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

Should you visit Atlantic City or Richmond?

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 Richmond. 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.

Richmond

Richmond is a historical, growing, and friendly city. It's also known for shopping, museums, and nightlife. See Richmond travel costs.

Atlantic City and Richmond: 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
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for students
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less popular with backpackers


Is there more to do in Atlantic City or Richmond?

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

How is Atlantic City different from Richmond?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Atlantic City
Richmond

Richmond 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 Richmond. The city has a long history which you can learn about at one of the many museums. There's the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts, the Virginia Museum of History and Culture, and the Black History Museum. There are also landmarks and historical homes.

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 Richmond? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Atlantic City
Richmond

Foodies will find both Atlantic City and Richmond both to be notable 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.

Richmond has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. The food scene has been growing around town, and there are food halls and local restaurants that serve diverse and interesting dishes. You'll find Indian, Asian, and European restaurants in addition to local classics.

Is Atlantic City or Richmond Better for Nightlife?

Atlantic City
Richmond

Atlantic City is a world-class destination for its evening party scene. Also, Richmond is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for nightlife.

People head to Atlantic City just to party. 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.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Richmond. You'll find diverse bars and clubs around town. Pubs are usually laid back with a relaxed atmosphere. You'll also find live music that includes bluegrass, country, and jazz.

Is Atlantic City or Richmond Better for Resorts?

Atlantic City
Richmond

Atlantic City is notable for its resorts. However, Richmond is not a resort destination.

Vacationers can choose from a number of terrific resorts in Atlantic City. 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.

Richmond is not a resort destination.


Is Atlantic City or Richmond Better for Beaches?

Atlantic City
Richmond

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

Many people head to Atlantic City to enjoy the beach. 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.

Richmond is not a beach destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Atlantic City or Richmond?

Atlantic City
Richmond

Shopping is a popular activity in both Richmond 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 Richmond. You'll find shopping malls and shopping centers around town, but there are also eclectic shopping streets and boutique outlets.

Is Atlantic City or Richmond Better for Families?

Atlantic City
Richmond

Richmond 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 Richmond. The Children's Museum of Richmond offers hands-on exhibits that will keep young ones entertained. Another fun option is the Science Museum of Virginia. The city also has parks and outdoor places to explore as well as playgrounds and 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 Richmond Better for Couples?

Atlantic City
Richmond

Atlantic City and Richmond 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.

Richmond makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Kayaking or tubing on the James River is a great activity for couples. There are also museums and many restaurants that are perfect for a date night.

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

Atlantic City
Richmond

Atlantic City is very good for backpackers. However, Richmond is a mediocre city for backpackers and budget travelers.

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

Richmond is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. It's not a popular backpacker destination, and most people breeze through town.

Is Atlantic City or Richmond Better for Students?

Atlantic City
Richmond

Richmond is a good destination for students. However, Atlantic City is not popular with students.

Richmond is popular with students. There are a couple of colleges and universities in town such as Virginia Commonwealth University.

Atlantic City is not popular with students.


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

Atlantic City
Richmond

Atlantic City is very good for its public transit. However, Richmond is a mediocre city for times when you don't have a car.

Atlantic City has a few 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 mostly limited in Richmond. There are buses around town, but the availability and reliability is limited.

Is Atlantic City or Richmond a more walkable city?

Atlantic City
Richmond

Atlantic City is notable for its ease of walking around. Also, Richmond is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its walkability.

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

Richmond is somewhat walkable. There are some walkable neighborhoods such as the Fan and Museum District, but most people prefer to get around by car.

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

Should I spend more time in Richmond or Atlantic City?

How long in Atlantic City or Richmond?

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

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

Couples should spend more time in Atlantic City than Richmond. 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 Richmond 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 Richmond? Ideal Length of Stay
    Atlantic City 1-3 
    Richmond 1-2

One day in Atlantic City or Richmond?

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 growing destination of Richmond. 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 Richmond?

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 Richmond. 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 Richmond?

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 historical destination of Richmond. 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 Richmond?

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 Richmond. 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, Richmond 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
    Richmond Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Atlantic City $190
    Richmond $176

The average daily cost (per person) in Atlantic City is $190, while the average daily cost in Richmond is $176. 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 Richmond in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Atlantic City $73
    Richmond $101
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Atlantic City $146
    Richmond $202
Compare Hotels in Atlantic City and Richmond

Looking for a hotel in Atlantic City or Richmond? 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 Richmond


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 Richmond Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Atlantic City $40
    Richmond $72

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Richmond

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Richmond:

  • Richmond Airport (RIC) to Richmond city - Arrival Private Transfer: $175
  • Richmond City to Richmond Airport (RIC) - Departure Private Transfer: $175

Is it cheaper to fly into Atlantic City or Richmond?

Prices for flights to both Richmond 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
    Richmond $36

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Richmond

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

  • Church Hill Food Tour: $89
  • Trendy Carytown Food Tour: $89
  • The Carytown Food Tour with Discover Richmond Tours: $90
  • Church Hill Food Tour with Discover Richmond Tours: $90
  • Arts District Food Tour in Richmond with Discover Richmond: $90
  • Delicious Pizza & Ice Cream Tour of Richmond: $94
  • Arts District Walking Food Tour: $99

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Atlantic City $44
    Richmond $13

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 - Sunset Cruise: $35
  • OC Bay Hopper - Assateague Island 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 Richmond

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

  • Scavenger Hunt Adventure in Richmond by Wacky Walks: $10
  • Scavenger Hunt Adventure in Richmond by Crazy Dash: $10
  • Scavenger Hunt Adventure in Richmond by 3Quest Challenge: $10
  • The Haunted History of Richmond tour: $25
  • Uncivil Wards History Tour: $25
  • The Church Hill tour with Historian Jane: $25
  • Shadows of Shockoe Ghost Tour: $26
  • Haunted Capitol Hill Ghost Tour: $27
  • Church Hill Chillers Ghost Tour: $27
  • Phantoms of Franklin Ghost Tour: $27
  • Creepy Tales on Campus Ghost Tour: $27
  • Specters & Shades of Court End Ghost Tour: $27

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

Sample the Local Flavors in Richmond

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

  • Richmond Virginia Bar Crawl: $15
  • Richmond Ghosts Boos and Booze Haunted Pub Crawl: $30
  • Richmond Ghosts Boos and Booze Haunted Pub Crawl : $37
  • Richmond Craft Brewery Crawl By Junket: $86
  • Brewery Tour of Richmond, VA: $90


When comparing the travel costs between Atlantic City and Richmond, 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 Richmond Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Atlantic City or Richmond?

Richmond has a larger population, and is about 5 times larger than the population of Atlantic City. When comparing the sizes of Atlantic City and Richmond, 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 Richmond?

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 Richmond in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Atlantic City and Richmond. Many travelers come to Atlantic City for the beaches and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Richmond in the summer for the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Atlantic City is generally around the same temperature as Richmond. Daily temperatures in Atlantic City average around 75°F (24°C), and Richmond fluctuates around 78°F (26°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Richmond this time of the year. In Atlantic City, it's very sunny this time of the year. Atlantic City usually receives less sunshine than Richmond during summer. Atlantic City gets 273 hours of sunny skies, while Richmond receives 305 hours of full sun in the summer.

Richmond receives a lot of rain in the summer. Atlantic City gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In July, Atlantic City usually receives less rain than Richmond. Atlantic City gets 4.4 inches (112 mm) of rain, while Richmond receives 5 inches (128 mm) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Atlantic City 75°F (24°C) 
    Richmond 78°F (26°C)

Should I visit Atlantic City or Richmond in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Atlantic City as well as Richmond. Many visitors come to Atlantic City in the autumn for the shopping scene. Also, most visitors come to Richmond for the shopping scene during these months.

Atlantic City is cooler than Richmond in the autumn. The daily temperature in Atlantic City averages around 56°F (13°C) in October, and Richmond fluctuates around 59°F (15°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Richmond. In the autumn, Atlantic City often gets less sunshine than Richmond. Atlantic City gets 197 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Richmond receives 221 hours of full sun.

Atlantic City usually gets less rain in October than Richmond. Atlantic City gets 2.6 inches (67 mm) of rain, while Richmond receives 3.5 inches (90 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Atlantic City 56°F (13°C) 
    Richmond 59°F (15°C)

Should I visit Atlantic City or Richmond in the Winter?

Both Richmond and Atlantic City are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Atlantic City for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Richmond because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

The weather in Richmond can be very cold. Atlantic City can be very cold during winter. In the winter, Atlantic City is much colder than Richmond. Typically, the winter temperatures in Atlantic City in January average around 31°F (-0°C), and Richmond averages at about 36°F (2°C).

Atlantic City usually receives less sunshine than Richmond during winter. Atlantic City gets 146 hours of sunny skies, while Richmond receives 169 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Atlantic City usually receives around the same amount of rain as Richmond. Atlantic City gets 3.4 inches (87 mm) of rain, while Richmond receives 3.2 inches (83 mm) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Atlantic City 31°F (-0°C) 
    Richmond 36°F (2°C)

Should I visit Atlantic City or Richmond in the Spring?

Both Richmond and Atlantic City during the spring are popular places to visit. The spring months attract visitors to Atlantic City because of the beaches.

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

In Richmond, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Atlantic City. In the spring, Atlantic City often gets less sunshine than Richmond. Atlantic City gets 217 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Richmond receives 265 hours of full sun.

Atlantic City usually gets more rain in April than Richmond. Atlantic City gets 3.2 inches (82 mm) of rain, while Richmond receives 3 inches (75 mm) of rain this time of the year.


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

Typical Weather for Richmond and Atlantic City

Atlantic City Richmond
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 31°F (-0°C) 3.4 inches (87 mm) 36°F (2°C) 3.2 inches (83 mm)
Feb 33°F (1°C) 2.5 inches (64 mm) 39°F (4°C) 3.2 inches (80 mm)
Mar 42°F (6°C) 4.6 inches (116 mm) 49°F (9°C) 3.6 inches (92 mm)
Apr 51°F (10°C) 3.2 inches (82 mm) 58°F (14°C) 3 inches (75 mm)
May 61°F (16°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm) 67°F (19°C) 3.8 inches (98 mm)
Jun 70°F (21°C) 2 inches (50 mm) 74°F (24°C) 3.6 inches (92 mm)
Jul 75°F (24°C) 4.4 inches (112 mm) 78°F (26°C) 5 inches (128 mm)
Aug 74°F (23°C) 4.6 inches (116 mm) 77°F (25°C) 4.4 inches (113 mm)
Sep 67°F (19°C) 3.4 inches (87 mm) 71°F (21°C) 3.3 inches (85 mm)
Oct 56°F (13°C) 2.6 inches (67 mm) 59°F (15°C) 3.5 inches (90 mm)
Nov 46°F (8°C) 2.8 inches (71 mm) 50°F (10°C) 3.2 inches (81 mm)
Dec 36°F (2°C) 3 inches (76 mm) 41°F (5°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm)