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

Should you visit Atlantic City or Norfolk?

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 Norfolk. 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 party-oriented, colorful, and glitzy city. It's also known for beaches, shopping, and nightlife. See Atlantic City travel costs.

Norfolk

Norfolk is a blue collar, maritime, and authentic city. It's also known for shopping, museums, and nightlife. See Norfolk travel costs.

Atlantic City and Norfolk: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Atlantic City or Norfolk?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Atlantic City. Although Atlantic City and Norfolk are both popular with visitors, Atlantic City has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Atlantic City is more popular for its nightlife, resorts, and beaches, while Norfolk is known for its museums and attractions. Atlantic City is more touristy than Norfolk and is known for its casinos, gambling culture, nightlife scene, and wild personality It is also home to Steel Pier and the Boardwalk. Norfolk is popular for its naval base and military presence.

How is Atlantic City different from Norfolk?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Norfolk is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. There are some interesting museums in town like the Chrysler Museum, the Hampton Roads Naval Museum, and the Norfolk Police and Fire Museum. You should also check out the Nauticus and the Battleship Wisconsin.

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 Norfolk? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Foodies will find both Atlantic City and Norfolk both to be good destinations.

Atlantic City offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. 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.

Norfolk has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. You'll find a decent collection of restaurants in the downtown area. Food options include local seafood, brunch, casual eateries, and fine dining.

Is Atlantic City or Norfolk Better for Nightlife?

Atlantic City is a must-visit destination for nightlife. Also, Norfolk is still popular, but not quite as popular 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.

If you're looking for night time activities Norfolk has a few options to choose from. Downtown is where you'll find the most busy nightlife venues. The city has great breweries, and the live music scene has taken off. There are also lounges, dance clubs, and wine bars to choose from.

Is Atlantic City or Norfolk Better for Resorts?

Atlantic City is a great destination for its resorts. However, Norfolk 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.

Norfolk is not a resort destination.

Is Atlantic City or Norfolk Better for Beaches?

Atlantic City is a popular place for its beaches. However, Norfolk 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.

Norfolk is not a beach destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Atlantic City or Norfolk?

Shopping is a popular activity in both Norfolk 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 Norfolk. There's a mix of shopping malls, local boutiques, farmer's markets, and shopping centers around town.

Is Atlantic City or Norfolk Better for Families?

Norfolk 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 Norfolk. The Norfolk Zoo is always a hit with kids. You should also visit the USS Wisconsin which offers tours, as well as the Douglas MacArthur Memorial Museum.

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 Norfolk Better for Couples?

Atlantic City is a popular place for romance. However, Norfolk is a city with minimal options for its romantic activities.

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.

Most people don't think of Norfolk as a couple's destination. There are some nice hotels and several great parks and outdoor activities.

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

Atlantic City is a popular place for backpackers. However, Norfolk is a city with minimal options for backpackers and budget travelers.

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.

Norfolk is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. This is an often overlooked area for backpackers.

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

Atlantic City is a popular place for its public transit. However, Norfolk is a city with minimal options for times when you don't have a car.

You'll find some public transit in Atlantic City, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. 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 mostly limited in Norfolk. While there are buses, ferries, and even lightrail in the area, you really want to have a car to get around.

Is Atlantic City or Norfolk a more walkable city?

Atlantic City is a great destination for its walkability. Also, Norfolk is still popular, but not quite as popular for its high level of walkability.

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

Norfolk is a somewhat walkable place. Downtown is the most walkable part of the city.

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

Should I spend more time in Norfolk or Atlantic City?

How long in Atlantic City or Norfolk?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Atlantic City or Norfolk to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Atlantic City than Norfolk 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 Norfolk.

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

Couples should spend more time in Atlantic City than Norfolk. 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 Norfolk 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 Atlantic City or Norfolk?

In Atlantic City, you'll find shopping and nightlife. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. One reason most visitors come is for the nightlife. This city offers something for everyone. This would be the perfect place to spend one day, as it has just the right amount of activities.

Many travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the authentic destination of Norfolk. 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 Norfolk?

In Atlantic City, you'll find nightlife and food. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. One reason most visitors come is for the nightlife. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Atlantic City has to offer.

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

Atlantic City is a great place to explore. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the maritime destination of Norfolk. 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 Norfolk?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Atlantic City. Many people enjoy the shopping and nightlife when visiting Atlantic City. One reason most visitors come is for the nightlife. It's also a relaxing resort destination. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

You'll find food and shopping around the city of Norfolk. 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.

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

Which is Bigger, Atlantic City or Norfolk?

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

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 Norfolk in the Summer?

Both Norfolk and Atlantic City are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The beaches and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Atlantic City this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Norfolk for the family-friendly experiences.

Atlantic City is around the same temperature as Norfolk in the summer. The daily temperature in Atlantic City averages around 75°F (24°C) in July, and Norfolk fluctuates around 79°F (26°C).

It's quite sunny in Norfolk. 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 Norfolk during summer. Atlantic City gets 273 hours of sunny skies, while Norfolk receives 279 hours of full sun in the summer.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Norfolk. It's quite rainy in Atlantic City. In July, Atlantic City usually receives less rain than Norfolk. Atlantic City gets 4.4 inches (112 mm) of rain, while Norfolk receives 5.7 inches (145 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Atlantic City or Norfolk in the Autumn?

Both Norfolk and Atlantic City during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Atlantic City for the shopping scene. Furthermore, many visitors come to Norfolk in the autumn for the shopping scene.

In the autumn, Atlantic City is cooler than Norfolk. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Atlantic City in October average around 56°F (13°C), and Norfolk averages at about 62°F (16°C).

In Norfolk, it's very sunny this time of the year. In the autumn, Atlantic City often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Norfolk. Atlantic City gets 197 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Norfolk receives 211 hours of full sun.

Atlantic City usually gets less rain in October than Norfolk. Atlantic City gets 2.6 inches (67 mm) of rain, while Norfolk receives 3.1 inches (78 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Atlantic City or Norfolk in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Atlantic City and Norfolk. Many visitors come to Atlantic City in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Furthermore, most visitors come to Norfolk for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Norfolk can be very cold during winter. Atlantic City can get quite cold in the winter. In January, Atlantic City is generally much colder than Norfolk. Daily temperatures in Atlantic City average around 31°F (-0°C), and Norfolk fluctuates around 39°F (4°C).

Atlantic City usually receives less sunshine than Norfolk during winter. Atlantic City gets 146 hours of sunny skies, while Norfolk receives 168 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Atlantic City usually receives around the same amount of rain as Norfolk. Atlantic City gets 3.4 inches (87 mm) of rain, while Norfolk receives 3.3 inches (85 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Atlantic City or Norfolk in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Atlantic City as well as Norfolk. Most visitors come to Atlantic City for the beaches during these months.

Atlantic City is cooler than Norfolk in the spring. The daily temperature in Atlantic City averages around 51°F (10°C) in April, and Norfolk fluctuates around 58°F (14°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Norfolk. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Atlantic City this time of the year. In the spring, Atlantic City often gets less sunshine than Norfolk. Atlantic City gets 217 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Norfolk receives 253 hours of full sun.

Atlantic City usually gets more rain in April than Norfolk. Atlantic City gets 3.2 inches (82 mm) of rain, while Norfolk receives 2.7 inches (69 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Norfolk and Atlantic City