A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Virginia Beach vs. Cleveland for Families, Nightlife, Couples, and Food

Should you visit Virginia Beach or Cleveland?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Virginia Beach or Cleveland, this travel comparison, which includes costs, can help. The overall cost of travel is usually a consideration when deciding where to go next, and the cost comparison down below can help you decide based on the average prices from other travelers along with your own travel budget.

Virginia Beach

Virginia Beach is a relaxing, bustling, and fun-filled coastal city. It's a gorgeous place to visit. Other reasons to visit include nightlife and beaches.

Cleveland

Cleveland is a diverse, authentic, and under-rated city. Visitors also love the museums, nightlife, and live music.

Virginia Beach and Cleveland: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Active nightlife
  • Nice resorts
  • Popular beach
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for students
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with couples


Is there more to do in Virginia Beach or Cleveland?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Cleveland. Although Virginia Beach and Cleveland are about the same size, Cleveland has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Cleveland is very popular for its museums, music, and shopping, while Virginia Beach attracts visitors for its resorts, beaches, and impressive beauty. Virginia Beach is more touristy than Cleveland and is known for its fun boardwalk, many seafood restaurants, and classic beach town vibe. Cleveland is famous for being the home to "rock 'n roll" as well as its friendly and hard working people. It is also well known for the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame.

How is Virginia Beach different from Cleveland?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Virginia Beach or Cleveland?

Virginia Beach
Cleveland

Cleveland is great for its historical sights. However, Virginia Beach does not have museums and landmarks.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Cleveland can be an interesting and educational experience. There are diverse museums around town such as the Cleveland Museum of Art, the Museum of Contemporary Art (moCa), and the Great Lakes Science Center. Music lovers will appreciate a visit to the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame.

Virginia Beach does not have museums and landmarks.


Is the Food Better in Virginia Beach or Cleveland? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Virginia Beach
Cleveland

Local dishes at restaurants are fun to try in both Virginia Beach and Cleveland.

You'll find the standard options when it comes to food in Virginia Beach. Seafood is plentiful around town and there are all-you-can-eat buffets as well as high end, waterfront seafood restaurants. Make sure you try the She Crab Soup, soft shell crabs, and oysters.

Cleveland may not make the list for most foodies, but you'll find what you need while you're in town. Casual dining with comfort food is the way most residents prefer to eat. There are local foods that have made a name for themselves such as gourmet hot dogs and deli sandwiches. The food is also influenced by the city's German, Irish, Polish, and Italian roots. Pierogis, bratwurst, and chicken paprikash are all common.

Is Virginia Beach or Cleveland Better for Nightlife?

Virginia Beach
Cleveland

The vibe at night is nice in both Virginia Beach and Cleveland.

If you're looking for night time activities Virginia Beach has a few options to choose from. While it's a family-friendly beach, there's still a great nightlife scene with many bars and clubs in the area. Popular places to hang out at night include Omega Bar, Peabody's Nightclub, and Sky Bar.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Cleveland. Breweries have become a popular nighttime activity. There are also comedy clubs, music venues, and several theaters.

Is Virginia Beach or Cleveland Better for Music?

Virginia Beach
Cleveland

Cleveland is great for its live music scene. However, Virginia Beach is not a live music destination.

The music scene in Cleveland draws a good crowd. Home to the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame, it has long been a destination for music enthusiasts. There are many independent music venues and it's the perfect place to catch a show.

Virginia Beach is not a live music destination.


Is Virginia Beach or Cleveland Better for Resorts?

Virginia Beach
Cleveland

Virginia Beach is a nice place to visit for its luxury resorts. However, Cleveland is not a resort destination.

Virginia Beach has a handful of resorts to choose from. Some of the best resorts in the area include the Historic Cavalier Hotel and Beach Club, the Hilton Virginia Beach Oceanfront, and The Founders Inn and Spa.

Cleveland is not a resort destination.

Is Virginia Beach or Cleveland Better for Beaches?

Virginia Beach
Cleveland

Virginia Beach is a nice place to visit for its beaches. However, Cleveland is not a beach destination.

Virginia Beach has a beach worth visiting. The beaches are long and sandy, but they can get crowded during the summer months. The waves are just the right size for playing in the surf and the water temperature is usually warm enough to swim well into the fall months.

Cleveland is not a beach destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Virginia Beach or Cleveland?

Virginia Beach
Cleveland

Cleveland is a nice place to visit for its shopping opportunities. However, Virginia Beach is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Cleveland. Large shopping malls offer plenty of selection. There's also West Side Market, which is the oldest public market in the city. Other interesting shopping areas include Little Italy and the Cleveland Flea.

Virginia Beach is not a noteworthy shopping destination.


Is Virginia Beach or Cleveland Better for Families?

Virginia Beach
Cleveland

Virginia Beach is a very popular place for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Cleveland is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

Virginia Beach is a very family-friendly destination. This is a popular family-friendly beach with a nice boardwalk, a fun waterpark, aquarium, and nice beaches. It attracts families in the area for its long beaches and fun atmosphere. Most restaurants have kid's menus and there are ice cream shops and minigolf around.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Cleveland. Kid-friendly activities in the area include the Children’s Museum of Cleveland, the Great Lakes Science Center, and the Cleveland Museum of Natural History. There's also the Cleveland Metroparks Zoo as well as the smaller Akron Zoo.

Is Virginia Beach or Cleveland Better for Couples?

Virginia Beach
Cleveland

Virginia Beach is a nice place to visit for romance. However, Cleveland is lacking in good options for its romantic activities.

Virginia Beach is a nice destination for couples. Couples will enjoy a nice escape to the beaches and boardwalk. There are many great seafood restaurants, some with waterfront settings. There's also a variety of activities ranging from many golf to dance clubs.

Most people don't think of Cleveland as a couple's destination. There are several romantic date night activities like boat rides on Lake Erie or dining at a nice restaurant.

Is Virginia Beach or Cleveland Better for Students?

Virginia Beach
Cleveland

Virginia Beach is a nice place to visit for its student-friendly activities. However, Cleveland is not popular with students.

Plenty of students visit Virginia Beach. It's not as popular as more southern beach towns, but you'll still find students heading here for the spring break holidays.

Cleveland is not popular with students.


Is Virginia Beach or Cleveland Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Virginia Beach
Cleveland

Cleveland is adequate for times when you don't have a car. However, Virginia Beach is not a good destination for its public transit.

Public transit is mostly limited in Cleveland. There are bus, trolley, and train lines through the city, but a car is the most efficient way to get around.

Public transit is limited or non-existant in Virginia Beach. There is very limited public transit in the area so you'll need to have a car to get around.

Is Virginia Beach or Cleveland a more walkable city?

Virginia Beach
Cleveland

Virginia Beach and Cleveland are reasonable when it comes to walkability.

Virginia Beach is generally not a very walkable coastal city. Most people prefer to have a car but do note that parking can be a nightmare, particularly during the summer season.

Cleveland is generally not very walkable. While some neighborhoods are more walkable than others (Downtown, Ohio City and Buckeye - Shaker), most visitors need a car to easily access everything they wish to do.

For even more information, also check out Is Virginia Beach Worth Visiting? and Is Cleveland Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Cleveland or Virginia Beach?

How long in Virginia Beach or Cleveland?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Virginia Beach and Cleveland. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Virginia Beach than in Cleveland. Usually, 5-7 days is a good amount of time for Virginia Beach, and 1-3 days is enough time in Cleveland.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Cleveland than Virginia Beach 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 Cleveland.


  • How many days in Virginia Beach or Cleveland? Ideal Length of Stay
    Virginia Beach 5-7 
    Cleveland 1-3

One day in Virginia Beach or Cleveland?

You'll find nightlife around the coastal city of Virginia Beach. 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 Cleveland, you'll find museums and nightlife. So, one day is just the right amount of time to spend here.


A weekend in Virginia Beach or Cleveland?

You'll find nightlife around the relaxing destination of Virginia Beach. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. This coastal city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Cleveland is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Because of this, a weekend is usually enough time for a trip here.

Five days in Virginia Beach or Cleveland?

You'll find nightlife around the fun-filled coastal city of Virginia Beach. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this coastal city makes for a great vacation. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this coastal city has to offer.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Cleveland. It offers something for everyone. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in Virginia Beach or Cleveland?

Virginia Beach is a popular choice for travelers. One week here is typical. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Virginia Beach, one week is sufficent for most. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the city of Cleveland. Your budget might influence how long you stay. 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.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Sightseeing Tours in United States of America, The Best Cruise Tours and Packages in United States of America, The Best Cultural Tours in United States of America, and The Best Photography Tours in United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Cleveland or Virginia Beach?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Virginia Beach is $126, while the average daily cost in Cleveland is $132. 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 Virginia Beach and Cleveland in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Virginia Beach $71
    Cleveland $75
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Virginia Beach $142
    Cleveland $150
Compare Hotels in Virginia Beach and Cleveland

Looking for a hotel in Virginia Beach or Cleveland? 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 Virginia Beach


Hotels in Cleveland


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: Virginia Beach Hotel Prices and Cleveland Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Virginia Beach $39
    Cleveland $19
Typical Local Transportation Prices in Virginia Beach

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for transportation costs in Virginia Beach:


  • Beach Parking
    $10

Typical Local Transportation Prices in Cleveland

Some typical examples of transportation costs in Cleveland are as follows:


  • Taxi to Airport
    $36

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Cleveland

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

  • Cleveland Hopkins Airport (CLE) to Cleveland - Round-Trip Private Transfer : $178
  • CLE Airport Transfer to Downtown Cleveland: $135
  • Cleveland to Cleveland Hopkins Airport (CLE) - Departure Private Transfer : $89
  • Cleveland Hopkins Airport (CLE) to Cleveland - Arrival Private Transfer : $89
  • Private Departure Transfer to Cleveland Airport (CLE): $64
  • Private Arrival Transfer from Cleveland Airprot (CLE): $64

Is it cheaper to fly into Virginia Beach or Cleveland?

Prices for flights to both Cleveland and Virginia Beach 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
    Virginia Beach $30
    Cleveland $36

Typical Food Prices in Cleveland

For Cleveland, here are some examples of average food and meal prices for travelers:


  • Coffee
    $1.79
  • Sandwich
    $9.75
  • Large Pizza
    $15

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Cleveland

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

  • West Side Market Food Tour: $49
  • Little Italy Neighborhood Food Tour of Cleveland: $74
  • Ohio City Neighborhood Food Tour of Cleveland: $91

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Virginia Beach $21
    Cleveland $40

Tours and Activities in Virginia Beach

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Virginia Beach.

  • Dolphin Kayak Tour in Virginia Beach Must know how to swim: $87
  • Kayak Dolphin Experience in Virginia Beach Must know how to swim: $87
  • Neptune Ghosts: Ghosts of the Coast By US Ghost Adventures: $30
  • Small Group Dolphin Kayak Eco-Tour: $68
  • Sunset Dolphin Kayak Tours: $68
  • Unique Scavenger Hunt Experience in Virginia Beach by Wacky Walks: $10
  • Dolphin Stand-Up Paddleboard Tour: $60
  • Kayak Dolphin Tours | Must Know How to Swim: $78
  • Morning Stand-Up Paddleboarding Tour: $45
  • Neptune Ghosts Haunted Walking Tour: $26
  • Sunset Stand-Up Paddleboarding Tour: $45
  • Virginia Historic Adventure!: $200

Tours and Activities in Cleveland

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

  • CLE Mini Bus Group Tour: $55
  • Cleveland Amazing Scavenger Hunt Adventure: $44
  • Cleveland Cavaliers Basketball Game Ticket: $77
  • Cleveland From the Inside Walking Tour: $24
  • Cleveland Ghosts Tour: $32
  • Cleveland Guardians Baseball Game Ticket at Progressive Field: $27
  • Cleveland Romance: A Walking Tour for Couples: $469
  • Cleveland Romance: A Walking Tour for Couples: $239
  • Cleveland History Center General Admission Ticket: $15
  • Eerie Ghosts Haunted Walking Tour: $24
  • Escape Room Game Entry Ticket with Host: $39
  • Downtown Cleveland Public Art Walking Tour : $24

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Virginia Beach $11
    Cleveland $45

Typical Alcohol Prices in Cleveland

Some typical examples of the costs for nightlife and alcohol in Cleveland are as follows:


  • A Night of Shots
    $36


When comparing the travel costs between Virginia Beach and Cleveland, we can see that Cleveland 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 Virginia Beach Expensive? and Is Cleveland Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Virginia Beach or Cleveland?

Cleveland has a larger population, and is about 6% larger than the population of Virginia Beach. When comparing the sizes of Virginia Beach and Cleveland, 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 Virginia Beach or Cleveland?

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 Virginia Beach or Cleveland in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Virginia Beach and Cleveland. The summer months attract visitors to Virginia Beach because of the beaches and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, the music scene and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Cleveland this time of year.

In July, Virginia Beach is generally around the same temperature as Cleveland. Daily temperatures in Virginia Beach average around 79°F (26°C), and Cleveland fluctuates around 75°F (24°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Cleveland this time of the year. In Virginia Beach, it's very sunny this time of the year. Virginia Beach usually receives less sunshine than Cleveland during summer. Virginia Beach gets 279 hours of sunny skies, while Cleveland receives 307 hours of full sun in the summer.

Cleveland receives a lot of rain in the summer. Virginia Beach gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In July, Virginia Beach usually receives more rain than Cleveland. Virginia Beach gets 5.7 inches (145 mm) of rain, while Cleveland receives 4 inches (101 mm) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Virginia Beach 79°F (26°C) 
    Cleveland 75°F (24°C)

Should I visit Virginia Beach or Cleveland in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Virginia Beach as well as Cleveland. The natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Virginia Beach this time of year. Additionally, many travelers come to Cleveland for the shopping scene and the music scene.

Virginia Beach is a little warmer than Cleveland in the autumn. The daily temperature in Virginia Beach averages around 62°F (16°C) in October, and Cleveland fluctuates around 56°F (13°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Virginia Beach this time of the year. In the autumn, Virginia Beach often gets more sunshine than Cleveland. Virginia Beach gets 211 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Cleveland receives 165 hours of full sun.

Virginia Beach usually gets more rain in October than Cleveland. Virginia Beach gets 3.1 inches (78 mm) of rain, while Cleveland receives 1.9 inches (49 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Virginia Beach 62°F (16°C) 
    Cleveland 56°F (13°C)

Should I visit Virginia Beach or Cleveland in the Winter?

Both Cleveland and Virginia Beach are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Virginia Beach for the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Cleveland in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Cleveland can get quite cold in the winter. Be prepared for some very cold days in Virginia Beach. In the winter, Virginia Beach is much warmer than Cleveland. Typically, the winter temperatures in Virginia Beach in January average around 39°F (4°C), and Cleveland averages at about 28°F (-2°C).

Virginia Beach usually receives more sunshine than Cleveland during winter. Virginia Beach gets 168 hours of sunny skies, while Cleveland receives 95 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Virginia Beach usually receives more rain than Cleveland. Virginia Beach gets 3.3 inches (85 mm) of rain, while Cleveland receives 1.5 inches (39 mm) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Virginia Beach 39°F (4°C) 
    Cleveland 28°F (-2°C)

Should I visit Virginia Beach or Cleveland in the Spring?

Both Cleveland and Virginia Beach during the spring are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Virginia Beach in the spring for the beaches and the natural beauty.

In April, Virginia Beach is generally a little warmer than Cleveland. Daily temperatures in Virginia Beach average around 58°F (14°C), and Cleveland fluctuates around 51°F (10°C).

In Cleveland, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Virginia Beach. In the spring, Virginia Beach often gets more sunshine than Cleveland. Virginia Beach gets 253 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Cleveland receives 213 hours of full sun.

Virginia Beach usually gets around the same amount of rain in April as Cleveland. Virginia Beach gets 2.7 inches (69 mm) of rain, while Cleveland receives 2.8 inches (71 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Virginia Beach 58°F (14°C) 
    Cleveland 51°F (10°C)

Typical Weather for Cleveland and Virginia Beach

Virginia Beach Cleveland
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 39°F (4°C) 3.3 inches (85 mm) 28°F (-2°C) 1.5 inches (39 mm)
Feb 41°F (5°C) 3.3 inches (84 mm) 30°F (-1°C) 1.5 inches (37 mm)
Mar 49°F (10°C) 3.4 inches (87 mm) 40°F (5°C) 1.9 inches (49 mm)
Apr 58°F (14°C) 2.7 inches (69 mm) 51°F (10°C) 2.8 inches (71 mm)
May 67°F (19°C) 3.3 inches (85 mm) 61°F (16°C) 2.6 inches (67 mm)
Jun 74°F (24°C) 3.6 inches (92 mm) 71°F (21°C) 2.5 inches (64 mm)
Jul 79°F (26°C) 5.7 inches (145 mm) 75°F (24°C) 4 inches (101 mm)
Aug 78°F (25°C) 5.9 inches (150 mm) 73°F (23°C) 2.4 inches (60 mm)
Sep 72°F (22°C) 4.2 inches (107 mm) 67°F (19°C) 3 inches (75 mm)
Oct 62°F (16°C) 3.1 inches (78 mm) 56°F (13°C) 1.9 inches (49 mm)
Nov 53°F (12°C) 3 inches (75 mm) 45°F (7°C) 2.2 inches (57 mm)
Dec 44°F (7°C) 3.1 inches (79 mm) 34°F (1°C) 2.2 inches (55 mm)