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

Should you visit Washington or Denver?

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

Washington

Washington is a international, diverse, and active 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 Washington 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. See Washington travel costs.

Denver

Denver is a accessible, sprawling, and park-filled city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. Other reasons to visit include shopping, skiing, and nightlife. See Denver travel costs.

Washington and Denver: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Washington or Denver?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Washington. Although Washington and Denver are popular destinations, Washington has more sights and attractions for tourists. Washington is very popular for its museums and attractions, theatre productions, food, nightlife, music, shopping, big city activities, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere, while Denver attracts visitors for its skiing and hiking. Washington is more touristy than Denver 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. Denver is famous for serving as a gateway to the Rocky Mountains and the many national parks that are in the area.

How is Washington different from Denver?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Washington or Denver Better for Skiing?

Denver is very good for skiing. However, Washington is not a skiing destination.

Denver is a great destination for skiing with plenty areas to explore. Although there's no skiing in the immediate area, there is a huge list of world class ski resorts within an hour or two of town. Two of the closest are Echo Mountain Resort and Loveland Ski Area.

Washington is not a skiing destination.

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

Washington is renowned for its sights and museums. However, Denver is not a good city for its museums and history.

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.

While most people don't head to Denver specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. Many people use Denver as a starting or ending point for their mountain and national park trip, but those who linger can visit some of the city's museums and sights. Popular museums include the Denver Museum of Nature and Science, the History Colorado Center, and the Forney Museum of Transportation.

Is Washington or Denver Better for Theater?

Washington is a well-known place for its theatre productions. However, Denver 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.

Denver is not a theatre destination.

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

Washington is renowned for its local cuisine and restaurants. However, Denver is not a good city for its restaurants.

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.

Denver may not make the list for most foodies, but you'll find what you need while you're in town. It's a pretty large city, so you'll find some nice local restaurants, but the foodie scene is still emerging in many neighborhoods. A number of restaurants offer outdoor seating, which is nice. You'll also find a growing selection of international restaurants. For something uniquely local, you should try the Bison steak and fried pickles.

Is Washington or Denver Better for Nightlife?

Washington is a well-known place for nightlife and partying. Also, Denver is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its evening party scene.

Washington offers plenty to do in the evening. 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.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Denver. The city has come a long way with its nightlife. There's a great craft beer scene and the downtown area has really come to life. Popular bars and clubs in town include the Grizzly Rose and 54Thirty Rooftop. Many places are concentrated in the Soco Nightlife District.

Is Washington or Denver Better for Music?

Washington is a nice place to visit for its live music scene. However, Denver is not a live music destination.

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

Denver is not a live music destination.

Is Washington or Denver Better for Hiking?

Denver is very good for hiking. However, Washington is not a good destination for the nearby hiking options.

Many people include a hike when visiting Denver. The city is very close to many beautiful parks and hiking areas in the Rocky Mountains. It's not hard to make a day trip from town and enjoy some great hiking. Nice options include the Trading Post Trail in Red Rocks Mountain Park, Bergen Peak near Evergreen, and Chimney Gulch Trail near the town of Golden.

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 Denver?

Washington is a well-known place for its shopping opportunities. Also, Denver is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its shopping areas.

Washington is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. 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.

Denver has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. The city has many outlet malls that budget shoppers appreciate. There are also weekend farmer's markets, boutique shopping areas, and all of the major chains that you'll find in most larger cities.

Is Washington or Denver More Beautiful?

Washington is a well-known place for its scenery and beauty. However, Denver is not a destination known for its beauty.

The beauty of Washington is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. The city is particularly beautiful when it lights up at night or when the Cherry Blossoms are in bloom.

Denver is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Washington or Denver Better for Families?

Washington is a well-known place for its family-friendly activities. Also, Denver is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

Washington is a very kid-friendly city. 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.

Denver is a family-friendly city. It is a family-friendly city with museums, playgrounds, and plenty of outdoor activities. There are also a few ropes courses near town that kids and adults alike will enjoy. Popular activities include the Denver Zoo, the Denver Museum of Nature and Science, and Children's Museum of Denver at Marsico Campus.

Is Washington or Denver Better for Couples?

Washington is a well-known place for its romantic activities. Also, Denver is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for couples.

Washington is a very popular place to visit for couples. 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.

Denver is a good city for couples to visit. There are many beautiful and romantic outdoor activities in the area such as parks and botanical gardens. There are also spas, including the impressive Spa at the Brown Palace, as well as upscale restaurants and fun bars and clubs to explore.

Is Washington or Denver Better for Students?

Washington is renowned for students. Also, Denver is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its student-friendly activities.

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.

Plenty of students visit Denver. There are a few students in the city, but there isn't a college town vibe that you'd get at other nearby university areas.

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

Washington is renowned for its public transit. Also, Denver is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for times when you don't have a car.

Washington has a great public transit system. The metro system and the bus system are reliable and efficient ways to explore the city.

Denver has some public transit options. If you're not planning to leave town, the light rail and bus systems offer good access to much of Denver.

Is Washington or Denver a more walkable city?

Washington is renowned for its high level of walkability. However, Denver is not a good city for its ease of walking around.

It is easy to get around Washington on foot. 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.

Denver is not a very walkable city. While the downtown area is generally walkable, this is still a sprawling city where you'll really want to have a car to access areas outside of town.

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

Should I spend more time in Denver or Washington?

How long in Washington or Denver?

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

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

Washington is a bustling city that offers something for everyone. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

With shopping and skiing around the accessible city of Denver, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Washington or Denver?

Washington is a great place to explore. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

With skiing and nightlife around the destination of Denver, 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 Denver?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Washington. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. With all of its activities, you can easily fill five days here. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Denver, 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 Denver?

Washington is a bustling city that offers something for everyone. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. If you have one week, this is a great place to go. This would be the perfect place to spend one week, as it has just the right amount of activities.

Denver 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 Bicycle Tours in United States of America, Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in United States of America, The Best Coach Bus Tours in United States of America, and The Best Adventure Tours to United States of America.

When comparing the travel costs between Washington and Denver, we can see that Denver 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 Washington Expensive? and Is Denver Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Washington or Denver?

Denver has a larger population, and is about 0% larger than the population of Washington. When comparing the sizes of Washington and Denver, 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.