A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Saint Louis vs. Beaufort for Attractions, Food, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Saint Louis or Beaufort?

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 Saint Louis and Beaufort. 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.

Saint Louis

Saint Louis is a under rated, unexpected, and fascinating city. It's also known for nightlife, food, and shopping. See Saint Louis travel costs.

Beaufort

Beaufort is a character-filled, southern, and charming town. As this is a charming small town, visitors also come to explore the sights and local activities. Beaufort is a gorgeous place to visit. With a quaint atmosphere, it also offers a unique feeling. It's also known for shopping, museums, and food. See Beaufort travel costs.

Saint Louis and Beaufort: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good public transit
Pros
  • Popular beach
  • Scenic old town
  • Known for its beauty
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Small town charm
  • Quaint atmosphere
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less family-friendly
  • Public transit not as usable


Is there more to do in Saint Louis or Beaufort?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Beaufort. Although Saint Louis and Beaufort are both popular with visitors, Beaufort has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Beaufort is more popular for its food, beaches, historical sights, small town charm, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere, while Saint Louis is known for its museums and attractions, nightlife, and shopping. Saint Louis is popular for its blues and live music scene, its authentic personality, and its position as the Gateway to the West. Beaufort is popular for its Lowcountry cuisine and historic homes. It is also home to Henry C. Chambers Waterfront Park.

How is Saint Louis different from Beaufort?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Saint Louis or Beaufort?

Saint Louis
Beaufort

Saint Louis is renowned for its sights and museums. Also, Beaufort is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its museums and history.

Visitors will find world class museums and historical sights in Saint Louis that are not to be missed. There are a surprising number of museums around town. For art museums you should visit the Contemporary Art Museum, the Mildred Lane Kemper Art Museum, the Saint Louis Art Museum, and the International Photography Hall of Fame and Museum. For history, the Griot Museum of Black History, the Jefferson Barracks Telephone Museum, and the Lewis & Clark Museum and Boathouse are all interesting. There are also science, educational, and children's museums. And of course, there's the iconic Gateway Arch.

Beaufort offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. The town's museums highlight the region's past. There are four popular museums that you can visit - the Beaufort History Museum, Parris Island Museum, Verdier House Museum, and York W. Bailey Museum.


Is the Food Better in Saint Louis or Beaufort? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Saint Louis
Beaufort

Beaufort is well known for its restaurant scene. Also, Saint Louis is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Beaufort makes for a great culinary experience. Soak up the charming atmosphere by dining at one of the local restaurants. Many serve Lowcountry cuisine which includes She-crab soup, fried green tomatoes, shrimp burgers, and barbecue.

Saint Louis has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. There are some local dishes that originated here. Toasted ravioli had its start in St. Louis. There's also a St. Louis style pizza. Diners, cafes, and sandwiches are all part of the food scene and be prepared for cheese, meaty, and satisfying.

Is Saint Louis or Beaufort Better for Nightlife?

Saint Louis
Beaufort

Saint Louis is a nice place to visit for nightlife. However, Beaufort is a mediocre town for nightlife and partying.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Saint Louis. Visitors often hang out in the downtown area, particularly around Washington Avenue, for the nightlife scene. Live music is popular, especially the blues, and there are many local venues worth checking out.

Those looking for nightlife will find a few places to hang out in Beaufort. You'll find bars, grills, and taverns in town, but most people don't visit for the nightlife scene.

Is Saint Louis or Beaufort Better for Beaches?

Saint Louis
Beaufort

Beaufort is a good destination for its beaches. However, Saint Louis is not a beach destination.

Beaufort offers a nice beach destination. The town has a nice waterfront, but you have to head about half an hour out of town for a real beach. One of the best options is Hunting Island State Park.

Saint Louis is not a beach destination.


Is Saint Louis or Beaufort Better for its Old Town?

Saint Louis
Beaufort

Beaufort is well known for its historic old town. However, Saint Louis does not have a historic old town.

There are many historical things to see in the old town of Beaufort. Historic homes, some that were built before the Civil War, offer a glimpse into the past. Beaufort is the second oldest town in South Carolina and it holds on to much of its charm and character.

Saint Louis does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Saint Louis or Beaufort?

Saint Louis
Beaufort

Saint Louis is notable for shopping. Also, Beaufort is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its shopping opportunities.

Saint Louis is an extremely popular place for shoppers. There are vintage stores, boutiques, and suburban strip malls around town. There are also farmer's markets and art galleries.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Beaufort. Head downtown for some souvenir shopping or to check out the art galleries or fashion boutiques.

Is Saint Louis or Beaufort More Beautiful?

Saint Louis
Beaufort

Beaufort is a good destination for its scenery and beauty. However, Saint Louis is not a destination known for its beauty.

Beaufort is a gorgeous place to visit. There are many beautiful spots to take in nature or watch the sunset.

Saint Louis is not a destination known for its beauty.


Is Saint Louis or Beaufort Better for Families?

Saint Louis
Beaufort

Saint Louis is notable for its family-friendly activities. However, Beaufort is a mediocre town for its kid-friendly activities.

Saint Louis is a very family-friendly place to visit. There's a surprising number of activities for kids around town. There's the St. Louis Zoo and the City Museum with many hands-on exhibits for kids. There's also the Crown Ridge Tiger Sanctuary and several farms with animals and nature. Forest Park is an impressive urban park as well.

Beaufort is not always a place people visit with their families. There are parks and outdoor activities in the area, but one of the best options is to head out of town to the beach.

Is Saint Louis or Beaufort Better for Couples?

Saint Louis
Beaufort

Beaufort is well known for romance. Also, Saint Louis is still popular, but not quite as popular for its romantic activities.

Couples visit Beaufort frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. There are many charming and romantic spots around town as well as historic inns where you can stay. Couples will enjoy the waterfront area or exploring one of the nature parks that are nearby. There are also quaint local restaurants that make for a nice date night.

Saint Louis makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Fine dining restaurants and eclectic activities make this city an often overlooked couples destination.

Is Saint Louis or Beaufort Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Saint Louis
Beaufort

Saint Louis is notable for its public transit. However, Beaufort is a mediocre town for times when you don't have a car.

Many visitors rely on the effecient and affordable public transportation in Saint Louis. There's a light rail system as well as buses that travel around town.

Public transit is quite limited in Beaufort. There is no reliable public transportation system in the area.


Is Saint Louis or Beaufort a more walkable city?

Saint Louis
Beaufort

Beaufort is well known for its walkability. Also, Saint Louis is still popular, but not quite as popular for its high level of walkability.

Beaufort is very walkable. The quaint downtown is walkable and offers easy access to art galleries, restaurants, and shops.

Saint Louis is a somewhat walkable place. Parts of the city are walkable, like the downtown area and the sections around the Gateway Arch.

For even more information, also check out Is Saint Louis Worth Visiting? and Is Beaufort Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Beaufort or Saint Louis?

How long in Saint Louis or Beaufort?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Saint Louis and Beaufort. You can spend similar amounts of time exploring each one. However, 1-3 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Saint Louis than Beaufort 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 Saint Louis.


  • How many days in Saint Louis or Beaufort? Ideal Length of Stay
    Saint Louis 1-3 
    Beaufort 1-3

One day in Saint Louis or Beaufort?

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

Beaufort is a small town with plenty to do. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. One day should give you a good understanding of everything this town has to offer. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A weekend in Saint Louis or Beaufort?

Saint Louis 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 Saint Louis, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Beaufort might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. This town 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 Saint Louis or Beaufort?

Saint Louis is a popular choice for travelers. It's no surprise that museums is why people visit. 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.

Because Beaufort is a small town, it's easy to explore in a short amount of time. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. 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 Saint Louis or Beaufort?

Saint Louis is a great place to explore. It's no surprise that museums is why people visit. 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.

Since Beaufort is a small town, it's easily explored when your time is limited. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. 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.


Which place is cheaper, Beaufort or Saint Louis?

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

  • Saint Louis Prices
    USA Prices
    Beaufort Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Saint Louis $224
    Beaufort $154

The average daily cost (per person) in Saint Louis is $224, while the average daily cost in Beaufort is $154. 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 Saint Louis and Beaufort in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Saint Louis $101
    Beaufort $100
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Saint Louis $202
    Beaufort $200
Compare Hotels in Saint Louis and Beaufort

Looking for a hotel in Saint Louis or Beaufort? 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 Saint Louis


Hotels in Beaufort


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: Saint Louis Hotel Prices and Beaufort Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Saint Louis $26
    Beaufort -

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Saint Louis

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Saint Louis:

  • Arrival transfer St. Louis Airport STL to St. Louis by Car or SUV: $125
  • Departure Transfer St. Louis to St. Louis Airport by Car or SUV: $125
  • St. Louis Lambert Airport (STL) to St. Louis City - Arrival Private Transfer: $142

Is it cheaper to fly into Saint Louis or Beaufort?

Prices for flights to both Beaufort and Saint Louis 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
    Saint Louis $93
    Beaufort $54

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Saint Louis

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

  • Dinner Detective True Crime Murder Mystery Show - St. Louis, MO: $89

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Saint Louis $46
    Beaufort -
Typical Entertainment Prices in Saint Louis

Here are a few typical costs in Saint Louis for activities, ticket prices, and tours that come from previous visitors:


  • Gateway Arch parking
    $6.00

Tours and Activities in Saint Louis

Here are a few actual costs in Saint Louis for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • Downtown St. Louis Smartphone Guided Audio Walking Tour App: $7.75
  • Interstate 55: A Self-Guided Driving Tour: $9.99
  • St. Louis Blues Ice Hockey Game Ticket at Enterprise Center: $13
  • Gateway Arch National Park Self Guided Audio Walking Tour: $15
  • Saint Louis Self Guided Driving and Walking Audio Tour: $17
  • Landmarks Downtown-West Walking Tour: $17
  • Landmarks Downtown-East Walking Tour: $17
  • Scavenger Hunt Adventure in St. Louis by Zombie Scavengers: $20
  • Lemp Haunted Neighborhood Walking Tour: $27
  • St Louis Ghost Tours: Sinister Sins & Shadows Ghost Tour : $30
  • St. Louis Soulard True Crime Tour: Historic Murders & Gangsters: $30
  • St. Louis Narrated Trolley Tour: $30

Tours and Activities in Beaufort

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

  • Historic City Tour by Bus: $37
  • Local History and Film Sites Tour by golf cart: $38
  • Pat Conroy's Beaufort Tour by Golf Cart: $48
  • Gullah Heritage Tour: $52
  • Beaufort Tipsy Tour: $59

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Saint Louis $19
    Beaufort -

Sample the Local Flavors in Saint Louis

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Saint Louis:

  • The Haunted Lemp Brewery Bottle Works Tour: $25


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

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


Which is Bigger, Saint Louis or Beaufort?

Saint Louis has a larger population, and is about 30 times larger than the population of Beaufort. When comparing the sizes of Saint Louis and Beaufort, 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 Saint Louis or Beaufort?

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 Saint Louis or Beaufort in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Saint Louis and Beaufort. Many visitors come to Saint Louis in the summer for the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Beaufort for the beaches, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

Saint Louis is around the same temperature as Beaufort in the summer. The daily temperature in Saint Louis averages around 81°F (27°C) in July, and Beaufort fluctuates around 82°F (28°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Beaufort this time of the year. In Saint Louis, it's very sunny this time of the year. Saint Louis usually receives more sunshine than Beaufort during summer. Saint Louis gets 309 hours of sunny skies, while Beaufort receives 267 hours of full sun in the summer.

Beaufort receives a lot of rain in the summer. In July, Saint Louis usually receives less rain than Beaufort. Saint Louis gets 3.8 inches (96 mm) of rain, while Beaufort receives 7.9 inches (200 mm) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Saint Louis 81°F (27°C) 
    Beaufort 82°F (28°C)

Should I visit Saint Louis or Beaufort in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Saint Louis as well as Beaufort. Most visitors come to Saint Louis for the shopping scene during these months. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Beaufort because of the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Saint Louis is cooler than Beaufort. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Saint Louis in October average around 60°F (16°C), and Beaufort averages at about 68°F (20°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Beaufort. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Saint Louis this time of the year. In the autumn, Saint Louis often gets less sunshine than Beaufort. Saint Louis gets 203 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Beaufort receives 223 hours of full sun.

Saint Louis usually gets around the same amount of rain in October as Beaufort. Saint Louis gets 2.7 inches (68 mm) of rain, while Beaufort receives 2.8 inches (71 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Saint Louis 60°F (16°C) 
    Beaufort 68°F (20°C)

Should I visit Saint Louis or Beaufort in the Winter?

Both Beaufort and Saint Louis are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The winter months attract visitors to Saint Louis because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Beaufort this time of year.

The weather in Saint Louis can be very cold. In January, Saint Louis is generally much colder than Beaufort. Daily temperatures in Saint Louis average around 31°F (-1°C), and Beaufort fluctuates around 48°F (9°C).

Saint Louis usually receives less sunshine than Beaufort during winter. Saint Louis gets 160 hours of sunny skies, while Beaufort receives 176 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Saint Louis usually receives less rain than Beaufort. Saint Louis gets 2 inches (52 mm) of rain, while Beaufort receives 2.9 inches (74 mm) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Saint Louis 31°F (-1°C) 
    Beaufort 48°F (9°C)

Should I visit Saint Louis or Beaufort in the Spring?

Both Beaufort and Saint Louis during the spring are popular places to visit. Furthermore, many travelers come to Beaufort for the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty.

Saint Louis is cooler than Beaufort in the spring. The daily temperature in Saint Louis averages around 58°F (15°C) in April, and Beaufort fluctuates around 67°F (19°C).

In Beaufort, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Saint Louis. In the spring, Saint Louis often gets less sunshine than Beaufort. Saint Louis gets 229 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Beaufort receives 275 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Saint Louis. Saint Louis usually gets more rain in April than Beaufort. Saint Louis gets 4.4 inches (111 mm) of rain, while Beaufort receives 2.9 inches (74 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Saint Louis 58°F (15°C) 
    Beaufort 67°F (19°C)

Typical Weather for Beaufort and Saint Louis

Saint Louis Beaufort
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 31°F (-1°C) 2 inches (52 mm) 48°F (9°C) 2.9 inches (74 mm)
Feb 35°F (2°C) 2.1 inches (53 mm) 52°F (11°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm)
Mar 47°F (8°C) 3.6 inches (91 mm) 58°F (15°C) 4.4 inches (112 mm)
Apr 58°F (15°C) 4.4 inches (111 mm) 67°F (19°C) 2.9 inches (74 mm)
May 68°F (20°C) 4.1 inches (103 mm) 73°F (23°C) 4.2 inches (107 mm)
Jun 77°F (25°C) 3.8 inches (97 mm) 80°F (26°C) 5.9 inches (150 mm)
Jul 81°F (27°C) 3.8 inches (96 mm) 82°F (28°C) 7.9 inches (200 mm)
Aug 79°F (26°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm) 81°F (27°C) 6.5 inches (164 mm)
Sep 72°F (22°C) 3.1 inches (80 mm) 77°F (25°C) 5.6 inches (141 mm)
Oct 60°F (16°C) 2.7 inches (68 mm) 68°F (20°C) 2.8 inches (71 mm)
Nov 48°F (9°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm) 59°F (15°C) 1.9 inches (49 mm)
Dec 35°F (2°C) 3 inches (77 mm) 52°F (11°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm)