A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Tampa vs. Arlington for Food, Nightlife, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Tampa or Arlington?

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

Should I visit Tampa or Arlington? 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.

Tampa

Tampa is a easy-going, low-key, and laid-back city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. It's also popular because of the food and beaches.

Arlington

Arlington is a educational, international, and historical city. It's also popular because of the food, shopping, and museums.

Tampa and Arlington: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Good scuba and snorkeling destination
  • Popular beach
  • Family-friendly
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • 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 for students
  • Good public transit
  • Very walkable
  • Home to Arlington National Cemetery


Is there more to do in Tampa or Arlington?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Tampa than Arlington. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Tampa is very popular for its scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and big city activities, while Arlington attracts visitors for its museums, food, nightlife, and shopping. Arlington is more touristy than Tampa and is known for its international connections, its biking and walking trails, and being the location of the Pentagon. Tampa is famous for its amusement parks, wildlife parks, and popularity as a cruise ship port. It is also well known for Busch Gardens.

How is Tampa different from Arlington?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Tampa or Arlington?

Tampa
Arlington

Arlington is an excellent place to visit for its museums and history. However, Tampa does not have museums and landmarks.

Arlington offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. Arlington National Cemetery is where you'll find the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier as well as the tomb of John F. Kennedy Jr. There are many memorials around town, with the most famous being the U.S. Marine Corps Memorial. There are also several museums like the DEA Museum and the Museum of Contemporary Art.

Tampa does not have museums and landmarks.


Is the Food Better in Tampa or Arlington? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Tampa
Arlington

Arlington is an excellent place to visit for its restaurants. Also, Tampa is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

Arlington has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. It's a global city, and the restaurants reflect that. You'll find amazing Thai, Japanese, and Mexican restaurants. There are also less common cuisines to choose from such as Ethiopian, Moroccan, and Peruvian.

Tampa offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. There are a surprising number of great local restaurants around town as well as a good food truck scene. Some favorite dishes include fresh caught seafood, Grouper sandwiches, and Cuban sandwiches.

Is Tampa or Arlington Better for Nightlife?

Tampa
Arlington

Arlington is an excellent place to visit for its evening party scene. However, Tampa is lacking in options for nightlife.

Arlington has a lively atmosphere and nightlife is popular here. The city has a huge young population that drives the nightlife scene. There are clubs, bars, and lounges in many neighborhoods. There are also comedy clubs and plenty of live music.

Tampa is generally a quiet destination but there are options around. The city has some good nightclubs, sports bars, and other spots where locals enjoy spending the evening.

Is Tampa or Arlington Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Tampa
Arlington

Tampa is a decent place to visit for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Arlington is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

It's possible to go snorkeling in Tampa. While the water isn't always the clearest, there are some nice snorkeling and diving spots in the area. Options include Shell Key and Egmont Key, Crystal River, and Fort De Soto.

Arlington is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.


Is Tampa or Arlington Better for Beaches?

Tampa
Arlington

Tampa is an excellent place to visit for the beach. However, Arlington is not a beach destination.

You'll have a great beach vacation in Tampa. Popular beaches near Tampa include Ben T. Davis Beach, Fred Howard Park, and Indian Rocks Beach.

Arlington is not a beach destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Tampa or Arlington?

Tampa
Arlington

Arlington is a popular place for its shopping areas. However, Tampa is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Arlington has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. Many neighborhoods have local shops or farmer's markets. There are also shopping centers and malls such as Ballston Quarter, The Crossing Clarendon, and The Village at Shirlington.

Tampa is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Tampa or Arlington Better for Families?

Tampa
Arlington

Tampa is an excellent place to visit for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Arlington is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Tampa. The city has a number of kid-oriented attractions including Busch Gardens Amusement Park, several kid-friendly museums, and a number of animal centers, aquariums, and wildlife rescue facilities.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Arlington. Kids will enjoy seeing the planes talk off from Gravelly Point park. There are also plenty of outdoor spaces and educational opportunities in the area, including world class museums.


Is Tampa or Arlington Better for Couples?

Tampa
Arlington

Arlington is a popular place for couples. However, Tampa is lacking in options for romance.

Arlington is a good city for couples to visit. There's a vibrant cultural scene and many international restaurants that couples can enjoy. It's also a great place to take in a show or concert.

Tampa is not the best destination for a couple to visit. The area does have great restaurants and some fun places to explore, but the downtown area has room for improvement and much of the city is suburban.

Is Tampa or Arlington Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Tampa
Arlington

Arlington is an excellent place to visit for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Tampa is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

Plenty of budget travelers and backpackers visit Arlington. There are a couple of hostels and many free activities nearby. There's also great public transportation that makes for a convenient backpacker destination.

Tampa is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

Is Tampa or Arlington Better for Students?

Tampa
Arlington

Arlington is an excellent place to visit for its student-friendly activities. However, Tampa is not popular with students.

Arlington is a very popular city for students and younger travelers. There are a huge number of colleges and museums in the area as well as many great internship and educational opportunities.

Tampa is not popular with students.


Is Tampa or Arlington Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Tampa
Arlington

Arlington is an amazing city to visit for times when you don't have a car. However, Tampa is lacking in options for its public transit.

Public transit in Arlington is top-notch. There is a reliable bus system around town as well as many metro connections.

Public transit is limited or non-existant in Tampa. There is the street car that runs from downtown Tampa to Ybor City and stops at 11 stations.

Is Tampa or Arlington a more walkable city?

Tampa
Arlington

Arlington is an excellent place to visit for its ease of walking around. However, Tampa is lacking in options for its walkability.

Arlington is a very walkable destination. There are many pedestrian-friendly areas around town, particularly in the neighborhoods that are concentrated around metro stations.

Tampa is generally not very walkable. While there are some neighborhoods that are considered walkable, you really need a car if you hope to explore Tampa in depth.

For even more information, also check out Is Tampa Worth Visiting? and Is Arlington Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Arlington or Tampa?

How long in Tampa or Arlington?

It's fun to spend time in either Tampa or Arlington. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Arlington due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Tampa, and 2-4 days is enough time in Arlington.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Arlington than Tampa 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 Arlington.


  • How many days in Tampa or Arlington? Ideal Length of Stay
    Tampa 2-3 
    Arlington 2-4

One day in Tampa or Arlington?

You'll find food around the city of Tampa. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

In Arlington, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this international destination offers. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.


A weekend in Tampa or Arlington?

You'll find food around the low-key destination of Tampa. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Arlington. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. This would be the perfect place to spend a weekend, as it has just the right amount of activities. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Five days in Tampa or Arlington?

Travelers enjoy the food when visiting the low-key city of Tampa. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. It's also a great beach destination, too. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Arlington is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the destination of Arlington. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

A week in Tampa or Arlington?

Tampa is a popular choice for travelers. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. 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.

You'll find food and shopping around the educational destination of Arlington. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Las Vegas, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Anchorage, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Los Angeles, and The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from New York City.


Which place is cheaper, Arlington or Tampa?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Tampa is $179, while the average daily cost in Arlington is $264. 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 Tampa and Arlington in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Tampa $85
    Arlington $131
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Tampa $170
    Arlington $262
Compare Hotels in Tampa and Arlington

Looking for a hotel in Tampa or Arlington? 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 Tampa


Hotels in Arlington


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: Tampa Hotel Prices and Arlington Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Tampa $69
    Arlington $49

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Tampa

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

  • Private Transfer to/from Tampa Airport (TPA): $70
  • Tampa hotels to Tampa Bay Cruise Port-Departure Private Transfer : $51
  • Tampa hotel or address to Tampa Airport (TPA) - Departure Private Transfer: $54
  • Tampa Bay Cruise Port: Private Transfer to Tampa hotels: $306
  • Tampa Bay Cruise Port to Tampa hotels - Arrival Private Transfer : $51
  • Tampa Bay Cruise Port to Tampa hotels - Arrival Private Transfer: $51
  • Tampa Bay Cruise Port to Tampa Hotels - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $101
  • Tampa Airport to Tampa Bay Cruise Port Private Arrival Transfer: $51
  • Tampa Airport (TPA): Transfer tо Tampa Bay Cruise Port: $306
  • Tampa Airport (TPA): Private Transfer to Tampa hotel/address: $206
  • Tampa Airport (TPA) to Tampa hotel or address - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $108
  • Tampa Airport (TPA) to Tampa hotel or address - Arrival Private Transfer: $54

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Arlington

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

  • Ronald Reagan DCA Airport Transfers: $160

Is it cheaper to fly into Tampa or Arlington?

Prices for flights to both Arlington and Tampa 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
    Tampa $53
    Arlington $81

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Tampa

For Tampa, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Cooking Class near Disney in Tampa Florida: $88
  • Ybor City Food Tour On Sundays: $89

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Tampa $20
    Arlington $11

Tours and Activities in Tampa

For Tampa, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • Tampa Terrors Ghost Tour By US Ghost Adventures: $30
  • 1.5-hour Dolphin Sightseeing Cruise from Tampa: $31
  • 2 Hour Guided Segway Tour: $69
  • 2 Hour Private Floating Tiki Boat Tour in Tampa: $59
  • Adventure Island Water Park Ticket: $41
  • Busch Gardens Tampa Bay Admission Ticket: $108
  • Christmas Lights Wonderland Deluxe Golf Cart Guided Tour in Tampa: $49
  • Downtown Tampa Historic Walking Tour: $30
  • Escape to Paradise: Private Island Boat Adventure in Tampa: $630
  • Experience the season with a scavenger hunt in Tampa with Holly Jolly Hunt: $20
  • Ghost Hunters Paranormal Ghost Tour: $39
  • Ghost Investigation Tour Interactive Paranormal Experience 18Plus: $35

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Tampa $26
    Arlington $17

Sample the Local Flavors in Tampa

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Tampa:

  • Tampa Bar Hunt: Tampa Takeover Bar Crawl: $12
  • Tampa Bar Crawl on a 2023 Street Legal Golf Cart: $40
  • Haunted Pub Crawl: $40


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

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


Which is Bigger, Tampa or Arlington?

Tampa has a larger population, and is about 75% larger than the population of Arlington. When comparing the sizes of Tampa and Arlington, 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 Tampa or Arlington?

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 Tampa or Arlington in the Summer?

Both Arlington and Tampa are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Tampa for the beaches, snorkeling, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Arlington in the summer for the family-friendly experiences.

Tampa is around the same temperature as Arlington in the summer. The daily temperature in Tampa averages around 82°F (28°C) in July, and Arlington fluctuates around 79°F (26°C).

It's quite sunny in Arlington. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Tampa. Tampa usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Arlington during summer. Tampa gets 265 hours of sunny skies, while Arlington receives 278 hours of full sun in the summer.

It's quite rainy in Tampa. In July, Tampa usually receives more rain than Arlington. Tampa gets 8.4 inches (214 mm) of rain, while Arlington receives 3.5 inches (88 mm) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Tampa 82°F (28°C) 
    Arlington 79°F (26°C)

Should I visit Tampa or Arlington in the Autumn?

Both Arlington and Tampa during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Tampa in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions. Also, most visitors come to Arlington for the shopping scene during these months.

In the autumn, Tampa is much warmer than Arlington. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Tampa in October average around 75°F (24°C), and Arlington averages at about 60°F (15°C).

It's quite sunny in Tampa. In the autumn, Tampa often gets more sunshine than Arlington. Tampa gets 234 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Arlington receives 197 hours of full sun.

Tampa usually gets less rain in October than Arlington. Tampa gets 2.6 inches (65 mm) of rain, while Arlington receives 2.9 inches (73 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Tampa 75°F (24°C) 
    Arlington 60°F (15°C)

Should I visit Tampa or Arlington in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Tampa and Arlington. Most visitors come to Tampa for the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Arlington because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

The weather in Arlington can be very cold. In January, Tampa is generally much warmer than Arlington. Daily temperatures in Tampa average around 60°F (15°C), and Arlington fluctuates around 35°F (1°C).

In Tampa, it's very sunny this time of the year. Tampa usually receives more sunshine than Arlington during winter. Tampa gets 200 hours of sunny skies, while Arlington receives 139 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Tampa usually receives less rain than Arlington. Tampa gets 2.3 inches (59 mm) of rain, while Arlington receives 2.7 inches (68 mm) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Tampa 60°F (15°C) 
    Arlington 35°F (1°C)

Should I visit Tampa or Arlington in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Tampa as well as Arlington. The spring months attract visitors to Tampa because of the beaches and the activities around the city.

Tampa is much warmer than Arlington in the spring. The daily temperature in Tampa averages around 71°F (22°C) in April, and Arlington fluctuates around 56°F (14°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Arlington. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Tampa this time of the year. In the spring, Tampa often gets more sunshine than Arlington. Tampa gets 299 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Arlington receives 228 hours of full sun.

Tampa usually gets less rain in April than Arlington. Tampa gets 2.1 inches (53 mm) of rain, while Arlington receives 2.8 inches (72 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Tampa 71°F (22°C) 
    Arlington 56°F (14°C)

Typical Weather for Arlington and Tampa

Tampa Arlington
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 60°F (15°C) 2.3 inches (59 mm) 35°F (1°C) 2.7 inches (68 mm)
Feb 61°F (16°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm) 37°F (3°C) 2.7 inches (69 mm)
Mar 67°F (19°C) 3.9 inches (99 mm) 47°F (8°C) 3.2 inches (82 mm)
Apr 71°F (22°C) 2.1 inches (53 mm) 56°F (14°C) 2.8 inches (72 mm)
May 77°F (25°C) 2.4 inches (61 mm) 66°F (19°C) 3.5 inches (89 mm)
Jun 81°F (27°C) 6.5 inches (165 mm) 75°F (24°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm)
Jul 82°F (28°C) 8.4 inches (214 mm) 79°F (26°C) 3.5 inches (88 mm)
Aug 82°F (28°C) 8 inches (203 mm) 78°F (26°C) 3.9 inches (98 mm)
Sep 81°F (27°C) 6.3 inches (161 mm) 71°F (22°C) 3.3 inches (85 mm)
Oct 75°F (24°C) 2.6 inches (65 mm) 60°F (15°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm)
Nov 68°F (20°C) 1.8 inches (45 mm) 50°F (10°C) 3.2 inches (82 mm)
Dec 62°F (17°C) 2.2 inches (56 mm) 39°F (4°C) 3.2 inches (82 mm)