clark Museum and Boathouse are all interesting. There are also science, educational, and children's museums. And of course, there's the iconic Gateway Arch.

Hood River offers a handful of options for museums and historical sights. There are a couple of interesting museums in town such as the Western Antique Aeroplane and Automoblie Museum, the History Museum, and 301 Gallery.

Is the Food Better in Saint Louis or Hood River? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Hood River is well known for its restaurant scene. Also, Saint Louis is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Hood River makes for a great culinary experience. Head to the downtown or waterfront areas for the best selection of restaurants. Most restaurants pride themselves on using local ingredients and supporting local farms. Dishes use fresh and healthy ingredients that make simple but high quality meals.

Saint Louis has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. There are some local dishes that originated here. Toasted ravioli had its start in St. Louis. There's also a St. Louis style pizza. Diners, cafes, and sandwiches are all part of the food scene and be prepared for cheese, meaty, and satisfying.

Is Saint Louis or Hood River Better for Nightlife?

Party-goers will find similar levels of energy in Saint Louis and Hood River.

Saint Louis has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. Visitors often hang out in the downtown area, particularly around Washington Avenue, for the nightlife scene. Live music is popular, especially the blues, and there are many local venues worth checking out.

If you're looking for night time activities Hood River has a few options to choose from. There are breweries, wineries, and local bars in the area that offer a laid back place where you can enjoy the local atmosphere.

Is Saint Louis or Hood River Better for Hiking?

Hood River is well known for its hiking experiences. However, Saint Louis is not a hiking destination.

You'll find a nice variety of hiking trails around Hood River. There's a diversity of landscapes in the area that include waterfalls, agriculture, vineyards, and high-reaching mountain peaks. The best way to experience these is through the many hiking trails. Drive along the Historic Columbia River Highway and stop off at the trails that lead to the waterfalls, or head south of town to explore the vineyards on foot, and to the north where you'll find mountain peaks.

Saint Louis is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Saint Louis or Hood River?

Saint Louis is a very popular place for its shopping opportunities. Also, Hood River is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its shopping areas.

Saint Louis is well-known for its shopping. There are vintage stores, boutiques, and suburban strip malls around town. There are also farmer's markets and art galleries.

Many visitors go to Hood River to go shopping. Local shops sell local produce, artisan crafts, and wine. There are boutiques and independent vendors that are fun to visit and many visitors enjoy spending an afternoon shopping.

Is Saint Louis or Hood River Better for Families?

Both Saint Louis and Hood River are superb family-friendly destinations.

Saint Louis is a very family-friendly place to visit. There's a surprising number of activities for kids around town. There's the St. Louis Zoo and the City Museum with many hands-on exhibits for kids. There's also the Crown Ridge Tiger Sanctuary and several farms with animals and nature. Forest Park is an impressive urban park as well.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Hood River is very family-friendly. The area is filled with outdoor adventures that the whole family can enjoy. There's swimming, tubing, hiking, and even windsurfing. Make sure you check out the Waterfront Park and Powerdale Substation.

Is Saint Louis or Hood River Better for Couples?

Hood River is well known for romance. Also, Saint Louis is still popular, but not quite as popular for its romantic activities.

Couples visit Hood River frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. Couples will enjoy the scenic natural setting and charming hotels and bed and breakfasts in the area. There are romantic hikes, local wineries, and many great restaurants that you can try.

Saint Louis makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Fine dining restaurants and eclectic activities make this city an often overlooked couples destination.

Is Saint Louis or Hood River Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Hood River is well known for backpackers. However, Saint Louis is not particularly known for backpackers and budget travelers.

Backpackers come from all over to visit Hood River. There are a couple of hostels and some nice campgrounds in the area as well as many great hikes and a laid back atmosphere that backpackers appreciate.

Saint Louis is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. There are a number of affordable motels around town but no real hostels.

Is Saint Louis or Hood River Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Saint Louis is a very popular place for times when you don't have a car. However, Hood River is lacking in good options for its public transit.

The public transit in Saint Louis can get you around easily. There's a light rail system as well as buses that travel around town.

Public transit is generally limited in Hood River. There are buses in the area but you really need your own transportation to see the region efficiently.

Is Saint Louis or Hood River a more walkable city?

Saint Louis is a popular place for its high level of walkability. However, Hood River is lacking in good options for its ease of walking around.

Saint Louis is a somewhat walkable place. Parts of the city are walkable, like the downtown area and the sections around the Gateway Arch.

Hood River is generally not very walkable. While there are parts of the town that are walkable, if you don't have a car you'll miss out on the surrounding natural landscapes and most of the hiking opportunities.

For even more information, also check out Is Saint Louis Worth Visiting? and Is Hood River Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Hood River or Saint Louis?

How long in Saint Louis or Hood River?

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Hood River than Saint Louis 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 Hood River.

One day in Saint Louis or Hood River?

With museums and nightlife around the under rated city of Saint Louis, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. One of the main draws to the area is the museums. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Saint Louis, one day is sufficent for most.

Visitors enjoy the skiing and nightlife when visiting the quaint town of Hood River. Hikers are also drawn to this area. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A weekend in Saint Louis or Hood River?

With nightlife and food around the destination of Saint Louis, there's plenty to do. It offers something for everyone. Many people spend a weekend here. One of the main draws to the area is the museums. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this city.

Visitors enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the quaint destination of Hood River. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. This town offers something for everyone. Plenty of people spend a weekend in the area when traveling. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

Five days in Saint Louis or Hood River?

Saint Louis, 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.

The charming town of Hood River offers food and shopping. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

A week in Saint Louis or Hood River?

Saint Louis is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. One of the main draws to the area is the museums. 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.

Many people enjoy the shopping and skiing when visiting Hood River. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Walking Tours in United States of America, The Best Tours Under $1000 in United States of America, The Best Luxury Tours to United States of America, and The Best Tours for Seniors to United States of America.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Saint Louis or Hood River?

Saint Louis has a larger population, and is about 50 times larger than the population of Hood River. When comparing the sizes of Saint Louis and Hood River, 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 Saint Louis or Hood River?

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 Saint Louis or Hood River in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Saint Louis as well as Hood River. The family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Saint Louis this time of year. Additionally, many travelers come to Hood River for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Saint Louis is a little warmer than Hood River. Typically, the summer temperatures in Saint Louis in July average around 81°F (27°C), and Hood River averages at about 68°F (20°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Hood River. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Saint Louis this time of the year. In the summer, Saint Louis often gets less sunshine than Hood River. Saint Louis gets 309 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Hood River receives 338 hours of full sun.

Saint Louis usually gets more rain in July than Hood River. Saint Louis gets 3.8 inches (96 mm) of rain, while Hood River receives 0.7 inches (18 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Saint Louis or Hood River in the Autumn?

Both Hood River and Saint Louis are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Saint Louis for the shopping scene. Also, many visitors come to Hood River in the autumn for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Saint Louis is generally a little warmer than Hood River. Daily temperatures in Saint Louis average around 60°F (16°C), and Hood River fluctuates around 55°F (13°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Saint Louis. Saint Louis usually receives more sunshine than Hood River during autumn. Saint Louis gets 203 hours of sunny skies, while Hood River receives 155 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Saint Louis usually receives around the same amount of rain as Hood River. Saint Louis gets 2.7 inches (68 mm) of rain, while Hood River receives 2.6 inches (67 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Saint Louis or Hood River in the Winter?

Both Hood River and Saint Louis during the winter are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Saint Louis in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Hood River for the skiing, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Hood River can be very cold during winter. Saint Louis can get quite cold in the winter. Saint Louis is much colder than Hood River in the winter. The daily temperature in Saint Louis averages around 31°F (-1°C) in January, and Hood River fluctuates around 40°F (4°C).

In the winter, Saint Louis often gets more sunshine than Hood River. Saint Louis gets 160 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Hood River receives 86 hours of full sun.

Hood River gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Saint Louis usually gets less rain in January than Hood River. Saint Louis gets 2 inches (52 mm) of rain, while Hood River receives 5.2 inches (132 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Saint Louis or Hood River in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Saint Louis and Hood River. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Hood River because of the natural beauty.

In the spring, Saint Louis is a little warmer than Hood River. Typically, the spring temperatures in Saint Louis in April average around 58°F (15°C), and Hood River averages at about 51°F (11°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Hood River this time of the year. In Saint Louis, it's very sunny this time of the year. Saint Louis usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Hood River during spring. Saint Louis gets 229 hours of sunny skies, while Hood River receives 231 hours of full sun in the spring.

Saint Louis gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In April, Saint Louis usually receives more rain than Hood River. Saint Louis gets 4.4 inches (111 mm) of rain, while Hood River receives 2.4 inches (61 mm) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Hood River and Saint Louis