A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Washington vs. Durango for Attractions, Food, Hiking, and Families

Should you visit Washington or Durango?

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

Which city is more affordable and which is best for your travel style? If you're trying to figure out where to go next, comparing the travel costs between Washington and Durango can help you decide which place is right for you.

Washington

Washington is a diverse, active, and monument-filled city. It's a large city with plenty of activites for visitors as well. Washington is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. This is a quaint and attractive place to visit, too. Other reasons to visit include shopping, museums, and theater. See Washington travel costs.

Durango

Durango is a charming, quaint, and scenic small town. Since it offers so much small town charm with a variety of activities, it attracts plenty of visitors, too. Durango is a gorgeous place to visit. Since it has a quaint atmosphere, you'll want to spend time soaking it all in. Other reasons to visit include hiking and museums. See Durango travel costs.

Washington and Durango: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Washington or Durango?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Washington. Although Washington and Durango are both popular with visitors, Washington has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Washington is more popular for its museums and attractions, theatre productions, food, nightlife, music, shopping, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Durango is known for its skiing, historical sights, hiking, small town charm, and quaint atmosphere. Washington is more touristy than Durango and is known for its reputation as the capital of the United States, but it's also known for its many monuments, memorials, and museums. It is also home to The Washington Monument and the White House. Durango is popular for its historic narrow gauge railroad, its charming small town atmosphere, and its many family-friendly activities.

How is Washington different from Durango?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Washington or Durango Better for Skiing?

Durango is adequate for skiing. However, Washington is not a skiing destination.

Locals like to visit Durango to take advantage of their winter sports. Purgatory Ski Resort is about 20 minutes from town and it's a family-friendly mountain with beginner and intermediate runs. It's small, and geared specifically to the beginner and younger crowd.

Washington is not a skiing destination.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Washington or Durango?

Washington is a world-class destination for its museums and history. Also, Durango is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its museums and landmarks.

Travelers visit Washington from around the world to see its many world-famous attractions. The city has world class museums that are often free. The Smithsonian Museums are arguably some of the most impressive museums in the United States. The city also has a large collection of monuments that are dedicated to past presidents or historical events. Many are best experienced at night when the sun sets and the lights come on.

Durango offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. Most visitors come to town specifically to ride the Silverton & Durango Narrow Gauge Railroad. There's also the D&SNGRR Railroad Museum, and the Fish Hatchery and Wildlife Museum.

Is Washington or Durango Better for Theater?

Washington is a very popular place for theatre. However, Durango is not a theatre destination.

Washington offers many theater and performance venues for visitors. Theater is popular in the city. From major theaters like the Kennedy Center and Ford's Theater, to lesser known smaller venues, there are options for everyone.

Durango is not a theatre destination.

Is the Food Better in Washington or Durango? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Washington is a world-class destination for its restaurants. However, Durango is lacking in good options for its restaurant scene.

Eat your way through Washington, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. This city is among the most diverse in the country, so you can find restaurants from almost any cuisine here. It's worth exploring and stepping out of your comfort zone. There are popular neighborhoods for Ethiopian, Korean, Thai, Japanese, and Chinese food, among many others.

You'll find the standard options when it comes to food in Durango. Most of the restaurants are casual and family-friendly, serving up burgers or sandwiches for a reasonable price. You'll also find some coffeeshops and even a few food trucks and international restaurants.

Is Washington or Durango Better for Nightlife?

Washington is a very popular place for nightlife. However, Durango is lacking in good options for nightlife and partying.

Washington has a large number of nightlife venues. Many visitors head straight to the museums and the National Mall, and don't realize what a livable and fun city this is. Some of the best nightlife is found in Dupont Circle, U Street, and even Arlington, VA. The city's young population ensures that there's never a dull moment.

Things get quiet in the evenings in Durango. It's a small town that attracts tourists mainly for its train, so you won't find much in the way of a nightlife scene.

Is Washington or Durango Better for Music?

Washington is a good destination for live music. However, Durango is not a live music destination.

You don't have to look far to find a unique music venue in Washington. Notable live music venues include the 9:30 Club, the Anthem, and Union Stage.

Durango is not a live music destination.

Is Washington or Durango Better for its Old Town?

Durango is very good for its historic old town. However, Washington does not have a historic old town.

Durango is a good destination for visiting its old town. Filled with character, the downtown feels like you've stepped into a Western. The town has a long history as a mining and railroad community, which you can see throughout the historic area. It really feels like you're in the "Wild West."

Washington does not have a historic old town.

Is Washington or Durango Better for Hiking?

Durango is great for hiking. However, Washington is not a good destination for the nearby hiking options.

Many visitors go to Durango for the hiking trails. It's surrounded by plenty of natural beautiful and there is an endless supply of hikes in the region. Popular nearby hikes include Animas Mountain Trail, Falls Creek Trail, and Purgatory Trail.

Many visitors include a hike while visiting Washington. Just outside of Washington DC you'll find plenty of places to go hiking. There's also an elaborate bike and walking trail system in the city. To enjoy a bit of nature, head to Teddy Roosevelt Island.

Is the Shopping Better in Washington or Durango?

Washington is a very popular place for shopping. However, Durango is lacking in good options for its shopping opportunities.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Washington. Head to Georgetown and Dupont Circle for some of the city's best local shopping. There are name brand chains mixed in with local boutiques. You'll also find plenty of souvenir shops in the more touristy areas if you're looking to pick up some trinkets.

If you're looking to go shopping, Durango has some nice offerings. The charming town has some boutiques that sell beautifully made Native American jewelry and other interesting items. There are also souvenir shops and other venues that target tourists specifically.

Is Washington or Durango More Beautiful?

Washington is a very popular place for its scenery and beauty. Also, Durango is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its scenery and beauty.

Washington is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. The city is particularly beautiful when it lights up at night or when the Cherry Blossoms are in bloom.

Durango is a beautiful place to visit, too. The town is surrounded by plenty of natural beauty.

Is Washington or Durango Better for Families?

You'll find high quality kid-friendly activities in either Washington or Durango.

Washington is a very family-friendly destination. It is a fun and educational destination where kids can explore world class museums and try unique foods from all around the world. The city has nationally recognized landmarks, monuments, and memorials and it's also home to some of the best (free) museums in the United States including the world class Smithsonian Institutions. Many schools visit Washington DC as a field trip, particularly during the Spring months, so you'll kids groups in colorful t-shirts running around the National Mall.

Durango is a very kid-friendly city. In the area you'll find ziplining, alpine slides, and plenty of outdoor areas to explore - and of course there's the railroad.

Is Washington or Durango Better for Couples?

Washington is a very popular place for romance. However, Durango is lacking in good options for its romantic activities.

Washington makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. The city lights up at night, so couples will enjoy wandering by the monuments in the evening or taking in a dinner and show. During the Spring months you'll find couples wandering through the Cherry Blossoms or along the waterfront.

Most people don't think of Durango as a couple's destination. The town may not be the first romantic destination that comes to mind, but the railroad combined with wandering the downtown can make for a great couple's getaway.

Is Washington or Durango Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Durango is very good for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Washington is not a good destination for backpackers.

Durango is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. With plenty of parks and outdoor areas nearby, backpackers will have plenty of places to explore.

Washington is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. While it is an international travel destination, the city often isn't at the top of most backpacker's lists. There are some affordable accommodation options available though if you know where to look.

Is Washington or Durango Better for Students?

Washington is a world-class destination for its student-friendly activities. However, Durango is not popular with students.

Washington is a very popular place to visit for students. International students come from around the world to study, learn, intern, and work in the capital of the United States. There are many internships available through the federal government as well as NGOs and nonprofits.

Durango is not popular with students.

Is Washington or Durango Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Washington is a world-class destination for times when you don't have a car. However, Durango is lacking in good options for its public transit.

With a huge network, the transit system in Washington can get you around easily. The metro system and the bus system are reliable and efficient ways to explore the city.

Public transit is limited or non-existant in Durango. It's a small town with no real public transit options so a car is a must.

Is Washington or Durango a more walkable city?

Washington is a world-class destination for its walkability. However, Durango is lacking in good options for its high level of walkability.

It's very easy to get around on foot in Washington. Many neighborhoods around the city are easy to explore on foot. Most tourists spend a lot of time in the Mall area, which is very pedestrian friendly.

Durango is generally not very walkable. While the Main Street through town is walkable, it's not as pedestrian-friendly as some small towns.

For even more information, also check out Is Washington Worth Visiting? and Is Durango Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Durango or Washington?

How long in Washington or Durango?

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

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Washington than Durango 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 Washington.

One day in Washington or Durango?

Because Washington is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. This city offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

Durango might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Washington or Durango?

Because Washington is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

Even though Durango is a small town, it has plenty of activities to choose from. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. It offers something for everyone. Many people spend a weekend here. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this small town.

Five days in Washington or Durango?

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

Durango, a popular small town, is full of activities for travelers. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

A week in Washington or Durango?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Washington. Because Washington is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one week here.

Durango 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.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Bicycle Tours in United States of America, Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in United States of America, The Best Coach Bus Tours in United States of America, and The Best Adventure Tours to United States of America.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Washington or Durango?

Washington has a larger population, and is about 40 times larger than the population of Durango. When comparing the sizes of Washington and Durango, 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.