A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Durham vs. Niagara Falls for Families, Attractions, Couples, and Food

Should you visit Durham or Niagara Falls?

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 Durham and Niagara Falls can help you decide which place is right for you.

Durham

Durham is a sports oriented, diverse, and student-filled city. And you can't forget about the nightlife, food, and shopping. See Durham travel costs.

Niagara Falls

Niagara Falls is a impressive, iconic, and breathtaking city. With stunning beauty, Niagara Falls attracts visitors from all around. Other popular activities here include nightlife, food, and hiking. See Niagara Falls travel costs.

Durham and Niagara Falls: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Durham or Niagara Falls?

Visitors will generally find more to do in Niagara Falls than Durham. While Durham is larger than Niagara Falls, Niagara Falls has more sights, attractions, and activities for tourists. Niagara Falls is more popular for its hiking and impressive beauty, while Durham is known for its museums and attractions. Niagara Falls is more touristy than Durham and is known for the large volume of water that flows over it. It is also home to the Journey Behind the Falls. Durham is popular for its college town vibe as well as being the home of the famous Blue Devil basketball team.

How is Durham different from Niagara Falls?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Durham or Niagara Falls?

Durham is notable for its sights and museums. However, Niagara Falls is a mediocre city for its museums and history.

Durham offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. Duke University is one of the most popular destinations in town. There are several museums on campus as well as the famous Duke Chapel. Elsewhere in Durham there's the Durham Museum of Life and Science.

While most people don't head to Niagara Falls specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. The Niagara Falls History Museum is one of the best museums in the area. There are also more touristy museums and attractions that you can visit as well. There's also a butterfly conservancy that is worth checking out.

Is the Food Better in Durham or Niagara Falls? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Picking the best cuisine and restaurants between Durham and Niagara Falls can be difficult as they are each good in their own way.

There are many up and coming restaurants in the Durham area. Barbecue is a favorite around town. You'll also find plenty of restaurants that cater to the student population, particularly along Nineth Street near Duke's campus.

There are plenty of up and coming restaurants around Niagara Falls. It's an iconic Canadian destination so, of course, you should try all things Canadian while you're in town. Maple syrup, poutine, butter tart, and beavertail (fried dough) are all things that should be on your list. Also make sure you sample some of the local game meat.

Is Durham or Niagara Falls Better for Nightlife?

Both Durham and Niagara Falls are good when it comes to partying.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Durham. The younger population tends to hang out near campus and along Nineth Street. If you're looking for something less student oriented, head to downtown Durham.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Niagara Falls. There's a decent concentration of clubs, pubs, and bars around town that keep things fun late into the evening.

Is Durham or Niagara Falls Better for Hiking?

Niagara Falls is a well-known place for the nearby hiking options. However, Durham is not a hiking destination.

Niagara Falls is a popular spot for hiking. The nearby area is filled with hiking trails that let you escape into nature and enjoy impressive views.

Durham is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Durham or Niagara Falls?

Both Durham and Niagara Falls are good shopping destinations.

Many visitors go to Durham to go shopping. The Streets of Southpoint is the best mall in the area. Other shopping areas include Brightleaf Square and Nineth Street.

Plenty of visitors enjoy shopping while in Niagara Falls. You'll find touristy souvenir shops as well as outlets and malls nearby.

Is Durham or Niagara Falls More Beautiful?

Niagara Falls is a well-known place for its scenery and beauty. However, Durham is not a destination known for its beauty.

With stunning beauty, Niagara Falls attracts visitors from all around. It's an impressive sight and the Canadian side offers the best views. It's definitely something you should try and see at least once.

Durham is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Durham or Niagara Falls Better for Families?

Niagara Falls is an amazing city to visit for its family-friendly activities. Also, Durham is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

Niagara Falls is one of the most popular family destinations. The views and setting are spectacular, and kids will love the boat tours or taking a ride on the Whirlpool Aero Car. There's also an indoor waterpark, a butterfly conservatory, and plenty of nature to explore.

Durham is a family-friendly city. A highlight for kids is a visit to the Durham Museum of Life and Science. It has both an indoor and an outdoor section and brings science to life for families. There's also an impressive playground and climbing area. Other activities in town include the Notasium and Eno River State Park. If you plan ahead you could also organize a trip to the Duke Lemur Center.

Is Durham or Niagara Falls Better for Couples?

Niagara Falls is a well-known place for couples. Also, Durham is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for romance.

Niagara Falls is a very popular place to visit for couples. The setting has long brought to mind romance, and to this day couples still honeymoon at this iconic destination. There are boat tours, nature trails, luxury hotels, and even wineries to explore.

Durham is a nice destination for couples. Have a picnic at the Sarah P. Duke Gardens or spend the day hiking at Eno River State Park. In the evening there's a wonderful selection of restaurants around town. Then you can check out a show at the Durham Performing Arts Center or see a Durham Bulls game.

Is Durham or Niagara Falls Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Niagara Falls is very good for backpackers. However, Durham is not a good city for backpackers and budget travelers.

Niagara Falls is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. There's a hostel or two where you can stay for cheap and meet other travelers.

Durham is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. The student population means there are a number of parties and bars around town, but most backpackers overlook this city.

Is Durham or Niagara Falls Better for Students?

Durham is notable for students. However, Niagara Falls is not popular with students.

Durham is a very popular city for students and younger travelers. Duke University has a stunning campus with a world class garden. There's also nearby Nineth Street, which has shops, restaurants, and bars that are geared toward the student population.

Niagara Falls is not popular with students.

Is Durham or Niagara Falls Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Niagara Falls is very good for its public transit. However, Durham is not a good city for times when you don't have a car.

Niagara Falls has a few public transit options. There is a bus system through town.

Public transit is mostly limited in Durham. There are buses around town, but you really need a car to explore the area.

Is Durham or Niagara Falls a more walkable city?

Niagara Falls is very good for its ease of walking around. However, Durham is not a good city for its walkability.

Niagara Falls is a somewhat walkable city. Most of the attractions and close together by the falls, so it's relatively walkable.

Durham is generally not a very walkable city. Downtown Durham and a few areas near Duke University are the most walkable areas.

For even more information, also check out Is Durham Worth Visiting? and Is Niagara Falls Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Niagara Falls or Durham?

How long in Durham or Niagara Falls?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Durham and Niagara Falls. In our opinion, Niagara Falls has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Niagara Falls than Durham. In general, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Durham, and 2-3 days is enough time in Niagara Falls.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Niagara Falls than Durham 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 Niagara Falls.

One day in Durham or Niagara Falls?

Many travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the diverse destination of Durham. 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.

Many travelers enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the destination of Niagara Falls. 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 Durham or Niagara Falls?

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

Niagara Falls 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 Durham or Niagara Falls?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the sports oriented destination of Durham. 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Niagara Falls. 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 Durham or Niagara Falls?

You'll find food and shopping around the city of Durham. 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.

Travelers enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the impressive destination of Niagara Falls. This city 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 Sightseeing Tours in United States of America, The Best Cruise Tours and Packages in United States of America, The Best Sightseeing Tours in Canada, and The Best Camping Tours in Canada.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Durham or Niagara Falls?

Durham has a larger population, and is about 2 times larger than the population of Niagara Falls. When comparing the sizes of Durham and Niagara Falls, 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 Durham or Niagara Falls?

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 Durham or Niagara Falls in the Summer?

Both Niagara Falls and Durham are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Durham for the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Niagara Falls because of the hiking and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Durham is generally a little warmer than Niagara Falls. Daily temperatures in Durham average around 79°F (26°C), and Niagara Falls fluctuates around 23°C (74°F).

It's quite sunny in Niagara Falls. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Durham. Durham usually receives less sunshine than Niagara Falls during summer. Durham gets 259 hours of sunny skies, while Niagara Falls receives 306 hours of full sun in the summer.

It's quite rainy in Durham. In July, Durham usually receives more rain than Niagara Falls. Durham gets 5.1 inches (129 mm) of rain, while Niagara Falls receives 69 mm (2.7 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Durham or Niagara Falls in the Autumn?

Both Niagara Falls and Durham during the autumn are popular places to visit. The autumn months attract visitors to Durham because of the shopping scene. Furthermore, the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Niagara Falls this time of year.

Durham is a little warmer than Niagara Falls in the autumn. The daily temperature in Durham averages around 61°F (16°C) in October, and Niagara Falls fluctuates around 12°C (54°F).

It's quite sunny in Durham. In the autumn, Durham often gets more sunshine than Niagara Falls. Durham gets 211 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Niagara Falls receives 148 hours of full sun.

Durham usually gets more rain in October than Niagara Falls. Durham gets 2.8 inches (71 mm) of rain, while Niagara Falls receives 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Durham or Niagara Falls in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Durham and Niagara Falls. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Durham this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Niagara Falls for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Niagara Falls. It's quite cold in Durham in the winter. In the winter, Durham is much warmer than Niagara Falls. Typically, the winter temperatures in Durham in January average around 40°F (5°C), and Niagara Falls averages at about -4°C (26°F).

Durham usually receives more sunshine than Niagara Falls during winter. Durham gets 162 hours of sunny skies, while Niagara Falls receives 89 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Durham usually receives more rain than Niagara Falls. Durham gets 3.2 inches (82 mm) of rain, while Niagara Falls receives 52 mm (2 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Durham or Niagara Falls in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Durham as well as Niagara Falls. Additionally, many visitors come to Niagara Falls in the spring for the natural beauty.

In April, Durham is generally much warmer than Niagara Falls. Daily temperatures in Durham average around 60°F (16°C), and Niagara Falls fluctuates around 10°C (49°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Niagara Falls. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Durham this time of the year. In the spring, Durham often gets more sunshine than Niagara Falls. Durham gets 251 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Niagara Falls receives 203 hours of full sun.

Durham usually gets more rain in April than Niagara Falls. Durham gets 3.1 inches (78 mm) of rain, while Niagara Falls receives 63 mm (2.5 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Niagara Falls and Durham