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

Should you visit Washington or Nantucket?

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

Washington

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

Nantucket

Nantucket is a upscale, charming, and serene island. 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 hiking, shopping, and museums.

Washington and Nantucket: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Washington or Nantucket?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Washington. Although Washington and Nantucket are both popular with visitors, Washington has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Washington is more popular for its museums, theatre productions, nightlife, music, big city activities, and quaint atmosphere, while Nantucket is known for its resorts, beaches, historical sights, 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. Nantucket is popular for its pristine beaches, upscale atmosphere, and history of whaling.

How is Washington different from Nantucket?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Washington is renowned for its historical sights. Also, Nantucket is not as popular, but is still a nice island for its sights and museums.

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.

Nantucket offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. There are several museums around town that educate visitors on the island's whaling history and maritime past.

Is Washington or Nantucket Better for Theater?

Washington is a great city for theatre. However, Nantucket is not a theatre destination.

Washington has a number of performance venues where you can see a variety of shows. 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.

Nantucket is not a theatre destination.

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

Foodies will find both Washington and Nantucket both to be fantastic destinations.

Washington has long been recognized as a culinary destination with great restaurants. 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.

Known for it's food and restaurant scene, Nantucket is always at the top of any foodie's travel list. Upscale eateries where you can look out on the water make dining on this island a true experience. There are raw bars, seafood restaurants, and local cafes with elaborate salads and duck carnitas. Dishes usually use the highest quality fresh ingredients and chefs bring their "A game" with every customer.

Is Washington or Nantucket Better for Nightlife?

Washington is a great city for nightlife. Also, Nantucket is not as popular, but is still a nice island for nightlife and partying.

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.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Nantucket. You'll find a number of bars and a lively singles scene in town. There's also live music and a laid back but active atmosphere in the evening.

Is Washington or Nantucket Better for Music?

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

Music lovers will find a few good venues in Washington. Notable live music venues include the 9:30 Club, the Anthem, and Union Stage.

Nantucket is not a live music destination.

Is Washington or Nantucket Better for Resorts?

Nantucket is great for its luxury resorts. However, Washington is not a resort destination.

Vacationers can choose from a number of terrific resorts in Nantucket. Luxury resorts and upscale inns offer guests a relaxed setting with oceanfront views and family-friendly activities.

Washington is not a resort destination.

Is Washington or Nantucket Better for Beaches?

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

Nantucket is a very popular place to visit for its beaches. You'll find the calmest water at the northern beaches, and cooler water with rougher surf to the south. Many of the beaches are accessible from town, but parking can be limited. There are both public and private beaches, each with beautiful settings and relaxing vibes.

Washington is not a beach destination.

Is Washington or Nantucket Better for its Old Town?

Nantucket is great for its historic old town. However, Washington does not have a historic old town.

There is a nice variety of sights in the old town of Nantucket. The Historic District is filled with New England charm, cobblestone streets, and upscale boutiques. There are many great restaurants and a lot of historic character.

Washington does not have a historic old town.

Is Washington or Nantucket Better for Hiking?

Nantucket is great for hiking. However, Washington is not a good destination for the nearby hiking options.

Many visitors go to Nantucket for the hiking trails. The island is easy to explore on foot, and its covered with hiking trails that follow the serene coastline or take you through forests, bogs, and marshland.

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 Nantucket?

If you're looking to go shopping, Washington and Nantucket both offer plenty of very good 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.

Nantucket is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. The Historic District is filled with boutiques, art galleries, and upscale shops. It's the perfect place to spend an afternoon wandering around and shopping.

Is Washington or Nantucket Better for Christmas?

Washington is renowned for its Christmas holiday experiences. However, Nantucket 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.

Nantucket does not offer Christmas activities.

Is Washington or Nantucket Better for Families?

You'll find very good kid-friendly activities in either Washington or Nantucket.

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.

Nantucket is a very kid-friendly city. There's a calm beach that's perfect for kids as well as quaint ice cream shops and plenty of New England charm. The town is also filled with hiking and biking trails.

Is Washington or Nantucket Better for Couples?

Nantucket is a world-class destination for romance. Also, Washington is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its romantic activities.

For those traveling as a couple, Nantucket has plenty to offer. The New England charm, natural beauty, and relaxing coastal atmosphere make this a perfect romantic destination. There are also many romantic places to stay and great local restaurants.

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.

Is Washington or Nantucket Better for Students?

Washington is renowned for its student-friendly activities. However, Nantucket is not popular with students.

Students come from all over the world to visit 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.

Nantucket is not popular with students.

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

Washington is renowned for times when you don't have a car. Also, Nantucket is not as popular, but is still a nice island for its public transit.

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

Nantucket has a few public transit options. There are shuttle buses around the island that operate with greater frequency during the summer months.

Is Washington or Nantucket a more walkable city?

Washington is renowned for its walkability. Also, Nantucket is not as popular, but is still a nice island for its high level of 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.

Nantucket is a very walkable city. The town is very walkable and parking can be challenging, so it's best to leave your car in the ferry parking lot.

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

Should I spend more time in Nantucket or Washington?

How long in Washington or Nantucket?

It's fun to spend time in either Washington or Nantucket. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Washington due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Washington, and 2-4 days is enough time in Nantucket.

Couples should spend more time in Nantucket than Washington. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Nantucket that are perfect for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Washington than Nantucket 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 Nantucket?

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.

Nantucket 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 food. 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 Nantucket?

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.

Even though Nantucket is a small town, it has plenty of activities to choose from. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. It offers something for everyone. Many people spend a weekend here. One of the main draws to the area is the food. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this island.

Five days in Washington or Nantucket?

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.

Nantucket, a popular island, is full of activities for travelers. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. 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 Nantucket?

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.

Nantucket is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. One of the main draws to the area is the food. 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 Nantucket, we can see that Nantucket is more expensive. And not only is Washington much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Washington would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Washington 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 Nantucket would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Nantucket than you might in Washington.

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

Which is Bigger, Washington or Nantucket?

Washington has a larger population, and is about 40 times larger than the population of Nantucket. When comparing the sizes of Washington and Nantucket, 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 Nantucket?

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 Nantucket in the Summer?

Both Nantucket and Washington are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The summer months attract visitors to Washington because of the hiking, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, the beaches, the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Nantucket this time of year.

Washington is a little warmer than Nantucket in the summer. The daily temperature in Washington averages around 79°F (26°C) in July, and Nantucket fluctuates around 68°F (20°C).

In July, Washington usually receives less rain than Nantucket. Washington gets 3.5 inches (88 mm) of rain, while Nantucket receives 3.8 inches (96 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Washington or Nantucket in the Autumn?

Both Nantucket and Washington during the autumn are popular places to visit. The hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Washington this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Nantucket for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area.

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

Nantucket gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Washington usually gets less rain in October than Nantucket. Washington gets 2.9 inches (73 mm) of rain, while Nantucket receives 4.4 inches (111 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Washington or Nantucket in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Washington and Nantucket. Many travelers come to Washington for the museums, the Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine. Furthermore, many visitors come to Nantucket in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Nantucket can get quite cold in the winter. Be prepared for some very cold days in Washington. In January, Washington is generally much warmer than Nantucket. Daily temperatures in Washington average around 35°F (1°C), and Nantucket fluctuates around 31°F (-0°C).

Nantucket receives a lot of rain in the winter. In January, Washington usually receives less rain than Nantucket. Washington gets 2.7 inches (68 mm) of rain, while Nantucket receives 4.2 inches (106 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Washington or Nantucket in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Washington as well as Nantucket. Many visitors come to Washington in the spring for the activities around the city and the natural beauty. Additionally, most visitors come to Nantucket for the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty during these months.

Washington is much warmer than Nantucket in the spring. The daily temperature in Washington averages around 56°F (14°C) in April, and Nantucket fluctuates around 45°F (7°C).

It's quite rainy in Nantucket. Washington usually gets less rain in April than Nantucket. Washington gets 2.8 inches (72 mm) of rain, while Nantucket receives 4.1 inches (103 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Nantucket and Washington