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

Should you visit Washington or Philadelphia?

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

Washington

Washington is a diverse, active, and monument-filled city. Travelers will also find plenty of sights and attractions here, as it's a big city that attracts lots of visitors. The beauty of Washington is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. This destination also has one of those special and quaint feelings. Visitors also love the live music, food, and shopping. See Washington travel costs.

Philadelphia

Philadelphia is a diverse, historic, and cultural city. It's a large city with plenty of activites for visitors as well. Philadelphia is a gorgeous place to visit. Other reasons to visit include shopping, museums, and theater. See Philadelphia travel costs.

Washington and Philadelphia: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Washington or Philadelphia?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Philadelphia than Washington. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Philadelphia is very popular for its music, historical sights, and christmas markets, while Washington attracts visitors for its food, hiking, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere. Washington is more touristy than Philadelphia and is known for its reputation as the capital of the United States, but it's also known for its many monuments, memorials, and museums. Philadelphia is famous for its diverse population, large number of universities, great restaurant and market scene, and its role in American history. It is also well known for The Liberty Bell.

How is Washington different from Philadelphia?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Spend time exploring the terrific sights and museums in either Washington or Philadelphia.

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.

The museums, monuments, and landmarks in Philadelphia are among the most recognizable in the world. The city has a rich history with a number of museums and monuments. Popular sites around the city include the Liberty Bell, Independence Hall, the Philadelphia Museum of Art, and the National Museum of Jewish American History.

Is Washington or Philadelphia Better for Theater?

There are excellent theater venues available in both Washington and Philadelphia.

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.

Many visitors plan to see a show while visiting Philadelphia. There are major Broadway shows as well as smaller venues. Head to The Avenue of the Arts along Broad Street for a popular stretch of theaters.

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

Washington is a must-visit destination for its restaurants. Also, Philadelphia is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

Known for it's food and restaurant scene, Washington is always at the top of any foodie's travel list. 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.

Dining out in Philadelphia is an experience not to be missed. It has grown into a well-recognized food destination. It's diversity of cultures and residents have influenced the restaurant scene and you'll find many great places to dine covering a number of international flavors. The city is famous for its Philly cheesesteak and roast pork sandwich. You can also grab some local favorites at Reading Terminal Market.

Is Washington or Philadelphia Better for Nightlife?

The vibe at night is excellent in both Washington and Philadelphia.

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.

Philadelphia has plenty to do after the sun goes down. The city's nightlife scene carries late into the evening with many rooftop and outdoor beer gardens. Most of the clubs and bars are found in the downtown area and you'll find places to dance, listen to live music, or sip a trendy cocktails.

Is Washington or Philadelphia Better for Music?

Philadelphia is great for live music. Also, Washington is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its live music scene.

The music scene in Philadelphia draws a good crowd. The city's diverse music scene includes jazz, rock, and hip hop.

The music scene helps keep Washington active and fun. Notable live music venues include the 9:30 Club, the Anthem, and Union Stage.

Is Washington or Philadelphia Better for its Old Town?

Philadelphia is very good for its historic old town. However, Washington does not have a historic old town.

Philadelphia is a good destination for visiting its old town. The Old City has a number of Colonial-era sites including Independence Hall, the Liberty Bell, the Betsy Ross House.

Washington does not have a historic old town.

Is Washington or Philadelphia Better for Hiking?

Washington is a decent place to visit for its hiking trails. However, Philadelphia is not a hiking destination.

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.

Philadelphia is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Washington or Philadelphia?

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

Philadelphia is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. With all items tax-free, this city is a great place to shop. It has many boutique shops as well as name brand stores and shopping areas. For a local vibe, head to Reading Terminal Market.

Is Washington or Philadelphia More Beautiful?

Washington is an excellent place to visit for its scenery and beauty. Also, Philadelphia is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its scenery and beauty.

The beauty of Washington is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. The city is particularly beautiful when it lights up at night or when the Cherry Blossoms are in bloom.

Philadelphia offers plenty of beauty for visitors. With its diverse neighborhoods and rich history, this city offers its own type of beauty.

Is Washington or Philadelphia Better for Families?

You'll find excellent kid-friendly activities in either Washington or Philadelphia.

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.

Philadelphia is a very kid-friendly city. The city has many museums and a fascinating history that is interesting to kids and adults alike. Popular activities include a zoo and Sesame Place. Kids also love the hands-on Please Touch Museum.

Is Washington or Philadelphia Better for Couples?

Washington is an excellent place to visit for its romantic activities. Also, Philadelphia is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for couples.

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.

Philadelphia is a good city for couples to visit. Like many large cities, it is a fun place to explore in the evening as a couple. This is also a great foodie destination with great markets, food trucks, and diverse restaurants that reflect the city's diverse population.

Is Washington or Philadelphia Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Philadelphia is very good for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Washington is not a good destination for backpackers.

Philadelphia is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. There are a few good hostels for backpackers and budget travelers to choose from.

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 Philadelphia Better for Students?

Washington is a must-visit destination for its student-friendly activities. Also, Philadelphia is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for students.

Washington is a great destination 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.

Students come from all over to stay in Philadelphia. With its many universities and diverse population, this city is a great place for international students.

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

Washington is a must-visit destination for times when you don't have a car. Also, Philadelphia is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its public transit.

Washington has a world-class public transit network to take passengers everywhere in the city. The metro system and the bus system are reliable and efficient ways to explore the city.

Many visitors use the public transit system in Philadelphia. The system includes a subway, trolleys, buses, and a commuter rail.

Is Washington or Philadelphia a more walkable city?

Washington and Philadelphia are terrific 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 Philadelphia on foot. The Old City is particularly walkable, as is Avenue of the Arts, and Rittenhouse Square.

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

Should I spend more time in Philadelphia or Washington?

How long in Washington or Philadelphia?

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

Couples should spend more time in Washington than Philadelphia. 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 Philadelphia than Washington 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 Philadelphia.

One day in Washington or Philadelphia?

Each neighborhood in Washington has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

With theater and nightlife around the cultural city of Philadelphia, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. One of the main draws to the area is the museums. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Washington or Philadelphia?

Washington is a fun place to experience. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring.

With nightlife and live music around the big city destination of Philadelphia, there's plenty to do. It offers something for everyone. Many people spend a weekend here. One of the main draws to the area is the museums. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this city.

Five days in Washington or Philadelphia?

Each neighborhood in Washington has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Plenty of people spend five days in the area when traveling. So, five days is just the right amount of time to spend here.

Philadelphia, a popular city, is full of activities for travelers. 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 Philadelphia?

Washington is a popular place to visit. Many people spend one week here. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then one week is just the right amount of time to spend here. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Philadelphia is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. One of the main draws to the area is the museums. 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 Historical Tours in United States of America, The Best 10-Day Tours in United States of America, The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in United States of America, and Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in United States of America.

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

Which is Bigger, Washington or Philadelphia?

Philadelphia has a larger population, and is about 3 times larger than the population of Washington. When comparing the sizes of Washington and Philadelphia, 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 Philadelphia?

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 Philadelphia in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Washington and Philadelphia. The hiking, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Washington this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Philadelphia for the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Washington is around the same temperature as Philadelphia. Typically, the summer temperatures in Washington in July average around 79°F (26°C), and Philadelphia averages at about 77°F (25°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Philadelphia 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 Philadelphia during summer. Washington gets 278 hours of sunny skies, while Philadelphia receives 273 hours of full sun in the summer.

Philadelphia receives a lot of rain in the summer. In July, Washington usually receives less rain than Philadelphia. Washington gets 3.5 inches (88 mm) of rain, while Philadelphia receives 3.9 inches (100 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Washington or Philadelphia in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Washington as well as Philadelphia. Many travelers 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. Also, many visitors come to Philadelphia in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Washington is generally a little warmer than Philadelphia. Daily temperatures in Washington average around 60°F (15°C), and Philadelphia fluctuates around 56°F (14°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Philadelphia. In the autumn, Washington often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Philadelphia. Washington gets 197 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Philadelphia receives 202 hours of full sun.

Washington usually gets more rain in October than Philadelphia. Washington gets 2.9 inches (73 mm) of rain, while Philadelphia receives 1.9 inches (48 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Washington or Philadelphia in the Winter?

Both Philadelphia and Washington are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Washington in the winter for the museums, the Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Philadelphia for the museums, the Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine during these months.

Philadelphia can be very cold during winter. Washington can get quite cold in the winter. Washington is much warmer than Philadelphia in the winter. The daily temperature in Washington averages around 35°F (1°C) in January, and Philadelphia fluctuates around 30°F (-1°C).

Washington usually receives less sunshine than Philadelphia during winter. Washington gets 139 hours of sunny skies, while Philadelphia receives 152 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Washington usually receives more rain than Philadelphia. Washington gets 2.7 inches (68 mm) of rain, while Philadelphia receives 2.3 inches (58 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Washington or Philadelphia in the Spring?

Both Philadelphia and Washington during the spring are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Washington for the activities around the city and the natural beauty during these months. Furthermore, the spring months attract visitors to Philadelphia because of the activities around the city and the natural beauty.

In the spring, Washington is a little warmer than Philadelphia. Typically, the spring temperatures in Washington in April average around 56°F (14°C), and Philadelphia averages at about 52°F (11°C).

In Philadelphia, 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 Philadelphia. Washington gets 228 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Philadelphia receives 216 hours of full sun.

Washington usually gets around the same amount of rain in April as Philadelphia. Washington gets 2.8 inches (72 mm) of rain, while Philadelphia receives 2.8 inches (70 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Philadelphia and Washington