A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Virginia Beach vs. Niagara Falls for Families, Couples, Food, and Nightlife

Should you visit Virginia Beach or Niagara Falls?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Virginia Beach or Niagara Falls, 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.

Virginia Beach

Virginia Beach is a bustling, fun-filled, and relaxing coastal city. Virginia Beach is a beautiful place to visit, too. And you can't forget about the nightlife and beaches. See Virginia Beach travel costs.

Niagara Falls

Niagara Falls is a breathtaking, impressive, and iconic city. The beauty of Niagara Falls is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Visitors also love the shopping, nightlife, and food. See Niagara Falls travel costs.

Virginia Beach and Niagara Falls: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Virginia Beach or Niagara Falls?

Travelers will generally find more things to do in Niagara Falls than Virginia Beach. While Virginia Beach is larger than Niagara Falls, Niagara Falls has more sights and attractions for tourists. Niagara Falls is better known for its museums and attractions, food, hiking, shopping, and impressive beauty, while Virginia Beach is more popular for its resorts and beaches. Niagara Falls is more touristy than Virginia Beach and is popular for the large volume of water that flows over it. Also, Niagara Falls is famous for the Journey Behind the Falls. Virginia Beach is well known for its fun boardwalk, many seafood restaurants, and classic beach town vibe.

How is Virginia Beach different from Niagara Falls?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Virginia Beach or Niagara Falls?

Niagara Falls is adequate for its historical sights. However, Virginia Beach does not have museums and landmarks.

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.

Virginia Beach does not have museums and landmarks.

Is the Food Better in Virginia Beach or Niagara Falls? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Niagara Falls is a nice place to visit for its local flavors and cuisine. However, Virginia Beach is not a good destination for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Niagara Falls has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. 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.

Virginia Beach may not make the list for most foodies, but you'll find what you need while you're in town. Seafood is plentiful around town and there are all-you-can-eat buffets as well as high end, waterfront seafood restaurants. Make sure you try the She Crab Soup, soft shell crabs, and oysters.

Is Virginia Beach or Niagara Falls Better for Nightlife?

The vibe at night is notable in both Virginia Beach and Niagara Falls.

If you're looking for night time activities Virginia Beach has a few options to choose from. While it's a family-friendly beach, there's still a great nightlife scene with many bars and clubs in the area. Popular places to hang out at night include Omega Bar, Peabody's Nightclub, and Sky Bar.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Niagara Falls. There's a decent concentration of clubs, pubs, and bars around town that keep things fun late into the evening.

Is Virginia Beach or Niagara Falls Better for Resorts?

Virginia Beach is a popular place for its resorts. However, Niagara Falls is not a resort destination.

With a selection of resorts, Virginia Beach makes a nice vacation spot. Some of the best resorts in the area include the Historic Cavalier Hotel and Beach Club, the Hilton Virginia Beach Oceanfront, and The Founders Inn and Spa.

Niagara Falls is not a resort destination.

Is Virginia Beach or Niagara Falls Better for Beaches?

Virginia Beach is a popular place for the beach. However, Niagara Falls is not a beach destination.

Virginia Beach is a good option for a beach vacation. The beaches are long and sandy, but they can get crowded during the summer months. The waves are just the right size for playing in the surf and the water temperature is usually warm enough to swim well into the fall months.

Niagara Falls is not a beach destination.

Is Virginia Beach or Niagara Falls Better for Hiking?

Niagara Falls is great for hiking. However, Virginia Beach is not a hiking destination.

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

Virginia Beach is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Virginia Beach or Niagara Falls?

Niagara Falls is a nice place to visit for its shopping opportunities. However, Virginia Beach is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Niagara Falls. You'll find touristy souvenir shops as well as outlets and malls nearby.

Virginia Beach is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Virginia Beach or Niagara Falls More Beautiful?

Niagara Falls is great for its scenery and beauty. Also, Virginia Beach is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal city for its scenery and beauty.

The beauty of Niagara Falls is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. 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.

Virginia Beach offers plenty of beauty for visitors. As a developed beach town, the city has its share of hotels along the beach, but it is still a beautiful setting to explore.

Is Virginia Beach or Niagara Falls Better for Families?

Niagara Falls is terrific for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Virginia Beach is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal city for its family-friendly activities.

Niagara Falls is an amazing family-friendly city to visit. 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.

Virginia Beach is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. This is a popular family-friendly beach with a nice boardwalk, a fun waterpark, aquarium, and nice beaches. It attracts families in the area for its long beaches and fun atmosphere. Most restaurants have kid's menus and there are ice cream shops and minigolf around.

Is Virginia Beach or Niagara Falls Better for Couples?

Niagara Falls is great for its romantic activities. Also, Virginia Beach is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal city for couples.

Niagara Falls is a great city if you're traveling as 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.

Virginia Beach is a good coastal city for couples to visit. Couples will enjoy a nice escape to the beaches and boardwalk. There are many great seafood restaurants, some with waterfront settings. There's also a variety of activities ranging from many golf to dance clubs.

Is Virginia Beach or Niagara Falls Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Niagara Falls is a nice place to visit for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Virginia Beach is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

It's common for backpackers to visit Niagara Falls. There's a hostel or two where you can stay for cheap and meet other travelers.

Virginia Beach is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

Is Virginia Beach or Niagara Falls Better for Students?

Virginia Beach is a popular place for students. However, Niagara Falls is not popular with students.

Virginia Beach is a good coastal city to visit for students. It's not as popular as more southern beach towns, but you'll still find students heading here for the spring break holidays.

Niagara Falls is not popular with students.

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

Niagara Falls is a nice place to visit for times when you don't have a car. However, Virginia Beach is not a good destination for its public transit.

While Niagara Falls offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There is a bus system through town.

Public transit is limited or non-existant in Virginia Beach. There is very limited public transit in the area so you'll need to have a car to get around.

Is Virginia Beach or Niagara Falls a more walkable city?

Niagara Falls is a nice place to visit for its high level of walkability. However, Virginia Beach is not a good destination for its ease of walking around.

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

Virginia Beach is generally not very walkable. Most people prefer to have a car but do note that parking can be a nightmare, particularly during the summer season.

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

Should I spend more time in Niagara Falls or Virginia Beach?

How long in Virginia Beach or Niagara Falls?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Virginia Beach and Niagara Falls. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Virginia Beach than in Niagara Falls. Usually, 5-7 days is a good amount of time for Virginia Beach, and 2-3 days is enough time in Niagara Falls.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Niagara Falls than Virginia Beach 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 Niagara Falls.

One day in Virginia Beach or Niagara Falls?

Many travelers enjoy the nightlife when visiting the fun-filled destination of Virginia Beach. 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.

In Niagara Falls, you'll find nightlife and food. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Virginia Beach or Niagara Falls?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Virginia Beach. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

Niagara Falls is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Because of this, a weekend is usually enough time for a trip here.

Five days in Virginia Beach or Niagara Falls?

Many travelers enjoy the nightlife when visiting the relaxing destination of Virginia Beach. This coastal city offers a variety of activities to choose from. If you have five days, this is a great place to go. Five days is usually enough time to experience most activities.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Niagara Falls. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. It offers something for everyone. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in Virginia Beach or Niagara Falls?

Many travelers enjoy the nightlife when visiting the coastal city of Virginia Beach. Plenty of people spend one week in the area when traveling.So, one week is just the right amount of time to spend here. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the city of Niagara Falls. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. Your budget might influence how long you stay. 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.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 10-Day Tours in United States of America, The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in United States of America, The Best Sightseeing Tours in Canada, and The Best Camping Tours in Canada.

When comparing the travel costs between Virginia Beach and Niagara Falls, we can see that Niagara Falls 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 Virginia Beach Expensive? and Is Niagara Falls Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Virginia Beach or Niagara Falls?

Virginia Beach has a larger population, and is about 5 times larger than the population of Niagara Falls. When comparing the sizes of Virginia Beach 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 Virginia Beach or Niagara Falls?

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 Virginia Beach or Niagara Falls in the Summer?

Both Niagara Falls and Virginia Beach during the summer are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Virginia Beach in the summer for the beaches and the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Niagara Falls for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

Virginia Beach is a little warmer than Niagara Falls in the summer. The daily temperature in Virginia Beach averages around 79°F (26°C) in July, and Niagara Falls fluctuates around 23°C (74°F).

In Niagara Falls, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Virginia Beach. In the summer, Virginia Beach often gets less sunshine than Niagara Falls. Virginia Beach gets 279 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Niagara Falls receives 306 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Virginia Beach. Virginia Beach usually gets more rain in July than Niagara Falls. Virginia Beach gets 5.7 inches (145 mm) of rain, while Niagara Falls receives 69 mm (2.7 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Virginia Beach or Niagara Falls in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Virginia Beach and Niagara Falls. Most visitors come to Virginia Beach for the natural beauty of the area during these months. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Niagara Falls because of the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Virginia Beach is a little warmer than Niagara Falls. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Virginia Beach in October average around 62°F (16°C), and Niagara Falls averages at about 12°C (54°F).

In Virginia Beach, it's very sunny this time of the year. Virginia Beach usually receives more sunshine than Niagara Falls during autumn. Virginia Beach gets 211 hours of sunny skies, while Niagara Falls receives 148 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Virginia Beach usually receives more rain than Niagara Falls. Virginia Beach gets 3.1 inches (78 mm) of rain, while Niagara Falls receives 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Virginia Beach or Niagara Falls in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Virginia Beach as well as Niagara Falls. The winter months attract visitors to Virginia Beach because of the cuisine. Also, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Niagara Falls this time of year.

It's quite cold in Niagara Falls in the winter. The weather in Virginia Beach can be very cold. In January, Virginia Beach is generally much warmer than Niagara Falls. Daily temperatures in Virginia Beach average around 39°F (4°C), and Niagara Falls fluctuates around -4°C (26°F).

In the winter, Virginia Beach often gets more sunshine than Niagara Falls. Virginia Beach gets 168 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Niagara Falls receives 89 hours of full sun.

Virginia Beach usually gets more rain in January than Niagara Falls. Virginia Beach gets 3.3 inches (85 mm) of rain, while Niagara Falls receives 52 mm (2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Virginia Beach or Niagara Falls in the Spring?

Both Niagara Falls and Virginia Beach are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The beaches and the natural beauty are the main draw to Virginia Beach this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Niagara Falls for the natural beauty.

Virginia Beach is a little warmer than Niagara Falls in the spring. The daily temperature in Virginia Beach averages around 58°F (14°C) in April, and Niagara Falls fluctuates around 10°C (49°F).

It's quite sunny in Niagara Falls. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Virginia Beach. Virginia Beach usually receives more sunshine than Niagara Falls during spring. Virginia Beach gets 253 hours of sunny skies, while Niagara Falls receives 203 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Virginia Beach usually receives more rain than Niagara Falls. Virginia Beach gets 2.7 inches (69 mm) of rain, while Niagara Falls receives 63 mm (2.5 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Niagara Falls and Virginia Beach