A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Marathon vs. Arlington for Food, Nightlife, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Marathon or Arlington?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Marathon or Arlington, 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.

Marathon

Marathon is a quaint, beautiful, and relaxing island. With stunning beauty, Marathon attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the food, scuba diving and snorkeling, and beaches. See Marathon travel costs.

Arlington

Arlington is a international, historical, and educational city. Other reasons to visit include museums, nightlife, and food. See Arlington travel costs.

Marathon and Arlington: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Marathon or Arlington?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Arlington than Marathon, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Arlington is better known for its museums and attractions, food, nightlife, and shopping, while Marathon is more popular for its resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and impressive beauty. Marathon is well known for its Loggerhead sea turtles, the Dolphin Research Center, Sombrero Beach, and its many places to scuba dive and snorkel. Arlington is well known for its international connections, its biking and walking trails, and being the location of the Pentagon. Also, Arlington is famous for Arlington National Cemetery.

How is Marathon different from Arlington?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Marathon or Arlington?

Arlington is great for its historical sights. However, Marathon does not have museums and landmarks.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Arlington can be an interesting and educational experience. Arlington National Cemetery is where you'll find the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier as well as the tomb of John F. Kennedy Jr. There are many memorials around town, with the most famous being the U.S. Marine Corps Memorial. There are also several museums like the DEA Museum and the Museum of Contemporary Art.

Marathon does not have museums and landmarks.

Is the Food Better in Marathon or Arlington? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Arlington is great for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Marathon is not as popular, but is still a nice island for its local cuisine and restaurants.

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in Arlington. It's a global city, and the restaurants reflect that. You'll find amazing Thai, Japanese, and Mexican restaurants. There are also less common cuisines to choose from such as Ethiopian, Moroccan, and Peruvian.

Visitors will find a budding food and restaurant scene in Marathon. There are restaurants with waterfront terraces, raw bars, and other seafood eateries where you can enjoy fresh caught fish for a reasonable price.

Is Marathon or Arlington Better for Nightlife?

Arlington is great for nightlife. Also, Marathon is not as popular, but is still a nice island for nightlife and partying.

Many people head to Arlington for the nightlife scene. The city has a huge young population that drives the nightlife scene. There are clubs, bars, and lounges in many neighborhoods. There are also comedy clubs and plenty of live music.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Marathon. Popular nightlife venues include JJ’s Dog House & Sports Bar, Brass Monkey, and Cabana Club.

Is Marathon or Arlington Better for Resorts?

Marathon is an excellent place to visit for its luxury resorts. However, Arlington is not a resort destination.

Marathon is a popular resort destination that attracts visitors from everywhere. Popular resorts include Isla Bella Beach Resort and Tranquility Bay Resort.

Arlington is not a resort destination.

Is Marathon or Arlington Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Marathon is a nice place to visit for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Arlington is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Marathon has a few areas where visitors often go scuba diving or snorkeling. There are many dive shops around Marathon and the area has dive spots that are great for every level. Some of the best sites are Sombrero Reef, Coffins Patch, and Thunderbolt wreck. There are also many snorkeling trips that head out to Sombrero Reef.

Arlington is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Marathon or Arlington Better for Beaches?

Marathon is an excellent place to visit for the beach. However, Arlington is not a beach destination.

You'll have a great beach vacation in Marathon. Sombrero Beach is a popular spot for picnics, swimming and seeing the Loggerhead Turtles from April through October.

Arlington is not a beach destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Marathon or Arlington?

Arlington is a nice place to visit for shopping. However, Marathon is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Plenty of visitors enjoy shopping while in Arlington. Many neighborhoods have local shops or farmer's markets. There are also shopping centers and malls such as Ballston Quarter, The Crossing Clarendon, and The Village at Shirlington.

Marathon is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Marathon or Arlington More Beautiful?

Marathon is an excellent place to visit for its scenery and beauty. However, Arlington is not a destination known for its beauty.

With stunning beauty, Marathon attracts visitors from all around. The waters are blue and the setting is peaceful, making this area truly beautiful.

Arlington is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Marathon or Arlington Better for Families?

Marathon is an excellent place to visit for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Arlington 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 Marathon. Kids will enjoy getting face-to-face with dolphins at the Dolphin Research Center. Families can also explore Pigeon Key or play in the water at Sombrero Beach. Families will find no shortage of activities on the island.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Arlington. Kids will enjoy seeing the planes talk off from Gravelly Point park. There are also plenty of outdoor spaces and educational opportunities in the area, including world class museums.

Is Marathon or Arlington Better for Couples?

Marathon is an excellent place to visit for couples. Also, Arlington is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for romance.

Marathon makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. With beautiful views, 7 Mile Bridge, and plenty of activities, this area makes a romantic destination for couples. There are beaches and waterfront spots that offer a romantic setting for couples.

Arlington is a nice destination for couples. There's a vibrant cultural scene and many international restaurants that couples can enjoy. It's also a great place to take in a show or concert.

Is Marathon or Arlington Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Arlington is great for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Marathon is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

Arlington is very popular with the backpacker crowd. There are a couple of hostels and many free activities nearby. There's also great public transportation that makes for a convenient backpacker destination.

Marathon is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

Is Marathon or Arlington Better for Students?

Arlington is great for its student-friendly activities. However, Marathon is not popular with students.

Arlington is a great city to visit as a student. There are a huge number of colleges and museums in the area as well as many great internship and educational opportunities.

Marathon is not popular with students.

Is Marathon or Arlington Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Arlington is a must-visit destination for times when you don't have a car. However, Marathon is not a good destination for its public transit.

Arlington has a world-class public transit network to take passengers everywhere in the city. There is a reliable bus system around town as well as many metro connections.

Public transit is limited or non-existant in Marathon. There's no real public transportation in town. A car is essential.

Is Marathon or Arlington a more walkable city?

Arlington is great for its walkability. However, Marathon is not a good destination for its high level of walkability.

Arlington is very walkable. There are many pedestrian-friendly areas around town, particularly in the neighborhoods that are concentrated around metro stations.

Marathon is generally not very walkable. Shops and restaurants and spread out along a central road, making walking difficult to impossible.

For even more information, also check out Is Marathon Worth Visiting? and Is Arlington Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Arlington or Marathon?

How long in Marathon or Arlington?

It's fun to spend time in either Marathon or Arlington. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Marathon due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Marathon, and 2-4 days is enough time in Arlington.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Arlington than Marathon 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 Arlington.

One day in Marathon or Arlington?

You'll find food and scuba diving and snorkeling around the island of Marathon. 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.

The city of Arlington offers food and shopping. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

A weekend in Marathon or Arlington?

You'll find scuba diving and snorkeling and nightlife around the beautiful destination of Marathon. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. This island offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Arlington is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this city makes for a great vacation. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Arlington, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Marathon or Arlington?

You'll find nightlife and food around the relaxing island of Marathon. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this island makes for a great vacation. It's also a relaxing resort destination. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this island has to offer.

Arlington is a popular choice for travelers. 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. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A week in Marathon or Arlington?

Marathon is a popular choice for travelers. One week here is typical. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Marathon, one week is sufficent for most. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Arlington is a great place to explore. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This city offers something for everyone.

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

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

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

Which is Bigger, Marathon or Arlington?

Arlington has a larger population, and is about 20 times larger than the population of Marathon. When comparing the sizes of Marathon and Arlington, 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 Marathon or Arlington?

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 Marathon or Arlington in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Marathon and Arlington. The summer months attract visitors to Marathon because of the beaches, snorkeling, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Arlington this time of year.

In July, Marathon is generally a little warmer than Arlington. Daily temperatures in Marathon average around 84°F (29°C), and Arlington fluctuates around 79°F (26°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Arlington this time of the year. In Marathon, it's very sunny this time of the year. Marathon usually receives more sunshine than Arlington during summer. Marathon gets 328 hours of sunny skies, while Arlington receives 278 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Marathon usually receives around the same amount of rain as Arlington. Marathon gets 3.3 inches (83 mm) of rain, while Arlington receives 3.5 inches (88 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Marathon or Arlington in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Marathon as well as Arlington. The natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Marathon this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Arlington for the shopping scene.

Marathon is much warmer than Arlington in the autumn. The daily temperature in Marathon averages around 80°F (27°C) in October, and Arlington fluctuates around 60°F (15°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Marathon this time of the year. In the autumn, Marathon often gets more sunshine than Arlington. Marathon gets 258 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Arlington receives 197 hours of full sun.

Marathon receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Marathon usually gets more rain in October than Arlington. Marathon gets 5.1 inches (129 mm) of rain, while Arlington receives 2.9 inches (73 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Marathon or Arlington in the Winter?

Both Arlington and Marathon are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Marathon for the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Arlington in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Arlington can get quite cold in the winter. In the winter, Marathon is much warmer than Arlington. Typically, the winter temperatures in Marathon in January average around 70°F (21°C), and Arlington averages at about 35°F (1°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Marathon. Marathon usually receives more sunshine than Arlington during winter. Marathon gets 252 hours of sunny skies, while Arlington receives 139 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Marathon usually receives less rain than Arlington. Marathon gets 1.7 inches (43 mm) of rain, while Arlington receives 2.7 inches (68 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Marathon or Arlington in the Spring?

Both Arlington and Marathon during the spring are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Marathon in the spring for the beaches and the natural beauty.

In April, Marathon is generally much warmer than Arlington. Daily temperatures in Marathon average around 77°F (25°C), and Arlington fluctuates around 56°F (14°C).

In Arlington, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Marathon. In the spring, Marathon often gets more sunshine than Arlington. Marathon gets 326 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Arlington receives 228 hours of full sun.

Marathon usually gets less rain in April than Arlington. Marathon gets 0.8 inches (21 mm) of rain, while Arlington receives 2.8 inches (72 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Arlington and Marathon