A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Cleveland vs. Sonoma for Food, Couples, Attractions, and Nightlife

Should you visit Cleveland or Sonoma?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Cleveland or Sonoma, this travel comparison, which includes costs, can help. The overall cost of travel is usually a consideration when deciding where to go next, and the cost comparison down below can help you decide based on the average prices from other travelers along with your own travel budget.

Cleveland

Cleveland is a authentic, under-rated, and diverse city. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and live music. See Cleveland travel costs.

Sonoma

Sonoma is a serene, relaxing, and scenic county. Sonoma is considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. Other reasons to visit include shopping, nightlife, and food. See Sonoma travel costs.

Cleveland and Sonoma: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Family-friendly
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for food
  • Less popular with couples
Pros
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Nice resorts
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Known for its beauty
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights


Is there more to do in Cleveland or Sonoma?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Sonoma than Cleveland, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Sonoma is better known for its food, nightlife, resorts, beaches, hiking, shopping, and impressive beauty, while Cleveland is more popular for its museums and attractions and music. Sonoma is more touristy than Cleveland and is known for its world-class winemaking and sustainable agriculture. Also, Sonoma is famous for Buena Vista Winery. Cleveland is well known for being the home to "rock 'n roll" as well as its friendly and hard working people.

How is Cleveland different from Sonoma?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Cleveland or Sonoma?

Cleveland
Sonoma

Cleveland is a great city for its historical sights. However, Sonoma is not known for its sights and museums.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into Cleveland. There are diverse museums around town such as the Cleveland Museum of Art, the Museum of Contemporary Art (moCa), and the Great Lakes Science Center. Music lovers will appreciate a visit to the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame.

Sonoma offers a handful of options for museums and historical sights. While most people don't think of museums when they think of Sonoma, there are actually some interesting local options. The California Indian Museum, the Cotati Museum, and the Depot Park Museum are also local are fascinating.


Is the Food Better in Cleveland or Sonoma? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Cleveland
Sonoma

Sonoma is an amazing county to visit for its restaurants. However, Cleveland is lacking in good options for its restaurant scene.

Known for it's food and restaurant scene, Sonoma is always at the top of any foodie's travel list. Although wine may be the first thing you think about, the region is also filled with farm-to-table restaurants and award-winning dining options. The food is almost always fresh and local. You can sample many local ingredients such as vegetables, cheeses, olive oils, and fish.

You'll find the standard options when it comes to food in Cleveland. Casual dining with comfort food is the way most residents prefer to eat. There are local foods that have made a name for themselves such as gourmet hot dogs and deli sandwiches. The food is also influenced by the city's German, Irish, Polish, and Italian roots. Pierogis, bratwurst, and chicken paprikash are all common.

Is Cleveland or Sonoma Better for Nightlife?

Cleveland
Sonoma

Sonoma is a very popular place for nightlife. Also, Cleveland is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for nightlife and partying.

Sonoma has a large number of nightlife venues. Lounges, wine bars, and live music venues offer a variety of activities for visitors during the evening hours.

Cleveland has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. Breweries have become a popular nighttime activity. There are also comedy clubs, music venues, and several theaters.

Is Cleveland or Sonoma Better for Music?

Cleveland
Sonoma

Cleveland is a great city for its music scene. However, Sonoma is not a live music destination.

Cleveland has a thriving music scene. Home to the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame, it has long been a destination for music enthusiasts. There are many independent music venues and it's the perfect place to catch a show.

Sonoma is not a live music destination.


Is Cleveland or Sonoma Better for Resorts?

Cleveland
Sonoma

Sonoma is a very popular place for its luxury resorts. However, Cleveland is not a resort destination.

Sonoma is a popular resort destination that attracts visitors from everywhere. Spa hotels, charming inns, and beautiful resorts all offer a variety of options for visitors.

Cleveland is not a resort destination.

Is Cleveland or Sonoma Better for Beaches?

Cleveland
Sonoma

Sonoma is a very popular place for its beaches. However, Cleveland is not a beach destination.

You'll have a great beach vacation in Sonoma. The county has a coastline that includes several great beaches as well as rocky shoreline. The beaches include secluded coves and picturesque cliffs as well as sand dunes and sandy beaches.

Cleveland is not a beach destination.

Is Cleveland or Sonoma Better for Hiking?

Cleveland
Sonoma

Sonoma is a very popular place for its hiking trails. However, Cleveland is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors explore the nearby hiking trails while visiting Sonoma. In between wine tastings you can explore the area's stunning natural beauty. There are hikes through the vineyards, along the coast, or through forested parks. Some of the best hikes are found in Jack London State Historic Park, Sugarloaf State Park, and Armstrong Woods State Park.

Cleveland is not a hiking destination.


Is the Shopping Better in Cleveland or Sonoma?

Cleveland
Sonoma

Sonoma is a very popular place for shopping. Also, Cleveland is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its shopping opportunities.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Sonoma. You'll find a range of local vendors in the area, selling everything from jewelry to art, home decor, and olive oil.

Cleveland offers some nice shopping areas. Large shopping malls offer plenty of selection. There's also West Side Market, which is the oldest public market in the city. Other interesting shopping areas include Little Italy and the Cleveland Flea.

Is Cleveland or Sonoma More Beautiful?

Cleveland
Sonoma

Sonoma is an amazing county to visit for its scenery and beauty. However, Cleveland is not a destination known for its beauty.

Sonoma is considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. The lined vineyards are strikingly beautiful and the setting offers stunning viewpoints and a serene beauty.

Cleveland is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Cleveland or Sonoma Better for Families?

Cleveland
Sonoma

Cleveland and Sonoma are both notable destinations for the whole family.

Cleveland is a family-friendly city. Kid-friendly activities in the area include the Children’s Museum of Cleveland, the Great Lakes Science Center, and the Cleveland Museum of Natural History. There's also the Cleveland Metroparks Zoo as well as the smaller Akron Zoo.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Sonoma. While most people think immediately of wine tours, there's actually a lot more to Sonoma County. Kids will enjoy the many outdoor activities in the area, which include beaches, parks, wildlife viewing, and more. There's also horseback riding and even ziplining opportunities.


Is Cleveland or Sonoma Better for Couples?

Cleveland
Sonoma

Sonoma is an amazing county to visit for romance. However, Cleveland is lacking in good options for its romantic activities.

Sonoma has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. It has long been a favorite honeymoon destination for couples who come for the vineyards and wine tours. There are also charming hotels, award winning restaurants, and beautiful beaches.

Most people don't think of Cleveland as a couple's destination. There are several romantic date night activities like boat rides on Lake Erie or dining at a nice restaurant.

Is Cleveland or Sonoma Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Cleveland
Sonoma

Cleveland is adequate for times when you don't have a car. However, Sonoma is not known for its public transit.

Public transit is mostly limited in Cleveland. There are bus, trolley, and train lines through the city, but a car is the most efficient way to get around.

Public transit is limited or non-existant in Sonoma. While there are buses, they are almost never used by tourists. There is the Sonoma Valley Wine Trolley which you should purchase tickets for in advance.

Is Cleveland or Sonoma a more walkable city?

Cleveland
Sonoma

Cleveland is adequate for its ease of walking around. However, Sonoma is not known for its walkability.

Cleveland is generally not a very walkable city. While some neighborhoods are more walkable than others (Downtown, Ohio City and Buckeye - Shaker), most visitors need a car to easily access everything they wish to do.

Sonoma is not a walkable city. You really must have a car to get around the area and explore it efficiently.


For even more information, also check out Is Cleveland Worth Visiting? and Is Sonoma Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Sonoma or Cleveland?

How long in Cleveland or Sonoma?

It's fun to spend time in either Cleveland or Sonoma. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Sonoma due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Cleveland, and 2-4 days is enough time in Sonoma.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Sonoma than Cleveland 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 Sonoma.


  • How many days in Cleveland or Sonoma? Ideal Length of Stay
    Cleveland 1-3 
    Sonoma 2-4

One day in Cleveland or Sonoma?

Many travelers enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the destination of Cleveland. One day is often enough time to do most activities.

You'll find food and shopping around the county of Sonoma. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A weekend in Cleveland or Sonoma?

Cleveland 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.

You'll find shopping and nightlife around the relaxing destination of Sonoma. Hikers are also drawn to this area. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this county has to offer. This county offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Five days in Cleveland or Sonoma?

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

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the serene county of Sonoma. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. It's also a relaxing resort destination. Most people head to the area for the food. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.


A week in Cleveland or Sonoma?

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the authentic destination of Cleveland. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

Sonoma is a popular choice for travelers. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. 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. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 2-Week Tours from Los Angeles, The Best Family-Friendly Tours to United States of America, The Best Wildlife Tours to United States of America, and The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Sonoma or Cleveland?

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

  • Cleveland Prices
    USA Prices
    Sonoma Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Cleveland $158
    Sonoma $260

The average daily cost (per person) in Cleveland is $158, while the average daily cost in Sonoma is $260. 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 Cleveland and Sonoma in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Cleveland $75
    Sonoma $93
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Cleveland $150
    Sonoma $186
Compare Hotels in Cleveland and Sonoma

Looking for a hotel in Cleveland or Sonoma? 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 Cleveland


Hotels in Sonoma


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: Cleveland Hotel Prices and Sonoma Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Cleveland $19
    Sonoma $134
Typical Local Transportation Prices in Cleveland

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


  • Taxi to Airport
    $36

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Cleveland

Also for Cleveland, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Cleveland Hopkins Airport (CLE) to Cleveland - Round-Trip Private Transfer : $207
  • Cleveland to Cleveland Hopkins Airport (CLE) - Departure Private Transfer : $104
  • Private Arrival Transfer from Cleveland Airprot (CLE): $68
  • Private Departure Transfer to Cleveland Airport (CLE): $68

Is it cheaper to fly into Cleveland or Sonoma?

Prices for flights to both Sonoma and Cleveland 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
    Cleveland $62
    Sonoma $96
Typical Food Prices in Cleveland

For Cleveland, here are some examples of average food and meal prices for travelers:


  • Coffee
    $1.79
  • Sandwich
    $9.75
  • Large Pizza
    $15

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Cleveland

For Cleveland, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • West Side Market Food Tour: $53
  • Little Italy Neighborhood Food Tour of Cleveland: $79
  • Tremont Neighborhood Food Tour: $79
  • Ohio City Neighborhood Food Tour of Cleveland: $91

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Cleveland $40
    Sonoma $16

Tours and Activities in Cleveland

For Cleveland, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • Akron Secrets: Rubber City Exploration Game and Tour: $5.00
  • Cleveland Browns Football Game Ticket at Huntington Bank Field: $35
  • Cleveland Comedy City Tour: $39
  • Cleveland Downtown Self Guided Audio Walking Tour: $9.75
  • Cleveland Golf Cart City Tour: $40
  • Cleveland Guardians Baseball Game Ticket at Progressive Field: $39
  • Cleveland Highlights City Tour with Pickup: $275
  • Electric Bike Tour in Cleveland: $109
  • Experience the season with a scavenger hunt in Cleveland with Holly Jolly Hunt: $20
  • Exploring Cleveland with the Family - Walking Tour: $262
  • Ghost Tour of Cleveland with free Ghost Hunting Gear: $20
  • Heritage Walk: Scenic Guided Tour of Cleveland: $262

Tours and Activities in Sonoma

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

  • From Napa Valley Classic Sidecar Tour to 3 Wineries: $340
  • Sonoma Valley: Guided Winery Tour with Picnic Lunch: $137
  • Sonoma Valley: Wine Trolley Tasting Tour with Lunch: $135
  • Sonoma Plaza Walking Tour: $109

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Cleveland $45
    Sonoma $41
Typical Alcohol Prices in Cleveland

Some typical examples of the costs for nightlife and alcohol in Cleveland are as follows:


  • A Night of Shots
    $36

Sample the Local Flavors in Cleveland

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Cleveland:

  • Cleveland Brewery Golf Cart Tour Experience: $60


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

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


Which is Bigger, Cleveland or Sonoma?

Cleveland has a larger population, and is about 50 times larger than the population of Sonoma. When comparing the sizes of Cleveland and Sonoma, 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 Cleveland or Sonoma?

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 Cleveland or Sonoma in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Cleveland and Sonoma. The music scene and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Cleveland this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Sonoma for the beaches, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Cleveland is generally around the same temperature as Sonoma. Daily temperatures in Cleveland average around 75°F (24°C), and Sonoma fluctuates around 73°F (23°C).

Cleveland gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In July, Cleveland usually receives more rain than Sonoma. Cleveland gets 4 inches (101 mm) of rain, while Sonoma receives 0.1 inches (2 mm) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Cleveland 75°F (24°C) 
    Sonoma 73°F (23°C)

Should I visit Cleveland or Sonoma in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Cleveland as well as Sonoma. Many travelers come to Cleveland for the shopping scene and the music scene. Additionally, many visitors come to Sonoma in the autumn for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

Cleveland is cooler than Sonoma in the autumn. The daily temperature in Cleveland averages around 56°F (13°C) in October, and Sonoma fluctuates around 62°F (17°C).

Cleveland usually gets more rain in October than Sonoma. Cleveland gets 1.9 inches (49 mm) of rain, while Sonoma receives 1.3 inches (33 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Cleveland 56°F (13°C) 
    Sonoma 62°F (17°C)

Should I visit Cleveland or Sonoma in the Winter?

Both Sonoma and Cleveland are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Cleveland in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Sonoma for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Cleveland can get quite cold in the winter. In the winter, Cleveland is much colder than Sonoma. Typically, the winter temperatures in Cleveland in January average around 28°F (-2°C), and Sonoma averages at about 46°F (8°C).

In January, Cleveland usually receives less rain than Sonoma. Cleveland gets 1.5 inches (39 mm) of rain, while Sonoma receives 3.8 inches (96 mm) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Cleveland 28°F (-2°C) 
    Sonoma 46°F (8°C)

Should I visit Cleveland or Sonoma in the Spring?

Both Sonoma and Cleveland during the spring are popular places to visit. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Sonoma because of the beaches and the natural beauty.

In April, Cleveland is generally cooler than Sonoma. Daily temperatures in Cleveland average around 51°F (10°C), and Sonoma fluctuates around 56°F (13°C).

Cleveland usually gets more rain in April than Sonoma. Cleveland gets 2.8 inches (71 mm) of rain, while Sonoma receives 1.2 inches (31 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Cleveland 51°F (10°C) 
    Sonoma 56°F (13°C)

Typical Weather for Sonoma and Cleveland

Cleveland Sonoma
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 28°F (-2°C) 1.5 inches (39 mm) 46°F (8°C) 3.8 inches (96 mm)
Feb 30°F (-1°C) 1.5 inches (37 mm) 51°F (11°C) 2.7 inches (69 mm)
Mar 40°F (5°C) 1.9 inches (49 mm) 54°F (12°C) 2.7 inches (69 mm)
Apr 51°F (10°C) 2.8 inches (71 mm) 56°F (13°C) 1.2 inches (31 mm)
May 61°F (16°C) 2.6 inches (67 mm) 64°F (18°C) 0.2 inches (5 mm)
Jun 71°F (21°C) 2.5 inches (64 mm) 69°F (21°C) 0.1 inches (3 mm)
Jul 75°F (24°C) 4 inches (101 mm) 73°F (23°C) 0.1 inches (2 mm)
Aug 73°F (23°C) 2.4 inches (60 mm) 72°F (22°C) 0.1 inches (1 mm)
Sep 67°F (19°C) 3 inches (75 mm) 70°F (21°C) 0.3 inches (7 mm)
Oct 56°F (13°C) 1.9 inches (49 mm) 62°F (17°C) 1.3 inches (33 mm)
Nov 45°F (7°C) 2.2 inches (57 mm) 54°F (12°C) 2.8 inches (71 mm)
Dec 34°F (1°C) 2.2 inches (55 mm) 46°F (8°C) 2.7 inches (68 mm)