A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Boston vs. Santa Monica for Attractions, Beaches, Families, and Food

Should you visit Boston or Santa Monica?

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 Santa Monica. 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 classic, proud, and loyal city. Travelers will also find plenty of sights and attractions here, as it's a big city that attracts lots of visitors. Boston is a beautiful place to visit, too. This destination also has one of those special and quaint feelings. And you can't forget about the museums, theater, and nightlife. See Boston travel costs.

Santa Monica

Santa Monica is a active, lively, and funfilled town. It's also known for food, beaches, and shopping. See Santa Monica travel costs.

Boston and Santa Monica: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Boston or Santa Monica?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Boston than Santa Monica. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Boston is very popular for its museums and attractions, theatre productions, music, historical sights, christmas markets, big city activities, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere, while Santa Monica attracts visitors for its beaches and shopping. Santa Monica is more touristy than Boston and is known for its active lifestyle and fun-filled activities. Boston is famous for its enthusiastic sports fans, influential history, beautiful parks, and world-class universities. It is also well known for The Freedom Trail.

How is Boston different from Santa Monica?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Boston is an amazing city to visit for its sights and museums. Also, Santa Monica is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its museums and history.

The museums, monuments, and landmarks in Boston are among the most recognizable in the world. 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.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Santa Monica. There's a thriving arts scene and a number of museums around town. Check out the Museum of Flying, the California Heritage Museum, or the Santa Monica History Museum.

Is Boston or Santa Monica Better for Theater?

Boston is notable for its theatre productions. However, Santa Monica is not a theatre destination.

While in town, many visitors enjoy seeing a show in Boston. 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.

Santa Monica is not a theatre destination.

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

Dining out at restaurants in both Boston and Santa Monica can be an enjoyable experience.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Boston makes for a great culinary experience. 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.

Santa Monica has a huge number of terrific restaurants. You'll find a diversity of restaurants in the area, many of which make use of the town's many farmer's markets. The restaurant scene has a beachy vibe with a lot of outdoor dining opportunities. There are also a range of cuisines to choose from such as Mexican, Italian, casual, and upscale.

Is Boston or Santa Monica Better for Nightlife?

Evening events are superb in both Boston and Santa Monica.

Boston has plenty to do after the sun goes down. 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.

Santa Monica has a lively atmosphere and nightlife is popular here. There's a relaxed and laid back vibe to the nightlife scene. Many venues offer outdoor seating and live music in a casual setting. You can hang out on a patio and enjoy the California climate while you sip cold drinks and the beach town atmosphere.

Is Boston or Santa Monica Better for Music?

Boston is a popular place for its live music scene. However, Santa Monica is not a live music destination.

The music scene in Boston is active and vibrant. Popular music venues include Lizard Lounge, Blue Hills Bank Pavilion, and The Middle East.

Santa Monica is not a live music destination.

Is Boston or Santa Monica Better for Beaches?

Santa Monica is an unbeatable place for its beaches. However, Boston is a mediocre city for the beach.

Santa Monica offers stunning beaches that attract visitors from around the world. Santa Monica Beach is large and lined with bike trails. It's also filled with activity and you'll find many water sports, beach volleyball, and surfing in the area. There's also the famous Santa Monica Pier, which has an amusement park aquarium, Ferris wheal, dining, and shopping.

You can check out the beach in Boston. There are a few urban beaches in the greater Boston area that you can explore on a nice day.

Is Boston or Santa Monica Better for its Old Town?

Boston is an amazing city to visit for its old town. However, Santa Monica does not have a historic old town.

Boston offers visitors a world-class historical old town to explore. 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.

Santa Monica does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Boston or Santa Monica?

Santa Monica is notable for shopping. Also, Boston is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its shopping opportunities.

Santa Monica is an extremely popular place for shoppers. It's easy to pass the time shopping in Santa Monica. There are independent vendors, fashion boutiques, and art galleries. Head to Montana Avenue or Main Street for some of the best shopping.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting 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.

Is Boston or Santa Monica More Beautiful?

Boston is a popular place for its scenery and beauty. However, Santa Monica is not a destination known for its beauty.

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

Santa Monica is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Boston or Santa Monica Better for Families?

Both Boston and Santa Monica are amazing family-friendly destinations.

With a huge array of activities for kids, Boston is very family-friendly. 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.

As it has a large number of activities for kids, Santa Monica is a very family-friendly destination. Many families spend their days hanging out on the beaches, soaking up the sun, and even trying to surf. There's a boardwalk as well as bike paths that are perfect for people watching. You should also check out the Pacific Park on the Santa Monica Pier, which is a thrilling amusement park.

Is Boston or Santa Monica Better for Couples?

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

Santa Monica is a very popular place to visit for couples. Fun days on the beach, peaceful walks at sunset, and a wild nightlife scene make this the perfect couples destination for couples who enjoy activity and excitement.

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 Santa Monica Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Both Boston and Santa Monica are nice destinations for backpackers.

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

Plenty of budget travelers visit Santa Monica. There's no shortage of activities in the area, whether you're into surfing, partying, or sunbathing. There's also at least one hostel that's great for budget travelers and backpackers.

Is Boston or Santa Monica Better for Students?

Boston is an amazing city to visit for students. However, Santa Monica is not popular with students.

Many students frequent 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.

Santa Monica is not popular with students.

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

Boston is an amazing city to visit for its public transit. Also, Santa Monica is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for times when you don't have a car.

Public transit in Boston is top-notch. There's the T, which is the subway, as well as a trolley, bus, and water transportation system.

The public transit in Santa Monica can get you to most places easily. The Metro E Line connects the city to downtown Los Angeles. There's also the Big Blue Bus as well the Santa Monica Circuit, which are small electric carts that offer free rides between Wilshire Boulevard and Marine Street, and from the ocean to Fifth Street.

Is Boston or Santa Monica a more walkable city?

Boston is an amazing city to visit for its high level of walkability. Also, Santa Monica is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its ease of walking around.

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

Santa Monica is a very walkable destination. The city is very walkable, particularly in the more touristy areas.

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

Should I spend more time in Santa Monica or Boston?

How long in Boston or Santa Monica?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Boston and Santa Monica. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Boston than in Santa Monica. Usually, 3-5 days is a good amount of time for Boston, and 1-3 days is enough time in Santa Monica.

Families should spend more time in Boston than Santa Monica. 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 Santa Monica. 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 Santa Monica 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.

One day in Boston or Santa Monica?

Each neighborhood in Boston has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

Many travelers enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the destination of Santa Monica. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. One day is often enough time to do most activities.

A weekend in Boston or Santa Monica?

Boston is a fun place to experience. Visiting the old town is also a must. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. Lots of people come for the museums. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring.

Santa Monica is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. Don't miss the beaches, as that's what most people do. 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 Santa Monica?

Each neighborhood in Boston has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Plenty of people spend five days in the area when traveling. Lots of people come for the museums. So, five days is just the right amount of time to spend here.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Santa Monica. Don't miss the beaches, as that's what most people do. Most people come for the beaches. 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 Santa Monica?

Boston is a popular place to visit. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the funfilled destination of Santa Monica. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting 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 Romantic Tours for Couples in United States of America, and The Best Polar Tours & Cruises in United States of America.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Boston and Santa Monica, we can see that Boston is more expensive. And not only is Santa Monica much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Santa Monica would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Santa Monica 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 Santa Monica.

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

Which is Bigger, Boston or Santa Monica?

Boston has a larger population, and is about 7 times larger than the population of Santa Monica. When comparing the sizes of Boston and Santa Monica, 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 Santa Monica?

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 Boston or Santa Monica in the Summer?

Both Santa Monica and Boston are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The beaches, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Boston this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Santa Monica for the beaches and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Boston is around the same temperature as Santa Monica. Typically, the summer temperatures in Boston in July average around 73°F (23°C), and Santa Monica averages at about 70°F (21°C).

In July, Boston usually receives more rain than Santa Monica. Boston gets 2.9 inches (74 mm) of rain, while Santa Monica receives 0 inches (0 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Boston or Santa Monica in the Autumn?

Both Santa Monica and Boston during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Boston for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, many visitors come to Santa Monica in the autumn for the shopping scene.

In October, Boston is generally much colder than Santa Monica. Daily temperatures in Boston average around 54°F (12°C), and Santa Monica fluctuates around 67°F (20°C).

Boston usually gets more rain in October than Santa Monica. Boston gets 3.3 inches (84 mm) of rain, while Santa Monica receives 0.2 inches (6 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Boston or Santa Monica in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Boston and Santa Monica. Many visitors come to Boston in the winter for the museums, the Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Santa Monica for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Boston can get quite cold in the winter. Boston is much colder than Santa Monica in the winter. The daily temperature in Boston averages around 29°F (-2°C) in January, and Santa Monica fluctuates around 57°F (14°C).

In January, Boston usually receives more rain than Santa Monica. Boston gets 3.4 inches (87 mm) of rain, while Santa Monica receives 0.7 inches (17 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Boston or Santa Monica in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Boston as well as Santa Monica. Most visitors come to Boston for the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty during these months. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Santa Monica because of the beaches.

In the spring, Boston is much colder than Santa Monica. Typically, the spring temperatures in Boston in April average around 48°F (9°C), and Santa Monica averages at about 61°F (16°C).

Boston usually gets more rain in April than Santa Monica. Boston gets 3.5 inches (89 mm) of rain, while Santa Monica receives 0.2 inches (4 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Santa Monica and Boston