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

Should you visit Washington or Boise?

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 Boise can help you decide which place is right for you.

Washington

Washington is a diverse, active, and monument-filled city. As it's a big city, visitors will find plenty to do, too. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. As this is a very quaint destination, you'll find it has a special atmosphere. It's also popular because of the theater, nightlife, and live music.

Boise

Boise is a friendly, welcoming, and authentic city. Other reasons to visit include nightlife, shopping, and museums.

Washington and Boise: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Washington or Boise?

You'll generally find more things to do in Washington than Boise. Washington is bigger than Boise, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Washington is more touristy than Boise and is known for its reputation as the capital of the United States, but it's also known for its many monuments, memorials, and museums. Also, Washington is famous for The Washington Monument and the White House. Boise is well known for its many outdoor and recreational activities.

How is Washington different from Boise?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Washington is a must-visit destination for its museums and history. Also, Boise is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its museums and landmarks.

With plenty of landmarks, attractions, and museums, Washington has many famous sights for visitors. 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.

Boise is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. As the state capital, there's a nice selection of local museums around town. Favorites include the Boise Art Museum, the Basque Museum & Cultural Center, the Idaho Black History Museum, and Discovery Center.

Is Washington or Boise Better for Theater?

Washington is an excellent place to visit for its shows and theatre. However, Boise is not a theatre destination.

While in town, many visitors enjoy seeing a show in Washington. 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.

Boise is not a theatre destination.

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

Washington is a must-visit destination for its restaurants. However, Boise is lacking in options for its restaurant scene.

For foodies, Washington is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. 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.

Boise offers some easy restaurants to choose from. While Idaho has long been associated with the potato, the locals usually think of "finger steaks" when describing local food. These are deep-friend beef strips that are as good as they sound.

Is Washington or Boise Better for Nightlife?

Washington is an excellent place to visit for its evening party scene. Also, Boise is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for nightlife.

Washington has a lively atmosphere and nightlife is popular here. 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.

Boise has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. In downtown Boise you'll find a selection of bars, lounges, and breweries. There's enough around town to keep the nightlife scene interesting.

Is Washington or Boise Better for Music?

Washington is a popular place for its music scene. However, Boise is not a live music destination.

The music scene in Washington is active and vibrant. Notable live music venues include the 9:30 Club, the Anthem, and Union Stage.

Boise is not a live music destination.

Is Washington or Boise Better for Hiking?

Washington is a decent place to visit for its hiking trails. However, Boise is not a hiking destination.

Hiking is a fun activity while in 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.

Boise is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Washington or Boise?

Washington is an excellent place to visit for its shopping areas. Also, Boise is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for shopping.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in 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.

Boise is a great destination for shopping. You'll find a mix of local boutiques, independent vendors, and suburban shopping centers where you'll find anything that you might need.

Is Washington or Boise Better for Christmas?

Washington is a must-visit destination for its Christmas holiday experiences. However, Boise does not offer Christmas activities.

Known for its popular Christmas activities, Washington draws large crowds. With it's beautiful lights and holiday shows, Christmas is beautiful in the capital of the United States.

Boise does not offer Christmas activities.

Is Washington or Boise Better for Families?

Washington is an excellent place to visit for its kid-friendly activities. However, Boise is lacking in options for its family-friendly activities.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Washington. 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.

Boise doesn't usually come to mind when thinking about kid-friendly destinations. You'll find parks, playgrounds, and the Discovery Center which will help keep kids entertained.

Is Washington or Boise Better for Couples?

Washington is an excellent place to visit for couples. However, Boise is lacking in options for romance.

Washington makes for a fun place to visit for 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.

Boise is not the best destination for a couple to visit. Date night activities include dining at a nice restaurants and seeing a show at the theater.

Is Washington or Boise Better for Students?

Washington is a must-visit destination for its student-friendly activities. However, Boise is not popular with students.

Many students frequent Washington. 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.

Boise is not popular with students.

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

Washington is a must-visit destination for times when you don't have a car. However, Boise is lacking in options for its public transit.

Washington has a world-class public transit network to take passengers everywhere in the city. The metro system and the bus system are reliable and efficient ways to explore the city.

Public transit is generally limited in Boise. There are infrequent buses around town, but visitors usually have a car to get around town efficiently.

Is Washington or Boise a more walkable city?

Washington is a must-visit destination for its ease of walking around. However, Boise is lacking in options for its walkability.

It's very easy to get around on foot in Washington. 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.

Boise is generally not very walkable. There are a couple of walkable neighborhoods but, in general, the town isn't very walkable.

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

Should I spend more time in Boise or Washington?

How long in Washington or Boise?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Washington or Boise to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Washington than Boise because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Washington, and 1-2 days is enough time in Boise.

Families should spend more time in Washington than Boise. 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 Boise. 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 Boise 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 Boise?

Each neighborhood in Washington has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. 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.

With museums and nightlife around the friendly city of Boise, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Boise, one day is sufficent for most.

A weekend in Washington or Boise?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Washington. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

With nightlife and shopping around the destination of Boise, there's plenty to do. It offers something for everyone. Many people spend a weekend here. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this city.

Five days in Washington or Boise?

Washington is a fun place to experience. Each neighborhood in Washington has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. This would be the perfect place to spend five days, as it has just the right amount of activities.

Boise, a popular city, is full of activities for travelers. 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 Boise?

Each neighborhood in Washington has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. Plenty of people spend one week in the area when traveling. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is often enough time to do most activities.

Boise 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 Cultural Tours in United States of America, The Best Camping Tours in United States of America, The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in United States of America, and The Best Walking Tours in United States of America.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Washington and Boise, we can see that Washington is more expensive. And not only is Boise much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Boise would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Boise 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 Boise.

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

Which is Bigger, Washington or Boise?

Washington has a larger population, and is about 4 times larger than the population of Boise. When comparing the sizes of Washington and Boise, 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.