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

Should you visit West Palm Beach or Providence?

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

Should I visit West Palm Beach or Providence? 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.

Providence

Providence is a friendly, fascinating, and active city. Other reasons to visit include museums, nightlife, and food. See Providence travel costs.

West Palm Beach and Providence: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Active nightlife
  • Nice resorts
  • Good scuba and snorkeling destination
  • Popular beach
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for food
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students


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

Visitors will generally find more to do in West Palm Beach than Providence. While Providence is larger than West Palm Beach, West Palm Beach has more sights, attractions, and activities for tourists. West Palm Beach is better known for its nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, and beaches, while Providence is more popular for its museums and attractions, food, and shopping. West Palm Beach is more touristy than Providence and is known for its nice resorts, a lively boardwalk, great seafood, and fun watersports. Also, West Palm Beach is famous for Rosemary Square. Providence is well known for its outdoor parks, historic atmosphere, and college town vibe.

How is West Palm Beach different from Providence?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

West Palm Beach
Providence

Providence is a popular place for its historical sights. However, West Palm Beach does not have museums and landmarks.

Providence is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. There are several historical museums around town as well as art museums, zoos, a planetarium and natural history museum, and even a children's museum.

West Palm Beach does not have museums and landmarks.


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

West Palm Beach
Providence

Providence 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 Providence. The food scene around town has grown and diversified in recent years. You'll find a mix of international and local options and for such a small city, it really has a lot to offer.

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 Providence Better for Nightlife?

West Palm Beach
Providence

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

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.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Providence. Comedy clubs, bars, and clubs keep the energy high during the evening hours. It's not hard to find something to do, particularly on weekend nights.

Is West Palm Beach or Providence Better for Resorts?

West Palm Beach
Providence

West Palm Beach is an unbeatable place for its luxury resorts. However, Providence 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.

Providence is not a resort destination.


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

West Palm Beach
Providence

West Palm Beach is a great beach area for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Providence 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.

Providence is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is West Palm Beach or Providence Better for Beaches?

West Palm Beach
Providence

West Palm Beach is an unbeatable place for the beach. However, Providence 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.

Providence is not a beach destination.

Is the Shopping Better in West Palm Beach or Providence?

West Palm Beach
Providence

Providence is a popular place for shopping. However, West Palm Beach is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Plenty of visitors enjoy shopping while in Providence. Malls, shopping centers, and boutiques all offer a range of shopping experiences around town.

West Palm Beach is not a noteworthy shopping destination.


Is West Palm Beach or Providence Better for Families?

West Palm Beach
Providence

West Palm Beach is a great beach area for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Providence 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 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.

Providence is a family-friendly place to visit. There are opportunities for kids to interact with animals at the Roger Williams Park Zoo, as well as plenty of places for kids to run around like Rocky Point Park or Goddard Memorial State Park. There's also the Providence Children's Museum, go carting, and entertainment centers.

Is West Palm Beach or Providence Better for Couples?

West Palm Beach
Providence

West Palm Beach is a great beach area for couples. Also, Providence is not as popular, but is still a nice city for romance.

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.

Providence is a nice destination for couples. You can see a show at the Providence Performing Arts Center or visit some of the city's historic buildings and museums. There are also parks and coastal walks as well as many great restaurants.

Is West Palm Beach or Providence Better for Students?

West Palm Beach
Providence

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

Providence is a very popular city for students and younger travelers. There's a college town vibe to this small city because it's home to Brown University, which is a member of the Ivy League.

West Palm Beach is not popular with students.


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

West Palm Beach
Providence

West Palm Beach and Providence both offer notable public transit to get you around.

While West Palm Beach offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. 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.

Providence has a few public transit options. There are RIPTA buses that travel around town.

Is West Palm Beach or Providence a more walkable city?

West Palm Beach
Providence

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

Providence is very walkable. It's a walkable city and it's relatively easy to explore on foot.

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 Providence Worth Visiting?.

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

How long in West Palm Beach or Providence?

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

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

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


  • How many days in West Palm Beach or Providence? Ideal Length of Stay
    West Palm Beach 3-7 
    Providence 2-3

One day in West Palm Beach or Providence?

With scuba diving and snorkeling and nightlife around the vibrant 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 active destination of Providence offers nightlife and food. 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 Providence?

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 Providence offers food and shopping. 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 Providence?

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.

Providence is a great place to explore. 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 Providence?

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 Providence. 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.


Which place is cheaper, Providence or West Palm Beach?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations. These travel costs come from the actual spending of real travelers.

  • West Palm Beach Prices
    USA Prices
    Providence Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    West Palm Beach $378
    Providence $245

The average daily cost (per person) in West Palm Beach is $378, while the average daily cost in Providence is $245. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for West Palm Beach and Providence in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    West Palm Beach $234
    Providence $114
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    West Palm Beach $468
    Providence $228
Compare Hotels in West Palm Beach and Providence

Looking for a hotel in West Palm Beach or Providence? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in West Palm Beach


Hotels in Providence


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: West Palm Beach Hotel Prices and Providence Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    West Palm Beach $49
    Providence $46

Hired Cars and Shuttles in West Palm Beach

Also for West Palm Beach, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Palm Beach Airport (PBI) to Palm Beach City - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $212
  • Cruise Port of Palm Beach to Palm Beach Arrival Private Transfer: $155
  • Private Transfer from PBI to Palm Beach City : $149
  • Limo Service Transfer To or From Palm Beach Airport and Hotels: $139
  • Cruise Port of Palm Beach to Palm Beach hotels - Arrival Private Transfer : $109
  • Private Transfer from Palm Beach Airport (PBI) to Palm Beach Port: $72
  • Private Transfer from Cruise Port of Palm Beach to Palm Beach: $72
  • Private Transfer from Palm Beach to Palm Beach Cruise Port: $72
  • Palm Beach International Airport: Transfer to Palm Beach: $70
  • Port of Palm Beach to Palm Beach Intl Airport (PBI) - Departure Private Transfer: $42

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Providence

Also for Providence, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Private Transfer from Providence City Hotels to Newport Port: $133
  • Private Transfer from Providence Airport (PVD) to Newport Port : $125
  • T. F. Green State Airport (PVD) to Providence - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $81
  • Providence to Boston Airport (BOS) - Departure Private Transfer: $69
  • Providence to Rhode Island Airport PVD Departure Transfer : $40
  • T. F. Green State Airport (PVD) to Providence – Arrival Private Transfer : $40
  • Private Airport Transfer TO/FROM Providence TF Green Airport PVD: $32

Is it cheaper to fly into West Palm Beach or Providence?

Prices for flights to both Providence and West Palm Beach change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    West Palm Beach $114
    Providence $82

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in West Palm Beach

For West Palm Beach, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Mornings in the Market Food Tour: $75
  • Mornings in the Market Food Tour: $75
  • Downtown West Palm Beach Food Tour: $94
  • Downtown Food Tour: $94
  • Food Tour of Historic West Palm Beach Neighborhoods: $105
  • Prohibition Dinner & Drinks Tour: $110
  • Prohibition Dinner & Drinks Tour: $110

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Providence

For Providence, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Downcity Providence Food Tour: $99
  • Federal Hill Dinner Stroll A Guided Italian Culinary Experience: $150
  • Federal Hill Dinner Stroll with Italian Dinner: $150

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    West Palm Beach $19
    Providence $26

Tours and Activities in West Palm Beach

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for West Palm Beach.

  • 2 ½ - Hour Guided Snorkel Tour of Phil Foster park, Free Videos!: $44
  • 3 Hour Cruise & Swimming Excursion from Downtown West Palm Beach: $77
  • Beginner Scuba Diving Experience With Videos in West Palm Beach: $99
  • Blue Heron Bridge Guided Snorkel Tour : $80
  • Bulk Candy Store Tour: $13
  • Clear Kayak Eco Tour in Jupiter, Florida: $75
  • Clear Kayak Peanut Island Guided Tour Palm Beach Singer Island: $90
  • Cruise the Palm Beach Intracoastal on a 90 minute Tour : $65
  • Experience Peanut Island Adventures: $50
  • Experience Peanut Island Adventures with Go Pro : $300
  • Flamingle Happy Hour Cruise: $40
  • Guided Clear Kayak Eco-Tour of Jupiter: $89

Tours and Activities in Providence

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Providence.

  • Providence Downtown and Brown Self Guided App GPS Walking Tour: $9.75
  • Boat Tour of Green Jacket Shoal: $46
  • Creative Capital: Art and Architecture Tour of Providence: $40
  • Dark Tales: Haunted Authors of Providence Tour: $35
  • Dark Tales: The Haunted Authors of Providence Tour: $30
  • Discover Providence Guided Sightseeing Tour: $45
  • Haunted Boat Tours: $54
  • Haunted Boat Tours in Providence: $55
  • Haunted History Walking Tour of Providence: $30
  • Historic Providence Boat Tours: $45
  • Murder Mystery Detective Experience in Providence RI: $15
  • Parasols and Pocket Watches: A History Tour: $30

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    West Palm Beach $39
    Providence $13


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

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 Providence Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, West Palm Beach or Providence?

Providence has a larger population, and is about 2 times larger than the population of West Palm Beach. When comparing the sizes of West Palm Beach and Providence, 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 Providence?

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 Providence in the Summer?

Both Providence 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 Providence because of the family-friendly experiences.

In July, West Palm Beach is generally a little warmer than Providence. Daily temperatures in West Palm Beach average around 82°F (28°C), and Providence fluctuates around 73°F (23°C).

It's quite sunny in Providence. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in West Palm Beach. West Palm Beach usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Providence during summer. West Palm Beach gets 316 hours of sunny skies, while Providence receives 293 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 Providence. West Palm Beach gets 6.5 inches (166 mm) of rain, while Providence receives 2.8 inches (72 mm) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    West Palm Beach 82°F (28°C) 
    Providence 73°F (23°C)

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

Both Providence and West Palm Beach during the autumn are popular places to visit. Also, the shopping scene are the main draw to Providence this time of year.

West Palm Beach is much warmer than Providence in the autumn. The daily temperature in West Palm Beach averages around 78°F (25°C) in October, and Providence fluctuates around 53°F (12°C).

In Providence, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in West Palm Beach. In the autumn, West Palm Beach often gets more sunshine than Providence. West Palm Beach gets 275 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Providence receives 211 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 Providence. West Palm Beach gets 8.7 inches (222 mm) of rain, while Providence receives 3.3 inches (83 mm) of rain this time of the year. Keep in mind that June to November is the hurricane season in West Palm Beach.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    West Palm Beach 78°F (25°C) 
    Providence 53°F (12°C)

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

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

Be prepared for some very cold days in Providence. In the winter, West Palm Beach is much warmer than Providence. Typically, the winter temperatures in West Palm Beach in January average around 65°F (19°C), and Providence averages at about 28°F (-2°C).

In West Palm Beach, it's very sunny this time of the year. West Palm Beach usually receives more sunshine than Providence during winter. West Palm Beach gets 243 hours of sunny skies, while Providence receives 170 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, West Palm Beach usually receives less rain than Providence. West Palm Beach gets 2.6 inches (66 mm) of rain, while Providence receives 3.5 inches (89 mm) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    West Palm Beach 65°F (19°C) 
    Providence 28°F (-2°C)

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

The spring brings many poeple to West Palm Beach as well as Providence. Many travelers come to West Palm Beach for the beaches.

In April, West Palm Beach is generally much warmer than Providence. Daily temperatures in West Palm Beach average around 74°F (23°C), and Providence fluctuates around 48°F (9°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Providence. 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 Providence. West Palm Beach gets 300 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Providence receives 225 hours of full sun.

West Palm Beach usually gets around the same amount of rain in April as Providence. West Palm Beach gets 3.5 inches (89 mm) of rain, while Providence receives 3.7 inches (94 mm) of rain this time of the year. Also, June to November in West Palm Beach is the hurricane season.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    West Palm Beach 74°F (23°C) 
    Providence 48°F (9°C)

Typical Weather for Providence and West Palm Beach

West Palm Beach Providence
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 65°F (19°C) 2.6 inches (66 mm) 28°F (-2°C) 3.5 inches (89 mm)
Feb 66°F (19°C) 2.6 inches (66 mm) 30°F (-1°C) 3.5 inches (88 mm)
Mar 70°F (21°C) 3.3 inches (84 mm) 38°F (3°C) 4 inches (101 mm)
Apr 74°F (23°C) 3.5 inches (89 mm) 48°F (9°C) 3.7 inches (94 mm)
May 78°F (25°C) 5.2 inches (131 mm) 58°F (15°C) 3.5 inches (89 mm)
Jun 81°F (27°C) 8.1 inches (207 mm) 67°F (20°C) 2.6 inches (67 mm)
Jul 82°F (28°C) 6.5 inches (166 mm) 73°F (23°C) 2.8 inches (72 mm)
Aug 83°F (28°C) 6.9 inches (176 mm) 72°F (22°C) 3.9 inches (99 mm)
Sep 81°F (27°C) 9.8 inches (250 mm) 64°F (18°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm)
Oct 78°F (25°C) 8.7 inches (222 mm) 53°F (12°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm)
Nov 72°F (22°C) 2.5 inches (63 mm) 44°F (7°C) 4.5 inches (115 mm)
Dec 67°F (20°C) 2.2 inches (56 mm) 33°F (0°C) 4.1 inches (105 mm)