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

Should you visit Washington or Hilo?

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

Washington

Washington is a monument-filled, international, and diverse 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.

Hilo

Hilo is a friendly, authentic, and laid back town. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Other reasons to visit include museums, food, and beaches.

Washington and Hilo: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Washington or Hilo?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Washington than Hilo, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Washington is better known for its museums, theatre productions, food, nightlife, music, shopping, big city activities, and quaint atmosphere, while Hilo is more popular for its resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and hiking. Washington is well 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. Hilo is well known for its nearby rainforests, waterfalls, and green gardens.

How is Washington different from Hilo?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Washington is very popular for its historical sights. Also, Hilo is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its sights and museums.

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.

Hilo is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. Top museums in and around town include the Lyman Museum, the Pacific Tsunami Museum, Imiloa Astronomy Center, and Mokupapapa Discovery Center.

Is Washington or Hilo Better for Theater?

Washington is a great city for its shows and theatre. However, Hilo 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.

Hilo is not a theatre destination.

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

Washington is very popular for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Hilo is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its local cuisine and 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.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Hilo makes for a great culinary experience. This is the largest city on the island and you'll find a restaurant scene that caters to both locals and tourists. There are a number of local dishes that you can try such as Pla Rad Prik (a Thai fish dish), mushroom pot pie, and crab and avocado melt.

Is Washington or Hilo Better for Nightlife?

Washington is a great city for its evening party scene. However, Hilo is not known for nightlife.

The nightlife in Washington has something for everybody. 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.

Most people don't head to Hilo specifically for the nightlife scene, but you can find a few options. It's a town that goes to bed early, but there are some local bars that have a chill and relaxing atmosphere.

Is Washington or Hilo Better for Music?

Washington is a popular place for its music scene. However, Hilo 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.

Hilo is not a live music destination.

Is Washington or Hilo Better for Resorts?

Hilo is adequate for its luxury resorts. However, Washington is not a resort destination.

Hilo has a few resort options worth checking out. You'll find more hotels than resorts in town.

Washington is not a resort destination.

Is Washington or Hilo Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Hilo is adequate for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Washington is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

There are few places where you can go snorkeling in Hilo. Richardsons Ocean Park is the best snorkeling spot nearby but, in general, the water near town has poor visibility because of the frequent rain.

Washington is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Washington or Hilo Better for Beaches?

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

Many people head to Hilo to enjoy the beach. The town isn't really known for its beaches but there are some decent options if you want to stay nearby and hit the coastline. Beaches in the area include Coconut Island, Reeds Bay Beach Park, and Onekahakaha Beach Park.

Washington is not a beach destination.

Is Washington or Hilo Better for Hiking?

Hilo is a world-class destination for hiking. However, Washington is not a good destination for the nearby hiking options.

Many people visit Hilo specifically for its hiking. You'll find incredible hikes in the area to many impressive waterfalls. There are also coastal trails and hikes to spectacular viewpoints.

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 Hilo?

Washington is a great city for its shopping areas. However, Hilo is not known 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.

Hilo is a good destination for shopping. You can pick up anything you need in town, just head to Hilo Shopping Center.

Is Washington or Hilo Better for Christmas?

Washington is very popular for its Christmas holiday experiences. However, Hilo does not offer Christmas activities.

People travel from all around to experience the Christmas season in Washington. With it's beautiful lights and holiday shows, Christmas is beautiful in the capital of the United States.

Hilo does not offer Christmas activities.

Is Washington or Hilo Better for Families?

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

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.

Hilo is a very kid-friendly city. The town has an authentic and unpretentious vibe that is fun for families. There are low key beaches, farmer's markets, local museums, and nearby hiking. If you want to stay away from the larger resorts and see a more local side to Hawaii, then this is a great option.

Is Washington or Hilo Better for Couples?

Both Washington and Hilo 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.

Hilo is a very popular place to visit for couples. Couples will enjoy visiting Liliuokalani Gardens, taking sunset cruises, and sampling the local cuisine. The town also makes a good base for hiking and exploring the beaches on the island.

Is Washington or Hilo Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Hilo is great for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Washington is not a good destination for backpackers.

Hilo is very popular with the backpacker crowd. The town has several local hostels that many backpackers prefer for their authentic and mellow atmospheres.

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 Hilo Better for Students?

Washington is very popular for its student-friendly activities. However, Hilo 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.

Hilo is not popular with students.

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

Washington is very popular for times when you don't have a car. However, Hilo is not known for its public transit.

Washington has an effecient and thorough public transportation system which can take you anywhere 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 Hilo. The Hele-On is a bus service that connects Hilo to Kona with north and south routes.

Is Washington or Hilo a more walkable city?

Washington is very popular for its ease of walking around. Also, Hilo is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its 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.

Hilo is somewhat walkable. The downtown is a nice place to take a stroll, but if you want to get out of town, and you really should, then you'll need a car.

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

Should I spend more time in Hilo or Washington?

How long in Washington or Hilo?

Both Washington and Hilo 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 Hilo. However, 3-7 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

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

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.

With museums and food around the authentic town of Hilo, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. One of the main draws to the area is the hiking. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Washington or Hilo?

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.

With food and museums around the destination of Hilo, there's plenty to do. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. It offers something for everyone. One of the main draws to the area is the hiking. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything.

Five days in Washington or Hilo?

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.

Hilo, a popular town, is full of activities for travelers. This is a popular place to visit for five days. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. In five days, you should have a good grasp of this town. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

A week in Washington or Hilo?

Washington is a monument-filled 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.

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

When comparing the travel costs between Washington and Hilo, 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 Hilo Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Washington or Hilo?

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

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 Hilo in the Summer?

Both Hilo and Washington are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Washington for the hiking, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Hilo because of the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Washington is generally around the same temperature as Hilo. Daily temperatures in Washington average around 79°F (26°C), and Hilo fluctuates around 76°F (24°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Washington. Washington usually receives more sunshine than Hilo during summer. Washington gets 278 hours of sunny skies, while Hilo receives 169 hours of full sun in the summer.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Hilo. In July, Washington usually receives less rain than Hilo. Washington gets 3.5 inches (88 mm) of rain, while Hilo receives 9.7 inches (247 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Washington or Hilo in the Autumn?

Both Hilo and Washington during the autumn are popular places to visit. 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, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Hilo this time of year.

Washington is much colder than Hilo in the autumn. The daily temperature in Washington averages around 60°F (15°C) in October, and Hilo fluctuates around 76°F (24°C).

In the autumn, Washington often gets more sunshine than Hilo. Washington gets 197 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Hilo receives 138 hours of full sun.

Hilo gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Washington usually gets less rain in October than Hilo. Washington gets 2.9 inches (73 mm) of rain, while Hilo receives 9.8 inches (248 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Washington or Hilo in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Washington and Hilo. The museums, the Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine are the main draw to Washington this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Hilo for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

It's quite cold in Washington in the winter. In the winter, Washington is much colder than Hilo. Typically, the winter temperatures in Washington in January average around 35°F (1°C), and Hilo averages at about 72°F (22°C).

Washington usually receives less sunshine than Hilo during winter. Washington gets 139 hours of sunny skies, while Hilo receives 158 hours of full sun in the winter.

Hilo receives a lot of rain in the winter. In January, Washington usually receives less rain than Hilo. Washington gets 2.7 inches (68 mm) of rain, while Hilo receives 8.7 inches (221 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Washington or Hilo in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Washington as well as Hilo. Many travelers come to Washington for the activities around the city and the natural beauty. Additionally, many visitors come to Hilo in the spring for the beaches and the natural beauty.

In April, Washington is generally much colder than Hilo. Daily temperatures in Washington average around 56°F (14°C), and Hilo fluctuates around 73°F (23°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Washington this time of the year. In the spring, Washington often gets more sunshine than Hilo. Washington gets 228 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Hilo receives 134 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Hilo. Washington usually gets less rain in April than Hilo. Washington gets 2.8 inches (72 mm) of rain, while Hilo receives 15.6 inches (395 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Hilo and Washington