A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Atlantic City vs. Hilo for Nightlife, Food, Resorts, and Families

Should you visit Atlantic City or Hilo?

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 Hilo. 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.

Hilo

Hilo is a mellow, friendly, and authentic town. Hilo is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for hiking, museums, and food. See Hilo travel costs.

Atlantic City and Hilo: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Atlantic City or Hilo?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Hilo than Atlantic City, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Hilo is better known for its museums and attractions, food, scuba diving & snorkeling, hiking, and impressive beauty, while Atlantic City is more popular for its nightlife, resorts, and shopping. Atlantic City is more touristy than Hilo and is popular for its casinos, gambling culture, nightlife scene, and wild personality Hilo is well known for its nearby rainforests, waterfalls, and green gardens. Also, Hilo is famous for Akaka Falls State Park.

How is Atlantic City different from Hilo?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Hilo is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. Top museums in and around town include the Lyman Museum, the Pacific Tsunami Museum, Imiloa Astronomy Center, and Mokupapapa 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 Hilo? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Hilo 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, Hilo makes for a great culinary experience. This is the largest city on the island and you'll find a restaurant scene that caters to both locals and tourists. There are a number of local dishes that you can try such as Pla Rad Prik (a Thai fish dish), mushroom pot pie, and crab and avocado melt.

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 Hilo Better for Nightlife?

Atlantic City is very popular for its evening party scene. However, Hilo is not known for nightlife.

Atlantic City is a party destination, and you'll find plenty of activity all night long. 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.

Most people don't head to Hilo specifically for the nightlife scene, but you can find a few options. It's a town that goes to bed early, but there are some local bars that have a chill and relaxing atmosphere.

Is Atlantic City or Hilo Better for Resorts?

Atlantic City is a great city for its luxury resorts. However, Hilo is not known for its resorts.

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.

Hilo has a few resort options worth checking out. You'll find more hotels than resorts in town.

Is Atlantic City or Hilo Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Hilo is a town with a few options for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Atlantic City is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Hilo has a few snorkeling spots. Richardsons Ocean Park is the best snorkeling spot nearby but, in general, the water near town has poor visibility because of the frequent rain.

Atlantic City is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Atlantic City or Hilo Better for Beaches?

Atlantic City and Hilo both offer notable beaches.

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.

Hilo is a good option for a beach vacation. The town isn't really known for its beaches but there are some decent options if you want to stay nearby and hit the coastline. Beaches in the area include Coconut Island, Reeds Bay Beach Park, and Onekahakaha Beach Park.

Is Atlantic City or Hilo Better for Hiking?

Hilo is a world-class destination for its hiking experiences. However, Atlantic City is not a hiking destination.

Hilo is well-known for its hiking and trekking. You'll find incredible hikes in the area to many impressive waterfalls. There are also coastal trails and hikes to spectacular viewpoints.

Atlantic City is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Atlantic City or Hilo?

Atlantic City is a popular place for its shopping areas. However, Hilo is not known for shopping.

Atlantic City has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. 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.

Hilo is a good destination for shopping. You can pick up anything you need in town, just head to Hilo Shopping Center.

Is Atlantic City or Hilo More Beautiful?

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

Hilo is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. This side of the island is filled with beautiful waterfalls, lush rainforests, and tropical gardens.

Atlantic City is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Atlantic City or Hilo Better for Families?

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

Hilo is a very family-friendly place to visit. The town has an authentic and unpretentious vibe that is fun for families. There are low key beaches, farmer's markets, local museums, and nearby hiking. If you want to stay away from the larger resorts and see a more local side to Hawaii, then this is a great option.

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 Hilo Better for Couples?

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

Couples visit Hilo frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. Couples will enjoy visiting Liliuokalani Gardens, taking sunset cruises, and sampling the local cuisine. The town also makes a good base for hiking and exploring the beaches on the island.

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 Hilo Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Hilo 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 Hilo. The town has several local hostels that many backpackers prefer for their authentic and mellow atmospheres.

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 Hilo Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Atlantic City is a popular place for times when you don't have a car. However, Hilo is not known 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 Hilo. The Hele-On is a bus service that connects Hilo to Kona with north and south routes.

Is Atlantic City or Hilo a more walkable city?

Atlantic City is a great city for its ease of walking around. Also, Hilo is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its walkability.

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

Hilo is somewhat walkable. The downtown is a nice place to take a stroll, but if you want to get out of town, and you really should, then you'll need a car.

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

Should I spend more time in Hilo or Atlantic City?

How long in Atlantic City or Hilo?

Both Atlantic City and Hilo have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Hilo than in Atlantic City. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Atlantic City, and 3-7 days is enough time in Hilo.

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

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

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

One day in Atlantic City or Hilo?

Visitors enjoy the shopping and nightlife when visiting the destination of Atlantic City. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One day is usually enough time to experience most activities.

Many travelers enjoy the food and museums when visiting the laid back destination of Hilo. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. Don't miss the hiking, as that's what most people do. 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 Hilo?

Atlantic City is a fun place to experience. Most people visit for the nightlife. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. A weekend is often enough time to do most activities. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Hilo. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. Don't miss the hiking, as that's what most people do. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

Five days in Atlantic City or Hilo?

You'll find food and shopping around the colorful destination of Atlantic City. This city offers something for everyone. It's also a relaxing resort destination. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Many travelers enjoy the food and museums when visiting the authentic destination of Hilo. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. This town 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.

A week in Atlantic City or Hilo?

The glitzy city of Atlantic City offers shopping and nightlife. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. One week 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.

Many travelers enjoy the museums and food when visiting the beautiful town of Hilo. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Plenty of people spend one week in the area when traveling.So, one week is just the right amount of time to spend here. 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.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Atlantic City and Hilo, we can see that Hilo 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 Hilo would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Hilo 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 Atlantic City Expensive? and Is Hilo Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Atlantic City or Hilo?

Hilo has a larger population, and is about 6% larger than the population of Atlantic City. When comparing the sizes of Atlantic City and Hilo, 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 Hilo?

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 Hilo in the Summer?

Both Hilo and Atlantic City during the summer are popular places to visit. The beaches and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Atlantic City this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Hilo for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Atlantic City is generally around the same temperature as Hilo. Daily temperatures in Atlantic City average around 75°F (24°C), and Hilo fluctuates around 76°F (24°C).

It's quite sunny in Atlantic City. In the summer, Atlantic City often gets more sunshine than Hilo. Atlantic City gets 273 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Hilo receives 169 hours of full sun.

Hilo gets a good bit of rain this time of year. It rains a lot this time of the year in Atlantic City. Atlantic City usually gets less rain in July than Hilo. Atlantic City gets 4.4 inches (112 mm) of rain, while Hilo receives 9.7 inches (247 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Atlantic City or Hilo in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Atlantic City and Hilo. Many travelers come to Atlantic City for the shopping scene. Furthermore, many visitors come to Hilo in the autumn for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

Atlantic City is much colder than Hilo in the autumn. The daily temperature in Atlantic City averages around 56°F (13°C) in October, and Hilo fluctuates around 76°F (24°C).

Atlantic City usually receives more sunshine than Hilo during autumn. Atlantic City gets 197 hours of sunny skies, while Hilo receives 138 hours of full sun in the autumn.

Hilo receives a lot of rain in the autumn. In October, Atlantic City usually receives less rain than Hilo. Atlantic City gets 2.6 inches (67 mm) of rain, while Hilo receives 9.8 inches (248 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Atlantic City or Hilo in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Atlantic City as well as Hilo. Many visitors come to Atlantic City in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Additionally, most visitors come to Hilo for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Atlantic City can get quite cold in the winter. In the winter, Atlantic City is much colder than Hilo. Typically, the winter temperatures in Atlantic City in January average around 31°F (-0°C), and Hilo averages at about 72°F (22°C).

In the winter, Atlantic City often gets less sunshine than Hilo. Atlantic City gets 146 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Hilo receives 158 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Hilo. Atlantic City usually gets less rain in January than Hilo. Atlantic City gets 3.4 inches (87 mm) of rain, while Hilo receives 8.7 inches (221 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Atlantic City or Hilo in the Spring?

Both Hilo and Atlantic City are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Atlantic City for the beaches during these months. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Hilo because of the beaches and the natural beauty.

In April, Atlantic City is generally much colder than Hilo. Daily temperatures in Atlantic City average around 51°F (10°C), and Hilo fluctuates around 73°F (23°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Atlantic City. Atlantic City usually receives more sunshine than Hilo during spring. Atlantic City gets 217 hours of sunny skies, while Hilo receives 134 hours of full sun in the spring.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Hilo. In April, Atlantic City usually receives less rain than Hilo. Atlantic City gets 3.2 inches (82 mm) of rain, while Hilo receives 15.6 inches (395 mm) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Hilo and Atlantic City