A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Williamsburg vs. Newport for Old Town, Families, Couples, and Attractions

Should you visit Williamsburg or Newport?

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

Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for Williamsburg and Newport. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.

Williamsburg

Williamsburg is a charming, quaint, and well-preserved town. It offers plenty of beauty for visitors. It's also popular because of the museums, food, and shopping.

Newport

Newport is a historical, charming, and coastal town. Don't miss this spot, as it's a charming small town with plenty of activities. It offers plenty of beauty for visitors. Other popular activities here include food, beaches, and shopping.

Williamsburg and Newport: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Williamsburg or Newport?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Newport. Although Williamsburg and Newport are popular destinations, Newport has more sights and attractions for tourists. Newport is very popular for its nightlife, beaches, and small town charm, while Williamsburg attracts visitors for its historical sights. Williamsburg is famous for its historic and colonial charm, its award winning amusement parks, and its historical reenactments. Newport is famous for its sailing regattas, its mansions along Bellevue Avenue, and its maritime history. It is also well known for Thames Street.

How is Williamsburg different from Newport?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Williamsburg or Newport?

For an educational experience, head to a museum or a notable sight in either Williamsburg or Newport.

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around Williamsburg. Colonial Williamsburg is like a living museum with reenactments and historic buildings that date back to the colonial days. In addition to the historic area, there are folk art museums and other historic sights in the area.

Newport offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. The historic mansions and local museums educate visitors on the town's maritime past and colonial roots. Some of the more popular places to visit include The Breakers, The Elms Mansion, The Marble House, and Chateau-sur-mer Mansion.

Is the Food Better in Williamsburg or Newport? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Foodies will find both Williamsburg and Newport both to be high quality destinations.

Dining out in Williamsburg is an experience not to be missed. Head to Historic Williamsburg if you want to try some colonial classics. There are historic taverns that maintain their old world charm and serve dishes such as peanut soup and stewed beef. Around town you'll also find casual restaurants with pizza, macaroni and cheese, and burgers.

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in Newport. Find a waterfront restaurant and enjoy fresh seafood and a charming atmosphere. Many restaurants are influenced by the town's Portuguese and Irish roots. You'll find classic pubs as well as brunch cafes and traditional taverns.

Is Williamsburg or Newport Better for Nightlife?

Newport is a good destination for its evening party scene. However, Williamsburg is a town with minimal options for nightlife.

Newport has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. There's a lively atmosphere in the evening with many pubs, taverns, and bars that keep the energy high.

Williamsburg doesn't have the most active nightlife scene. Despite its student population, there isn't much of a nightlife scene in town. There are restaurants where you can enjoy fine wine or cocktails, but nightclubs and bars are limited.

Is Williamsburg or Newport Better for Beaches?

Newport is a great destination for the beach. However, Williamsburg is not a beach destination.

Many people visit Newport for it's beautiful beaches. Tucked in along the rocky coastline are many beautiful sandy beaches. You'll find popular and active beaches where you can lounge in a chair and people watch, as well as more secluded spots where you can enjoy a more peaceful setting. The largest beach is Easton's Beach (also known as First Beach). Surfers and boaters enjoy Sachuest Beach (or Second Beach), and a less popular, but very rewarding beach is also King Park Beach.

Williamsburg is not a beach destination.

Is Williamsburg or Newport Better for its Old Town?

Williamsburg is terrific for its historic old town charm. Also, Newport is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its historic old town.

Williamsburg has a unique history which comes to life in its historic area. Colonial Williamsburg is an impressively maintained area with museums, shops, and taverns. There are live reenactments of historic events as well as blacksmiths, wig shops, and carriage rides. You can wander around without a ticket, but for access to many parts of the historic area you'll need to purchase a pass.

Many visitors go to Newport to see the historical old town. The Historic District is filled with colonial buildings and impressive mansions. There are cobblestone streets and a charming loop through the town's Old Quarter.

Is the Shopping Better in Williamsburg or Newport?

Shopping is a popular activity in both Newport and Williamsburg.

Browsing through shops is a popular activity in Williamsburg. Charming shops both in the historic area and just outside sell unique items that reflect the city's past. There are souvenirs, food items, cookbooks, and home decor to choose from.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Newport. Walk along the charming cobblestone streets and pop in the many local boutiques and shops.

Is Williamsburg or Newport Better for Families?

Williamsburg is terrific for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Newport is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

Williamsburg is one of the most popular family destinations. Older kids will appreciate the history in the area. For kids of all ages there are a number of amusement parks and water parks such as Great Wolf Lodge, Busch Gardens, and the award winning Water Country USA.

Newport is a very family-friendly place to visit. For an educational and interactive experience, head to Save The Bay Exploration Center & Aquarium. The Norman Bird Sanctuary also has a lot of land and places to explore. Kids will enjoy a visit to the beach or running around Breton Point State Park as well. On a rainy day, Ryans Family Amusements is the perfect way to pass some time.

Is Williamsburg or Newport Better for Couples?

Newport is a world-class destination for couples. Also, Williamsburg is still popular, but not quite as popular for romance.

Newport is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. It's a coastal town with a lot of charm that makes for a perfect romantic escape. Enjoy dining and shopping along Thames Street or take a walk along the coast. There are many local restaurants and evening activities for couples as well.

Williamsburg is a great town if you're traveling as a couple. Historic Williamsburg is filled with inns and charming restaurants that make this a beautiful destination for couples. There are quaint restaurants that serve colonial food and interesting southern shops with unique trinkets. You can also wander around the campus of William and Mary College.

Is Williamsburg or Newport Better for Students?

Williamsburg is terrific for its student-friendly activities. However, Newport is not popular with students.

Students come from all over the world to visit Williamsburg. The College of William and Mary has a beautiful campus and students enjoy the charming atmosphere with colonial architecture around town. There are also good restaurants and a great collegiate vibe.

Newport is not popular with students.

Is Williamsburg or Newport Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Newport is a good destination for its public transit. However, Williamsburg is a town with minimal options for times when you don't have a car.

You'll find some public transit in Newport, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There are buses operated by RIPTA. You can visit most of the attractions in the downtown area by catching a ride on one of the classic green and gold hybrid trolley buses.

Public transit is mostly limited in Williamsburg. There are buses around town, and they offer access to Historic Williamsburg, but for most places you'll need to have your own car.

Is Williamsburg or Newport a more walkable city?

Newport is a great destination for its ease of walking around. However, Williamsburg is a town with minimal options for its walkability.

Newport is a very walkable destination. The town's downtown are compact and fun to explore on foot. There is a nice concentration of shops, restaurants, hotels and sights.

Williamsburg is generally not a very walkable town. Historic Williamsburg and the neighborhoods around the College of William and Mary are all walkable, but if you plan to visit the amusement parks then you'll absolutely need a car.

For even more information, also check out Is Williamsburg Worth Visiting? and Is Newport Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Newport or Williamsburg?

How long in Williamsburg or Newport?

In either Williamsburg or Newport, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Newport than Williamsburg because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Williamsburg, and 2-5 days is enough time in Newport.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Newport than Williamsburg 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 Newport.

One day in Williamsburg or Newport?

In Williamsburg, you'll find museums and food. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. This town offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

In Newport, many people enjoy the food and shopping that this historical town offers. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

A weekend in Williamsburg or Newport?

In Williamsburg, you'll find food and shopping. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Visiting the old town is also a must. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Williamsburg has to offer.

Newport is a fun place to experience. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. So, a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

Five days in Williamsburg or Newport?

Williamsburg is a great place to explore. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

In Newport, many people enjoy the museums and nightlife that this historical destination offers. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Plenty of people spend five days in the area when traveling. So, five days is just the right amount of time to spend here.

A week in Williamsburg or Newport?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Williamsburg. Many people enjoy the museums and food when visiting Williamsburg. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

Newport is a popular place to visit. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Photography Tours in United States of America, The Best Camping Tours in United States of America, The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in United States of America, and The Best Polar Tours & Cruises in United States of America.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Williamsburg and Newport, we can see that Newport is more expensive. And not only is Williamsburg much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Williamsburg would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Williamsburg 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 Newport would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Newport than you might in Williamsburg.

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

Which is Bigger, Williamsburg or Newport?

Newport has a larger population, and is about 2 times larger than the population of Williamsburg. When comparing the sizes of Williamsburg and Newport, 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 Williamsburg or Newport?

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 Williamsburg or Newport in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Williamsburg as well as Newport. Many travelers come to Williamsburg for the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Newport in the summer for the beaches, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences.

Williamsburg is a little warmer than Newport in the summer. The daily temperature in Williamsburg averages around 78°F (26°C) in July, and Newport fluctuates around 73°F (23°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Newport. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Williamsburg this time of the year. In the summer, Williamsburg often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Newport. Williamsburg gets 279 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Newport receives 293 hours of full sun.

Williamsburg receives a lot of rain in the summer. Williamsburg usually gets more rain in July than Newport. Williamsburg gets 4.7 inches (120 mm) of rain, while Newport receives 2.8 inches (72 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Williamsburg or Newport in the Autumn?

Both Newport and Williamsburg are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Williamsburg in the autumn for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area. Also, most visitors come to Newport for the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

In the autumn, Williamsburg is a little warmer than Newport. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Williamsburg in October average around 61°F (16°C), and Newport averages at about 53°F (12°C).

It's quite sunny in Newport. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Williamsburg. Williamsburg usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Newport during autumn. Williamsburg gets 211 hours of sunny skies, while Newport receives 211 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Williamsburg usually receives less rain than Newport. Williamsburg gets 2.8 inches (71 mm) of rain, while Newport receives 3.3 inches (83 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Williamsburg or Newport in the Winter?

Both Newport and Williamsburg during the winter are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Williamsburg for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Furthermore, the winter months attract visitors to Newport because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

The weather in Newport can be very cold. Williamsburg can be very cold during winter. In January, Williamsburg is generally much warmer than Newport. Daily temperatures in Williamsburg average around 38°F (4°C), and Newport fluctuates around 28°F (-2°C).

In the winter, Williamsburg often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Newport. Williamsburg gets 168 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Newport receives 170 hours of full sun.

Williamsburg usually gets around the same amount of rain in January as Newport. Williamsburg gets 3.6 inches (93 mm) of rain, while Newport receives 3.5 inches (89 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Williamsburg or Newport in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Williamsburg and Newport. The spring months attract visitors to Williamsburg because of the natural beauty. Furthermore, the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty are the main draw to Newport this time of year.

Williamsburg is much warmer than Newport in the spring. The daily temperature in Williamsburg averages around 57°F (14°C) in April, and Newport fluctuates around 48°F (9°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Newport this time of the year. In Williamsburg, it's very sunny this time of the year. Williamsburg usually receives more sunshine than Newport during spring. Williamsburg gets 253 hours of sunny skies, while Newport receives 225 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Williamsburg usually receives less rain than Newport. Williamsburg gets 3 inches (76 mm) of rain, while Newport receives 3.7 inches (94 mm) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Newport and Williamsburg