A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Saint Louis vs. New York City for Attractions, Food, Nightlife, and Couples

Should you visit Saint Louis or New York City?

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 New York City. 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 under rated, unexpected, and fascinating city. Other reasons to visit include food, shopping, and museums.

New York City

New York City is a vibrant, energetic, and cosmopolitan city. It's an amazing and huge city with tons of activities and things to do. It's a gorgeous place to visit. It's also known for nightlife, live music, and food.

Saint Louis and New York City: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Saint Louis or New York City?

Travelers will usually find more to do in New York City than Saint Louis, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. New York City is more touristy than Saint Louis and is popular for its high-reaching skyscrapers, iconic landmarks, world-class theater scene, and endless energy. It is also home to The Statue of Liberty. Saint Louis is popular 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 New York City?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Saint Louis or New York City?

Both Saint Louis and New York City have terrific landmarks and museums for visitors.

Visitors will find world class museums and historical sights in Saint Louis that are not to be missed. 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.

The museums and tourist attractions in New York City are world-renowned. The sights and museums around the city are too numerous to list, but some of the most famous include the Statue of Liberty, the Metropolitan Museum of Art, the Museum of Modern Art, Central Park, and the Empire State Building. This is a city that is filled with iconic landmarks and you could spend weeks here and still not see it all.

Is Saint Louis or New York City Better for Theater?

New York City is an amazing city to visit for theatre. However, Saint Louis is not a theatre destination.

New York City is considered to be a world-class theater destination. Visiting Broadway is a quintessential NYC experience. Whether you enjoy the theater or simply want to experience something new, seeing a Broadway show is a true bucket list activity.

Saint Louis is not a theatre destination.

Is the Food Better in Saint Louis or New York City? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

New York City is an amazing city to visit for its restaurant scene. Also, Saint Louis is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

Eat your way through New York City, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. The city has a diverse variety of restaurants, with everything from local dives to Michelin star options. There are many neighborhoods that are notable for their ethnic cuisine, particularly Little Italy and Chinatown. Quintessential NYC dishes include NYC pizza, NYC hot dogs, bagels, and Chinese dim sum.

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 New York City Better for Nightlife?

New York City is an amazing city to visit for nightlife. Also, Saint Louis is still popular, but not quite as popular for nightlife and partying.

New York City has a colorful and one-of-a-kind nightlife scene. Known as the city that never sleeps, you can be assured that NYC has some of the best nightlife in the world. There are world class bars and clubs, but also local venues that have a more relaxed atmosphere. Several famous clubs include Paul's Cocktail Lounge, Le Bain, and Avant Gardner.

If you're looking for night time activities Saint Louis has a few options to choose from. 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.

Is Saint Louis or New York City Better for Music?

New York City is an amazing city to visit for live music. However, Saint Louis is not a live music destination.

New York City is a world class music destination. Popular music venues include Music Hall of Williamsburg, Radio City Music Hall, Beacon Theatre, and Forest Hills Stadium.

Saint Louis is not a live music destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Saint Louis or New York City?

New York City is an amazing city to visit for shopping. Also, Saint Louis is still popular, but not quite as popular for its shopping opportunities.

New York City is a famous shopping destination with plenty of stores. The shopping is as diverse as the city itself. Head for Fifth Avenue for high end shopping or check out any of the many street markets for local items. New York is known for its many flea markets where you can find vintage items at a good price. And if you're looking to pick up a souvenir shirt or knick knack, there are plenty of souvenir shops around town as well.

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.

Is Saint Louis or New York City Better for Christmas?

New York City is an amazing city to visit for its Christmas activities. However, Saint Louis does not offer Christmas activities.

During Christmas, New York City is not to be missed. Christmas in the city is a quintessential experience. From the Christmas tree and ice skating at Rockefeller Center to seeing a live performance of the Nutcracker, everyone enjoys the holidays in New York.

Saint Louis does not offer Christmas activities.

Is Saint Louis or New York City Better for Christmas Markets?

New York City is well known for its Christmas markets. However, Saint Louis does not offer Christmas markets.

The Christmas markets in New York City offer plenty to see during the holidays. There are a number of Christmas markets that pop up around town during the holiday season. Nothing will get you more in the holiday spirit than wandering these unique venues.

Saint Louis does not offer Christmas markets.

Is Saint Louis or New York City Better for Families?

Both Saint Louis and New York City are excellent 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, New York City is very family-friendly. The city has many activities for kids of all ages including world class museums, beautifully designed playgrounds, and theater shows designed just for young ones. There are many kid-friendly restaurants as well and older kids will enjoy visiting the iconic landmarks in this world-class city.

Is Saint Louis or New York City Better for Couples?

New York City is an amazing city to visit for romance. Also, Saint Louis is still popular, but not quite as popular for its romantic activities.

New York City is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. From a beautiful carriage ride through Central Park, to a romantic river cruise at night, there is an endless list of unique activities that couples can enjoy in the city. Whether you're interested in theater, the arts, music, or nightlife, this city has it all.

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 New York City Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

New York City is well known for backpackers. However, Saint Louis is not particularly known for backpackers and budget travelers.

Backpackers come from all over to visit New York City. It isn't a particularly budget-friendly destination, but it does get its share of backpackers, so you'll find a nice list of hostels and affordable hangouts that are perfect for the backpacker crowd. This is probably one of the most popular cities for backpackers in the entire United States.

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 New York City Better for Students?

New York City is an amazing city to visit for students. However, Saint Louis is not popular with students.

New York City is a very popular place to visit for students. The city has a diverse population, and international students will feel right at home here exploring the city. There are also plenty of major universities including NYU, Columbia University, and Cornell University.

Saint Louis is not popular with students.

Is Saint Louis or New York City Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

New York City is an amazing city to visit for its public transit. Also, Saint Louis is still popular, but not quite as popular for times when you don't have a car.

Public transit in New York City is top-notch. The city has one of the largest subway systems in the world. There's also an elaborate bus system, ferry system, and yellow taxis all around town.

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.

Is Saint Louis or New York City a more walkable city?

New York City is an amazing city to visit for its walkability. Also, Saint Louis is still popular, but not quite as popular for its high level of walkability.

Getting around New York City on foot is easy. The majority of the neighborhoods in Manhattan are very walkable and easy to explore on foot. Most people prefer not to drive here as it can be overwhelming and chaotic.

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

For even more information, also check out Is Saint Louis Worth Visiting? and Is New York City Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in New York City or Saint Louis?

How long in Saint Louis or New York City?

Both Saint Louis and New York City have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in New York City than in Saint Louis. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Saint Louis, and 3-7 days is enough time in New York City.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in New York City 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 New York City.

One day in Saint Louis or New York City?

Many travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the fascinating destination of Saint Louis. Don't miss the museums, as that's what most people do. Your budget might influence how long you stay. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then one day is just the right amount of time to spend here.

New York City is a one-of-a-kind city where you can fill many days. 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 New York City?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Saint Louis. Don't miss the museums, as that's what most people do. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. A weekend is usually enough time to experience most activities.

New York City is a energetic big city where you can fill many days. This city offers something for everyone. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

Five days in Saint Louis or New York City?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the unexpected destination of Saint Louis. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Five days 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.

New York City is a energetic city where you can fill many days. Many people spend five days here.If you enjoy all that's offered here, then five days is just the right amount of time to spend here. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

A week in Saint Louis or New York City?

You'll find food and shopping around the city of Saint Louis. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

New York City is a big city destination where you can fill many days. Anyone can find something fun to do here. This is a popular place to visit for one week. In one week, you should have a good grasp of this city.

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 New York City, we can see that New York City is more expensive. And not only is Saint Louis much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Saint Louis would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Saint Louis 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 New York City would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in New York City than you might in Saint Louis.

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 New York City Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Saint Louis or New York City?

New York City has a larger population, and is about 20 times larger than the population of Saint Louis. When comparing the sizes of Saint Louis and New York City, 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 New York City?

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 New York City in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Saint Louis as well as New York City. The summer months attract visitors to Saint Louis because of the family-friendly experiences. Also, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to New York City this time of year.

Saint Louis is around the same temperature as New York City in the summer. The daily temperature in Saint Louis averages around 81°F (27°C) in July, and New York City fluctuates around 77°F (25°C).

It's quite rainy in New York City. Saint Louis usually gets less rain in July than New York City. Saint Louis gets 3.8 inches (96 mm) of rain, while New York City receives 4.5 inches (114 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Saint Louis or New York City in the Autumn?

Both New York City and Saint Louis are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The shopping scene are the main draw to Saint Louis this time of year. Also, many travelers come to New York City for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Saint Louis is a little warmer than New York City. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Saint Louis in October average around 60°F (16°C), and New York City averages at about 57°F (14°C).

In October, Saint Louis usually receives less rain than New York City. Saint Louis gets 2.7 inches (68 mm) of rain, while New York City receives 3.1 inches (78 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Saint Louis or New York City in the Winter?

Both New York City and Saint Louis during the winter are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Saint Louis for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Furthermore, many visitors come to New York City in the winter for the museums, the Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine.

New York City can get quite cold in the winter. Be prepared for some very cold days in Saint Louis. In January, Saint Louis is generally a little warmer than New York City. Daily temperatures in Saint Louis average around 31°F (-1°C), and New York City fluctuates around 31°F (-1°C).

Saint Louis usually gets less rain in January than New York City. Saint Louis gets 2 inches (52 mm) of rain, while New York City receives 3.4 inches (86 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Saint Louis or New York City in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Saint Louis and New York City. Furthermore, most visitors come to New York City for the activities around the city and the natural beauty during these months.

Saint Louis is a little warmer than New York City in the spring. The daily temperature in Saint Louis averages around 58°F (15°C) in April, and New York City fluctuates around 52°F (11°C).

Saint Louis gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In April, Saint Louis usually receives more rain than New York City. Saint Louis gets 4.4 inches (111 mm) of rain, while New York City receives 3.8 inches (98 mm) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for New York City and Saint Louis