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

Should you visit Atlantic City or Berkeley?

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 Berkeley. 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 glitzy, flashy, and party-oriented city. Other popular activities here include nightlife, food, and beaches. See Atlantic City travel costs.

Berkeley

Berkeley is a quirky, progressive, and diverse city. Berkeley is a gorgeous place to visit. It's also known for shopping, museums, and nightlife. See Berkeley travel costs.

Atlantic City and Berkeley: 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
  • Active nightlife
  • Known for its beauty
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Good public transit


Is there more to do in Atlantic City or Berkeley?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Atlantic City than Berkeley, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Atlantic City is better known for its nightlife, resorts, and beaches, while Berkeley is more popular for its museums and attractions, food, shopping, and impressive beauty. Atlantic City is more touristy than Berkeley and is known for its casinos, gambling culture, nightlife scene, and wild personality Also, Atlantic City is famous for Steel Pier and the Boardwalk. Berkeley is well known for its progressive and liberal mindset as well as its farmer's markets and local boutiques.

How is Atlantic City different from Berkeley?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Atlantic City
Berkeley

Berkeley 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 Berkeley. There are a wide range of museums around town, many of which are affiliated with the university. There are natural history museums, art museums, cultural museums, as well as historical and science museums.

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 Berkeley? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Atlantic City
Berkeley

Berkeley 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, Berkeley makes for a great culinary experience. There's a huge diversity of restaurants that range from international to California flavors. There are also eateries that cater to the student population, as well as fine dining and everything in between. You'll also find many farmer's markets, vegan options, and restaurants that use locally sourced ingredients.

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 Berkeley Better for Nightlife?

Atlantic City
Berkeley

Atlantic City is renowned for its evening party scene. Also, Berkeley is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for nightlife.

Atlantic City is a destination that you simply have to visit at least once for nightlife. 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.

Berkeley has a lively atmosphere and nightlife is popular here. With its large student population, you'll find no shortage of nightlife activities around town. There are bars and pubs as well as live music venues and plenty of unique experiences.

Is Atlantic City or Berkeley Better for Resorts?

Atlantic City
Berkeley

Atlantic City is notable for its resorts. However, Berkeley 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.

Berkeley is not a resort destination.


Is Atlantic City or Berkeley Better for Beaches?

Atlantic City
Berkeley

Atlantic City is a nice place to visit for the beach. However, Berkeley is not a beach destination.

Atlantic City has a beach worth visiting. 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.

Berkeley is not a beach destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Atlantic City or Berkeley?

Atlantic City
Berkeley

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

Berkeley is an extremely popular place for shoppers. Quirky and local is what shopping in Berkeley is all about. There are also plenty of thrift stores and farmer's markets. Head to Fourth Street or Telegraph Avenue for some of the most interesting shopping opportunities.

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 Berkeley More Beautiful?

Atlantic City
Berkeley

Berkeley is a good destination for its scenery and beauty. However, Atlantic City is not a destination known for its beauty.

Berkeley is a gorgeous place to visit. It has a nice campus and a unique setting that mixes an urban environment with a bayside location.

Atlantic City is not a destination known for its beauty.


Is Atlantic City or Berkeley Better for Families?

Atlantic City
Berkeley

Berkeley is a good destination for its family-friendly activities. However, Atlantic City is not particularly known for its kid-friendly activities.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Berkeley. There are many outdoor places to explore with kids like Tilden Park or UC Botanical Garden. There are also science museums, nature centers, and plenty of kid-friendly restaurants.

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 Atlantic City or Berkeley Better for Couples?

Atlantic City
Berkeley

Atlantic City and Berkeley both notable destinations for a couple.

Atlantic City is a nice destination for couples. 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.

Berkeley makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. There's a wonderful mix of cultural activities and outdoor parks that you can explore. There's the Berkeley Rose Garden, the Berkeley Repertory Theatre, and many charming restaurants.

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

Atlantic City
Berkeley

Berkeley is well known for backpackers. Also, Atlantic City is still popular, but not quite as popular for backpackers and budget travelers.

Backpackers come from all over to visit Berkeley. With its eclectic and alternative vibe, backpackers will find their place in this city. There's also a huge student population and a couple of hostels in the area.

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


Is Atlantic City or Berkeley Better for Students?

Atlantic City
Berkeley

Berkeley is well known for students. However, Atlantic City is not popular with students.

Many students visit Berkeley. University of California, Berkeley is a well reviewed university that attracts a progressive and motivated student population. The city is an expensive, but very rewarding place to study with many activities and opportunities for students.

Atlantic City is not popular with students.

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

Atlantic City
Berkeley

Berkeley 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 Berkeley can get you around easily. It's located in the San Francisco Bay Area, and it has access to buses and several BART stations.

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 Berkeley a more walkable city?

Atlantic City
Berkeley

Berkeley 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 Berkeley on foot is easy. Most of Berkeley is very walkable, particularly the parts around the university.

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 Berkeley Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Berkeley or Atlantic City?

How long in Atlantic City or Berkeley?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Atlantic City and Berkeley. In our opinion, Berkeley has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Berkeley than Atlantic City. In general, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Atlantic City, and 2-3 days is enough time in Berkeley.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Berkeley 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 Berkeley.


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

One day in Atlantic City or Berkeley?

The city of Atlantic City offers nightlife and food. It's also a relaxing resort destination. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one day here. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Many travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the diverse destination of Berkeley. 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 Berkeley?

Atlantic City is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this city makes for a great vacation. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Atlantic City, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Berkeley. 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 Berkeley?

Atlantic City is a popular choice for travelers. It's no surprise that nightlife is why people visit. 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. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the quirky destination of Berkeley. 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 Berkeley?

Atlantic City is a great place to explore. It's no surprise that nightlife is why people visit. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This city offers something for everyone.

You'll find food and shopping around the city of Berkeley. 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, Berkeley 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
    Berkeley Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Atlantic City $190
    Berkeley $217

The average daily cost (per person) in Atlantic City is $190, while the average daily cost in Berkeley is $217. 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 Berkeley in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Atlantic City $73
    Berkeley $131
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Atlantic City $146
    Berkeley $262
Compare Hotels in Atlantic City and Berkeley

Looking for a hotel in Atlantic City or Berkeley? 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 Berkeley


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 Berkeley Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Atlantic City $40
    Berkeley $30

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Berkeley

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Berkeley:

  • Arrival Transfer from Oakland Airport OAK to Oakland by SUV: $270
  • Private Arrival Transfer from Oakland Airport OAK: $81
  • Private Departure Transfer to Oakland Airport OAK: $97

Is it cheaper to fly into Atlantic City or Berkeley?

Prices for flights to both Berkeley 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
    Berkeley $63

Typical Food Prices in Berkeley

Some typical examples of dining costs in Berkeley are as follows:


  • Chocolates at Sweet Dreams
    $4.46

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Berkeley

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Berkeley.

  • Best of North Berkeley Food Tour: $137
  • Black Food Tour - Downtown Oakland: $150

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Atlantic City $44
    Berkeley $30

Tours and Activities in Atlantic City

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

  • Atlantic City Adventure Scavenger Hunt: $29
  • Aces to Ashes: Apparitions of Atlantic City Boardwalk Ghost Tour: $31
  • EARLY BIRD SPECIAL: Speed Boat & Dolphin Cruise in Ocean City, MD: $35
  • OC Bay Hopper - Assateague Island Cruise: $35
  • OC Bay Hopper - Sunset Cruise: $35
  • 1 Hour Private Escape Room Experience in Ocean City: $36
  • 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
  • OC Bay Hopper Sunset Cruise Departs Downtown OC: $40
  • Assateague Horses, Herons and Happy Hour Cruise: $40
  • Ocean City Bay Hopper - Greene Turtle Lunch Cruise: $45
  • OC Bay Hopper - Happy Hour Cruise: $45

Tours and Activities in Berkeley

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Berkeley are as follows:

  • Ruth Bancroft Garden General Admission Ticket: $15
  • 2 Hours Private Walking Tour in Berkeley: $20
  • Scavenger Hunt Adventure in Berkeley by Zombie Scavengers: $20
  • Unique Scavenger Hunt Experience in Antioch by Zombie Scavengers: $20
  • Redwoods of Marin and Mt. Tamalpais Walking Tour with Local Guide: $59
  • Historic Houseboat Tour: $65
  • Experience Create your own jewelry workshop for beginners: $95
  • Classic Sausalito Wooden Boat Tour: $100
  • Oakland's Temescal Tastes Tour: $126

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Atlantic City $39
    Berkeley $13

Sample the Local Flavors in Berkeley

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

  • Guided Wine Tasting at Berkeley Wineries with Local Sommelière : $175
  • Guided Wine Tasting with Local Sommelière: $175


When comparing the travel costs between Atlantic City and Berkeley, we can see that Berkeley 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 Atlantic City Expensive? and Is Berkeley Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Atlantic City or Berkeley?

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

Both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. And since both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Atlantic City or Berkeley in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Atlantic City and Berkeley. Many visitors come to Atlantic City in the summer for the beaches and the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Berkeley for the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In July, Atlantic City is generally a little warmer than Berkeley. Daily temperatures in Atlantic City average around 75°F (24°C), and Berkeley fluctuates around 63°F (17°C).

Atlantic City gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In July, Atlantic City usually receives more rain than Berkeley. Atlantic City gets 4.4 inches (112 mm) of rain, while Berkeley receives 0.1 inches (2 mm) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Atlantic City 75°F (24°C) 
    Berkeley 63°F (17°C)

Should I visit Atlantic City or Berkeley in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Atlantic City as well as Berkeley. Most visitors come to Atlantic City for the shopping scene during these months. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Berkeley because of the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area.

Atlantic City is cooler than Berkeley in the autumn. The daily temperature in Atlantic City averages around 56°F (13°C) in October, and Berkeley fluctuates around 63°F (17°C).

Atlantic City usually gets more rain in October than Berkeley. Atlantic City gets 2.6 inches (67 mm) of rain, while Berkeley receives 1.3 inches (33 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Atlantic City 56°F (13°C) 
    Berkeley 63°F (17°C)

Should I visit Atlantic City or Berkeley in the Winter?

Both Berkeley and Atlantic City are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The winter months attract visitors to Atlantic City because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Berkeley this time of year.

The weather in Atlantic City can be very cold. In the winter, Atlantic City is much colder than Berkeley. Typically, the winter temperatures in Atlantic City in January average around 31°F (-0°C), and Berkeley averages at about 50°F (10°C).

In January, Atlantic City usually receives less rain than Berkeley. Atlantic City gets 3.4 inches (87 mm) of rain, while Berkeley receives 3.8 inches (96 mm) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Atlantic City 31°F (-0°C) 
    Berkeley 50°F (10°C)

Should I visit Atlantic City or Berkeley in the Spring?

Both Berkeley and Atlantic City during the spring are popular places to visit. The beaches are the main draw to Atlantic City this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Berkeley for the natural beauty.

In April, Atlantic City is generally cooler than Berkeley. Daily temperatures in Atlantic City average around 51°F (10°C), and Berkeley fluctuates around 58°F (14°C).

Atlantic City usually gets more rain in April than Berkeley. Atlantic City gets 3.2 inches (82 mm) of rain, while Berkeley receives 1.2 inches (31 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Atlantic City 51°F (10°C) 
    Berkeley 58°F (14°C)

Typical Weather for Berkeley and Atlantic City

Atlantic City Berkeley
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 31°F (-0°C) 3.4 inches (87 mm) 50°F (10°C) 3.8 inches (96 mm)
Feb 33°F (1°C) 2.5 inches (64 mm) 54°F (12°C) 2.7 inches (69 mm)
Mar 42°F (6°C) 4.6 inches (116 mm) 56°F (13°C) 2.7 inches (69 mm)
Apr 51°F (10°C) 3.2 inches (82 mm) 58°F (14°C) 1.2 inches (31 mm)
May 61°F (16°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm) 60°F (15°C) 0.2 inches (5 mm)
Jun 70°F (21°C) 2 inches (50 mm) 62°F (17°C) 0.1 inches (3 mm)
Jul 75°F (24°C) 4.4 inches (112 mm) 63°F (17°C) 0.1 inches (2 mm)
Aug 74°F (23°C) 4.6 inches (116 mm) 64°F (18°C) 0.1 inches (1 mm)
Sep 67°F (19°C) 3.4 inches (87 mm) 66°F (19°C) 0.3 inches (7 mm)
Oct 56°F (13°C) 2.6 inches (67 mm) 63°F (17°C) 1.3 inches (33 mm)
Nov 46°F (8°C) 2.8 inches (71 mm) 57°F (14°C) 2.8 inches (71 mm)
Dec 36°F (2°C) 3 inches (76 mm) 51°F (11°C) 2.7 inches (68 mm)