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

Should you visit Washington or Providence?

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 Providence 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.

Providence

Providence is a friendly, fascinating, and active city. Other reasons to visit include museums, nightlife, and food.

Washington and Providence: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Washington or Providence?

You'll generally find more things to do in Washington than Providence. Washington is bigger than Providence, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Washington is more touristy than Providence 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. Providence is well known for its outdoor parks, historic atmosphere, and college town vibe.

How is Washington different from Providence?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Washington is an unbeatable place for its historical sights. Also, Providence 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.

Providence is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. There are several historical museums around town as well as art museums, zoos, a planetarium and natural history museum, and even a children's museum.

Is Washington or Providence Better for Theater?

Washington is a great city for its shows and theatre. However, Providence 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.

Providence is not a theatre destination.

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

Washington is an unbeatable place for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Providence is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its local cuisine and restaurants.

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.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Providence makes for a great culinary experience. The food scene around town has grown and diversified in recent years. You'll find a mix of international and local options and for such a small city, it really has a lot to offer.

Is Washington or Providence Better for Nightlife?

Washington is a great city for its evening party scene. Also, Providence is not as popular, but is still a nice city for nightlife.

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 Providence. Comedy clubs, bars, and clubs keep the energy high during the evening hours. It's not hard to find something to do, particularly on weekend nights.

Is Washington or Providence Better for Music?

Washington is a good destination for its music scene. However, Providence 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.

Providence is not a live music destination.

Is Washington or Providence Better for Hiking?

Washington is adequate for hiking. However, Providence 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.

Providence is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Washington or Providence?

Washington is a great city for its shopping areas. Also, Providence 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.

Providence is a great destination for shopping. Malls, shopping centers, and boutiques all offer a range of shopping experiences around town.

Is Washington or Providence Better for Christmas?

Washington is an unbeatable place for its Christmas holiday experiences. However, Providence 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.

Providence does not offer Christmas activities.

Is Washington or Providence Better for Families?

Washington is a great city for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Providence 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.

Providence is a family-friendly place to visit. There are opportunities for kids to interact with animals at the Roger Williams Park Zoo, as well as plenty of places for kids to run around like Rocky Point Park or Goddard Memorial State Park. There's also the Providence Children's Museum, go carting, and entertainment centers.

Is Washington or Providence Better for Couples?

Washington is a great city for couples. Also, Providence is not as popular, but is still a nice city 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.

Providence is a nice destination for couples. You can see a show at the Providence Performing Arts Center or visit some of the city's historic buildings and museums. There are also parks and coastal walks as well as many great restaurants.

Is Washington or Providence Better for Students?

Washington is an unbeatable place for its student-friendly activities. Also, Providence is not as popular, but is still a nice city for 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.

Providence is a very popular city for students and younger travelers. There's a college town vibe to this small city because it's home to Brown University, which is a member of the Ivy League.

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

Washington is an unbeatable place for times when you don't have a car. Also, Providence is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its public transit.

Visitors in Washington can get around quickly with the extensive public transit system. The metro system and the bus system are reliable and efficient ways to explore the city.

Providence has a few public transit options. There are RIPTA buses that travel around town.

Is Washington or Providence a more walkable city?

Washington is an unbeatable place for its ease of walking around. Also, Providence 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.

Providence is very walkable. It's a walkable city and it's relatively easy to explore on foot.

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

Should I spend more time in Providence or Washington?

How long in Washington or Providence?

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

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

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 friendly city of Providence, 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 Providence?

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 Providence, 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 Providence?

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.

Providence, 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 Providence?

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.

Providence 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 Providence, we can see that Providence 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 Providence Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Washington or Providence?

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

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 Providence in the Summer?

Both Providence and Washington are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. 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 Providence for the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In July, Washington is generally a little warmer than Providence. Daily temperatures in Washington average around 79°F (26°C), and Providence fluctuates around 73°F (23°C).

It's quite sunny in Providence. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Washington. Washington usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Providence during summer. Washington gets 278 hours of sunny skies, while Providence receives 293 hours of full sun in the summer.

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

Should I visit Washington or Providence in the Autumn?

Both Providence and Washington during the autumn are popular places to visit. 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. Furthermore, the autumn months attract visitors to Providence because of the shopping scene.

Washington is a little warmer than Providence in the autumn. The daily temperature in Washington averages around 60°F (15°C) in October, and Providence fluctuates around 53°F (12°C).

In Providence, it's very sunny this time of the year. In the autumn, Washington often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Providence. Washington gets 197 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Providence receives 211 hours of full sun.

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

Should I visit Washington or Providence in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Washington and Providence. The winter months attract visitors to Washington because of the museums, the Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine. Furthermore, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Providence this time of year.

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

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

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

Should I visit Washington or Providence in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Washington as well as Providence. The activities around the city and the natural beauty are the main draw to Washington this time of year.

In April, Washington is generally a little warmer than Providence. Daily temperatures in Washington average around 56°F (14°C), and Providence fluctuates around 48°F (9°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Providence. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Washington this time of the year. In the spring, Washington often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Providence. Washington gets 228 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Providence receives 225 hours of full sun.

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

Typical Weather for Providence and Washington