A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America West Palm Beach vs. Boston for Beaches, Families, Food, and Nightlife

Should you visit West Palm Beach or Boston?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

Should I visit West Palm Beach or Boston? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

West Palm Beach

West Palm Beach is a fun-filled, diverse, and vibrant beach area. It's also known for nightlife, scuba diving and snorkeling, and beaches.

Boston

Boston is a classic, proud, and loyal city. It's a large city with plenty of activites for visitors as well. It's a gorgeous place to visit. This is a quaint and attractive place to visit, too. Other reasons to visit include shopping, museums, and theater.

West Palm Beach and Boston: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in West Palm Beach or Boston?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Boston than West Palm Beach, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Boston is more popular for its museums, theatre productions, food, music, historical sights, shopping, christmas markets, big city activities, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere, while West Palm Beach is known for its resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, and beaches. West Palm Beach is popular for its nice resorts, a lively boardwalk, great seafood, and fun watersports. Boston is popular for its enthusiastic sports fans, influential history, beautiful parks, and world-class universities. It is also home to The Freedom Trail.

How is West Palm Beach different from Boston?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Boston and West Palm Beach. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in West Palm Beach or Boston?

Boston is very popular for its historical sights. However, West Palm Beach does not have museums and landmarks.

Travelers visit Boston from around the world to see its many world-famous attractions. The city itself feels like a living museum. It is famous for Faneuil Hall, the Museum of Fine Arts, the Isabelle Stewart Gardner Museum, the USS Constitution, as well as the many sites along the Freedom Trail. There are also many museums on the campuses of the world renowned universities in the city.

West Palm Beach does not have museums and landmarks.

Is West Palm Beach or Boston Better for Theater?

Boston is a great city for theatre. However, West Palm Beach is not a theatre destination.

While in town, many visitors enjoy seeing a show in Boston. The city has many historic, beautifully restored theaters where you can enjoy a show. Head to the theater district for some of the most famous venues.

West Palm Beach is not a theatre destination.

Is the Food Better in West Palm Beach or Boston? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Boston is a great city for its local flavors and cuisine. However, West Palm Beach is not known for its local cuisine and restaurants.

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in Boston. There are many local dishes that utilize fresh caught seafood and comfort food flavors. The cuisine also takes advantage of the city's Italian and Irish populations. Famous local foods include New England Clam Chowder, lobster rolls, and baked beans. You'll find hearty sandwiches and filling meals that warm your soul.

You'll find the standard options when it comes to food in West Palm Beach. Oceanfront restaurants usually have a great view and offer local and fresh seafood. There are also many local restaurants concentrated around Clematis Street and CityPlace districts.

Is West Palm Beach or Boston Better for Nightlife?

If the nightlife is your priority, you'll find superb options in both West Palm Beach and Boston.

The nightlife in West Palm Beach has something for everybody. With rooftop bars and clubs, oceanfront venues, and plenty of nightlife options downtown, this city rivals most places when it comes to nightlife. The nightlife scene is particularly active during spring break, when university students head to town.

Boston offers plenty to do in the evening. The city is known for its breweries, craft beer, and vibrant university neighborhoods. It also hosts regular outdoor movies and world class sporting events. The nightlife scene is varied, with some areas catering to the student population and other areas focused on the professional or sport-loving crowds.

Is West Palm Beach or Boston Better for Music?

Boston is a popular place for live music. However, West Palm Beach is not a live music destination.

The music scene in Boston is active and vibrant. Popular music venues include Lizard Lounge, Blue Hills Bank Pavilion, and The Middle East.

West Palm Beach is not a live music destination.

Is West Palm Beach or Boston Better for Resorts?

West Palm Beach is an unbeatable place for its resorts. However, Boston is not a resort destination.

Vacationers flock to West Palm Beach for its luxury resorts. All of the major names are present including the Hilton, Marriott, and Four Seasons.

Boston is not a resort destination.

Is West Palm Beach or Boston Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

West Palm Beach is notable for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Boston is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

There are many scuba diving and snorkeling spots near West Palm Beach. Check out Phil Foster Park in Rivera Beach. It's a man-made reef that is surprisingly clear.

Boston is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is West Palm Beach or Boston Better for Beaches?

West Palm Beach is an unbeatable place for its beaches. However, Boston is a mediocre city for the beache.

West Palm Beach offers stunning beaches that attract visitors from around the world. From bustling beaches with a boardwalk to quieter, more relaxing beaches surrounded by parkland, there are are number of options in the area.

You can check out the beach in Boston. There are a few urban beaches in the greater Boston area that you can explore on a nice day.

Is West Palm Beach or Boston Better for its Old Town?

Boston is very popular for its historic old town. However, West Palm Beach does not have a historic old town.

Boston has a world-famous historical area. Boston is famous for its Freedom Trail, which takes visitors around the city's rich history. The oldest parts of the city are known as Boston Proper and include the neighborhoods of Beacon Hill, Historic Downtown, the North End, and the West End.

West Palm Beach does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in West Palm Beach or Boston?

Boston is a popular place for shopping. However, West Palm Beach is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Plenty of visitors enjoy shopping while in Boston. Head to Back Bay for some of the best high end shops. There are luxury brands and boutique venues that sell local art or crafts.

West Palm Beach is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is West Palm Beach or Boston Better for Christmas?

Boston is a great city for its Christmas holiday experiences. However, West Palm Beach does not offer Christmas activities.

Boston is a very popular destination during Christmas. Christmas comes to life in the city with its Christmas Trees, holiday shows, and festivals.

West Palm Beach does not offer Christmas activities.

Is West Palm Beach or Boston Better for Christmas Markets?

Boston is a great city for visiting Christmas markets. However, West Palm Beach does not offer Christmas markets.

Boston is a popular destination to visit Christmas markets. There are a number of European style Christmas markets that pop up during the holiday season around town.

West Palm Beach does not offer Christmas markets.

Is West Palm Beach or Boston Better for Families?

Boston is very popular for its kid-friendly activities. Also, West Palm Beach is not as popular, but is still a nice beach area for its family-friendly activities.

As it has a large number of activities for kids, Boston is a very family-friendly destination. It's filled with history, but there are also many activities for kids who need a break from all of the historical stuff. Popular activities for all ages include the Museum of Science, the New England Aquarium, and exploring the waterfront, gardens, and parks around town.

West Palm Beach is a very kid-friendly beach area. Animal lovers will appreciate the zoos and aquariums in the area. Check out McCarthy's Wildlife Sanctuary, Manatee Lagoon, the Palm Beach Zoo, and the South Florida Science Center and Aquarium.

Is West Palm Beach or Boston Better for Couples?

West Palm Beach is notable for romance. Also, Boston is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its romantic activities.

West Palm Beach is a very popular place to visit for couples. Couples will enjoy kayaking, dining out, or simply relaxing on the beach. It's fun to spend a day exploring the botanical gardens and an evening wandering around Clematis Street.

Boston makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Couples who enjoy history will enjoy exploring the city. Take a swan boat ride in the Public Garden and wander the unique route along the Freedom Trail. There are also many sporting and entertainment options around town.

Is West Palm Beach or Boston Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Boston is a popular place for backpackers and budget travelers. However, West Palm Beach is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Boston. Like most larger American cities, the city has a handful of hostels to choose from.

West Palm Beach is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

Is West Palm Beach or Boston Better for Students?

Boston is very popular for its student-friendly activities. However, West Palm Beach is not popular with students.

Many students frequent Boston. It is a city of students, with a number of world renowned universities located here including Harvard University, Boston College, and MIT. Many neighborhoods are filled with students and there are many student-centered activities around town including festivals and an active nightlife scene.

West Palm Beach is not popular with students.

Is West Palm Beach or Boston Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Boston is very popular for times when you don't have a car. Also, West Palm Beach is not as popular, but is still a nice beach area for its public transit.

Boston has an effecient and thorough public transportation system which can take you anywhere in the city. There's the T, which is the subway, as well as a trolley, bus, and water transportation system.

West Palm Beach has a few public transit options. There's a downtown trolley, a commuter trail line (connecting West Palm Beach, Miami, and Fort Lauderdale), and a bus system with about 30 lines.

Is West Palm Beach or Boston a more walkable city?

Boston is very popular for its walkability. Also, West Palm Beach is not as popular, but is still a nice beach area for its high level of walkability.

Boston is a very easy city to get around on foot. The many parks and compact neighborhoods are best explored on foot.

West Palm Beach is a somewhat walkable place. West Palm Beach has a surprisingly walkable area and it's possible to explore the downtown area on foot.

For even more information, also check out Is West Palm Beach Worth Visiting? and Is Boston Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Boston or West Palm Beach?

How long in West Palm Beach or Boston?

In either West Palm Beach or Boston, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in West Palm Beach than Boston because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for West Palm Beach, and 3-5 days is enough time in Boston.

Families should spend more time in Boston than West Palm Beach. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Boston, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Couples should spend more time in Boston than West Palm Beach. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Boston that are perfect for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Boston than West Palm Beach 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 Boston.

One day in West Palm Beach or Boston?

Many travelers enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and nightlife when visiting the destination of West Palm Beach. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

Boston is a big city with plenty to do. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. It's no surprise that museums is why people visit. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

A weekend in West Palm Beach or Boston?

West Palm Beach is a great place to explore. Don't miss the beaches, as that's what most people do. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Boston is a big city with plenty to do. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

Five days in West Palm Beach or Boston?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in West Palm Beach. Don't miss the beaches, as that's what most people do. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. Most people come for the beaches. With all of its activities, you can easily fill five days here. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Boston is a great place to explore. Visiting the old town is also a must. It's no surprise that museums is why people visit. This city offers something for everyone. It is common to spend five days here. Five days is often enough time to do most activities.

A week in West Palm Beach or Boston?

Many travelers enjoy the nightlife and scuba diving and snorkeling when visiting the diverse destination of West Palm Beach. This beach area offers a variety of activities to choose from. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. If you have one week, this is a great place to go. This would be the perfect place to spend one week, as it has just the right amount of activities.

Many people enjoy the live music and food when visiting Boston. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

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 West Palm Beach and Boston, we can see that West Palm Beach is more expensive. And not only is Boston much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Boston would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Boston 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 West Palm Beach would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in West Palm Beach than you might in Boston.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is West Palm Beach Expensive? and Is Boston Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, West Palm Beach or Boston?

Boston has a larger population, and is about 7 times larger than the population of West Palm Beach. When comparing the sizes of West Palm Beach and Boston, 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 West Palm Beach or Boston?

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 West Palm Beach or Boston in the Summer?

Both Boston and West Palm Beach during the summer are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to West Palm Beach for the beaches, snorkeling, and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Furthermore, the summer months attract visitors to Boston because of the beaches, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

West Palm Beach is a little warmer than Boston in the summer. The daily temperature in West Palm Beach averages around 82°F (28°C) in July, and Boston fluctuates around 73°F (23°C).

In Boston, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in West Palm Beach. In the summer, West Palm Beach often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Boston. West Palm Beach gets 316 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Boston receives 304 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in West Palm Beach. West Palm Beach usually gets more rain in July than Boston. West Palm Beach gets 6.5 inches (166 mm) of rain, while Boston receives 2.9 inches (74 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit West Palm Beach or Boston in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both West Palm Beach and Boston. Furthermore, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Boston this time of year.

In the autumn, West Palm Beach is much warmer than Boston. Typically, the autumn temperatures in West Palm Beach in October average around 78°F (25°C), and Boston averages at about 54°F (12°C).

In West Palm Beach, it's very sunny this time of the year. West Palm Beach usually receives more sunshine than Boston during autumn. West Palm Beach gets 275 hours of sunny skies, while Boston receives 194 hours of full sun in the autumn.

West Palm Beach gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In October, West Palm Beach usually receives more rain than Boston. West Palm Beach gets 8.7 inches (222 mm) of rain, while Boston receives 3.3 inches (84 mm) of rain each month for the autumn. June to November in West Palm Beach is the hurricane season.

Should I visit West Palm Beach or Boston in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to West Palm Beach as well as Boston. The cuisine are the main draw to West Palm Beach this time of year. Additionally, many travelers come to Boston for the museums, the Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Boston. In January, West Palm Beach is generally much warmer than Boston. Daily temperatures in West Palm Beach average around 65°F (19°C), and Boston fluctuates around 29°F (-2°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in West Palm Beach this time of the year. In the winter, West Palm Beach often gets more sunshine than Boston. West Palm Beach gets 243 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Boston receives 153 hours of full sun.

West Palm Beach usually gets less rain in January than Boston. West Palm Beach gets 2.6 inches (66 mm) of rain, while Boston receives 3.4 inches (87 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit West Palm Beach or Boston in the Spring?

Both Boston and West Palm Beach are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to West Palm Beach for the beaches. Also, many visitors come to Boston in the spring for the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty.

West Palm Beach is much warmer than Boston in the spring. The daily temperature in West Palm Beach averages around 74°F (23°C) in April, and Boston fluctuates around 48°F (9°C).

It's quite sunny in Boston. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in West Palm Beach. West Palm Beach usually receives more sunshine than Boston during spring. West Palm Beach gets 300 hours of sunny skies, while Boston receives 225 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, West Palm Beach usually receives around the same amount of rain as Boston. West Palm Beach gets 3.5 inches (89 mm) of rain, while Boston receives 3.5 inches (89 mm) of rain each month for the spring. The hurricane season in West Palm Beach is June to November.

Typical Weather for Boston and West Palm Beach