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

Should you visit Washington or Cleveland?

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

Washington

Washington is a diverse, active, and monument-filled 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. Other reasons to visit include shopping, museums, and theater.

Cleveland

Cleveland is a under-rated, diverse, and authentic city. Other reasons to visit include museums, nightlife, and live music.

Washington and Cleveland: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Washington or Cleveland?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Washington than Cleveland, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Washington is more popular for its museums, theatre productions, food, nightlife, hiking, shopping, big city activities, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere, while Cleveland is known for its music. Washington is more touristy than Cleveland 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. It is also home to The Washington Monument and the White House. Cleveland is popular for being the home to "rock 'n roll" as well as its friendly and hard working people.

How is Washington different from Cleveland?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Washington is an amazing city to visit for its museums and history. Also, Cleveland is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its museums and landmarks.

Travelers visit Washington from around the world to see its many world-famous attractions. 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.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into Cleveland. 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.

Is Washington or Cleveland Better for Theater?

Washington is a very popular place for theatre. However, Cleveland is not a theatre destination.

Many visitors plan to see a show while visiting 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.

Cleveland is not a theatre destination.

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

Washington is an amazing city to visit for its restaurants. However, Cleveland is lacking in good options for its restaurant scene.

Known for it's food and restaurant scene, Washington is always at the top of any foodie's travel list. 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.

You'll find the standard options when it comes to food in Cleveland. 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 Washington or Cleveland Better for Nightlife?

Washington is a very popular place for nightlife. Also, Cleveland is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for nightlife and partying.

Washington has a large number of nightlife venues. 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.

Cleveland has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. Breweries have become a popular nighttime activity. There are also comedy clubs, music venues, and several theaters.

Is Washington or Cleveland Better for Music?

Cleveland 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 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.

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 Cleveland Better for Hiking?

Washington is a decent place to visit for its hiking trails. However, Cleveland 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.

Cleveland is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Washington or Cleveland?

Washington is a very popular place for shopping. Also, Cleveland is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its shopping opportunities.

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.

Cleveland offers some nice shopping areas. 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.

Is Washington or Cleveland Better for Christmas?

Washington is an amazing city to visit for its Christmas holiday experiences. However, Cleveland does not offer Christmas activities.

Washington offers plenty of sights and activities around Christmas. With it's beautiful lights and holiday shows, Christmas is beautiful in the capital of the United States.

Cleveland does not offer Christmas activities.

Is Washington or Cleveland Better for Families?

Washington 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.

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.

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 Washington or Cleveland Better for Couples?

Washington is a very popular place for romance. However, Cleveland is lacking in good options for its romantic activities.

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.

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 Washington or Cleveland Better for Students?

Washington is an amazing city to visit for its student-friendly activities. However, Cleveland is not popular with students.

Washington is a great destination 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.

Cleveland is not popular with students.

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

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

Public transit in Washington is top-notch. The metro system and the bus system are reliable and efficient ways to explore the city.

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

Is Washington or Cleveland a more walkable city?

Washington is an amazing city to visit for its walkability. However, Cleveland is lacking in good options for its high level of 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.

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 Washington Worth Visiting? and Is Cleveland Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Cleveland or Washington?

How long in Washington or Cleveland?

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

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

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

A weekend in Washington or Cleveland?

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 Cleveland, 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 Cleveland?

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.

Cleveland, 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 Cleveland?

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.

Cleveland 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 Wildlife Tours to United States of America, The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in United States of America, The Best Historical Tours in United States of America, and The Best 10-Day Tours in United States of America.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Washington or Cleveland?

Washington has a larger population, and is about 23% larger than the population of Cleveland. When comparing the sizes of Washington 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 Washington 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 Washington or Cleveland in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Washington and Cleveland. The hiking, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Washington this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Cleveland for the music scene and the family-friendly experiences.

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

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Cleveland this time of the year. In Washington, it's very sunny this time of the year. Washington usually receives less sunshine than Cleveland during summer. Washington gets 278 hours of sunny skies, while Cleveland receives 307 hours of full sun in the summer.

Cleveland receives a lot of rain in the summer. In July, Washington usually receives less rain than Cleveland. Washington gets 3.5 inches (88 mm) of rain, while Cleveland receives 4 inches (101 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Washington or Cleveland in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Washington as well as Cleveland. Many travelers 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. Additionally, many visitors come to Cleveland in the autumn for the shopping scene and the music scene.

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

In the autumn, Washington often gets more sunshine than Cleveland. Washington gets 197 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Cleveland receives 165 hours of full sun.

Washington usually gets more rain in October than Cleveland. Washington gets 2.9 inches (73 mm) of rain, while Cleveland receives 1.9 inches (49 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Washington or Cleveland in the Winter?

Both Cleveland and Washington are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Washington in the winter for the museums, the Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Cleveland for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Cleveland can be very cold during winter. Washington can get quite cold in the winter. In January, Washington is generally much warmer than Cleveland. Daily temperatures in Washington average around 35°F (1°C), and Cleveland fluctuates around 28°F (-2°C).

Washington usually receives more sunshine than Cleveland during winter. Washington gets 139 hours of sunny skies, while Cleveland receives 95 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Washington usually receives more rain than Cleveland. Washington gets 2.7 inches (68 mm) of rain, while Cleveland receives 1.5 inches (39 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Washington or Cleveland in the Spring?

Both Cleveland and Washington during the spring are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Washington for the activities around the city and the natural beauty during these months.

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

In Cleveland, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Washington. In the spring, Washington often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Cleveland. Washington gets 228 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Cleveland receives 213 hours of full sun.

Washington usually gets around the same amount of rain in April as Cleveland. Washington gets 2.8 inches (72 mm) of rain, while Cleveland receives 2.8 inches (71 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Cleveland and Washington