A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America West Palm Beach vs. Alexandria for Food, Nightlife, Families, and Couples

Should you visit West Palm Beach or Alexandria?

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

Should I visit West Palm Beach or Alexandria? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

West Palm Beach

West Palm Beach is a vibrant, fun-filled, and diverse beach area. It's also popular because of the beaches, nightlife, and scuba diving and snorkeling. See West Palm Beach travel costs.

Alexandria

Alexandria is a quaint, historic, and charming city. With fun activities and sights, this is a small town worth visiting. Alexandria is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Other reasons to visit include museums, nightlife, and food. See Alexandria travel costs.

West Palm Beach and Alexandria: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in West Palm Beach or Alexandria?

You'll generally find more things to do in Alexandria than West Palm Beach. Alexandria is bigger than West Palm Beach, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Alexandria is better known for its museums and attractions, food, historical sights, shopping, small town charm, and impressive beauty, while West Palm Beach is more popular for its nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, and beaches. West Palm Beach is well known for its nice resorts, a lively boardwalk, great seafood, and fun watersports. Alexandria is well known for its long-running history, beautiful architecture, and small town atmosphere. Also, Alexandria is famous for Mount Vernon.

How is West Palm Beach different from Alexandria?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in West Palm Beach or Alexandria?

Alexandria is a great city for its historical sights. However, West Palm Beach does not have museums and landmarks.

Alexandria offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. George Washington's Mount Vernon home is an iconic destination in Alexandria. There are also many other museums in town that focus on the region's history. The Alexandria History Museum at the Lyceum and the Gadsby's Tavern Museum are both interesting. There's Gunston Hall and the Carlyle House, as well as an archeology museum and many historic landmarks around town.

West Palm Beach does not have museums and landmarks.

Is the Food Better in West Palm Beach or Alexandria? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Alexandria is a great city for its local flavors and cuisine. However, West Palm Beach is not known for its local cuisine and restaurants.

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in Alexandria. The food, like the city itself, reflects the area's history. There are many southern classic dishes as well as a lot of seafood. You'll find lots of local restaurants that serve high quality dishes and a quaint atmosphere.

You'll find the standard options when it comes to food in West Palm Beach. Oceanfront restaurants usually have a great view and offer local and fresh seafood. There are also many local restaurants concentrated around Clematis Street and CityPlace districts.

Is West Palm Beach or Alexandria Better for Nightlife?

West Palm Beach is great for its evening party scene. Also, Alexandria is not as popular, but is still a nice city for nightlife.

Many people head to West Palm Beach for the nightlife scene. With rooftop bars and clubs, oceanfront venues, and plenty of nightlife options downtown, this city rivals most places when it comes to nightlife. The nightlife scene is particularly active during spring break, when university students head to town.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Alexandria. There's a great bar scene, as well as tons of restaurants that make for a relaxing night out.

Is West Palm Beach or Alexandria Better for Resorts?

West Palm Beach is an unbeatable place for its luxury resorts. However, Alexandria is not a resort destination.

Vacationers flock to West Palm Beach for its luxury resorts. All of the major names are present including the Hilton, Marriott, and Four Seasons.

Alexandria is not a resort destination.

Is West Palm Beach or Alexandria Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

West Palm Beach is great for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Alexandria is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

There are many scuba diving and snorkeling spots near West Palm Beach. Check out Phil Foster Park in Rivera Beach. It's a man-made reef that is surprisingly clear.

Alexandria is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is West Palm Beach or Alexandria Better for Beaches?

West Palm Beach is an unbeatable place for the beach. However, Alexandria is not a beach destination.

West Palm Beach offers stunning beaches that attract visitors from around the world. From bustling beaches with a boardwalk to quieter, more relaxing beaches surrounded by parkland, there are are number of options in the area.

Alexandria is not a beach destination.

Is West Palm Beach or Alexandria Better for its Old Town?

Alexandria is very popular for its historic old town. However, West Palm Beach does not have a historic old town.

Alexandria has a world-famous historical area. At the heart of the city is the historic old town. Its lined with townhomes that date back to the 18th century. There are many historic sights that have stories from the early days of the country. There are also cobblestone streets and a great waterfront.

West Palm Beach does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in West Palm Beach or Alexandria?

Alexandria is a great city for shopping. However, West Palm Beach is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Alexandria. King Street is the main shopping street in town and it offers the largest concentration of independently owned boutiques in the Washington D.C. area. It's the perfectly place to spend an afternoon shopping.

West Palm Beach is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is West Palm Beach or Alexandria More Beautiful?

Alexandria is a great city for its scenery and beauty. However, West Palm Beach is not a destination known for its beauty.

Alexandria is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. The historic architecture and beautiful waterfront make this an iconic destination.

West Palm Beach is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is West Palm Beach or Alexandria Better for Families?

West Palm Beach is great for its kid-friendly activities. However, Alexandria is not a good destination for its family-friendly activities.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in West Palm Beach. Animal lovers will appreciate the zoos and aquariums in the area. Check out McCarthy's Wildlife Sanctuary, Manatee Lagoon, the Palm Beach Zoo, and the South Florida Science Center and Aquarium.

Alexandria is not the most family-friendly destination. The waterfront area is nice to walk around. You can break up the history with an ice cream shop and kids will also enjoy taking a boat tour.

Is West Palm Beach or Alexandria Better for Couples?

With fun activities for couples, both West Palm Beach and Alexandria make for a superb place to visit.

West Palm Beach is a great beach area if you're traveling as a couple. Couples will enjoy kayaking, dining out, or simply relaxing on the beach. It's fun to spend a day exploring the botanical gardens and an evening wandering around Clematis Street.

Alexandria is a very popular place to visit for couples. The charm of the old town makes this a quaint and romantic destination. There's a waterfront area and many historic buildings. There are also romantic restaurants and plenty of places to grab brunch.

Is West Palm Beach or Alexandria Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Alexandria is a popular place for backpackers and budget travelers. However, West Palm Beach is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Alexandria. There aren't any true hostels in town, but you will find some cheap motels.

West Palm Beach is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

Is West Palm Beach or Alexandria Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Alexandria is very popular for times when you don't have a car. Also, West Palm Beach is not as popular, but is still a nice beach area for its public transit.

Alexandria has an effecient and thorough public transportation system which can take you anywhere in the city. DASH is the local bus system, but the city is also connected into the Washington DC metro system.

West Palm Beach has a few public transit options. There's a downtown trolley, a commuter trail line (connecting West Palm Beach, Miami, and Fort Lauderdale), and a bus system with about 30 lines.

Is West Palm Beach or Alexandria a more walkable city?

Alexandria is very popular for its walkability. Also, West Palm Beach is not as popular, but is still a nice beach area for its high level of walkability.

Alexandria is a very easy city to get around on foot. It's a very easy city to walk around, particularly in the historic heart where most tourists spend their time.

West Palm Beach is a somewhat walkable place. West Palm Beach has a surprisingly walkable area and it's possible to explore the downtown area on foot.

For even more information, also check out Is West Palm Beach Worth Visiting? and Is Alexandria Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Alexandria or West Palm Beach?

How long in West Palm Beach or Alexandria?

It's fun to spend time in either West Palm Beach or Alexandria. Generally, people tend to spend more time in West Palm Beach due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for West Palm Beach, and 2-4 days is enough time in Alexandria.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Alexandria than West Palm 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 Alexandria.

One day in West Palm Beach or Alexandria?

With scuba diving and snorkeling and nightlife around the fun-filled beach area of West Palm Beach, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. One of the main draws to the area is the beaches. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

The quaint destination of Alexandria offers nightlife and food. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

A weekend in West Palm Beach or Alexandria?

With nightlife and scuba diving and snorkeling around the destination of West Palm Beach, there's plenty to do. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. It offers something for everyone. One of the main draws to the area is the beaches. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything.

The city of Alexandria offers food and shopping. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. A weekend here is typical. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything. A weekend is often enough time to do most activities.

Five days in West Palm Beach or Alexandria?

West Palm Beach, a popular beach area, is full of activities for travelers. This is a popular place to visit for five days. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. In five days, you should have a good grasp of this beach area. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Alexandria is a great place to explore. Visiting the old town is also a must. This city offers something for everyone. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

A week in West Palm Beach or Alexandria?

West Palm Beach is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have one week, this beach area makes for a great vacation. One of the main draws to the area is the beaches. One week should give you a good understanding of everything this beach area has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Alexandria. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 3-Week Tours in United States of America, The Best Bicycle Tours in United States of America, Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in United States of America, and The Best Coach Bus Tours in United States of America.

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

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

Which is Bigger, West Palm Beach or Alexandria?

Alexandria has a larger population, and is about 55% larger than the population of West Palm Beach. When comparing the sizes of West Palm Beach and Alexandria, 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 West Palm Beach or Alexandria?

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 West Palm Beach or Alexandria in the Summer?

Both Alexandria and West Palm Beach are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to West Palm Beach for the beaches, snorkeling, and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Alexandria because of the small town charm and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, West Palm Beach is generally around the same temperature as Alexandria. Daily temperatures in West Palm Beach average around 82°F (28°C), and Alexandria fluctuates around 79°F (26°C).

It's quite sunny in Alexandria. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in West Palm Beach. West Palm Beach usually receives more sunshine than Alexandria during summer. West Palm Beach gets 316 hours of sunny skies, while Alexandria receives 278 hours of full sun in the summer.

It's quite rainy in West Palm Beach. In July, West Palm Beach usually receives more rain than Alexandria. West Palm Beach gets 6.5 inches (166 mm) of rain, while Alexandria receives 3.5 inches (88 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit West Palm Beach or Alexandria in the Autumn?

Both Alexandria and West Palm Beach during the autumn are popular places to visit. Furthermore, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Alexandria this time of year.

West Palm Beach is much warmer than Alexandria in the autumn. The daily temperature in West Palm Beach averages around 78°F (25°C) in October, and Alexandria fluctuates around 60°F (15°C).

It's quite sunny in West Palm Beach. In the autumn, West Palm Beach often gets more sunshine than Alexandria. West Palm Beach gets 275 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Alexandria receives 197 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in West Palm Beach. West Palm Beach usually gets more rain in October than Alexandria. West Palm Beach gets 8.7 inches (222 mm) of rain, while Alexandria receives 2.9 inches (73 mm) of rain this time of the year. Keep in mind that June to November is the hurricane season in West Palm Beach.

Should I visit West Palm Beach or Alexandria in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both West Palm Beach and Alexandria. The cuisine are the main draw to West Palm Beach this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Alexandria for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Alexandria. In the winter, West Palm Beach is much warmer than Alexandria. Typically, the winter temperatures in West Palm Beach in January average around 65°F (19°C), and Alexandria averages at about 35°F (1°C).

In West Palm Beach, it's very sunny this time of the year. West Palm Beach usually receives more sunshine than Alexandria during winter. West Palm Beach gets 243 hours of sunny skies, while Alexandria receives 139 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, West Palm Beach usually receives around the same amount of rain as Alexandria. West Palm Beach gets 2.6 inches (66 mm) of rain, while Alexandria receives 2.7 inches (68 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit West Palm Beach or Alexandria in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to West Palm Beach as well as Alexandria. Many travelers come to West Palm Beach for the beaches. Additionally, many visitors come to Alexandria in the spring for the small town charm and the natural beauty.

In April, West Palm Beach is generally much warmer than Alexandria. Daily temperatures in West Palm Beach average around 74°F (23°C), and Alexandria fluctuates around 56°F (14°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Alexandria. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in West Palm Beach this time of the year. In the spring, West Palm Beach often gets more sunshine than Alexandria. West Palm Beach gets 300 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Alexandria receives 228 hours of full sun.

West Palm Beach usually gets more rain in April than Alexandria. West Palm Beach gets 3.5 inches (89 mm) of rain, while Alexandria receives 2.8 inches (72 mm) of rain this time of the year. Also, June to November in West Palm Beach is the hurricane season.

Typical Weather for Alexandria and West Palm Beach