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

Should you visit Washington or Sacramento?

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 Sacramento 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 this spot 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.

Sacramento

Sacramento is a laid back, relaxed, and undiscovered city. Other reasons to visit include museums, nightlife, and food.

Washington and Sacramento: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Washington or Sacramento?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Washington than Sacramento. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Washington is more touristy than Sacramento 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. It is also well known for The Washington Monument and the White House. Sacramento is famous for its history and state capital.

How is Washington different from Sacramento?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Washington is very popular for its museums and history. Also, Sacramento is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its museums and landmarks.

The museums and tourist attractions in Washington are world-renowned. 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 Sacramento. As the state capital, you'll find a number of historical and informational museums around town. You should check out the State Capital, as well as the California State Railroad Museum, the Crocker Museum of Art, Sutter's Fort State Historic Park, and the California Automobile Museum.

Is Washington or Sacramento Better for Theater?

Washington is a very popular place for its theatre productions. However, Sacramento 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.

Sacramento is not a theatre destination.

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

Washington is very popular for its restaurants. Also, Sacramento 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.

There are many up and coming restaurants in the Sacramento area. Casual restaurants with laid back atmospheres are what's most common around town. You'll also find a variety of international cuisines that include Korean and Vietnamese.

Is Washington or Sacramento Better for Nightlife?

Washington is a very popular place for nightlife and partying. Also, Sacramento is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its evening party scene.

Washington has a large number of nightlife venues. 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.

Sacramento has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. There highest concentration of activities are found in Downtown Sacramento. You'll find bars, clubs and live music in the area. You can also head to midtown, which has performing arts and comedy shows.

Is Washington or Sacramento Better for Music?

Washington is a nice place to visit for its live music scene. However, Sacramento 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.

Sacramento is not a live music destination.

Is Washington or Sacramento Better for Hiking?

Washington is a decent place to visit for its hiking trails. However, Sacramento 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.

Sacramento is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Washington or Sacramento?

Washington is a very popular place for its shopping opportunities. Also, Sacramento is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its shopping areas.

Washington is well-known for its shopping. 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.

Many visitors go to Sacramento to go shopping. You'll find down-to-earth vendors who have reasonable prices and a great selection. Some of the most interesting shopping is found at the Old Sacramento Waterfront or along Folsom Boulevard.

Is Washington or Sacramento Better for Christmas?

Washington is very popular for its Christmas holiday experiences. However, Sacramento does not offer Christmas activities.

Washington offers plenty of sights and activities around Christmas. With it's beautiful lights and holiday shows, Christmas is beautiful in the capital of the United States.

Sacramento does not offer Christmas activities.

Is Washington or Sacramento Better for Families?

Washington is a very popular place for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Sacramento is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Washington is very family-friendly. 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.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Sacramento. With the large number of families that live in the area, you'll a variety of kid-friendly activities. Options include smaller amusement parks like Funderland Amusement Park, museums like the Sacramento Children's Museum, and indoor trampoline parks. There's also Fairytale Town, which is an imagination filled playground.

Is Washington or Sacramento Better for Couples?

Washington is a very popular place for its romantic activities. However, Sacramento is lacking in good options 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.

Sacramento is not always the best place to visit for a couple. Picnics, nice restaurants, and shows make for enjoyable date activities while you're in town.

Is Washington or Sacramento Better for Students?

Washington is very popular for its student-friendly activities. However, Sacramento 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.

Sacramento is not popular with students.

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

Washington is very popular for times when you don't have a car. However, Sacramento is lacking in good options for its public transit.

Washington has an effecient and thorough public transportation system which can take you anywhere in the city. The metro system and the bus system are reliable and efficient ways to explore the city.

Public transit is generally limited in Sacramento. There's both light rail and buses around town.

Is Washington or Sacramento a more walkable city?

Washington is very popular for its high level of walkability. However, Sacramento is lacking in good options for its ease of walking around.

It's very easy to get around on foot in Washington. 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.

Sacramento is generally not very walkable. You'll really want a car to get around town, but Midtown is one of the more walkable areas.

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

Should I spend more time in Sacramento or Washington?

How long in Washington or Sacramento?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Washington or Sacramento to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Washington than Sacramento because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Washington, and 1-2 days is enough time in Sacramento.

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

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 laid back city of Sacramento, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Sacramento, one day is sufficent for most.

A weekend in Washington or Sacramento?

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 Sacramento, 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 Sacramento?

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.

Sacramento, 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 Sacramento?

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.

Sacramento 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 we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Washington and Sacramento, we can see that Sacramento 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 Sacramento would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Sacramento 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 Sacramento Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Washington or Sacramento?

Washington has a larger population, and is about 18% larger than the population of Sacramento. When comparing the sizes of Washington and Sacramento, 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 Sacramento?

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 Sacramento in the Summer?

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

In the summer, Washington is around the same temperature as Sacramento. Typically, the summer temperatures in Washington in July average around 79°F (26°C), and Sacramento averages at about 76°F (24°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Sacramento this time of the year. In Washington, it's very sunny this time of the year. Washington usually receives less sunshine than Sacramento during summer. Washington gets 278 hours of sunny skies, while Sacramento receives 439 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Washington usually receives more rain than Sacramento. Washington gets 3.5 inches (88 mm) of rain, while Sacramento receives 0 inches (1 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Washington or Sacramento in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Washington as well as Sacramento. 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. Additionally, many visitors come to Sacramento in the autumn for the shopping scene.

In October, Washington is generally cooler than Sacramento. Daily temperatures in Washington average around 60°F (15°C), and Sacramento fluctuates around 64°F (18°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Sacramento. In the autumn, Washington often gets less sunshine than Sacramento. Washington gets 197 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Sacramento receives 300 hours of full sun.

Washington usually gets more rain in October than Sacramento. Washington gets 2.9 inches (73 mm) of rain, while Sacramento receives 1.1 inches (27 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Washington or Sacramento in the Winter?

Both Sacramento 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 Sacramento for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Washington can get quite cold in the winter. Washington is much colder than Sacramento in the winter. The daily temperature in Washington averages around 35°F (1°C) in January, and Sacramento fluctuates around 45°F (7°C).

Washington usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Sacramento during winter. Washington gets 139 hours of sunny skies, while Sacramento receives 149 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Washington usually receives less rain than Sacramento. Washington gets 2.7 inches (68 mm) of rain, while Sacramento receives 3.8 inches (97 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Washington or Sacramento in the Spring?

Both Sacramento 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.

In the spring, Washington is around the same temperature as Sacramento. Typically, the spring temperatures in Washington in April average around 56°F (14°C), and Sacramento averages at about 58°F (15°C).

In Sacramento, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Washington. In the spring, Washington often gets less sunshine than Sacramento. Washington gets 228 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Sacramento receives 328 hours of full sun.

Washington usually gets more rain in April than Sacramento. Washington gets 2.8 inches (72 mm) of rain, while Sacramento receives 1.3 inches (32 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Sacramento and Washington