A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Destin vs. New Orleans for Food, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Destin or New Orleans?

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 New Orleans can help you decide which place is right for you.

Destin

Destin is a family-friendly, beautiful, and relaxing beach town. Destin is a gorgeous place to visit. Other reasons to visit include food, beaches, and shopping. See Destin travel costs.

New Orleans

New Orleans is a vibrant, energetic, and fun-filled city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. This is a quaint and attractive place to visit, too. It's also known for nightlife, live music, and food. See New Orleans travel costs.

Destin and New Orleans: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Destin or New Orleans?

Tourists will generally find more to do in New Orleans. Although Destin and New Orleans are both popular with visitors, New Orleans has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. New Orleans is more popular for its food, nightlife, music, historical sights, big city activities, and quaint atmosphere, while Destin is known for its resorts, beaches, shopping, and impressive beauty. New Orleans is more touristy than Destin and is popular for its jazz festivals, local cuisine, quaint balconies, and world class Mardi Gras parties. It is also home to The French Quarter. Destin is popular for its powdery sand and turquoise water, its kid-friendly environment, and its local waterfront seafood restaurants.

The French Quarter

How is Destin different from New Orleans?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

New Orleans is terrific for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Destin is not as famous, but is still a good beach town to visit for its restaurants.

New Orleans has long been recognized as a culinary destination with great restaurants. It has rapidly grown into one of the United State's most well known foodie destinations. It's the birthplace of bananas foster and popular for it's gumbo, crawfish etouffee, jambalaya, and red beans and rice. While there are a number of celebrity chefs from New Orleans, you'll also find many local restaurants that aren't as well known but are equally worth visiting.

Destin has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. 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.

Is Destin or New Orleans Better for Nightlife?

New Orleans is terrific for nightlife. However, Destin is a mediocre beach town for nightlife and partying.

New Orleans is a must-see party destination. The nightlife scene is at its best during Mardi Gras. But year-round you'll find Bachelor and Bachelorette parties, spring breakers, and anyone who wants to enjoy a crazy time heads to New Orleans. New Orleans is a destination that attracts partiers any time of the year, and the French Quarter is the place to be if you're looking for a party.

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 New Orleans Better for Music?

New Orleans is terrific for live music. However, Destin is not a live music destination.

New Orleans is a world class music destination. The city is known for its music festivals that feature jazz, blues, and many other types of live music. The Jazz Festival is a great time to visit.

Destin is not a live music destination.

Is Destin or New Orleans Better for Resorts?

Destin is an excellent place to visit for its luxury resorts. However, New Orleans is not a resort destination.

In Destin, you'll find some of the region's top resorts. 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.

New Orleans is not a resort destination.

Is Destin or New Orleans Better for Beaches?

Destin is an excellent place to visit for its beaches. However, New Orleans is not a beach destination.

The beaches at Destin attract visitors from all over. 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.

New Orleans is not a beach destination.

Is Destin or New Orleans Better for its Old Town?

New Orleans is notable for its historic old town. However, Destin does not have a historic old town.

There is a nice variety of sights in the old town of New Orleans. The French Quarter is filled with old architecture and beautiful historic landmarks.

Destin does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Destin or New Orleans?

Destin is a beach town with good options for shopping. However, New Orleans is lacking in options for its shopping opportunities.

Plenty of visitors enjoy shopping while in Destin. 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.

If you're looking to go shopping, New Orleans has some nice offerings. New Orleans shopping is mostly centered around shopping malls and chain stores.

Is Destin or New Orleans More Beautiful?

Destin is a beach town with good options for its scenery and beauty. However, New Orleans is not a destination known for its beauty.

Destin is a gorgeous place to visit. With its powdery sand and the blue water of the Gulf of Mexico, this is a beautiful beach destination.

New Orleans is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Destin or New Orleans Better for Families?

Destin is an excellent place to visit for its kid-friendly activities. However, New Orleans is lacking in options for its family-friendly activities.

Destin is a very family-friendly destination. 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

New Orleans doesn't usually come to mind when thinking about kid-friendly destinations. While there are some family-friendly activities in New Orleans like a zoo and several great parks, the city is more known for its parties and nightlife scene. Particularly during certain seasons, most people choose to visit New Orleans without kids.

Is Destin or New Orleans Better for Couples?

Both Destin and New Orleans are good destinations to visit as a couple.

Destin is a nice destination for couples. 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.

New Orleans makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Couples who enjoy a lively evening, fun festivals, and exploring absolutely amazing restaurants will enjoy a visit to New Orleans. It has a festive and unique atmosphere any time of the year. There are also nice hotels and beautiful parks.

Is Destin or New Orleans Better for Students?

New Orleans is very good for students. However, Destin is a mediocre beach town for its student-friendly activities.

New Orleans is a good city to visit for students. Students head to New Orleans to enjoy spring break and Mardi Gras.

Destin is a decent spot for students. It is more a family-friendly destination than a spring break destination. If you're looking for a place to cut loose and blow off some steam, then there are better options in Florida.

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

New Orleans is a moderate city for its public transit. However, Destin is a mediocre beach town for times when you don't have a car.

Public transit is generally limited in New Orleans. The city has streetcar lines and bus lines that you can use, but you'll want to have a car if you want to venture outside of these main areas.

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 New Orleans a more walkable city?

New Orleans is very good for its walkability. However, Destin is a mediocre beach town for its high level of walkability.

New Orleans is somewhat walkable. If you stick to the French Quarter and downtown areas, most things are walkable in New Orleans.

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 New Orleans Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in New Orleans or Destin?

How long in Destin or New Orleans?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Destin and New Orleans. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Destin than in New Orleans. Usually, 5-7 days is a good amount of time for Destin, and 2-3 days is enough time in New Orleans.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in New Orleans 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 New Orleans.

One day in Destin or New Orleans?

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the relaxing beach town of Destin. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Many travelers enjoy the live music and food when visiting the destination of New Orleans. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Destin or New Orleans?

Visitors enjoy the shopping and food when visiting the beautiful destination of Destin. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. This beach town offers something for everyone. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

New Orleans 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 New Orleans?

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the relaxing beach town of Destin. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. Many people spend five days here.If you enjoy all that's offered here, then five days is just the right amount of time to spend here. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in New Orleans. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. 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 New Orleans?

Visitors enjoy the shopping and food when visiting the destination of Destin. Anyone can find something fun to do here. This is a popular place to visit for one week. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. In one week, you should have a good grasp of this beach town.

Travelers enjoy the live music and food when visiting the vibrant destination of New Orleans. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

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 Northern Lights Tours in Alaska.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Destin or New Orleans?

New Orleans has a larger population, and is about 40 times larger than the population of Destin. When comparing the sizes of Destin and New Orleans, 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 New Orleans?

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 Destin or New Orleans in the Summer?

Both New Orleans and Destin during the summer are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Destin for the beaches and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to New Orleans in the summer for the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

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

New Orleans gets a good bit of rain this time of year. It rains a lot this time of the year in Destin. Destin usually gets more rain in July than New Orleans. Destin gets 7.4 inches (189 mm) of rain, while New Orleans receives 5.9 inches (149 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Destin or New Orleans in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Destin and New Orleans. Many visitors come to Destin in the autumn for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area. Also, most visitors come to New Orleans for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the music scene during these months.

In the autumn, Destin is around the same temperature as New Orleans. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Destin in October average around 69°F (21°C), and New Orleans averages at about 69°F (21°C).

Destin gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In October, Destin usually receives more rain than New Orleans. Destin gets 4.2 inches (107 mm) of rain, while New Orleans receives 3 inches (77 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Destin or New Orleans in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Destin as well as New Orleans. Most visitors come to Destin for the shopping scene and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to New Orleans because of the shopping scene and the cuisine.

In January, Destin is generally around the same temperature as New Orleans. Daily temperatures in Destin average around 50°F (10°C), and New Orleans fluctuates around 51°F (11°C).

It's quite rainy in New Orleans. Destin receives a lot of rain in the winter. Destin usually gets less rain in January than New Orleans. Destin gets 4.6 inches (117 mm) of rain, while New Orleans receives 5.2 inches (131 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Destin or New Orleans in the Spring?

Both New Orleans and Destin are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The spring months attract visitors to Destin because of the beaches and the natural beauty. Also, the activities around the city are the main draw to New Orleans this time of year.

Destin is around the same temperature as New Orleans in the spring. The daily temperature in Destin averages around 68°F (20°C) in April, and New Orleans fluctuates around 68°F (20°C).

It rains a lot this time of the year in New Orleans. In April, Destin usually receives less rain than New Orleans. Destin gets 3.4 inches (87 mm) of rain, while New Orleans receives 4.5 inches (114 mm) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for New Orleans and Destin