A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Clearwater vs. Lancaster for Attractions, Food, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Clearwater or Lancaster?

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 Clearwater and Lancaster. 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.

Clearwater

Clearwater is a adventure-filled, relaxing, and beautiful coastal city. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food. See Clearwater travel costs.

Lancaster

Lancaster is a scenic, traditional, and picturesque town. Lancaster is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for food, shopping, and museums. See Lancaster travel costs.

Clearwater and Lancaster: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Nice resorts
  • Good scuba and snorkeling destination
  • Popular beach
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with backpackers
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Known for its beauty
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less popular with backpackers


Is there more to do in Clearwater or Lancaster?

You'll generally find more things to do in Clearwater than Lancaster. Clearwater is bigger than Lancaster, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Clearwater is better known for its nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, and beaches, while Lancaster is more popular for its shopping and impressive beauty. Clearwater is more touristy than Lancaster and is popular for its beautiful white sand beaches, laid back atmosphere, and watersports. Also, Clearwater is famous for Clearwater Beach. Lancaster is well known for its history and long running Amish community.

How is Clearwater different from Lancaster?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Clearwater or Lancaster?

Clearwater
Lancaster

Both Clearwater and Lancaster have great landmarks and museums for visitors.

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around Clearwater. Perhaps most well known is the Clearwater Marine Aquarium, but there are also a surprising number of museums nearby such as the Dalí Museum, the impressive Chihuly Glass Museum, and the Museum of Fine Arts.

Lancaster offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. Filled with history and local culture, there are many educational opportunities in the area where you can learn about Amish traditions. The Amish Village has tours and unique experiences. The town also has James Buchanan's Wheatland, the Railroad Museum of Pennsylvania, the National Toy Train Museum, the Ephrata Cloister, and the National Watch & Clock Museum, among many others.


Is the Food Better in Clearwater or Lancaster? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Clearwater
Lancaster

Foodies will find both Clearwater and Lancaster both to be great destinations.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Clearwater makes for a great culinary experience. Head to the waterfront for some of the best seafood. Unfortunately this is also where you'll find the highest prices. Shrimp, crab, and a fresh catch of the day are common on many menus.

Lancaster has a huge number of terrific restaurants. You can sample authentic Pennsylvania Dutch dishes at one of the Amish restaurants in the area. Many places serve food family-style and dishes include chicken pot pie, ham balls, and pork and sauerkraut. Whoopie pies also originated in the area.

Is Clearwater or Lancaster Better for Nightlife?

Clearwater
Lancaster

Clearwater is a nice place to visit for its evening party scene. However, Lancaster is not known for nightlife.

If you're looking for night time activities Clearwater has a few options to choose from. You'll find laid back beach clubs, glitzy wine bars, and relaxed bars where you can spend a nice night out.

Most people don't head to Lancaster specifically for the nightlife scene, but you can find a few options. It's a small town, but you'll still find local pubs and cozy bars where you can enjoy a drink in a laid back atmosphere.

Is Clearwater or Lancaster Better for Resorts?

Clearwater
Lancaster

Clearwater is a great coastal city for its luxury resorts. However, Lancaster is not a resort destination.

Clearwater is a popular resort destination that attracts visitors from everywhere. You'll find a number of nice resorts along the coastline. Some of the most popular are the Sandpearl Resort, the Opal Sands Resort, and the Clearwater Beach Marriott.

Lancaster is not a resort destination.


Is Clearwater or Lancaster Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Clearwater
Lancaster

Clearwater is a nice place to visit for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Lancaster is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Clearwater has a few areas where visitors often go scuba diving or snorkeling. There's both snorkeling and diving nearby. Some of the best dive spots are within and hour of the shore and you'll find diving shops that offer trips.

Lancaster is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Clearwater or Lancaster Better for Beaches?

Clearwater
Lancaster

Clearwater is an amazing coastal city to visit for the beach. However, Lancaster is not a beach destination.

The beaches in Clearwater are among the best in the world. Clearwater Beach is on many lists as one of the best beaches in America. It's the most popular beach in the area and it spreads out over 2.5 miles. Sand Key Beach is another popular destination as is the pristine Caladesi Island State Park.

Lancaster is not a beach destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Clearwater or Lancaster?

Clearwater
Lancaster

Lancaster is notable for shopping. Also, Clearwater is not as famous, but is still a good coastal city to visit for its shopping opportunities.

Lancaster is an extremely popular place for shoppers. Many visitors pick up hand-crafted Amish items while they're in town. Furniture and Amish quilts are particularly popular. Farmers markets and antique shopping are both unique in the area and there are also art galleries and several outlet stores that you can visit.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Clearwater. You'll find all of the standard shopping options in the area such as malls, shopping centers, and outlets. Westfield Countryside Mall is a popular destination as is the Cleveland Street District.


Is Clearwater or Lancaster More Beautiful?

Clearwater
Lancaster

Lancaster is notable for its scenery and beauty. However, Clearwater is not a destination known for its beauty.

Lancaster is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. The countryside is beautiful, with preserved farmland, covered bridges, and beautiful gardens.

Clearwater is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Clearwater or Lancaster Better for Families?

Clearwater
Lancaster

Both Clearwater and Lancaster are great family-friendly destinations.

Clearwater is a very family-friendly place to visit. Check out the playground and activities around Pier 60. Less crowded and family-friendly Sand Key Park is another favorite spot and the playgrounds at New Coachman Park and Crest Lake Park are also fun. Clearwater Marine Aquarium is another popular attraction for visitors with kids.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Lancaster is very family-friendly. In you area you'll find farms and petting zoos, amusement parks, and train rides. They can learn about a unique lifestyle at the Amish Experience or soak up the local beauty and farmland in the surrounding countryside.

Is Clearwater or Lancaster Better for Couples?

Clearwater
Lancaster

Clearwater and Lancaster both great destinations for a couple.

Clearwater is a very popular place to visit for couples. There are beautiful parks and beaches as well as romantic activities like sunset cruises and dolphin spotting tours. Couples will also enjoy dining on local seafood and shopping at the local venues.

Lancaster makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. This region is known for it's local beauty and serene farmland, making it a relaxing and peaceful destination for couples. There are walking trails, outdoor activities, buggy rides, and a variety of dining experiences. You can also stay at a bed and breakfast or local inn.


Is Clearwater or Lancaster Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Clearwater
Lancaster

Both Clearwater and Lancaster offer respectable public transit options.

Public transit is generally limited in Clearwater. The Clearwater Jolley Trolley connects some of the area's highlights. There are also public buses that run several routes through town.

Public transit is mostly limited in Lancaster. The city has buses and several transportation options, but once you're outside of the urban core, your options are limited.

Is Clearwater or Lancaster a more walkable city?

Clearwater
Lancaster

Clearwater is a nice place to visit for its ease of walking around. However, Lancaster is not known for its walkability.

Clearwater is a somewhat walkable coastal city. The waterfront and downtown areas are surprisingly walkable.

Lancaster is generally not very walkable. While the city itself has walkable areas, most visitors want to get out and explore the countryside, which requires a car.

For even more information, also check out Is Clearwater Worth Visiting? and Is Lancaster Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Lancaster or Clearwater?

How long in Clearwater or Lancaster?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Clearwater and Lancaster. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Clearwater than in Lancaster. Usually, 3-5 days is a good amount of time for Clearwater, and 2-3 days is enough time in Lancaster.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Clearwater than Lancaster 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 Clearwater.


  • How many days in Clearwater or Lancaster? Ideal Length of Stay
    Clearwater 3-5 
    Lancaster 2-3

One day in Clearwater or Lancaster?

You'll find nightlife and food around the coastal city of Clearwater. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

With museums and food around the traditional town of Lancaster, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.


A weekend in Clearwater or Lancaster?

You'll find food and scuba diving and snorkeling around the adventure-filled destination of Clearwater. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. This coastal city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

With food and shopping around the destination of Lancaster, 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 town.

Five days in Clearwater or Lancaster?

You'll find scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping around the outdoorsy coastal city of Clearwater. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this coastal city makes for a great vacation. It's also a relaxing resort destination. Most people head to the area for the beaches. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this coastal city has to offer.

Lancaster, a popular town, 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 Clearwater or Lancaster?

Clearwater is a popular choice for travelers. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. One week is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Lancaster 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 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.


Which place is cheaper, Lancaster or Clearwater?

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

  • Clearwater Prices
    USA Prices
    Lancaster Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Clearwater $309
    Lancaster $221

The average daily cost (per person) in Clearwater is $309, while the average daily cost in Lancaster is $221. 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 Clearwater and Lancaster in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Clearwater $141
    Lancaster $91
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Clearwater $282
    Lancaster $182
Compare Hotels in Clearwater and Lancaster

Looking for a hotel in Clearwater or Lancaster? 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 Clearwater


Hotels in Lancaster


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: Clearwater Hotel Prices and Lancaster Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Clearwater $221
    Lancaster $69

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Clearwater

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Clearwater:

  • St. Pete–Clearwater Airport (PIE) to St. Petersburg - Roundtrip Private Transfer: $128
  • St. Pete–Clearwater Airport (PIE) to Clearwater Beach - Arrival Private Transfer: $103
  • Private Transfer from St Petersburg Clearwater Airport to St Pete Beach: $75
  • St. Petersburg to St. Pete–Clearwater Airport (PIE) - Departure Private Transfer: $64
  • St. Pete–Clearwater Airport (PIE) to St. Petersburg - Arrival Private Transfer : $64

Is it cheaper to fly into Clearwater or Lancaster?

Prices for flights to both Lancaster and Clearwater 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
    Clearwater $46
    Lancaster $91

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Lancaster

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

  • Red Rose Walking Food Tour in Lancaster: $69
  • International Food Tour Lancaster, Pennsylvania: $75

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Clearwater -
    Lancaster $19

Tours and Activities in Clearwater

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Clearwater are as follows:

  • Safety Harbor Ghost Tour: Haunted History and Paranormal: $33
  • 1.5 Hour Tiki Tour with Open Bar in Clearwater Beach: $49
  • 2 Hour Guided Segway Tour around Clearwater Beach: $65
  • 2 Hour Sunset Cruise in Clearwater, Florida: $35
  • 2 Hours Kayak Eco Tour in Tarpon Springs: $46
  • 3 Hour Shared Shell Key Deck Boat Adventure: $90
  • 3 hour - Two Island Sandbar Tiki Adventure: $595
  • 4-Hour St. Pete Pier to Egmont Key Experience by Ferry: $67
  • 90 Minute Jet Ski Ft Desoto Sand Bar Tour: $159
  • All Day Fishing Experience from John's Pass in Madeira Beach, FL - 10 Hours: $160
  • Aqua Sol Adventures -Signature Sunset Cruise and Bridge tour: $275
  • Brief History of Tarpon Springs - Guided Golf Cart Tour: $50

Tours and Activities in Lancaster

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

  • Guided Tour of the 1792 Johannes Mueller House: $10
  • Guided Ghost Tour of Lititz: $12
  • 45-Minute Private Guided Historic Walking Tour in Lititz: $12
  • Historic Columbia, PA: Guided Tour of the Bank Museum: $14
  • Evening Ghost Tour by Candlelight: $25
  • Village Holiday Tasting Tour: $25
  • Lancaster Puzzling Adventure: $35
  • Premium Amish Country Tour including Amish Farm and House: $36
  • Lancaster County: Amish Farmlands, Museum Tour, Farm Visit: $36
  • Amish Experience SuperSaver Package: $47
  • Lancaster History and Breakfast Walking Tour: $60
  • Meal in an Amish Home Experience: $65

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Clearwater -
    Lancaster $11

Sample the Local Flavors in Clearwater

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Clearwater:

  • The Tour and Wine Tasting Experience at Aspirations Winery: $20
  • 2 Hour Hopping and Brewery Tour on a Party Bike in St. Petersburg: $36

Sample the Local Flavors in Lancaster

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Lancaster:

  • Guided Brewery Walking Tour in Lancaster City: $79
  • Lancaster City: The Ultimate Walking Craft Brewery Tour: $79


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

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


Which is Bigger, Clearwater or Lancaster?

Clearwater has a larger population, and is about 97% larger than the population of Lancaster. When comparing the sizes of Clearwater and Lancaster, 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 Clearwater or Lancaster?

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 Clearwater or Lancaster in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Clearwater as well as Lancaster. Many visitors come to Clearwater in the summer for the beaches, snorkeling, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Lancaster for the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In July, Clearwater is generally a little warmer than Lancaster. Daily temperatures in Clearwater average around 82°F (28°C), and Lancaster fluctuates around 77°F (25°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Lancaster. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Clearwater this time of the year. In the summer, Clearwater often gets less sunshine than Lancaster. Clearwater gets 265 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Lancaster receives 310 hours of full sun.

Clearwater receives a lot of rain in the summer. Clearwater usually gets more rain in July than Lancaster. Clearwater gets 8.4 inches (214 mm) of rain, while Lancaster receives 3.6 inches (91 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Clearwater 82°F (28°C) 
    Lancaster 77°F (25°C)

Should I visit Clearwater or Lancaster in the Autumn?

Both Lancaster and Clearwater are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Clearwater for the shopping scene during these months. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Lancaster because of the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area.

Clearwater is much warmer than Lancaster in the autumn. The daily temperature in Clearwater averages around 75°F (24°C) in October, and Lancaster fluctuates around 56°F (13°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Clearwater. Clearwater usually receives more sunshine than Lancaster during autumn. Clearwater gets 234 hours of sunny skies, while Lancaster receives 194 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Clearwater usually receives less rain than Lancaster. Clearwater gets 2.6 inches (65 mm) of rain, while Lancaster receives 2.9 inches (75 mm) of rain each month for the autumn. The hurricane season in Clearwater is June to November.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Clearwater 75°F (24°C) 
    Lancaster 56°F (13°C)

Should I visit Clearwater or Lancaster in the Winter?

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

It's quite cold in Lancaster in the winter. In the winter, Clearwater is much warmer than Lancaster. Typically, the winter temperatures in Clearwater in January average around 60°F (15°C), and Lancaster averages at about 30°F (-1°C).

It's quite sunny in Clearwater. In the winter, Clearwater often gets more sunshine than Lancaster. Clearwater gets 200 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Lancaster receives 153 hours of full sun.

Clearwater usually gets less rain in January than Lancaster. Clearwater gets 2.3 inches (59 mm) of rain, while Lancaster receives 2.8 inches (72 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Clearwater 60°F (15°C) 
    Lancaster 30°F (-1°C)

Should I visit Clearwater or Lancaster in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Clearwater and Lancaster. The beaches are the main draw to Clearwater this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Lancaster for the natural beauty.

In April, Clearwater is generally much warmer than Lancaster. Daily temperatures in Clearwater average around 71°F (22°C), and Lancaster fluctuates around 53°F (12°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Lancaster this time of the year. In Clearwater, it's very sunny this time of the year. Clearwater usually receives more sunshine than Lancaster during spring. Clearwater gets 299 hours of sunny skies, while Lancaster receives 237 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Clearwater usually receives less rain than Lancaster. Clearwater gets 2.1 inches (53 mm) of rain, while Lancaster receives 3.2 inches (82 mm) of rain each month for the spring. June to November is the hurricane season in Clearwater.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Clearwater 71°F (22°C) 
    Lancaster 53°F (12°C)

Typical Weather for Lancaster and Clearwater

Clearwater Lancaster
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 60°F (15°C) 2.3 inches (59 mm) 30°F (-1°C) 2.8 inches (72 mm)
Feb 61°F (16°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm) 33°F (0°C) 2.9 inches (75 mm)
Mar 67°F (19°C) 3.9 inches (99 mm) 42°F (6°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm)
Apr 71°F (22°C) 2.1 inches (53 mm) 53°F (12°C) 3.2 inches (82 mm)
May 77°F (25°C) 2.4 inches (61 mm) 63°F (17°C) 4.3 inches (108 mm)
Jun 81°F (27°C) 6.5 inches (165 mm) 72°F (22°C) 3.9 inches (98 mm)
Jul 82°F (28°C) 8.4 inches (214 mm) 77°F (25°C) 3.6 inches (91 mm)
Aug 82°F (28°C) 8 inches (203 mm) 75°F (24°C) 3.3 inches (84 mm)
Sep 81°F (27°C) 6.3 inches (161 mm) 68°F (20°C) 3.5 inches (89 mm)
Oct 75°F (24°C) 2.6 inches (65 mm) 56°F (13°C) 2.9 inches (75 mm)
Nov 68°F (20°C) 1.8 inches (45 mm) 46°F (8°C) 3.5 inches (90 mm)
Dec 62°F (17°C) 2.2 inches (56 mm) 35°F (2°C) 3.2 inches (82 mm)