A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Washington vs. Atlantic City for Attractions, Food, Nightlife, and Families

Should you visit Washington or Atlantic City?

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 Atlantic City can help you decide which place is right for you.

Washington

Washington is a active, monument-filled, and international city. It's a large city with plenty of activites for visitors as well. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. This is a quaint and attractive place to visit, too. It's also known for nightlife, live music, and food.

Atlantic City

Atlantic City is a colorful, glitzy, and flashy city. Other reasons to visit include shopping, nightlife, and food.

Washington and Atlantic City: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Washington or Atlantic City?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Washington. Although Washington and Atlantic City are both popular with visitors, Washington has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Washington is more popular for its museums, theatre productions, food, music, hiking, shopping, big city activities, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere, while Atlantic City is known for its nightlife, resorts, and beaches. Atlantic City is more touristy than Washington and is popular for its casinos, gambling culture, nightlife scene, and wild personality Washington 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 home to The Washington Monument and the White House.

How is Washington different from Atlantic City?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Washington is a world-class destination for its museums and landmarks. However, Atlantic City is not particularly known for its historical sights.

Visitors will find world class museums and historical sights in Washington that are not to be missed. 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.

While most people don't head to Atlantic City specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. While most people don't spend their time in museums, there is the Marine Mammal Stranding Center, the African American Heritage Museum, and the Noyes Museum Galleries.

Is Washington or Atlantic City Better for Theater?

Washington is well known for theatre. However, Atlantic City 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.

Atlantic City is not a theatre destination.

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

Washington is a world-class destination for its restaurant scene. Also, Atlantic City 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.

Atlantic City has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. There are budget buffets around town as well as seafood restaurants and even some fine dining. Salt water taffy is a local specialty that you should pick up while you're in the area.

Is Washington or Atlantic City Better for Nightlife?

Atlantic City is a world-class destination for nightlife. Also, Washington is not as popular, but is still a nice city for nightlife and partying.

People head to Atlantic City just to party. This is a city that is all about its nightlife scene. Many visitors come here just to party, and you'll find clubs with DJs or bands playing from sunset to sunrise. There are glitzy lounges and dive bars with everything in between. As a gambling town, there are casinos and all-night activities that keep the energy going round the clock.

Washington has plenty to do after the sun goes down. 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.

Is Washington or Atlantic City Better for Music?

Washington is a good destination for live music. However, Atlantic City is not a live music destination.

You don't have to look far to find a unique music venue in Washington. Notable live music venues include the 9:30 Club, the Anthem, and Union Stage.

Atlantic City is not a live music destination.

Is Washington or Atlantic City Better for Resorts?

Atlantic City is great for its luxury resorts. However, Washington is not a resort destination.

Vacationers can choose from a number of terrific resorts in Atlantic City. The beach and boardwalk are lined with casinos and resorts. There are many recognizable names such as Harrah's, Bally's, Caesars, Hard Rock, and the Tropicana.

Washington is not a resort destination.

Is Washington or Atlantic City Better for Beaches?

Atlantic City is very good for its beaches. However, Washington is not a beach destination.

Many people head to Atlantic City to enjoy the beach. There's a Boardwalk that runs along the beach and is lined with piers and hotels. The Downtown Beach is the most accessible, and where most tourists hang out. If you're willing to travel a little further, there are some nice beaches nearby such as Margate Beach and Brigantine Beach.

Washington is not a beach destination.

Is Washington or Atlantic City Better for Hiking?

Washington is a city with a few options for its hiking experiences. However, Atlantic City is not a hiking destination.

Washington has hiking trails if you want to get outside. 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.

Atlantic City is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Washington or Atlantic City?

Washington is well known for shopping. Also, Atlantic City is still popular, but not quite as popular for its shopping opportunities.

Washington is an extremely popular place for shoppers. 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.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Atlantic City. You'll find many souvenir shops along the boardwalk. There's also a Tangier Outlet Mall in the area. Some of the hotels such as the Tropicana have their own shopping areas as well.

Is Washington or Atlantic City Better for Christmas?

Washington is a world-class destination for its Christmas activities. However, Atlantic City does not offer Christmas activities.

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.

Atlantic City does not offer Christmas activities.

Is Washington or Atlantic City Better for Families?

Washington is well known for its family-friendly activities. However, Atlantic City is not particularly known for its kid-friendly activities.

Washington is a very family-friendly place to visit. 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.

For families, Atlantic City is not always the best place to visit. Most families avoid this area for more family-friendly beaches, but if you find yourself in the area, you can check out Ripley's Believe It or Not or go on a dolphin cruise. Also popular is Steel Pier, which has rides for all ages.

Is Washington or Atlantic City Better for Couples?

Washington is well known for romance. Also, Atlantic City is still popular, but not quite as popular for its romantic activities.

Couples visit Washington frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. 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.

Atlantic City makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. It's not exactly known for its romance, but there are casinos, hotels, and a beaches that are fun to visit. You'll also find several spas and sunset cruises in the area.

Is Washington or Atlantic City Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Atlantic City is very good for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Washington is not a good destination for backpackers.

Atlantic City is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. There is a hostel in the area. You'll also find a younger crowd and plenty of partying.

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 Atlantic City Better for Students?

Washington is a world-class destination for students. However, Atlantic City is not popular with students.

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.

Atlantic City is not popular with students.

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

Washington is a world-class destination for its public transit. Also, Atlantic City is still popular, but not quite as popular for times when you don't have a car.

With a huge network, the transit system in Washington can get you around easily. The metro system and the bus system are reliable and efficient ways to explore the city.

While Atlantic City offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. The Jitney are shuttle buses that runs from one end of the city to the other. They pass by most of the hotels and casinos along Pacific Avenue.

Is Washington or Atlantic City a more walkable city?

Washington is a world-class destination for its walkability. Also, Atlantic City is still popular, but not quite as popular for its high level of walkability.

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.

Atlantic City is a very walkable city. Many of the hotels are walkable and located near the boardwalk.

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

Should I spend more time in Atlantic City or Washington?

How long in Washington or Atlantic City?

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

Families should spend more time in Washington than Atlantic City. 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 Atlantic City. 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 Washington than Atlantic City 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 Washington.

One day in Washington or Atlantic City?

Washington is a bustling city that offers something for everyone. Your budget might influence how long you stay. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

With shopping and nightlife around the colorful city of Atlantic City, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. One of the main draws to the area is the nightlife. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Atlantic City, one day is sufficent for most.

A weekend in Washington or Atlantic City?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Washington. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

With nightlife and food around the destination of Atlantic City, there's plenty to do. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. It offers something for everyone. Many people spend a weekend here. One of the main draws to the area is the nightlife. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this city.

Five days in Washington or Atlantic City?

Washington is a bustling city that offers something for everyone. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. If you have five days, this is a great place to go. Five days is usually enough time to experience most activities.

Atlantic City, a popular city, is full of activities for travelers. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. 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 Atlantic City?

Washington is a bustling city that offers something for everyone. Plenty of people spend one week in the area when traveling.So, one week is just the right amount of time to spend here. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Atlantic City is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. One of the main draws to the area is the nightlife. 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 Atlantic City, we can see that Washington is more expensive. And not only is Atlantic City much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Atlantic City would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Atlantic City 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 Atlantic City.

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

Which is Bigger, Washington or Atlantic City?

Washington has a larger population, and is about 10 times larger than the population of Atlantic City. When comparing the sizes of Washington and Atlantic City, 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 Atlantic City?

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 Atlantic City in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Washington as well as Atlantic City. 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 Atlantic City for the beaches and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

Washington is around the same temperature as Atlantic City in the summer. The daily temperature in Washington averages around 79°F (26°C) in July, and Atlantic City fluctuates around 75°F (24°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Atlantic City. 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 Atlantic City. Washington gets 278 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Atlantic City receives 273 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Atlantic City. Washington usually gets less rain in July than Atlantic City. Washington gets 3.5 inches (88 mm) of rain, while Atlantic City receives 4.4 inches (112 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Washington or Atlantic City in the Autumn?

Both Atlantic City 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 Atlantic City because of the shopping scene.

In the autumn, Washington is a little warmer than Atlantic City. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Washington in October average around 60°F (15°C), and Atlantic City averages at about 56°F (13°C).

Washington usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Atlantic City during autumn. Washington gets 197 hours of sunny skies, while Atlantic City receives 197 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Washington usually receives more rain than Atlantic City. Washington gets 2.9 inches (73 mm) of rain, while Atlantic City receives 2.6 inches (67 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Washington or Atlantic City in the Winter?

Both Atlantic City 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 museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Atlantic City this time of year.

It's quite cold in Atlantic City in the winter. The weather in Washington can be very cold. In January, Washington is generally much warmer than Atlantic City. Daily temperatures in Washington average around 35°F (1°C), and Atlantic City fluctuates around 31°F (-0°C).

In the winter, Washington often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Atlantic City. Washington gets 139 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Atlantic City receives 146 hours of full sun.

Washington usually gets less rain in January than Atlantic City. Washington gets 2.7 inches (68 mm) of rain, while Atlantic City receives 3.4 inches (87 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Washington or Atlantic City in the Spring?

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

Washington is a little warmer than Atlantic City in the spring. The daily temperature in Washington averages around 56°F (14°C) in April, and Atlantic City fluctuates around 51°F (10°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Atlantic City this time of the year. In Washington, it's very sunny this time of the year. Washington usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Atlantic City during spring. Washington gets 228 hours of sunny skies, while Atlantic City receives 217 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Washington usually receives less rain than Atlantic City. Washington gets 2.8 inches (72 mm) of rain, while Atlantic City receives 3.2 inches (82 mm) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Atlantic City and Washington