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

Should you visit Richmond or Cleveland?

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 Richmond and Cleveland can help you decide which place is right for you.

Richmond

Richmond is a historical, growing, and friendly city. Other reasons to visit include food, shopping, and museums. See Richmond travel costs.

Cleveland

Cleveland is a authentic, under-rated, and diverse city. Other popular activities here include nightlife, live music, and shopping. See Cleveland travel costs.

Richmond and Cleveland: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for students
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Family-friendly
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with couples


Is there more to do in Richmond or Cleveland?

You'll generally find more things to do in Cleveland than Richmond. Cleveland is bigger than Richmond, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Cleveland is better known for its music, while Richmond is more popular for its food. Richmond is more touristy than Cleveland and is popular for its cultural and historical sights. Cleveland is well known for being the home to "rock 'n roll" as well as its friendly and hard working people. Also, Cleveland is famous for the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame.

How is Richmond different from Cleveland?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Richmond or Cleveland?

Richmond
Cleveland

For an educational experience, head to a museum or a notable sight in either Richmond or Cleveland.

Many visitors head to Richmond specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. The city has a long history which you can learn about at one of the many museums. There's the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts, the Virginia Museum of History and Culture, and the Black History Museum. There are also landmarks and historical homes.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Cleveland can be an interesting and educational experience. There are diverse museums around town such as the Cleveland Museum of Art, the Museum of Contemporary Art (moCa), and the Great Lakes Science Center. Music lovers will appreciate a visit to the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame.


Is the Food Better in Richmond or Cleveland? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Richmond
Cleveland

Richmond is a nice place to visit for its restaurants. However, Cleveland is lacking in good options for its restaurant scene.

There are plenty of up and coming restaurants around Richmond. The food scene has been growing around town, and there are food halls and local restaurants that serve diverse and interesting dishes. You'll find Indian, Asian, and European restaurants in addition to local classics.

You'll find the standard options when it comes to food in Cleveland. Casual dining with comfort food is the way most residents prefer to eat. There are local foods that have made a name for themselves such as gourmet hot dogs and deli sandwiches. The food is also influenced by the city's German, Irish, Polish, and Italian roots. Pierogis, bratwurst, and chicken paprikash are all common.

Is Richmond or Cleveland Better for Nightlife?

Richmond
Cleveland

Evening events are notable in both Richmond and Cleveland.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Richmond. You'll find diverse bars and clubs around town. Pubs are usually laid back with a relaxed atmosphere. You'll also find live music that includes bluegrass, country, and jazz.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Cleveland. Breweries have become a popular nighttime activity. There are also comedy clubs, music venues, and several theaters.

Is Richmond or Cleveland Better for Music?

Richmond
Cleveland

Cleveland is notable for its music scene. However, Richmond is not a live music destination.

If you love music, you'll find something to enjoy in Cleveland. Home to the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame, it has long been a destination for music enthusiasts. There are many independent music venues and it's the perfect place to catch a show.

Richmond is not a live music destination.


Is the Shopping Better in Richmond or Cleveland?

Richmond
Cleveland

Both Richmond and Cleveland are notable shopping destinations.

Many visitors go to Richmond to go shopping. You'll find shopping malls and shopping centers around town, but there are also eclectic shopping streets and boutique outlets.

Plenty of visitors enjoy shopping while in Cleveland. Large shopping malls offer plenty of selection. There's also West Side Market, which is the oldest public market in the city. Other interesting shopping areas include Little Italy and the Cleveland Flea.

Is Richmond or Cleveland Better for Families?

Richmond
Cleveland

You'll find notable kid-friendly activities in either Richmond or Cleveland.

Richmond is a family-friendly place to visit. The Children's Museum of Richmond offers hands-on exhibits that will keep young ones entertained. Another fun option is the Science Museum of Virginia. The city also has parks and outdoor places to explore as well as playgrounds and kid-friendly restaurants.

Cleveland is a family-friendly city. Kid-friendly activities in the area include the Children’s Museum of Cleveland, the Great Lakes Science Center, and the Cleveland Museum of Natural History. There's also the Cleveland Metroparks Zoo as well as the smaller Akron Zoo.

Is Richmond or Cleveland Better for Couples?

Richmond
Cleveland

Richmond is a nice place to visit for romance. However, Cleveland is lacking in good options for its romantic activities.

Richmond is a nice destination for couples. Kayaking or tubing on the James River is a great activity for couples. There are also museums and many restaurants that are perfect for a date night.

Most people don't think of Cleveland as a couple's destination. There are several romantic date night activities like boat rides on Lake Erie or dining at a nice restaurant.


Is Richmond or Cleveland Better for Students?

Richmond
Cleveland

Richmond is a nice place to visit for its student-friendly activities. However, Cleveland is not popular with students.

Plenty of students visit Richmond. There are a couple of colleges and universities in town such as Virginia Commonwealth University.

Cleveland is not popular with students.

Is Richmond or Cleveland Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Richmond
Cleveland

Both Richmond and Cleveland offer respectable public transit options.

Public transit is generally limited in Richmond. There are buses around town, but the availability and reliability is limited.

Public transit is mostly limited in Cleveland. There are bus, trolley, and train lines through the city, but a car is the most efficient way to get around.

Is Richmond or Cleveland a more walkable city?

Richmond
Cleveland

Richmond is a nice place to visit for its walkability. However, Cleveland is lacking in good options for its high level of walkability.

Richmond is somewhat walkable. There are some walkable neighborhoods such as the Fan and Museum District, but most people prefer to get around by car.

Cleveland is generally not very walkable. While some neighborhoods are more walkable than others (Downtown, Ohio City and Buckeye - Shaker), most visitors need a car to easily access everything they wish to do.


For even more information, also check out Is Richmond Worth Visiting? and Is Cleveland Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Cleveland or Richmond?

How long in Richmond or Cleveland?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Richmond and Cleveland. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Cleveland than in Richmond. Usually, 1-2 days is a good amount of time for Richmond, and 1-3 days is enough time in Cleveland.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Richmond than Cleveland 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 Richmond.


  • How many days in Richmond or Cleveland? Ideal Length of Stay
    Richmond 1-2 
    Cleveland 1-3

One day in Richmond or Cleveland?

You'll find shopping and museums around the city of Richmond. One day is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Richmond has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

The city of Cleveland offers live music and shopping. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one day here. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

A weekend in Richmond or Cleveland?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the friendly destination of Richmond. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

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

Five days in Richmond or Cleveland?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the growing city of Richmond. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Cleveland 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.


A week in Richmond or Cleveland?

Richmond is a popular choice for travelers. 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. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Cleveland is a great place to explore. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This city offers something for everyone.


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.


Which place is cheaper, Cleveland or Richmond?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations. These travel costs come from the actual spending of real travelers.

  • Richmond Prices
    USA Prices
    Cleveland Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Richmond $176
    Cleveland $158

The average daily cost (per person) in Richmond is $176, while the average daily cost in Cleveland is $158. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Richmond and Cleveland in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Richmond $101
    Cleveland $75
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Richmond $202
    Cleveland $150
Compare Hotels in Richmond and Cleveland

Looking for a hotel in Richmond or Cleveland? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Richmond


Hotels in Cleveland


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Richmond Hotel Prices and Cleveland Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Richmond $72
    Cleveland $19

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Richmond

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Richmond:

  • Richmond City to Richmond Airport (RIC) - Departure Private Transfer: $175
  • Richmond Airport (RIC) to Richmond city - Arrival Private Transfer: $175

Typical Local Transportation Prices in Cleveland

Some typical examples of transportation costs in Cleveland are as follows:


  • Taxi to Airport
    $36

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Cleveland

Also for Cleveland, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Private Arrival Transfer from Cleveland Airprot (CLE): $68
  • Private Departure Transfer to Cleveland Airport (CLE): $68
  • Cleveland to Cleveland Hopkins Airport (CLE) - Departure Private Transfer : $104
  • Cleveland Hopkins Airport (CLE) to Cleveland - Round-Trip Private Transfer : $207

Is it cheaper to fly into Richmond or Cleveland?

Prices for flights to both Cleveland and Richmond change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    Richmond $36
    Cleveland $62

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Richmond

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Richmond.

  • Church Hill Food Tour: $89
  • Trendy Carytown Food Tour: $89
  • The Carytown Food Tour with Discover Richmond Tours: $90
  • Church Hill Food Tour with Discover Richmond Tours: $90
  • Arts District Food Tour in Richmond with Discover Richmond: $90
  • Delicious Pizza & Ice Cream Tour of Richmond: $94
  • Arts District Walking Food Tour: $99

Typical Food Prices in Cleveland

For Cleveland, here are some examples of average food and meal prices for travelers:


  • Coffee
    $1.79
  • Sandwich
    $9.75
  • Large Pizza
    $15

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Cleveland

For Cleveland, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • West Side Market Food Tour: $53
  • Little Italy Neighborhood Food Tour of Cleveland: $79
  • Tremont Neighborhood Food Tour: $79
  • Ohio City Neighborhood Food Tour of Cleveland: $91

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Richmond $13
    Cleveland $40

Tours and Activities in Richmond

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Richmond are as follows:

  • Capitol Steps and Stories Walking Tour : $45
  • Church Hill Chillers Ghost Tour: $27
  • Church Hill Segway Tour in Richmond: $80
  • Creepy Tales on Campus Ghost Tour: $27
  • Discover Downtown Richmond Bike Tour: $165
  • Discover Downtown and Riverfront Bike Tour : $115
  • Haunted Capitol Hill Ghost Tour: $27
  • Historic Trolley Tour: $42
  • Hollywood Cemetery Segway Tour in Richmond: $80
  • Offbeat History Tour of Richmond on a bus: $45
  • Phantoms of Franklin Ghost Tour: $27
  • Quirk Richmond Art and Secret Garden Tour: $115

Tours and Activities in Cleveland

For Cleveland, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • Akron Secrets: Rubber City Exploration Game and Tour: $5.00
  • Cleveland Downtown Self Guided Audio Walking Tour: $9.75
  • Unique Scavenger Hunt Experience in Cleveland by Wacky Walks: $10
  • Skip the Line: Cleveland History Center Admission Ticket: $14
  • Ghost Tour of Cleveland with free Ghost Hunting Gear: $20
  • Experience the season with a scavenger hunt in Cleveland with Holly Jolly Hunt: $20
  • Smartphone-Guided Walking Tour of Downtown Cleveland Sights & Stories: $28
  • Smartphone-Guided Walking Tour of University Circle Sights & Stories: $28
  • Phantom's Parade on Prospect: Cleveland Ghost Tours: $32
  • Cleveland Browns Football Game Ticket at Huntington Bank Field: $35
  • Cleveland Guardians Baseball Game Ticket at Progressive Field: $39
  • Cleveland Comedy City Tour: $39

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Richmond -
    Cleveland $45

Sample the Local Flavors in Richmond

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Richmond:

  • Richmond Virginia Bar Crawl: $15
  • Richmond Ghosts Boos and Booze Haunted Pub Crawl: $30
  • Richmond Ghosts Boos and Booze Haunted Pub Crawl : $37
  • Richmond Craft Brewery Crawl By Junket: $86
  • Brewery Tour of Richmond, VA: $90

Typical Alcohol Prices in Cleveland

Some typical examples of the costs for nightlife and alcohol in Cleveland are as follows:


  • A Night of Shots
    $36

Sample the Local Flavors in Cleveland

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Cleveland:

  • Cleveland Brewery Golf Cart Tour Experience: $60


When comparing the travel costs between Richmond and Cleveland, we can see that Richmond is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Since both cities are in North America, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

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


Which is Bigger, Richmond or Cleveland?

Cleveland has a larger population, and is about 2 times larger than the population of Richmond. When comparing the sizes of Richmond and Cleveland, 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 Richmond or Cleveland?

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 Richmond or Cleveland in the Summer?

Both Cleveland and Richmond during the summer are popular places to visit. The family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Richmond this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Cleveland for the music scene and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Richmond is around the same temperature as Cleveland. Typically, the summer temperatures in Richmond in July average around 78°F (26°C), and Cleveland averages at about 75°F (24°C).

In Cleveland, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Richmond. In the summer, Richmond often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Cleveland. Richmond gets 305 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Cleveland receives 307 hours of full sun.

Cleveland gets a good bit of rain this time of year. It rains a lot this time of the year in Richmond. Richmond usually gets more rain in July than Cleveland. Richmond gets 5 inches (128 mm) of rain, while Cleveland receives 4 inches (101 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Richmond 78°F (26°C) 
    Cleveland 75°F (24°C)

Should I visit Richmond or Cleveland in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Richmond and Cleveland. Many travelers come to Richmond for the shopping scene. Furthermore, many visitors come to Cleveland in the autumn for the shopping scene and the music scene.

In October, Richmond is generally a little warmer than Cleveland. Daily temperatures in Richmond average around 59°F (15°C), and Cleveland fluctuates around 56°F (13°C).

In Richmond, it's very sunny this time of the year. Richmond usually receives more sunshine than Cleveland during autumn. Richmond gets 221 hours of sunny skies, while Cleveland receives 165 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Richmond usually receives more rain than Cleveland. Richmond gets 3.5 inches (90 mm) of rain, while Cleveland receives 1.9 inches (49 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Richmond 59°F (15°C) 
    Cleveland 56°F (13°C)

Should I visit Richmond or Cleveland in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Richmond as well as Cleveland. Many visitors come to Richmond in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Additionally, most visitors come to Cleveland for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.


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