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

Should you visit Washington or Kamloops?

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

Washington

Washington is a diverse, active, and monument-filled city. Travelers will also find plenty of sights and attractions here, as it's a big city that attracts lots of visitors. The beauty of Washington is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. This destination also has one of those special and quaint feelings. Visitors also love the live music, food, and shopping. See Washington travel costs.

Kamloops

Kamloops is a outdoorsy, nature-filled, and laid-back city. Other reasons to visit include hiking, shopping, and skiing. See Kamloops travel costs.

Washington and Kamloops: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Washington or Kamloops?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Washington than Kamloops. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Washington is very popular for its museums and attractions, theatre productions, food, nightlife, music, shopping, big city activities, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere, while Kamloops attracts visitors for its skiing and hiking. Washington is more touristy than Kamloops 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 well known for The Washington Monument and the White House. Kamloops is famous for its hiking trails, bike paths, and golf courses.

How is Washington different from Kamloops?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Washington or Kamloops Better for Skiing?

Kamloops is great for skiing. However, Washington is not a skiing destination.

Kamloops offers world-class skiing that is fun for everyone. There's a long ski season that runs from mid-November to mid-April. The region has two major ski resorts - Sun Peaks Resorts and Harper Mountain.

Washington is not a skiing destination.

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

Washington is an amazing city to visit for its museums and history. However, Kamloops is lacking in options for its museums and landmarks.

The museums and tourist attractions in Washington are world-renowned. 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.

Kamloops offers a handful of options for museums and historical sights. There are a couple of museums in the area that highlight the local culture and the region's heritage.

Is Washington or Kamloops Better for Theater?

Washington is an excellent place to visit for its theatre productions. However, Kamloops is not a theatre destination.

Washington attracts a wide-range of world-class performances. 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.

Kamloops is not a theatre destination.

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

Washington is an amazing city to visit for its restaurants. Also, Kamloops is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

Many restaurants in Washington have been singled out for their culinary prowess. 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.

There are many up and coming restaurants in the Kamloops area. You'll find restaurants that range from casual to fine dining. There are also international options like Jamaican, Indian, or Chinese.

Is Washington or Kamloops Better for Nightlife?

Washington is an excellent place to visit for nightlife and partying. Also, Kamloops is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its evening party scene.

Washington has a lively atmosphere and nightlife is popular here. 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.

Kamloops has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. You'll find pubs, bars, breweries and night clubs around town that range in personality and style.

Is Washington or Kamloops Better for Music?

Washington is a city with good options for its live music scene. However, Kamloops is not a live music destination.

You'll find some good live music in Washington. Notable live music venues include the 9:30 Club, the Anthem, and Union Stage.

Kamloops is not a live music destination.

Is Washington or Kamloops Better for Hiking?

Kamloops is very good for hiking. However, Washington is not a good destination for the nearby hiking options.

Many people include a hike when visiting Kamloops. The area is filled with hiking trails that pass through grasslands, desert landscapes, and pine forests. There is something for every skill level.

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 Kamloops?

Washington is an excellent place to visit for its shopping opportunities. Also, Kamloops is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its shopping areas.

Washington is well-known for its shopping. 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.

Many visitors go to Kamloops to go shopping. Downtown you'll find local boutiques and eclectic shops. You could also head to Aberdeen Mall for all of the major brands and recognizable stores.

Is Washington or Kamloops More Beautiful?

Washington is an excellent place to visit for its scenery and beauty. However, Kamloops is not a destination known for its beauty.

The beauty of Washington is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. The city is particularly beautiful when it lights up at night or when the Cherry Blossoms are in bloom.

Kamloops is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Washington or Kamloops Better for Families?

You'll find superb kid-friendly activities in either Washington or Kamloops.

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.

Kamloops is a very kid-friendly city. There are great parks and outdoor spaces for kids as well as the Deep Creek Tool Museum, Westsyde Centennial Park and Petting Zoo, and Hells Gate Air Tram. You can also take a ride on the Kettle Valley Railway Steam Engine. Animal lovers will enjoy a visit to either Kamloops Wildlife Park or Kangaroo Creek Farm.

Is Washington or Kamloops Better for Couples?

Washington is an excellent place to visit for its romantic activities. Also, Kamloops is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for couples.

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.

Kamloops is a good city for couples to visit. The area is filled with great hikes and nice parks. There are also great restaurants that make for a good date night.

Is Washington or Kamloops Better for Students?

Washington is an amazing city to visit for its student-friendly activities. However, Kamloops is not popular with students.

Washington is a very popular city 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.

Kamloops is not popular with students.

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

Washington is an amazing city to visit for times when you don't have a car. However, Kamloops is lacking in options for its public transit.

Public transit in Washington is top-notch. The metro system and the bus system are reliable and efficient ways to explore the city.

Public transit is generally limited in Kamloops. There is a bus system through the city.

Is Washington or Kamloops a more walkable city?

Washington is an amazing city to visit for its high level of walkability. However, Kamloops is lacking in options for its ease of walking around.

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.

Kamloops is generally not very walkable. The downtown is the most walkable part of town.

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

Should I spend more time in Kamloops or Washington?

How long in Washington or Kamloops?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Washington or Kamloops to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Washington than Kamloops 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 Kamloops.

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

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 shopping and skiing around the laid-back city of Kamloops, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Kamloops, one day is sufficent for most.

A weekend in Washington or Kamloops?

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 skiing and nightlife around the destination of Kamloops, 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 Kamloops?

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.

Kamloops, 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 Kamloops?

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.

Kamloops 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 Train & Rail Tours in Canada, and The Best Sightseeing Tours in Canada.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Washington or Kamloops?

Washington has a larger population, and is about 8 times larger than the population of Kamloops. When comparing the sizes of Washington and Kamloops, 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 Washington or Kamloops?

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 Washington or Kamloops in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Washington and Kamloops. Many travelers come to Washington for the hiking, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Kamloops in the summer for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Washington is a little warmer than Kamloops. Typically, the summer temperatures in Washington in July average around 79°F (26°C), and Kamloops averages at about 23°C (73°F).

In July, Washington usually receives more rain than Kamloops. Washington gets 3.5 inches (88 mm) of rain, while Kamloops receives 28 mm (1.1 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Washington or Kamloops in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Washington as well as Kamloops. Many visitors come to Washington in the autumn for the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, most visitors come to Kamloops for the hiking trails and the shopping scene during these months.

In October, Washington is generally a little warmer than Kamloops. Daily temperatures in Washington average around 60°F (15°C), and Kamloops fluctuates around 11°C (51°F).

Washington usually gets more rain in October than Kamloops. Washington gets 2.9 inches (73 mm) of rain, while Kamloops receives 14 mm (0.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Washington or Kamloops in the Winter?

Both Kamloops and Washington are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Washington for the museums, the Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Kamloops because of the skiing, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

The weather in Kamloops can be very cold. Washington can be very cold during winter. Washington is much warmer than Kamloops in the winter. The daily temperature in Washington averages around 35°F (1°C) in January, and Kamloops fluctuates around -3°C (27°F).

In January, Washington usually receives more rain than Kamloops. Washington gets 2.7 inches (68 mm) of rain, while Kamloops receives 26 mm (1 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Washington or Kamloops in the Spring?

Both Kamloops and Washington during the spring are popular places to visit. The spring months attract visitors to Washington because of the activities around the city and the natural beauty.

In the spring, Washington is a little warmer than Kamloops. Typically, the spring temperatures in Washington in April average around 56°F (14°C), and Kamloops averages at about 12°C (53°F).

Washington usually gets more rain in April than Kamloops. Washington gets 2.8 inches (72 mm) of rain, while Kamloops receives 15 mm (0.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Kamloops and Washington