A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Destin vs. Boston for Families, Food, Beaches, and Couples

Should you visit Destin or Boston?

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

Which city is more affordable and which is best for your travel style? If you're trying to figure out where to go next, comparing the travel costs between Destin and Boston can help you decide which place is right for you.

Destin

Destin is a peaceful, family-friendly, and beautiful beach town. Destin is a gorgeous place to visit. It's also known for food, beaches, and shopping. See Destin travel costs.

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. It's also known for nightlife, live music, and food. See Boston travel costs.

Destin and Boston: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Destin or Boston?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Boston. Although Destin and Boston 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, historical sights, christmas markets, big city activities, and quaint atmosphere, while Destin is known for its resorts and beaches. Destin is popular for its powdery sand and turquoise water, its kid-friendly environment, and its local waterfront seafood restaurants. Boston is popular for its enthusiastic sports fans, influential history, beautiful parks, and world-class universities. It is also home to The Freedom Trail.

How is Destin different from Boston?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Boston is terrific for its sights and museums. However, Destin does not have museums and landmarks.

Visitors will find world class museums and historical sights in Boston that are not to be missed. 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.

Destin does not have museums and landmarks.

Is Destin or Boston Better for Theater?

Boston is notable for theatre. However, Destin 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.

Destin is not a theatre destination.

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

Boston is notable for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Destin is not as famous, but is still a good beach town to visit for its restaurants.

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.

Destin has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. The area has great seafood including crab chowder, seafood gumbo, and fried fish. You can find wonderful local restaurants that have waterfront views and menus that feature freshly caught seafood. Many restaurants also have kid-friendly menus. During peak season, reservations are recommended.

Is Destin or Boston Better for Nightlife?

Boston is notable for nightlife. However, Destin is a mediocre beach town for nightlife and partying.

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.

Destin doesn't offer many options. The region is more popular as a family-friendly beach destination than it is for it's nightlife. Head to the Harbor area for the most lively nightlife.

Is Destin or Boston Better for Music?

Boston is very good for live music. However, Destin 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.

Destin is not a live music destination.

Is Destin or Boston Better for Resorts?

Destin is notable for its resorts. However, Boston is not a resort destination.

There are plenty of resorts in Destin to choose from. Popular options include the Sandestin Golf & Beach Resort, as well as Hilton Sandestin Beach, Golf Resort & Spa. Most of the accommodation in the area is in the form of condos that include a kitchen and separate bedrooms. Most of these complexes also have pools, hot tubs, and even kids clubs.

Boston is not a resort destination.

Is Destin or Boston Better for Beaches?

Destin is notable for its beaches. However, Boston is a mediocre city for the beach.

Many people visit Destin for it's beautiful beaches. This area is famous for its powdery white sand, beautiful blue waters, and calm waves. The beaches are large enough that they never get incredibly crowded, but you will find the largest crowds during the summer months. These beaches are particularly popular with families and seniors.

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 Destin or Boston Better for its Old Town?

Boston is terrific for its historic old town. However, Destin does not have a historic old town.

Boston has a unique history which comes to life in its historic area. 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.

Destin does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Destin or Boston?

Both Destin and Boston are good shopping destinations.

Destin is a great destination for shopping. In the shopping centers around town you'll find a number of unique boutique shops that are fun to explore. They have boutique-style beach clothes, local art, and any beach supplies that you may have forgotten.

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 Destin or Boston More Beautiful?

Destin and Boston both are comparable with their good scenery and beauty.

Destin is a gorgeous place to visit. With its powdery sand and the blue water of the Gulf of Mexico, this is a beautiful beach destination.

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

Is Destin or Boston Better for Families?

Boston is terrific for its family-friendly activities. Also, Destin is not as famous, but is still a good beach town to visit for its kid-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.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Destin is very family-friendly. The area has beautiful sandy beaches, calm waters, and plenty of activities for kids like Big Kahuna's Water Park. This is one of the more kid-friendly areas in Florida and many families return year after year with their kids. There are also many condos available for rent and kids can have their own room, kitchens are available for meal preparation, and there are washers and dryers to clean clothes. Many of these condo complexes also have kid-friendly pools

Is Destin or Boston Better for Couples?

Both Destin and Boston are good destinations to visit as a couple.

Destin is a nice destination for couples. For a relaxing beach vacation, this is a nice option for couples. A lot of the accommodation is in the form of condos, so it may not have the romantic resort vibe you're going for though. There are many great seafood restaurants and quiet beaches that have beautiful sunsets.

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 Destin or Boston Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Boston is very good for backpackers. However, Destin is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

Boston is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. Like most larger American cities, the city has a handful of hostels to choose from.

Destin is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

Is Destin or Boston Better for Students?

Boston is terrific for students. However, Destin is a mediocre beach town for its student-friendly activities.

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.

Destin is a decent spot for students. It is more a family-friendly destination than a spring break destination. If you're looking for a place to cut loose and blow off some steam, then there are better options in Florida.

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

Boston is terrific for its public transit. However, Destin is a mediocre beach town for times when you don't have a car.

The thorough and effecient public transit system of Boston can take you anywhere. There's the T, which is the subway, as well as a trolley, bus, and water transportation system.

Public transit is quite limited in Destin. There is almost no public transit so a car is essential. Some condo complexes do over golf carts to get around the grounds.

Is Destin or Boston a more walkable city?

Boston is terrific for its walkability. However, Destin is a mediocre beach town for its high level of walkability.

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

Destin is not a very walkable beach town. The area is very spread out and not walkable so you'll need a car to access restaurants and most forms of entertainment.

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

Should I spend more time in Boston or Destin?

How long in Destin or Boston?

In either Destin or Boston, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Destin than Boston because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 5-7 days is a good amount of time for Destin, and 3-5 days is enough time in Boston.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Boston than Destin 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 Destin or Boston?

Many travelers enjoy the shopping and food when visiting the destination of Destin. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

Boston is a bustling city that offers something for everyone. 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 one day exploring.

A weekend in Destin or Boston?

Destin is a great place to explore. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Boston is a great place to explore. Don't miss the museums, as that's what most people do. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Five days in Destin or Boston?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Destin. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. Most people come for the beaches. With all of its activities, you can easily fill five days here. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Boston. Don't miss the museums, as that's what most people do. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. With all of its activities, you can easily fill five days here. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A week in Destin or Boston?

Many travelers enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the beautiful destination of Destin. This beach town offers a variety of activities to choose from. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. If you have one week, this is a great place to go. This would be the perfect place to spend one week, as it has just the right amount of activities.

Travelers enjoy the museums and theater when visiting the historic big city of Boston. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most visitors spend time around the old town 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 Romantic Tours for Couples in United States of America, The Best Polar Tours & Cruises in United States of America, The Best Walking Tours in United States of America, and The Best Northern Lights Tours in Alaska.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Destin or Boston?

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

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 Destin or Boston in the Summer?

Both Boston and Destin are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Destin in the summer for the beaches and the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Boston for the beaches, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

Destin is a little warmer than Boston in the summer. The daily temperature in Destin averages around 82°F (28°C) in July, and Boston fluctuates around 73°F (23°C).

It's quite rainy in Destin. In July, Destin usually receives more rain than Boston. Destin gets 7.4 inches (189 mm) of rain, while Boston receives 2.9 inches (74 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Destin or Boston in the Autumn?

Both Boston and Destin during the autumn are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Destin for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area during these months. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Boston because of the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Destin is much warmer than Boston. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Destin in October average around 69°F (21°C), and Boston averages at about 54°F (12°C).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Destin. Destin usually gets more rain in October than Boston. Destin gets 4.2 inches (107 mm) of rain, while Boston receives 3.3 inches (84 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Destin or Boston in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Destin and Boston. The winter months attract visitors to Destin because of the shopping scene and the cuisine. Also, the museums, the Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine are the main draw to Boston this time of year.

It's quite cold in Boston in the winter. In January, Destin is generally much warmer than Boston. Daily temperatures in Destin average around 50°F (10°C), and Boston fluctuates around 29°F (-2°C).

Destin gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In January, Destin usually receives more rain than Boston. Destin gets 4.6 inches (117 mm) of rain, while Boston receives 3.4 inches (87 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Destin or Boston in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Destin as well as Boston. The beaches and the natural beauty are the main draw to Destin this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Boston for the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty.

Destin is much warmer than Boston in the spring. The daily temperature in Destin averages around 68°F (20°C) in April, and Boston fluctuates around 48°F (9°C).

Destin usually gets around the same amount of rain in April as Boston. Destin gets 3.4 inches (87 mm) of rain, while Boston receives 3.5 inches (89 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Boston and Destin