A Travel Price Comparison for Florida Clearwater vs. Orlando for Resorts, Families, Food, and Couples

Should you visit Clearwater or Orlando?

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 Orlando. 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. Other reasons to visit include beaches, shopping, and museums.

Orlando

Orlando is a family-friendly, entertaining, and active city. It's also known for nightlife, food, and shopping.

Clearwater and Orlando: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Clearwater or Orlando?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Orlando than Clearwater, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Orlando is more popular for its theatre productions, resorts, and shopping, while Clearwater is known for its museums, scuba diving & snorkeling, and beaches. Orlando is more touristy than Clearwater and is popular for being the home of Walt Disney World, Universal Orlando, and many other theme parks and family-friendly activities. It is also home to Disney World, Universal Studios, and the city's many amusement parks. Clearwater is popular for its beautiful white sand beaches, laid back atmosphere, and watersports.

How is Clearwater different from Orlando?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Clearwater is great for its historical sights. However, Orlando does not have museums and landmarks.

Clearwater offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. 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.

Orlando does not have museums and landmarks.

Is Clearwater or Orlando Better for Theater?

Orlando is a good destination for theatre. However, Clearwater is not a theatre destination.

Orlando offers a number of shows and performances. The city has a number of local theaters that are fun to explore. As home to Disney World and Universal Studios, there are also a number of shows available that are affiliated with the parks.

Clearwater is not a theatre destination.

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

Foodies will find both Clearwater and Orlando both to be superb 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.

Orlando has a huge number of terrific restaurants. There are a diversity of restaurants on the Disney grounds and nearby. You'll also find many restaurants at Universal CityWalk and Disney Springs. Food can be expensive, and the quality can vary dramatically. Many people enjoy going to dinner shows as well. Restaurants can be challenging also, as reservations must be made months in advance.

Is Clearwater or Orlando Better for Nightlife?

Evening events are good in both Clearwater and Orlando.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Clearwater. You'll find laid back beach clubs, glitzy wine bars, and relaxed bars where you can spend a nice night out.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Orlando. If you need a break from the kids, you'll find some of the best nightlife around Orlando at Disney Springs, Wall Street Plaza and Universal CityWalk.

Is Clearwater or Orlando Better for Resorts?

Orlando is a world-class destination for its resorts. Also, Clearwater is not as famous, but is still a good coastal city to visit for its luxury resorts.

Vacationers flock to Orlando for its luxury resorts. Disney World is famous for its many iconic resorts. Some of the most popular are the Animal Kingdom Lodge, Port Orleans Resort, and the Grand Floridian Resort. There are also many resorts that aren't affiliated with the major theme parks. These tend to be more affordable, but transportation options to and from the park are limited. You'll also miss out on the perks that come with staying at a theme park resort.

Clearwater is known as a popular and fun resort destination. 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.

Is Clearwater or Orlando Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Clearwater is a popular place for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Orlando is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Clearwater has a few good snorkeling spots. 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.

Orlando is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Clearwater or Orlando Better for Beaches?

Clearwater is renowned for its beaches. However, Orlando is not a beach destination.

Travelers come from around the world to visit the beaches in Clearwater. 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.

Orlando is not a beach destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Clearwater or Orlando?

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

Orlando is an extremely popular place for shoppers. Shopping is a dream for any Disney enthusiast. There are countless malls and shops, both on and off the Disney grounds, that sell all of the Disney paraphernalia. Disney Springs and Universal CityWalk are the most famous areas. During the evenings, these areas can be very crowded, but during the day they're less popular as most people are at the theme parks.

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 Orlando Better for Christmas?

Orlando is a world-class destination for its Christmas activities. However, Clearwater does not offer Christmas activities.

Orlando is a fantastic destination at Christmas. Christmas at Disney World is lots of fun. There are decorations and all kinds of seasonal activities around town.

Clearwater does not offer Christmas activities.

Is Clearwater or Orlando Better for Families?

Orlando is a world-class destination for its family-friendly activities. Also, Clearwater is not as famous, but is still a good coastal city to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

With a huge array of activities for kids, Orlando is very family-friendly. Known as a theme park capital, here you'll find the iconic Disney World, as well as Universal Studios, SeaWorld and many more. While most people spend their vacation at the Disney or Universal resorts, there is also an endless supply of less mainstream parks and activities in the area.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Clearwater is very family-friendly. 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.

Is Clearwater or Orlando Better for Couples?

Clearwater is great for romance. Also, Orlando is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its romantic activities.

Clearwater is a great coastal city if you're traveling as a couple. 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.

Orlando makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. While most people visit the area with family, there is a niche crowd that enjoys honeymooning or vacationing here as a couple. There are many beautiful restaurants and interesting activities that couples can enjoy together. This is the perfect trip for fun loving couples who don't take themselves to seriously.

Is Clearwater or Orlando Better for Students?

Orlando is a good destination for students. However, Clearwater is not popular with students.

Orlando is a good city to visit for students. Most people don't think about education when they think about Orlando, but there are actually a diversity of internships and opportunities for students to learn in a fun setting.

Clearwater is not popular with students.

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

Both Clearwater and Orlando offer decent 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 Orlando. If you're staying at a Disney Property, there is excellent transportation around the complex, but otherwise, a car is essential.

Is Clearwater or Orlando a more walkable city?

Clearwater is a popular place for its walkability. However, Orlando is not a good destination for its high level of walkability.

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

Orlando is not a walkable coastal city. The city is sprawling, so unless you stay on the Disney grounds, it's best to rent a car.

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

Should I spend more time in Orlando or Clearwater?

How long in Clearwater or Orlando?

Both Clearwater and Orlando have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Orlando than in Clearwater. Usually, 3-5 days is a good amount of time for Clearwater, and 7 days is enough time in Orlando.

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

Couples should spend more time in Clearwater than Orlando. 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 Orlando 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.

One day in Clearwater or Orlando?

In Clearwater, you'll find shopping and museums. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. One reason most visitors come is for the beaches. This coastal city offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

With theater and nightlife around the active city of Orlando, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Clearwater or Orlando?

In Clearwater, you'll find museums and nightlife. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Most people come for the beaches. One reason most visitors come is for the beaches. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

With nightlife and food around the destination of Orlando, there's plenty to do. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. It offers something for everyone. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything.

Five days in Clearwater or Orlando?

Clearwater is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Clearwater has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

Orlando, a popular city, is full of activities for travelers. This is a popular place to visit for five days. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. In five days, you should have a good grasp of this city. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

A week in Clearwater or Orlando?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Clearwater. Many people enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling when visiting Clearwater. One reason most visitors come is for the beaches. It's also a relaxing resort destination. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

Orlando is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have one week, this city makes for a great vacation. One week should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in United States of America, The Best Polar Tours & Cruises in United States of America, The Best Walking Tours in United States of America, and The Best Tours Under $1000 in United States of America.

When comparing the travel costs between Clearwater and Orlando, we can see that Orlando is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Since both cities are in North America, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

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

Which is Bigger, Clearwater or Orlando?

Orlando has a larger population, and is about 92% larger than the population of Clearwater. When comparing the sizes of Clearwater and Orlando, 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 Orlando?

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 Orlando in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Clearwater as well as Orlando. The beaches, snorkeling, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Clearwater this time of year. Additionally, many travelers come to Orlando for the family-friendly experiences.

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

It's quite rainy in Orlando. Clearwater receives a lot of rain in the summer. Clearwater usually gets around the same amount of rain in July as Orlando. Clearwater gets 8.4 inches (214 mm) of rain, while Orlando receives 8.3 inches (211 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Clearwater or Orlando in the Autumn?

Both Orlando and Clearwater are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Clearwater for the shopping scene. Also, many visitors come to Orlando in the autumn for the shopping scene.

In the autumn, Clearwater is around the same temperature as Orlando. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Clearwater in October average around 75°F (24°C), and Orlando averages at about 75°F (24°C).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Orlando. In October, Clearwater usually receives less rain than Orlando. Clearwater gets 2.6 inches (65 mm) of rain, while Orlando receives 4.1 inches (103 mm) of rain each month for the autumn. June to November in Clearwater is the hurricane season.

Should I visit Clearwater or Orlando in the Winter?

Both Orlando and Clearwater during the winter are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Clearwater in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Orlando for the Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine during these months.

In January, Clearwater is generally around the same temperature as Orlando. Daily temperatures in Clearwater average around 60°F (15°C), and Orlando fluctuates around 59°F (15°C).

Clearwater usually gets around the same amount of rain in January as Orlando. Clearwater gets 2.3 inches (59 mm) of rain, while Orlando receives 2.3 inches (58 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Clearwater or Orlando in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Clearwater and Orlando. Most visitors come to Clearwater for the beaches during these months.

Clearwater is around the same temperature as Orlando in the spring. The daily temperature in Clearwater averages around 71°F (22°C) in April, and Orlando fluctuates around 72°F (22°C).

In April, Clearwater usually receives less rain than Orlando. Clearwater gets 2.1 inches (53 mm) of rain, while Orlando receives 2.7 inches (69 mm) of rain each month for the spring. The hurricane season in Clearwater is June to November.

Typical Weather for Orlando and Clearwater