A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Lewisburg vs. Hilo for Food, Families, Couples, and Backpackers

Should you visit Lewisburg or Hilo?

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

Should I visit Lewisburg or Hilo? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

Lewisburg

Lewisburg is a historical, quaint, and charming town. With fun activities and sights, this is a small town worth visiting. It's also popular because of the shopping and museums. See Lewisburg travel costs.

Hilo

Hilo is a mellow, friendly, and authentic town. Hilo is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for hiking, museums, and food. See Hilo travel costs.

Lewisburg and Hilo: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Lewisburg or Hilo?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Hilo than Lewisburg, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Hilo is better known for its food, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, and impressive beauty, while Lewisburg is more popular for its historical sights, shopping, and small town charm. Hilo is more touristy than Lewisburg and is popular for its nearby rainforests, waterfalls, and green gardens. Also, Hilo is famous for Akaka Falls State Park. Lewisburg is well known for its historical charm and friendly personality.

How is Lewisburg different from Hilo?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Lewisburg or Hilo?

Both Lewisburg and Hilo have notable landmarks and museums for visitors.

Lewisburg is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. There are several cultural and historical museums in town as well as a fun children's museum.

Hilo offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. Top museums in and around town include the Lyman Museum, the Pacific Tsunami Museum, Imiloa Astronomy Center, and Mokupapapa Discovery Center.

Is the Food Better in Lewisburg or Hilo? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Hilo is well known for its restaurant scene. However, Lewisburg is not particularly known for its local flavors and cuisine.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Hilo makes for a great culinary experience. This is the largest city on the island and you'll find a restaurant scene that caters to both locals and tourists. There are a number of local dishes that you can try such as Pla Rad Prik (a Thai fish dish), mushroom pot pie, and crab and avocado melt.

You'll find the standard options when it comes to food in Lewisburg. There are bistros and cafes as well as all the standard chain restaurants.

Is Lewisburg or Hilo Better for Nightlife?

Party-goers will find similar levels of energy in Lewisburg and Hilo.

Lewisburg is generally a quiet destination but there are options around. While there are some bars, most people don't come here for the nightlife.

Hilo doesn't have the most active nightlife scene. It's a town that goes to bed early, but there are some local bars that have a chill and relaxing atmosphere.

Is Lewisburg or Hilo Better for Resorts?

Hilo is a town with a few options for its resorts. However, Lewisburg is not a resort destination.

Hilo has a few resort options worth checking out. You'll find more hotels than resorts in town.

Lewisburg is not a resort destination.

Is Lewisburg or Hilo Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Hilo is a town with a few options for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Lewisburg is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Hilo has a few snorkeling spots. Richardsons Ocean Park is the best snorkeling spot nearby but, in general, the water near town has poor visibility because of the frequent rain.

Lewisburg is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Lewisburg or Hilo Better for Beaches?

Hilo is a popular place for its beaches. However, Lewisburg is not a beach destination.

Hilo is a good option for a beach vacation. The town isn't really known for its beaches but there are some decent options if you want to stay nearby and hit the coastline. Beaches in the area include Coconut Island, Reeds Bay Beach Park, and Onekahakaha Beach Park.

Lewisburg is not a beach destination.

Is Lewisburg or Hilo Better for its Old Town?

Lewisburg is a popular place for its historic old town charm. However, Hilo does not have a historic old town.

Lewisburg has an old town worth visiting. There are a huge number of historical buildings in the downtown area that contribute to the town's charm and character.

Hilo does not have a historic old town.

Is Lewisburg or Hilo Better for Hiking?

Hilo is an amazing town to visit for its hiking experiences. However, Lewisburg is not a hiking destination.

People visit Hilo specifically for its hiking, as the natural beauty is well-known. You'll find incredible hikes in the area to many impressive waterfalls. There are also coastal trails and hikes to spectacular viewpoints.

Lewisburg is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Lewisburg or Hilo?

Lewisburg is a popular place for its shopping areas. However, Hilo is not known for shopping.

Lewisburg has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. There are some quaint local shops that sell local items and unique art works.

Hilo is a good destination for shopping. You can pick up anything you need in town, just head to Hilo Shopping Center.

Is Lewisburg or Hilo More Beautiful?

Hilo is well known for its scenery and beauty. However, Lewisburg is not a destination known for its beauty.

Hilo is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. This side of the island is filled with beautiful waterfalls, lush rainforests, and tropical gardens.

Lewisburg is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Lewisburg or Hilo Better for Families?

Hilo is well known for its family-friendly activities. Also, Lewisburg is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

Hilo is a very family-friendly place to visit. The town has an authentic and unpretentious vibe that is fun for families. There are low key beaches, farmer's markets, local museums, and nearby hiking. If you want to stay away from the larger resorts and see a more local side to Hawaii, then this is a great option.

Lewisburg offers lots of family activities. The Lewisburg Children's Museum is worth checking out, as is Reptiland and the many different indoor and outdoor play areas.

Is Lewisburg or Hilo Better for Couples?

Hilo is well known for romance. However, Lewisburg is not particularly known for its romantic activities.

Couples visit Hilo frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. Couples will enjoy visiting Liliuokalani Gardens, taking sunset cruises, and sampling the local cuisine. The town also makes a good base for hiking and exploring the beaches on the island.

Most people don't think of Lewisburg as a couple's destination. There are several quaint inns and beautiful gardens that you can explore. There are also spas and restaurants where you can enjoy a nice meal.

Is Lewisburg or Hilo Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Hilo is well known for backpackers. However, Lewisburg is not particularly known for backpackers and budget travelers.

Backpackers come from all over to visit Hilo. The town has several local hostels that many backpackers prefer for their authentic and mellow atmospheres.

Lewisburg is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. It's not really on the radar for most backpackers.

Is Lewisburg or Hilo Better for Students?

Lewisburg is a popular place for its student-friendly activities. However, Hilo is not popular with students.

It's common for students to visit Lewisburg. Many students enjoy living here while they attend Bucknell University.

Hilo is not popular with students.

Is Lewisburg or Hilo Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

You'll find somewhat comparable public transit options in both Lewisburg and Hilo.

Public transit is generally limited in Lewisburg. Public transportation in the area is limited.

Public transit is mostly limited in Hilo. The Hele-On is a bus service that connects Hilo to Kona with north and south routes.

Is Lewisburg or Hilo a more walkable city?

Lewisburg and Hilo both are notable when exploring on foot.

Lewisburg is somewhat walkable. It's small with a relatively compact downtown.

Hilo is a somewhat walkable place. The downtown is a nice place to take a stroll, but if you want to get out of town, and you really should, then you'll need a car.

For even more information, also check out Is Lewisburg Worth Visiting? and Is Hilo Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Hilo or Lewisburg?

How long in Lewisburg or Hilo?

Both Lewisburg and Hilo have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Hilo than in Lewisburg. Usually, 1-2 days is a good amount of time for Lewisburg, and 3-7 days is enough time in Hilo.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Hilo than Lewisburg 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 Hilo.

One day in Lewisburg or Hilo?

Visitors enjoy the museums and shopping when visiting the destination of Lewisburg. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One day is usually enough time to experience most activities.

You'll find food and museums around the town of Hilo. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. 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 Lewisburg or Hilo?

Lewisburg is a fun place to experience. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. A weekend is often enough time to do most activities. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

You'll find museums and food around the authentic destination of Hilo. Hikers are also drawn to this area. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Five days in Lewisburg or Hilo?

You'll find museums and shopping around the historical destination of Lewisburg. This town offers something for everyone. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

You'll find food and museums around the friendly town of Hilo. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this town makes for a great vacation. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. Most people head to the area for the hiking. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this town has to offer.

A week in Lewisburg or Hilo?

The charming town of Lewisburg offers shopping and museums. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. 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.

Hilo is a popular choice for travelers. One week here is typical. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Hilo, one week is sufficent for most. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Las Vegas, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Anchorage, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Los Angeles, and The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from New York City.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Lewisburg or Hilo?

Hilo has a larger population, and is about 8 times larger than the population of Lewisburg. When comparing the sizes of Lewisburg and Hilo, 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 Lewisburg or Hilo?

Both places have a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. As both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Lewisburg or Hilo in the Summer?

Both Hilo and Lewisburg during the summer are popular places to visit. The summer months attract visitors to Lewisburg because of the small town charm and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Hilo this time of year.

In July, Lewisburg is generally around the same temperature as Hilo. Daily temperatures in Lewisburg average around 74°F (24°C), and Hilo fluctuates around 76°F (24°C).

It's quite sunny in Lewisburg. In the summer, Lewisburg often gets more sunshine than Hilo. Lewisburg gets 310 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Hilo receives 169 hours of full sun.

Hilo gets a good bit of rain this time of year. It rains a lot this time of the year in Lewisburg. Lewisburg usually gets less rain in July than Hilo. Lewisburg gets 4 inches (101 mm) of rain, while Hilo receives 9.7 inches (247 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Lewisburg or Hilo in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Lewisburg and Hilo. The shopping scene and the small town atmosphere are the main draw to Lewisburg this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Hilo for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

Lewisburg is much colder than Hilo in the autumn. The daily temperature in Lewisburg averages around 54°F (12°C) in October, and Hilo fluctuates around 76°F (24°C).

Lewisburg usually receives more sunshine than Hilo during autumn. Lewisburg gets 194 hours of sunny skies, while Hilo receives 138 hours of full sun in the autumn.

Hilo receives a lot of rain in the autumn. In October, Lewisburg usually receives less rain than Hilo. Lewisburg gets 3.3 inches (84 mm) of rain, while Hilo receives 9.8 inches (248 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Lewisburg or Hilo in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Lewisburg as well as Hilo. Many travelers come to Lewisburg for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Additionally, many visitors come to Hilo in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Lewisburg. In the winter, Lewisburg is much colder than Hilo. Typically, the winter temperatures in Lewisburg in January average around 27°F (-3°C), and Hilo averages at about 72°F (22°C).

In the winter, Lewisburg often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Hilo. Lewisburg gets 153 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Hilo receives 158 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Hilo. Lewisburg usually gets less rain in January than Hilo. Lewisburg gets 2.5 inches (65 mm) of rain, while Hilo receives 8.7 inches (221 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Lewisburg or Hilo in the Spring?

Both Hilo and Lewisburg are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Lewisburg in the spring for the small town charm. Also, most visitors come to Hilo for the beaches and the natural beauty during these months.

In April, Lewisburg is generally much colder than Hilo. Daily temperatures in Lewisburg average around 51°F (11°C), and Hilo fluctuates around 73°F (23°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Lewisburg. Lewisburg usually receives more sunshine than Hilo during spring. Lewisburg gets 237 hours of sunny skies, while Hilo receives 134 hours of full sun in the spring.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Hilo. In April, Lewisburg usually receives less rain than Hilo. Lewisburg gets 3.2 inches (82 mm) of rain, while Hilo receives 15.6 inches (395 mm) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Hilo and Lewisburg