A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Atlantic City vs. Alexandria for Nightlife, Attractions, Food, and Couples

Should you visit Atlantic City or Alexandria?

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 Atlantic City and Alexandria. 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.

Atlantic City

Atlantic City is a colorful, glitzy, and flashy city. It's also popular because of the shopping, nightlife, and food. See Atlantic City travel costs.

Alexandria

Alexandria is a quaint, historic, and charming city. Don't miss this spot, as it's a charming small town with plenty of activities. Alexandria is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for shopping, museums, and nightlife. See Alexandria travel costs.

Atlantic City and Alexandria: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Active nightlife
  • Nice resorts
  • Popular beach
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • Less family-friendly
  • Public transit not as usable
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Scenic old town
  • Known for its beauty
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good public transit
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to Mount Vernon
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less family-friendly


Is there more to do in Atlantic City or Alexandria?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Alexandria than Atlantic City, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Alexandria is better known for its museums and attractions, food, historical sights, shopping, small town charm, and impressive beauty, while Atlantic City is more popular for its nightlife, resorts, and beaches. Atlantic City is more touristy than Alexandria and is popular for its casinos, gambling culture, nightlife scene, and wild personality Alexandria is well known for its long-running history, beautiful architecture, and small town atmosphere. Also, Alexandria is famous for Mount Vernon.

How is Atlantic City different from Alexandria?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Atlantic City
Alexandria

Alexandria is well known for its museums and landmarks. However, Atlantic City is not particularly known for its historical sights.

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around Alexandria. George Washington's Mount Vernon home is an iconic destination in Alexandria. There are also many other museums in town that focus on the region's history. The Alexandria History Museum at the Lyceum and the Gadsby's Tavern Museum are both interesting. There's Gunston Hall and the Carlyle House, as well as an archeology museum and many historic landmarks around town.

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 Atlantic City or Alexandria? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Atlantic City
Alexandria

Alexandria is well known for its restaurant scene. Also, Atlantic City is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Alexandria makes for a great culinary experience. The food, like the city itself, reflects the area's history. There are many southern classic dishes as well as a lot of seafood. You'll find lots of local restaurants that serve high quality dishes and a quaint atmosphere.

Atlantic City has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. 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 Atlantic City or Alexandria Better for Nightlife?

Atlantic City
Alexandria

Atlantic City is an unbeatable place for its evening party scene. Also, Alexandria is not as popular, but is still a nice city for nightlife.

The nightlife in Atlantic City is well established with world renowned clubs and venues. 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 Alexandria. There's a great bar scene, as well as tons of restaurants that make for a relaxing night out.

Is Atlantic City or Alexandria Better for Resorts?

Atlantic City
Alexandria

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

There are plenty of resorts in Atlantic City to choose from. 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.

Alexandria is not a resort destination.


Is Atlantic City or Alexandria Better for Beaches?

Atlantic City
Alexandria

Atlantic City is a good destination for the beach. However, Alexandria is not a beach destination.

Atlantic City offers a nice beach destination. 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.

Alexandria is not a beach destination.

Is Atlantic City or Alexandria Better for its Old Town?

Atlantic City
Alexandria

Alexandria is a world-class destination for its historic old town. However, Atlantic City does not have a historic old town.

The historic old town of Alexandria is revered around the world. At the heart of the city is the historic old town. Its lined with townhomes that date back to the 18th century. There are many historic sights that have stories from the early days of the country. There are also cobblestone streets and a great waterfront.

Atlantic City does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Atlantic City or Alexandria?

Atlantic City
Alexandria

Alexandria is well known for shopping. Also, Atlantic City is still popular, but not quite as popular for its shopping opportunities.

Alexandria is an extremely popular place for shoppers. King Street is the main shopping street in town and it offers the largest concentration of independently owned boutiques in the Washington D.C. area. It's the perfectly place to spend an afternoon shopping.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Atlantic City. 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 Atlantic City or Alexandria More Beautiful?

Atlantic City
Alexandria

Alexandria is well known for its scenery and beauty. However, Atlantic City is not a destination known for its beauty.

Alexandria is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. The historic architecture and beautiful waterfront make this an iconic destination.

Atlantic City is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Atlantic City or Alexandria Better for Families?

Atlantic City
Alexandria

Most people don't think of either Atlantic City or Alexandria as a family destination.

Atlantic City doesn't usually come to mind when thinking about kid-friendly destinations. 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.

For families, Alexandria is not always the best place to visit. The waterfront area is nice to walk around. You can break up the history with an ice cream shop and kids will also enjoy taking a boat tour.

Is Atlantic City or Alexandria Better for Couples?

Atlantic City
Alexandria

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

Couples visit Alexandria frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. The charm of the old town makes this a quaint and romantic destination. There's a waterfront area and many historic buildings. There are also romantic restaurants and plenty of places to grab brunch.

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 Atlantic City or Alexandria Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Atlantic City
Alexandria

Atlantic City and Alexandria are notable places to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Plenty of backpackers visit Atlantic City. There is a hostel in the area. You'll also find a younger crowd and plenty of partying.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Alexandria. There aren't any true hostels in town, but you will find some cheap motels.

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

Atlantic City
Alexandria

Alexandria is a world-class destination for its public transit. Also, Atlantic City is still popular, but not quite as popular for times when you don't have a car.

With a huge network, the transit system in Alexandria can get you around easily. DASH is the local bus system, but the city is also connected into the Washington DC metro system.

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.

Is Atlantic City or Alexandria a more walkable city?

Atlantic City
Alexandria

Alexandria is a world-class destination for its walkability. Also, Atlantic City is still popular, but not quite as popular for its high level of walkability.

Getting around Alexandria on foot is easy. It's a very easy city to walk around, particularly in the historic heart where most tourists spend their time.

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


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

Should I spend more time in Alexandria or Atlantic City?

How long in Atlantic City or Alexandria?

It's fun to spend time in either Atlantic City or Alexandria. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Alexandria due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Atlantic City, and 2-4 days is enough time in Alexandria.

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

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

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


  • How many days in Atlantic City or Alexandria? Ideal Length of Stay
    Atlantic City 1-3 
    Alexandria 2-4

One day in Atlantic City or Alexandria?

With shopping and nightlife around the colorful 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.

Many travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the charming destination of Alexandria. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. 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.

A weekend in Atlantic City or Alexandria?

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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Alexandria. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. 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.

Five days in Atlantic City or Alexandria?

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.

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the historic destination of Alexandria. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Five days is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips.


A week in Atlantic City or Alexandria?

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.

You'll find food and shopping around the beautiful city of Alexandria. Visiting the old town is also a must. 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.


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.


Which place is cheaper, Alexandria or Atlantic City?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations. These travel costs come from the actual spending of real travelers.

  • Atlantic City Prices
    USA Prices
    Alexandria Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Atlantic City $190
    Alexandria $0.00

The average daily cost (per person) in Atlantic City is $190, while the average daily cost in Alexandria is $0.00. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Atlantic City and Alexandria in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Atlantic City $73
    Alexandria $38
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Atlantic City $146
    Alexandria $76
Compare Hotels in Atlantic City and Alexandria

Looking for a hotel in Atlantic City or Alexandria? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Atlantic City


Hotels in Alexandria


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Atlantic City Hotel Prices and Alexandria Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Atlantic City $40
    Alexandria -

Is it cheaper to fly into Atlantic City or Alexandria?

Prices for flights to both Alexandria and Atlantic City change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    Atlantic City $86
    Alexandria -

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Atlantic City $44
    Alexandria -

Tours and Activities in Atlantic City

Here are a few actual costs in Atlantic City for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • 1 Hour Private Escape Room Experience in Ocean City: $36
  • 1-Hour Ocean Parasailing Adventure In Ocean City, MD: $95
  • 1-Hour Private Party Assateague Island Pony Cruise in Ocean City: $200
  • 1-Hour Private Party Happy Hour Booze Cruise in Ocean City, MD: $190
  • 1-Hour Sea Rocket Sunset & OC Harbor Cruise in Ocean City, MD: $38
  • 45-Minute Sea Rocket Speed Boat & Dolphin Cruise in Ocean City MD: $40
  • 75 Minute Private Party Back Bay Sunset Cruise in Ocean City, MD: $200
  • Aces to Ashes: Apparitions of Atlantic City Boardwalk Ghost Tour: $31
  • Assateague Horses, Herons and Happy Hour Cruise: $40
  • Atlantic City Adventure Scavenger Hunt: $29
  • Downtown/Boardwalk Foodie Tour: $110
  • EARLY BIRD SPECIAL: Speed Boat & Dolphin Cruise in Ocean City, MD: $35

Tours and Activities in Alexandria

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Alexandria.

  • Phantoms of the Potomac: Old Town Alexandria Ghost Tour: $27
  • American Revolution Guided Walking Tour: $30
  • Ultimate Dead of Night Walking Ghost Tour: $30
  • Old Town Guided Walking Tour with a Local: $39
  • Full-Day Bike Tour to Mt Vernon w/ Optional Boat: $68
  • Semi-Private Walking Tour Old Town Alexandria & Carlyle: $69
  • Alexandria & Mt Vernon Tour: $99
  • Old Town Southern Comfort Food & History Tour: $127

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Atlantic City $39
    Alexandria -

Sample the Local Flavors in Alexandria

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Alexandria:

  • Alexandria Ghosts: Spirits & Spirits Haunted Pub Crawl: $30


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

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


Which is Bigger, Atlantic City or Alexandria?

Alexandria has a larger population, and is about 3 times larger than the population of Atlantic City. When comparing the sizes of Atlantic City and Alexandria, 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 Atlantic City or Alexandria?

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 Atlantic City or Alexandria in the Summer?

Both Alexandria and Atlantic City during the summer are popular places to visit. The summer months attract visitors to Atlantic City because of the beaches and the family-friendly experiences. Also, the small town charm and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Alexandria this time of year.

In July, Atlantic City is generally around the same temperature as Alexandria. Daily temperatures in Atlantic City average around 75°F (24°C), and Alexandria fluctuates around 79°F (26°C).

In Alexandria, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Atlantic City. In the summer, Atlantic City often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Alexandria. Atlantic City gets 273 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Alexandria receives 278 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Atlantic City. Atlantic City usually gets more rain in July than Alexandria. Atlantic City gets 4.4 inches (112 mm) of rain, while Alexandria receives 3.5 inches (88 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Atlantic City 75°F (24°C) 
    Alexandria 79°F (26°C)

Should I visit Atlantic City or Alexandria in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Atlantic City and Alexandria. The shopping scene are the main draw to Atlantic City this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Alexandria for the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area.

Atlantic City is cooler than Alexandria in the autumn. The daily temperature in Atlantic City averages around 56°F (13°C) in October, and Alexandria fluctuates around 60°F (15°C).

Atlantic City usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Alexandria during autumn. Atlantic City gets 197 hours of sunny skies, while Alexandria receives 197 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Atlantic City usually receives less rain than Alexandria. Atlantic City gets 2.6 inches (67 mm) of rain, while Alexandria receives 2.9 inches (73 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Atlantic City 56°F (13°C) 
    Alexandria 60°F (15°C)

Should I visit Atlantic City or Alexandria in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Atlantic City as well as Alexandria. Many travelers come to Atlantic City for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Alexandria in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Alexandria can get quite cold in the winter. Be prepared for some very cold days in Atlantic City. In the winter, Atlantic City is much colder than Alexandria. Typically, the winter temperatures in Atlantic City in January average around 31°F (-0°C), and Alexandria averages at about 35°F (1°C).

In the winter, Atlantic City often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Alexandria. Atlantic City gets 146 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Alexandria receives 139 hours of full sun.

Atlantic City usually gets more rain in January than Alexandria. Atlantic City gets 3.4 inches (87 mm) of rain, while Alexandria receives 2.7 inches (68 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Atlantic City 31°F (-0°C) 
    Alexandria 35°F (1°C)

Should I visit Atlantic City or Alexandria in the Spring?

Both Alexandria and Atlantic City are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Atlantic City in the spring for the beaches. Also, most visitors come to Alexandria for the small town charm and the natural beauty during these months.

In April, Atlantic City is generally cooler than Alexandria. Daily temperatures in Atlantic City average around 51°F (10°C), and Alexandria fluctuates around 56°F (14°C).

It's quite sunny in Alexandria. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Atlantic City. Atlantic City usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Alexandria during spring. Atlantic City gets 217 hours of sunny skies, while Alexandria receives 228 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Atlantic City usually receives more rain than Alexandria. Atlantic City gets 3.2 inches (82 mm) of rain, while Alexandria receives 2.8 inches (72 mm) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Atlantic City 51°F (10°C) 
    Alexandria 56°F (14°C)

Typical Weather for Alexandria and Atlantic City

Atlantic City Alexandria
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 31°F (-0°C) 3.4 inches (87 mm) 35°F (1°C) 2.7 inches (68 mm)
Feb 33°F (1°C) 2.5 inches (64 mm) 37°F (3°C) 2.7 inches (69 mm)
Mar 42°F (6°C) 4.6 inches (116 mm) 47°F (8°C) 3.2 inches (82 mm)
Apr 51°F (10°C) 3.2 inches (82 mm) 56°F (14°C) 2.8 inches (72 mm)
May 61°F (16°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm) 66°F (19°C) 3.5 inches (89 mm)
Jun 70°F (21°C) 2 inches (50 mm) 75°F (24°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm)
Jul 75°F (24°C) 4.4 inches (112 mm) 79°F (26°C) 3.5 inches (88 mm)
Aug 74°F (23°C) 4.6 inches (116 mm) 78°F (26°C) 3.9 inches (98 mm)
Sep 67°F (19°C) 3.4 inches (87 mm) 71°F (22°C) 3.3 inches (85 mm)
Oct 56°F (13°C) 2.6 inches (67 mm) 60°F (15°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm)
Nov 46°F (8°C) 2.8 inches (71 mm) 50°F (10°C) 3.2 inches (82 mm)
Dec 36°F (2°C) 3 inches (76 mm) 39°F (4°C) 3.2 inches (82 mm)