A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Cumberland Island National Seashore vs. Detroit for Couples, Backpackers, and Families

Should you visit Cumberland Island National Seashore or Detroit?

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

Should I visit Cumberland Island National Seashore or Detroit? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

Cumberland Island National Seashore

Cumberland Island National Seashore is a secluded, undeveloped, and untouched island. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Visitors also love the beaches and hiking.

Detroit

Detroit is a under-rated, hardworking, and overlooked city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. Other reasons to visit include food, shopping, and museums.

Cumberland Island National Seashore and Detroit: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • Less popular for food
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less popular for shopping
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with couples
  • Less popular with backpackers


Is there more to do in Cumberland Island National Seashore or Detroit?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Detroit. Although Cumberland Island National Seashore and Detroit are popular destinations, Detroit has more sights and attractions for tourists. Detroit is very popular for its museums, food, nightlife, music, shopping, and big city activities, while Cumberland Island National Seashore attracts visitors for its beaches, hiking, and impressive beauty. Cumberland Island National Seashore is more touristy than Detroit and is known for its pristine and undeveloped beaches, miles of hiking trails, and wild horses. Detroit is famous for its Motown music, blue collar atmosphere, and influential auto industry. It is also well known for the Henry Ford Experience.

How is Cumberland Island National Seashore different from Detroit?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Detroit and Cumberland Island National Seashore. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Cumberland Island National Seashore or Detroit?

Cumberland Island National Seashore
Detroit

Detroit is a popular place for its historical sights. However, Cumberland Island National Seashore is not known for its sights and museums.

Detroit is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. Popular museums around town include the Detroit Institute of Arts, the Detroit Historical Museum, and the Michigan Science Center.

Cumberland Island National Seashore offers a few options for museum-goers. There aren't any museums on the island, but on the mainland there's a visitor center as well as the Cumberland Island National Seashore Museum.


Is the Food Better in Cumberland Island National Seashore or Detroit? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Cumberland Island National Seashore
Detroit

Detroit is a popular place for its local flavors and cuisine. However, Cumberland Island National Seashore is not known for its local cuisine and restaurants.

There are plenty of up and coming restaurants around Detroit. There's a local flavor to the food with a number of classic dishes that are popular like square pizza, Coney dogs, and corned beef egg rolls.

Most people don't head to Cumberland Island National Seashore for a culinary experience, but it does have restaurants to choose from. There are no restaurants on the island, so you need to pack any food that you might need before you arrive.

Is Cumberland Island National Seashore or Detroit Better for Nightlife?

Cumberland Island National Seashore
Detroit

Detroit is a great city for nightlife. However, Cumberland Island National Seashore is not known for nightlife and partying.

The nightlife in Detroit has something for everybody. It's long history in music still influences the nightlife scene. You'll find bars, clubs, and other activities around town. Greektown and Midtown are both popular neighborhoods during the evening.

People don't go to Cumberland Island National Seashore for the nightlife. Stargazing is amazing on the island, but you're left to your own devices when it comes to evening entertainment options.

Is Cumberland Island National Seashore or Detroit Better for Music?

Cumberland Island National Seashore
Detroit

Detroit is an amazing city to visit for live music. However, Cumberland Island National Seashore is not a live music destination.

Detroit is known as a music capital around the world. Few cities have such an influential music industry. It's home to Motown and is well known for its soul music, jazz, blues, and rap.

Cumberland Island National Seashore is not a live music destination.


Is Cumberland Island National Seashore or Detroit Better for Beaches?

Cumberland Island National Seashore
Detroit

Cumberland Island National Seashore is an unbeatable place for the beache. However, Detroit is not a beach destination.

The beaches in Cumberland Island National Seashore are among the best in the world. There are 17 miles of pristine beaches along the island. You'll also find wild horses and miles of hiking trails. Swimming is popular, but do take note that there are no lifeguards on the island.

Detroit is not a beach destination.

Is Cumberland Island National Seashore or Detroit Better for Hiking?

Cumberland Island National Seashore
Detroit

Cumberland Island National Seashore is an unbeatable place for its hiking trails. However, Detroit is not a hiking destination.

Known for its hiking, Cumberland Island National Seashore draws a crowd to experience the nature and the trails. You'll find more than 50 miles of hiking trails on the island. They pass through a number of ecosystems such as wetlands, forests, and beaches. Most visitors come for the day and spend most of their time on the Southend of the island. This is where you'll find the highest concentration of hiking trails. Some of the most popular trails are Dungeness Roadways, River Trail, and Nightingale Trail.

Detroit is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Cumberland Island National Seashore or Detroit?

Cumberland Island National Seashore
Detroit

Detroit is a popular place for shopping. However, Cumberland Island National Seashore is not known for its shopping opportunities.

Plenty of visitors enjoy shopping while in Detroit. There are several shopping streets like Woodward Avenue. There are also outlet malls, shopping centers, and Eastern Market.

Cumberland Island National Seashore has some shopping areas for those that seek them out. There aren't any shops or stores on the island so plan accordingly.


Is Cumberland Island National Seashore or Detroit Better for Families?

Cumberland Island National Seashore
Detroit

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Cumberland Island National Seashore or Detroit.

Cumberland Island National Seashore offers lots of family activities. In addition to the hiking trails, coastline, and wildlife, the island also has junior ranger programs and educational experiences for kids.

Detroit is a family-friendly place to visit. Head to the Detroit Zoo or check out one of the amusement parks in the area. Kids will enjoy a visit to Legoland and there's also the Sea Life Michigan Aquarium. You could also spend some time visiting the unique museums in the area.

Is Cumberland Island National Seashore or Detroit Better for Couples?

Cumberland Island National Seashore
Detroit

Cumberland Island National Seashore is a very popular place for its romantic activities. However, Detroit is lacking in good options for couples.

Cumberland Island National Seashore makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Couples will appreciate the pristine coastline, beautiful wildlife, and secluded hiking trails. Many people visit the island as a day trip, but it's also possible to stay at one of the island's campgrounds. For a truly romantic experience you could also stay at the Greyfield Inn.

Detroit is not always the best place to visit for a couple. It's not a city that usually brings to mind romance, but if you find yourself here for a couple of days, there's a RiverWalk area and some interesting local neighborhoods.

Is Cumberland Island National Seashore or Detroit Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Cumberland Island National Seashore
Detroit

Cumberland Island National Seashore is a very popular place for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Detroit is lacking in good options for backpackers.

Many backpackers visit Cumberland Island National Seashore. Backpackers appreciate the secluded and pristine atmosphere. There are miles of hiking trails as well as campgrounds on the island for those who want to stay overnight.

Detroit is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. There are a couple of hostels in the area, but this is still an often overlooked city.


Is Cumberland Island National Seashore or Detroit Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Cumberland Island National Seashore
Detroit

Cumberland Island National Seashore and Detroit both offer reasonable public transit to get you around.

Public transit is mostly limited in Cumberland Island National Seashore. The only way to the island is by ferry. It leaves from the town of St. Marys and advanced reservations are recommended.

Public transit is generally limited in Detroit. There's a streetcar and bus system, but the car is still king in Motor City.

Is Cumberland Island National Seashore or Detroit a more walkable city?

Cumberland Island National Seashore
Detroit

Cumberland Island National Seashore and Detroit are nice when it comes to walkability.

Cumberland Island National Seashore is somewhat walkable. There are many hikes on the island, but the whole island is 18 miles long, making it difficult to walk in one day. Many visitors spend their time near the campgrounds where there's the highest concentration of hiking trails. This area is known as Sea Camp.

Detroit is a somewhat walkable place. There are parts of downtown Detroit that are walkable, but most people need a car to get around.

For even more information, also check out Is Cumberland Island National Seashore Worth Visiting? and Is Detroit Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Detroit or Cumberland Island National Seashore?

How long in Cumberland Island National Seashore or Detroit?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Cumberland Island National Seashore and Detroit. In our opinion, Detroit has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Detroit than Cumberland Island National Seashore. However, 1-3 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Cumberland Island National Seashore than Detroit 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 Cumberland Island National Seashore.


  • How many days in Cumberland Island National Seashore or Detroit? Ideal Length of Stay
    Cumberland Island National Seashore 1-3 
    Detroit 1-3

One day in Cumberland Island National Seashore or Detroit?

In Cumberland Island National Seashore, you'll find . You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. This island offers something for everyone. This would be the perfect place to spend one day, as it has just the right amount of activities.

In Detroit, you'll find live music and food. One reason most visitors come is for the live music. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then one day is just the right amount of time to spend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.


A weekend in Cumberland Island National Seashore or Detroit?

In Cumberland Island National Seashore, you'll find . The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Cumberland Island National Seashore has to offer.

Many people visit Detroit for a weekend. Plenty of people spend a weekend in the area when traveling. A weekend is usually enough time to experience most activities. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Five days in Cumberland Island National Seashore or Detroit?

Cumberland Island National Seashore is a great place to explore. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

Detroit is a popular place to visit. The hardworking city of Detroit offers shopping and museums. One reason most visitors come is for the live music. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

A week in Cumberland Island National Seashore or Detroit?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Cumberland Island National Seashore. Many people enjoy the when visiting Cumberland Island National Seashore. 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.

Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Detroit. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. One reason most visitors come is for the live music. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.


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, Detroit or Cumberland Island National Seashore?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Cumberland Island National Seashore is $148, while the average daily cost in Detroit is $133. 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 Cumberland Island National Seashore and Detroit in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Cumberland Island National Seashore $75
    Detroit $64
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Cumberland Island National Seashore $150
    Detroit $128
Compare Hotels in Cumberland Island National Seashore and Detroit

Looking for a hotel in Cumberland Island National Seashore or Detroit? 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 Cumberland Island National Seashore


Hotels in Detroit


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: Detroit Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Cumberland Island National Seashore $59
    Detroit $37

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Detroit

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

  • Detroit Airport (DTW) to Detroit City - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $187
  • Private Transfer from Detroit City to Detroit (DTW) Airport: $142
  • Private Transfer from Detroit (DTW) Airport to Detroit City: $142
  • Departure Private Transfer: Detroit to Detroit Airport DTW in Luxury SUV: $130
  • Departure Private Transfer: Detroit to Detroit Airport DTW in Business Car: $99
  • Detroit City to Detroit Airport (DTW) - Departure Private Transfer: $94
  • Detroit Airport (DTW) to Detroit City - Arrival Private Transfer: $94
  • Private Arrival Transfer - from Detroit Airport (DTW) by SUV: $90
  • Private Departure Transfer - to Detroit Airport (DTW) by SUV: $90
  • Private Departure Transfer to Detroit Airport DTW: $61

Is it cheaper to fly into Cumberland Island National Seashore or Detroit?

Prices for flights to both Detroit and Cumberland Island National Seashore 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
    Cumberland Island National Seashore $38
    Detroit $44

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Detroit

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

  • Fresh Mediterranean Inspired Cooking Class in a Unique Detroit Home: $104

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Cumberland Island National Seashore $23
    Detroit $21

Tours and Activities in Detroit

For Detroit, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • Ann Arbor Scavenger Hunt: Ann Arbor Adventure: $12
  • Detroit Tigers Baseball Game Ticket at Comerica Park: $9.31
  • Architectural Beauty and Hidden Gems Walking Tour: $115
  • Ghosts and Spirits Haunted Walking Tour: $26
  • Scavenger Hunt Adventure Self-Guided City Game: $10
  • Segway Tour Strait to the Point: $99
  • Spirit and History Self Guided Audio Tour: $6.50
  • Experience the season with a scavenger hunt in Ann Arbor with Holly Jolly Hunt: $20
  • LEGOLAND® Discovery Center Michigan Admission Ticket: $26
  • Motor City Ghosts Tour: $33
  • Murder Mystery Detective Experience Ann Arbor, MI: $15
  • SEA LIFE Michigan Aquarium Admission Ticket: $25

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Cumberland Island National Seashore $25
    Detroit $20


When comparing the travel costs between Cumberland Island National Seashore and Detroit, we can see that Cumberland Island National Seashore 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 Cumberland Island National Seashore Expensive? and Is Detroit Expensive?.



When is the best time to visit Cumberland Island National Seashore or Detroit?

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 Cumberland Island National Seashore or Detroit in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Cumberland Island National Seashore and Detroit. Many travelers come to Cumberland Island National Seashore for the beaches, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Detroit in the summer for the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Cumberland Island National Seashore is a little warmer than Detroit. Typically, the summer temperatures in Cumberland Island National Seashore in July average around 82°F (28°C), and Detroit averages at about 74°F (24°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Detroit this time of the year. In Cumberland Island National Seashore, it's very sunny this time of the year. Cumberland Island National Seashore usually receives less sunshine than Detroit during summer. Cumberland Island National Seashore gets 286 hours of sunny skies, while Detroit receives 319 hours of full sun in the summer.

Cumberland Island National Seashore gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In July, Cumberland Island National Seashore usually receives more rain than Detroit. Cumberland Island National Seashore gets 5.4 inches (137 mm) of rain, while Detroit receives 3.4 inches (85 mm) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Cumberland Island National Seashore 82°F (28°C) 
    Detroit 74°F (24°C)

Should I visit Cumberland Island National Seashore or Detroit in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Cumberland Island National Seashore as well as Detroit. Many visitors come to Cumberland Island National Seashore in the autumn for the hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area. Also, most visitors come to Detroit for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the music scene during these months.

In October, Cumberland Island National Seashore is generally much warmer than Detroit. Daily temperatures in Cumberland Island National Seashore average around 70°F (21°C), and Detroit fluctuates around 54°F (12°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Cumberland Island National Seashore this time of the year. In the autumn, Cumberland Island National Seashore often gets more sunshine than Detroit. Cumberland Island National Seashore gets 214 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Detroit receives 172 hours of full sun.

Cumberland Island National Seashore usually gets more rain in October than Detroit. Cumberland Island National Seashore gets 2.9 inches (73 mm) of rain, while Detroit receives 2.3 inches (58 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Cumberland Island National Seashore 70°F (21°C) 
    Detroit 54°F (12°C)

Should I visit Cumberland Island National Seashore or Detroit in the Winter?

Both Detroit and Cumberland Island National Seashore are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Detroit because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

The weather in Detroit can be very cold. Cumberland Island National Seashore is much warmer than Detroit in the winter. The daily temperature in Cumberland Island National Seashore averages around 53°F (12°C) in January, and Detroit fluctuates around 25°F (-4°C).

Cumberland Island National Seashore usually receives more sunshine than Detroit during winter. Cumberland Island National Seashore gets 191 hours of sunny skies, while Detroit receives 120 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Cumberland Island National Seashore usually receives more rain than Detroit. Cumberland Island National Seashore gets 3.3 inches (83 mm) of rain, while Detroit receives 2 inches (50 mm) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Cumberland Island National Seashore 53°F (12°C) 
    Detroit 25°F (-4°C)

Should I visit Cumberland Island National Seashore or Detroit in the Spring?

Both Detroit and Cumberland Island National Seashore during the spring are popular places to visit. The spring months attract visitors to Cumberland Island National Seashore because of the beaches and the natural beauty. Furthermore, the activities around the city are the main draw to Detroit this time of year.

In the spring, Cumberland Island National Seashore is much warmer than Detroit. Typically, the spring temperatures in Cumberland Island National Seashore in April average around 68°F (20°C), and Detroit averages at about 49°F (9°C).

In Detroit, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Cumberland Island National Seashore. In the spring, Cumberland Island National Seashore often gets more sunshine than Detroit. Cumberland Island National Seashore gets 285 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Detroit receives 223 hours of full sun.

Cumberland Island National Seashore usually gets less rain in April than Detroit. Cumberland Island National Seashore gets 2.8 inches (72 mm) of rain, while Detroit receives 3.2 inches (80 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Cumberland Island National Seashore 68°F (20°C) 
    Detroit 49°F (9°C)

Typical Weather for Detroit and Cumberland Island National Seashore

Cumberland Island National Seashore Detroit
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 53°F (12°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm) 25°F (-4°C) 2 inches (50 mm)
Feb 56°F (13°C) 3.9 inches (100 mm) 27°F (-3°C) 2.1 inches (54 mm)
Mar 62°F (17°C) 3.7 inches (93 mm) 37°F (3°C) 2.8 inches (72 mm)
Apr 68°F (20°C) 2.8 inches (72 mm) 49°F (9°C) 3.2 inches (80 mm)
May 74°F (24°C) 3.7 inches (93 mm) 60°F (16°C) 3 inches (76 mm)
Jun 80°F (27°C) 5.7 inches (146 mm) 70°F (21°C) 3.8 inches (97 mm)
Jul 82°F (28°C) 5.4 inches (137 mm) 74°F (24°C) 3.4 inches (85 mm)
Aug 82°F (28°C) 7.8 inches (199 mm) 73°F (23°C) 3.4 inches (86 mm)
Sep 79°F (26°C) 7.1 inches (180 mm) 65°F (19°C) 3.4 inches (87 mm)
Oct 70°F (21°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm) 54°F (12°C) 2.3 inches (58 mm)
Nov 62°F (17°C) 2.2 inches (55 mm) 43°F (6°C) 3 inches (75 mm)
Dec 56°F (13°C) 2.7 inches (69 mm) 31°F (-1°C) 3.2 inches (82 mm)


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