A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Myrtle Beach vs. Arlington for Nightlife, Food, Backpackers, and Families

Should you visit Myrtle Beach or Arlington?

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

Which city is more affordable and which is best for your travel style? If you're trying to figure out where to go next, comparing the travel costs between Myrtle Beach and Arlington can help you decide which place is right for you.

Myrtle Beach

Myrtle Beach is a party-filled, busy, and jam-packed beach city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. It's also popular because of the nightlife and beaches. See Myrtle Beach travel costs.

Arlington

Arlington is a educational, international, and historical city. Other popular activities here include shopping, museums, and nightlife. See Arlington travel costs.

Myrtle Beach and Arlington: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Myrtle Beach or Arlington?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Myrtle Beach. Although Myrtle Beach and Arlington are popular destinations, Myrtle Beach has more sights and attractions for tourists. Myrtle Beach is very popular for its nightlife, resorts, beaches, and big city activities, while Arlington attracts visitors for its museums and attractions, food, and shopping. Myrtle Beach is more touristy than Arlington and is popular for its party-hard atmosphere, spring break crowds, and beachfront nightlife scene. It is also well known for the Myrtle Beach boardwalk. Arlington is famous for its international connections, its biking and walking trails, and being the location of the Pentagon.

The Myrtle Beach boardwalk

How is Myrtle Beach different from Arlington?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Myrtle Beach or Arlington?

Arlington is a great destination for its museums and landmarks. However, Myrtle Beach does not have museums and landmarks.

Many visitors head to Arlington specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. 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.

Myrtle Beach does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Arlington is a great destination for its restaurant scene. However, Myrtle Beach is a beach city with minimal options for its local flavors and cuisine.

Dining out in Arlington is an experience not to be missed. 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.

Myrtle Beach offers some easy restaurants to choose from. Slices of pizza and seafood buffets are the most common options in the area. There are also themed restaurants and dinner shows that make for a fun night, even if the food isn't the highest quality.

Is Myrtle Beach or Arlington Better for Nightlife?

Myrtle Beach is terrific for its evening party scene. Also, Arlington is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for nightlife.

Myrtle Beach is a must-see party destination. This beach is famous for its nightlife. From all-night bars and clubs, to music concerts and outdoor venues, there's no shortage of things to do. Bachelor and Bachelorette parties and spring break crowds make this the place to be for a party.

The people in Arlington know how to have a good time. 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.

Is Myrtle Beach or Arlington Better for Resorts?

Myrtle Beach is a decent place to visit for its luxury resorts. However, Arlington is not a resort destination.

You might not think of Myrtle Beach as a resort destination, but it has a few places. While there are a handful of resorts in the area, like the popular Marriott Vacation Club, most hotels are crowded and lacking in space.

Arlington is not a resort destination.

Is Myrtle Beach or Arlington Better for Beaches?

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

You'll have a great beach vacation in Myrtle Beach. Most people head to the center of town and boardwalk for the nightlife and vibrant activities more than the actual beach. The stretches north and south have nice beaches lined with hotels and resorts, and a much more family-friendly atmosphere. If you want a more relaxed beach setting without the huge crowds, check out Myrtle Beach State Park.

Arlington is not a beach destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Myrtle Beach or Arlington?

Arlington is very good for its shopping areas. However, Myrtle Beach is a beach city with minimal options for shopping.

Many visitors go to Arlington to go shopping. 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.

Myrtle Beach is a good destination for shopping. The town is filled with souvenir shops, t-shirt shops, and candy vendors that make shopping entertaining.

Is Myrtle Beach or Arlington Better for Families?

Arlington is very good for its family-friendly activities. However, Myrtle Beach is a beach city with minimal options for its kid-friendly activities.

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.

For families, Myrtle Beach is not always the best place to visit. While this area isn't generally considered a family destination, there are some newer vacation clubs and resorts that cater specifically to families and have become popular. The Marriott Vacation Club is one of the most popular with families in Myrtle Beach.

Is Myrtle Beach or Arlington Better for Couples?

Both Myrtle Beach and Arlington are nice destinations to visit as a couple.

Myrtle Beach is a good beach city for couples to visit. The beach area isn't exactly a romantic destination but for couples who enjoy going out and having fun together, there is no shortage of night time activities.

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 Myrtle Beach or Arlington Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Arlington is a great destination for backpackers. However, Myrtle Beach is a beach city with minimal options for backpackers and budget travelers.

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

Myrtle Beach is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. The nightlife scene brings the young crowd, but this isn't exactly a backpacker destination.

Is Myrtle Beach or Arlington Better for Students?

Myrtle Beach and Arlington are excellent places to visit for students.

Myrtle Beach is very popular with students. University students flock to the area for spring break and end of year celebrations. If you're a student during those times, this is the place to be, otherwise, the area is best avoided.

Arlington is a great beach 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.

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

Arlington is a world-class destination for its public transit. However, Myrtle Beach is a beach city with minimal options for times when you don't have a car.

With a huge network, the transit system in Arlington can get you around easily. There is a reliable bus system around town as well as many metro connections.

Public transit is quite limited in Myrtle Beach. There are no real public transit options so you'll need a car to get around.

Is Myrtle Beach or Arlington a more walkable city?

Arlington is a great destination for its ease of walking around. However, Myrtle Beach is a beach city with minimal options for its walkability.

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

Myrtle Beach is generally not a very walkable beach city. By the Boardwalk, it's easy to walk around, but traffic can still be congested and once you're out of the main strip, a car is essential.

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

Should I spend more time in Arlington or Myrtle Beach?

How long in Myrtle Beach or Arlington?

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

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Arlington than Myrtle Beach 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 Myrtle Beach or Arlington?

You'll find nightlife around the beach city of Myrtle Beach. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. 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.

In Arlington, many people enjoy the food and shopping that this historical city offers. 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 Myrtle Beach or Arlington?

You'll find nightlife around the high energy destination of Myrtle Beach. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this beach city has to offer. This beach city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Arlington is a fun place to experience. 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 Myrtle Beach or Arlington?

You'll find nightlife around the jam-packed beach city of Myrtle Beach. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this beach city makes for a great vacation. It's also a great beach destination, too. Most people head to the area for the nightlife. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this beach city has to offer.

You'll find museums and nightlife around the international destination of Arlington. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days.

A week in Myrtle Beach or Arlington?

Myrtle Beach is a popular choice for travelers. One week here is typical. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Myrtle Beach, one week is sufficent for most. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Arlington is a popular place to visit. 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 Bicycle Tours in United States of America, Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in United States of America, The Best Coach Bus Tours in United States of America, and The Best Adventure Tours to United States of America.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Myrtle Beach and Arlington, we can see that Arlington is more expensive. And not only is Myrtle Beach much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Myrtle Beach would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Myrtle Beach 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 Myrtle Beach.

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

Which is Bigger, Myrtle Beach or Arlington?

Arlington has a larger population, and is about 7 times larger than the population of Myrtle Beach. When comparing the sizes of Myrtle Beach 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 Myrtle Beach or Arlington?

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 Myrtle Beach or Arlington in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Myrtle Beach as well as Arlington. The beaches, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Myrtle Beach this time of year. Additionally, many travelers come to Arlington for the family-friendly experiences.

Myrtle Beach is around the same temperature as Arlington in the summer. The daily temperature in Myrtle Beach averages around 81°F (27°C) in July, and Arlington fluctuates around 79°F (26°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Arlington. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Myrtle Beach this time of the year. In the summer, Myrtle Beach often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Arlington. Myrtle Beach gets 283 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Arlington receives 278 hours of full sun.

Myrtle Beach receives a lot of rain in the summer. Myrtle Beach usually gets more rain in July than Arlington. Myrtle Beach gets 8.1 inches (207 mm) of rain, while Arlington receives 3.5 inches (88 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Myrtle Beach or Arlington in the Autumn?

Both Arlington and Myrtle Beach are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Myrtle Beach for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene. Also, many visitors come to Arlington in the autumn for the shopping scene.

In the autumn, Myrtle Beach is a little warmer than Arlington. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Myrtle Beach in October average around 65°F (18°C), and Arlington averages at about 60°F (15°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Myrtle Beach. Myrtle Beach usually receives more sunshine than Arlington during autumn. Myrtle Beach gets 227 hours of sunny skies, while Arlington receives 197 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Myrtle Beach usually receives around the same amount of rain as Arlington. Myrtle Beach gets 2.7 inches (68 mm) of rain, while Arlington receives 2.9 inches (73 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Myrtle Beach or Arlington in the Winter?

Both Arlington and Myrtle Beach during the winter are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Myrtle Beach in the winter for the shopping scene and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Arlington for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Arlington can be very cold during winter. In January, Myrtle Beach is generally much warmer than Arlington. Daily temperatures in Myrtle Beach average around 45°F (7°C), and Arlington fluctuates around 35°F (1°C).

In the winter, Myrtle Beach often gets more sunshine than Arlington. Myrtle Beach gets 180 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Arlington receives 139 hours of full sun.

Myrtle Beach usually gets more rain in January than Arlington. Myrtle Beach gets 3.9 inches (98 mm) of rain, while Arlington receives 2.7 inches (68 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Myrtle Beach or Arlington in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Myrtle Beach and Arlington. Most visitors come to Myrtle Beach for the beaches and the activities around the city during these months.

Myrtle Beach is a little warmer than Arlington in the spring. The daily temperature in Myrtle Beach averages around 62°F (17°C) in April, and Arlington fluctuates around 56°F (14°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Arlington this time of the year. In Myrtle Beach, it's very sunny this time of the year. Myrtle Beach usually receives more sunshine than Arlington during spring. Myrtle Beach gets 278 hours of sunny skies, while Arlington receives 228 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Myrtle Beach usually receives around the same amount of rain as Arlington. Myrtle Beach gets 2.9 inches (73 mm) of rain, while Arlington receives 2.8 inches (72 mm) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Arlington and Myrtle Beach