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

Should you visit New Orleans or Raleigh?

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 Raleigh 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 fun-filled, festive, and vibrant 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. Other popular activities here include food, nightlife, and live music. See New Orleans travel costs.

Raleigh

Raleigh is a friendly, southern, and student-friendly city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. Other reasons to visit include nightlife, food, and museums. See Raleigh travel costs.

New Orleans and Raleigh: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in New Orleans or Raleigh?

You'll generally find more things to do in New Orleans than Raleigh. New Orleans is bigger than Raleigh, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. New Orleans is better known for its food, nightlife, music, historical sights, shopping, and quaint atmosphere, while Raleigh is more popular for its museums and attractions. New Orleans is more touristy than Raleigh and is popular for its jazz festivals, local cuisine, quaint balconies, and world class Mardi Gras parties. Also, New Orleans is famous for The French Quarter. Raleigh is well known for its many museums and being the home to North Carolina State University.

The French Quarter

How is New Orleans different from Raleigh?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Raleigh 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 Raleigh?

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

Raleigh is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. As the state capital, there are a number of free museums in the area. There are also some kid-friendly options and other activities that are affiliated with the colleges and universities. Popular options include the NC Museum of Natural Sciences (free), the NC Museum of History (free), the NC Museum of Art (free), and Marbles Kids Museum.

New Orleans does not have museums and landmarks.

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

New Orleans is very popular for its restaurant scene. Also, Raleigh is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

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.

There are plenty of up and coming restaurants around Raleigh. In addition to the standard chain restaurants, you'll find a number of local eateries with great southern dishes. Try some southern classics like barbecue, pimento cheese, and fried chicken and waffles. There are also good international options including Nepalese, Laotian, and Ethiopian flavors.

Is New Orleans or Raleigh Better for Nightlife?

New Orleans is very popular for its evening party scene. Also, Raleigh is still popular, but not quite as popular 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.

If you're looking for night time activities Raleigh has a few options to choose from. Head to downtown Raleigh or the areas around NC State University for some of the best nightlife. Trivia nights and happy hours are popular and you'll find breweries popping up in many places.

Is New Orleans or Raleigh Better for Music?

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

In New Orleans you'll find nightly musicians performing at a variety of venues. 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.

Raleigh is not a live music destination.

Is New Orleans or Raleigh Better for its Old Town?

New Orleans is well known for its historic old town charm. However, Raleigh 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.

Raleigh does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in New Orleans or Raleigh?

New Orleans is a city with a few options for its shopping areas. However, Raleigh is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

New Orleans has some good spots for those that want to go shopping. New Orleans shopping is mostly centered around shopping malls and chain stores.

Raleigh is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is New Orleans or Raleigh Better for Families?

Raleigh is a city with good options for its kid-friendly activities. However, New Orleans is lacking in options for its family-friendly activities.

Raleigh is a family-friendly city. For such a small city, Raleigh has a number of unique kid-friendly activities like the popular Pullen Park and Marbles Kids' Museum. Pullen Park has small rides and a playground that are perfect for young kids. There's also the NC Museum of Natural History which is free and fun to explore with kids.

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 Raleigh Better for Couples?

New Orleans is a popular place for couples. However, Raleigh is not particularly known for romance.

New Orleans is a good city for couples to visit. 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.

Raleigh is not the best destination for a couple to visit. While it's often overlooked by couples who want a weekend away, there are a number of museums and some nice restaurants to explore.

Is New Orleans or Raleigh Better for Students?

Raleigh is an excellent place to visit for its student-friendly activities. Also, New Orleans is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for students.

Students come from all over to stay in Raleigh. The city has a diverse student population with many nearby universities and colleges.

New Orleans is popular with students. Students head to New Orleans to enjoy spring break and Mardi Gras.

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

New Orleans is a city with a few options for its public transit. However, Raleigh is not particularly known for times when you don't have a car.

Public transit is generally 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 quite limited in Raleigh. The city's public transportation options are limited to a few bus lines that are mostly used by students.

Is New Orleans or Raleigh a more walkable city?

New Orleans is a popular place for its ease of walking around. However, Raleigh is not particularly known for its walkability.

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

Raleigh is generally not a very walkable city. The city is somewhat walkable in the downtown area, but everywhere else you'll need a car.

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

Should I spend more time in Raleigh or New Orleans?

How long in New Orleans or Raleigh?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both New Orleans and Raleigh. In our opinion, New Orleans has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in New Orleans than Raleigh. However, 2-3 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

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

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

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

One day in New Orleans or Raleigh?

In New Orleans, you'll find food and nightlife. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. This city offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

Visitors enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the suburban-style city of Raleigh. 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 Raleigh?

In New Orleans, you'll find nightlife and live music. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Visiting the old town is also a must. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that New Orleans has to offer.

Visitors enjoy the food and museums when visiting the student-friendly destination of Raleigh. 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 New Orleans or Raleigh?

New Orleans is a great place to explore. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

The friendly city of Raleigh 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 New Orleans or Raleigh?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in New Orleans. Many people enjoy the food and nightlife when visiting New Orleans. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

Many people enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting Raleigh. 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 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 Raleigh, we can see that New Orleans is more expensive. And not only is Raleigh much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Raleigh would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Raleigh 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 Raleigh.

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 Raleigh Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, New Orleans or Raleigh?

New Orleans has a larger population, and is about 76% larger than the population of Raleigh. When comparing the sizes of New Orleans and Raleigh, 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 Raleigh?

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 New Orleans or Raleigh in the Summer?

Both Raleigh and New Orleans during the summer are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to New Orleans for the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, many visitors come to Raleigh in the summer for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, New Orleans is generally around the same temperature as Raleigh. Daily temperatures in New Orleans average around 82°F (28°C), and Raleigh fluctuates around 79°F (26°C).

In Raleigh, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in New Orleans. In the summer, New Orleans often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Raleigh. New Orleans gets 264 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Raleigh receives 259 hours of full sun.

Raleigh 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 more rain in July than Raleigh. New Orleans gets 5.9 inches (149 mm) of rain, while Raleigh receives 5.1 inches (129 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit New Orleans or Raleigh in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both New Orleans and Raleigh. Many visitors come to New Orleans in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the music scene. Furthermore, most visitors come to Raleigh for the city's sights and attractions during these months.

New Orleans is a little warmer than Raleigh in the autumn. The daily temperature in New Orleans averages around 69°F (21°C) in October, and Raleigh fluctuates around 61°F (16°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Raleigh this time of the year. In New Orleans, it's very sunny this time of the year. New Orleans usually receives more sunshine than Raleigh during autumn. New Orleans gets 240 hours of sunny skies, while Raleigh receives 211 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, New Orleans usually receives more rain than Raleigh. New Orleans gets 3 inches (77 mm) of rain, while Raleigh receives 2.8 inches (71 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit New Orleans or Raleigh in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to New Orleans as well as Raleigh. Most visitors come to New Orleans for the shopping scene and the cuisine during these months. Additionally, the winter months attract visitors to Raleigh because of the museums and the cuisine.

The weather in Raleigh can be very cold. In the winter, New Orleans is much warmer than Raleigh. Typically, the winter temperatures in New Orleans in January average around 51°F (11°C), and Raleigh averages at about 40°F (5°C).

In the winter, New Orleans often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Raleigh. New Orleans gets 158 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Raleigh receives 162 hours of full sun.

New Orleans receives a lot of rain in the winter. New Orleans usually gets more rain in January than Raleigh. New Orleans gets 5.2 inches (131 mm) of rain, while Raleigh receives 3.2 inches (82 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit New Orleans or Raleigh in the Spring?

Both Raleigh and New Orleans are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The spring months attract visitors to New Orleans because of the activities around the city. Also, the activities around the city are the main draw to Raleigh this time of year.

In April, New Orleans is generally a little warmer than Raleigh. Daily temperatures in New Orleans average around 68°F (20°C), and Raleigh fluctuates around 60°F (16°C).

It's quite sunny in Raleigh. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in New Orleans. New Orleans usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Raleigh during spring. New Orleans gets 254 hours of sunny skies, while Raleigh receives 251 hours of full sun in the spring.

It's quite rainy in New Orleans. In April, New Orleans usually receives more rain than Raleigh. New Orleans gets 4.5 inches (114 mm) of rain, while Raleigh receives 3.1 inches (78 mm) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Raleigh and New Orleans