A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Daytona Beach vs. Roanoke for Nightlife, Couples, Families, and Food

Should you visit Daytona Beach or Roanoke?

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

Should I visit Daytona Beach or Roanoke? 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.

Daytona Beach

Daytona Beach is a lively, fun, and party-hard beach city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. It's also popular because of the beaches, nightlife, and live music.

Roanoke

Roanoke is a scenic, outdoorsy, and laid back town. Other popular activities here include nightlife, hiking, and shopping.

Daytona Beach and Roanoke: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Daytona Beach or Roanoke?

Travelers will generally find more things to do in Daytona Beach than Roanoke. While Roanoke is larger than Daytona Beach, Daytona Beach has more sights and attractions for tourists. Daytona Beach is very popular for its nightlife, music, resorts, beaches, and big city activities, while Roanoke attracts visitors for its museums, hiking, and shopping. Daytona Beach is more touristy than Roanoke and is popular for its spring break culture, wild parties, and the Daytona 500 NASCAR race. It is also well known for The Daytona International Speedway. Roanoke is famous for its welcoming hospitality and convenient access to the Blue Ridge Mountains.

How is Daytona Beach different from Roanoke?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Daytona Beach or Roanoke?

Roanoke is a popular place for its sights and museums. However, Daytona Beach does not have museums and landmarks.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Roanoke. There are several museums and sights around town such as the Living-Coral Reef Aquarium, the Science Museum of Western Virginia, and the Taubman Museum of Art. There's also the Harrison Museum of African American Culture and even the Roanoke Pinball Museum.

Daytona Beach does not have museums and landmarks.

Is the Food Better in Daytona Beach or Roanoke? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Both Daytona Beach and Roanoke offer a number of reasonable restaurants to choose from.

Daytona Beach may not make the list for most foodies, but you'll find what you need while you're in town. This beach is more about the parties and drinks than it is about the food.

Roanoke offers some easy restaurants to choose from. There are burger joints, pizza restaurants, and plenty of other casual eateries where you can grab a quick meal.

Is Daytona Beach or Roanoke Better for Nightlife?

Daytona Beach is renowned for its evening party scene. Also, Roanoke is not as popular, but is still a nice town for nightlife.

Daytona Beach is a destination that you simply have to visit at least once for nightlife. Spring break is when the parties are at their peak. For the most active nightlife head to A1A from Ormond-by-the-Sea to Ponce Inlet, Main and Beach Streets, and Seabreeze Boulevard, ONE DAYTONA and International Speedway Boulevard in Daytona Beach, and Granada Boulevard in Ormond Beach.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Roanoke. There are local venues in the area that have drinks and often live music. You'll find jazz, country, rock, and bluegrass, particularly along Crooked Road in Franklin County.

Is Daytona Beach or Roanoke Better for Music?

Daytona Beach is a popular place for its music scene. However, Roanoke is not a live music destination.

The music scene in Daytona Beach is active and vibrant. You can see live music at the Hard Rock Hotel Daytona Beach, Daytona Beach Bandshell and The Roof.

Roanoke is not a live music destination.

Is Daytona Beach or Roanoke Better for Resorts?

Daytona Beach is adequate for its luxury resorts. However, Roanoke is not a resort destination.

You might not think of Daytona Beach as a resort destination, but it has a few places. Many resorts in the area focus more on affordability than luxury. The oceanfront hotels usually have nice beachfront pools and rooms with balconies and oceanfront views. You'll pay a bit more for the waterfront rooms.

Roanoke is not a resort destination.

Is Daytona Beach or Roanoke Better for Beaches?

Daytona Beach is a popular place for the beach. However, Roanoke is not a beach destination.

Daytona Beach is a good option for a beach vacation. The city's beaches are lively and festive, so if you're looking for a beach with music, drinking, and partying, then this is your place. In the surrounding areas you'll find some quieter, more family-friendly beaches. It's also best to avoid the Spring Break crowds if you're hoping for a quieter and more family-friendly vacation.

Roanoke is not a beach destination.

Is Daytona Beach or Roanoke Better for Hiking?

Roanoke is a well-known place for the nearby hiking options. However, Daytona Beach is not a hiking destination.

Roanoke is a popular spot for hiking. The surrounding countryside is filled with mountain hikes. The Blue Ridge Mountains are crossed by trails that take you to waterfalls, scenic viewpoints, and through serene forest. McAfee Knob, Sharp Top Mountain, and Roaring Run Trail some of the best hikes in the area.

Daytona Beach is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Daytona Beach or Roanoke?

Roanoke is a popular place for its shopping areas. However, Daytona Beach is not a good beach city for shopping.

Many visitors go to Roanoke to go shopping. Market Street in Downtown Roanoke is lined with local vendors, particularly at the Historic Roanoke City Market. The town also has a mall and several shopping centers.

Daytona Beach is a good destination for shopping. Souvenir shops and t-shirt shops are the main shopping you'll find in this area. The boardwalk is lined with gimmicky shops where you can pick up magnets or beach paraphernalia.

Is Daytona Beach or Roanoke Better for Families?

Roanoke is a popular place for its family-friendly activities. However, Daytona Beach is not a good beach city for its kid-friendly activities.

Roanoke is a family-friendly place to visit. The Blue Ridge Parkway is filled with kid-friendly hiking trails and fun outdoor activities. You can visit the Blue Ridge Institute & Farm Museum or Smith Mountain Lake Farm. There's also Virginia Children's Theater.

Daytona Beach is not always a place people visit with their families. Although it's best avoided during spring break, Daytona with kids can be fun when the crowds aren't too bad. There are water parks, surfing lessons, and of course the beach. The restaurants are usually family-friendly as well with many offering kid's menus and early opening hours.

Is Daytona Beach or Roanoke Better for Couples?

Roanoke is a well-known place for couples. Also, Daytona Beach is not as famous, but is still a good beach city to visit for romance.

Roanoke is a very popular place to visit for couples. Staying at a quaint bed and breakfast, tucked into the beautiful mountain setting is the perfect romantic getaway. Nearby there are vineyards and wine cellars, as well as gardens, hikes, and other outdoor activities.

Daytona Beach is a nice destination for couples. While romance isn't exactly what comes to mind when you first think of Daytona, couples who like to party and be out and about will enjoy a visit to Daytona Beach. There's plenty to do and some very great seafood restaurants in the area, so it's not hard to turn it into a couple's destination.

Is Daytona Beach or Roanoke Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Roanoke is a popular place for backpackers. However, Daytona Beach is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Roanoke. There are several campgrounds in the area as well as great hiking trails.

Daytona Beach is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

Is Daytona Beach or Roanoke Better for Students?

Daytona Beach is renowned for its student-friendly activities. However, Roanoke is not popular with students.

Many students frequent Daytona Beach. It's one of the original Spring Break destinations, and the trend continues. If you're a student looking to cut loose, you'll find plenty of likeminded vacationers in the area, with many bars and hotels catering specifically to the younger crowd.

Roanoke is not popular with students.

Is Daytona Beach or Roanoke Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Roanoke is a moderate town for its public transit. However, Daytona Beach is not a good beach city for times when you don't have a car.

Public transit is generally limited in Roanoke. There are buses as well as a free trolley service through the downtown, but you really do need a car to get most places.

Public transit is quite limited in Daytona Beach. There's limited transportation options around town so you really must have a private vehicle. If you've been out drinking, you can call a taxi or an Uber.

Is Daytona Beach or Roanoke a more walkable city?

Roanoke is a moderate town for its ease of walking around. However, Daytona Beach is not a good beach city for its walkability.

Roanoke is generally not very walkable. The downtown area is the most walkable part of town, with sidewalks and more dense development styles.

Daytona Beach is not a very walkable beach city. This area requires a car if you want to access restaurants, nightlife, or anything away from your hotel.

For even more information, also check out Is Daytona Beach Worth Visiting? and Is Roanoke Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Roanoke or Daytona Beach?

How long in Daytona Beach or Roanoke?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Daytona Beach and Roanoke. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Roanoke than in Daytona Beach. Usually, 7 days is a good amount of time for Daytona Beach, and 1-3 days is enough time in Roanoke.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Roanoke than Daytona Beach 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 Roanoke.

One day in Daytona Beach or Roanoke?

In Daytona Beach, you'll find nightlife and live music. One reason most visitors come is for the nightlife. This beach city offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

Many travelers enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the laid back destination of Roanoke. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. Your budget might influence how long you stay. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then one day is just the right amount of time to spend here.

A weekend in Daytona Beach or Roanoke?

You'll find live music and nightlife around the lively destination of Daytona Beach. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. One reason most visitors come is for the nightlife. A weekend is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Roanoke. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. A weekend is usually enough time to experience most activities.

Five days in Daytona Beach or Roanoke?

Daytona Beach is a great place to explore. 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.

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the scenic destination of Roanoke. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from. Five days 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.

A week in Daytona Beach or Roanoke?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Daytona Beach. Many people enjoy the live music and nightlife when visiting Daytona Beach. One reason most visitors come is for the nightlife. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

You'll find museums and nightlife around the town of Roanoke. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Coach Bus Tours in United States of America, The Best Adventure Tours to United States of America, The Best Train & Rail Tours in United States of America, and The Best Sightseeing Tours in United States of America.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Daytona Beach or Roanoke?

Roanoke has a larger population, and is about 41% larger than the population of Daytona Beach. When comparing the sizes of Daytona Beach and Roanoke, 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 Daytona Beach or Roanoke?

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 Daytona Beach or Roanoke in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Daytona Beach as well as Roanoke. The summer months attract visitors to Daytona Beach because of the beaches, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences. Additionally, the hiking and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Roanoke this time of year.

Daytona Beach is around the same temperature as Roanoke in the summer. The daily temperature in Daytona Beach averages around 81°F (27°C) in July, and Roanoke fluctuates around 79°F (26°C).

It's quite rainy in Roanoke. Daytona Beach receives a lot of rain in the summer. Daytona Beach usually gets more rain in July than Roanoke. Daytona Beach gets 5.4 inches (137 mm) of rain, while Roanoke receives 4.2 inches (106 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Daytona Beach or Roanoke in the Autumn?

Both Roanoke and Daytona Beach are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the music scene are the main draw to Daytona Beach this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Roanoke for the hiking trails and the shopping scene.

In the autumn, Daytona Beach is a little warmer than Roanoke. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Daytona Beach in October average around 74°F (23°C), and Roanoke averages at about 60°F (16°C).

It's quite rainy in Daytona Beach. In October, Daytona Beach usually receives more rain than Roanoke. Daytona Beach gets 4.1 inches (105 mm) of rain, while Roanoke receives 3.7 inches (94 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Daytona Beach or Roanoke in the Winter?

Both Roanoke and Daytona Beach during the winter are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Daytona Beach for the shopping scene and the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Roanoke in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Roanoke can get quite cold in the winter. In January, Daytona Beach is generally much warmer than Roanoke. Daily temperatures in Daytona Beach average around 58°F (14°C), and Roanoke fluctuates around 38°F (3°C).

Daytona Beach usually gets around the same amount of rain in January as Roanoke. Daytona Beach gets 2.8 inches (70 mm) of rain, while Roanoke receives 2.9 inches (73 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Daytona Beach or Roanoke in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Daytona Beach and Roanoke. Many visitors come to Daytona Beach in the spring for the beaches and the activities around the city.

Daytona Beach is a little warmer than Roanoke in the spring. The daily temperature in Daytona Beach averages around 69°F (21°C) in April, and Roanoke fluctuates around 59°F (15°C).

In April, Daytona Beach usually receives less rain than Roanoke. Daytona Beach gets 2.2 inches (57 mm) of rain, while Roanoke receives 3.1 inches (79 mm) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Roanoke and Daytona Beach