A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Washington vs. Asheville for Food, Nightlife, Music, and Hiking

Should you visit Washington or Asheville?

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

Which city is more affordable and which is best for your travel style? If you're trying to figure out where to go next, comparing the travel costs between Washington and Asheville can help you decide which place is right for you.

Washington

Washington is a active, monument-filled, and international city. Travelers will also find plenty of sights and attractions here, as it's a big city that attracts lots of visitors. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. This destination also has one of those special and quaint feelings. And you can't forget about the museums, theater, and nightlife.

Asheville

Asheville is a open-minded, eclectic, and outdoorsy mountain town. It's a gorgeous place to visit. This is a quaint and attractive place to visit, too. Other reasons to visit include hiking, shopping, and nightlife.

Washington and Asheville: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Washington or Asheville?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Washington than Asheville. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Washington is very popular for its museums, theatre productions, food, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Asheville attracts visitors for its music, resorts, historical sights, hiking, and christmas markets. Washington is more touristy than Asheville and is popular for its reputation as the capital of the United States, but it's also known for its many monuments, memorials, and museums. It is also well known for The Washington Monument and the White House. Asheville is famous for its fall foliage, artsy downtown, local North Carolina barbecue, and being home to the Biltmore Estate.

How is Washington different from Asheville?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Washington or Asheville?

Washington is an unbeatable place for its museums and landmarks. However, Asheville does not have museums and landmarks.

The museums, monuments, and landmarks in Washington are among the most recognizable in the world. The city has world class museums that are often free. The Smithsonian Museums are arguably some of the most impressive museums in the United States. The city also has a large collection of monuments that are dedicated to past presidents or historical events. Many are best experienced at night when the sun sets and the lights come on.

Asheville does not have museums and landmarks.

Is Washington or Asheville Better for Theater?

Washington is well known for its theatre productions. However, Asheville is not a theatre destination.

Washington offers many theater and performance venues for visitors. Theater is popular in the city. From major theaters like the Kennedy Center and Ford's Theater, to lesser known smaller venues, there are options for everyone.

Asheville is not a theatre destination.

Is the Food Better in Washington or Asheville? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Washington is an unbeatable place for its restaurant scene. Also, Asheville is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

Eat your way through Washington, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. This city is among the most diverse in the country, so you can find restaurants from almost any cuisine here. It's worth exploring and stepping out of your comfort zone. There are popular neighborhoods for Ethiopian, Korean, Thai, Japanese, and Chinese food, among many others.

Asheville is becoming an appealing option for foodies. Downtown Asheville is filled with local restaurants that serve everything from brunch to late night snacks. There are many vegan and vegetarian options as well as a number of international restaurants. Popular local dishes include North Carolina barbeque and country ham biscuits.

Is Washington or Asheville Better for Nightlife?

The vibe at night is high quality in both Washington and Asheville.

Many people head to Washington for the nightlife scene. Many visitors head straight to the museums and the National Mall, and don't realize what a livable and fun city this is. Some of the best nightlife is found in Dupont Circle, U Street, and even Arlington, VA. The city's young population ensures that there's never a dull moment.

Asheville has plenty to do after the sun goes down. The city has a fun and eclectic nightlife scene that centers around the city's breweries and live music venues.

Is Washington or Asheville Better for Music?

Asheville is great for live music. Also, Washington is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its live music scene.

The music scene in Asheville draws a good crowd. The city has grown into a world famous music destination that holds true to its mountain roots and independent artists.

The music scene helps keep Washington active and fun. Notable live music venues include the 9:30 Club, the Anthem, and Union Stage.

Is Washington or Asheville Better for Resorts?

Asheville is very good for its luxury resorts. However, Washington is not a resort destination.

Asheville has a handful of resorts to choose from. The most famous resorts in the area are the Biltmore Estate and the Grove Park Inn. Both offer luxury restaurants and beautiful grounds that are particularly nice during the holidays.

Washington is not a resort destination.

Is Washington or Asheville Better for its Old Town?

Asheville is adequate for its historic old town. However, Washington does not have a historic old town.

Asheville is a good place to visit the old town. Downtown Asheville maintains much of its historic vibe, but it's smaller than some of the more notable old cities around the country.

Washington does not have a historic old town.

Is Washington or Asheville Better for Hiking?

Asheville is great for hiking. However, Washington is not a good destination for the nearby hiking options.

Many visitors go to Asheville for the hiking trails. Just outside of town are many great hikes to waterfalls or through the mountains. The hikes range in skill level and length but many pass through local forests or along the beautiful skyline.

Many visitors include a hike while visiting Washington. Just outside of Washington DC you'll find plenty of places to go hiking. There's also an elaborate bike and walking trail system in the city. To enjoy a bit of nature, head to Teddy Roosevelt Island.

Is the Shopping Better in Washington or Asheville?

If you're looking to go shopping, Washington and Asheville both offer plenty of high quality spots.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Washington. Head to Georgetown and Dupont Circle for some of the city's best local shopping. There are name brand chains mixed in with local boutiques. You'll also find plenty of souvenir shops in the more touristy areas if you're looking to pick up some trinkets.

Asheville is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. The city has many local shops that sell local crafts and independent art. The downtown area is filled with art vendors and you'll find the greatest concentration of shopping along the pedestrian-friendly Lexington Avenue.

Is Washington or Asheville Better for Christmas?

Washington is an unbeatable place for its Christmas activities. Also, Asheville is still popular, but not quite as popular for its Christmas holiday experiences.

During Christmas, Washington is not to be missed. With it's beautiful lights and holiday shows, Christmas is beautiful in the capital of the United States.

Asheville is a very popular destination during Christmas. Head to the Biltmore Estate to see it fully decorated for the Christmas season. It's also worth going to see the winning Gingerbread Houses on display at the Grove Park Inn.

Is Washington or Asheville Better for Christmas Markets?

Asheville is adequate for visiting Christmas markets. However, Washington does not offer Christmas markets.

Asheville is a good spot to see some Christmas markets. There are a handful of local Christmas shops around town where you can buy personalized gifts.

Washington does not offer Christmas markets.

Is Washington or Asheville Better for Families?

You'll find high quality kid-friendly activities in either Washington or Asheville.

Washington is a very family-friendly destination. It is a fun and educational destination where kids can explore world class museums and try unique foods from all around the world. The city has nationally recognized landmarks, monuments, and memorials and it's also home to some of the best (free) museums in the United States including the world class Smithsonian Institutions. Many schools visit Washington DC as a field trip, particularly during the Spring months, so you'll kids groups in colorful t-shirts running around the National Mall.

Asheville is a very kid-friendly city. With its beautiful hiking, interesting nature centers, and outdoor adventure activities, this mountain town makes a great kid-friendly destination. There are outdoor adventure parks where kids can zipline or climb. There are also hands on farms and orchards for fruit-picking.

Is Washington or Asheville Better for Couples?

Both Washington and Asheville are high quality destinations to visit as a couple.

Washington is a great city if you're traveling as a couple. The city lights up at night, so couples will enjoy wandering by the monuments in the evening or taking in a dinner and show. During the Spring months you'll find couples wandering through the Cherry Blossoms or along the waterfront.

Asheville is a very popular place to visit for couples. Couples enjoy exploring the beautiful Biltmore Estates or visiting the spa at the Grove Park Inn. The quaint town makes a great honeymoon destination or a nice romantic getaway. There are luxury hotels or intimate bed and breakfasts that offer different options for couples on a romantic trip.

Is Washington or Asheville Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Asheville is great for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Washington is not a good destination for backpackers.

Asheville is very popular with the backpacker crowd. The town has an eclectic vibe that backpackers appreciate. There are a few good hostels around town as well as nearby campgrounds that are perfect for budget travelers or hikers.

Washington is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. While it is an international travel destination, the city often isn't at the top of most backpacker's lists. There are some affordable accommodation options available though if you know where to look.

Is Washington or Asheville Better for Students?

Washington is an unbeatable place for students. Also, Asheville is still popular, but not quite as popular for its student-friendly activities.

Washington is a very popular place to visit for students. International students come from around the world to study, learn, intern, and work in the capital of the United States. There are many internships available through the federal government as well as NGOs and nonprofits.

Asheville is a very popular city for students and younger travelers. With its progressive personality and charming downtown, students enjoy spending time in this great town.

Is Washington or Asheville Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Washington is an unbeatable place for its public transit. However, Asheville is not particularly known for times when you don't have a car.

Visitors in Washington can get around quickly with the extensive public transit system. The metro system and the bus system are reliable and efficient ways to explore the city.

Public transit is mostly limited in Asheville. There are buses around town, but almost everyone gets around town with their own vehicle.

Is Washington or Asheville a more walkable city?

Washington is an unbeatable place for its high level of walkability. Also, Asheville is still popular, but not quite as popular for its ease of walking around.

Getting around Washington on foot is easy. Many neighborhoods around the city are easy to explore on foot. Most tourists spend a lot of time in the Mall area, which is very pedestrian friendly.

Asheville is a somewhat walkable city. If you stay downtown and don't plan to explore the outlying areas, then it's possible to walk around town. Otherwise, you'll need a car.

For even more information, also check out Is Washington Worth Visiting? and Is Asheville Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Asheville or Washington?

How long in Washington or Asheville?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Washington and Asheville. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Washington than in Asheville. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Washington, and 2-3 days is enough time in Asheville.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Asheville than Washington 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 Asheville.

One day in Washington or Asheville?

People visit Washington because there is so much to do. 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.

With shopping and nightlife around the open-minded mountain town of Asheville, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Washington or Asheville?

People visit Washington because there is so much to do. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

With nightlife and live music around the destination of Asheville, there's plenty to do. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. It offers something for everyone. Many people spend a weekend here. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this mountain town.

Five days in Washington or Asheville?

People visit Washington because there is so much to do. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this city makes for a great vacation. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer.

Asheville, a popular mountain town, is full of activities for travelers. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

A week in Washington or Asheville?

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

Asheville is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best G Adventures Tours to United States of America, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Las Vegas, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Anchorage, and The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Los Angeles.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Washington or Asheville?

Washington has a larger population, and is about 8 times larger than the population of Asheville. When comparing the sizes of Washington and Asheville, 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 Washington or Asheville?

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 Washington or Asheville in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Washington as well as Asheville. Many visitors come to Washington in the summer for the hiking, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences. Additionally, most visitors come to Asheville for the hiking, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In the summer, Washington is around the same temperature as Asheville. Typically, the summer temperatures in Washington in July average around 79°F (26°C), and Asheville averages at about 82°F (28°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Asheville. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Washington this time of the year. In the summer, Washington often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Asheville. Washington gets 278 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Asheville receives 268 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Asheville. Washington usually gets less rain in July than Asheville. Washington gets 3.5 inches (88 mm) of rain, while Asheville receives 5.4 inches (137 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Washington or Asheville in the Autumn?

Both Asheville and Washington are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Washington for the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Asheville because of the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Washington is generally cooler than Asheville. Daily temperatures in Washington average around 60°F (15°C), and Asheville fluctuates around 64°F (18°C).

It's quite sunny in Asheville. Washington usually receives less sunshine than Asheville during autumn. Washington gets 197 hours of sunny skies, while Asheville receives 229 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Washington usually receives less rain than Asheville. Washington gets 2.9 inches (73 mm) of rain, while Asheville receives 3.4 inches (86 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Washington or Asheville in the Winter?

Both Asheville and Washington during the winter are popular places to visit. The winter months attract visitors to Washington because of the museums, the Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine. Also, the Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Asheville this time of year.

The weather in Washington can be very cold. Washington is much colder than Asheville in the winter. The daily temperature in Washington averages around 35°F (1°C) in January, and Asheville fluctuates around 44°F (7°C).

In the winter, Washington often gets less sunshine than Asheville. Washington gets 139 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Asheville receives 176 hours of full sun.

Asheville gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Washington usually gets less rain in January than Asheville. Washington gets 2.7 inches (68 mm) of rain, while Asheville receives 3.9 inches (100 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Washington or Asheville in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Washington and Asheville. The activities around the city and the natural beauty are the main draw to Washington this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Asheville for the natural beauty.

In the spring, Washington is cooler than Asheville. Typically, the spring temperatures in Washington in April average around 56°F (14°C), and Asheville averages at about 64°F (18°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Asheville this time of the year. In Washington, it's very sunny this time of the year. Washington usually receives less sunshine than Asheville during spring. Washington gets 228 hours of sunny skies, while Asheville receives 266 hours of full sun in the spring.

Asheville receives a lot of rain in the spring. In April, Washington usually receives less rain than Asheville. Washington gets 2.8 inches (72 mm) of rain, while Asheville receives 4.4 inches (112 mm) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Asheville and Washington