A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Mazatlan vs. Houston for Attractions, Food, Nightlife, and Families

Should you visit Mazatlan or Houston?

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

Should I visit Mazatlan or Houston? 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.

Mazatlan

Mazatlan is a cultural, authentic, and historical city. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife. See Mazatlan travel costs.

Houston

Houston is a one-of-a-kind, diverse, and sprawling city. With plenty of activities and things to do, it's a huge city that draws plenty of visitors. And you can't forget about the food, shopping, and museums. See Houston travel costs.

Mazatlan and Houston: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Mazatlan or Houston?

You'll generally find more things to do in Houston than Mazatlan. Houston is bigger than Mazatlan, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Houston is better known for its nightlife, music, and big city activities, while Mazatlan is more popular for its scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and historical sights. Mazatlan is more touristy than Houston and is known for its historic center, authenticity, and surfing areas. Houston is well known for its sprawling size, its local Texas restaurants, and being the home to NASA. Also, Houston is famous for The Space Center Houston.

How is Mazatlan different from Houston?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Mazatlan or Houston?

Plenty of people visit the superb sights and museums in both Mazatlan and Houston.

Mazatlan offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. There are colonial buildings around the Centro Historico. You should also check out the Historic Cathedral and the Angela Peralta Theater.

Many visitors head to Houston specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. Head to Houston's Museum District to explore 19 different museums in a walkable area. A highlight of a trip to the city is a visit to the Space Center, but other popular museums include the Houston Museum of Natural Science, the Museum of Fine Arts, and the Houston Children's Museum.

Is the Food Better in Mazatlan or Houston? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Foodies will find both Mazatlan and Houston both to be superb destinations.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Mazatlan. Stewed meats and shrimp are a big part of the cuisine here. Many recipes have a little bit of spice. The restaurants around town are authentic and local, making for a great dining experience.

Houston has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. The city is famous for its Texas barbecue, Mexican food, and a wide diversity of other different ethnic foods. It's a surprisingly diverse city and this is reflected in the restaurant selection around town.

Is Mazatlan or Houston Better for Nightlife?

Houston is well known for nightlife and partying. Also, Mazatlan is still popular, but not quite as popular for its evening party scene.

Houston is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. The nightlife is at its best on weekends when bars, dance clubs, and concert halls come to life. There are a diversity of venues around town including dance clubs, Honky Tonks, and cocktail bars. Some of the most active nightlife areas are Downtown, Midtown, Montrose, Washington Avenue, and Rice Village.

If you're looking for night time activities Mazatlan has a few options to choose from. There are plenty of bars and clubs around town, particularly along the beach. Like anywhere else, remember to stay cautious late at night around town. This is considered to be one of the less safe parts of Mexico.

Is Mazatlan or Houston Better for Music?

Houston is a popular place for its live music scene. However, Mazatlan is not a live music destination.

The music scene in Houston is active and vibrant. Popular music venues include Fitzgerald's, Walter's Downtown, and The Continental Club.

Mazatlan is not a live music destination.

Is Mazatlan or Houston Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Mazatlan is a good destination for its diving and snorkeling. However, Houston is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Grab a mask and fins and explore the underwater scenery in Mazatlan. Most of the diving takes place around the Pajaros, Venados and Lobos islands. This is where you'll see the most tropical fish.

Houston is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Mazatlan or Houston Better for Beaches?

Mazatlan is well known for the beach. However, Houston is not a beach destination.

Many people visit Mazatlan for it's beautiful beaches. There are many stretches of beach around town. Most notable is the 13 miles that run along Malecon where there's a boardwalk. Surfing is also popular in the area.

Houston is not a beach destination.

Is Mazatlan or Houston Better for its Old Town?

Mazatlan is well known for its old town. However, Houston does not have a historic old town.

There are many historical things to see in the old town of Mazatlan. It's a historic port city with a charming colonial old town.

Houston does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Mazatlan or Houston?

Shopping is a popular activity in both Houston and Mazatlan.

Mazatlan offers some nice shopping areas. There are local shops, big box stores, and souvenir vendors where you can pick up anything you may need or items to commemorate your trip.

Houston has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. There are a number of upscale malls and shopping centers that have brand names, chain stores, and the occasional local shop where you can pick up items.

Is Mazatlan or Houston Better for Families?

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

Houston is a very kid-friendly city. It is a large city with plenty of things that kids can enjoy including museums, theaters, a zoo, and even the Space Center. The Children's Museum of Houston is perfect for a rainy day. For science loving kids there's the Health Museum and the Museum of Natural Science. Houston also has a Six Flags nearby which the whole family can enjoy.

Mazatlan offers lots of family activities. Kids will enjoy the all-inclusive resorts and the waterfront setting. There are also many cultural opportunities such as markets, history, and shows. The food is very kid-friendly as well.

Is Mazatlan or Houston Better for Couples?

With fun activities for couples, both Mazatlan and Houston make for a notable place to visit.

Mazatlan makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. The resorts are romantic and the beaches are stunning. If you're looking for an idyllic escape that also has culture, authenticity, and great food, then this is your spot.

Houston is a good city for couples to visit. There's a surprising diversity of restaurants around the city. There are also performing arts productions and many outdoor parks and gardens.

Is Mazatlan or Houston Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Mazatlan is well known for backpackers. However, Houston is not particularly known for backpackers and budget travelers.

Mazatlan is a great city to visit for backpackers. The laid back atmosphere makes this a great stopover for backpackers who want to experience the Mexican culture. Stick to the touristy areas if possible.

Houston is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. Most backpackers skip this sprawling city, but there are some hostels and cheap motels.

Is Mazatlan or Houston Better for Students?

Houston is a popular place for students. However, Mazatlan is not popular with students.

Houston is popular with students. It's a large city with a number of universities and a large student population.

Mazatlan is not popular with students.

Is Mazatlan or Houston Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Mazatlan is a good destination for its public transit. However, Houston is not particularly known for times when you don't have a car.

You'll find some public transit in Mazatlan, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There are city buses around town.

Public transit is mostly limited in Houston. The system includes buses and a limited light rail. Houston is known as a car-centric city and you really need a car to fully experience it.

Is Mazatlan or Houston a more walkable city?

Mazatlan is well known for its high level of walkability. However, Houston is not particularly known for its ease of walking around.

Mazatlan is a very walkable city. The city is relatively walkable.

Houston is generally not a very walkable city. The most walkable neighborhood is the historic Houston Heights, but most parts of the city aren't very walkable.

For even more information, also check out Is Mazatlan Worth Visiting? and Is Houston Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Houston or Mazatlan?

How long in Mazatlan or Houston?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Mazatlan and Houston. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Mazatlan than in Houston. Usually, 3-5 days is a good amount of time for Mazatlan, and 2-3 days is enough time in Houston.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Mazatlan than Houston 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 Mazatlan.

One day in Mazatlan or Houston?

In Mazatlan, you'll find shopping and museums. 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.

Houston is a big city with plenty to do. 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 Mazatlan or Houston?

In Mazatlan, you'll find museums and nightlife. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Visiting the old town is also a must. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

Houston 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 Houston, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Mazatlan or Houston?

Mazatlan is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Mazatlan has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

Houston 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 Mazatlan or Houston?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Mazatlan. Many people enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling when visiting Mazatlan. 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.

Houston 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 Food and Culinary Tours in Mexico, The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Mexico, The Best Wildlife Tours to United States of America, and The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in United States of America.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Mazatlan or Houston?

Houston has a larger population, and is about 6 times larger than the population of Mazatlan. When comparing the sizes of Mazatlan and Houston, 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 Mazatlan or Houston?

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 Mazatlan or Houston in the Summer?

Both Houston and Mazatlan are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Mazatlan for the beaches, snorkeling, and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Houston because of the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

Mazatlan is around the same temperature as Houston in the summer. The daily temperature in Mazatlan averages around 29°C (83°F) in July, and Houston fluctuates around 84°F (29°C).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Houston. It's quite rainy in Mazatlan. In July, Mazatlan usually receives more rain than Houston. Mazatlan gets 199 mm (7.8 in) of rain, while Houston receives 4.8 inches (122 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Mazatlan or Houston in the Autumn?

Both Houston and Mazatlan during the autumn are popular places to visit. The autumn months attract visitors to Mazatlan because of the shopping scene. Also, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the music scene are the main draw to Houston this time of year.

In the autumn, Mazatlan is a little warmer than Houston. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Mazatlan in October average around 27°C (81°F), and Houston averages at about 71°F (22°C).

Houston gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Mazatlan usually gets less rain in October than Houston. Mazatlan gets 86 mm (3.4 in) of rain, while Houston receives 4.2 inches (107 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Mazatlan or Houston in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Mazatlan and Houston. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Mazatlan this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Houston for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

In January, Mazatlan is generally much warmer than Houston. Daily temperatures in Mazatlan average around 20°C (67°F), and Houston fluctuates around 52°F (11°C).

In January, Mazatlan usually receives less rain than Houston. Mazatlan gets 17 mm (0.7 in) of rain, while Houston receives 3.6 inches (91 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Mazatlan or Houston in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Mazatlan as well as Houston. Many travelers come to Mazatlan for the beaches. Also, many visitors come to Houston in the spring for the activities around the city.

Mazatlan is around the same temperature as Houston in the spring. The daily temperature in Mazatlan averages around 22°C (72°F) in April, and Houston fluctuates around 70°F (21°C).

Mazatlan usually gets less rain in April than Houston. Mazatlan gets 1 mm (0 in) of rain, while Houston receives 3.1 inches (78 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Houston and Mazatlan