A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Newport vs. Boulder for Couples, Attractions, Food, and Families

Should you visit Newport or Boulder?

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 Newport and Boulder can help you decide which place is right for you.

Newport

Newport is a charming, coastal, and seaside town. With fun activities and sights, this is a small town worth visiting. Newport is a beautiful place to visit, too. Visitors also love the food, beaches, and shopping. See Newport travel costs.

Boulder

Boulder is a nature-filled, biker-friendly, and outdoorsy city. Boulder offers plenty of beauty for visitors. It's also popular because of the hiking, shopping, and nightlife. See Boulder travel costs.

Newport and Boulder: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Newport or Boulder?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Newport. Although Newport and Boulder are both popular with visitors, Newport has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Newport is more popular for its museums and attractions, food, beaches, historical sights, shopping, and small town charm, while Boulder is known for its skiing, music, and hiking. Newport is more touristy than Boulder and is known for its sailing regattas, its mansions along Bellevue Avenue, and its maritime history. It is also home to Thames Street. Boulder is popular for its outdoor sports, biker-friendly downtown, vibrant downtown, and many local breweries.

How is Newport different from Boulder?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Newport or Boulder Better for Skiing?

Boulder is a decent place to visit for skiing and snowboarding. However, Newport is not a skiing destination.

While in the area, visitors like to go to Boulder for snow skiing. The town offers access within an hour or two to several great ski resorts including Eldora Mountain, Vail, and Breckenridge.

Newport is not a skiing destination.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Newport or Boulder?

Newport is a great town for its historical sights. However, Boulder is not known for its sights and museums.

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around Newport. The historic mansions and local museums educate visitors on the town's maritime past and colonial roots. Some of the more popular places to visit include The Breakers, The Elms Mansion, The Marble House, and Chateau-sur-mer Mansion.

Boulder offers a handful of options for museums and historical sights. Most people visit Boulder for the outdoor activities more than the museums and sights. If have the time you can wander around the University of Colorado Boulder campus, visit the Museum of Boulder, or see the Leanin' Tree Museum of Western Art.

Is the Food Better in Newport or Boulder? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Newport is a great town for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Boulder is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Newport has a huge number of terrific restaurants. Find a waterfront restaurant and enjoy fresh seafood and a charming atmosphere. Many restaurants are influenced by the town's Portuguese and Irish roots. You'll find classic pubs as well as brunch cafes and traditional taverns.

There are many up and coming restaurants in the Boulder area. This is an often overlooked foodie town, with great farmer's markets and restaurants to try. There are many casual places to eat as well as vegetarian and vegan friendly options everywhere.

Is Newport or Boulder Better for Nightlife?

The good nightlife scene is relatively similar in Newport and Boulder.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Newport. There's a lively atmosphere in the evening with many pubs, taverns, and bars that keep the energy high.

Boulder has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. The town has breweries, craft beer, and plenty to do in the evening. Live music is popular and many venues are smaller with a more personal atmosphere. Check out The Bitter Bar or License No. 1 for a local vibe.

Is Newport or Boulder Better for Music?

Boulder is very good for its music scene. However, Newport is not a live music destination.

Music lovers will find a few good venues in Boulder. During the summer months there are often outdoor concerts. Head to Pearl Street for open air stages or see a concert at Boulder Theater.

Newport is not a live music destination.

Is Newport or Boulder Better for Beaches?

Newport is a great town for the beach. However, Boulder is not a beach destination.

Many people visit Newport for it's beautiful beaches. Tucked in along the rocky coastline are many beautiful sandy beaches. You'll find popular and active beaches where you can lounge in a chair and people watch, as well as more secluded spots where you can enjoy a more peaceful setting. The largest beach is Easton's Beach (also known as First Beach). Surfers and boaters enjoy Sachuest Beach (or Second Beach), and a less popular, but very rewarding beach is also King Park Beach.

Boulder is not a beach destination.

Is Newport or Boulder Better for its Old Town?

Newport is a great town for its old town. However, Boulder does not have a historic old town.

There are many historical things to see in the old town of Newport. The Historic District is filled with colonial buildings and impressive mansions. There are cobblestone streets and a charming loop through the town's Old Quarter.

Boulder does not have a historic old town.

Is Newport or Boulder Better for Hiking?

Boulder is a very popular place for its hiking trails. However, Newport is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors explore the nearby hiking trails while visiting Boulder. There are many accessible hikes in the area that take you through the mountains, by wildflowers, or up mountain peaks. Popular hikes that are nearby include the Bear Peak Summit Hike, the trails in Eldorado Canyon State Park, and Boulder Falls.

Newport is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Newport or Boulder?

Newport is a great town for its shopping opportunities. Also, Boulder is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its shopping areas.

Newport is well-known for its shopping. Walk along the charming cobblestone streets and pop in the many local boutiques and shops.

Many visitors go to Boulder to go shopping. The downtown area has many local retailers where you can shop for clothing, art, or home goods. You can also pick up outdoor gear, camping equipment, and any other items you may need in town. Make sure you wander down the pedestrian-friendly Pearl Street Mall.

Is Newport or Boulder More Beautiful?

You'll find a similar quality of good scenery and beauty in both Newport and Boulder.

Newport offers plenty of beauty for visitors. The coastal setting and charming architecture give it a lot of character.

Boulder is a gorgeous place to visit. The city is surrounded by beautiful mountains and breathtaking landscapes. Many people move here specifically for the surrounding natural beauty.

Is Newport or Boulder Better for Families?

Newport is a great town for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Boulder is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its family-friendly activities.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Newport is very family-friendly. For an educational and interactive experience, head to Save The Bay Exploration Center & Aquarium. The Norman Bird Sanctuary also has a lot of land and places to explore. Kids will enjoy a visit to the beach or running around Breton Point State Park as well. On a rainy day, Ryans Family Amusements is the perfect way to pass some time.

Boulder is a family-friendly place to visit. The city has parks, playgrounds, a planetarium, and climbing gyms that are fun for kids of all ages. There are plenty places to get outdoors with hiking, kayaking, and other outdoor recreational activities. Eldorado Canyon State Park is a great place to explore as well.

Is Newport or Boulder Better for Couples?

Newport is an unbeatable place for its romantic activities. Also, Boulder is not as popular, but is still a nice city for couples.

Newport is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. It's a coastal town with a lot of charm that makes for a perfect romantic escape. Enjoy dining and shopping along Thames Street or take a walk along the coast. There are many local restaurants and evening activities for couples as well.

Boulder is a good town for couples to visit. This is a great city for couples who love outdoor adventures, hiking, rock climbing, and cycling. You can wander down Pearl Street or go for a bike ride. There are also great restaurants where you can enjoy a meal and then head to Panorama Point to take in the view.

Is Newport or Boulder Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Boulder is very good for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Newport is lacking in good options for backpackers.

Boulder is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. There are a number of backcountry areas in the region that are perfect for backpackers. The city also has a young population and several affordable places to stay.

Newport is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. It's a beautiful town, but accommodation tends to be expensive and there aren't any hostels to attract the budget crowd.

Is Newport or Boulder Better for Students?

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

Boulder is very popular with students. With the University of Colorado, Boulder in town, this city is a popular spot for students. It's an outdoor enthusiast's perfect base with many outdoor recreational activities in the area.

Newport is not popular with students.

Is Newport or Boulder Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Newport is a good destination for times when you don't have a car. However, Boulder is not known for its public transit.

While Newport offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There are buses operated by RIPTA. You can visit most of the attractions in the downtown area by catching a ride on one of the classic green and gold hybrid trolley buses.

Public transit is generally limited in Boulder. There are buses that run around town, but you really need a car to fully experience everything that the city has to offer.

Is Newport or Boulder a more walkable city?

Newport is a great town for its high level of walkability. Also, Boulder is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its ease of walking around.

Newport is a very walkable town. The town's downtown are compact and fun to explore on foot. There is a nice concentration of shops, restaurants, hotels and sights.

Boulder is a somewhat walkable town. The city has some nice walkable areas and it is very bike-friendly.

For even more information, also check out Is Newport Worth Visiting? and Is Boulder Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Boulder or Newport?

How long in Newport or Boulder?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Newport and Boulder. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Newport than in Boulder. Usually, 2-5 days is a good amount of time for Newport, and 2-3 days is enough time in Boulder.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Boulder than Newport 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 Boulder.

One day in Newport or Boulder?

In Newport, you'll find nightlife and food. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. This town offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

In Boulder, you'll find nightlife and live music. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking 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.

A weekend in Newport or Boulder?

In Newport, you'll find food and shopping. 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 Newport has to offer.

In Boulder, you'll find live music and food. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Boulder has to offer.

Five days in Newport or Boulder?

Newport is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Newport has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

Boulder is a great place to explore. Hikers are also drawn to this area. 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.

A week in Newport or Boulder?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Newport. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Newport. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Boulder. Many people enjoy the shopping and nightlife when visiting Boulder. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in United States of America, The Best Polar Tours & Cruises in United States of America, The Best Walking Tours in United States of America, and The Best Northern Lights Tours in Alaska.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Newport or Boulder?

Boulder has a larger population, and is about 4 times larger than the population of Newport. When comparing the sizes of Newport and Boulder, 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.