A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Boston vs. Hope for Attractions, Families, Food, and Nightlife

Should you visit Boston or Hope?

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 Boston and Hope. 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.

Boston

Boston is a proud, loyal, and historic city. It's a large city with plenty of activites for visitors as well. Boston is a gorgeous place to visit. This is a quaint and attractive place to visit, too. Other reasons to visit include shopping, museums, and theater. See Boston travel costs.

Hope

Hope is a small, friendly, and local town. It's also known for hiking. See Hope travel costs.

Boston and Hope: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Numerous theater shows
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Popular beach
  • Scenic old town
  • Popular at Christmas
  • Known for Christmas markets
  • Known for its beauty
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Good public transit
  • Very walkable
  • Big city activities
  • Home to the Freedom Trail
Pros
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • Less popular for food
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Public transit not as usable
  • Less walkable


Is there more to do in Boston or Hope?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Boston. Although Boston and Hope are both popular with visitors, Boston has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Boston is more popular for its museums and attractions, theatre productions, food, nightlife, music, beaches, historical sights, shopping, christmas markets, big city activities, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere, while Hope is known for its hiking. Boston is more touristy than Hope and is popular for its enthusiastic sports fans, influential history, beautiful parks, and world-class universities. It is also home to The Freedom Trail. Hope is popular for its chainsaw carvings and being the filming location of "Rambo."

How is Boston different from Hope?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Hope and Boston. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Boston or Hope?

Boston
Hope

Boston is a world-class destination for its historical sights. However, Hope is not known for its sights and museums.

Travelers visit Boston from around the world to see its many world-famous attractions. The city itself feels like a living museum. It is famous for Faneuil Hall, the Museum of Fine Arts, the Isabelle Stewart Gardner Museum, the USS Constitution, as well as the many sites along the Freedom Trail. There are also many museums on the campuses of the world renowned universities in the city.

Hope offers a handful of options for museums and historical sights. You can check out Hopes Art Gallery, The Sunshine Valley Tashme Museum, or the Hope Museum.


Is Boston or Hope Better for Theater?

Boston
Hope

Boston is a great city for theatre. However, Hope is not a theatre destination.

Boston has a number of performance venues where you can see a variety of shows. The city has many historic, beautifully restored theaters where you can enjoy a show. Head to the theater district for some of the most famous venues.

Hope is not a theatre destination.

Is the Food Better in Boston or Hope? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Boston
Hope

Boston is a great city for its local flavors and cuisine. However, Hope is not known for its local cuisine and restaurants.

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in Boston. There are many local dishes that utilize fresh caught seafood and comfort food flavors. The cuisine also takes advantage of the city's Italian and Irish populations. Famous local foods include New England Clam Chowder, lobster rolls, and baked beans. You'll find hearty sandwiches and filling meals that warm your soul.

You'll find the standard options when it comes to food in Hope. There's a decent selection of casual restaurants with basic dishes and local cuisine.

Is Boston or Hope Better for Nightlife?

Boston
Hope

Boston is a great city for nightlife. However, Hope is not known for nightlife and partying.

The nightlife in Boston has something for everybody. The city is known for its breweries, craft beer, and vibrant university neighborhoods. It also hosts regular outdoor movies and world class sporting events. The nightlife scene is varied, with some areas catering to the student population and other areas focused on the professional or sport-loving crowds.

Most people don't head to Hope specifically for the nightlife scene, but you can find a few options. It's a small town but there are some local pubs and bars.


Is Boston or Hope Better for Music?

Boston
Hope

Boston is very good for live music. However, Hope is not a live music destination.

Music lovers will find a few good venues in Boston. Popular music venues include Lizard Lounge, Blue Hills Bank Pavilion, and The Middle East.

Hope is not a live music destination.

Is Boston or Hope Better for Beaches?

Boston
Hope

Boston is adequate for its beaches. However, Hope is not a beach destination.

Boston is a good spot to see the beach. There are a few urban beaches in the greater Boston area that you can explore on a nice day.

Hope is not a beach destination.

Is Boston or Hope Better for its Old Town?

Boston
Hope

Boston is a world-class destination for its historic old town. However, Hope does not have a historic old town.

The historic old town of Boston is revered around the world. Boston is famous for its Freedom Trail, which takes visitors around the city's rich history. The oldest parts of the city are known as Boston Proper and include the neighborhoods of Beacon Hill, Historic Downtown, the North End, and the West End.

Hope does not have a historic old town.


Is Boston or Hope Better for Hiking?

Boston
Hope

Hope is notable for the nearby hiking options. However, Boston is not a hiking destination.

Hope is a popular spot for hiking. There are a range of hikes in the area, like more challenging routes such as Hope Mountain and Wells Peak. For a more casual hike you can check out Rotary Trail, Thacker Marsh Trail, and the Othello Tunnels.

Boston is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Boston or Hope?

Boston
Hope

Boston is very good for shopping. However, Hope is not known for its shopping opportunities.

Plenty of visitors enjoy shopping while in Boston. Head to Back Bay for some of the best high end shops. There are luxury brands and boutique venues that sell local art or crafts.

If you're looking to go shopping, Hope has some nice offerings. It's a small town, but there are places to peak up anything you may have forgotten.

Is Boston or Hope More Beautiful?

Boston
Hope

Boston is very good for its scenery and beauty. However, Hope is not a destination known for its beauty.

Boston is a gorgeous place to visit. The history, architecture, and world renowned university campuses all give this city its unique beauty.

Hope is not a destination known for its beauty.


Is Boston or Hope Better for Families?

Boston
Hope

Boston is a world-class destination for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Hope is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its family-friendly activities.

Boston is one of the most popular family destinations. It's filled with history, but there are also many activities for kids who need a break from all of the historical stuff. Popular activities for all ages include the Museum of Science, the New England Aquarium, and exploring the waterfront, gardens, and parks around town.

Hope is a very kid-friendly city. Kids will love enjoying the outdoors just as much as the adults. You can also visit the Hope Museum or the Coquihalla Gorge.

Is Boston or Hope Better for Couples?

Boston
Hope

Hope is notable for romance. Also, Boston is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its romantic activities.

Hope is a very popular place to visit for couples. Couples who enjoy adventures and nature will love a few days in this beautiful area.

Boston makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Couples who enjoy history will enjoy exploring the city. Take a swan boat ride in the Public Garden and wander the unique route along the Freedom Trail. There are also many sporting and entertainment options around town.

Is Boston or Hope Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Boston
Hope

Hope is notable for backpackers. Also, Boston is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Backpackers come from all over to visit Hope. There are many camping and backpacking opportunities in the area.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Boston. Like most larger American cities, the city has a handful of hostels to choose from.


Is Boston or Hope Better for Students?

Boston
Hope

Boston is a world-class destination for its student-friendly activities. However, Hope is not popular with students.

Students come from all over the world to visit Boston. It is a city of students, with a number of world renowned universities located here including Harvard University, Boston College, and MIT. Many neighborhoods are filled with students and there are many student-centered activities around town including festivals and an active nightlife scene.

Hope is not popular with students.

Is Boston or Hope Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Boston
Hope

Boston is a world-class destination for times when you don't have a car. However, Hope is not known for its public transit.

With a huge network, the transit system in Boston can get you around easily. There's the T, which is the subway, as well as a trolley, bus, and water transportation system.

Public transit is limited or non-existant in Hope. There is no public transit in town.

Is Boston or Hope a more walkable city?

Boston
Hope

Boston is a world-class destination for its walkability. However, Hope is not known for its high level of walkability.

Boston is a very easy city to get around on foot. The many parks and compact neighborhoods are best explored on foot.

Hope is generally not very walkable. The town is relatively walkable, but you'll likely want to get into the surrounding area where most of the activities are.


For even more information, also check out Is Boston Worth Visiting? and Is Hope Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Hope or Boston?

How long in Boston or Hope?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Boston and Hope. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Boston than in Hope. Usually, 3-5 days is a good amount of time for Boston, and 2-3 days is enough time in Hope.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Boston than Hope 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 Boston.


  • How many days in Boston or Hope? Ideal Length of Stay
    Boston 3-5 
    Hope 2-3

One day in Boston or Hope?

Boston is a big city destination where you can fill many days. Visiting the old town is also a must. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

Many travelers enjoy the when visiting the destination of Hope. Hikers are also drawn to this area. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Boston or Hope?

Boston is a fun place to experience. Most people visit for the museums. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Hope is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Five days in Boston or Hope?

Boston is a historic big city where you can fill many days. This city offers something for everyone. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Plenty of people spend five days in the area when traveling. Five days is often enough time to do most activities.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Hope. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.


A week in Boston or Hope?

The traditional city of Boston offers food and shopping. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. 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.

Travelers enjoy the when visiting the friendly destination of Hope. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Photography Tours in United States of America, The Best Camping Tours in United States of America, The Best 10-Day Tours from Vancouver, and The Best Family-Friendly Tours to Canada.


Which place is cheaper, Hope or Boston?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations. These travel costs come from the actual spending of real travelers.

The average daily cost (per person) in Boston is $291, while the average daily cost in Hope is $47. 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 Boston and Hope in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Boston $166
    Hope $8.89
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Boston $332
    Hope $18
Compare Hotels in Boston and Hope

Looking for a hotel in Boston or Hope? 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 Boston


Hotels in Hope


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: Boston Hotel Prices and Hope Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Boston $37
    Hope -
Typical Local Transportation Prices in Boston

Some typical examples of transportation costs in Boston are as follows:


  • Taxi
    $35
  • Subway Daily Pass
    $9.00

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Boston

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Boston:

  • Round trip Airport Transfer: Boston Logan to Downton Boston : $300
  • Private Transfer from Boston Airport to Providence RI: $294
  • Flynn Cruise port Boston to Boston hotels - Round-Trip Private Transfer : $245
  • Private Luxury Airport Transfer from Boston Logan (BOS): $200
  • Private arrival OR departure transfer in Boston (hotel OR airport pick-up): $196
  • Private Transfer from Boston Logan Airport (BOS) to Newport Port: $192
  • Private Transfer from Newport Port to Boston Logan Airport (BOS) : $192
  • Private Transfer from Boston City Hotels to Newport Cruise Port: $192
  • Private Transfer from Newport Cruise Port to Boston city hotels: $192
  • Private Transfer in Boston (BOS) Airport/Home/Hotel/Work : $190
  • Boston Logan Airport (BOS) to Flynn Cruise Port - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $190
  • Boston Airport (BOS): Transfer to Flynn Cruise Port Boston: $184

Is it cheaper to fly into Boston or Hope?

Prices for flights to both Hope and Boston 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
    Boston $86
    Hope $38

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Boston

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

  • Self Guided "The North End Pizza, Cannoli and Picnic" Solo Walking Tour : $5.50
  • Morning Walks with Salem Food Tours: $34
  • Boston Freedom Trail History and Food Tour: $39
  • Freedom Trail History and Food Tour: $39
  • Pizza Beer and Paul Revere Tour: $65
  • Boston Pizza Lovers Food & History Walking Food Tour: $69
  • North End Pizza Walking Tour with 3 Slices & Cannoli: $69
  • 2-Hour Pasta Making Cooking Class With Local Chef in Boston: $75
  • North End Food Experience with Pizza, Meats & Cheese: $75
  • Pizza, Beer, and Paul Revere Tour: $75
  • City Cruises Harbor Buffet Lunch or Dinner Cruise: $89
  • Boston’s Politically Incorrect North End Food tour: $98

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Boston $33
    Hope -
Typical Entertainment Prices in Boston

Some typical examples of activities, tours, and entrance ticket prices in Boston are as follows:


  • Two Tickets to Celtics Game
    $101
  • Duck Tour
    $32

Tours and Activities in Boston

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

  • Boston Massachusetts Private Photography Tour: $130
  • Freedom Trail Walking Tour: $26
  • Salem Witch Tour: $80
  • "Ghosts of Boston" Walking Ghost Tour: $30
  • "Witch Trials" Walking Tour in Salem: $30
  • 1 Hour Boston Segway Tour: $69
  • 1 If By Land Walking Tours: $45
  • 1 or 2 Day Hop-On Hop-Off Trolley Tour of Boston With *20+ Stops: $48
  • 1692 Salem Day Tour: $35
  • 1692 Salem Night Walking Tour: $35
  • 2 Hour Boston Historical and Heritage Walking Tour: $5.00
  • 2-Day Niagara Falls USA Tour from Boston: $49

Tours and Activities in Hope

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Hope.

  • From Vancouver: 2-Day Kelowna Wine, Lake, and Farm Tour: $296
  • From Vancouver: 3-Day Tour to Manning Park, Nelson & Osoyoos: $379

For more ideas for your next trip, check out Free Things to Do in Boston, Must-See Monuments and Memorials In Boston, and The Best Things To Do in Boston with Kids.


Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Boston $27
    Hope $10

Sample the Local Flavors in Boston

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Boston:

  • Boston Bar Crawl Back Bay Beat Bar Craw: $15
  • Boos and Brews Haunted Pub Crawl: $29
  • Boston Haunted Pub Crawl: $35
  • Haunted Pub Crawl of Historic Pubs and Taverns: $35
  • 2 Hour Historic Pub Crawl in Boston: $35
  • Salem Booze and Brews Haunted Pub Crawl by US Ghost Adventures: $36
  • Boston Ghosts Boos and Brews Haunted Pub Crawl : $36
  • History Pub Crawl Tour Along the Freedom Trail: $56
  • Boston Freedom Trail History Pub Crawl Small-Group Tour: $60
  • Freedom Trail History Tour and Brewery Taste: $71
  • Sushi Making Class at a Local Brewery in Boston: $75
  • Sushi Making Class at a Local Distillery in Boston: $75


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Boston and Hope, we can see that Boston is more expensive. And not only is Hope much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Hope would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Hope 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 Boston would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Boston than you might in Hope.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Boston Expensive? and Is Hope Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Boston or Hope?

Boston has a larger population, and is about 130 times larger than the population of Hope. When comparing the sizes of Boston and Hope, 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 Boston or Hope?

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 Boston or Hope in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Boston as well as Hope. Many travelers come to Boston for the beaches, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Hope in the summer for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences.

Boston is a little warmer than Hope in the summer. The daily temperature in Boston averages around 73°F (23°C) in July, and Hope fluctuates around 18°C (64°F).

Boston usually gets more rain in July than Hope. Boston gets 2.9 inches (74 mm) of rain, while Hope receives 51 mm (2 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Boston 73°F (23°C) 
    Hope 18°C (64°F)

Should I visit Boston or Hope in the Autumn?

Both Hope and Boston are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Boston in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, most visitors come to Hope for the hiking trails and the shopping scene during these months.

In the autumn, Boston is a little warmer than Hope. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Boston in October average around 54°F (12°C), and Hope averages at about 10°C (51°F).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Hope. In October, Boston usually receives less rain than Hope. Boston gets 3.3 inches (84 mm) of rain, while Hope receives 156 mm (6.1 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Boston 54°F (12°C) 
    Hope 10°C (51°F)

Should I visit Boston or Hope in the Winter?

Both Hope and Boston during the winter are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Boston for the museums, the Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine during these months. Furthermore, the winter months attract visitors to Hope because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

The weather in Hope can be very cold. Boston can be very cold during winter. In January, Boston is generally much colder than Hope. Daily temperatures in Boston average around 29°F (-2°C), and Hope fluctuates around 3°C (37°F).

Hope gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Boston usually gets less rain in January than Hope. Boston gets 3.4 inches (87 mm) of rain, while Hope receives 201 mm (7.9 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Boston 29°F (-2°C) 
    Hope 3°C (37°F)

Should I visit Boston or Hope in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Boston and Hope. The spring months attract visitors to Boston because of the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty.

Boston is around the same temperature as Hope in the spring. The daily temperature in Boston averages around 48°F (9°C) in April, and Hope fluctuates around 9°C (49°F).

Hope receives a lot of rain in the spring. In April, Boston usually receives less rain than Hope. Boston gets 3.5 inches (89 mm) of rain, while Hope receives 114 mm (4.5 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Boston 48°F (9°C) 
    Hope 9°C (49°F)

Typical Weather for Hope and Boston

Boston Hope
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 29°F (-2°C) 3.4 inches (87 mm) 3°C (37°F) 201 mm (7.9 in)
Feb 30°F (-1°C) 3.7 inches (94 mm) 5°C (41°F) 164 mm (6.4 in)
Mar 38°F (4°C) 3.7 inches (95 mm) 7°C (44°F) 145 mm (5.7 in)
Apr 48°F (9°C) 3.5 inches (89 mm) 9°C (49°F) 114 mm (4.5 in)
May 58°F (15°C) 3.2 inches (82 mm) 12°C (54°F) 89 mm (3.5 in)
Jun 68°F (20°C) 3.1 inches (79 mm) 15°C (60°F) 67 mm (2.6 in)
Jul 73°F (23°C) 2.9 inches (74 mm) 18°C (64°F) 51 mm (2 in)
Aug 72°F (22°C) 3.2 inches (82 mm) 18°C (64°F) 53 mm (2.1 in)
Sep 64°F (18°C) 3.1 inches (79 mm) 15°C (59°F) 85 mm (3.4 in)
Oct 54°F (12°C) 3.3 inches (84 mm) 10°C (51°F) 156 mm (6.1 in)
Nov 45°F (7°C) 4.3 inches (108 mm) 6°C (43°F) 222 mm (8.7 in)
Dec 33°F (1°C) 3.9 inches (99 mm) 3°C (37°F) 217 mm (8.5 in)