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

Should you visit Jacksonville or Newport?

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 Jacksonville and Newport. 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.

Jacksonville

Jacksonville is a vibrant, under-rated, and lively city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. It's also popular because of the shopping, museums, and nightlife. See Jacksonville travel costs.

Newport

Newport is a seaside, historical, and charming town. This is a charming small with plenty of activities, too. Newport offers plenty of beauty for visitors. It's also popular because of the food, beaches, and shopping. See Newport travel costs.

Jacksonville and Newport: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Popular beach
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with couples
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Popular beach
  • Scenic old town
  • Known for its beauty
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with backpackers


Is there more to do in Jacksonville or Newport?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Jacksonville. Although Jacksonville and Newport are popular destinations, Jacksonville has more sights and attractions for tourists. Jacksonville is very popular for its nightlife and big city activities, while Newport attracts visitors for its historical sights, small town charm, and impressive beauty. Newport is more touristy than Jacksonville and is known for its sailing regattas, its mansions along Bellevue Avenue, and its maritime history. Jacksonville is famous for its beautiful beaches and lively downtown area. It is also well known for Cummer Museum of Art and Gardens.

How is Jacksonville different from Newport?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Jacksonville or Newport?

Jacksonville
Newport

You'll find a number of high quality museums and attractions in both Newport and Jacksonville.

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around Jacksonville. The city has a number of museums that range from art museums to science or kid-friendly museums. Some favorites are the Museum of Science and History, the Museum of Contemporary Art, the Mandarin Museum and Historical Society, and Kingsley Plantation.

Newport offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. The historic mansions and local museums educate visitors on the town's maritime past and colonial roots. Some of the more popular places to visit include The Breakers, The Elms Mansion, The Marble House, and Chateau-sur-mer Mansion.


Is the Food Better in Jacksonville or Newport? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Jacksonville
Newport

There are opportunities to sample the local cuisine at high quality restaurants in both Jacksonville and Newport.

Jacksonville has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. Local cuisine has its own identity. Unique dishes around town include garlic crabs, seafood boil, gumbo, and shrimp and grits. The local cuisine is similar to Lowcountry dishes with a lot of Cajun influence. If you want something different from seafood, you should try the barbecue.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Newport makes for a great culinary experience. Find a waterfront restaurant and enjoy fresh seafood and a charming atmosphere. Many restaurants are influenced by the town's Portuguese and Irish roots. You'll find classic pubs as well as brunch cafes and traditional taverns.

Is Jacksonville or Newport Better for Nightlife?

Jacksonville
Newport

Jacksonville is a very popular place for its evening party scene. Also, Newport is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for nightlife.

Jacksonville has a large number of nightlife venues. The young population brings out the nightlife scene. There's a great concentration of bars and clubs in the area known as The Elbow, which is at the intersection of N. Ocean and E. Bay Street. You'll find plenty of cocktail bars, lounges, and clubs around town that make for a fun night out.

Newport has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. There's a lively atmosphere in the evening with many pubs, taverns, and bars that keep the energy high.

Is Jacksonville or Newport Better for Beaches?

Jacksonville
Newport

Jacksonville and Newport both offer high quality beaches.

Many people visit Jacksonville for it's beautiful beaches. There are a number of beaches that are just a short distance from the city. Some have a historic vibe while others are more lively. Atlantic Beach is about a half hour drive from the city. For a laid back vibe head to Neptune Beach and the most popular beach in the area is Jacksonville Beach.

Newport is considered a top beach destination. Tucked in along the rocky coastline are many beautiful sandy beaches. You'll find popular and active beaches where you can lounge in a chair and people watch, as well as more secluded spots where you can enjoy a more peaceful setting. The largest beach is Easton's Beach (also known as First Beach). Surfers and boaters enjoy Sachuest Beach (or Second Beach), and a less popular, but very rewarding beach is also King Park Beach.


Is Jacksonville or Newport Better for its Old Town?

Jacksonville
Newport

Newport is an excellent place to visit for its historic old town charm. However, Jacksonville does not have a historic old town.

There are many historical things to see in the old town of Newport. The Historic District is filled with colonial buildings and impressive mansions. There are cobblestone streets and a charming loop through the town's Old Quarter.

Jacksonville does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Jacksonville or Newport?

Jacksonville
Newport

Shoppers can find a variety of high quality stores in both Jacksonville and Newport.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in Jacksonville. There are countless malls and shopping districts around town. Some of the best shopping is found at St. John's Center, Five Points, and Avondale.

Newport is an extremely popular place for shoppers. Walk along the charming cobblestone streets and pop in the many local boutiques and shops.

Is Jacksonville or Newport More Beautiful?

Jacksonville
Newport

Newport is a good destination for its scenery and beauty. However, Jacksonville is not a destination known for its beauty.

Newport offers plenty of beauty for visitors. The coastal setting and charming architecture give it a lot of character.

Jacksonville is not a destination known for its beauty.


Is Jacksonville or Newport Better for Families?

Jacksonville
Newport

Newport is an excellent place to visit for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Jacksonville is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Newport. For an educational and interactive experience, head to Save The Bay Exploration Center & Aquarium. The Norman Bird Sanctuary also has a lot of land and places to explore. Kids will enjoy a visit to the beach or running around Breton Point State Park as well. On a rainy day, Ryans Family Amusements is the perfect way to pass some time.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Jacksonville. It's filled with adventure parks, zoos, animal farms, nature centers, and gardens. Adults will have as much fun as kids exploring the city and all of its family-friendly attractions.

Is Jacksonville or Newport Better for Couples?

Jacksonville
Newport

Newport is renowned for couples. Also, Jacksonville is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for romance.

Newport is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. It's a coastal town with a lot of charm that makes for a perfect romantic escape. Enjoy dining and shopping along Thames Street or take a walk along the coast. There are many local restaurants and evening activities for couples as well.

Jacksonville is a nice destination for couples. It's a young city that's near nature and has plenty of adventurous activities. There's sailing, botanical gardens, restaurants, and plenty of bars around town.

Is Jacksonville or Newport Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Jacksonville
Newport

Jacksonville is very good for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Newport is lacking in good options for backpackers.

Jacksonville is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. There are a few hostels in town as well as affordable motels. The city has a young population with plenty to do. Although it's often overlooked by tourists, there's a surprising and underrated appeal to the backpacker crowd.

Newport is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. It's a beautiful town, but accommodation tends to be expensive and there aren't any hostels to attract the budget crowd.


Is Jacksonville or Newport Better for Students?

Jacksonville
Newport

Jacksonville is very good for its student-friendly activities. However, Newport is not popular with students.

Plenty of students visit Jacksonville. There are a few colleges and universities in town. The city's population is also very young, making it a great place to study.

Newport is not popular with students.

Is Jacksonville or Newport Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Jacksonville
Newport

Visitors will find nice public transit in both Jacksonville and Newport.

Jacksonville has some public transit options. The public transportation system includes trolleys, the Skyway, buses, water taxis, and the ferry.

You'll find some public transit in Newport, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There are buses operated by RIPTA. You can visit most of the attractions in the downtown area by catching a ride on one of the classic green and gold hybrid trolley buses.

Is Jacksonville or Newport a more walkable city?

Jacksonville
Newport

Newport is an excellent place to visit for its ease of walking around. Also, Jacksonville is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its walkability.

Newport is a very walkable destination. The town's downtown are compact and fun to explore on foot. There is a nice concentration of shops, restaurants, hotels and sights.

Jacksonville is somewhat walkable. Downtown Jacksonville is the most walkable part of the city.


For even more information, also check out Is Jacksonville Worth Visiting? and Is Newport Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Newport or Jacksonville?

How long in Jacksonville or Newport?

In either Jacksonville or Newport, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Newport than Jacksonville because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Jacksonville, and 2-5 days is enough time in Newport.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Jacksonville than Newport 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 Jacksonville.


  • How many days in Jacksonville or Newport? Ideal Length of Stay
    Jacksonville 2-3 
    Newport 2-5

One day in Jacksonville or Newport?

In Jacksonville, you'll find nightlife and food. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. This city offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

In Newport, many people enjoy the food and shopping that this historical town offers. 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.

A weekend in Jacksonville or Newport?

In Jacksonville, you'll find food and shopping. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Most people come for the beaches. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Jacksonville has to offer.

Newport is a fun place to experience. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. So, a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

Five days in Jacksonville or Newport?

Jacksonville is a great place to explore. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

In Newport, many people enjoy the museums and nightlife that this charming destination offers. 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. So, five days is just the right amount of time to spend here.


A week in Jacksonville or Newport?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Jacksonville. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Jacksonville. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

Newport 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.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best G Adventures Tours to United States of America, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Las Vegas, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Anchorage, and The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Los Angeles.


Which place is cheaper, Newport or Jacksonville?

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

  • Jacksonville Prices
    USA Prices
    Newport Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Jacksonville $289
    Newport $192

The average daily cost (per person) in Jacksonville is $289, while the average daily cost in Newport is $192. 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 Jacksonville and Newport in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Jacksonville $92
    Newport $92
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Jacksonville $184
    Newport $184
Compare Hotels in Jacksonville and Newport

Looking for a hotel in Jacksonville or Newport? 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 Jacksonville


Hotels in Newport


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: Jacksonville Hotel Prices and Newport Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Jacksonville $53
    Newport $36

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Jacksonville

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

  • Private Transfer from Jacksonville to Cruise Port Jacksonville: $108
  • Private Transfer from Carnival Port to Jacksonville Airport (JAX): $108
  • Private Transfer from Carnival Cruise Port to Jacksonville City: $108
  • Private Transfer Jacksonville Airport to Downtown Savannah Hotels: $300
  • Private Transfer Jacksonville Airport to Carnival Cruise Port: $135
  • Private Transfer JAX Airport to Ritz Carlton Amelia Island: $135
  • Miami: One Way To/From Airport Transfer: $78
  • Luxury Car Transfer Jacksonville Airport to Ponte Vedra Resorts: $145
  • Luxury Car Transfer JAX Airport to Margaritaville Beach Hotel: $155
  • Jacksonville to Carnival Cruise Port Jacksonville - Departure Private Transfer: $159
  • Jacksonville Airport Private Lux Car Transfer to Downtown Hotels: $139
  • Jacksonville Airport Limo Transfer to Hammock Beach Golf Resort: $275

Is it cheaper to fly into Jacksonville or Newport?

Prices for flights to both Newport and Jacksonville 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
    Jacksonville $166
    Newport $78

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Jacksonville

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

  • 1 Hour of Chocolate Pizza Making Class in Jacksonville: $20
  • San Marco Food Tour Culinary Journey in Jacksonville: $125

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Newport

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

  • Newport Neighborhood Food Tour: $99

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Jacksonville $20
    Newport $17

Tours and Activities in Jacksonville

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

  • 20 Minutes Chocolate & Candy Factory Tour in Jacksonville: $8.00
  • 90 Minute Self-Guided Arcimoto FUV Adventure: $145
  • All-Inclusive Progressive Culinary & History Experience: $125
  • Amelia Island Area Kayak Rental on Lofton Creek with Adventures Up The Creek: $36
  • Amelia Island Floating Tiki Boat Cruise with BYOB Option: $75
  • Amelia Island Guided Kayak Tour of Lofton Creek : $65
  • Architecture and History Tour in San Marco: $96
  • Avondale Brunch Tour (Jacksonville): $135
  • Big Talbot Island Self Guided Tour with Smart Helmets: $115
  • Bike Ride Through Ponte Vedra Beach Private Tour Florida: $27
  • CraigCat Boat Tour from Fernandina Beach: $145
  • Daytona Beach: 3 Hour Coastal Discovery Boat Cruise: $150

Tours and Activities in Newport

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

  • Newport Ghosts: Seaside Hauntings and Hags Tour: $32
  • Afternoon Grand Tour | Gansett Cruises in Newport, RI: $40
  • America's Cup Evening Sailing Adventure Newport, RI: $125
  • Colonial Newport Walking Tour: $20
  • Explore Newport Cliff Walk Self Guided Walking Tour: $9.99
  • Golden Age to Gilded Age Newport's Transformation Walking Tour: $20
  • Golden Hour Cruise: $45
  • Guided Tour of Newport in Open Air LSV : $129
  • Historic Highlights with the Gilded Age Private Van Tour: $100
  • Historic Scenic Tour Through Newport With Elms Admission: $45
  • Lighthouse and Mimosa Cruise of Narragansett Bay from Newport: $41
  • Morning Mimosa Cruise with Gansett Cruises in Newport, RI: $40

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Jacksonville $20
    Newport $14

Sample the Local Flavors in Jacksonville

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Jacksonville:

  • All-Inclusive Sips & Ships: Downtown Pub Crawl: $75
  • Jax Brewery Tour (Drinks Included): $135


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

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


Which is Bigger, Jacksonville or Newport?

Jacksonville has a larger population, and is about 30 times larger than the population of Newport. When comparing the sizes of Jacksonville and Newport, 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 Jacksonville or Newport?

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 Jacksonville or Newport in the Summer?

Both Newport and Jacksonville are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Jacksonville for the beaches, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Newport in the summer for the beaches, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences.

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

It's quite sunny in Newport. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Jacksonville. Jacksonville usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Newport during summer. Jacksonville gets 286 hours of sunny skies, while Newport receives 293 hours of full sun in the summer.

It's quite rainy in Jacksonville. In July, Jacksonville usually receives more rain than Newport. Jacksonville gets 5.4 inches (137 mm) of rain, while Newport receives 2.8 inches (72 mm) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Jacksonville 82°F (28°C) 
    Newport 73°F (23°C)

Should I visit Jacksonville or Newport in the Autumn?

Both Newport and Jacksonville during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Jacksonville in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene. Furthermore, most visitors come to Newport for the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

In the autumn, Jacksonville is much warmer than Newport. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Jacksonville in October average around 70°F (21°C), and Newport averages at about 53°F (12°C).

In Newport, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Jacksonville. In the autumn, Jacksonville often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Newport. Jacksonville gets 214 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Newport receives 211 hours of full sun.

Jacksonville usually gets less rain in October than Newport. Jacksonville gets 2.9 inches (73 mm) of rain, while Newport receives 3.3 inches (83 mm) of rain this time of the year. Also, the hurricane season in Jacksonville is June to November.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Jacksonville 70°F (21°C) 
    Newport 53°F (12°C)

Should I visit Jacksonville or Newport in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Jacksonville and Newport. Most visitors come to Jacksonville for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Furthermore, the winter months attract visitors to Newport because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

The weather in Newport can be very cold. In January, Jacksonville is generally much warmer than Newport. Daily temperatures in Jacksonville average around 53°F (12°C), and Newport fluctuates around 28°F (-2°C).

Jacksonville usually receives more sunshine than Newport during winter. Jacksonville gets 191 hours of sunny skies, while Newport receives 170 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Jacksonville usually receives around the same amount of rain as Newport. Jacksonville gets 3.3 inches (83 mm) of rain, while Newport receives 3.5 inches (89 mm) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Jacksonville 53°F (12°C) 
    Newport 28°F (-2°C)

Should I visit Jacksonville or Newport in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Jacksonville as well as Newport. The spring months attract visitors to Jacksonville because of the beaches and the activities around the city. Additionally, the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty are the main draw to Newport this time of year.

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

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Newport. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Jacksonville this time of the year. In the spring, Jacksonville often gets more sunshine than Newport. Jacksonville gets 285 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Newport receives 225 hours of full sun.

Jacksonville usually gets less rain in April than Newport. Jacksonville gets 2.8 inches (72 mm) of rain, while Newport receives 3.7 inches (94 mm) of rain this time of the year. Keep in mind that June to November is the hurricane season in Jacksonville.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Jacksonville 68°F (20°C) 
    Newport 48°F (9°C)

Typical Weather for Newport and Jacksonville

Jacksonville Newport
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 53°F (12°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm) 28°F (-2°C) 3.5 inches (89 mm)
Feb 56°F (13°C) 3.9 inches (100 mm) 30°F (-1°C) 3.5 inches (88 mm)
Mar 62°F (17°C) 3.7 inches (93 mm) 38°F (3°C) 4 inches (101 mm)
Apr 68°F (20°C) 2.8 inches (72 mm) 48°F (9°C) 3.7 inches (94 mm)
May 74°F (24°C) 3.7 inches (93 mm) 58°F (15°C) 3.5 inches (89 mm)
Jun 80°F (27°C) 5.7 inches (146 mm) 67°F (20°C) 2.6 inches (67 mm)
Jul 82°F (28°C) 5.4 inches (137 mm) 73°F (23°C) 2.8 inches (72 mm)
Aug 82°F (28°C) 7.8 inches (199 mm) 72°F (22°C) 3.9 inches (99 mm)
Sep 79°F (26°C) 7.1 inches (180 mm) 64°F (18°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm)
Oct 70°F (21°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm) 53°F (12°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm)
Nov 62°F (17°C) 2.2 inches (55 mm) 44°F (7°C) 4.5 inches (115 mm)
Dec 56°F (13°C) 2.7 inches (69 mm) 33°F (0°C) 4.1 inches (105 mm)