A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America New Orleans vs. Hilo for Food, Nightlife, Families, and Couples

Should you visit New Orleans or Hilo?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between New Orleans and Hilo can help. It includes a travel cost comparison in addition to other factors. For many travelers, the cost of a destination is a primary consideration when choosing where to go.

New Orleans

New Orleans is a festive, vibrant, and energetic city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. As this is a very quaint destination, you'll find it has a special atmosphere. It's also popular because of the food, nightlife, and live music. See New Orleans travel costs.

Hilo

Hilo is a laid back, mellow, and friendly town. Hilo is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Other reasons to visit include beaches, hiking, and museums. See Hilo travel costs.

New Orleans and Hilo: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in New Orleans or Hilo?

Visitors will usually find more to do in New Orleans than Hilo, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. New Orleans is better known for its food, nightlife, music, historical sights, big city activities, and quaint atmosphere, while Hilo is more popular for its museums and attractions, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, and impressive beauty. New Orleans is more touristy than Hilo and is known for its jazz festivals, local cuisine, quaint balconies, and world class Mardi Gras parties. Also, New Orleans is famous for The French Quarter. Hilo is well known for its nearby rainforests, waterfalls, and green gardens.

The French Quarter

How is New Orleans different from Hilo?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in New Orleans or Hilo?

Hilo is a town with good options for its museums and history. However, New Orleans does not have museums and landmarks.

Hilo is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. Top museums in and around town include the Lyman Museum, the Pacific Tsunami Museum, Imiloa Astronomy Center, and Mokupapapa Discovery Center.

New Orleans does not have museums and landmarks.

Is the Food Better in New Orleans or Hilo? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

New Orleans is very popular for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Hilo is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its local cuisine and restaurants.

For foodies, New Orleans is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. It has rapidly grown into one of the United State's most well known foodie destinations. It's the birthplace of bananas foster and popular for it's gumbo, crawfish etouffee, jambalaya, and red beans and rice. While there are a number of celebrity chefs from New Orleans, you'll also find many local restaurants that aren't as well known but are equally worth visiting.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Hilo makes for a great culinary experience. This is the largest city on the island and you'll find a restaurant scene that caters to both locals and tourists. There are a number of local dishes that you can try such as Pla Rad Prik (a Thai fish dish), mushroom pot pie, and crab and avocado melt.

Is New Orleans or Hilo Better for Nightlife?

New Orleans is very popular for its evening party scene. However, Hilo is not known for nightlife.

New Orleans is a party destination, and you'll find plenty of activity all night long. The nightlife scene is at its best during Mardi Gras. But year-round you'll find Bachelor and Bachelorette parties, spring breakers, and anyone who wants to enjoy a crazy time heads to New Orleans. New Orleans is a destination that attracts partiers any time of the year, and the French Quarter is the place to be if you're looking for a party.

Most people don't head to Hilo specifically for the nightlife scene, but you can find a few options. It's a town that goes to bed early, but there are some local bars that have a chill and relaxing atmosphere.

Is New Orleans or Hilo Better for Music?

New Orleans is very popular for its music scene. However, Hilo is not a live music destination.

New Orleans has become a mecca for musicians from around the world. The city is known for its music festivals that feature jazz, blues, and many other types of live music. The Jazz Festival is a great time to visit.

Hilo is not a live music destination.

Is New Orleans or Hilo Better for Resorts?

Hilo is a decent place to visit for its luxury resorts. However, New Orleans is not a resort destination.

Hilo has a few resort options worth checking out. You'll find more hotels than resorts in town.

New Orleans is not a resort destination.

Is New Orleans or Hilo Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Hilo is a decent place to visit for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, New Orleans is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

It's possible to go snorkeling in Hilo. Richardsons Ocean Park is the best snorkeling spot nearby but, in general, the water near town has poor visibility because of the frequent rain.

New Orleans is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is New Orleans or Hilo Better for Beaches?

Hilo is a town with good options for its beaches. However, New Orleans is not a beach destination.

Plenty of visitors enjoy relaxing on the beach in Hilo. The town isn't really known for its beaches but there are some decent options if you want to stay nearby and hit the coastline. Beaches in the area include Coconut Island, Reeds Bay Beach Park, and Onekahakaha Beach Park.

New Orleans is not a beach destination.

Is New Orleans or Hilo Better for its Old Town?

New Orleans is a great city for its historic old town charm. However, Hilo does not have a historic old town.

Many visitors explore the old town while visiting New Orleans. The French Quarter is filled with old architecture and beautiful historic landmarks.

Hilo does not have a historic old town.

Is New Orleans or Hilo Better for Hiking?

Hilo is a world-class destination for its hiking trails. However, New Orleans is not a hiking destination.

Around Hilo visitors will find world-class hiking trails. You'll find incredible hikes in the area to many impressive waterfalls. There are also coastal trails and hikes to spectacular viewpoints.

New Orleans is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in New Orleans or Hilo?

Shoppers can find a variety of respectable stores in both New Orleans and Hilo.

New Orleans is a good destination for shopping. New Orleans shopping is mostly centered around shopping malls and chain stores.

If you're looking to go shopping, Hilo has some nice offerings. You can pick up anything you need in town, just head to Hilo Shopping Center.

Is New Orleans or Hilo More Beautiful?

Hilo is an excellent place to visit for its scenery and beauty. However, New Orleans is not a destination known for its beauty.

Hilo is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. This side of the island is filled with beautiful waterfalls, lush rainforests, and tropical gardens.

New Orleans is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is New Orleans or Hilo Better for Families?

Hilo is an excellent place to visit for its kid-friendly activities. However, New Orleans is lacking in options for its family-friendly activities.

Hilo is a very family-friendly destination. The town has an authentic and unpretentious vibe that is fun for families. There are low key beaches, farmer's markets, local museums, and nearby hiking. If you want to stay away from the larger resorts and see a more local side to Hawaii, then this is a great option.

New Orleans doesn't usually come to mind when thinking about kid-friendly destinations. While there are some family-friendly activities in New Orleans like a zoo and several great parks, the city is more known for its parties and nightlife scene. Particularly during certain seasons, most people choose to visit New Orleans without kids.

Is New Orleans or Hilo Better for Couples?

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

Hilo makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Couples will enjoy visiting Liliuokalani Gardens, taking sunset cruises, and sampling the local cuisine. The town also makes a good base for hiking and exploring the beaches on the island.

New Orleans makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Couples who enjoy a lively evening, fun festivals, and exploring absolutely amazing restaurants will enjoy a visit to New Orleans. It has a festive and unique atmosphere any time of the year. There are also nice hotels and beautiful parks.

Is New Orleans or Hilo Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Hilo is an excellent place to visit for backpackers and budget travelers. However, New Orleans is lacking in options for backpackers.

Hilo is very popular with the backpacker crowd. The town has several local hostels that many backpackers prefer for their authentic and mellow atmospheres.

New Orleans is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. There are a handful of hostels in New Orleans that are good options for backpackers who want to meet other travelers.

Is New Orleans or Hilo Better for Students?

New Orleans is a popular place for its student-friendly activities. However, Hilo is not popular with students.

It's common for students to visit New Orleans. Students head to New Orleans to enjoy spring break and Mardi Gras.

Hilo is not popular with students.

Is New Orleans or Hilo Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Visitors will find respectable public transit in both New Orleans and Hilo.

Public transit is mostly limited in New Orleans. The city has streetcar lines and bus lines that you can use, but you'll want to have a car if you want to venture outside of these main areas.

Public transit is generally limited in Hilo. The Hele-On is a bus service that connects Hilo to Kona with north and south routes.

Is New Orleans or Hilo a more walkable city?

New Orleans and Hilo are notable when it comes to walkability.

New Orleans is somewhat walkable. If you stick to the French Quarter and downtown areas, most things are walkable in New Orleans.

Hilo is a somewhat walkable place. The downtown is a nice place to take a stroll, but if you want to get out of town, and you really should, then you'll need a car.

For even more information, also check out Is New Orleans Worth Visiting? and Is Hilo Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Hilo or New Orleans?

How long in New Orleans or Hilo?

Both New Orleans and Hilo have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Hilo than in New Orleans. Usually, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for New Orleans, and 3-7 days is enough time in Hilo.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Hilo than New Orleans 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 Hilo.

One day in New Orleans or Hilo?

Visitors enjoy the food and nightlife when visiting the destination of New Orleans. Visiting the old town is also a must. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

Visitors enjoy the food and museums when visiting the authentic town of Hilo. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Most people visit for the hiking. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A weekend in New Orleans or Hilo?

New Orleans is a fun place to experience. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. A weekend is often enough time to do most activities. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Visitors enjoy the museums and food when visiting the authentic destination of Hilo. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. This town offers something for everyone. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

Five days in New Orleans or Hilo?

You'll find live music and food around the fun-filled destination of New Orleans. This city offers something for everyone. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Visitors enjoy the food and museums when visiting the friendly town of Hilo. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. Many people spend five days here.If you enjoy all that's offered here, then five days is just the right amount of time to spend here. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

A week in New Orleans or Hilo?

The festive city of New Orleans offers food and nightlife. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. One week 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.

Visitors enjoy the museums and food when visiting the destination of Hilo. Anyone can find something fun to do here. This is a popular place to visit for one week. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. Most people visit for the hiking. In one week, you should have a good grasp of this town.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Cultural Tours in United States of America, The Best Photography Tours in United States of America, The Best Camping Tours in United States of America, and The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in United States of America.

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

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

Which is Bigger, New Orleans or Hilo?

New Orleans has a larger population, and is about 10 times larger than the population of Hilo. When comparing the sizes of New Orleans and Hilo, 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 New Orleans or Hilo?

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 New Orleans or Hilo in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both New Orleans and Hilo. Many travelers come to New Orleans for the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Hilo in the summer for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, New Orleans is generally a little warmer than Hilo. Daily temperatures in New Orleans average around 82°F (28°C), and Hilo fluctuates around 76°F (24°C).

In New Orleans, it's very sunny this time of the year. New Orleans usually receives more sunshine than Hilo during summer. New Orleans gets 264 hours of sunny skies, while Hilo receives 169 hours of full sun in the summer.

Hilo receives a lot of rain in the summer. New Orleans gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In July, New Orleans usually receives less rain than Hilo. New Orleans gets 5.9 inches (149 mm) of rain, while Hilo receives 9.7 inches (247 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit New Orleans or Hilo in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to New Orleans as well as Hilo. Many visitors come to New Orleans in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the music scene. Also, most visitors come to Hilo for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

New Orleans is cooler than Hilo in the autumn. The daily temperature in New Orleans averages around 69°F (21°C) in October, and Hilo fluctuates around 76°F (24°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in New Orleans this time of the year. In the autumn, New Orleans often gets more sunshine than Hilo. New Orleans gets 240 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Hilo receives 138 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Hilo. New Orleans usually gets less rain in October than Hilo. New Orleans gets 3 inches (77 mm) of rain, while Hilo receives 9.8 inches (248 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit New Orleans or Hilo in the Winter?

Both Hilo and New Orleans are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to New Orleans for the shopping scene and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Hilo because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

In the winter, New Orleans is much colder than Hilo. Typically, the winter temperatures in New Orleans in January average around 51°F (11°C), and Hilo averages at about 72°F (22°C).

New Orleans usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Hilo during winter. New Orleans gets 158 hours of sunny skies, while Hilo receives 158 hours of full sun in the winter.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Hilo. It's quite rainy in New Orleans. In January, New Orleans usually receives less rain than Hilo. New Orleans gets 5.2 inches (131 mm) of rain, while Hilo receives 8.7 inches (221 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit New Orleans or Hilo in the Spring?

Both Hilo and New Orleans during the spring are popular places to visit. The spring months attract visitors to New Orleans because of the activities around the city. Furthermore, the beaches and the natural beauty are the main draw to Hilo this time of year.

In April, New Orleans is generally cooler than Hilo. Daily temperatures in New Orleans average around 68°F (20°C), and Hilo fluctuates around 73°F (23°C).

It's quite sunny in New Orleans. In the spring, New Orleans often gets more sunshine than Hilo. New Orleans gets 254 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Hilo receives 134 hours of full sun.

Hilo gets a good bit of rain this time of year. It rains a lot this time of the year in New Orleans. New Orleans usually gets less rain in April than Hilo. New Orleans gets 4.5 inches (114 mm) of rain, while Hilo receives 15.6 inches (395 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Hilo and New Orleans