A Travel Price Comparison for Florida Boca Raton vs. Tallahassee for Attractions, Food, Nightlife, and Families

Should you visit Boca Raton or Tallahassee?

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 Boca Raton and Tallahassee. 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.

Boca Raton

Boca Raton is a relaxed, luxurious, and posh coastal city. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food.

Tallahassee

Tallahassee is a lively, vibrant, and youthful city. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and shopping.

Boca Raton and Tallahassee: Pros and Cons

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


Is there more to do in Boca Raton or Tallahassee?

Visitors will generally find more to do in Boca Raton than Tallahassee. While Tallahassee is larger than Boca Raton, Boca Raton has more sights, attractions, and activities for tourists. Boca Raton is more touristy than Tallahassee and is known for its golf courses, outdoor recreational activities, and safe atmosphere. It is also well known for Red Reef Park. Tallahassee is famous for its capital building and many universities.

How is Boca Raton different from Tallahassee?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Boca Raton or Tallahassee?

Boca Raton
Tallahassee

You'll find a number of very good museums and attractions in both Tallahassee and Boca Raton.

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around Boca Raton. While most visitors focus on the beaches and outdoor activities in the area, there are also a surprising number of museums that you can visit. On a rainy day head to the Boca Raton Museum of Art or the Schmidt Boca Raton History Museum. Sports enthusiasts will like the Sports Immortals Museum and kids will want to check out the Children's Science Explorium.

Tallahassee offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. As the capital city of Florida, you'll find a number of museums around town. Tallahassee Museum has outdoor and indoor space to explore. You can also visit the Tallahassee Automobile Museum, the Museum of Florida History, or the Florida Historic Capital Museum.


Is the Food Better in Boca Raton or Tallahassee? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Boca Raton
Tallahassee

Boca Raton is great for its local flavors and cuisine. However, Tallahassee is not a good destination for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Boca Raton has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. You'll find a mix of local and international flavors with both casual and upscale dining available. Reservations are recommended, particularly on weekend nights. For the health-conscious, there's also a nice selection of healthy eateries to choose from.

Tallahassee offers some easy restaurants to choose from. You'll find plenty of chain restaurants and cheap eateries that cater to the students. The main options are classic American restaurants with a few international restaurants mixed in as well.

Is Boca Raton or Tallahassee Better for Nightlife?

Boca Raton
Tallahassee

Boca Raton is great for its evening party scene. Also, Tallahassee is not as popular, but is still a nice city for nightlife.

Many people head to Boca Raton for the nightlife scene. You'll find plenty of upscale wine bars, cocktail bars, and live music venues that will keep you entertained late into the evening.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Tallahassee. The nightlife scene is mostly centered around the student population. There are many bars and pubs that fill up with students on weekends.

Is Boca Raton or Tallahassee Better for Resorts?

Boca Raton
Tallahassee

Boca Raton is great for its luxury resorts. However, Tallahassee is not a resort destination.

In Boca Raton, you'll find some of the region's top resorts. You'll find many luxury beachside resorts that offer all of the amenities, from access to golf course to family-friendly kids clubs.

Tallahassee is not a resort destination.


Is Boca Raton or Tallahassee Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Boca Raton
Tallahassee

Boca Raton is a coastal city with good options for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Tallahassee is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

It's fun to get in the water and check out the local marine life in Boca Raton. Head to the "Aqua Zoo", which is just to the south of Boca Inlet to see stingrays, groupers, and moray eels. Red Reef Park offers excellent snorkeling as well.

Tallahassee is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Boca Raton or Tallahassee Better for Beaches?

Boca Raton
Tallahassee

Boca Raton is an amazing coastal city to visit for the beach. However, Tallahassee is not a beach destination.

Boca Raton is considered to be a world-class beach destination. There's a two mile stretch of beautiful sandy beaches that are all monitored by lifeguards. The beaches offer all of the facilities that you might need such as picnic areas, restrooms, and showers. Many beaches are part of park land and some offer nice snorkeling. Some of the most popular beaches in the area include Spanish River Park, Bark Park Dog Beach, Red Reef Beach, and South Beach Park.

Tallahassee is not a beach destination.

Is Boca Raton or Tallahassee Better for Hiking?

Boca Raton
Tallahassee

Boca Raton is a coastal city with good options for hiking. However, Tallahassee is not a hiking destination.

Plenty of visitors go hiking around Boca Raton. There's a surprising number of nature parks in the area that have hiking trails, nature walks, and beach paths that are fun to explore.

Tallahassee is not a hiking destination.


Is the Shopping Better in Boca Raton or Tallahassee?

Boca Raton
Tallahassee

Boca Raton is great for its shopping areas. Also, Tallahassee is not as popular, but is still a nice city for shopping.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in Boca Raton. It's an upscale area, and you'll find no shortage of luxury shopping around town. Popular areas for shopping include Downtown Boca, Mizner Park, and the Town Center at Boca Raton.

Tallahassee is a great destination for shopping. There is no shortage of strip malls and shopping centers in the area. Some of the most interesting shopping is found at Railroad Square and Market Square.

Is Boca Raton or Tallahassee Better for Families?

Boca Raton
Tallahassee

Boca Raton is great for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Tallahassee 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 Boca Raton. It's an upscale area with a family-friendly atmosphere and plenty of outdoor activities to choose from. Many of the hotels have kids clubs that will keep the young ones entertained. The area also has nature centers, children's museums, and waterparks that will ensure everyone stays entertained.

Tallahassee is a family-friendly place to visit. There are plenty of outdoor parks and adventure activities for kids. You could also see the wild manatees at Wakulla Springs.

Is Boca Raton or Tallahassee Better for Couples?

Boca Raton
Tallahassee

Boca Raton is great for couples. However, Tallahassee is not a good destination for romance.

Boca Raton is a great coastal city if you're traveling as a couple. There's an upscale vibe with plenty of nature trails and nice beaches. Many of the hotels offer a touch of luxury that honeymooning couples will appreciate. You can also head to the downtown area for music, events, and museums.

Tallahassee is not the best destination for a couple to visit. Head to a restaurant or bar. You could also check out a concert or explore a garden or park in town.


Is Boca Raton or Tallahassee Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Boca Raton
Tallahassee

Tallahassee is a good destination for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Boca Raton is not a good destination for backpackers.

Plenty of backpackers visit Tallahassee. The student population creates an environment that is welcoming to backpackers. There's also a hostel in town with affordable rooms.

Boca Raton is not the best destination for backpackers and budget travelers due to its high prices. It's known for its upscale luxury, and you won't find much in the form of hostels or backpacker-friendly accommodation.

Is Boca Raton or Tallahassee Better for Students?

Boca Raton
Tallahassee

Tallahassee is great for its student-friendly activities. However, Boca Raton is not popular with students.

Many students visit Tallahassee. Both Florida State University and Florida A&M University are located here. There's a large student population with many activities and cheap restaurants that appeal to the student crowd.

Boca Raton is not popular with students.

Is Boca Raton or Tallahassee Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Boca Raton
Tallahassee

Boca Raton is a coastal city with good options for times when you don't have a car. However, Tallahassee is not a good destination for its public transit.

While Boca Raton offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. The Downtowner is a fleet of free, oversized golf cars that shuttle visitors around town, passing by many top sites such as Mizner Park, Red Reef Park, and the Gumbo Limbo Nature Center. There's also a public bus system, Palm Tran, that offers service around town.

Public transit is generally limited in Tallahassee. There is a bus system operated by StarMetro.


Is Boca Raton or Tallahassee a more walkable city?

Boca Raton
Tallahassee

Boca Raton is a coastal city with good options for its ease of walking around. However, Tallahassee is not a good destination for its walkability.

Boca Raton is a somewhat walkable coastal city. There are some communities within the city that are more walkable than others, particularly East Boca Raton, Royal Palm Place, and Mizner Park. There are also many pedestrian and bike paths around town. Even so, you really must have a car to explore the area in depth.

Tallahassee is generally not very walkable. There are a couple of walkable areas around Railroad Square, Downtown, and Midtown, but for the most part the city is not pedestrian-friendly.

For even more information, also check out Is Boca Raton Worth Visiting? and Is Tallahassee Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Tallahassee or Boca Raton?

How long in Boca Raton or Tallahassee?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Boca Raton or Tallahassee to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Boca Raton than Tallahassee because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 3-5 days is a good amount of time for Boca Raton, and 1-2 days is enough time in Tallahassee.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Boca Raton than Tallahassee 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 Boca Raton.


  • How many days in Boca Raton or Tallahassee? Ideal Length of Stay
    Boca Raton 3-5 
    Tallahassee 1-2

One day in Boca Raton or Tallahassee?

Visitors enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping when visiting the relaxed coastal city of Boca Raton. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Most people visit for the beaches. 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.

With museums and nightlife around the vibrant city of Tallahassee, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Tallahassee, one day is sufficent for most.

A weekend in Boca Raton or Tallahassee?

Visitors enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the posh destination of Boca Raton. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. This coastal city offers something for everyone. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

With nightlife and shopping around the destination of Tallahassee, there's plenty to do. It offers something for everyone. Many people spend a weekend here. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this city.


Five days in Boca Raton or Tallahassee?

Visitors enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the relaxed coastal city of Boca Raton. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. Many people spend five days here.If you enjoy all that's offered here, then five days is just the right amount of time to spend here. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

Tallahassee, a popular city, is full of activities for travelers. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

A week in Boca Raton or Tallahassee?

Many people enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting Boca Raton. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. Most people visit for the beaches. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

Tallahassee 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 Historical Tours in United States of America, The Best 10-Day Tours in United States of America, The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in United States of America, and The Best 2-Week Tours in United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Tallahassee or Boca Raton?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Boca Raton is $283, while the average daily cost in Tallahassee is $156. 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 Boca Raton and Tallahassee in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Boca Raton $171
    Tallahassee $89
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Boca Raton $342
    Tallahassee $178
Compare Hotels in Boca Raton and Tallahassee

Looking for a hotel in Boca Raton or Tallahassee? 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 Boca Raton


Hotels in Tallahassee


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: Boca Raton Hotel Prices and Tallahassee Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Boca Raton $76
    Tallahassee $33

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Boca Raton

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

  • Private Transfer from West Palm Beach to (FLL) Airport: $115
  • Private Delray Beach Transfer and Fort Lauderdale Airport: $84
  • Boca Raton Private Transfer to FLL (UP TO 14 PASS): $80
  • Boynton Beach to Miami Airport (MIA) - Departure Private Transfer: $53
  • Boca Raton to Fort Lauderdale Airport (FLL)- Departure Private Transfer: $52
  • Delray Beach to Miami Airport (MIA) - Departure Private Transfer: $49
  • Boca Raton to Miami Airport (MIA) - Departure Private Transfer: $43
  • Boynton Beach to Fort Lauderdale Airport (FLL) - Departure Private Transfer: $40
  • Delray Beach to Fort Lauderdale Airport (FLL) - Departure Private Transfer: $40

Is it cheaper to fly into Boca Raton or Tallahassee?

Prices for flights to both Tallahassee and Boca Raton 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
    Boca Raton $67
    Tallahassee $47

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Boca Raton

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

  • Delray Beach Dinner & Drinks Tour: $109

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Boca Raton $28
    Tallahassee $12

Tours and Activities in Boca Raton

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

  • Boca Raton on High Speed Train with Millionaire Home Boat Tour: $160
  • Boca Raton on High Speed Train with Millionaire Home Boat Tour: $150
  • Boca Raton-Delray Beach 1-Hour Private Jet Ski Guided Tour: $165
  • Delray Beach Food & Drinks Tour: $104

Tours and Activities in Tallahassee

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

  • Experience Tranquility with a Picnic at Pedrick Pond Park: $120
  • Luxury Picnic Experience at Pedrick Pond Park: $120
  • Tallahassee Delights: A Christmas Tour Through Art and Parks: $247
  • Tallahassee Delights: A Christmas Tour Through Art and Parks: $483
  • Tallahassee Tranquility: A Scenic Walking Tour: $192
  • Tallahassee Tranquility: A Scenic Walking Tour: $376

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Boca Raton $40
    Tallahassee $53


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

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


Which is Bigger, Boca Raton or Tallahassee?

Tallahassee has a larger population, and is about 90% larger than the population of Boca Raton. When comparing the sizes of Boca Raton and Tallahassee, 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 Boca Raton or Tallahassee?

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 Boca Raton or Tallahassee in the Summer?

Both Tallahassee and Boca Raton are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Boca Raton for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Tallahassee because of the family-friendly experiences.

Boca Raton is around the same temperature as Tallahassee in the summer. The daily temperature in Boca Raton averages around 82°F (28°C) in July, and Tallahassee fluctuates around 82°F (28°C).

It's quite sunny in Tallahassee. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Boca Raton. Boca Raton usually receives more sunshine than Tallahassee during summer. Boca Raton gets 316 hours of sunny skies, while Tallahassee receives 283 hours of full sun in the summer.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Tallahassee. It's quite rainy in Boca Raton. In July, Boca Raton usually receives less rain than Tallahassee. Boca Raton gets 6.5 inches (166 mm) of rain, while Tallahassee receives 8.9 inches (227 mm) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Boca Raton 82°F (28°C) 
    Tallahassee 82°F (28°C)

Should I visit Boca Raton or Tallahassee in the Autumn?

Both Tallahassee and Boca Raton during the autumn are popular places to visit. The autumn months attract visitors to Boca Raton because of the hiking trails and the shopping scene. Also, the shopping scene are the main draw to Tallahassee this time of year.

In the autumn, Boca Raton is a little warmer than Tallahassee. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Boca Raton in October average around 78°F (25°C), and Tallahassee averages at about 69°F (20°C).

In Tallahassee, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Boca Raton. In the autumn, Boca Raton often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Tallahassee. Boca Raton gets 275 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Tallahassee receives 256 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Boca Raton. Boca Raton usually gets more rain in October than Tallahassee. Boca Raton gets 8.7 inches (222 mm) of rain, while Tallahassee receives 2.9 inches (74 mm) of rain this time of the year. Also, the hurricane season in Boca Raton is June to November. Also, the hurricane season in Tallahassee is June to November.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Boca Raton 78°F (25°C) 
    Tallahassee 69°F (20°C)

Should I visit Boca Raton or Tallahassee in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Boca Raton and Tallahassee. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Boca Raton this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Tallahassee for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

In January, Boca Raton is generally much warmer than Tallahassee. Daily temperatures in Boca Raton average around 65°F (19°C), and Tallahassee fluctuates around 51°F (11°C).

In Boca Raton, it's very sunny this time of the year. Boca Raton usually receives more sunshine than Tallahassee during winter. Boca Raton gets 243 hours of sunny skies, while Tallahassee receives 185 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Boca Raton usually receives less rain than Tallahassee. Boca Raton gets 2.6 inches (66 mm) of rain, while Tallahassee receives 3.7 inches (95 mm) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Boca Raton 65°F (19°C) 
    Tallahassee 51°F (11°C)

Should I visit Boca Raton or Tallahassee in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Boca Raton as well as Tallahassee. Many travelers come to Boca Raton for the beaches.

Boca Raton is a little warmer than Tallahassee in the spring. The daily temperature in Boca Raton averages around 74°F (23°C) in April, and Tallahassee fluctuates around 67°F (19°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Tallahassee. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Boca Raton this time of the year. In the spring, Boca Raton often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Tallahassee. Boca Raton gets 300 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Tallahassee receives 295 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Tallahassee. Boca Raton usually gets less rain in April than Tallahassee. Boca Raton gets 3.5 inches (89 mm) of rain, while Tallahassee receives 4.1 inches (103 mm) of rain this time of the year. Keep in mind that June to November is the hurricane season in Boca Raton. Keep in mind that June to November is the hurricane season in Tallahassee.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Boca Raton 74°F (23°C) 
    Tallahassee 67°F (19°C)

Typical Weather for Tallahassee and Boca Raton

Boca Raton Tallahassee
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 65°F (19°C) 2.6 inches (66 mm) 51°F (11°C) 3.7 inches (95 mm)
Feb 66°F (19°C) 2.6 inches (66 mm) 54°F (12°C) 4.8 inches (121 mm)
Mar 70°F (21°C) 3.3 inches (84 mm) 60°F (16°C) 5.9 inches (151 mm)
Apr 74°F (23°C) 3.5 inches (89 mm) 67°F (19°C) 4.1 inches (103 mm)
May 78°F (25°C) 5.2 inches (131 mm) 74°F (23°C) 4.1 inches (103 mm)
Jun 81°F (27°C) 8.1 inches (207 mm) 80°F (27°C) 6.6 inches (168 mm)
Jul 82°F (28°C) 6.5 inches (166 mm) 82°F (28°C) 8.9 inches (227 mm)
Aug 83°F (28°C) 6.9 inches (176 mm) 82°F (28°C) 6.9 inches (175 mm)
Sep 81°F (27°C) 9.8 inches (250 mm) 78°F (26°C) 6.7 inches (169 mm)
Oct 78°F (25°C) 8.7 inches (222 mm) 69°F (20°C) 2.9 inches (74 mm)
Nov 72°F (22°C) 2.5 inches (63 mm) 60°F (16°C) 2.8 inches (71 mm)
Dec 67°F (20°C) 2.2 inches (56 mm) 54°F (12°C) 4.2 inches (107 mm)