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

Should you visit Mystic or Monterey?

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

Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for Mystic and Monterey. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.

Mystic

Mystic is a laid back, charming, and quaint town. It's also popular because of the food, beaches, and shopping. See Mystic travel costs.

Monterey

Monterey is a laid back, relaxing, and nature-oriented city. Other reasons to visit include beaches, shopping, and museums. See Monterey travel costs.

Mystic and Monterey: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Mystic or Monterey?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Monterey than Mystic, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Monterey is better known for its food, nightlife, and scuba diving & snorkeling, while Mystic is more popular for its beaches. Mystic is well known for its New England charm and local character. Monterey is well known for its rugged coastline, diverse marine life, and excellent seafood. Also, Monterey is famous for the Monterey Bay Aquarium.

How is Mystic different from Monterey?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Spend time exploring the excellent sights and museums in either Mystic or Monterey.

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around Mystic. There's a decent selection of museums around town with some of the favorites being the Mystic Seaport Museum, the Mystic Museum of Art, the Denison Homestead Museum, and the Old Lighthouse Museum, The Mystic Aquarium is also a popular destination.

Monterey offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. 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 Mystic or Monterey? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Monterey is an excellent place to visit for its restaurants. Also, Mystic is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in Monterey. 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.

Visitors will find a budding food and restaurant scene in Mystic. As a coastal town, you'll find no shortage of seafood at many restaurants. Popular dishes include oysters, shrimp, or fish. There are also many casual restaurants that serve comfort food for classic American favorites like mac and cheese, pasta, or burgers.

Is Mystic or Monterey Better for Nightlife?

Monterey is an excellent place to visit for nightlife. Also, Mystic is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for nightlife and partying.

Monterey has a lively atmosphere and nightlife is popular here. 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.

Mystic has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. Head downtown for the most interesting bars and breweries. You can sip wine or enjoy a cocktail at a laid back pub with friends or family.

Is Mystic or Monterey Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Monterey is a good destination for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Mystic is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Grab a mask and fins and explore the underwater scenery in Monterey. 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.

Mystic is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Mystic or Monterey Better for Beaches?

Mystic is a very popular place for the beach. Also, Monterey is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its beaches.

Many people visit Mystic for it's beautiful beaches. The beaches are accessible from town and offer a laid back setting that's not overly developed. Families will like Ocean Beach Park but Williams Beach Park is one of the easiest beaches to access. If you're willing to drive a bit out of town, you should check out Misquamicut State Beach.

Monterey is a good option for a beach vacation. 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.

Is the Shopping Better in Mystic or Monterey?

Shoppers can find a variety of excellent stores in both Mystic and Monterey.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Mystic. Head downtown for scenic shopping streets with boutiques, artisan craft shops, and jewelry stores.

Monterey is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. 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 Mystic or Monterey Better for Families?

Monterey is an amazing city to visit for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Mystic is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

With a huge array of activities for kids, Monterey is very family-friendly. 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.

Mystic is a very kid-friendly town. Animal lovers will enjoy wandering around the many trails at Denison Pequotsepos Nature Center or visiting the famous Mystic Aquarium. You can also visit the shops around Olde Mistick Village or dine at one of the many kid-friendly restaurants.

Is Mystic or Monterey Better for Couples?

Monterey is an excellent place to visit for romance. Also, Mystic is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its romantic activities.

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.

Mystic makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Check out Mystic Seaport or drive down the coastline and visit the lighthouses. You'll also find breweries around town as well as many fun or romantic restaurants.

Is Mystic or Monterey Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Monterey is a good destination for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Mystic is lacking in options for backpackers.

Plenty of backpackers visit Monterey. There's a hostel in town as well as fun activities that will appeal to backpackers.

Mystic is not the best destination for backpackers and budget travelers due to its high prices. It's not high on the list for most backpackers.

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

Monterey is a decent place to visit for times when you don't have a car. However, Mystic is lacking in options for its public transit.

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

Public transit is limited or non-existant in Mystic. There is a bus but it has limited stops and only runs on weekdays.

Is Mystic or Monterey a more walkable city?

Monterey is an excellent place to visit for its walkability. However, Mystic is lacking in options for its high level of walkability.

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

Mystic is generally not very walkable. While parts of town are very walkable, you'll need a car if you want to see the sights that are a bit further away.

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

Should I spend more time in Monterey or Mystic?

How long in Mystic or Monterey?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Mystic and Monterey. In our opinion, Monterey has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Monterey than Mystic. In general, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Mystic, and 1-3 days is enough time in Monterey.

Families should spend more time in Monterey than Mystic. 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 Mystic. 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 Mystic 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 Mystic or Monterey?

The town of Mystic offers food and shopping. Most people come for the beaches. 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.

Many travelers enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping when visiting the destination of Monterey. One day is often enough time to do most activities.

A weekend in Mystic or Monterey?

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

Monterey is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Five days in Mystic or Monterey?

Mystic 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Monterey. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A week in Mystic or Monterey?

Mystic is a great place to explore. It's also a great beach destination, too. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This town offers something for everyone.

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the relaxing destination of Monterey. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 2-Week Tours in United States of America, The Best 3-Week Tours in United States of America, The Best Bicycle Tours in United States of America, and Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in United States of America.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Mystic or Monterey?

Monterey has a larger population, and is about 6 times larger than the population of Mystic. When comparing the sizes of Mystic 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 Mystic 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 Mystic or Monterey in the Summer?

Both Monterey and Mystic are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The summer months attract visitors to Mystic because of the beaches and the family-friendly experiences. Also, the beaches, snorkeling, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Monterey this time of year.

In July, Mystic is generally a little warmer than Monterey. Daily temperatures in Mystic average around 73°F (23°C), and Monterey fluctuates around 63°F (17°C).

In July, Mystic usually receives more rain than Monterey. Mystic gets 2.8 inches (72 mm) of rain, while Monterey receives 0 inches (1 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Mystic or Monterey in the Autumn?

Both Monterey and Mystic during the autumn are popular places to visit. The shopping scene are the main draw to Mystic this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Monterey for the shopping scene.

Mystic is cooler than Monterey in the autumn. The daily temperature in Mystic averages around 53°F (12°C) in October, and Monterey fluctuates around 62°F (17°C).

Mystic usually gets more rain in October than Monterey. Mystic gets 3.3 inches (83 mm) of rain, while Monterey receives 0.6 inches (14 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Mystic or Monterey in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Mystic and Monterey. Many travelers come to Mystic for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Furthermore, many visitors come to Monterey in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Mystic. In the winter, Mystic is much colder than Monterey. Typically, the winter temperatures in Mystic in January average around 28°F (-2°C), and Monterey averages at about 51°F (11°C).

In January, Mystic usually receives more rain than Monterey. Mystic gets 3.5 inches (89 mm) of rain, while Monterey receives 2.3 inches (58 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Mystic or Monterey in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Mystic as well as Monterey. Many visitors come to Mystic in the spring for the beaches. Additionally, most visitors come to Monterey for the beaches during these months.

In April, Mystic is generally cooler than Monterey. Daily temperatures in Mystic average around 48°F (9°C), and Monterey fluctuates around 56°F (13°C).

Mystic usually gets more rain in April than Monterey. Mystic gets 3.7 inches (94 mm) of rain, while Monterey receives 1.1 inches (29 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Monterey and Mystic