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

Should you visit Atlantic City or Boise?

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 Boise. 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 flashy, party-oriented, and colorful city. It's also popular because of the food, beaches, and shopping. See Atlantic City travel costs.

Boise

Boise is a friendly, welcoming, and authentic city. It's also known for nightlife, shopping, and museums. See Boise travel costs.

Atlantic City and Boise: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Active nightlife
  • Nice resorts
  • Popular beach
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Very walkable
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • Less family-friendly
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less family-friendly
  • Less popular with couples
  • Less popular with backpackers
  • Less walkable


Is there more to do in Atlantic City or Boise?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Atlantic City than Boise, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Atlantic City is better known for its food, nightlife, resorts, and beaches, while Boise is more popular for its museums and attractions. Atlantic City is more touristy than Boise and is popular for its casinos, gambling culture, nightlife scene, and wild personality Also, Atlantic City is famous for Steel Pier and the Boardwalk. Boise is well known for its many outdoor and recreational activities.

How is Atlantic City different from Boise?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Atlantic City
Boise

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

Boise is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. As the state capital, there's a nice selection of local museums around town. Favorites include the Boise Art Museum, the Basque Museum & Cultural Center, the Idaho Black History Museum, and Discovery Center.

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 Boise? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Atlantic City
Boise

Atlantic City is a popular place for its restaurants. However, Boise is lacking in options for its restaurant scene.

Atlantic City is becoming an appealing option for foodies. 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.

Boise offers some easy restaurants to choose from. While Idaho has long been associated with the potato, the locals usually think of "finger steaks" when describing local food. These are deep-friend beef strips that are as good as they sound.

Is Atlantic City or Boise Better for Nightlife?

Atlantic City
Boise

Atlantic City is a must-visit destination for its evening party scene. Also, Boise is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for nightlife.

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.

Boise has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. In downtown Boise you'll find a selection of bars, lounges, and breweries. There's enough around town to keep the nightlife scene interesting.

Is Atlantic City or Boise Better for Resorts?

Atlantic City
Boise

Atlantic City is an excellent place to visit for its luxury resorts. However, Boise is not a resort destination.

Atlantic City is known as a popular and fun resort destination. 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.

Boise is not a resort destination.


Is Atlantic City or Boise Better for Beaches?

Atlantic City
Boise

Atlantic City is a popular place for the beach. However, Boise is not a beach destination.

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.

Boise is not a beach destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Atlantic City or Boise?

Atlantic City
Boise

Shopping is a popular activity in both Boise and Atlantic City.

Atlantic City is a great destination for shopping. 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.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Boise. You'll find a mix of local boutiques, independent vendors, and suburban shopping centers where you'll find anything that you might need.

Is Atlantic City or Boise Better for Families?

Atlantic City
Boise

Most people don't think of either Atlantic City or Boise 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, Boise is not always the best place to visit. You'll find parks, playgrounds, and the Discovery Center which will help keep kids entertained.


Is Atlantic City or Boise Better for Couples?

Atlantic City
Boise

Atlantic City is a popular place for couples. However, Boise is lacking in options for romance.

Atlantic City is a good city for couples to visit. 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.

Boise is not the best destination for a couple to visit. Date night activities include dining at a nice restaurants and seeing a show at the theater.

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

Atlantic City
Boise

Atlantic City is a popular place for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Boise is lacking in options for backpackers.

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.

Boise is not the best destination for backpackers and budget travelers due to its high prices. Backpackers rarely make their way to this town.

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

Atlantic City
Boise

Atlantic City is a popular place for times when you don't have a car. However, Boise is lacking in options for its public transit.

Atlantic City has some public transit options. 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 Boise. There are infrequent buses around town, but visitors usually have a car to get around town efficiently.


Is Atlantic City or Boise a more walkable city?

Atlantic City
Boise

Atlantic City is an excellent place to visit for its ease of walking around. However, Boise is lacking in options for its walkability.

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

Boise is generally not very walkable. There are a couple of walkable neighborhoods but, in general, the town isn't very walkable.

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

Should I spend more time in Boise or Atlantic City?

How long in Atlantic City or Boise?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Atlantic City or Boise to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Atlantic City than Boise because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Atlantic City, and 1-2 days is enough time in Boise.

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

Couples should spend more time in Atlantic City than Boise. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Atlantic City 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 Boise 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.


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

One day in Atlantic City or Boise?

In Atlantic City, many people enjoy the nightlife and food that this colorful destination offers. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. Lots of people come for the nightlife. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Because of this, one day is usually enough time for a trip here.

Many travelers enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the welcoming destination of Boise. Your budget might influence how long you stay. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then one day is just the right amount of time to spend here.

A weekend in Atlantic City or Boise?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Atlantic City. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. This would be the perfect place to spend a weekend, as it has just the right amount of activities. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

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

Atlantic City is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the shopping and nightlife when visiting the destination of Atlantic City. Lots of people come for the nightlife. 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.

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the welcoming destination of Boise. 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 Boise?

You'll find nightlife and food around the flashy destination of Atlantic City. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Lots of people come for the nightlife. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

You'll find museums and nightlife around the city of Boise. 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, Boise 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
    Boise Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Atlantic City $190
    Boise $179

The average daily cost (per person) in Atlantic City is $190, while the average daily cost in Boise is $179. 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 Boise in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Atlantic City $73
    Boise $75
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Atlantic City $146
    Boise $150
Compare Hotels in Atlantic City and Boise

Looking for a hotel in Atlantic City or Boise? 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 Boise


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 Boise Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Atlantic City $40
    Boise $34

Is it cheaper to fly into Atlantic City or Boise?

Prices for flights to both Boise 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
    Boise $78

Typical Food Prices in Boise

For Boise, here are some examples of average food and meal prices for travelers:


  • Hotel
    $59
  • Cracker Barrel Lunch (for 4)
    $55

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

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

Typical Entertainment Prices in Boise

Below are a few sample prices from actual travelers for Boise's activities, tours, and tickets:


  • Edwards Boise Imax
    $27

Tours and Activities in Boise

For Boise, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • Scavenger Hunt Adventure in Boise by 3Quest Challenge: $10
  • Boise Scavenger Hunt Walking Tour and Game: $25
  • A Macabre History of Boise Walking Tour: $25
  • Boise Scavenger Hunt Adventure: $49
  • Boise River: Guided Rafting, Swimming, and Wildlife Tour: $68
  • Culinary and Cultural Tour of Boise: $152
  • Boise's Best Brunch Experience: $152

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Atlantic City $39
    Boise $24


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


Which is Bigger, Atlantic City or Boise?

Boise has a larger population, and is about 4 times larger than the population of Atlantic City. When comparing the sizes of Atlantic City and Boise, 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.