A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Minneapolis vs. Monterey for Families, Attractions, Food, and Nightlife

Should you visit Minneapolis or Monterey?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Minneapolis or Monterey, 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.

Minneapolis

Minneapolis is a diverse, dynamic, and innovative city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. It's also popular because of the food, shopping, and museums. See Minneapolis travel costs.

Monterey

Monterey is a relaxing, nature-oriented, and laid back city. Visitors also love the food, scuba diving and snorkeling, and beaches. See Monterey travel costs.

Minneapolis and Monterey: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Minneapolis or Monterey?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Minneapolis. Although Minneapolis and Monterey are both popular with visitors, Minneapolis has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Minneapolis is more popular for its shopping and big city activities, while Monterey is known for its scuba diving & snorkeling and beaches. Monterey is more touristy than Minneapolis and is known for its rugged coastline, diverse marine life, and excellent seafood. Minneapolis is popular for its professional sports teams, countless outdoor activities, and friendly people. It is also home to Mall of America.

How is Minneapolis different from Monterey?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Minneapolis or Monterey?

Visiting museums and landmarks is a fun activity in both Minneapolis and Monterey.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Minneapolis can be an interesting and educational experience. There's a wide variety of museums that include art, history, science, and local culture. Some of the favorite museums in the city are the Minneapolis Institute of Art, the Walker Art Center, the American Swedish Institute, and the Weisman Art Museum.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into Monterey. The Monterey Bay Aquarium is a not-to-be-missed destination in town. You can also visit the Monterey State Historic Park or the Monterey Museum of Art.

Is the Food Better in Minneapolis or Monterey? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Foodies will find both Minneapolis and Monterey both to be great destinations.

Minneapolis has a huge number of terrific restaurants. Dishes in the Midwest are known for being hearty comfort foods, and the food in Minneapolis is no exception. You'll find cheese-stuffed burgers that are known as Juicy Lucys, Tator Tot casseroles, and deep-fried cheese curds. For international food, there's a variety of Scandinavian options around town.

Dining out in Monterey is an experience not to be missed. Seafood and local produce are what make the food special. There are many great restaurants to you can choose from that will let you enjoy the classic seafood dishes like clam chowder or oysters, as well as fresh artichokes and local wine.

Is Minneapolis or Monterey Better for Nightlife?

The great nightlife scene is relatively similar in Minneapolis and Monterey.

Minneapolis has a large number of nightlife venues. There are diverse neighborhoods that each have their own personality. You'll find rooftop lounges in Uptown, international venues in Whittier, and trendy bars in the North Loop. But at the heart of the city's nightlife scene is Downtown Minneapolis.

Monterey is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. There's a buzzing atmosphere at night with bars, breweries, and casual eateries all coming to life. Some of the best venues are found at the Old Fisherman's Wharf and along Alvarado Street.

Is Minneapolis or Monterey Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Monterey is a nice place to visit for its diving and snorkeling. However, Minneapolis is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Monterey has a few areas where visitors often go scuba diving or snorkeling. Scuba diving offers an unforgettable experience. The Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary gives you the unique experience of seeing sea lions, otters, kelp forests, crabs, and more.

Minneapolis is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Minneapolis or Monterey Better for Beaches?

Monterey is a nice place to visit for the beach. However, Minneapolis is not a beach destination.

Monterey has a beach worth visiting. The beaches highlight the laid by California vibe with sunbathers and beachgoers soaking up the atmosphere. There are both inlets and sandy beaches where you can see sea lions or explore the tidal pools.

Minneapolis is not a beach destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Minneapolis or Monterey?

Minneapolis is an amazing city to visit for its shopping areas. Also, Monterey is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for shopping.

Many people travel to Minneapolis specifically to go shopping. Known for the megamall, Mall of America, this is a shopper's paradise. Mall of America is the largest shopping mall in the country and it even has an aquarium and a theme park within it. In addition to this iconic shopping mall, Minneapolis also has many shopping districts including the Minnehaha Mile.

Monterey is an extremely popular place for shoppers. You'll find both local vendors and tourist shops around town. Cannery Row is a popular destination, as is Old Fisherman's Wharf and the Old Farmer's Market.

Is Minneapolis or Monterey Better for Families?

Monterey is a world-class destination for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Minneapolis is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

Monterey is an amazing family-friendly city to visit. Monterey Bay Aquarium is a highlight for kids and adults alike. There's also the Monterey Zoo as well as lighthearted activities like a mirror maze. MY Museum is an interactive museum that's perfect for younger kids. There are also whale watching trips and nearby beaches.

Minneapolis is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. Mall of America is at the top of the list for most families, but there's also plenty of kid-friendly museums around town as well as nature centers, parks, and playgrounds. There's the Como Park Zoo and Conservatory, the Minnesota Zoo, and Afton Apple Orchard. For museums, kids will love the Minnesota Children's Museum or the Science Museum of Minnesota.

Is Minneapolis or Monterey Better for Couples?

Monterey is a very popular place for its romantic activities. Also, Minneapolis is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for couples.

Monterey makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. There are many romantic inns in town as well as quaint restaurants and fun activities. There are also spas, wine bars, and plenty of shopping for couples to enjoy as well.

Minneapolis is a good city for couples to visit. There are beautiful parks and outdoor spaces to explore as well as museums and fine dining. Couples will appreciate stopping by the Stone Arch Bridge or wandering through the Lyndale Park Rose Garden.

Is Minneapolis or Monterey Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Monterey is a nice place to visit for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Minneapolis is lacking in good options for backpackers.

It's common for backpackers to visit Monterey. There's a hostel in town as well as fun activities that will appeal to backpackers.

Minneapolis is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. While it's not a popular destination for backpackers, there is at least one hostel in town.

Is Minneapolis or Monterey Better for Students?

Minneapolis is a very popular place for its student-friendly activities. However, Monterey is not popular with students.

Many students visit Minneapolis. There are a number of colleges and universities in the area including the University of Minnesota. The city is known for its academic and intellectual focus, and students will enjoy being challenged educationally while enjoying a dynamic city.

Monterey is not popular with students.

Is Minneapolis or Monterey Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Minneapolis is a good destination for times when you don't have a car. However, Monterey is lacking in good options for its public transit.

Minneapolis has some public transit options. There are buses, light rail, and commuter trains that stop at many of the major entertainment centers around town.

Public transit is generally limited in Monterey. There is a bus system through the area.

Is Minneapolis or Monterey a more walkable city?

Monterey is a very popular place for its high level of walkability. Also, Minneapolis is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its ease of walking around.

Monterey is a very walkable city. If you stay near the town center, it's very walkable and easy to get around on foot.

Minneapolis is a somewhat walkable city. There are neighborhoods that are dense enough to be walkable, but the city is still very car-focused.

For even more information, also check out Is Minneapolis Worth Visiting? and Is Monterey Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Monterey or Minneapolis?

How long in Minneapolis or Monterey?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Minneapolis and Monterey. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Minneapolis than in Monterey. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Minneapolis, and 1-3 days is enough time in Monterey.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Monterey than Minneapolis 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 Monterey.

One day in Minneapolis or Monterey?

The city of Minneapolis 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.

Visitors enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping when visiting the relaxing city of Monterey. One day should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A weekend in Minneapolis or Monterey?

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

Visitors enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the nature-oriented destination of Monterey. This city offers something for everyone. Plenty of people spend a weekend in the area when traveling. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

Five days in Minneapolis or Monterey?

Minneapolis is a popular choice for travelers. It's no surprise that shopping is why people visit. 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.

The laid back city of Monterey offers museums and nightlife. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

A week in Minneapolis or Monterey?

Minneapolis is a great place to explore. It's no surprise that shopping is why people visit. 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.

Many people enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting Monterey. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Los Angeles, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from New York City, The Best 2-Week Tours from New York City, and The Best 2-Week Tours from Anchorage.

When comparing the travel costs between Minneapolis and Monterey, we can see that Minneapolis is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Since both cities are in North America, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

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

Which is Bigger, Minneapolis or Monterey?

Minneapolis has a larger population, and is about 10 times larger than the population of Monterey. When comparing the sizes of Minneapolis and Monterey, 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 Minneapolis or Monterey?

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 Minneapolis or Monterey in the Summer?

Both Monterey and Minneapolis are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Minneapolis for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Monterey in the summer for the beaches, snorkeling, and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Minneapolis is a little warmer than Monterey. Typically, the summer temperatures in Minneapolis in July average around 76°F (25°C), and Monterey averages at about 63°F (17°C).

In July, Minneapolis usually receives more rain than Monterey. Minneapolis gets 3.4 inches (86 mm) of rain, while Monterey receives 0 inches (1 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Minneapolis or Monterey in the Autumn?

Both Monterey and Minneapolis during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Minneapolis in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene. Also, most visitors come to Monterey for the shopping scene during these months.

In October, Minneapolis is generally much colder than Monterey. Daily temperatures in Minneapolis average around 52°F (11°C), and Monterey fluctuates around 62°F (17°C).

Minneapolis usually gets more rain in October than Monterey. Minneapolis gets 1.8 inches (45 mm) of rain, while Monterey receives 0.6 inches (14 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Minneapolis or Monterey in the Winter?

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

Minneapolis can be very cold during winter. Minneapolis is much colder than Monterey in the winter. The daily temperature in Minneapolis averages around 15°F (-10°C) in January, and Monterey fluctuates around 51°F (11°C).

In January, Minneapolis usually receives less rain than Monterey. Minneapolis gets 0.9 inches (22 mm) of rain, while Monterey receives 2.3 inches (58 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Minneapolis or Monterey in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Minneapolis as well as Monterey. The spring months attract visitors to Minneapolis because of the activities around the city. Also, the beaches are the main draw to Monterey this time of year.

In the spring, Minneapolis is cooler than Monterey. Typically, the spring temperatures in Minneapolis in April average around 49°F (10°C), and Monterey averages at about 56°F (13°C).

Minneapolis usually gets more rain in April than Monterey. Minneapolis gets 2.1 inches (53 mm) of rain, while Monterey receives 1.1 inches (29 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Monterey and Minneapolis