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

Should you visit Washington or Ocean City?

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 Ocean City can help you decide which place is right for you.

Washington

Washington is a international, diverse, and active 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. Other popular activities here include food, shopping, and museums.

Ocean City

Ocean City is a energetic, fun-filled, and laid back city. Other reasons to visit include nightlife, food, and beaches.

Washington and Ocean City: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Washington or Ocean City?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Washington than Ocean City, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Washington is better known for its museums, theatre productions, food, music, hiking, shopping, big city activities, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere, while Ocean City is more popular for its resorts and beaches. Ocean City is more touristy than Washington and is popular for its miles of sandy beach, fun-filled activities, and thrilling water sports. 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.

How is Washington different from Ocean City?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Washington is a world-class destination for its sights and museums. However, Ocean City is not a good city for its museums and history.

You'll find many recognizable landmarks that put Washington on the map. 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 Ocean City specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. Most people spend their time on the beach, but for the rainy days you can check out the Ocean City Life-Saving Station Museum or the Art League of Ocean City.

Is Washington or Ocean City Better for Theater?

Washington is a well-known place for its shows and theatre. However, Ocean City 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.

Ocean City is not a theatre destination.

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

Washington is a world-class destination for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Ocean City is not as famous, but is still a good city 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.

There are plenty of up and coming restaurants around Ocean City. Themed restaurants are popular in the area. You'll also find all-you-can-eat seafood buffets and casual diners with pancakes and waffles. Pizza, burgers, and other fast food options are also abundant.

Is Washington or Ocean City Better for Nightlife?

The vibe at night is great in both Washington and Ocean City.

Many people head to Washington for the nightlife scene. 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.

Ocean City has plenty to do after the sun goes down. Happy hours are popular at the bars in the area. You'll also find live music and DJ led parties. Head to the boardwalk, which will overwhelm your senses. There are neon lights, colorful rides, and arcades filled with people and activities.

Is Washington or Ocean City Better for Music?

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

Ocean City is not a live music destination.

Is Washington or Ocean City Better for Resorts?

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

Vacationers can choose from a number of terrific resorts in Ocean City. There are many oceanfront resorts with pools and rooms with ocean views. The hotels along the beach tend to be the most expensive, but if you find a place across from the Coastal Highway, it's very challenging to walk to the beach.

Washington is not a resort destination.

Is Washington or Ocean City Better for Beaches?

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

Ocean City is a very popular place to visit for its beaches. There are ten miles of sandy beach that are lined with hotels and resorts. A festive boardwalk runs along the coastline and has many rides, arcades, restaurants, and more. The beach offers waves and warm water during the summer months.

Washington is not a beach destination.

Is Washington or Ocean City Better for Hiking?

Washington is a moderate city for the nearby hiking options. However, Ocean City is not a hiking destination.

Hiking is a fun activity while in 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.

Ocean City is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Washington or Ocean City?

Washington is a well-known place for its shopping areas. However, Ocean City is not a good city for shopping.

Browsing through shops is a popular activity 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.

Ocean City is a good destination for shopping. You'll find surf stores and souvenir shops along the three mile boardwalk. There are also many vendors and shopping centers along the Coastal Highway. For something a little more interesting you can head to the Inlet Village.

Is Washington or Ocean City Better for Christmas?

Washington is a world-class destination for its Christmas activities. However, Ocean City 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.

Ocean City does not offer Christmas activities.

Is Washington or Ocean City Better for Families?

Ocean City is a world-class destination for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Washington is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its family-friendly activities.

Ocean City is one of the most popular family destinations. Beyond the family-friendly beach, there's also minigolf, dolphin tours, and themed-restaurants that are perfect for kids. Head to the Jolly Roger amusement park for a thrilling afternoon or spend some time visiting Ripley's Believe It or Not. The boardwalk is lined with activities for both kids and adults. There are also candy shops, ice cream parlors, and pizza joints where you can grab a bite to eat.

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.

Is Washington or Ocean City Better for Couples?

Both Washington and Ocean City 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.

Ocean City is a very popular place to visit for couples. Hotels line the beach, many with beautiful views and nice pools. You can take long romantic walks along the coastline or head to one of the many seafood restaurants in town.

Is Washington or Ocean City Better for Students?

Washington is a world-class destination for students. However, Ocean City 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.

Ocean City is not popular with students.

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

Washington is a world-class destination for its public transit. However, Ocean City is not a good city for times when you don't have a car.

With a huge network, the transit system in Washington can get you around easily. The metro system and the bus system are reliable and efficient ways to explore the city.

Public transit is mostly limited in Ocean City. There are boardwalk trams as well as shuttle buses, but most people have their own vehicle, and its recommended you have a private car to get around.

Is Washington or Ocean City a more walkable city?

Washington is a world-class destination for its ease of walking around. However, Ocean City is not a good city for its walkability.

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.

Ocean City is generally not a very walkable city. If you stay at an oceanfront hotel or on the ocean block, it's possible to walk to the beach. If you stay further back, you'll have to cross the Coastal Highway, which is eight lanes of busy traffic.

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

Should I spend more time in Ocean City or Washington?

How long in Washington or Ocean City?

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

Families should spend more time in Ocean City than Washington. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Ocean City, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Couples should spend more time in Washington than Ocean City. 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 Ocean City 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 Ocean City?

When visiting Washington, people usually allow for lots of time. 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.

With food and nightlife around the energetic city of Ocean City, 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 Ocean City?

When visiting Washington, people usually allow for lots of time. It offers something for everyone. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything.

With nightlife and food around the destination of Ocean City, there's plenty to do. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. It offers something for everyone. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything.

Five days in Washington or Ocean City?

Washington, a popular city, is full of activities for travelers. This is a popular place to visit for five days. In five days, you should have a good grasp of this city. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Ocean City, a popular city, 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 city. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

A week in Washington or Ocean City?

Washington is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have one week, this city makes for a great vacation. One week should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Ocean City is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have one week, this city makes for a great vacation. One week should give you a good understanding of everything this city 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 we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Washington and Ocean City, we can see that Washington is more expensive. And not only is Ocean City much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Ocean City would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Ocean City 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 Washington would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Washington than you might in Ocean City.

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

Which is Bigger, Washington or Ocean City?

Washington has a larger population, and is about 80 times larger than the population of Ocean City. When comparing the sizes of Washington and Ocean City, 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 Ocean City?

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 Ocean City in the Summer?

Both Ocean City 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 Ocean City because of the beaches and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Washington is generally around the same temperature as Ocean City. Daily temperatures in Washington average around 79°F (26°C), and Ocean City fluctuates around 77°F (25°C).

Ocean City gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Washington usually gets less rain in July than Ocean City. Washington gets 3.5 inches (88 mm) of rain, while Ocean City receives 4.3 inches (110 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Washington or Ocean City in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Washington and Ocean City. 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 shopping scene are the main draw to Ocean City this time of year.

Washington is around the same temperature as Ocean City in the autumn. The daily temperature in Washington averages around 60°F (15°C) in October, and Ocean City fluctuates around 58°F (14°C).

In October, Washington usually receives less rain than Ocean City. Washington gets 2.9 inches (73 mm) of rain, while Ocean City receives 3.4 inches (87 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Washington or Ocean City in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Washington as well as Ocean City. 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 Ocean City for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Ocean City. It's quite cold in Washington in the winter. In the winter, Washington is around the same temperature as Ocean City. Typically, the winter temperatures in Washington in January average around 35°F (1°C), and Ocean City averages at about 35°F (2°C).

Washington usually gets less rain in January than Ocean City. Washington gets 2.7 inches (68 mm) of rain, while Ocean City receives 3.6 inches (93 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Washington or Ocean City in the Spring?

Both Ocean City 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 Ocean City in the spring for the beaches.

In April, Washington is generally a little warmer than Ocean City. Daily temperatures in Washington average around 56°F (14°C), and Ocean City fluctuates around 54°F (12°C).

In April, Washington usually receives less rain than Ocean City. Washington gets 2.8 inches (72 mm) of rain, while Ocean City receives 3.2 inches (81 mm) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Ocean City and Washington