A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Williamsburg vs. Minneapolis for Families, Attractions, Food, and Nightlife

Should you visit Williamsburg or Minneapolis?

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

Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for Williamsburg and Minneapolis. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.

Williamsburg

Williamsburg is a charming, quaint, and well-preserved town. Williamsburg is a beautiful place to visit, too. Visitors also love the shopping, museums, and food. See Williamsburg travel costs.

Minneapolis

Minneapolis is a diverse, dynamic, and innovative city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. Other popular activities here include shopping, museums, and nightlife. See Minneapolis travel costs.

Williamsburg and Minneapolis: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Williamsburg or Minneapolis?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Minneapolis. Although Williamsburg and Minneapolis are both popular with visitors, Minneapolis has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Minneapolis is more popular for its nightlife, shopping, and big city activities, while Williamsburg is known for its historical sights and impressive beauty. Williamsburg is more touristy than Minneapolis and is popular for its historic and colonial charm, its award winning amusement parks, and its historical reenactments. Minneapolis is popular for its professional sports teams, countless outdoor activities, and friendly people. It is also home to Mall of America.

How is Williamsburg different from Minneapolis?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Williamsburg or Minneapolis?

For an educational experience, head to a museum or a notable sight in either Williamsburg or Minneapolis.

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around Williamsburg. Colonial Williamsburg is like a living museum with reenactments and historic buildings that date back to the colonial days. In addition to the historic area, there are folk art museums and other historic sights in the area.

Minneapolis offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. There's a wide variety of museums that include art, history, science, and local culture. Some of the favorite museums in the city are the Minneapolis Institute of Art, the Walker Art Center, the American Swedish Institute, and the Weisman Art Museum.

Is the Food Better in Williamsburg or Minneapolis? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Foodies will find both Williamsburg and Minneapolis both to be great destinations.

Dining out in Williamsburg is an experience not to be missed. Head to Historic Williamsburg if you want to try some colonial classics. There are historic taverns that maintain their old world charm and serve dishes such as peanut soup and stewed beef. Around town you'll also find casual restaurants with pizza, macaroni and cheese, and burgers.

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in Minneapolis. Dishes in the Midwest are known for being hearty comfort foods, and the food in Minneapolis is no exception. You'll find cheese-stuffed burgers that are known as Juicy Lucys, Tator Tot casseroles, and deep-fried cheese curds. For international food, there's a variety of Scandinavian options around town.

Is Williamsburg or Minneapolis Better for Nightlife?

Minneapolis is a great destination for its evening party scene. However, Williamsburg is a town with minimal options for nightlife.

The people in Minneapolis know how to have a good time. There are diverse neighborhoods that each have their own personality. You'll find rooftop lounges in Uptown, international venues in Whittier, and trendy bars in the North Loop. But at the heart of the city's nightlife scene is Downtown Minneapolis.

Williamsburg doesn't have the most active nightlife scene. Despite its student population, there isn't much of a nightlife scene in town. There are restaurants where you can enjoy fine wine or cocktails, but nightclubs and bars are limited.

Is Williamsburg or Minneapolis Better for its Old Town?

Williamsburg is a world-class destination for its old town. However, Minneapolis does not have a historic old town.

The historic old town of Williamsburg is revered around the world. Colonial Williamsburg is an impressively maintained area with museums, shops, and taverns. There are live reenactments of historic events as well as blacksmiths, wig shops, and carriage rides. You can wander around without a ticket, but for access to many parts of the historic area you'll need to purchase a pass.

Minneapolis does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Williamsburg or Minneapolis?

Minneapolis is a world-class destination for its shopping areas. Also, Williamsburg is still popular, but not quite as popular for shopping.

Minneapolis is a world class destination for shoppers. Known for the megamall, Mall of America, this is a shopper's paradise. Mall of America is the largest shopping mall in the country and it even has an aquarium and a theme park within it. In addition to this iconic shopping mall, Minneapolis also has many shopping districts including the Minnehaha Mile.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Williamsburg. Charming shops both in the historic area and just outside sell unique items that reflect the city's past. There are souvenirs, food items, cookbooks, and home decor to choose from.

Is Williamsburg or Minneapolis More Beautiful?

Williamsburg is a nice place to visit for its scenery and beauty. However, Minneapolis is not a destination known for its beauty.

Williamsburg is a beautiful place to visit, too. The area's colonial architecture gives it a historic and traditional beauty that appeals to visitors and residents alike.

Minneapolis is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Williamsburg or Minneapolis Better for Families?

Williamsburg is a world-class destination for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Minneapolis is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

Williamsburg is an amazing family-friendly town to visit. Older kids will appreciate the history in the area. For kids of all ages there are a number of amusement parks and water parks such as Great Wolf Lodge, Busch Gardens, and the award winning Water Country USA.

Minneapolis is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. Mall of America is at the top of the list for most families, but there's also plenty of kid-friendly museums around town as well as nature centers, parks, and playgrounds. There's the Como Park Zoo and Conservatory, the Minnesota Zoo, and Afton Apple Orchard. For museums, kids will love the Minnesota Children's Museum or the Science Museum of Minnesota.

Is Williamsburg or Minneapolis Better for Couples?

Williamsburg is a very popular place for its romantic activities. Also, Minneapolis is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for couples.

Williamsburg makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Historic Williamsburg is filled with inns and charming restaurants that make this a beautiful destination for couples. There are quaint restaurants that serve colonial food and interesting southern shops with unique trinkets. You can also wander around the campus of William and Mary College.

Minneapolis is a good town for couples to visit. There are beautiful parks and outdoor spaces to explore as well as museums and fine dining. Couples will appreciate stopping by the Stone Arch Bridge or wandering through the Lyndale Park Rose Garden.

Is Williamsburg or Minneapolis Better for Students?

Williamsburg is a world-class destination for its student-friendly activities. Also, Minneapolis is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for students.

Williamsburg is a great destination for students. The College of William and Mary has a beautiful campus and students enjoy the charming atmosphere with colonial architecture around town. There are also good restaurants and a great collegiate vibe.

Students come from all over to stay in Minneapolis. There are a number of colleges and universities in the area including the University of Minnesota. The city is known for its academic and intellectual focus, and students will enjoy being challenged educationally while enjoying a dynamic city.

Is Williamsburg or Minneapolis Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Minneapolis is a good destination for its public transit. However, Williamsburg is a town with minimal options for times when you don't have a car.

You'll find some public transit in Minneapolis, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There are buses, light rail, and commuter trains that stop at many of the major entertainment centers around town.

Public transit is mostly limited in Williamsburg. There are buses around town, and they offer access to Historic Williamsburg, but for most places you'll need to have your own car.

Is Williamsburg or Minneapolis a more walkable city?

Minneapolis is a good destination for its ease of walking around. However, Williamsburg is a town with minimal options for its walkability.

Minneapolis is a somewhat walkable city. There are neighborhoods that are dense enough to be walkable, but the city is still very car-focused.

Williamsburg is generally not a very walkable town. Historic Williamsburg and the neighborhoods around the College of William and Mary are all walkable, but if you plan to visit the amusement parks then you'll absolutely need a car.

For even more information, also check out Is Williamsburg Worth Visiting? and Is Minneapolis Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Minneapolis or Williamsburg?

How long in Williamsburg or Minneapolis?

It's fun to spend time in either Williamsburg or Minneapolis. In our opinion, Williamsburg has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Williamsburg than Minneapolis. However, 2-4 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

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

Couples should spend more time in Williamsburg than Minneapolis. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Williamsburg that are great for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Minneapolis than Williamsburg 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 Minneapolis.

One day in Williamsburg or Minneapolis?

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the quaint town of Williamsburg. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

In Minneapolis, many people enjoy the food and shopping that this innovative city offers. 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.

A weekend in Williamsburg or Minneapolis?

Visitors enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the historic destination of Williamsburg. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. This town offers something for everyone. Plenty of people spend a weekend in the area when traveling. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

Minneapolis is a fun place to experience. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. Lots of people come for the shopping. So, a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

Five days in Williamsburg or Minneapolis?

The historic town of Williamsburg offers museums and food. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

You'll find museums and nightlife around the dynamic destination of Minneapolis. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Lots of people come for the shopping. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days.

A week in Williamsburg or Minneapolis?

Many people enjoy the food and shopping when visiting Williamsburg. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

Minneapolis is a popular place to visit. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Wildlife Tours to United States of America, The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in United States of America, The Best Historical Tours in United States of America, and The Best 10-Day Tours in United States of America.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Williamsburg or Minneapolis?

Minneapolis has a larger population, and is about 30 times larger than the population of Williamsburg. When comparing the sizes of Williamsburg and Minneapolis, 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 Williamsburg or Minneapolis?

Both places have a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. As both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Williamsburg or Minneapolis in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Williamsburg as well as Minneapolis. Many visitors come to Williamsburg in the summer for the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Minneapolis for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In July, Williamsburg is generally around the same temperature as Minneapolis. Daily temperatures in Williamsburg average around 78°F (26°C), and Minneapolis fluctuates around 76°F (25°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Minneapolis. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Williamsburg this time of the year. In the summer, Williamsburg often gets less sunshine than Minneapolis. Williamsburg gets 279 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Minneapolis receives 357 hours of full sun.

Williamsburg receives a lot of rain in the summer. Williamsburg usually gets more rain in July than Minneapolis. Williamsburg gets 4.7 inches (120 mm) of rain, while Minneapolis receives 3.4 inches (86 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Williamsburg or Minneapolis in the Autumn?

Both Minneapolis and Williamsburg are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Williamsburg for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area during these months. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Minneapolis because of the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene.

Williamsburg is a little warmer than Minneapolis in the autumn. The daily temperature in Williamsburg averages around 61°F (16°C) in October, and Minneapolis fluctuates around 52°F (11°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Williamsburg. Williamsburg usually receives more sunshine than Minneapolis during autumn. Williamsburg gets 211 hours of sunny skies, while Minneapolis receives 178 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Williamsburg usually receives more rain than Minneapolis. Williamsburg gets 2.8 inches (71 mm) of rain, while Minneapolis receives 1.8 inches (45 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Williamsburg or Minneapolis in the Winter?

Both Minneapolis and Williamsburg during the winter are popular places to visit. The winter months attract visitors to Williamsburg because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Furthermore, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Minneapolis this time of year.

It's quite cold in Minneapolis in the winter. The weather in Williamsburg can be very cold. In the winter, Williamsburg is much warmer than Minneapolis. Typically, the winter temperatures in Williamsburg in January average around 38°F (4°C), and Minneapolis averages at about 15°F (-10°C).

In the winter, Williamsburg often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Minneapolis. Williamsburg gets 168 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Minneapolis receives 157 hours of full sun.

Williamsburg usually gets more rain in January than Minneapolis. Williamsburg gets 3.6 inches (93 mm) of rain, while Minneapolis receives 0.9 inches (22 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Williamsburg or Minneapolis in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Williamsburg and Minneapolis. The natural beauty are the main draw to Williamsburg this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Minneapolis for the activities around the city.

In April, Williamsburg is generally a little warmer than Minneapolis. Daily temperatures in Williamsburg average around 57°F (14°C), and Minneapolis fluctuates around 49°F (10°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Minneapolis this time of the year. In Williamsburg, it's very sunny this time of the year. Williamsburg usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Minneapolis during spring. Williamsburg gets 253 hours of sunny skies, while Minneapolis receives 244 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Williamsburg usually receives more rain than Minneapolis. Williamsburg gets 3 inches (76 mm) of rain, while Minneapolis receives 2.1 inches (53 mm) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Minneapolis and Williamsburg