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

Should you visit Washington or Pittsburgh?

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 Pittsburgh 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.

Pittsburgh

Pittsburgh is a industrial, authentic, and under-rated city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. Other reasons to visit include museums, nightlife, and food.

Washington and Pittsburgh: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Numerous theater shows
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Good for hiking
  • Popular at Christmas
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for students
  • Good public transit
  • Very walkable
  • Big city activities
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to the Washington Monument and the White House
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with backpackers
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for food
  • Less popular with couples
  • Less popular with backpackers
  • Public transit not as usable
  • Less walkable


Is there more to do in Washington or Pittsburgh?

You'll generally find more things to do in Washington than Pittsburgh. Washington is bigger than Pittsburgh, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Washington is more touristy than Pittsburgh 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. Also, Washington is famous for The Washington Monument and the White House. Pittsburgh is well known for its many bridges, its steel industry, and being the home of "Mr. Roger's Neighborhood".

How is Washington different from Pittsburgh?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Washington
Pittsburgh

Washington is a must-visit destination for its historical sights. Also, Pittsburgh is not as popular, but is still a nice city 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.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into Pittsburgh. The museums range from science and nature focused, like the Phipps Conservatory and Botanical Garden, to quirky and artsy, like the Mattress Factory. The Warhol Museum is dedicated to the works of Andy Warhol and it's not to be missed. Also worth a visit is the Heinz History Center, Randyland, and the Carnegie Museums of Art and Natural History.


Is Washington or Pittsburgh Better for Theater?

Washington
Pittsburgh

Washington is great for its shows and theatre. However, Pittsburgh is not a theatre destination.

Many visitors plan to see a show while visiting 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.

Pittsburgh is not a theatre destination.

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

Washington
Pittsburgh

Washington is a must-visit destination for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Pittsburgh is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its local cuisine and restaurants.

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.

Pittsburgh offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. The city is known for its working class roots, and the food is hearty and filling, which is great for those on a budget. Popular local dishes include pierogis, deli sandwiches, Pittsburgh salads (complete with French fries), and hotcakes.

Is Washington or Pittsburgh Better for Nightlife?

Washington
Pittsburgh

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

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.

Pittsburgh has plenty to do after the sun goes down. There's an active music and dance scene in town. For the best bars and clubs, head to the Strip and South Side and for live entertainment and casinos check out the North Shore.


Is Washington or Pittsburgh Better for Music?

Washington
Pittsburgh

Washington is a nice place to visit for its music scene. However, Pittsburgh is not a live music destination.

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

Pittsburgh is not a live music destination.

Is Washington or Pittsburgh Better for Hiking?

Washington
Pittsburgh

Washington is adequate for hiking. However, Pittsburgh 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.

Pittsburgh is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Washington or Pittsburgh?

Washington
Pittsburgh

Washington is great for its shopping areas. Also, Pittsburgh is not as popular, but is still a nice city 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.

Pittsburgh is a great destination for shopping. You'll find local fashion boutiques and shopping centers in the city's downtown. Other great shopping neighborhoods include Shadyside, Station Square, and Fifth Avenue Place.


Is Washington or Pittsburgh Better for Christmas?

Washington
Pittsburgh

Washington is a must-visit destination for its Christmas holiday experiences. However, Pittsburgh does not offer Christmas activities.

With so many activities, Washington is a top place to visit during Christmas. With it's beautiful lights and holiday shows, Christmas is beautiful in the capital of the United States.

Pittsburgh does not offer Christmas activities.

Is Washington or Pittsburgh Better for Families?

Washington
Pittsburgh

Washington is great for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Pittsburgh is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its family-friendly activities.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Washington. 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.

Pittsburgh is a family-friendly place to visit. There's a surprising number of kid-friendly activities packed into this city. Check out the National Aviary or visit the popular Pittsburgh Zoo and Aquarium. There are also kid-focused museums and science centers as well as parks and playgrounds. Also make sure you take the cable car up Duquesne Incline or enjoy a boat ride on one of the rivers as well.

Is Washington or Pittsburgh Better for Couples?

Washington
Pittsburgh

Washington is great for couples. However, Pittsburgh is not a good destination for romance.

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.

Pittsburgh is not the best destination for a couple to visit. There are a few good date night activities like taking river cruises, enjoying dinner and show, or going to a Pirate's game.


Is Washington or Pittsburgh Better for Students?

Washington
Pittsburgh

Washington is a must-visit destination for its student-friendly activities. However, Pittsburgh is not popular with 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.

Pittsburgh is not popular with students.

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

Washington
Pittsburgh

Washington is a must-visit destination for times when you don't have a car. Also, Pittsburgh is not as popular, but is still a nice city 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.

Pittsburgh has a few public transit options. There are bus and lightrail options through the city's downtown. There's also the unique incline, which is an experience worth doing.

Is Washington or Pittsburgh a more walkable city?

Washington
Pittsburgh

Washington is a must-visit destination for its ease of walking around. Also, Pittsburgh is not as popular, but is still a nice city 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.

Pittsburgh is somewhat walkable. Some of the attractions are spread out, but if you're willing to do a bit of walking, it's possible to get around on foot.


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

Should I spend more time in Pittsburgh or Washington?

How long in Washington or Pittsburgh?

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

Families should spend more time in Washington than Pittsburgh. 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 Pittsburgh. 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 Pittsburgh 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.


  • How many days in Washington or Pittsburgh? Ideal Length of Stay
    Washington 3-7 
    Pittsburgh 2-3

One day in Washington or Pittsburgh?

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 museums and nightlife around the under-rated city of Pittsburgh, there's plenty to do. 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.

A weekend in Washington or Pittsburgh?

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 Pittsburgh, there's plenty to do. It offers something for everyone. Many people spend a weekend here. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this city.

Five days in Washington or Pittsburgh?

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.

Pittsburgh, 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 Pittsburgh?

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.

Pittsburgh 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 Bicycle Tours in United States of America, Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in United States of America, The Best Coach Bus Tours in United States of America, and The Best Adventure Tours to United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Pittsburgh or Washington?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Washington is $198, while the average daily cost in Pittsburgh is $181. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Washington and Pittsburgh in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Washington $113
    Pittsburgh $106
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Washington $226
    Pittsburgh $212
Compare Hotels in Washington and Pittsburgh

Looking for a hotel in Washington or Pittsburgh? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Washington


Hotels in Pittsburgh


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Washington Hotel Prices and Pittsburgh Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Washington $47
    Pittsburgh $22
Typical Local Transportation Prices in Washington

Some typical examples of transportation costs in Washington are as follows:


  • Metro Day Pass
    $9.00

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Washington

Also for Washington, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Washington, DC: Airport Transfer to/from DCA or IAD: $350
  • Private Transfer from Washington DC to DCA Airport or vice versa : $280
  • Private Transfer To or Form Lorton and Dulles International Airport: $228
  • Private Departure Transfer: Washington DC (any accommodation) to Dulles Airport: $221
  • Departure Private Transfer: Washington to Dulles Airport IAD in Luxury Car: $213
  • Private transfer Service to or from Washington, DC and IAD: $208
  • Private Transfer to or from Springfield VA and Dulles Airport: $208
  • Private Transfer to or from Herndon and Ronald Reagan National Airport: $205
  • Washington to NY Kennedy Airport(JFK)- Departure Private Transfer: $201
  • Washington City to LaGuardia Airport Departure Private Transfer: $201
  • Departure Private Transfer: Washington to Baltimore Airport BWI in Luxury Van: $190
  • Departure Private Transfer: Washington to Baltimore Airport BWI in Luxury SUV: $190

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Pittsburgh

Also for Pittsburgh, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Pittsburgh Airport (PIT) to Pittsburgh City - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $97
  • Pittsburgh City to Pittsburgh Airport (PIT) - Departure Private Transfer: $48
  • Pittsburgh Airport (PIT) to Pittsburgh hotel/address - Arrival Private Transfer: $48

Is it cheaper to fly into Washington or Pittsburgh?

Prices for flights to both Pittsburgh and Washington change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    Washington $38
    Pittsburgh $54
Typical Food Prices in Washington

Here are some examples of typical meal expenses from previous travelers to Washington:


  • Water
    $2.00
  • Snacks on Monuments Tour
    $6.15

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Washington

For Washington, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Washington DC: Buffet Lunch or Dinner Cruise on the Spirit: $60
  • Washington DC Holiday Donut Adventure & Walking Food Tour: $65
  • Small-Group Capitol Hill Walking Food Tour: $75
  • Washington D.C.: Georgetown Guided Secret Food Tour: $98
  • Washington, DC: African American History Tour with Dinner: $108
  • Washington DC Signature Dinner Cruise: $121
  • Washington,DC: Union Market Private Food Tour: $125
  • Washington D.C.: Taste of Georgetown Walking Food Tour: $129
  • Washington DC:Gourmet Brunch or Dinner Cruise on the Odyssey: $140
  • Washington DC: Christmas Eve Gourmet Brunch or Dinner Cruise: $140
  • Washington DC: Personalized & Private Food Tour with a Local: $152
  • Washington DC Father's Day Buffet Dinner Cruise: $161

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Pittsburgh

For Pittsburgh, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Pittsburgh's Strip District Food Tour: $70
  • Pittsburgh's Strip District Food Tour: $70

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Washington $24
    Pittsburgh $38

Tours and Activities in Washington

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Washington.

  • "Secrets & Scandals of Capitol Hill" Guided Evening Walking Tour: $20
  • 1.5 Hour Arlington Cemetery Guided Walking Tour with Tomb of the Unknown Soldier: $40
  • 2 For 1! DC Highlights & Arlington Cemetery Tour Bundle: $84
  • 2 Hour Guided Bike Tour of Capitol Hill: $55
  • 2-Hour African American Heritage Tour in Washington DC: $25
  • 2-Hour National Mall Walking Tour from Washington DC: $25
  • A Self-Guided Tour of Washington DC's Monumental Marvels: $25
  • African American History Private Tour w/ Museum Entry: $350
  • African American History Tour with Museum Admission: $89
  • America’s Main Street and White House – Full-Day Tour: $741
  • Arlington Cemetery & Changing of the Guard Exclusive Guided Tour : $101
  • Arlington Cemetery Guided Afternoon Walking Tour: $50

Tours and Activities in Pittsburgh

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Pittsburgh.

  • Best of the Burgh Walking Tour: $30
  • Bike the Burgh Tour: $50
  • Black & Ghost Tour: $30
  • Discover Oakland Tour: $30
  • Eastbound Pennsylvania Turnpike: A Self-Guided Driving Tour: $6.22
  • Entrance Ticket to AT BLAQK House Collections: $7.00
  • Essential Pittsburgh Experience - The One Tour to Take: $75
  • HOP ON-HOP OFF TOUR PASS- All Day Sightseeing Tour Pass: $40
  • New! Bikes & Brews Tour: $75
  • Pittsburg 101 Tour: $30
  • Pittsburgh Penguins Ice Hockey Game Ticket at PPG Paints Arena: $51
  • Pittsburgh Pirates Baseball Game Ticket at PNC Park: $49

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Washington $19
    Pittsburgh $33

Sample the Local Flavors in Washington

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Washington:

  • Epic Washington DC Bar Crawl: By Let’s Roam: $12
  • Washington DC: Ghosts Boos and Booze Haunted Pub Crawl: $35
  • Washington, D.C.: History Tour Pub Crawl: $59
  • DC Signature Guided Brewery Tour: $105
  • DC: Guided Craft Brewery Tours with a Snack: $105
  • Private Washington DC Virginia Winery Wine Tasting Tour -Spirited: $255

Sample the Local Flavors in Pittsburgh

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Pittsburgh:

  • Pittsburgh Bar Hunt: Party Through Pittsburgh Bar Crawl: $13
  • Wigle Whiskey Rebellion Distillery Tour: $22
  • New! Bites & Brews: Pittsburgh Brewery Walk: $40
  • Bike and Brewery Tour: $69
  • Pittsburgh Signature Guided Brewery Tour: $105


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


Which is Bigger, Washington or Pittsburgh?

Washington has a larger population, and is about 73% larger than the population of Pittsburgh. When comparing the sizes of Washington and Pittsburgh, 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.