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

Should you visit Washington or Duck?

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

Washington

Washington is a international, diverse, and active 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.

Duck

Duck is a traditional, compact, and charming beach town. With plenty of activities and sights, this is a small town worth visiting. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Other reasons to visit include shopping, food, and beaches.

Washington and Duck: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Numerous theater shows
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Popular at Christmas
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for students
  • Good public transit
  • Big city activities
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to the Washington Monument and the White House
Things to Consider
  • Less hiking options
Pros
  • Nice resorts
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Small town charm
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • Less popular for food
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Public transit not as usable


Is there more to do in Washington or Duck?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Washington. Although Washington and Duck are both popular with visitors, Washington has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Washington is more popular for its museums, theatre productions, food, nightlife, music, big city activities, and quaint atmosphere, while Duck is known for its resorts, beaches, hiking, and small town charm. 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. Duck is popular for its quaint atmosphere and small town charm.

How is Washington different from Duck?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Washington
Duck

Washington is renowned for its sights and museums. However, Duck is not a good beach town for its museums and history.

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.

If you're looking to pass the time, head to a museum or historic sight in Duck. Hanging out at the beach and enjoy water sports or outdoor activities are the main draw of this town. You won't find much in the form of museums or indoor activities.


Is Washington or Duck Better for Theater?

Washington
Duck

Washington is a well-known place for theatre. However, Duck 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.

Duck is not a theatre destination.

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

Washington
Duck

Washington is renowned for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Duck is not as famous, but is still a good beach town to visit for its restaurants.

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.

Duck has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. For such a small town, there's a decent selection of restaurants that range from local seafood eateries to pizza delivery. Homemade ice cream is a favorite in the area, but you also can't skip out on the flagship Duck Donuts store.

Is Washington or Duck Better for Nightlife?

Washington
Duck

Washington is a well-known place for nightlife. However, Duck is not a good beach town for nightlife and partying.

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.

Those looking for nightlife will find a few places to hang out in Duck. It's known as a family-friendly destination that isn't often associated with a strong nightlife, but there is often live music and other festivals during the summer months.


Is Washington or Duck Better for Music?

Washington
Duck

Washington is a popular place for live music. However, Duck 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.

Duck is not a live music destination.

Is Washington or Duck Better for Resorts?

Washington
Duck

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

Duck has a handful of resorts to choose from. Most of the accommodation around town is in the form of vacation beach rental houses that are perfect for family gatherings or larger groups.

Washington is not a resort destination.

Is Washington or Duck Better for Beaches?

Washington
Duck

Duck is a world-class destination for its beaches. However, Washington is not a beach destination.

With world-famous beaches, Duck is a very popular vacation destination. Long sandy beaches with great surf and a wonderful boardwalk make this a great beach destination. Kids play in the tidal pools and families relax under their beach umbrellas in a classic beach setting.

Washington is not a beach destination.


Is Washington or Duck Better for Hiking?

Washington
Duck

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

Many people include a hike when visiting Duck. The Duck Trail runs for six miles and passes through town. It's popular with walkers, cyclists, and inline skaters.

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 Duck?

Washington
Duck

If you're looking to go shopping, Washington and Duck both offer plenty of great 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.

Duck is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. Head to the Waterfront Shops for some of the town's best shopping. You can wander along the boardwalk and check out the independent vendors and local restaurants.

Is Washington or Duck Better for Christmas?

Washington
Duck

Washington is renowned for its Christmas activities. However, Duck does not offer Christmas activities.

Washington is a world class destination during the Christmas season. With it's beautiful lights and holiday shows, Christmas is beautiful in the capital of the United States.

Duck does not offer Christmas activities.


Is Washington or Duck Better for Families?

Washington
Duck

You'll find great kid-friendly activities in either Washington or Duck.

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.

Duck is a very kid-friendly city. Kid-friendly beaches, local ice cream joints, and the famed Duck Donuts all make this an ideal kid's beach destination. There's a waterpark nearby and plenty of water sports that the whole family can enjoy. The boardwalk is also a very family-friendly environment.

Is Washington or Duck Better for Couples?

Washington
Duck

Both Washington and Duck are great 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.

Duck is a very popular place to visit for couples. It's a charming beach town with great local restaurants and a beautiful and peaceful setting. For couples who want to enjoy a relaxing beach town without the energy of a larger destination, then this is the perfect place. Much of the accommodation is in the form of rental houses, which can be a bit much for a couple, but the setting is perfect for a weekend escape.

Is Washington or Duck Better for Students?

Washington
Duck

Washington is renowned for students. However, Duck 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.

Duck is not popular with students.


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

Washington
Duck

Washington is renowned for its public transit. However, Duck is not a good beach town 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.

Public transit is mostly limited in Duck. It's best to have a car if you want to exploring the Outer Banks and its many activities.

Is Washington or Duck a more walkable city?

Washington
Duck

Washington and Duck are world-class when it comes to walkability.

Washington is a very easy city to get around 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.

It is easy to get around Duck on foot. It's a wonderfully walkable and pedestrian-friendly town with a great boardwalk and many walking and cycling paths.

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

Should I spend more time in Duck or Washington?

How long in Washington or Duck?

Both Washington and Duck have a number of activities to choose from. In our opinion, Washington has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Washington than Duck. In general, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Washington, and 5-7 days is enough time in Duck.

Families should spend more time in Washington than Duck. 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 Duck. 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 Duck 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.


  • How many days in Washington or Duck? Ideal Length of Stay
    Washington 3-7 
    Duck 5-7

One day in Washington or Duck?

Washington is a big city destination where you can fill many days. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

Duck might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. Anyone can find something fun to do here. One of the main draws to the area is the beaches. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.


A weekend in Washington or Duck?

Washington is a fun place to experience. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Even though Duck is a small town, it has plenty of activities to choose from. It's also a great beach destination, too. It offers something for everyone. One of the main draws to the area is the beaches. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything.

Five days in Washington or Duck?

Washington is a monument-filled big city where you can fill many days. This city offers something for everyone. Plenty of people spend five days in the area when traveling. Five days is often enough time to do most activities.

Duck, a popular beach town, is full of activities for travelers. This is a popular place to visit for five days. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. In five days, you should have a good grasp of this beach town. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

A week in Washington or Duck?

Washington is a international city where you can fill many days. Many people spend one week here. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Because of this, one week is usually enough time for a trip here.

Duck is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have one week, this beach town makes for a great vacation. One of the main draws to the area is the beaches. One week should give you a good understanding of everything this beach town has to offer. 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.


Which place is cheaper, Duck or Washington?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Washington is $198, while the average daily cost in Duck is $188. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Washington and Duck in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Washington $113
    Duck $107
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Washington $226
    Duck $214
Compare Hotels in Washington and Duck

Looking for a hotel in Washington or Duck? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Washington


Hotels in Duck


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Washington Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Washington $47
    Duck $66
Typical Local Transportation Prices in Washington

Some typical examples of transportation costs in Washington are as follows:


  • Metro Day Pass
    $9.00

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Washington

Also for Washington, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Washington DC: Bus transfer from/to Philadelphia: $5.74
  • Washington R. Reagan Airport (DCA) to Washington - Arrival Private Transfer: $52
  • Transfer in private car from Washington Ronald Reagan Airport to Washington City: $53
  • Private Departure Transfer to Baltimore Washington Airport BWI: $60
  • Washington to Washington Airport (IAD) Departure Private Transfer: $64
  • Washington to Baltimore Airport (BWI) Departure Private Transfer: $75
  • Private Transfer- Dulles Airport (IAD) to Washington City Center: $81
  • Private Transfer- Washington City Center to Dulles Airport (IAD): $81
  • Transfer in private vehicle from Washington City to Dulles Airport: $88
  • Washington to Baltimore Washington Airport (BWI) - Departure Private Transfer: $93
  • Arrival Transfer Dulles Airport IAD to Washington DC by Sedan: $106
  • Washington DC: DCA Private Transfer from/to Downtown: $110

Is it cheaper to fly into Washington or Duck?

Prices for flights to both Duck and Washington change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    Washington $38
    Duck $45
Typical Food Prices in Washington

Here are some examples of typical meal expenses from previous travelers to Washington:


  • Water
    $2.00
  • Snacks on Monuments Tour
    $6.15

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Washington

For Washington, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • DC: Buffet Brunch, Lunch, or Dinner Cruise on the Spirit: $69
  • Washington DC Holiday Donut Adventure & Walking Food Tour: $70
  • DC: Gourmet Brunch, Lunch, or Dinner Cruise on the Odyssey: $74
  • Acquired Taste Food Tour in Georgetown: $85
  • Washington D.C.: Georgetown Guided Secret Food Tour: $97
  • Washington, DC: African American History Tour with Dinner: $108
  • Washington,DC: Union Market Private Food Tour: $125
  • Washington D.C.: Taste of Georgetown Walking Food Tour: $129
  • Washington DC: Christmas Eve Gourmet Brunch or Dinner Cruise: $140
  • Washington DC Premier Dinner Cruise: $144
  • Washington DC: Personalized & Private Food Tour with a Local: $151
  • Private Traditional Filipino Cooking Class Near Washington DC : $154

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Washington $24
    Duck $13

Tours and Activities in Washington

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Washington.

  • Private Audio Guided Walking Tour in Washington: $5.45
  • The Kennedy Homes of Georgetown: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $5.99
  • Washington D.C.’s Tidal Basin: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $5.99
  • Blossoming Friendship: A Self-Guided Audio Tour of Washington D.C.’s Tidal Basin: $5.99
  • The Kennedy Homes: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $5.99
  • Scandals & Secrets on Embassy Row: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $5.99
  • Secrets on Embassy Row: A Self-Guided Audio Tour in Washington DC: $5.99
  • DC's Presidents, Pubs, and Parties: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $5.99
  • Washington, DC: Lincoln Assassination Self-Guided Audio Tour: $5.99
  • Washington DC: National Mall Self Guided App Walking Tour: $6.50
  • Lincoln Memorial to the Cap Hill D.C. Smart Phone App/GPS Tour: $6.75
  • Washington DC Outdoor Escape Game Tour: FBI vs. Bank Robbers: $7.09

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Washington $19
    Duck $45

Sample the Local Flavors in Washington

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Washington:

  • Epic Washington DC Bar Crawl: By Let’s Roam: $12
  • Washington DC: Ghosts Boos and Booze Haunted Pub Crawl: $35
  • Small-Group History Tour Pub Crawl of Washington, D.C.: $59
  • Washington, D.C.: History Tour Pub Crawl: $59
  • DC: Guided Craft Brewery Tours with a Snack: $105
  • From Washington DC: Seneca Creek Region Wine Tour with Lunch: $175
  • Full-Day Private Virginia Wine Tour Experience from Washington : $242
  • Private Washington DC Virginia Winery Wine Tasting Tour -Spirited: $255


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


Which is Bigger, Washington or Duck?

Washington has a larger population, and is about 980 times larger than the population of Duck. When comparing the sizes of Washington and Duck, 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 Duck?

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 Duck in the Summer?

Both Duck and Washington during the summer are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Washington for the hiking, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Furthermore, the summer months attract visitors to Duck because of the beaches, the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences.

Washington is around the same temperature as Duck in the summer. The daily temperature in Washington averages around 79°F (26°C) in July, and Duck fluctuates around 78°F (26°C).

In Duck, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Washington. In the summer, Washington often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Duck. Washington gets 278 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Duck receives 279 hours of full sun.

Duck gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Washington usually gets less rain in July than Duck. Washington gets 3.5 inches (88 mm) of rain, while Duck receives 5.4 inches (137 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Washington 79°F (26°C) 
    Duck 78°F (26°C)

Should I visit Washington or Duck in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Washington and Duck. The autumn months attract visitors to Washington because of the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Furthermore, the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Duck this time of year.

In the autumn, Washington is around the same temperature as Duck. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Washington in October average around 60°F (15°C), and Duck averages at about 62°F (16°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Duck this time of the year. Washington usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Duck during autumn. Washington gets 197 hours of sunny skies, while Duck receives 211 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Washington usually receives less rain than Duck. Washington gets 2.9 inches (73 mm) of rain, while Duck receives 3.2 inches (82 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Washington 60°F (15°C) 
    Duck 62°F (16°C)

Should I visit Washington or Duck in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Washington as well as Duck. The museums, the Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine are the main draw to Washington this time of year. Additionally, many travelers come to Duck for the shopping scene and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Duck. It's quite cold in Washington in the winter. In January, Washington is generally much colder than Duck. Daily temperatures in Washington average around 35°F (1°C), and Duck fluctuates around 41°F (5°C).

In the winter, Washington often gets less sunshine than Duck. Washington gets 139 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Duck receives 168 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Duck. Washington usually gets less rain in January than Duck. Washington gets 2.7 inches (68 mm) of rain, while Duck receives 4.1 inches (105 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Washington 35°F (1°C) 
    Duck 41°F (5°C)

Should I visit Washington or Duck in the Spring?

Both Duck and Washington are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Washington for the activities around the city and the natural beauty. Also, many visitors come to Duck in the spring for the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty.

Washington is around the same temperature as Duck in the spring. The daily temperature in Washington averages around 56°F (14°C) in April, and Duck fluctuates around 59°F (15°C).

It's quite sunny in Duck. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Washington. Washington usually receives less sunshine than Duck during spring. Washington gets 228 hours of sunny skies, while Duck receives 253 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Washington usually receives around the same amount of rain as Duck. Washington gets 2.8 inches (72 mm) of rain, while Duck receives 3 inches (75 mm) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Washington 56°F (14°C) 
    Duck 59°F (15°C)

Typical Weather for Duck and Washington

Washington Duck
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 35°F (1°C) 2.7 inches (68 mm) 41°F (5°C) 4.1 inches (105 mm)
Feb 37°F (3°C) 2.7 inches (69 mm) 42°F (6°C) 3.6 inches (92 mm)
Mar 47°F (8°C) 3.2 inches (82 mm) 50°F (10°C) 3.9 inches (98 mm)
Apr 56°F (14°C) 2.8 inches (72 mm) 59°F (15°C) 3 inches (75 mm)
May 66°F (19°C) 3.5 inches (89 mm) 67°F (19°C) 4.6 inches (117 mm)
Jun 75°F (24°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm) 74°F (23°C) 4.1 inches (105 mm)
Jul 79°F (26°C) 3.5 inches (88 mm) 78°F (26°C) 5.4 inches (137 mm)
Aug 78°F (26°C) 3.9 inches (98 mm) 78°F (25°C) 5 inches (127 mm)
Sep 71°F (22°C) 3.3 inches (85 mm) 72°F (22°C) 4.7 inches (119 mm)
Oct 60°F (15°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm) 62°F (16°C) 3.2 inches (82 mm)
Nov 50°F (10°C) 3.2 inches (82 mm) 53°F (12°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm)
Dec 39°F (4°C) 3.2 inches (82 mm) 45°F (7°C) 3.4 inches (85 mm)