A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Destin vs. Cincinnati for Families and Couples

Should you visit Destin or Cincinnati?

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

Which city is more affordable and which is best for your travel style? If you're trying to figure out where to go next, comparing the travel costs between Destin and Cincinnati can help you decide which place is right for you.

Destin

Destin is a beautiful, relaxing, and peaceful beach town. It's a beautiful place to visit, too. And you can't forget about the beaches, shopping, and food.

Cincinnati

Cincinnati is a hard-working, blue collar, and authentic city. It's also known for nightlife, shopping, and museums.

Destin and Cincinnati: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Nice resorts
  • Popular beach
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for students
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Public transit not as usable
  • Less walkable
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good public transit
  • Very walkable
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with couples


Is there more to do in Destin or Cincinnati?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Destin. Although Destin and Cincinnati are popular destinations, Destin has more sights and attractions for tourists. Destin is very popular for its food, resorts, beaches, and impressive beauty, while Cincinnati attracts visitors for its museums and nightlife. Destin is more touristy than Cincinnati and is known for its powdery sand and turquoise water, its kid-friendly environment, and its local waterfront seafood restaurants. It is also well known for Baytowne Wharf. Cincinnati is famous for its breweries and down-to-earth personality.

How is Destin different from Cincinnati?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Destin or Cincinnati?

Destin
Cincinnati

Cincinnati is notable for its sights and museums. However, Destin does not have museums and landmarks.

Many visitors head to Cincinnati specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. You'll find both traditional and quirky museums around town. For outside-the-box, check out the American Sign Museum or the Behringer-Crawford Museum. Art museums include the Cincinnati Art Museum, the Contemporary Arts Center, and the Taft Museum of Art. Other popular museums include the Cincinnati Reds Hall of Fame, the National Underground Railroad Freedom Center, and the Cincinnati Museum Center at Union Terminal.

Destin does not have museums and landmarks.


Is the Food Better in Destin or Cincinnati? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Destin
Cincinnati

Destin is a popular place for its restaurant scene. However, Cincinnati is not a culinary destination.

Visitors will find a budding food and restaurant scene in Destin. The area has great seafood including crab chowder, seafood gumbo, and fried fish. You can find wonderful local restaurants that have waterfront views and menus that feature freshly caught seafood. Many restaurants also have kid-friendly menus. During peak season, reservations are recommended.

Cincinnati is not a culinary destination.

Is Destin or Cincinnati Better for Nightlife?

Destin
Cincinnati

Cincinnati is very good for nightlife. However, Destin is a mediocre beach town for nightlife and partying.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Cincinnati. The nightlife scene is diverse and includes music venues, breweries, and nightclubs. In addition to the city's downtown, you'll find trendy places to hang out in the Over-the-Rhine neighborhood. Breweries are popular in the city, in part because of its German roots.

Destin doesn't offer many options. The region is more popular as a family-friendly beach destination than it is for it's nightlife. Head to the Harbor area for the most lively nightlife.

Is Destin or Cincinnati Better for Resorts?

Destin
Cincinnati

Destin is well known for its resorts. However, Cincinnati is not a resort destination.

Destin is known as a popular and fun resort destination. Popular options include the Sandestin Golf & Beach Resort, as well as Hilton Sandestin Beach, Golf Resort & Spa. Most of the accommodation in the area is in the form of condos that include a kitchen and separate bedrooms. Most of these complexes also have pools, hot tubs, and even kids clubs.

Cincinnati is not a resort destination.


Is Destin or Cincinnati Better for Beaches?

Destin
Cincinnati

Destin is well known for the beache. However, Cincinnati is not a beach destination.

Destin is considered a top beach destination. This area is famous for its powdery white sand, beautiful blue waters, and calm waves. The beaches are large enough that they never get incredibly crowded, but you will find the largest crowds during the summer months. These beaches are particularly popular with families and seniors.

Cincinnati is not a beach destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Destin or Cincinnati?

Destin
Cincinnati

Both Destin and Cincinnati are nice shopping destinations.

Destin is a great destination for shopping. In the shopping centers around town you'll find a number of unique boutique shops that are fun to explore. They have boutique-style beach clothes, local art, and any beach supplies that you may have forgotten.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Cincinnati. There are large shopping malls and retail outlets. You'll also find local boutiques in the Montgomery or Mariemont areas.

Is Destin or Cincinnati Better for Families?

Destin
Cincinnati

Destin is well known for its family-friendly activities. Also, Cincinnati is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

Destin is a very kid-friendly beach town. The area has beautiful sandy beaches, calm waters, and plenty of activities for kids like Big Kahuna's Water Park. This is one of the more kid-friendly areas in Florida and many families return year after year with their kids. There are also many condos available for rent and kids can have their own room, kitchens are available for meal preparation, and there are washers and dryers to clean clothes. Many of these condo complexes also have kid-friendly pools

Cincinnati offers lots of family activities. There's a surprising number of kid-friendly activities around town like the Cincinnati Zoo, the Cincinnati Museum Center, Newport Aquarium, and Smale Riverfront Park.


Is Destin or Cincinnati Better for Couples?

Destin
Cincinnati

Destin is a popular place for its romantic activities. However, Cincinnati is not particularly known for couples.

Destin makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. For a relaxing beach vacation, this is a nice option for couples. A lot of the accommodation is in the form of condos, so it may not have the romantic resort vibe you're going for though. There are many great seafood restaurants and quiet beaches that have beautiful sunsets.

Cincinnati is not always the best place to visit for a couple. If you do find yourself in town for a few days, there are several good restaurants and a number of music venues that can keep the visit fun and entertaining.

Is Destin or Cincinnati Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Destin
Cincinnati

Cincinnati is very good for backpackers. However, Destin is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

Cincinnati is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. There are actually a couple of hostels in town for backpackers or students.

Destin is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

Is Destin or Cincinnati Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Destin
Cincinnati

Cincinnati is very good for its public transit. However, Destin is a mediocre beach town for times when you don't have a car.

Cincinnati has a few public transit options. There are two bus systems around town - the METRO and TANK bus systems. There's also a streetcar that travels through the downtown.

Public transit is quite limited in Destin. There is almost no public transit so a car is essential. Some condo complexes do over golf carts to get around the grounds.


Is Destin or Cincinnati a more walkable city?

Destin
Cincinnati

Cincinnati is notable for its walkability. However, Destin is a mediocre beach town for its high level of walkability.

Cincinnati is very walkable. There are several surprisingly walkable areas, particularly downtown and the nearby neighborhoods.

Destin is not a very walkable beach town. The area is very spread out and not walkable so you'll need a car to access restaurants and most forms of entertainment.

For even more information, also check out Is Destin Worth Visiting? and Is Cincinnati Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Cincinnati or Destin?

How long in Destin or Cincinnati?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Destin or Cincinnati to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Destin than Cincinnati because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 5-7 days is a good amount of time for Destin, and 1-2 days is enough time in Cincinnati.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Cincinnati than Destin 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 Cincinnati.


  • How many days in Destin or Cincinnati? Ideal Length of Stay
    Destin 5-7 
    Cincinnati 1-2

One day in Destin or Cincinnati?

With shopping and food around the peaceful beach town of Destin, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

Many travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the destination of Cincinnati. One day is often enough time to do most activities.

A weekend in Destin or Cincinnati?

With food and shopping around the destination of Destin, 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.

Cincinnati is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.


Five days in Destin or Cincinnati?

Destin, a popular beach town, is full of activities for travelers. This is a popular place to visit for five days. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. In five days, you should have a good grasp of this beach town. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Cincinnati. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A week in Destin or Cincinnati?

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

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the hard-working destination of Cincinnati. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Walking Tours in United States of America, The Best Tours Under $1000 in United States of America, The Best Luxury Tours to United States of America, and The Best Tours for Seniors to United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Cincinnati or Destin?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Destin is $192, while the average daily cost in Cincinnati is $176. 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 Destin and Cincinnati in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Destin $111
    Cincinnati $102
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Destin $222
    Cincinnati $204
Compare Hotels in Destin and Cincinnati

Looking for a hotel in Destin or Cincinnati? 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 Destin


Hotels in Cincinnati


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: Destin Hotel Prices and Cincinnati Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Destin $50
    Cincinnati $25

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Destin

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Destin:

  • Destin, FL to Pensacola International Airport (PNS) - Departure Private Transfer: $71

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Cincinnati

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Cincinnati:

  • Cincinnati to Cincinnati Airport (CVG) - Departure Private Transfer: $35

Is it cheaper to fly into Destin or Cincinnati?

Prices for flights to both Cincinnati and Destin 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
    Destin $51
    Cincinnati $55

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Destin

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Destin.

  • 3 Hour Destin Dinner Cruise: Solaris Yacht in Miramar Beach: $128
  • 3 Hour Sunset Dinner Cruise by Solaris Yacht in Miramar Beach: $128
  • Mother's Day Sunset Dinner Cruise: SOLARIS Yacht Miramar Beach FL: $128

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Cincinnati

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Cincinnati.

  • Ohio River Cruise with Buffet Dinner: $61
  • Mainstrasse Village Food Tour in Covington KY: $79
  • Cincinnati Court Street Food Tour with Vegan Options: $85
  • Cincinnati Streetcar Food Tour With Findlay Market : $85
  • Cincinnati Walking Sightseeing Tour with Pizza and Ice-cream: $120

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Destin $17
    Cincinnati $26
Typical Entertainment Prices in Destin

Some typical examples of activities, tours, and entrance ticket prices in Destin are as follows:


  • 1 Day Rental Umbrella and Chairs
    $40

Tours and Activities in Destin

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

  • Flippers Adventures Dolphin Cruise: $25
  • Dolphin & Sunset Cruises: $32
  • Spectacular Sunset Cruise: $33
  • Destin Harbor Sunset Eco Dolphin Cruise: $35
  • Guided Sunset Cruise Up to 22 Passengers in Florida: $35
  • Kayak Adventure in Destin and Fort Walton Beach : $35
  • Chakras Sound Bath Meditation Experience in Destin: $35
  • Family Friendly Snorkeling and Dolphin Tour: $40
  • Hydrojet Dolphin Cruise in Destin FL : $40
  • Destin Harbor Fireworks Cruise: $40
  • Fort Walton Beach: Fireworks Cruise on the Emerald Coast: $40
  • Fireworks Cruise on the Emerald Coast: $40

Tours and Activities in Cincinnati

Here are a few actual costs in Cincinnati for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • Mt Adams Historic, Cincinnati, App/GPS Audio Walking Tour: $6.75
  • Self-Guided Haunted Walking Audio Tour: $6.75
  • Mount Adams Historic Smartphone Guided App GPS Audio Walking Tour: $6.75
  • Self Guided Cincinnati Ghost Haunted Walking Tour Audio Tour Music Hall OTR: $7.75
  • Queen of the West's Best - An Audio Tour: $12
  • Self Guided Walking Tour of Cincinnati: $12
  • Reds Hall of Fame and Museum Entry Ticket: $12
  • Cincinnati Reds Baseball Game Ticket at Great American Ballpark: $17
  • Tour of Historic Wesleyan Cemetery: $20
  • Smartphone-Guided Walking Tour of Downtown Cincinnati: $25
  • Ghost Walking Tour: $26
  • Smartphone-Guided Walking Tour of Downtown Cincinnati Sights & Stories: $28

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Destin $49
    Cincinnati $11

Sample the Local Flavors in Cincinnati

Also in Cincinnati, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • Cincinnati Bar Hunt: Cin-sational Cincinnati Bar Crawl: $12
  • Hidden Brewery Caverns Tour in Cincinnati with Beer Tasting: $49
  • Craft Brewery 3 Stop Hop: $64
  • Cincinnati Original Craft Brewery Small-Group Tour: $68


When comparing the travel costs between Destin and Cincinnati, we can see that Destin 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 Destin Expensive? and Is Cincinnati Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Destin or Cincinnati?

Cincinnati has a larger population, and is about 30 times larger than the population of Destin. When comparing the sizes of Destin and Cincinnati, 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 Destin or Cincinnati?

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 Destin or Cincinnati in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Destin and Cincinnati. Most visitors come to Destin for the beaches and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Furthermore, the summer months attract visitors to Cincinnati because of the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Destin is around the same temperature as Cincinnati. Typically, the summer temperatures in Destin in July average around 82°F (28°C), and Cincinnati averages at about 79°F (26°C).

Destin gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In July, Destin usually receives more rain than Cincinnati. Destin gets 7.4 inches (189 mm) of rain, while Cincinnati receives 3.5 inches (90 mm) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Destin 82°F (28°C) 
    Cincinnati 79°F (26°C)

Should I visit Destin or Cincinnati in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Destin as well as Cincinnati. The autumn months attract visitors to Destin because of the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area. Additionally, the shopping scene are the main draw to Cincinnati this time of year.

In October, Destin is generally a little warmer than Cincinnati. Daily temperatures in Destin average around 69°F (21°C), and Cincinnati fluctuates around 58°F (15°C).

Destin receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Destin usually gets more rain in October than Cincinnati. Destin gets 4.2 inches (107 mm) of rain, while Cincinnati receives 2.2 inches (56 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Destin 69°F (21°C) 
    Cincinnati 58°F (15°C)

Should I visit Destin or Cincinnati in the Winter?

Both Cincinnati and Destin are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The shopping scene and the cuisine are the main draw to Destin this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Cincinnati for the museums and the shopping scene.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Cincinnati. Destin is much warmer than Cincinnati in the winter. The daily temperature in Destin averages around 50°F (10°C) in January, and Cincinnati fluctuates around 31°F (-0°C).

It's quite rainy in Destin. In January, Destin usually receives more rain than Cincinnati. Destin gets 4.6 inches (117 mm) of rain, while Cincinnati receives 2.2 inches (57 mm) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Destin 50°F (10°C) 
    Cincinnati 31°F (-0°C)

Should I visit Destin or Cincinnati in the Spring?

Both Cincinnati and Destin during the spring are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Destin for the beaches and the natural beauty.

In the spring, Destin is a little warmer than Cincinnati. Typically, the spring temperatures in Destin in April average around 68°F (20°C), and Cincinnati averages at about 56°F (14°C).

Destin usually gets around the same amount of rain in April as Cincinnati. Destin gets 3.4 inches (87 mm) of rain, while Cincinnati receives 3.5 inches (89 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Destin 68°F (20°C) 
    Cincinnati 56°F (14°C)

Typical Weather for Cincinnati and Destin

Destin Cincinnati
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 50°F (10°C) 4.6 inches (117 mm) 31°F (-0°C) 2.2 inches (57 mm)
Feb 54°F (12°C) 5.4 inches (137 mm) 35°F (2°C) 2.5 inches (64 mm)
Mar 60°F (16°C) 5.6 inches (143 mm) 46°F (8°C) 3.9 inches (100 mm)
Apr 68°F (20°C) 3.4 inches (87 mm) 56°F (14°C) 3.5 inches (89 mm)
May 74°F (23°C) 4.2 inches (107 mm) 66°F (19°C) 3.7 inches (93 mm)
Jun 80°F (27°C) 6.4 inches (163 mm) 74°F (24°C) 3.1 inches (80 mm)
Jul 82°F (28°C) 7.4 inches (189 mm) 79°F (26°C) 3.5 inches (90 mm)
Aug 82°F (28°C) 7.4 inches (188 mm) 77°F (25°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm)
Sep 79°F (26°C) 5.3 inches (135 mm) 71°F (21°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm)
Oct 69°F (21°C) 4.2 inches (107 mm) 58°F (15°C) 2.2 inches (56 mm)
Nov 61°F (16°C) 3.5 inches (90 mm) 48°F (9°C) 2.7 inches (68 mm)
Dec 54°F (12°C) 4.3 inches (109 mm) 37°F (3°C) 2.7 inches (69 mm)