A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Tampa vs. Newport for Couples, Food, Beaches, and Families

Should you visit Tampa or Newport?

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

Should I visit Tampa or Newport? 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.

Tampa

Tampa is a easy-going, low-key, and laid-back city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. It's also popular because of the food and beaches. See Tampa travel costs.

Newport

Newport is a seaside, historical, and charming town. This is a charming small with plenty of activities, too. Newport offers plenty of beauty for visitors. It's also popular because of the beaches, shopping, and museums. See Newport travel costs.

Tampa and Newport: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Tampa or Newport?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Newport. Although Tampa and Newport are popular destinations, Newport has more sights and attractions for tourists. Newport is very popular for its museums and attractions, food, nightlife, historical sights, shopping, small town charm, and impressive beauty, while Tampa attracts visitors for its scuba diving & snorkeling and big city activities. Newport is more touristy than Tampa and is known for its sailing regattas, its mansions along Bellevue Avenue, and its maritime history. It is also well known for Thames Street. Tampa is famous for its amusement parks, wildlife parks, and popularity as a cruise ship port.

How is Tampa different from Newport?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Tampa or Newport?

Newport is an excellent place to visit for its museums and history. However, Tampa does not have museums and landmarks.

Newport offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. The historic mansions and local museums educate visitors on the town's maritime past and colonial roots. Some of the more popular places to visit include The Breakers, The Elms Mansion, The Marble House, and Chateau-sur-mer Mansion.

Tampa does not have museums and landmarks.

Is the Food Better in Tampa or Newport? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Newport is an excellent place to visit for its restaurants. Also, Tampa is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

Newport has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. Find a waterfront restaurant and enjoy fresh seafood and a charming atmosphere. Many restaurants are influenced by the town's Portuguese and Irish roots. You'll find classic pubs as well as brunch cafes and traditional taverns.

Tampa offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. There are a surprising number of great local restaurants around town as well as a good food truck scene. Some favorite dishes include fresh caught seafood, Grouper sandwiches, and Cuban sandwiches.

Is Tampa or Newport Better for Nightlife?

Newport is a popular place for its evening party scene. However, Tampa is lacking in options for nightlife.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Newport. There's a lively atmosphere in the evening with many pubs, taverns, and bars that keep the energy high.

Tampa is generally a quiet destination but there are options around. The city has some good nightclubs, sports bars, and other spots where locals enjoy spending the evening.

Is Tampa or Newport Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Tampa is a decent place to visit for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Newport is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

It's possible to go snorkeling in Tampa. While the water isn't always the clearest, there are some nice snorkeling and diving spots in the area. Options include Shell Key and Egmont Key, Crystal River, and Fort De Soto.

Newport is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Tampa or Newport Better for Beaches?

For a relaxing beach holiday, both Tampa and Newport are great choices.

Tampa is considered a top beach destination. Popular beaches near Tampa include Ben T. Davis Beach, Fred Howard Park, and Indian Rocks Beach.

Newport is a very popular place to visit for its beaches. Tucked in along the rocky coastline are many beautiful sandy beaches. You'll find popular and active beaches where you can lounge in a chair and people watch, as well as more secluded spots where you can enjoy a more peaceful setting. The largest beach is Easton's Beach (also known as First Beach). Surfers and boaters enjoy Sachuest Beach (or Second Beach), and a less popular, but very rewarding beach is also King Park Beach.

Is Tampa or Newport Better for its Old Town?

Newport is an excellent place to visit for its historic old town charm. However, Tampa does not have a historic old town.

Many visitors explore the old town while visiting Newport. The Historic District is filled with colonial buildings and impressive mansions. There are cobblestone streets and a charming loop through the town's Old Quarter.

Tampa does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Tampa or Newport?

Newport is an excellent place to visit for its shopping areas. However, Tampa is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in Newport. Walk along the charming cobblestone streets and pop in the many local boutiques and shops.

Tampa is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Tampa or Newport More Beautiful?

Newport is a popular place for its scenery and beauty. However, Tampa is not a destination known for its beauty.

Newport offers plenty of beauty for visitors. The coastal setting and charming architecture give it a lot of character.

Tampa is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Tampa or Newport Better for Families?

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Tampa or Newport.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Tampa. The city has a number of kid-oriented attractions including Busch Gardens Amusement Park, several kid-friendly museums, and a number of animal centers, aquariums, and wildlife rescue facilities.

Newport is a very family-friendly place to visit. For an educational and interactive experience, head to Save The Bay Exploration Center & Aquarium. The Norman Bird Sanctuary also has a lot of land and places to explore. Kids will enjoy a visit to the beach or running around Breton Point State Park as well. On a rainy day, Ryans Family Amusements is the perfect way to pass some time.

Is Tampa or Newport Better for Couples?

Newport is an amazing town to visit for couples. However, Tampa is lacking in options for romance.

Newport makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. It's a coastal town with a lot of charm that makes for a perfect romantic escape. Enjoy dining and shopping along Thames Street or take a walk along the coast. There are many local restaurants and evening activities for couples as well.

Tampa is not the best destination for a couple to visit. The area does have great restaurants and some fun places to explore, but the downtown area has room for improvement and much of the city is suburban.

Is Tampa or Newport Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Newport is a popular place for times when you don't have a car. However, Tampa is lacking in options for its public transit.

Newport has some public transit options. There are buses operated by RIPTA. You can visit most of the attractions in the downtown area by catching a ride on one of the classic green and gold hybrid trolley buses.

Public transit is limited or non-existant in Tampa. There is the street car that runs from downtown Tampa to Ybor City and stops at 11 stations.

Is Tampa or Newport a more walkable city?

Newport is an excellent place to visit for its ease of walking around. However, Tampa is lacking in options for its walkability.

Newport is a very walkable destination. The town's downtown are compact and fun to explore on foot. There is a nice concentration of shops, restaurants, hotels and sights.

Tampa is generally not very walkable. While there are some neighborhoods that are considered walkable, you really need a car if you hope to explore Tampa in depth.

For even more information, also check out Is Tampa Worth Visiting? and Is Newport Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Newport or Tampa?

How long in Tampa or Newport?

In either Tampa or Newport, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Newport than Tampa because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Tampa, and 2-5 days is enough time in Newport.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Newport than Tampa 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 Newport.

One day in Tampa or Newport?

In Tampa, you'll find food. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. This city offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

In Newport, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this historical destination offers. It's also a great beach destination, too. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

A weekend in Tampa or Newport?

In Tampa, you'll find food. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Most people come for the beaches. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Tampa has to offer.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Newport. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. This would be the perfect place to spend a weekend, as it has just the right amount of activities. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Five days in Tampa or Newport?

Tampa is a great place to explore. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

Newport is a fun place to experience. In Newport, many people enjoy the nightlife and food that this destination offers. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. This would be the perfect place to spend five days, as it has just the right amount of activities.

A week in Tampa or Newport?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Tampa. Many people enjoy the food when visiting Tampa. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

You'll find food and shopping around the seaside destination of Newport. Most people come for the beaches. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Las Vegas, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Anchorage, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Los Angeles, and The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from New York City.

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

Which is Bigger, Tampa or Newport?

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

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 Tampa or Newport in the Summer?

Both Newport and Tampa are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The beaches, snorkeling, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Tampa this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Newport for the beaches, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences.

Tampa is a little warmer than Newport in the summer. The daily temperature in Tampa averages around 82°F (28°C) in July, and Newport fluctuates around 73°F (23°C).

It's quite sunny in Newport. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Tampa. Tampa usually receives less sunshine than Newport during summer. Tampa gets 265 hours of sunny skies, while Newport receives 293 hours of full sun in the summer.

It's quite rainy in Tampa. In July, Tampa usually receives more rain than Newport. Tampa gets 8.4 inches (214 mm) of rain, while Newport receives 2.8 inches (72 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Tampa or Newport in the Autumn?

Both Newport and Tampa during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Tampa for the city's sights and attractions. Furthermore, many visitors come to Newport in the autumn for the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Tampa is much warmer than Newport. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Tampa in October average around 75°F (24°C), and Newport averages at about 53°F (12°C).

In Newport, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Tampa. In the autumn, Tampa often gets more sunshine than Newport. Tampa gets 234 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Newport receives 211 hours of full sun.

Tampa usually gets less rain in October than Newport. Tampa gets 2.6 inches (65 mm) of rain, while Newport receives 3.3 inches (83 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Tampa or Newport in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Tampa and Newport. Many visitors come to Tampa in the winter for the cuisine. Furthermore, most visitors come to Newport for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Newport can be very cold during winter. In January, Tampa is generally much warmer than Newport. Daily temperatures in Tampa average around 60°F (15°C), and Newport fluctuates around 28°F (-2°C).

In Tampa, it's very sunny this time of the year. Tampa usually receives more sunshine than Newport during winter. Tampa gets 200 hours of sunny skies, while Newport receives 170 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Tampa usually receives less rain than Newport. Tampa gets 2.3 inches (59 mm) of rain, while Newport receives 3.5 inches (89 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Tampa or Newport in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Tampa as well as Newport. Most visitors come to Tampa for the beaches and the activities around the city during these months. Additionally, the spring months attract visitors to Newport because of the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty.

Tampa is much warmer than Newport in the spring. The daily temperature in Tampa averages around 71°F (22°C) in April, and Newport fluctuates around 48°F (9°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Newport. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Tampa this time of the year. In the spring, Tampa often gets more sunshine than Newport. Tampa gets 299 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Newport receives 225 hours of full sun.

Tampa usually gets less rain in April than Newport. Tampa gets 2.1 inches (53 mm) of rain, while Newport receives 3.7 inches (94 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Newport and Tampa