A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Seattle vs. Hilo for Hiking, Attractions, Food, and Nightlife

Should you visit Seattle or Hilo?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Seattle or Hilo, this travel comparison, which includes costs, can help. The overall cost of travel is usually a consideration when deciding where to go next, and the cost comparison down below can help you decide based on the average prices from other travelers along with your own travel budget.

Seattle

Seattle is a cultural, outdoorsy, and laid-back city. As it's a big city, visitors will find plenty to do, too. Seattle offers plenty of beauty for visitors. It's also popular because of the theater, nightlife, and live music. See Seattle travel costs.

Hilo

Hilo is a authentic, laid back, and mellow town. With stunning beauty, Hilo attracts visitors from all around. Other popular activities here include food, beaches, and hiking. See Hilo travel costs.

Seattle and Hilo: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Seattle or Hilo?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Seattle. Although Seattle and Hilo are popular destinations, Seattle has more sights and attractions for tourists. Seattle is very popular for its museums and attractions, theatre productions, nightlife, music, shopping, and big city activities, while Hilo attracts visitors for its resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, hiking, and impressive beauty. Seattle is famous for its beautiful waterfront setting, diverse culinary scene, thriving art and cultural venues, and being the home of many international tech companies. It is also well known for The Space Needle. Hilo is famous for its nearby rainforests, waterfalls, and green gardens.

How is Seattle different from Hilo?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Seattle or Hilo?

Seattle is a great city for its historical sights. Also, Hilo is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its sights and museums.

Seattle offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. The city's most iconic landmark is the Space Needle. There's also a zoo, aquarium, and a handful of nice museums. Several favorites include the Chihuly Garden and Glass, the Museum of History & Industry, and the Seattle Art Museum.

Hilo is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. Top museums in and around town include the Lyman Museum, the Pacific Tsunami Museum, Imiloa Astronomy Center, and Mokupapapa Discovery Center.

Is Seattle or Hilo Better for Theater?

Seattle is a popular place for its shows and theatre. However, Hilo is not a theatre destination.

If you have some extra time in Seattle, take in a show. There are a handful of theaters where you can enjoy traveling Broadway shows or smaller productions.

Hilo is not a theatre destination.

Is the Food Better in Seattle or Hilo? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

There are opportunities to sample the local cuisine at very good restaurants in both Seattle and Hilo.

Dining out in Seattle is an experience not to be missed. The city has many diverse dining options that make it a popular foodie destination. The seafood is world-class with many restaurants offering fresh caught salmon and oysters. There are also many great Asian restaurants with Pho, sushi, and dim sum all being popular around town. Seattle is also famous as the birthplace of Starbucks coffee, and both chain and independent coffee shops are common. Finally, make sure you check out the donuts at Pike's Place Market.

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in Hilo. This is the largest city on the island and you'll find a restaurant scene that caters to both locals and tourists. There are a number of local dishes that you can try such as Pla Rad Prik (a Thai fish dish), mushroom pot pie, and crab and avocado melt.

Is Seattle or Hilo Better for Nightlife?

Seattle is a great city for its evening party scene. However, Hilo is not known for nightlife.

The nightlife in Seattle has something for everybody. The city is known for its breweries and eclectic nightlife scene. There is a thriving theater scene as well as many bars and trendy restaurants. The best neighborhoods for nightlife include Capitol Hill, Belltown, and Downtown.

Most people don't head to Hilo specifically for the nightlife scene, but you can find a few options. It's a town that goes to bed early, but there are some local bars that have a chill and relaxing atmosphere.

Is Seattle or Hilo Better for Music?

Seattle is a great city for its music scene. However, Hilo is not a live music destination.

Seattle has a thriving music scene. The city has developed its own music culture around several genres including alternative rock and grunge.

Hilo is not a live music destination.

Is Seattle or Hilo Better for Resorts?

Hilo is a moderate town for its resorts. However, Seattle is not a resort destination.

You might not think of Hilo as a resort destination, but it has a few places. You'll find more hotels than resorts in town.

Seattle is not a resort destination.

Is Seattle or Hilo Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Hilo is a moderate town for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Seattle is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Snorkeling is an option in Hilo. Richardsons Ocean Park is the best snorkeling spot nearby but, in general, the water near town has poor visibility because of the frequent rain.

Seattle is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Seattle or Hilo Better for Beaches?

Both Seattle and Hilo have nice beaches worth visiting.

Seattle has a beach worth visiting. The city is surrounded by water so there are a number of rocky and sandy beaches nearby. Some beaches are more popular with locals while others attract a large amount of tourists. Alki Beach Park, Discovery Park, and Golden Gardens Park are among the best.

Plenty of visitors enjoy relaxing on the beach in Hilo. The town isn't really known for its beaches but there are some decent options if you want to stay nearby and hit the coastline. Beaches in the area include Coconut Island, Reeds Bay Beach Park, and Onekahakaha Beach Park.

Is Seattle or Hilo Better for Hiking?

Hilo is renowned for the nearby hiking options. Also, Seattle is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its hiking trails.

Known for its hiking, Hilo draws a crowd to experience the nature and the trails. You'll find incredible hikes in the area to many impressive waterfalls. There are also coastal trails and hikes to spectacular viewpoints.

Many visitors explore the nearby hiking trails while visiting Seattle. It's famously an outdoorsy city and the hiking will not disappoint. Within a half hour drive of town you'll find beautiful forests and stunning natural beauty. Head into the Cascades, to the coastal rainforests, or around Mount Rainier for all kinds of diverse landscapes. Seattle is well situated for you to experience hiking through the diverse Pacific Northwest landscapes.

Is the Shopping Better in Seattle or Hilo?

Seattle is a popular place for its shopping areas. However, Hilo is not known for shopping.

Seattle has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. Shopping in town has an eclectic mix of high end brands, local vendors, and vintage shops. There are farmers markets as well as the famous Pike Place Market, but also major malls with all of the standard department stores.

Hilo is a good destination for shopping. You can pick up anything you need in town, just head to Hilo Shopping Center.

Is Seattle or Hilo More Beautiful?

Hilo is notable for its scenery and beauty. Also, Seattle is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its scenery and beauty.

With stunning beauty, Hilo attracts visitors from all around. This side of the island is filled with beautiful waterfalls, lush rainforests, and tropical gardens.

Seattle is a gorgeous place to visit. Set against the backdrop of Mt. Rainier, the city has both natural and architectural beauty. It's also beautifully situated on the water with lots of parks and vegetation throughout.

Is Seattle or Hilo Better for Families?

Hilo is notable for its family-friendly activities. Also, Seattle is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

Hilo is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. The town has an authentic and unpretentious vibe that is fun for families. There are low key beaches, farmer's markets, local museums, and nearby hiking. If you want to stay away from the larger resorts and see a more local side to Hawaii, then this is a great option.

Seattle is a family-friendly city. This is an outdoor city with plenty of places where kids can run around and experience nature. There are several good museums as well as outdoor activities, parks, and a zoo. Make sure you check out the Burke Museum of Natural History and Culture, Volunteer Park, and Artists at Play Playground.

Is Seattle or Hilo Better for Couples?

Hilo is notable for couples. Also, Seattle is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for romance.

Hilo is a very popular place to visit for couples. Couples will enjoy visiting Liliuokalani Gardens, taking sunset cruises, and sampling the local cuisine. The town also makes a good base for hiking and exploring the beaches on the island.

Seattle is a nice destination for couples. The city has a laid back vibe, a nice downtown area, and plenty of outdoor activities. There are a diversity of restaurants to enjoy and a great nightlife scene that makes for a good couple's getaway.

Is Seattle or Hilo Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Hilo is notable for backpackers. Also, Seattle is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Hilo is a very popular town for backpackers and budget travelers. The town has several local hostels that many backpackers prefer for their authentic and mellow atmospheres.

Seattle is a good city to visit for backpackers. Although it's not the most popular city for backpackers in America, the city's chill vibe, fun breweries, and lively setting make it a great spot for young backpackers.

Is Seattle or Hilo Better for Students?

Seattle is a great city for its student-friendly activities. However, Hilo is not popular with students.

Seattle is a very popular city for students and younger travelers. It is a major IT center with a large university, so international students will have plenty of opportunities here. It's also a vibrant city with many outdoor recreational opportunities and a fun nightlife scene.

Hilo is not popular with students.

Is Seattle or Hilo Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Seattle is a popular place for times when you don't have a car. However, Hilo is not known for its public transit.

While Seattle offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There is a light rail system, a monorail, a street car, and buses.

Public transit is generally limited in Hilo. The Hele-On is a bus service that connects Hilo to Kona with north and south routes.

Is Seattle or Hilo a more walkable city?

Seattle is a great city for its ease of walking around. Also, Hilo is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its walkability.

Seattle is a very walkable destination. Many neighborhoods are very walkable, particularly in the downtown and major tourist areas.

Hilo is somewhat walkable. The downtown is a nice place to take a stroll, but if you want to get out of town, and you really should, then you'll need a car.

For even more information, also check out Is Seattle Worth Visiting? and Is Hilo Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Hilo or Seattle?

How long in Seattle or Hilo?

Both Seattle and Hilo have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Hilo than in Seattle. Usually, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Seattle, and 3-7 days is enough time in Hilo.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Seattle than Hilo 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 Seattle.

One day in Seattle or Hilo?

Seattle is a big city destination where you can fill many days. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

In Hilo, you'll find food and museums. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. One reason most visitors come is for the hiking. This town offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

A weekend in Seattle or Hilo?

Seattle is a fun place to experience. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. Hikers are also drawn to this area. A weekend is often enough time to do most activities. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

In Hilo, you'll find museums and food. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One reason most visitors come is for the hiking. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

Five days in Seattle or Hilo?

You'll find live music and food around the progressive big city of Seattle. This city offers something for everyone. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Hilo is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Hilo has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

A week in Seattle or Hilo?

The laid-back city of Seattle offers food and shopping. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. 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's hard to know how much time to spend in Hilo. In Hilo, you'll find museums and food. One reason most visitors come is for the hiking. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one week here.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Polar Tours & Cruises in United States of America, The Best Walking Tours in United States of America, The Best Northern Lights Tours in Alaska, and The Best Tours Under $1000 in United States of America.

When comparing the travel costs between Seattle and Hilo, we can see that Seattle 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 Seattle Expensive? and Is Hilo Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Seattle or Hilo?

Seattle has a larger population, and is about 10 times larger than the population of Hilo. When comparing the sizes of Seattle and Hilo, 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 Seattle or Hilo?

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 Seattle or Hilo in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Seattle as well as Hilo. Many visitors come to Seattle in the summer for the beaches, the hiking, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Hilo for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

Seattle is cooler than Hilo in the summer. The daily temperature in Seattle averages around 67°F (19°C) in July, and Hilo fluctuates around 76°F (24°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Seattle this time of the year. In the summer, Seattle often gets more sunshine than Hilo. Seattle gets 313 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Hilo receives 169 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Hilo. Seattle usually gets less rain in July than Hilo. Seattle gets 0.9 inches (22 mm) of rain, while Hilo receives 9.7 inches (247 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Seattle or Hilo in the Autumn?

Both Hilo and Seattle are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Seattle for the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Hilo because of the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Seattle is much colder than Hilo. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Seattle in October average around 54°F (12°C), and Hilo averages at about 76°F (24°C).

Seattle usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Hilo during autumn. Seattle gets 143 hours of sunny skies, while Hilo receives 138 hours of full sun in the autumn.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Hilo. In October, Seattle usually receives less rain than Hilo. Seattle gets 3.3 inches (83 mm) of rain, while Hilo receives 9.8 inches (248 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Seattle or Hilo in the Winter?

Both Hilo and Seattle during the winter are popular places to visit. The winter months attract visitors to Seattle because of the museums, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine. Furthermore, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Hilo this time of year.

In January, Seattle is generally much colder than Hilo. Daily temperatures in Seattle average around 42°F (5°C), and Hilo fluctuates around 72°F (22°C).

In the winter, Seattle often gets less sunshine than Hilo. Seattle gets 67 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Hilo receives 158 hours of full sun.

Hilo gets a good bit of rain this time of year. It rains a lot this time of the year in Seattle. Seattle usually gets less rain in January than Hilo. Seattle gets 5.4 inches (136 mm) of rain, while Hilo receives 8.7 inches (221 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Seattle or Hilo in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Seattle and Hilo. The beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty are the main draw to Seattle this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Hilo for the beaches and the natural beauty.

Seattle is much colder than Hilo in the spring. The daily temperature in Seattle averages around 51°F (11°C) in April, and Hilo fluctuates around 73°F (23°C).

In Seattle, it's very sunny this time of the year. Seattle usually receives more sunshine than Hilo during spring. Seattle gets 212 hours of sunny skies, while Hilo receives 134 hours of full sun in the spring.

Hilo receives a lot of rain in the spring. In April, Seattle usually receives less rain than Hilo. Seattle gets 2.5 inches (64 mm) of rain, while Hilo receives 15.6 inches (395 mm) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Hilo and Seattle