A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Saint Louis vs. San Diego for Attractions, Families, Couples, and Nightlife

Should you visit Saint Louis or San Diego?

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 San Diego. 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 museums, nightlife, and food.

San Diego

San Diego is a relaxed, outdoorsy, and idyllic coastal city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. It's a gorgeous place to visit. This is a quaint and attractive place to visit, too. It's also known for food, scuba diving and snorkeling, and beaches.

Saint Louis and San Diego: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Saint Louis or San Diego?

Tourists will generally find more to do in San Diego than Saint Louis. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. San Diego is very popular for its nightlife, music, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, big city activities, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere, while Saint Louis attracts visitors for its museums and shopping. San Diego is more touristy than Saint Louis and is popular for its relaxed coastal atmosphere, its many kid-friendly sights, and its beautiful beaches with critter-filled tidal pools. It is also well known for The San Diego Zoo. 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 San Diego?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Saint Louis is renowned for its historical sights. Also, San Diego is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal city for its sights and museums.

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.

San Diego offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. While the city is famous for it's beaches, zoos, and aquariums, don't overlook the museums and other landmarks. Popular options include the Midway Aircraft Carrier Museum, the Old Town State Historic Park, and Point Loma and Cabrillo Monument.

Is the Food Better in Saint Louis or San Diego? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Picking the best cuisine and restaurants between Saint Louis and San Diego can be difficult as they are each nice in their own way.

Saint Louis offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. 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.

San Diego has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. The city has great seafood and a diversity of cuisines. There are many casual dining options that serve informal foods like burgers or salads, but there are also award-winning fine dining restaurants with elegant atmospheres. Popular local dishes include fish tacos and California burritos.

Is Saint Louis or San Diego Better for Nightlife?

San Diego is well known for nightlife. Also, Saint Louis is still popular, but not quite as popular for nightlife and partying.

San Diego is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. The heart of the city's nightlife scene is in the Gaslamp District, which is filled with bars, clubs, and music venues. There's a young student population that keeps the nightlife scene casual and fun.

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 San Diego Better for Music?

San Diego is well known for live music. However, Saint Louis is not a live music destination.

Music is a popular form of entertainment in San Diego. Popular venues include the House of Blues, The Belly Up, and The Shout House.

Saint Louis is not a live music destination.

Is Saint Louis or San Diego Better for Resorts?

San Diego is a good destination for its resorts. However, Saint Louis is not a resort destination.

San Diego has a handful of resorts to choose from. Most people prefer to stay in hotels or VRBOs, but several popular resorts include Fairmont Grand Del Mar, Paradise Point, and the famous Hotel del Coronado.

Saint Louis is not a resort destination.

Is Saint Louis or San Diego Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

San Diego is a good destination for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Saint Louis is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Grab a mask and fins and explore the underwater scenery in San Diego. Popular snorkeling and diving spots include La Jolla Cove, Mission Bay, and Turtle Town. The water's a bit chili, but it's still worth going for a dive or popping on a mask and snorkeling around for a bit.

Saint Louis is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Saint Louis or San Diego Better for Beaches?

San Diego is an amazing coastal city to visit for its beaches. However, Saint Louis is not a beach destination.

San Diego offers stunning beaches that attract visitors from around the world. The city has great beaches with tidal pools and interesting sea life at low tide. Adults and kids alike will enjoy hitting the beach when the tides are out and looking for local critters in the tidal pools. Popular beaches in the area include La Jolla Cove Beach, Coronado Beach, and Pacific Beach.

Saint Louis is not a beach destination.

Is Saint Louis or San Diego Better for Hiking?

San Diego 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 San Diego. The city is filled with parks and has tons of natural beauty. There is plenty of urban hiking in town, or you can visit more natural areas just out of town. Head to Torrey Pines State Park or Los Penasquitos Canyon Trail for some nice hikes.

Saint Louis is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Saint Louis or San Diego?

Saint Louis is great for its shopping opportunities. Also, San Diego is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal city 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 San Diego to go shopping. Head to Fashion Valley or Westfield UTC for some fun shopping. There are suburban shopping malls in the area as well as souvenir shops in the more touristy areas.

Is Saint Louis or San Diego Better for Families?

San Diego is an amazing coastal city to visit for its family-friendly activities. Also, Saint Louis is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

With a huge array of activities for kids, San Diego is very family-friendly. The city is filled with kid-friendly activities that everyone can enjoy. There's the world-class zoo, several amusement parks, the beaches, aquariums, and more. The year-round warm weather makes it easy to spend plenty of time outdoors in parks, playgrounds, and beaches where kids can stretch their legs and run around.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Saint Louis is very family-friendly. 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.

Is Saint Louis or San Diego Better for Couples?

San Diego is an amazing coastal city to visit for romance. Also, Saint Louis is still popular, but not quite as popular for its romantic activities.

San Diego is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. For adventurous couples, there are many outdoor activities that you can enjoy together. The beaches offer a great playground for adults who enjoy the water and warm weather. There are also restaurants and a great nightlife in San Diego.

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 San Diego Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

San Diego is a good destination for backpackers. However, Saint Louis is not particularly known for backpackers and budget travelers.

Plenty of backpackers visit San Diego. Backpackers will enjoy the young vibe of the city. There are a few great hostels near the beach or in town.

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 San Diego Better for Students?

San Diego is an amazing coastal city to visit for students. However, Saint Louis is not popular with students.

San Diego is a very popular place to visit for students. With its young population and many universities, international students will feel right at home in San Diego. There are also many great outdoor activities for the adventurous.

Saint Louis is not popular with students.

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

Saint Louis is great for times when you don't have a car. However, San Diego is not a good destination 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 San Diego. The city has a trolley (light rail system) as well as a bus system. Most people depend on cars to get around, and you'll likely enjoy your trip a bit more if you have your own vehicle.

Is Saint Louis or San Diego a more walkable city?

Saint Louis and San Diego both are nice when exploring on foot.

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

San Diego is a somewhat walkable place. The downtown area is walkable, but if you want to travel further, you'll need to find a different form of transportation.

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

Should I spend more time in San Diego or Saint Louis?

How long in Saint Louis or San Diego?

In either Saint Louis or San Diego, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in San Diego than Saint Louis because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Saint Louis, and 3-5 days is enough time in San Diego.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in San Diego 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 San Diego.

One day in Saint Louis or San Diego?

You'll find shopping and museums around the city of Saint Louis. One day is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Saint Louis has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Visitors enjoy the nightlife and live music when visiting the relaxed coastal city of San Diego. It's also a great beach destination, too. Most people visit for the beaches. 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 San Diego?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the under rated destination of Saint Louis. 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.

Visitors enjoy the live music and food when visiting the dynamic destination of San Diego. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. This coastal 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 San Diego?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the unexpected city of Saint Louis. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Most people head to the area for the museums. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Visitors enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling when visiting the relaxed coastal city of San Diego. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. 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 San Diego?

Saint Louis 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.

Many people enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping when visiting San Diego. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Most people come for the beaches. Most people visit for the beaches. 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 comparing the travel costs between Saint Louis and San Diego, we can see that San Diego 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 Saint Louis Expensive? and Is San Diego Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Saint Louis or San Diego?

San Diego has a larger population, and is about 4 times larger than the population of Saint Louis. When comparing the sizes of Saint Louis and San Diego, 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 San Diego?

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 San Diego in the Summer?

Both San Diego and Saint Louis during the summer are popular places to visit. The summer months attract visitors to Saint Louis because of the family-friendly experiences. Also, the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to San Diego this time of year.

In the summer, Saint Louis is a little warmer than San Diego. Typically, the summer temperatures in Saint Louis in July average around 81°F (27°C), and San Diego averages at about 71°F (22°C).

In San Diego, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Saint Louis. In the summer, Saint Louis often gets around the same amount of sunshine as San Diego. Saint Louis gets 309 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while San Diego receives 306 hours of full sun.

Saint Louis usually gets more rain in July than San Diego. Saint Louis gets 3.8 inches (96 mm) of rain, while San Diego receives 0 inches (1 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Saint Louis or San Diego in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Saint Louis and San Diego. The shopping scene are the main draw to Saint Louis this time of year. Also, many travelers come to San Diego for the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Saint Louis is generally cooler than San Diego. Daily temperatures in Saint Louis average around 60°F (16°C), and San Diego fluctuates around 68°F (20°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in San Diego this time of the year. In Saint Louis, it's very sunny this time of the year. Saint Louis usually receives less sunshine than San Diego during autumn. Saint Louis gets 203 hours of sunny skies, while San Diego receives 244 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Saint Louis usually receives more rain than San Diego. Saint Louis gets 2.7 inches (68 mm) of rain, while San Diego receives 0.4 inches (9 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Saint Louis or San Diego in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Saint Louis as well as San Diego. Many travelers come to Saint Louis for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to San Diego in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Saint Louis. Saint Louis is much colder than San Diego in the winter. The daily temperature in Saint Louis averages around 31°F (-1°C) in January, and San Diego fluctuates around 57°F (14°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in San Diego. In the winter, Saint Louis often gets less sunshine than San Diego. Saint Louis gets 160 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while San Diego receives 239 hours of full sun.

Saint Louis usually gets more rain in January than San Diego. Saint Louis gets 2 inches (52 mm) of rain, while San Diego receives 1.8 inches (46 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Saint Louis or San Diego in the Spring?

Both San Diego and Saint Louis are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Also, most visitors come to San Diego for the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty during these months.

In the spring, Saint Louis is cooler than San Diego. Typically, the spring temperatures in Saint Louis in April average around 58°F (15°C), and San Diego averages at about 62°F (17°C).

It's quite sunny in San Diego. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Saint Louis. Saint Louis usually receives less sunshine than San Diego during spring. Saint Louis gets 229 hours of sunny skies, while San Diego receives 277 hours of full sun in the spring.

It's quite rainy in Saint Louis. In April, Saint Louis usually receives more rain than San Diego. Saint Louis gets 4.4 inches (111 mm) of rain, while San Diego receives 0.8 inches (20 mm) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for San Diego and Saint Louis