A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Washington vs. Edmonton for Attractions, Food, Nightlife, and Families

Should you visit Washington or Edmonton?

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 Edmonton can help you decide which place is right for you.

Washington

Washington is a international, diverse, and active 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. It's also known for nightlife, live music, and food. See Washington travel costs.

Edmonton

Edmonton is a cultural, authentic, and friendly city. Other reasons to visit include nightlife, shopping, and museums. See Edmonton travel costs.

Washington and Edmonton: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Washington or Edmonton?

Travelers will generally find more things to do in Washington than Edmonton. While Edmonton is larger than Washington, Washington has more sights and attractions for tourists. Washington is more touristy than Edmonton and is popular 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. Edmonton is popular for its many festivals and lively personality.

How is Washington different from Edmonton?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Washington is an unbeatable place for its sights and museums. Also, Edmonton is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its museums and history.

Visitors will find world class museums and historical sights in Washington that are not to be missed. 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.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Edmonton can be an interesting and educational experience. You'll find a number of good museums around town such as the Royal Alberta Museum, Muttart Conservatory, the Alberta Aviation Museum, and the Art Gallery of Alberta.

Is Washington or Edmonton Better for Theater?

Washington is a well-known place for theatre. However, Edmonton is not a theatre destination.

Washington has a number of performance venues where you can see a variety of shows. 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.

Edmonton is not a theatre destination.

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

Washington is an unbeatable place for its local cuisine and restaurants. However, Edmonton is not a good city for its restaurants.

Washington has long been recognized as a culinary destination with great restaurants. 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 Edmonton. You'll find a mix of casual cafes, international eateries, and more upscale dining options.

Is Washington or Edmonton Better for Nightlife?

Washington is a well-known place for nightlife. Also, Edmonton is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for nightlife and partying.

Washington offers plenty to do in the evening. 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.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Edmonton. There's a mix of nightclubs, bars, and breweries around town. Head to Jasper Avenue for the high end clubs or check out a live show at one of the active theaters around town.

Is Washington or Edmonton Better for Music?

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

Music lovers will find a few good venues in Washington. Notable live music venues include the 9:30 Club, the Anthem, and Union Stage.

Edmonton is not a live music destination.

Is Washington or Edmonton Better for Hiking?

Washington is a moderate city for the nearby hiking options. However, Edmonton is not a hiking destination.

Washington has hiking trails if you want to get outside. 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.

Edmonton is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Washington or Edmonton?

If you're looking to go shopping, Washington and Edmonton both offer plenty of very good spots.

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.

Edmonton is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. The city is home to the West Edmonton Mall, which is the largest shopping mall in Canada, and among the largest in the world. The mall includes hundreds of shops, restaurants, a hotel, ice rink, movie theaters, an aquarium, and Galaxyland, which is one of the largest indoor amusement parks in the world. The mall is divided into themed sections that represent iconic places from around the world such as Europa Boulevard and Bourbon Street.

Is Washington or Edmonton More Beautiful?

Washington is a well-known place for its scenery and beauty. However, Edmonton is not a destination known for its 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.

Edmonton is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Washington or Edmonton Better for Families?

Washington is a well-known place for its family-friendly activities. Also, Edmonton is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

Washington is a very family-friendly place to visit. 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.

Edmonton is a family-friendly city. Many families live in town so if you're visiting for a few days you'll find plenty to do with kids. Most of the activities are concentrated in the downtown areas and along the south side of the North Saskatchewan River. The whole family will enjoy a visit to Telus World of Science. There's also the Edmonton Valley Zoo, the Alberta Aviation Museum, and Galaxyland, as well as many other activities.

Is Washington or Edmonton Better for Couples?

Washington is a well-known place for romance. Also, Edmonton is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its romantic activities.

Washington is a very popular place to visit for couples. 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.

Edmonton makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. There's a good theater scene, so you can enjoy dinner and a show. There are also quaint cafes, mellow breweries, and plenty of cultural activities like art museums.

Is Washington or Edmonton Better for Students?

Washington is an unbeatable place for students. However, Edmonton is not popular with students.

Students come from all over the world to visit Washington. 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.

Edmonton is not popular with students.

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

Washington is an unbeatable place for its public transit. Also, Edmonton is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for times when you don't have a car.

Visitors in Washington can get around quickly with the extensive public transit system. The metro system and the bus system are reliable and efficient ways to explore the city.

Edmonton has some public transit options. The city has both bus and light rail systems.

Is Washington or Edmonton a more walkable city?

Washington is an unbeatable place for its walkability. Also, Edmonton is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its high level of walkability.

It is easy to get around Washington on foot. 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.

Edmonton is a somewhat walkable place. There are parts of the city that are very walkable.

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

Should I spend more time in Edmonton or Washington?

How long in Washington or Edmonton?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Washington or Edmonton to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Washington than Edmonton because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Washington, and 1-2 days is enough time in Edmonton.

Families should spend more time in Washington than Edmonton. 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 Edmonton. 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 Edmonton 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 Edmonton?

Washington is a big city with plenty to do. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

With museums and nightlife around the cultural city of Edmonton, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Edmonton, one day is sufficent for most.

A weekend in Washington or Edmonton?

Washington is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

With nightlife and shopping around the destination of Edmonton, there's plenty to do. It offers something for everyone. Many people spend a weekend here. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this city.

Five days in Washington or Edmonton?

Washington is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Washington, five days is sufficent for most. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Edmonton, a popular city, is full of activities for travelers. 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 Edmonton?

Washington is a great place to explore. It is common to spend one week here. One week is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Washington has to offer. This city offers something for everyone.

Edmonton 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 Contiki Tours to Canada, and The Best G Adventures Tours to Canada.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Washington and Edmonton, we can see that Washington is more expensive. And not only is Edmonton much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Edmonton would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Edmonton 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 Edmonton.

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

Which is Bigger, Washington or Edmonton?

Edmonton has a larger population, and is about 29% larger than the population of Washington. When comparing the sizes of Washington and Edmonton, 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.