A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Wilmington vs. Newport for Couples, Attractions, Food, and Beaches

Should you visit Wilmington or Newport?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Wilmington or Newport, this travel comparison, which includes costs, can help. The overall cost of travel is usually a consideration when deciding where to go next, and the cost comparison down below can help you decide based on the average prices from other travelers along with your own travel budget.

Wilmington

Wilmington is a welcoming, charming, and historic city. It's also popular because of the shopping, museums, and nightlife. See Wilmington travel costs.

Newport

Newport is a charming, coastal, and seaside town. With fun activities and sights, this is a small town worth visiting. Newport is a gorgeous place to visit. Other reasons to visit include museums, nightlife, and food. See Newport travel costs.

Wilmington and Newport: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Wilmington or Newport?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Newport than Wilmington, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Newport is more touristy than Wilmington and is known for its sailing regattas, its mansions along Bellevue Avenue, and its maritime history. Also, Newport is famous for Thames Street. Wilmington is well known for its laid back beaches, historical waterfront area, and university setting.

How is Wilmington different from Newport?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Wilmington or Newport?

Newport is great for its historical sights. Also, Wilmington is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its sights and museums.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Newport can be an interesting and educational experience. The historic mansions and local museums educate visitors on the town's maritime past and colonial roots. Some of the more popular places to visit include The Breakers, The Elms Mansion, The Marble House, and Chateau-sur-mer Mansion.

Wilmington offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. There are art, history, and science museums around town. The Battleship North Carolina is a popular destination. Science enthusiasts will enjoy a visit to the Cape Fear Museum of History and Science or the North Carolina Aquarium at Fort Fisher. For art, head to the Cameron Art Museum or Art in Bloom Gallery.

Is the Food Better in Wilmington or Newport? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Newport is great for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Wilmington is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its local cuisine and restaurants.

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in Newport. Find a waterfront restaurant and enjoy fresh seafood and a charming atmosphere. Many restaurants are influenced by the town's Portuguese and Irish roots. You'll find classic pubs as well as brunch cafes and traditional taverns.

Visitors will find a budding food and restaurant scene in Wilmington. Head to the waterfront for local seafood restaurants that offer outdoor seating and fresh caught fish. There are also farm-to-table restaurants and local diners with casual food.

Is Wilmington or Newport Better for Nightlife?

The vibe at night is notable in both Wilmington and Newport.

If you're looking for night time activities Wilmington has a few options to choose from. Live music is popular around town. There are also bars, lounges and dance clubs. When the weather is warm, many places make use of the outdoor setting, which makes for a relaxed and fun evening.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Newport. There's a lively atmosphere in the evening with many pubs, taverns, and bars that keep the energy high.

Is Wilmington or Newport Better for Beaches?

Both Wilmington and Newport have excellent beaches worth visiting.

You'll have a great beach vacation in Wilmington. Nearby you'll find Wrightsville Beach, Kure Beach, and Carolina Beach. They have long stretches of sand and great waves. The water is usually warm enough for swimming between the months of April and October. During these peak months parking can be challenging, but during the quieter times, you shouldn't have trouble.

The beaches at Newport attract visitors from all over. Tucked in along the rocky coastline are many beautiful sandy beaches. You'll find popular and active beaches where you can lounge in a chair and people watch, as well as more secluded spots where you can enjoy a more peaceful setting. The largest beach is Easton's Beach (also known as First Beach). Surfers and boaters enjoy Sachuest Beach (or Second Beach), and a less popular, but very rewarding beach is also King Park Beach.

Is Wilmington or Newport Better for its Old Town?

Newport is great for its historic old town. Also, Wilmington is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its old town.

Many visitors go to Newport to see the historical old town. The Historic District is filled with colonial buildings and impressive mansions. There are cobblestone streets and a charming loop through the town's Old Quarter.

Many people head to Wilmington to see the old town. The Historic District is along the waterfront and has 18th and 19th century architecture. There are also great restaurants and interesting shops.

Is the Shopping Better in Wilmington or Newport?

Newport is great for shopping. Also, Wilmington is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its shopping opportunities.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Newport. Walk along the charming cobblestone streets and pop in the many local boutiques and shops.

Wilmington offers some nice shopping areas. Head downtown for the most interesting local shops. You'll find boutiques and souvenir shops where you can pick up art, accessories, or antiques.

Is Wilmington or Newport More Beautiful?

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

Newport is a gorgeous place to visit. The coastal setting and charming architecture give it a lot of character.

Wilmington is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Wilmington or Newport Better for Families?

Wilmington and Newport are both excellent destinations for the whole family.

Wilmington is a very family-friendly destination. Near town you'll find several beaches - Wrightsville Beach, Kure Beach, and Carolina Beach. They're all family-friendly and perfect for a day's activity. The city also has the North Carolina Aquarium at Fort Fisher, the Children's Museum of Wilmington, and the Wilmington Railroad Museum. For a rainy day there are also indoor play areas and entertainment centers.

Newport is a very kid-friendly city. For an educational and interactive experience, head to Save The Bay Exploration Center & Aquarium. The Norman Bird Sanctuary also has a lot of land and places to explore. Kids will enjoy a visit to the beach or running around Breton Point State Park as well. On a rainy day, Ryans Family Amusements is the perfect way to pass some time.

Is Wilmington or Newport Better for Couples?

Newport is a must-visit destination for romance. Also, Wilmington is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its romantic activities.

Newport has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. It's a coastal town with a lot of charm that makes for a perfect romantic escape. Enjoy dining and shopping along Thames Street or take a walk along the coast. There are many local restaurants and evening activities for couples as well.

Wilmington is a very popular place to visit for couples. The beaches are great for a relaxing day of swimming and sunbathing. In the evening head into town and enjoy one of the local seafood restaurants on the waterfront. You'll also find great shopping and historical sights in the area.

Is Wilmington or Newport Better for Students?

Wilmington is very good for its student-friendly activities. However, Newport is not popular with students.

Plenty of students visit Wilmington. The University of North Carolina at Wilmington is a popular school that brings many students to town.

Newport is not popular with students.

Is Wilmington or Newport Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Newport is a nice place to visit for times when you don't have a car. However, Wilmington is not a good destination for its public transit.

While Newport offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There are buses operated by RIPTA. You can visit most of the attractions in the downtown area by catching a ride on one of the classic green and gold hybrid trolley buses.

Public transit is generally limited in Wilmington. There are public buses around town, but for practical reasons, you'll want to have your own vehicle.

Is Wilmington or Newport a more walkable city?

Newport is great for its walkability. Also, Wilmington is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its high level of walkability.

Newport is very walkable. The town's downtown are compact and fun to explore on foot. There is a nice concentration of shops, restaurants, hotels and sights.

Wilmington is a somewhat walkable place. The Historic District is best explored on foot. You can also get around Wrightsville Beach on foot, but traveling between these places requires a car.

For even more information, also check out Is Wilmington Worth Visiting? and Is Newport Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Newport or Wilmington?

How long in Wilmington or Newport?

In either Wilmington or Newport, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. In our opinion, Newport has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Newport than Wilmington. However, 2-5 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Newport than Wilmington 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 Newport.

One day in Wilmington or Newport?

In Wilmington, you'll find nightlife and food. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. 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 nightlife around the seaside town of Newport, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Wilmington or Newport?

In Wilmington, you'll find food and shopping. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Most people come for the beaches. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Wilmington has to offer.

With nightlife and food around the destination of Newport, there's plenty to do. It's also a great beach destination, too. It offers something for everyone. Many people spend a weekend here. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this town.

Five days in Wilmington or Newport?

Wilmington is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Wilmington has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

Newport, a popular town, is full of activities for travelers. This is a popular place to visit for five days. Visiting the old town is also a must. In five days, you should have a good grasp of this town. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

A week in Wilmington or Newport?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Wilmington. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Wilmington. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

Newport 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 Tours for Seniors to United States of America, The Best Contiki Tours to United States of America, The Best G Adventures Tours to United States of America, and The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Las Vegas.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Wilmington or Newport?

Wilmington has a larger population, and is about 4 times larger than the population of Newport. When comparing the sizes of Wilmington and Newport, 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 Wilmington or Newport?

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 Wilmington or Newport in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Wilmington and Newport. Most visitors come to Wilmington for the beaches and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Furthermore, the summer months attract visitors to Newport because of the beaches, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Wilmington is generally a little warmer than Newport. Daily temperatures in Wilmington average around 81°F (27°C), and Newport fluctuates around 73°F (23°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Newport this time of the year. In Wilmington, it's very sunny this time of the year. Wilmington usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Newport during summer. Wilmington gets 283 hours of sunny skies, while Newport receives 293 hours of full sun in the summer.

Wilmington gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In July, Wilmington usually receives more rain than Newport. Wilmington gets 8.1 inches (207 mm) of rain, while Newport receives 2.8 inches (72 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Wilmington or Newport in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Wilmington as well as Newport. The autumn months attract visitors to Wilmington because of the shopping scene. Additionally, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Newport this time of year.

Wilmington is much warmer than Newport in the autumn. The daily temperature in Wilmington averages around 65°F (18°C) in October, and Newport fluctuates around 53°F (12°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Newport. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Wilmington this time of the year. In the autumn, Wilmington often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Newport. Wilmington gets 227 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Newport receives 211 hours of full sun.

Wilmington usually gets less rain in October than Newport. Wilmington gets 2.7 inches (68 mm) of rain, while Newport receives 3.3 inches (83 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Wilmington or Newport in the Winter?

Both Newport and Wilmington are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Wilmington this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Newport for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Newport. In the winter, Wilmington is much warmer than Newport. Typically, the winter temperatures in Wilmington in January average around 45°F (7°C), and Newport averages at about 28°F (-2°C).

Wilmington usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Newport during winter. Wilmington gets 180 hours of sunny skies, while Newport receives 170 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Wilmington usually receives more rain than Newport. Wilmington gets 3.9 inches (98 mm) of rain, while Newport receives 3.5 inches (89 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Wilmington or Newport in the Spring?

Both Newport and Wilmington during the spring are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Wilmington for the beaches. Also, many visitors come to Newport in the spring for the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty.

In April, Wilmington is generally much warmer than Newport. Daily temperatures in Wilmington average around 63°F (17°C), and Newport fluctuates around 48°F (9°C).

In Newport, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Wilmington. In the spring, Wilmington often gets more sunshine than Newport. Wilmington gets 278 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Newport receives 225 hours of full sun.

Wilmington usually gets less rain in April than Newport. Wilmington gets 2.9 inches (73 mm) of rain, while Newport receives 3.7 inches (94 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Newport and Wilmington