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

Should you visit Washington or Mystic?

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 Mystic 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.

Mystic

Mystic is a charming, quaint, and laid back town. Other reasons to visit include shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Washington and Mystic: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Washington or Mystic?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Washington. Although Washington and Mystic 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, hiking, big city activities, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere, while Mystic is known for its beaches. 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. Mystic is popular for its New England charm and local character.

How is Washington different from Mystic?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Washington is an amazing city to visit for its museums and history. Also, Mystic 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.

Mystic offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. There's a decent selection of museums around town with some of the favorites being the Mystic Seaport Museum, the Mystic Museum of Art, the Denison Homestead Museum, and the Old Lighthouse Museum, The Mystic Aquarium is also a popular destination.

Is Washington or Mystic Better for Theater?

Washington is an excellent place to visit for theatre. However, Mystic is not a theatre destination.

Washington offers many theater and performance venues for visitors. 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.

Mystic is not a theatre destination.

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

Washington is an amazing city to visit for its restaurants. Also, Mystic is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

Eat your way through Washington, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. 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.

Visitors will find a budding food and restaurant scene in Mystic. As a coastal town, you'll find no shortage of seafood at many restaurants. Popular dishes include oysters, shrimp, or fish. There are also many casual restaurants that serve comfort food for classic American favorites like mac and cheese, pasta, or burgers.

Is Washington or Mystic Better for Nightlife?

Washington is an excellent place to visit for nightlife. Also, Mystic is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for nightlife and partying.

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.

Mystic has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. Head downtown for the most interesting bars and breweries. You can sip wine or enjoy a cocktail at a laid back pub with friends or family.

Is Washington or Mystic Better for Music?

Washington is a good destination for live music. However, Mystic is not a live music destination.

You don't have to look far to find a unique music venue in Washington. Notable live music venues include the 9:30 Club, the Anthem, and Union Stage.

Mystic is not a live music destination.

Is Washington or Mystic Better for Beaches?

Mystic is great for its beaches. However, Washington is not a beach destination.

Mystic is a very popular place to visit for its beaches. The beaches are accessible from town and offer a laid back setting that's not overly developed. Families will like Ocean Beach Park but Williams Beach Park is one of the easiest beaches to access. If you're willing to drive a bit out of town, you should check out Misquamicut State Beach.

Washington is not a beach destination.

Is Washington or Mystic Better for Hiking?

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

Mystic is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Washington or Mystic?

If you're looking to go shopping, Washington and Mystic both offer plenty of high quality 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.

Mystic is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. Head downtown for scenic shopping streets with boutiques, artisan craft shops, and jewelry stores.

Is Washington or Mystic Better for Christmas?

Washington is an amazing city to visit for its Christmas holiday experiences. However, Mystic 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.

Mystic does not offer Christmas activities.

Is Washington or Mystic Better for Families?

You'll find high quality kid-friendly activities in either Washington or Mystic.

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.

Mystic is a very kid-friendly city. Animal lovers will enjoy wandering around the many trails at Denison Pequotsepos Nature Center or visiting the famous Mystic Aquarium. You can also visit the shops around Olde Mistick Village or dine at one of the many kid-friendly restaurants.

Is Washington or Mystic Better for Couples?

Washington is an excellent place to visit for romance. Also, Mystic is not quite as popular, but is fairly good 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.

Mystic makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Check out Mystic Seaport or drive down the coastline and visit the lighthouses. You'll also find breweries around town as well as many fun or romantic restaurants.

Is Washington or Mystic Better for Students?

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

Washington is a very popular place to visit 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.

Mystic is not popular with students.

Is Washington or Mystic 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, Mystic is lacking in 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 limited or non-existant in Mystic. There is a bus but it has limited stops and only runs on weekdays.

Is Washington or Mystic a more walkable city?

Washington is an amazing city to visit for its walkability. However, Mystic is lacking in 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.

Mystic is generally not very walkable. While parts of town are very walkable, you'll need a car if you want to see the sights that are a bit further away.

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

Should I spend more time in Mystic or Washington?

How long in Washington or Mystic?

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

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

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 museums and nightlife around the quaint town of Mystic, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. 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 Mystic?

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 nightlife and food around the destination of Mystic, there's plenty to do. It's also a great beach destination, too. It offers something for everyone. Many people spend a weekend here. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this town.

Five days in Washington or Mystic?

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.

Mystic, a popular town, is full of activities for travelers. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. 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 Mystic?

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.

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

Which is Bigger, Washington or Mystic?

Washington has a larger population, and is about 110 times larger than the population of Mystic. When comparing the sizes of Washington and Mystic, 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 Mystic?

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 Mystic in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Washington and Mystic. Many visitors come to Washington in the summer for the hiking, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Mystic for the beaches and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

Washington is a little warmer than Mystic in the summer. The daily temperature in Washington averages around 79°F (26°C) in July, and Mystic fluctuates around 73°F (23°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Mystic this time of the year. In Washington, it's very sunny this time of the year. Washington usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Mystic during summer. Washington gets 278 hours of sunny skies, while Mystic receives 293 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Washington usually receives more rain than Mystic. Washington gets 3.5 inches (88 mm) of rain, while Mystic receives 2.8 inches (72 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Washington or Mystic in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Washington as well as Mystic. Most visitors 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 during these months. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Mystic because of the shopping scene.

In the autumn, Washington is a little warmer than Mystic. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Washington in October average around 60°F (15°C), and Mystic averages at about 53°F (12°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Mystic. In the autumn, Washington often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Mystic. Washington gets 197 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Mystic receives 211 hours of full sun.

Washington usually gets less rain in October than Mystic. Washington gets 2.9 inches (73 mm) of rain, while Mystic receives 3.3 inches (83 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Washington or Mystic in the Winter?

Both Mystic and Washington are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The winter months attract visitors to Washington because of the museums, the Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine. Also, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Mystic this time of year.

It's quite cold in Mystic in the winter. The weather in Washington can be very cold. In January, Washington is generally much warmer than Mystic. Daily temperatures in Washington average around 35°F (1°C), and Mystic fluctuates around 28°F (-2°C).

Washington usually receives less sunshine than Mystic during winter. Washington gets 139 hours of sunny skies, while Mystic receives 170 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Washington usually receives less rain than Mystic. Washington gets 2.7 inches (68 mm) of rain, while Mystic receives 3.5 inches (89 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Washington or Mystic in the Spring?

Both Mystic and Washington during the spring are popular places to visit. The activities around the city and the natural beauty are the main draw to Washington this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Mystic for the beaches.

Washington is a little warmer than Mystic in the spring. The daily temperature in Washington averages around 56°F (14°C) in April, and Mystic fluctuates around 48°F (9°C).

In Mystic, 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 Mystic. Washington gets 228 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Mystic receives 225 hours of full sun.

Washington usually gets less rain in April than Mystic. Washington gets 2.8 inches (72 mm) of rain, while Mystic receives 3.7 inches (94 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Mystic and Washington