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

Should you visit Washington or Moncton?

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

Washington

Washington is a monument-filled, international, and diverse city. As it's a big city, visitors will find plenty to do, too. With stunning beauty, Washington attracts visitors from all around. As this is a very quaint destination, you'll find it has a special atmosphere. It's also popular because of the theater, nightlife, and live music. See Washington travel costs.

Moncton

Moncton is a quaint, compact, and cultural city. Other reasons to visit include food, shopping, and museums. See Moncton travel costs.

Washington and Moncton: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Washington or Moncton?

You'll generally find more things to do in Washington than Moncton. Washington is bigger than Moncton, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Washington is more touristy than Moncton 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. Also, Washington is famous for The Washington Monument and the White House. Moncton is well known for its unique sense of place and its cultural activities.

How is Washington different from Moncton?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Moncton 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 Moncton?

Washington is a world-class destination for its historical sights. Also, Moncton is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its sights and museums.

With plenty of landmarks, attractions, and museums, Washington has many famous sights for visitors. 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.

Moncton is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. The city has a zoo at Magnetic Hill as well as several great museums and historic sites like Fort Beauséjour and the Acadian Museum.

Is Washington or Moncton Better for Theater?

Washington is great for its shows and theatre. However, Moncton 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.

Moncton is not a theatre destination.

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

Washington is a world-class destination for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Moncton is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its local cuisine and restaurants.

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.

Moncton offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. You'll find a range of casual eateries around town as well as wine tasting and a few upscales places. Poutine is the local favorite, but you can also try fried seafood or a local stew.

Is Washington or Moncton Better for Nightlife?

Washington is great for its evening party scene. However, Moncton is not a good destination for nightlife.

Many people head to Washington for the nightlife scene. 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.

Most people don't head to Moncton specifically for the nightlife scene, but you can find a few options. Many of the local bars and clubs are geared toward a slightly younger crowd.

Is Washington or Moncton Better for Music?

Washington is a good destination for its music scene. However, Moncton 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.

Moncton is not a live music destination.

Is Washington or Moncton Better for Hiking?

Washington is adequate for hiking. However, Moncton is not a hiking destination.

Hiking is a fun activity while in 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.

Moncton is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Washington or Moncton?

Washington is great for its shopping areas. Also, Moncton is not as popular, but is still a nice city for shopping.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in 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.

Moncton is a great destination for shopping. There's a mix of independent shops and larger big box stores. Some of the largest shopping areas include Mapleton Plaza and Wheeler Park Power Centre.

Is Washington or Moncton More Beautiful?

Washington is great for its scenery and beauty. However, Moncton is not a destination known for its beauty.

With stunning beauty, Washington attracts visitors from all around. The city is particularly beautiful when it lights up at night or when the Cherry Blossoms are in bloom.

Moncton is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Washington or Moncton Better for Families?

Washington is great for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Moncton is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its family-friendly activities.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Washington. 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.

Moncton is a family-friendly place to visit. It's a family-friendly town with indoor play spaces and outdoor parks. Highlights for families include a visit to Magnetic Hill Zoo and a stop at Butterfly World and the Boardwalk.

Is Washington or Moncton Better for Couples?

Washington is great for couples. Also, Moncton is not as popular, but is still a nice city for romance.

Washington is a great city if you're traveling as 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.

Moncton is a nice destination for couples. There are some great date night ideas like wine tasting at Magnetic Hill Winery or seeing a show at the theater.

Is Washington or Moncton Better for Students?

Washington is a world-class destination for its student-friendly activities. However, Moncton 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.

Moncton is not popular with students.

Is Washington or Moncton 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, Moncton is not a good destination 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 generally limited in Moncton. There is a bus system but it's better not to rely on it.

Is Washington or Moncton a more walkable city?

Washington is a world-class destination for its ease of walking around. Also, Moncton is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its walkability.

Washington is a very easy city to get around 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.

Moncton is somewhat walkable. It's relatively compact and dense enough to get around on foot in many parts.

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

Should I spend more time in Moncton or Washington?

How long in Washington or Moncton?

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

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

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.

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

A weekend in Washington or Moncton?

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.

With food and shopping around the destination of Moncton, 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 Moncton?

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.

Moncton, 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 Moncton?

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.

Moncton 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 Camping Tours in Canada, and The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Canada.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Washington or Moncton?

Washington has a larger population, and is about 6 times larger than the population of Moncton. When comparing the sizes of Washington and Moncton, 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 Moncton?

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 Moncton in the Summer?

Both Moncton and Washington are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Washington in the summer for the hiking, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Moncton for the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In July, Washington is generally a little warmer than Moncton. Daily temperatures in Washington average around 79°F (26°C), and Moncton fluctuates around 19°C (66°F).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Moncton. In July, Washington usually receives less rain than Moncton. Washington gets 3.5 inches (88 mm) of rain, while Moncton receives 103 mm (4 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Washington or Moncton in the Autumn?

Both Moncton and Washington during the autumn are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Washington for the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Moncton because of the shopping scene.

Washington is much warmer than Moncton in the autumn. The daily temperature in Washington averages around 60°F (15°C) in October, and Moncton fluctuates around 8°C (46°F).

Moncton gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Washington usually gets less rain in October than Moncton. Washington gets 2.9 inches (73 mm) of rain, while Moncton receives 106 mm (4.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Washington or Moncton in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Washington and Moncton. The winter months attract visitors to Washington because of the museums, the Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine. Also, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Moncton this time of year.

It's quite cold in Moncton in the winter. The weather in Washington can be very cold. In the winter, Washington is much warmer than Moncton. Typically, the winter temperatures in Washington in January average around 35°F (1°C), and Moncton averages at about -8°C (17°F).

Moncton receives a lot of rain in the winter. In January, Washington usually receives less rain than Moncton. Washington gets 2.7 inches (68 mm) of rain, while Moncton receives 120 mm (4.7 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Washington or Moncton in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Washington as well as Moncton. The activities around the city and the natural beauty are the main draw to Washington this time of year.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Moncton. In April, Washington is generally much warmer than Moncton. Daily temperatures in Washington average around 56°F (14°C), and Moncton fluctuates around 3°C (38°F).

It's quite rainy in Moncton. Washington usually gets less rain in April than Moncton. Washington gets 2.8 inches (72 mm) of rain, while Moncton receives 101 mm (4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Moncton and Washington