A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Santa Barbara vs. Niagara Falls for Hiking, Families, Couples, and Attractions

Should you visit Santa Barbara or Niagara Falls?

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

Should I visit Santa Barbara or Niagara Falls? 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.

Santa Barbara

Santa Barbara is a scenic, stunning, and wealthy coastal town. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. You'll find world class beauty in Santa Barbara as well. This destination also has one of those special and quaint feelings. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife. See Santa Barbara travel costs.

Niagara Falls

Niagara Falls is a impressive, iconic, and breathtaking city. With stunning beauty, Niagara Falls attracts visitors from all around. Other popular activities here include nightlife, food, and hiking. See Niagara Falls travel costs.

Santa Barbara and Niagara Falls: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Santa Barbara or Niagara Falls?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Santa Barbara. Although Santa Barbara and Niagara Falls are about the same size, Santa Barbara has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Niagara Falls is more touristy than Santa Barbara and is known for the large volume of water that flows over it. Santa Barbara is popular for its historic missions, pristine beaches, world-class surfing, and scenic hikes that are full of coastal views. It is also home to The Old Mission Santa Barbara.

How is Santa Barbara different from Niagara Falls?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Santa Barbara or Niagara Falls?

Santa Barbara is notable for its sights and museums. However, Niagara Falls is a mediocre city for its museums and history.

Santa Barbara offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. The city is famous for its missions, with Mission Santa Barbara being the most iconic. Also visit the Santa Barbara Museum of Natural History and Sea Center.

While most people don't head to Niagara Falls specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. The Niagara Falls History Museum is one of the best museums in the area. There are also more touristy museums and attractions that you can visit as well. There's also a butterfly conservancy that is worth checking out.

Is the Food Better in Santa Barbara or Niagara Falls? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Santa Barbara is notable for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Niagara Falls is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its restaurants.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Santa Barbara. The city is best known for its fine dining, particularly if you enjoy seafood. The scallops, oysters, clam chowder, and sea urchin (when available) are all world class. Head for a waterfront setting for the best views and some of the freshest seafood.

Niagara Falls is becoming an appealing option for foodies. It's an iconic Canadian destination so, of course, you should try all things Canadian while you're in town. Maple syrup, poutine, butter tart, and beavertail (fried dough) are all things that should be on your list. Also make sure you sample some of the local game meat.

Is Santa Barbara or Niagara Falls Better for Nightlife?

Both Santa Barbara and Niagara Falls are good when it comes to partying.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Santa Barbara. For the best nightlife in the city, head downtown to State Street. This is where you'll find the most active bars and biggest crowds. There's a large student population in town, so you'll find much of the nightlife scene is focused on the younger population.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Niagara Falls. There's a decent concentration of clubs, pubs, and bars around town that keep things fun late into the evening.

Is Santa Barbara or Niagara Falls Better for Resorts?

Santa Barbara is notable for its resorts. However, Niagara Falls is not a resort destination.

Santa Barbara is known as a popular and fun resort destination. Many people enjoy the luxurious vacation rentals around Santa Barbara, but there are also a number of high end resorts including the Rosewood Miramar Beach Resort, The Ritz-Carlton, and Hotel Californian.

Niagara Falls is not a resort destination.

Is Santa Barbara or Niagara Falls Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Santa Barbara is a moderate coastal town for its diving and snorkeling. However, Niagara Falls is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Snorkeling is an option in Santa Barbara. Snorkeling areas not far from town include Refugio State Beach and Tajiguas. You'll see a few fish, beautiful rocks, and anemones that are unique and impressive.

Niagara Falls is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Santa Barbara or Niagara Falls Better for Beaches?

Santa Barbara is an amazing coastal town to visit for the beach. However, Niagara Falls is not a beach destination.

Travelers come from around the world to visit the beaches in Santa Barbara. The city is famous for its pristine, sandy beaches. Whether you want to enjoy world class surfing or enjoy a gentle ocean setting, Santa Barbara has many options.

Niagara Falls is not a beach destination.

Is Santa Barbara or Niagara Falls Better for its Old Town?

Santa Barbara is a popular place for its old town. However, Niagara Falls does not have a historic old town.

Many people head to Santa Barbara to see the old town. The city's downtown "Old Town" is a high end, pedestrian-friendly area with plenty of shopping, dining, and entertainment options.

Niagara Falls does not have a historic old town.

Is Santa Barbara or Niagara Falls Better for Hiking?

Santa Barbara is an amazing coastal town to visit for the nearby hiking options. Also, Niagara Falls is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its hiking trails.

People visit Santa Barbara specifically for its hiking, as the natural beauty is well-known. Just outside of town are countless hiking opportunities that offer spectacular ocean views. Popular hikes include Inspiration Point, San Ysidro Trail, and Cold Spring East Fork.

Many visitors explore the nearby hiking trails while visiting Niagara Falls. The nearby area is filled with hiking trails that let you escape into nature and enjoy impressive views.

Is the Shopping Better in Santa Barbara or Niagara Falls?

Santa Barbara is an amazing coastal town to visit for its shopping opportunities. Also, Niagara Falls is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its shopping areas.

The abundance of shops in Santa Barbara make it a world-class shopping destination. The city is famous as a high end shopping destination. Head to State Street for a palm tree lined street with local boutiques.

Niagara Falls has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. You'll find touristy souvenir shops as well as outlets and malls nearby.

Is Santa Barbara or Niagara Falls More Beautiful?

Santa Barbara is an amazing coastal town to visit for its scenery and beauty. Also, Niagara Falls is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its scenery and beauty.

You'll find world class beauty in Santa Barbara as well. The city is beautifully situated right by the ocean and offers stunning views and and an amazing setting. It is also filled with opulent houses and grand estates, giving it an air of grandeur.

With stunning beauty, Niagara Falls attracts visitors from all around. It's an impressive sight and the Canadian side offers the best views. It's definitely something you should try and see at least once.

Is Santa Barbara or Niagara Falls Better for Families?

Niagara Falls is renowned for its family-friendly activities. Also, Santa Barbara is not as famous, but is still a good coastal town to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

As it has a large number of activities for kids, Niagara Falls is a very family-friendly destination. The views and setting are spectacular, and kids will love the boat tours or taking a ride on the Whirlpool Aero Car. There's also an indoor waterpark, a butterfly conservatory, and plenty of nature to explore.

Santa Barbara is a very family-friendly destination. The city has some nice family-friendly activities including a zoo, some cool museums, and even whale watching. There are also many beautiful beaches where everyone can run around and play, as well as parks and other outdoor settings. For animal-lovers, there are wildlife centers and sea life opportunities.

Is Santa Barbara or Niagara Falls Better for Couples?

Santa Barbara is an amazing coastal town to visit for its romantic activities. Also, Niagara Falls is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for couples.

Santa Barbara makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. The town is a stunningly beautiful destination with beautiful beaches, excellent shopping, and nice resorts that make for a great honeymoon or romantic trip.

Niagara Falls makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. The setting has long brought to mind romance, and to this day couples still honeymoon at this iconic destination. There are boat tours, nature trails, luxury hotels, and even wineries to explore.

Is Santa Barbara or Niagara Falls Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Niagara Falls is a popular place for backpackers. However, Santa Barbara is not a good coastal town for backpackers and budget travelers.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Niagara Falls. There's a hostel or two where you can stay for cheap and meet other travelers.

Santa Barbara is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. The city isn't really known as a budget friendly destination, but there are a couple of hostels in the area. There's also a large student population with a fun nightlife scene.

Is Santa Barbara or Niagara Falls Better for Students?

Santa Barbara is notable for students. However, Niagara Falls is not popular with students.

Santa Barbara is a very popular coastal town for students and younger travelers. With a major university right in town, there's plenty of student life that international students or locals can enjoy.

Niagara Falls is not popular with students.

Is Santa Barbara or Niagara Falls Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Both Santa Barbara and Niagara Falls offer good public transit options.

Santa Barbara has a few public transit options. Transit options include buses, trolleys and water taxis.

Niagara Falls has some public transit options. There is a bus system through town.

Is Santa Barbara or Niagara Falls a more walkable city?

Santa Barbara is notable for its high level of walkability. Also, Niagara Falls is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its ease of walking around.

Santa Barbara is a very walkable coastal town. The downtown area is very pedestrian-friendly and best explored on foot.

Niagara Falls is a somewhat walkable coastal town. Most of the attractions and close together by the falls, so it's relatively walkable.

For even more information, also check out Is Santa Barbara Worth Visiting? and Is Niagara Falls Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Niagara Falls or Santa Barbara?

How long in Santa Barbara or Niagara Falls?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Santa Barbara and Niagara Falls. In our opinion, Santa Barbara has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Santa Barbara than Niagara Falls. However, 2-3 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Santa Barbara than Niagara Falls 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 Santa Barbara.

One day in Santa Barbara or Niagara Falls?

Many travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the stunning destination of Santa Barbara. It's also a relaxing resort destination. Your budget might influence how long you stay. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

Many travelers enjoy the shopping and nightlife when visiting the breathtaking destination of Niagara Falls. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. Your budget might influence how long you stay. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

A weekend in Santa Barbara or Niagara Falls?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Santa Barbara. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. A weekend is usually enough time to experience most activities.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Niagara Falls. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. A weekend is usually enough time to experience most activities.

Five days in Santa Barbara or Niagara Falls?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the pristine destination of Santa Barbara. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. This coastal town offers a variety of activities to choose from. 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.

Travelers enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the impressive destination of Niagara Falls. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. 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.

A week in Santa Barbara or Niagara Falls?

You'll find food and shopping around the beautiful coastal town of Santa Barbara. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

You'll find shopping and nightlife around the beautiful city of Niagara Falls. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Train & Rail Tours in United States of America, The Best Sightseeing Tours in United States of America, The Best Sightseeing Tours in Canada, and The Best Camping Tours in Canada.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Santa Barbara or Niagara Falls?

Santa Barbara has a larger population, and is about 6% larger than the population of Niagara Falls. When comparing the sizes of Santa Barbara and Niagara Falls, 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 Santa Barbara or Niagara Falls?

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 Santa Barbara or Niagara Falls in the Summer?

Both Niagara Falls and Santa Barbara are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The summer months attract visitors to Santa Barbara because of the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, the hiking and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Niagara Falls this time of year.

In July, Santa Barbara is generally cooler than Niagara Falls. Daily temperatures in Santa Barbara average around 65°F (19°C), and Niagara Falls fluctuates around 23°C (74°F).

In July, Santa Barbara usually receives less rain than Niagara Falls. Santa Barbara gets 0 inches (1 mm) of rain, while Niagara Falls receives 69 mm (2.7 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Santa Barbara or Niagara Falls in the Autumn?

Both Niagara Falls and Santa Barbara during the autumn are popular places to visit. The hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Santa Barbara this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Niagara Falls for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

Santa Barbara is a little warmer than Niagara Falls in the autumn. The daily temperature in Santa Barbara averages around 62°F (17°C) in October, and Niagara Falls fluctuates around 12°C (54°F).

Santa Barbara usually gets less rain in October than Niagara Falls. Santa Barbara gets 0.5 inches (13 mm) of rain, while Niagara Falls receives 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Santa Barbara or Niagara Falls in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Santa Barbara and Niagara Falls. Many travelers come to Santa Barbara for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Furthermore, many visitors come to Niagara Falls in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Niagara Falls can get quite cold in the winter. In the winter, Santa Barbara is much warmer than Niagara Falls. Typically, the winter temperatures in Santa Barbara in January average around 52°F (11°C), and Niagara Falls averages at about -4°C (26°F).

In January, Santa Barbara usually receives more rain than Niagara Falls. Santa Barbara gets 3.2 inches (82 mm) of rain, while Niagara Falls receives 52 mm (2 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Santa Barbara or Niagara Falls in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Santa Barbara as well as Niagara Falls. Many visitors come to Santa Barbara in the spring for the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty. Additionally, most visitors come to Niagara Falls for the natural beauty during these months.

In April, Santa Barbara is generally a little warmer than Niagara Falls. Daily temperatures in Santa Barbara average around 57°F (14°C), and Niagara Falls fluctuates around 10°C (49°F).

Santa Barbara usually gets less rain in April than Niagara Falls. Santa Barbara gets 1.1 inches (27 mm) of rain, while Niagara Falls receives 63 mm (2.5 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Niagara Falls and Santa Barbara