A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Saint Simons vs. Pittsburgh for Attractions, Food, Nightlife, and Families

Should you visit Saint Simons or Pittsburgh?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

Should I visit Saint Simons or Pittsburgh? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

Saint Simons

Saint Simons is a scenic, relaxing, and laid back island. With plenty of activities and sights, this is a small town worth visiting. Saint Simons offers plenty of beauty for visitors. It's also popular because of the shopping, food, and beaches. See Saint Simons travel costs.

Pittsburgh

Pittsburgh is a industrial, authentic, and under-rated city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. It's also known for shopping, museums, and nightlife. See Pittsburgh travel costs.

Saint Simons and Pittsburgh: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Nice resorts
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Known for its beauty
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Small town charm
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less popular with backpackers
  • Public transit not as usable
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good public transit
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with couples
  • Less popular with backpackers


Is there more to do in Saint Simons or Pittsburgh?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Pittsburgh than Saint Simons, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Pittsburgh is better known for its museums and attractions, nightlife, and big city activities, while Saint Simons is more popular for its food, resorts, beaches, hiking, shopping, small town charm, and impressive beauty. Saint Simons is more touristy than Pittsburgh and is popular for its beaches, charter fishing, and golf courses. Pittsburgh is well known for its many bridges, its steel industry, and being the home of "Mr. Roger's Neighborhood". Also, Pittsburgh is famous for Mount Washington.

How is Saint Simons different from Pittsburgh?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Saint Simons or Pittsburgh?

Saint Simons
Pittsburgh

Pittsburgh is a great destination for its museums and landmarks. However, Saint Simons is a island with minimal options for its historical sights.

Pittsburgh offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. The museums range from science and nature focused, like the Phipps Conservatory and Botanical Garden, to quirky and artsy, like the Mattress Factory. The Warhol Museum is dedicated to the works of Andy Warhol and it's not to be missed. Also worth a visit is the Heinz History Center, Randyland, and the Carnegie Museums of Art and Natural History.

While most people don't head to Saint Simons specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. St. Simons Lighthouse is a highlight for many visitors. There's a maritime museum attached to the lighthouse as well. Fort Frederica National Monument is another historic site that is worth a visit.


Is the Food Better in Saint Simons or Pittsburgh? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Saint Simons
Pittsburgh

Saint Simons is great for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Pittsburgh is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Saint Simons has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. There are more than 70 restaurants on the island that range from cafes to fine dining. You can enjoy an eggs benedict for brunch, crab cakes for lunch, and shrimp and grits for dinner. Many restaurants take advantage of the mild climate by offering outdoor seating. There are also several dessert places with ice cream or donuts.

Pittsburgh offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. The city is known for its working class roots, and the food is hearty and filling, which is great for those on a budget. Popular local dishes include pierogis, deli sandwiches, Pittsburgh salads (complete with French fries), and hotcakes.

Is Saint Simons or Pittsburgh Better for Nightlife?

Saint Simons
Pittsburgh

Pittsburgh is a great destination for nightlife. However, Saint Simons is a island with minimal options for nightlife and partying.

The people in Pittsburgh know how to have a good time. There's an active music and dance scene in town. For the best bars and clubs, head to the Strip and South Side and for live entertainment and casinos check out the North Shore.

Saint Simons doesn't have the most active nightlife scene. There are several family-friendly bars with laid back atmospheres around town, but if you're looking for a wild night out, there aren't a lot of places to go.

Is Saint Simons or Pittsburgh Better for Resorts?

Saint Simons
Pittsburgh

Saint Simons is a nice place to visit for its luxury resorts. However, Pittsburgh is not a resort destination.

Saint Simons has a few great resort options. There are a handful of nice resorts with pools and beachfront settings.

Pittsburgh is not a resort destination.


Is Saint Simons or Pittsburgh Better for Beaches?

Saint Simons
Pittsburgh

Saint Simons is great for the beach. However, Pittsburgh is not a beach destination.

You'll have a great beach vacation in Saint Simons. There's golden sand and a beautiful setting. Visitors enjoy swimming or walking along the coastline. You'll also find piers and playgrounds. East Beach is one of the most popular.

Pittsburgh is not a beach destination.

Is Saint Simons or Pittsburgh Better for Hiking?

Saint Simons
Pittsburgh

Saint Simons is a nice place to visit for hiking. However, Pittsburgh is not a hiking destination.

Saint Simons has hiking trails worth exploring. There are several parks and natural areas where you can enjoy a walk in nature. Cannon's Point Preserve has a nice trail system. Other trails on the island include John Gilbert Nature Trail, Earth Day Nature Trail, and Wanderer Memorial Trail.

Pittsburgh is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Saint Simons or Pittsburgh?

Saint Simons
Pittsburgh

Saint Simons is great for its shopping areas. Also, Pittsburgh is not as popular, but is still a nice city for shopping.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in Saint Simons. You'll find a good concentration of gift shops and clothing boutiques on the island. Antiquing is also popular. Head to Pier Village for a nice mix of shops.

Pittsburgh is a great destination for shopping. You'll find local fashion boutiques and shopping centers in the city's downtown. Other great shopping neighborhoods include Shadyside, Station Square, and Fifth Avenue Place.


Is Saint Simons or Pittsburgh More Beautiful?

Saint Simons
Pittsburgh

Saint Simons is a nice place to visit for its scenery and beauty. However, Pittsburgh is not a destination known for its beauty.

Saint Simons offers plenty of beauty for visitors. Beautiful beaches and live oaks with Spanish moss give the island a southern charm.

Pittsburgh is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Saint Simons or Pittsburgh Better for Families?

Saint Simons
Pittsburgh

Saint Simons is great for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Pittsburgh is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its family-friendly activities.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Saint Simons. The beaches are kid-friendly and there are many family-friendly restaurants in town. There's also the St. Simons Lighthouse, minigolf, and kayaking, as well as Neptune Park Fun Zone.

Pittsburgh is a family-friendly place to visit. There's a surprising number of kid-friendly activities packed into this city. Check out the National Aviary or visit the popular Pittsburgh Zoo and Aquarium. There are also kid-focused museums and science centers as well as parks and playgrounds. Also make sure you take the cable car up Duquesne Incline or enjoy a boat ride on one of the rivers as well.

Is Saint Simons or Pittsburgh Better for Couples?

Saint Simons
Pittsburgh

Saint Simons is great for couples. However, Pittsburgh is not a good destination for romance.

Saint Simons is a great island if you're traveling as a couple. There are romantic restaurants, beautiful beaches, and nice hotels. Sunset walks on the beach or a round of golf all make this a favorite couple's destination.

Pittsburgh is not the best destination for a couple to visit. There are a few good date night activities like taking river cruises, enjoying dinner and show, or going to a Pirate's game.


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

Saint Simons
Pittsburgh

Pittsburgh is a popular place for its public transit. However, Saint Simons is a island with minimal options for times when you don't have a car.

You'll find some public transit in Pittsburgh, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There are bus and lightrail options through the city's downtown. There's also the unique incline, which is an experience worth doing.

Public transit is quite limited in Saint Simons. While there are trolley tours available, public transportation is basically non-existent.

Is Saint Simons or Pittsburgh a more walkable city?

Saint Simons
Pittsburgh

Saint Simons and Pittsburgh both are notable when exploring on foot.

Saint Simons is somewhat walkable. The downtown area is walkable, but to access much of what is available, you'll want to have a car.

Pittsburgh is a somewhat walkable place. Some of the attractions are spread out, but if you're willing to do a bit of walking, it's possible to get around on foot.

For even more information, also check out Is Saint Simons Worth Visiting? and Is Pittsburgh Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Pittsburgh or Saint Simons?

How long in Saint Simons or Pittsburgh?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Saint Simons and Pittsburgh. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Saint Simons than in Pittsburgh. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Saint Simons, and 2-3 days is enough time in Pittsburgh.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Saint Simons than Pittsburgh 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 Simons.


  • How many days in Saint Simons or Pittsburgh? Ideal Length of Stay
    Saint Simons 2-4 
    Pittsburgh 2-3

One day in Saint Simons or Pittsburgh?

Saint Simons might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. Anyone can find something fun to do here. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

In Pittsburgh, many people enjoy the food and shopping that this industrial city offers. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.


A weekend in Saint Simons or Pittsburgh?

Even though Saint Simons is a small town, it has plenty of activities to choose from. It's also a great beach destination, too. It offers something for everyone. Many people spend a weekend here. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this island.

Pittsburgh is a fun place to experience. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. So, a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

Five days in Saint Simons or Pittsburgh?

Saint Simons, a popular island, is full of activities for travelers. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

You'll find museums and nightlife around the under-rated destination of Pittsburgh. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days.

A week in Saint Simons or Pittsburgh?

Saint Simons is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Pittsburgh is a popular place to visit. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in United States of America, The Best Historical Tours in United States of America, The Best 10-Day Tours in United States of America, and The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Pittsburgh or Saint Simons?

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

  • Saint Simons Prices
    USA Prices
    Pittsburgh Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Saint Simons $211
    Pittsburgh $220

The average daily cost (per person) in Saint Simons is $211, while the average daily cost in Pittsburgh is $220. 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 Simons and Pittsburgh in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Saint Simons $100
    Pittsburgh $106
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Saint Simons $200
    Pittsburgh $212
Compare Hotels in Saint Simons and Pittsburgh

Looking for a hotel in Saint Simons or Pittsburgh? 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 Simons


Hotels in Pittsburgh


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 Simons Hotel Prices and Pittsburgh Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Saint Simons $49
    Pittsburgh $22

Is it cheaper to fly into Saint Simons or Pittsburgh?

Prices for flights to both Pittsburgh and Saint Simons 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 Simons $83
    Pittsburgh $94

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Pittsburgh

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

  • Handmade Sushi Cooking Class With Local Chef in Pittsburgh: $75
  • Downtown Pittsburgh Hidden Eats Food Tour with 6 Food Tastings: $95

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Saint Simons $16
    Pittsburgh $38

Tours and Activities in Pittsburgh

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

  • Pittsburgh's Downtown Smartphone Guided Audio Walking Tour : $9.75
  • Scavenger Hunt Adventure in Pittsburgh by Crazy Dash: $10
  • Echoes from the Iron Forge: Pittsburgh Phantoms Ghost Tour: $26
  • Smartphone-Guided Tour of Downtown Pittsburgh Sights & Stories: $28
  • Reel Pittsburgh Movie Tour: $33
  • Black & Gold Sunset Tour: $33
  • Best of the Burgh Walking Tour of Pittsburgh: $33
  • Black & Ghost Tour: $33
  • Holiday Lights Tour: $33
  • JUST THE TOUR - Double Decker bus sightseeing tour of Pittsburgh.: $45
  • Whiskey Rebellion & Prohibition Tour: $45
  • HOP ON-HOP OFF TOUR PASS- All Day Sightseeing Tour Pass: $50

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Saint Simons $60
    Pittsburgh $33

Sample the Local Flavors in Pittsburgh

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

  • Pittsburgh Bar Hunt: Party Through Pittsburgh Bar Crawl: $13
  • Wigle Whiskey Rebellion Distillery Tour: $22
  • Beers in the Burgh: Pittsburgh Brewery Walk: $69
  • Bikes & Brews Tour: Pittsburgh Brewery Tour: $89
  • Pittsburgh Signature Guided Brewery Tour: $105


When comparing the travel costs between Saint Simons and Pittsburgh, we can see that Pittsburgh 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 Saint Simons Expensive? and Is Pittsburgh Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Saint Simons or Pittsburgh?

Pittsburgh has a larger population, and is about 20 times larger than the population of Saint Simons. When comparing the sizes of Saint Simons and Pittsburgh, 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.