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

Should you visit West Palm Beach or Philadelphia?

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

Should I visit West Palm Beach or Philadelphia? 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 diverse, vibrant, and fun-filled beach area. Visitors also love the scuba diving and snorkeling, beaches, and nightlife. See West Palm Beach travel costs.

Philadelphia

Philadelphia is a diverse, historic, and cultural city. It's a large city with plenty of activites for visitors as well. Philadelphia is a gorgeous place to visit. Other reasons to visit include shopping, museums, and theater. See Philadelphia travel costs.

West Palm Beach and Philadelphia: Pros and Cons

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

Tourists will generally find more to do in Philadelphia than West Palm Beach. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Philadelphia is very popular for its museums and attractions, theatre productions, food, music, historical sights, shopping, christmas markets, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while West Palm Beach attracts visitors for its resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, and beaches. West Palm Beach is more touristy than Philadelphia and is known for its nice resorts, a lively boardwalk, great seafood, and fun watersports. Philadelphia is famous for its diverse population, large number of universities, great restaurant and market scene, and its role in American history. It is also well known for The Liberty Bell.

How is West Palm Beach different from Philadelphia?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Philadelphia is very popular for its historical sights. However, West Palm Beach does not have museums and landmarks.

Travelers visit Philadelphia from around the world to see its many world-famous attractions. The city has a rich history with a number of museums and monuments. Popular sites around the city include the Liberty Bell, Independence Hall, the Philadelphia Museum of Art, and the National Museum of Jewish American History.

West Palm Beach does not have museums and landmarks.

Is West Palm Beach or Philadelphia Better for Theater?

Philadelphia is a great city for theatre. However, West Palm Beach is not a theatre destination.

While in town, many visitors enjoy seeing a show in Philadelphia. There are major Broadway shows as well as smaller venues. Head to The Avenue of the Arts along Broad Street for a popular stretch of theaters.

West Palm Beach is not a theatre destination.

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

Philadelphia 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 Philadelphia. It has grown into a well-recognized food destination. It's diversity of cultures and residents have influenced the restaurant scene and you'll find many great places to dine covering a number of international flavors. The city is famous for its Philly cheesesteak and roast pork sandwich. You can also grab some local favorites at Reading Terminal Market.

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 Philadelphia Better for Nightlife?

If the nightlife is your priority, you'll find very good options in both West Palm Beach and Philadelphia.

The nightlife in West Palm Beach has something for everybody. 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.

Philadelphia offers plenty to do in the evening. The city's nightlife scene carries late into the evening with many rooftop and outdoor beer gardens. Most of the clubs and bars are found in the downtown area and you'll find places to dance, listen to live music, or sip a trendy cocktails.

Is West Palm Beach or Philadelphia Better for Music?

Philadelphia is a great city for live music. However, West Palm Beach is not a live music destination.

Philadelphia has a thriving music scene. The city's diverse music scene includes jazz, rock, and hip hop.

West Palm Beach is not a live music destination.

Is West Palm Beach or Philadelphia Better for Resorts?

West Palm Beach is a must-visit destination for its luxury resorts. However, Philadelphia is not a resort destination.

West Palm Beach offers an unforgettable resort vacation. All of the major names are present including the Hilton, Marriott, and Four Seasons.

Philadelphia is not a resort destination.

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

West Palm Beach is an excellent place to visit for its diving and snorkeling. However, Philadelphia is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Many visitors go to West Palm Beach to enjoy scuba diving and snorkeling. Check out Phil Foster Park in Rivera Beach. It's a man-made reef that is surprisingly clear.

Philadelphia is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is West Palm Beach or Philadelphia Better for Beaches?

West Palm Beach is a must-visit destination for the beach. However, Philadelphia is not a beach destination.

The beaches in West Palm Beach are among the best in 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.

Philadelphia is not a beach destination.

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

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

Philadelphia is a good destination for visiting its old town. The Old City has a number of Colonial-era sites including Independence Hall, the Liberty Bell, the Betsy Ross House.

West Palm Beach does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in West Palm Beach or Philadelphia?

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

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Philadelphia. With all items tax-free, this city is a great place to shop. It has many boutique shops as well as name brand stores and shopping areas. For a local vibe, head to Reading Terminal Market.

West Palm Beach is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is West Palm Beach or Philadelphia More Beautiful?

Philadelphia is a popular place for its scenery and beauty. However, West Palm Beach is not a destination known for its beauty.

Philadelphia is a gorgeous place to visit. With its diverse neighborhoods and rich history, this city offers its own type of beauty.

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

Is West Palm Beach or Philadelphia Better for Families?

Kids will enjoy a visit to either West Palm Beach or Philadelphia.

West Palm Beach is a very family-friendly destination. 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.

Philadelphia is a very kid-friendly beach area. The city has many museums and a fascinating history that is interesting to kids and adults alike. Popular activities include a zoo and Sesame Place. Kids also love the hands-on Please Touch Museum.

Is West Palm Beach or Philadelphia Better for Couples?

West Palm Beach is an excellent place to visit for its romantic activities. Also, Philadelphia is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for couples.

West Palm Beach makes for a fun place to visit for 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.

Philadelphia is a good beach area for couples to visit. Like many large cities, it is a fun place to explore in the evening as a couple. This is also a great foodie destination with great markets, food trucks, and diverse restaurants that reflect the city's diverse population.

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

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

Plenty of budget travelers visit Philadelphia. There are a few good hostels for backpackers and budget travelers to choose from.

West Palm Beach is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

Is West Palm Beach or Philadelphia Better for Students?

Philadelphia is a great city for its student-friendly activities. However, West Palm Beach is not popular with students.

Philadelphia is a very popular city for students and younger travelers. With its many universities and diverse population, this city is a great place for international students.

West Palm Beach is not popular with students.

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

Philadelphia is a great city 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.

Public transit in Philadelphia is fairly effecient and thorough. The system includes a subway, trolleys, buses, and a commuter rail.

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 Philadelphia a more walkable city?

Philadelphia 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.

Philadelphia is a very easy city to get around on foot. The Old City is particularly walkable, as is Avenue of the Arts, and Rittenhouse Square.

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 Philadelphia Worth Visiting?.

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

How long in West Palm Beach or Philadelphia?

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

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Philadelphia 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 Philadelphia.

One day in West Palm Beach or Philadelphia?

In West Palm Beach, many people enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and nightlife that this diverse beach area offers. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

Philadelphia is a big city with plenty to do. It's no surprise that museums is why people visit. 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 Philadelphia?

West Palm Beach is a fun place to experience. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. Lots of people come for the beaches. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring.

Philadelphia is a big city with plenty to do. 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 Philadelphia?

In West Palm Beach, many people enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and nightlife that this diverse destination offers. Most people come for the beaches. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Plenty of people spend five days in the area when traveling. Lots of people come for the beaches. So, five days is just the right amount of time to spend here.

Philadelphia is a great place to explore. It's no surprise that museums is why people visit. 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 Philadelphia?

West Palm Beach is a popular place to visit. Many people spend one week here. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then one week is just the right amount of time to spend here. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Many people enjoy the live music and food when visiting Philadelphia. 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 Philadelphia, we can see that West Palm Beach is more expensive. And not only is Philadelphia much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Philadelphia would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Philadelphia 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 Philadelphia.

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 Philadelphia Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, West Palm Beach or Philadelphia?

Philadelphia has a larger population, and is about 20 times larger than the population of West Palm Beach. When comparing the sizes of West Palm Beach and Philadelphia, 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 Philadelphia?

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 Philadelphia in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both West Palm Beach and Philadelphia. Many travelers come to West Palm Beach for the beaches, snorkeling, and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, many visitors come to Philadelphia in the summer for the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, West Palm Beach is a little warmer than Philadelphia. Typically, the summer temperatures in West Palm Beach in July average around 82°F (28°C), and Philadelphia averages at about 77°F (25°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Philadelphia this time of the year. In West Palm Beach, it's very sunny this time of the year. West Palm Beach usually receives more sunshine than Philadelphia during summer. West Palm Beach gets 316 hours of sunny skies, while Philadelphia receives 273 hours of full sun in the summer.

Philadelphia receives a lot of rain in the summer. West Palm Beach gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In July, West Palm Beach usually receives more rain than Philadelphia. West Palm Beach gets 6.5 inches (166 mm) of rain, while Philadelphia receives 3.9 inches (100 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

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

The autumn brings many poeple to West Palm Beach as well as Philadelphia. Additionally, most visitors come to Philadelphia for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

In October, West Palm Beach is generally much warmer than Philadelphia. Daily temperatures in West Palm Beach average around 78°F (25°C), and Philadelphia fluctuates around 56°F (14°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Philadelphia. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in West Palm Beach this time of the year. In the autumn, West Palm Beach often gets more sunshine than Philadelphia. West Palm Beach gets 275 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Philadelphia receives 202 hours of full sun.

West Palm Beach receives a lot of rain in the autumn. West Palm Beach usually gets more rain in October than Philadelphia. West Palm Beach gets 8.7 inches (222 mm) of rain, while Philadelphia receives 1.9 inches (48 mm) of rain this time of the year. Also, June to November in West Palm Beach is the hurricane season.

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

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

The weather in Philadelphia can be very cold. West Palm Beach is much warmer than Philadelphia in the winter. The daily temperature in West Palm Beach averages around 65°F (19°C) in January, and Philadelphia fluctuates around 30°F (-1°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in West Palm Beach. West Palm Beach usually receives more sunshine than Philadelphia during winter. West Palm Beach gets 243 hours of sunny skies, while Philadelphia receives 152 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, West Palm Beach usually receives more rain than Philadelphia. West Palm Beach gets 2.6 inches (66 mm) of rain, while Philadelphia receives 2.3 inches (58 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

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

Both Philadelphia and West Palm Beach during the spring are popular places to visit. The spring months attract visitors to West Palm Beach because of the beaches. Also, the activities around the city and the natural beauty are the main draw to Philadelphia this time of year.

In the spring, West Palm Beach is much warmer than Philadelphia. Typically, the spring temperatures in West Palm Beach in April average around 74°F (23°C), and Philadelphia averages at about 52°F (11°C).

In Philadelphia, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in West Palm Beach. In the spring, West Palm Beach often gets more sunshine than Philadelphia. West Palm Beach gets 300 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Philadelphia receives 216 hours of full sun.

West Palm Beach usually gets more rain in April than Philadelphia. West Palm Beach gets 3.5 inches (89 mm) of rain, while Philadelphia receives 2.8 inches (70 mm) of rain this time of the year. Also, the hurricane season in West Palm Beach is June to November.

Typical Weather for Philadelphia and West Palm Beach