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

Should you visit Washington or Saint Louis?

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 Saint Louis can help you decide which place is right for you.

Washington

Washington is a active, monument-filled, and international city. It's a large city with plenty of activites for visitors as well. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. This is a quaint and attractive place to visit, too. It's also known for nightlife, live music, and food.

Saint Louis

Saint Louis is a under rated, unexpected, and fascinating city. Other reasons to visit include museums, nightlife, and food.

Washington and Saint Louis: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Washington or Saint Louis?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Washington than Saint Louis, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Washington is more touristy than Saint Louis and is popular 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 home to The Washington Monument and the White House. Saint Louis is popular for its blues and live music scene, its authentic personality, and its position as the Gateway to the West.

How is Washington different from Saint Louis?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Spend time exploring the first-rate sights and museums in either Washington or Saint Louis.

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 Saint Louis are among the most recognizable in the world. There are a surprising number of museums around town. For art museums you should visit the Contemporary Art Museum, the Mildred Lane Kemper Art Museum, the Saint Louis Art Museum, and the International Photography Hall of Fame and Museum. For history, the Griot Museum of Black History, the Jefferson Barracks Telephone Museum, and the Lewis & Clark Museum and Boathouse are all interesting. There are also science, educational, and children's museums. And of course, there's the iconic Gateway Arch.

Is Washington or Saint Louis Better for Theater?

Washington is well known for theatre. However, Saint Louis 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.

Saint Louis is not a theatre destination.

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

Washington is an amazing city to visit for its restaurant scene. Also, Saint Louis is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

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.

Saint Louis has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. There are some local dishes that originated here. Toasted ravioli had its start in St. Louis. There's also a St. Louis style pizza. Diners, cafes, and sandwiches are all part of the food scene and be prepared for cheese, meaty, and satisfying.

Is Washington or Saint Louis Better for Nightlife?

Washington is well known for nightlife. Also, Saint Louis is still popular, but not quite as popular for nightlife and partying.

Washington is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. 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.

If you're looking for night time activities Saint Louis has a few options to choose from. Visitors often hang out in the downtown area, particularly around Washington Avenue, for the nightlife scene. Live music is popular, especially the blues, and there are many local venues worth checking out.

Is Washington or Saint Louis Better for Music?

Washington is a good destination for live music. However, Saint Louis 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.

Saint Louis is not a live music destination.

Is Washington or Saint Louis Better for Hiking?

Washington is a city with a few options for its hiking experiences. However, Saint Louis is not a hiking destination.

Washington has hiking trails if you want to get outside. 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.

Saint Louis is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Washington or Saint Louis?

If you're looking to go shopping, Washington and Saint Louis both offer plenty of high quality 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.

Saint Louis is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. There are vintage stores, boutiques, and suburban strip malls around town. There are also farmer's markets and art galleries.

Is Washington or Saint Louis Better for Christmas?

Washington is an amazing city to visit for its Christmas activities. However, Saint Louis does not offer Christmas activities.

During Christmas, Washington is not to be missed. With it's beautiful lights and holiday shows, Christmas is beautiful in the capital of the United States.

Saint Louis does not offer Christmas activities.

Is Washington or Saint Louis Better for Families?

You'll find high quality kid-friendly activities in either Washington or Saint Louis.

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.

Saint Louis is a very kid-friendly city. There's a surprising number of activities for kids around town. There's the St. Louis Zoo and the City Museum with many hands-on exhibits for kids. There's also the Crown Ridge Tiger Sanctuary and several farms with animals and nature. Forest Park is an impressive urban park as well.

Is Washington or Saint Louis Better for Couples?

Washington is well known for romance. Also, Saint Louis is still popular, but not quite as popular for its romantic activities.

Couples visit Washington frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. 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.

Saint Louis makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Fine dining restaurants and eclectic activities make this city an often overlooked couples destination.

Is Washington or Saint Louis Better for Students?

Washington is an amazing city to visit for students. However, Saint Louis is not popular with 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.

Saint Louis is not popular with students.

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

Washington is an amazing city to visit for its public transit. Also, Saint Louis is still popular, but not quite as popular for times when you don't have a car.

Public transit in Washington is top-notch. The metro system and the bus system are reliable and efficient ways to explore the city.

The public transit in Saint Louis can get you around easily. There's a light rail system as well as buses that travel around town.

Is Washington or Saint Louis a more walkable city?

Washington is an amazing city to visit for its walkability. Also, Saint Louis is still popular, but not quite as popular for its high level of walkability.

Getting around Washington on foot is easy. 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.

Saint Louis is a somewhat walkable place. Parts of the city are walkable, like the downtown area and the sections around the Gateway Arch.

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

Should I spend more time in Saint Louis or Washington?

How long in Washington or Saint Louis?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Washington and Saint Louis. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Washington than in Saint Louis. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Washington, and 1-3 days is enough time in Saint Louis.

Families should spend more time in Washington than Saint Louis. 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 Saint Louis. 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 Saint Louis 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 Saint Louis?

Washington is a international city where you can fill many days. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

With museums and nightlife around the fascinating city of Saint Louis, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. One of the main draws to the area is the museums. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Saint Louis, one day is sufficent for most.

A weekend in Washington or Saint Louis?

Washington is a monument-filled big city where you can fill many days. This city offers something for everyone. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

With nightlife and food around the destination of Saint Louis, 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 Saint Louis?

Washington is a international city where you can fill many days. Many people spend five days here.If you enjoy all that's offered here, then five days is just the right amount of time to spend here. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

Saint Louis, 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 Saint Louis?

Washington is a big city destination where you can fill many days. Anyone can find something fun to do here. This is a popular place to visit for one week. In one week, you should have a good grasp of this city.

Saint Louis 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 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 Saint Louis, 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 Saint Louis Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Washington or Saint Louis?

Washington has a larger population, and is about 72% larger than the population of Saint Louis. When comparing the sizes of Washington and Saint Louis, 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 Saint Louis?

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 Saint Louis in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Washington as well as Saint Louis. Many visitors come to Washington in the summer for the hiking, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences. Additionally, most visitors come to Saint Louis for the family-friendly experiences during these months.

Washington is around the same temperature as Saint Louis in the summer. The daily temperature in Washington averages around 79°F (26°C) in July, and Saint Louis fluctuates around 81°F (27°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Saint Louis. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Washington this time of the year. In the summer, Washington often gets less sunshine than Saint Louis. Washington gets 278 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Saint Louis receives 309 hours of full sun.

Washington usually gets less rain in July than Saint Louis. Washington gets 3.5 inches (88 mm) of rain, while Saint Louis receives 3.8 inches (96 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Washington or Saint Louis in the Autumn?

Both Saint Louis and Washington are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. 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. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Saint Louis because of the shopping scene.

In the autumn, Washington is around the same temperature as Saint Louis. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Washington in October average around 60°F (15°C), and Saint Louis averages at about 60°F (16°C).

It's quite sunny in Saint Louis. Washington usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Saint Louis during autumn. Washington gets 197 hours of sunny skies, while Saint Louis receives 203 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Washington usually receives around the same amount of rain as Saint Louis. Washington gets 2.9 inches (73 mm) of rain, while Saint Louis receives 2.7 inches (68 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Washington or Saint Louis in the Winter?

Both Saint Louis and Washington during the winter are popular places to visit. The winter months attract visitors to Washington because of the museums, the Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine. Also, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Saint Louis this time of year.

It's quite cold in Saint Louis in the winter. The weather in Washington can be very cold. In January, Washington is generally much warmer than Saint Louis. Daily temperatures in Washington average around 35°F (1°C), and Saint Louis fluctuates around 31°F (-1°C).

In the winter, Washington often gets less sunshine than Saint Louis. Washington gets 139 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Saint Louis receives 160 hours of full sun.

Washington usually gets more rain in January than Saint Louis. Washington gets 2.7 inches (68 mm) of rain, while Saint Louis receives 2 inches (52 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Washington or Saint Louis in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Washington and Saint Louis. The activities around the city and the natural beauty are the main draw to Washington this time of year.

Washington is around the same temperature as Saint Louis in the spring. The daily temperature in Washington averages around 56°F (14°C) in April, and Saint Louis fluctuates around 58°F (15°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Saint Louis 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 Saint Louis during spring. Washington gets 228 hours of sunny skies, while Saint Louis receives 229 hours of full sun in the spring.

Saint Louis receives a lot of rain in the spring. In April, Washington usually receives less rain than Saint Louis. Washington gets 2.8 inches (72 mm) of rain, while Saint Louis receives 4.4 inches (111 mm) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Saint Louis and Washington