A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Saint Louis vs. Seattle for Attractions, Food, Nightlife, and Families

Should you visit Saint Louis or Seattle?

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 Seattle. 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 fascinating, under rated, and unexpected city. Other popular activities here include nightlife, food, and shopping.

Seattle

Seattle is a progressive, cultural, and outdoorsy city. It's a large city with plenty of activites for visitors as well. It's a gorgeous place to visit. It's also known for food, beaches, and hiking.

Saint Louis and Seattle: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Saint Louis or Seattle?

You'll generally find more things to do in Seattle than Saint Louis. Seattle is bigger than Saint Louis, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Seattle is better known for its theatre productions, food, nightlife, music, beaches, hiking, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Saint Louis is more popular for its museums and shopping. Seattle is more touristy than Saint Louis and is known for its beautiful waterfront setting, diverse culinary scene, thriving art and cultural venues, and being the home of many international tech companies. Also, Seattle is famous for The Space Needle. Saint Louis is well known 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 Seattle?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Saint Louis is renowned for its sights and museums. Also, Seattle is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its museums and history.

You'll find many recognizable landmarks that put Saint Louis on the map. 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.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into Seattle. The city's most iconic landmark is the Space Needle. There's also a zoo, aquarium, and a handful of nice museums. Several favorites include the Chihuly Garden and Glass, the Museum of History & Industry, and the Seattle Art Museum.

Is Saint Louis or Seattle Better for Theater?

Seattle is a good destination for theatre. However, Saint Louis is not a theatre destination.

With some theater and performance venues, you might want to see a show in Seattle. There are a handful of theaters where you can enjoy traveling Broadway shows or smaller productions.

Saint Louis is not a theatre destination.

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

Seattle 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, Seattle makes for a great culinary experience. The city has many diverse dining options that make it a popular foodie destination. The seafood is world-class with many restaurants offering fresh caught salmon and oysters. There are also many great Asian restaurants with Pho, sushi, and dim sum all being popular around town. Seattle is also famous as the birthplace of Starbucks coffee, and both chain and independent coffee shops are common. Finally, make sure you check out the donuts at Pike's Place Market.

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 Seattle Better for Nightlife?

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

Seattle is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. The city is known for its breweries and eclectic nightlife scene. There is a thriving theater scene as well as many bars and trendy restaurants. The best neighborhoods for nightlife include Capitol Hill, Belltown, and Downtown.

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 Seattle Better for Music?

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

Music is a popular form of entertainment in Seattle. The city has developed its own music culture around several genres including alternative rock and grunge.

Saint Louis is not a live music destination.

Is Saint Louis or Seattle Better for Beaches?

Seattle is a good destination for its beaches. However, Saint Louis is not a beach destination.

Seattle offers a nice beach destination. The city is surrounded by water so there are a number of rocky and sandy beaches nearby. Some beaches are more popular with locals while others attract a large amount of tourists. Alki Beach Park, Discovery Park, and Golden Gardens Park are among the best.

Saint Louis is not a beach destination.

Is Saint Louis or Seattle Better for Hiking?

Seattle 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 Seattle. It's famously an outdoorsy city and the hiking will not disappoint. Within a half hour drive of town you'll find beautiful forests and stunning natural beauty. Head into the Cascades, to the coastal rainforests, or around Mount Rainier for all kinds of diverse landscapes. Seattle is well situated for you to experience hiking through the diverse Pacific Northwest landscapes.

Saint Louis is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Saint Louis or Seattle?

Saint Louis is notable for its shopping areas. Also, Seattle is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for shopping.

Browsing through shops is a popular activity in Saint Louis. There are vintage stores, boutiques, and suburban strip malls around town. There are also farmer's markets and art galleries.

Plenty of visitors enjoy shopping while in Seattle. Shopping in town has an eclectic mix of high end brands, local vendors, and vintage shops. There are farmers markets as well as the famous Pike Place Market, but also major malls with all of the standard department stores.

Is Saint Louis or Seattle Better for Families?

Saint Louis is notable for its family-friendly activities. Also, Seattle is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

Saint Louis is known to be 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.

Seattle is a family-friendly city. This is an outdoor city with plenty of places where kids can run around and experience nature. There are several good museums as well as outdoor activities, parks, and a zoo. Make sure you check out the Burke Museum of Natural History and Culture, Volunteer Park, and Artists at Play Playground.

Is Saint Louis or Seattle Better for Couples?

Saint Louis and Seattle both notable destinations for a couple.

Saint Louis is a nice destination for couples. Fine dining restaurants and eclectic activities make this city an often overlooked couples destination.

Seattle makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. The city has a laid back vibe, a nice downtown area, and plenty of outdoor activities. There are a diversity of restaurants to enjoy and a great nightlife scene that makes for a good couple's getaway.

Is Saint Louis or Seattle Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

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

Plenty of backpackers visit Seattle. Although it's not the most popular city for backpackers in America, the city's chill vibe, fun breweries, and lively setting make it a great spot for young backpackers.

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 Seattle Better for Students?

Seattle is well known for students. However, Saint Louis is not popular with students.

Many students visit Seattle. It is a major IT center with a large university, so international students will have plenty of opportunities here. It's also a vibrant city with many outdoor recreational opportunities and a fun nightlife scene.

Saint Louis is not popular with students.

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

Saint Louis is notable for its public transit. Also, Seattle is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for times when you don't have a car.

Saint Louis offers a very effecient public transportation network. There's a light rail system as well as buses that travel around town.

Seattle has some public transit options. There is a light rail system, a monorail, a street car, and buses.

Is Saint Louis or Seattle a more walkable city?

Seattle is well known for its walkability. Also, Saint Louis is still popular, but not quite as popular for its high level of walkability.

Seattle is very walkable. Many neighborhoods are very walkable, particularly in the downtown and major tourist areas.

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 Seattle Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Seattle or Saint Louis?

How long in Saint Louis or Seattle?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Saint Louis and Seattle. In our opinion, Seattle has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Seattle 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 Seattle.

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

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

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

One day in Saint Louis or Seattle?

In Saint Louis, you'll find nightlife and food. One reason most visitors come is for the museums. This city offers something for everyone. This would be the perfect place to spend one day, as it has just the right amount of activities.

Seattle is a cultural city where you can fill many days. 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 Seattle?

In Saint Louis, you'll find food and shopping. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. One reason most visitors come is for the museums. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Saint Louis has to offer.

Seattle is a bustling big city where you can fill many days. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. This city 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 Seattle?

Saint Louis 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.

The laid-back city of Seattle 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 Seattle?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Saint Louis. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Saint Louis. One reason most visitors come is for the museums. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

Many people enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting Seattle. 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 Cultural Tours in United States of America, The Best Photography Tours in United States of America, The Best Camping Tours in United States of America, and The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in United States of America.

When comparing the travel costs between Saint Louis and Seattle, we can see that Seattle 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 Seattle Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Saint Louis or Seattle?

Seattle has a larger population, and is about 77% larger than the population of Saint Louis. When comparing the sizes of Saint Louis and Seattle, 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 Seattle?

Both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. And since both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Saint Louis or Seattle in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Saint Louis and Seattle. Many visitors come to Saint Louis in the summer for the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Seattle for the beaches, the hiking, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In July, Saint Louis is generally a little warmer than Seattle. Daily temperatures in Saint Louis average around 81°F (27°C), and Seattle fluctuates around 67°F (19°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Seattle 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 Seattle during summer. Saint Louis gets 309 hours of sunny skies, while Seattle receives 313 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Saint Louis usually receives more rain than Seattle. Saint Louis gets 3.8 inches (96 mm) of rain, while Seattle receives 0.9 inches (22 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Saint Louis or Seattle in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Saint Louis as well as Seattle. Most visitors come to Saint Louis for the shopping scene during these months. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Seattle because of the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

Saint Louis is a little warmer than Seattle in the autumn. The daily temperature in Saint Louis averages around 60°F (16°C) in October, and Seattle fluctuates around 54°F (12°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Saint Louis this time of the year. In the autumn, Saint Louis often gets more sunshine than Seattle. Saint Louis gets 203 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Seattle receives 143 hours of full sun.

Saint Louis usually gets less rain in October than Seattle. Saint Louis gets 2.7 inches (68 mm) of rain, while Seattle receives 3.3 inches (83 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Saint Louis or Seattle in the Winter?

Both Seattle and Saint Louis are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The winter months attract visitors to Saint Louis because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, the museums, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine are the main draw to Seattle this time of year.

The weather in Saint Louis can be very cold. In the winter, Saint Louis is much colder than Seattle. Typically, the winter temperatures in Saint Louis in January average around 31°F (-1°C), and Seattle averages at about 42°F (5°C).

Saint Louis usually receives more sunshine than Seattle during winter. Saint Louis gets 160 hours of sunny skies, while Seattle receives 67 hours of full sun in the winter.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Seattle. In January, Saint Louis usually receives less rain than Seattle. Saint Louis gets 2 inches (52 mm) of rain, while Seattle receives 5.4 inches (136 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Saint Louis or Seattle in the Spring?

Both Seattle and Saint Louis during the spring are popular places to visit. Furthermore, many travelers come to Seattle for the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty.

In April, Saint Louis is generally a little warmer than Seattle. Daily temperatures in Saint Louis average around 58°F (15°C), and Seattle fluctuates around 51°F (11°C).

In Seattle, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Saint Louis. In the spring, Saint Louis often gets more sunshine than Seattle. Saint Louis gets 229 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Seattle receives 212 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Saint Louis. Saint Louis usually gets more rain in April than Seattle. Saint Louis gets 4.4 inches (111 mm) of rain, while Seattle receives 2.5 inches (64 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Seattle and Saint Louis