A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Wilmington vs. Atlantic City for Nightlife, Beaches, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Wilmington or Atlantic City?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Wilmington or Atlantic City, this travel comparison, which includes costs, can help. The overall cost of travel is usually a consideration when deciding where to go next, and the cost comparison down below can help you decide based on the average prices from other travelers along with your own travel budget.

Wilmington

Wilmington is a charming, historic, and welcoming city. It's also known for food, beaches, and shopping.

Atlantic City

Atlantic City is a colorful, glitzy, and flashy city. Other reasons to visit include shopping, nightlife, and food.

Wilmington and Atlantic City: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Wilmington or Atlantic City?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Wilmington. Although Wilmington and Atlantic City are both popular with visitors, Wilmington has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Wilmington is more popular for its museums, beaches, and historical sights, while Atlantic City is known for its nightlife and resorts. Atlantic City is more touristy than Wilmington and is popular for its casinos, gambling culture, nightlife scene, and wild personality Wilmington is popular for its laid back beaches, historical waterfront area, and university setting. It is also home to the Battleship North Carolina.

How is Wilmington different from Atlantic City?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Wilmington or Atlantic City?

Wilmington is a good destination for its museums and landmarks. However, Atlantic City is not particularly known for its historical sights.

Wilmington is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. There are art, history, and science museums around town. The Battleship North Carolina is a popular destination. Science enthusiasts will enjoy a visit to the Cape Fear Museum of History and Science or the North Carolina Aquarium at Fort Fisher. For art, head to the Cameron Art Museum or Art in Bloom Gallery.

While most people don't head to Atlantic City specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. While most people don't spend their time in museums, there is the Marine Mammal Stranding Center, the African American Heritage Museum, and the Noyes Museum Galleries.

Is the Food Better in Wilmington or Atlantic City? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Both Wilmington and Atlantic City offer a number of good restaurants to choose from.

There are plenty of up and coming restaurants around Wilmington. Head to the waterfront for local seafood restaurants that offer outdoor seating and fresh caught fish. There are also farm-to-table restaurants and local diners with casual food.

Visitors will find a budding food and restaurant scene in Atlantic City. There are budget buffets around town as well as seafood restaurants and even some fine dining. Salt water taffy is a local specialty that you should pick up while you're in the area.

Is Wilmington or Atlantic City Better for Nightlife?

Atlantic City is a must-visit destination for nightlife. Also, Wilmington is not as popular, but is still a nice city for nightlife and partying.

Atlantic City is a world class party destination. This is a city that is all about its nightlife scene. Many visitors come here just to party, and you'll find clubs with DJs or bands playing from sunset to sunrise. There are glitzy lounges and dive bars with everything in between. As a gambling town, there are casinos and all-night activities that keep the energy going round the clock.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Wilmington. Live music is popular around town. There are also bars, lounges and dance clubs. When the weather is warm, many places make use of the outdoor setting, which makes for a relaxed and fun evening.

Is Wilmington or Atlantic City Better for Resorts?

Atlantic City is great for its luxury resorts. However, Wilmington is not a resort destination.

Atlantic City is a popular resort destination that attracts visitors from everywhere. The beach and boardwalk are lined with casinos and resorts. There are many recognizable names such as Harrah's, Bally's, Caesars, Hard Rock, and the Tropicana.

Wilmington is not a resort destination.

Is Wilmington or Atlantic City Better for Beaches?

Wilmington is well known for its beaches. Also, Atlantic City is still popular, but not quite as popular for the beache.

Many people visit Wilmington for it's beautiful beaches. Nearby you'll find Wrightsville Beach, Kure Beach, and Carolina Beach. They have long stretches of sand and great waves. The water is usually warm enough for swimming between the months of April and October. During these peak months parking can be challenging, but during the quieter times, you shouldn't have trouble.

Atlantic City is a good option for a beach vacation. There's a Boardwalk that runs along the beach and is lined with piers and hotels. The Downtown Beach is the most accessible, and where most tourists hang out. If you're willing to travel a little further, there are some nice beaches nearby such as Margate Beach and Brigantine Beach.

Is Wilmington or Atlantic City Better for its Old Town?

Wilmington is a good destination for its historic old town. However, Atlantic City does not have a historic old town.

Many visitors go to Wilmington to see the historical old town. The Historic District is along the waterfront and has 18th and 19th century architecture. There are also great restaurants and interesting shops.

Atlantic City does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Wilmington or Atlantic City?

If you're looking to go shopping, Wilmington and Atlantic City both offer plenty of good spots.

Plenty of visitors enjoy shopping while in Wilmington. Head downtown for the most interesting local shops. You'll find boutiques and souvenir shops where you can pick up art, accessories, or antiques.

Atlantic City offers some nice shopping areas. You'll find many souvenir shops along the boardwalk. There's also a Tangier Outlet Mall in the area. Some of the hotels such as the Tropicana have their own shopping areas as well.

Is Wilmington or Atlantic City Better for Families?

Wilmington is well known for its family-friendly activities. However, Atlantic City is not particularly known for its kid-friendly activities.

Wilmington is a very family-friendly place to visit. Near town you'll find several beaches - Wrightsville Beach, Kure Beach, and Carolina Beach. They're all family-friendly and perfect for a day's activity. The city also has the North Carolina Aquarium at Fort Fisher, the Children's Museum of Wilmington, and the Wilmington Railroad Museum. For a rainy day there are also indoor play areas and entertainment centers.

For families, Atlantic City is not always the best place to visit. Most families avoid this area for more family-friendly beaches, but if you find yourself in the area, you can check out Ripley's Believe It or Not or go on a dolphin cruise. Also popular is Steel Pier, which has rides for all ages.

Is Wilmington or Atlantic City Better for Couples?

Wilmington is well known for romance. Also, Atlantic City is still popular, but not quite as popular for its romantic activities.

Couples visit Wilmington frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. The beaches are great for a relaxing day of swimming and sunbathing. In the evening head into town and enjoy one of the local seafood restaurants on the waterfront. You'll also find great shopping and historical sights in the area.

Atlantic City makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. It's not exactly known for its romance, but there are casinos, hotels, and a beaches that are fun to visit. You'll also find several spas and sunset cruises in the area.

Is Wilmington or Atlantic City Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Atlantic City is a nice place to visit for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Wilmington is not a good destination for backpackers.

It's common for backpackers to visit Atlantic City. There is a hostel in the area. You'll also find a younger crowd and plenty of partying.

Wilmington is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. While it's usually overlooked by backpackers, the university and great beaches make this a surprisingly fun destination.

Is Wilmington or Atlantic City Better for Students?

Wilmington is a good destination for students. However, Atlantic City is not popular with students.

Wilmington is popular with students. The University of North Carolina at Wilmington is a popular school that brings many students to town.

Atlantic City is not popular with students.

Is Wilmington or Atlantic City Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Atlantic City is a nice place to visit for times when you don't have a car. However, Wilmington is not a good destination for its public transit.

While Atlantic City offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. The Jitney are shuttle buses that runs from one end of the city to the other. They pass by most of the hotels and casinos along Pacific Avenue.

Public transit is generally limited in Wilmington. There are public buses around town, but for practical reasons, you'll want to have your own vehicle.

Is Wilmington or Atlantic City a more walkable city?

Atlantic City is great for its walkability. Also, Wilmington is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its high level of walkability.

Atlantic City is very walkable. Many of the hotels are walkable and located near the boardwalk.

Wilmington is a somewhat walkable place. The Historic District is best explored on foot. You can also get around Wrightsville Beach on foot, but traveling between these places requires a car.

For even more information, also check out Is Wilmington Worth Visiting? and Is Atlantic City Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Atlantic City or Wilmington?

How long in Wilmington or Atlantic City?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Wilmington and Atlantic City. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Wilmington than in Atlantic City. Usually, 2-5 days is a good amount of time for Wilmington, and 1-3 days is enough time in Atlantic City.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Atlantic City than Wilmington 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 Atlantic City.

One day in Wilmington or Atlantic City?

Many travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the charming destination of Wilmington. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. Your budget might influence how long you stay. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

With shopping and nightlife around the glitzy city of Atlantic City, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. One of the main draws to the area is the nightlife. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Atlantic City, one day is sufficent for most.

A weekend in Wilmington or Atlantic City?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Wilmington. Most people come for the beaches. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. A weekend is usually enough time to experience most activities.

With nightlife and food around the destination of Atlantic City, there's plenty to do. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. It offers something for everyone. Many people spend a weekend here. One of the main draws to the area is the nightlife. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this city.

Five days in Wilmington or Atlantic City?

Many travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the charming destination of Wilmington. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. If you have five days, this is a great place to go. Five days is usually enough time to experience most activities.

Atlantic City, a popular city, is full of activities for travelers. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. 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 Wilmington or Atlantic City?

You'll find food and shopping around the city of Wilmington. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Atlantic City is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. One of the main draws to the area is the nightlife. 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 Tours for Seniors to United States of America, The Best Contiki Tours to United States of America, The Best G Adventures Tours to United States of America, and The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Las Vegas.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Wilmington or Atlantic City?

Wilmington has a larger population, and is about 2 times larger than the population of Atlantic City. When comparing the sizes of Wilmington and Atlantic City, 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 Wilmington or Atlantic City?

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 Wilmington or Atlantic City in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Wilmington as well as Atlantic City. Many travelers come to Wilmington for the beaches and the family-friendly experiences. Additionally, many visitors come to Atlantic City in the summer for the beaches and the family-friendly experiences.

Wilmington is a little warmer than Atlantic City in the summer. The daily temperature in Wilmington averages around 81°F (27°C) in July, and Atlantic City fluctuates around 75°F (24°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Atlantic City. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Wilmington this time of the year. In the summer, Wilmington often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Atlantic City. Wilmington gets 283 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Atlantic City receives 273 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Atlantic City. Wilmington receives a lot of rain in the summer. Wilmington usually gets more rain in July than Atlantic City. Wilmington gets 8.1 inches (207 mm) of rain, while Atlantic City receives 4.4 inches (112 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Wilmington or Atlantic City in the Autumn?

Both Atlantic City and Wilmington are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Wilmington in the autumn for the shopping scene. Also, most visitors come to Atlantic City for the shopping scene during these months.

In the autumn, Wilmington is a little warmer than Atlantic City. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Wilmington in October average around 65°F (18°C), and Atlantic City averages at about 56°F (13°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Wilmington. Wilmington usually receives more sunshine than Atlantic City during autumn. Wilmington gets 227 hours of sunny skies, while Atlantic City receives 197 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Wilmington usually receives around the same amount of rain as Atlantic City. Wilmington gets 2.7 inches (68 mm) of rain, while Atlantic City receives 2.6 inches (67 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Wilmington or Atlantic City in the Winter?

Both Atlantic City and Wilmington during the winter are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Wilmington for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Atlantic City because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

The weather in Atlantic City can be very cold. In January, Wilmington is generally much warmer than Atlantic City. Daily temperatures in Wilmington average around 45°F (7°C), and Atlantic City fluctuates around 31°F (-0°C).

In the winter, Wilmington often gets more sunshine than Atlantic City. Wilmington gets 180 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Atlantic City receives 146 hours of full sun.

Wilmington usually gets more rain in January than Atlantic City. Wilmington gets 3.9 inches (98 mm) of rain, while Atlantic City receives 3.4 inches (87 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Wilmington or Atlantic City in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Wilmington and Atlantic City. The spring months attract visitors to Wilmington because of the beaches. Also, the beaches are the main draw to Atlantic City this time of year.

Wilmington is much warmer than Atlantic City in the spring. The daily temperature in Wilmington averages around 63°F (17°C) in April, and Atlantic City fluctuates around 51°F (10°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Atlantic City this time of the year. In Wilmington, it's very sunny this time of the year. Wilmington usually receives more sunshine than Atlantic City during spring. Wilmington gets 278 hours of sunny skies, while Atlantic City receives 217 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Wilmington usually receives less rain than Atlantic City. Wilmington gets 2.9 inches (73 mm) of rain, while Atlantic City receives 3.2 inches (82 mm) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Atlantic City and Wilmington