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

Should you visit Saint Louis or Nantucket?

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 Nantucket. 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. Other reasons to visit include museums, nightlife, and food. See Saint Louis travel costs.

Nantucket

Nantucket is a peaceful, upscale, and charming island. As this is a charming small town, visitors also come to explore the sights and local activities. Nantucket is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for nightlife, food, and beaches. See Nantucket travel costs.

Saint Louis and Nantucket: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for food
  • Less popular with couples
  • Less popular with backpackers
Pros
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Nice resorts
  • Popular beach
  • Scenic old town
  • Good for hiking
  • Known for its beauty
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Small town charm
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • Less popular with backpackers


Is there more to do in Saint Louis or Nantucket?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Nantucket. Although Saint Louis and Nantucket are both popular with visitors, Nantucket has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Nantucket is more popular for its food, resorts, beaches, historical sights, hiking, small town charm, and impressive beauty, while Saint Louis is known for its museums and attractions. Nantucket is more touristy than Saint Louis and is popular for its pristine beaches, upscale atmosphere, and history of whaling. It is also home to Great Point Lighthouse. Saint Louis is popular for its blues and live music scene, its authentic personality, and its position as the Gateway to the West.

How is Saint Louis different from Nantucket?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Saint Louis
Nantucket

Saint Louis is renowned for its historical sights. Also, Nantucket is not as popular, but is still a nice island for its sights and museums.

Travelers visit Saint Louis from around the world to see its many world-famous attractions. 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.

Nantucket offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. There are several museums around town that educate visitors on the island's whaling history and maritime past.


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

Saint Louis
Nantucket

Nantucket is an amazing island to visit for its restaurant scene. Also, Saint Louis is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

Eat your way through Nantucket, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. Upscale eateries where you can look out on the water make dining on this island a true experience. There are raw bars, seafood restaurants, and local cafes with elaborate salads and duck carnitas. Dishes usually use the highest quality fresh ingredients and chefs bring their "A game" with every customer.

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 Nantucket Better for Nightlife?

Saint Louis
Nantucket

Party-goers will find similar levels of energy in Saint Louis and Nantucket.

Saint Louis has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. 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.

If you're looking for night time activities Nantucket has a few options to choose from. You'll find a number of bars and a lively singles scene in town. There's also live music and a laid back but active atmosphere in the evening.

Is Saint Louis or Nantucket Better for Resorts?

Saint Louis
Nantucket

Nantucket is well known for its resorts. However, Saint Louis is not a resort destination.

There are plenty of resorts in Nantucket to choose from. Luxury resorts and upscale inns offer guests a relaxed setting with oceanfront views and family-friendly activities.

Saint Louis is not a resort destination.


Is Saint Louis or Nantucket Better for Beaches?

Saint Louis
Nantucket

Nantucket is well known for its beaches. However, Saint Louis is not a beach destination.

Many people visit Nantucket for it's beautiful beaches. You'll find the calmest water at the northern beaches, and cooler water with rougher surf to the south. Many of the beaches are accessible from town, but parking can be limited. There are both public and private beaches, each with beautiful settings and relaxing vibes.

Saint Louis is not a beach destination.

Is Saint Louis or Nantucket Better for its Old Town?

Saint Louis
Nantucket

Nantucket 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 Nantucket. The Historic District is filled with New England charm, cobblestone streets, and upscale boutiques. There are many great restaurants and a lot of historic character.

Saint Louis does not have a historic old town.

Is Saint Louis or Nantucket Better for Hiking?

Saint Louis
Nantucket

Nantucket is well known for its hiking experiences. However, Saint Louis is not a hiking destination.

You'll find a nice variety of hiking trails around Nantucket. The island is easy to explore on foot, and its covered with hiking trails that follow the serene coastline or take you through forests, bogs, and marshland.

Saint Louis is not a hiking destination.


Is the Shopping Better in Saint Louis or Nantucket?

Saint Louis
Nantucket

Shopping is a popular activity in both Nantucket and Saint Louis.

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.

Nantucket is well-known for its shopping. The Historic District is filled with boutiques, art galleries, and upscale shops. It's the perfect place to spend an afternoon wandering around and shopping.

Is Saint Louis or Nantucket More Beautiful?

Saint Louis
Nantucket

Nantucket is well known for its scenery and beauty. However, Saint Louis is not a destination known for its beauty.

Nantucket is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Natural beauty and charming character make this a picturesque destination.

Saint Louis is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Saint Louis or Nantucket Better for Families?

Saint Louis
Nantucket

Both Saint Louis and Nantucket are high quality family-friendly destinations.

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.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Nantucket is very family-friendly. There's a calm beach that's perfect for kids as well as quaint ice cream shops and plenty of New England charm. The town is also filled with hiking and biking trails.


Is Saint Louis or Nantucket Better for Couples?

Saint Louis
Nantucket

Nantucket is an amazing island to visit for romance. Also, Saint Louis is still popular, but not quite as popular for its romantic activities.

Nantucket is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. The New England charm, natural beauty, and relaxing coastal atmosphere make this a perfect romantic destination. There are also many romantic places to stay and great local restaurants.

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 Nantucket Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Saint Louis
Nantucket

Saint Louis is a great city for times when you don't have a car. Also, Nantucket is not as popular, but is still a nice island for its public transit.

Public transit in Saint Louis is fairly effecient and thorough. There's a light rail system as well as buses that travel around town.

Nantucket has a few public transit options. There are shuttle buses around the island that operate with greater frequency during the summer months.

Is Saint Louis or Nantucket a more walkable city?

Saint Louis
Nantucket

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

Nantucket is very walkable. The town is very walkable and parking can be challenging, so it's best to leave your car in the ferry parking lot.

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 Nantucket Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Nantucket or Saint Louis?

How long in Saint Louis or Nantucket?

It's fun to spend time in either Saint Louis or Nantucket. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Nantucket due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Saint Louis, and 2-4 days is enough time in Nantucket.

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

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

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


  • How many days in Saint Louis or Nantucket? Ideal Length of Stay
    Saint Louis 1-3 
    Nantucket 2-4

One day in Saint Louis or Nantucket?

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

Nantucket is a small town with plenty to do. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Most people visit for the food. 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 Saint Louis or Nantucket?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the under rated destination of Saint Louis. 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.

Nantucket might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. This island 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 Nantucket?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the fascinating city of Saint Louis. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Most people head to the area for the museums. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Because Nantucket is a small town, it's easy to explore in a short amount of time. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. 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 Nantucket?

Saint Louis 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.

Since Nantucket is a small town, it's easily explored when your time is limited. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. Most people visit for the food. 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, Nantucket 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
    Nantucket Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Saint Louis $224
    Nantucket $409

The average daily cost (per person) in Saint Louis is $224, while the average daily cost in Nantucket is $409. 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 Nantucket in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Saint Louis $101
    Nantucket $237
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Saint Louis $202
    Nantucket $474
Compare Hotels in Saint Louis and Nantucket

Looking for a hotel in Saint Louis or Nantucket? 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 Nantucket


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 Nantucket Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Saint Louis $26
    Nantucket $47

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Saint Louis

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Saint Louis:

  • St. Louis Lambert Airport (STL) to St. Louis City - Arrival Private Transfer: $142
  • 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

Is it cheaper to fly into Saint Louis or Nantucket?

Prices for flights to both Nantucket 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
    Nantucket $141

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
    Nantucket $34
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:

  • "StL's Best Sights and Bites" - Your Private Tour in St. Louis : $165
  • Downtown St. Louis Smartphone Guided Audio Walking Tour App: $7.75
  • Gateway Arch National Park Self Guided Audio Walking Tour: $15
  • Interstate 55: A Self-Guided Driving Tour: $9.99
  • Landmarks Downtown-East Walking Tour: $17
  • Landmarks Downtown-West Walking Tour: $17
  • Lemp Haunted Neighborhood Walking Tour: $27
  • Museum of Illusions St Louis Admission Ticket: $35
  • Private St. Louis Gastronomy Tour (BBQ Joints & Breweries): $129
  • Private Tour of The Hill, The "Little Italy" of Saint Louis: $165
  • Private Walking Tour of Saint Louis' Fascinating History: $159
  • Saint Louis Self Guided Driving and Walking Audio Tour: $17

Tours and Activities in Nantucket

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Nantucket.

  • Beyond the Cobblestones Self Guided Audio Tour of Nantucket: $9.99
  • Beyond the Cobblestones Self Guided Walking Tour of Nantucket: $9.99
  • Nantucket Coast to Coast Self-Guided Biking or Driving Tour: $13
  • Discover Nantucket Self-Guided Biking or Driving Tour: $13
  • Historical Landmarks Sightseeing Bus Tour: $53
  • Historical Tour of Nantucket: $57
  • Downtown Walking Tour: $120
  • Guided Bike Tour: $160
  • Guided Scenic Island Driving Tour: $160

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Saint Louis $19
    Nantucket $35

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

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 Nantucket Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Saint Louis or Nantucket?

Saint Louis has a larger population, and is about 20 times larger than the population of Nantucket. When comparing the sizes of Saint Louis and Nantucket, 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 Nantucket?

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 Saint Louis or Nantucket in the Summer?

Both Nantucket and Saint Louis during the summer are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Saint Louis for the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, many visitors come to Nantucket in the summer for the beaches, the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences.

Saint Louis is a little warmer than Nantucket in the summer. The daily temperature in Saint Louis averages around 81°F (27°C) in July, and Nantucket fluctuates around 68°F (20°C).

Saint Louis usually gets around the same amount of rain in July as Nantucket. Saint Louis gets 3.8 inches (96 mm) of rain, while Nantucket receives 3.8 inches (96 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Saint Louis 81°F (27°C) 
    Nantucket 68°F (20°C)

Should I visit Saint Louis or Nantucket in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Saint Louis and Nantucket. Many visitors come to Saint Louis in the autumn for the shopping scene. Furthermore, most visitors come to Nantucket for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

In the autumn, Saint Louis is a little warmer than Nantucket. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Saint Louis in October average around 60°F (16°C), and Nantucket averages at about 53°F (12°C).

Nantucket receives a lot of rain in the autumn. In October, Saint Louis usually receives less rain than Nantucket. Saint Louis gets 2.7 inches (68 mm) of rain, while Nantucket receives 4.4 inches (111 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Saint Louis 60°F (16°C) 
    Nantucket 53°F (12°C)

Should I visit Saint Louis or Nantucket in the Winter?

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

The weather in Nantucket can be very cold. Saint Louis can be very cold during winter. In January, Saint Louis is generally cooler than Nantucket. Daily temperatures in Saint Louis average around 31°F (-1°C), and Nantucket fluctuates around 31°F (-0°C).

It's quite rainy in Nantucket. Saint Louis usually gets less rain in January than Nantucket. Saint Louis gets 2 inches (52 mm) of rain, while Nantucket receives 4.2 inches (106 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Saint Louis 31°F (-1°C) 
    Nantucket 31°F (-0°C)

Should I visit Saint Louis or Nantucket in the Spring?

Both Nantucket and Saint Louis are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Also, the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty are the main draw to Nantucket this time of year.

Saint Louis is much warmer than Nantucket in the spring. The daily temperature in Saint Louis averages around 58°F (15°C) in April, and Nantucket fluctuates around 45°F (7°C).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Nantucket. It's quite rainy in Saint Louis. In April, Saint Louis usually receives around the same amount of rain as Nantucket. Saint Louis gets 4.4 inches (111 mm) of rain, while Nantucket receives 4.1 inches (103 mm) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Saint Louis 58°F (15°C) 
    Nantucket 45°F (7°C)

Typical Weather for Nantucket and Saint Louis

Saint Louis Nantucket
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 31°F (-1°C) 2 inches (52 mm) 31°F (-0°C) 4.2 inches (106 mm)
Feb 35°F (2°C) 2.1 inches (53 mm) 32°F (-0°C) 4.6 inches (117 mm)
Mar 47°F (8°C) 3.6 inches (91 mm) 38°F (3°C) 4 inches (102 mm)
Apr 58°F (15°C) 4.4 inches (111 mm) 45°F (7°C) 4.1 inches (103 mm)
May 68°F (20°C) 4.1 inches (103 mm) 53°F (12°C) 3.9 inches (99 mm)
Jun 77°F (25°C) 3.8 inches (97 mm) 62°F (17°C) 3.6 inches (91 mm)
Jul 81°F (27°C) 3.8 inches (96 mm) 68°F (20°C) 3.8 inches (96 mm)
Aug 79°F (26°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm) 68°F (20°C) 3.1 inches (78 mm)
Sep 72°F (22°C) 3.1 inches (80 mm) 62°F (17°C) 4.2 inches (106 mm)
Oct 60°F (16°C) 2.7 inches (68 mm) 53°F (12°C) 4.4 inches (111 mm)
Nov 48°F (9°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm) 46°F (8°C) 3.8 inches (96 mm)
Dec 35°F (2°C) 3 inches (77 mm) 36°F (2°C) 4.5 inches (115 mm)