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

Should you visit Destin or Seattle?

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 Seattle can help you decide which place is right for you.

Destin

Destin is a peaceful, family-friendly, and beautiful beach town. It offers plenty of beauty for visitors. Other popular activities here include shopping, food, and beaches.

Seattle

Seattle is a outdoorsy, laid-back, and bustling city. It's a large city with plenty of activites for visitors as well. It's a gorgeous place to visit. It's also known for hiking, shopping, and museums.

Destin and Seattle: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Destin or Seattle?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Seattle than Destin, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Seattle is better known for its museums, theatre productions, food, nightlife, music, hiking, and big city activities, while Destin is more popular for its resorts and beaches. Destin is well known for its powdery sand and turquoise water, its kid-friendly environment, and its local waterfront seafood restaurants. Seattle is well known for its beautiful waterfront setting, diverse culinary scene, thriving art and cultural venues, and being the home of many international tech companies. Also, Seattle is famous for The Space Needle.

How is Destin different from Seattle?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Many visitors head to Seattle specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. The city's most iconic landmark is the Space Needle. There's also a zoo, aquarium, and a handful of nice museums. Several favorites include the Chihuly Garden and Glass, the Museum of History & Industry, and the Seattle Art Museum.

Destin does not have museums and landmarks.

Is Destin or Seattle Better for Theater?

Seattle is very good for theatre. However, Destin is not a theatre destination.

Seattle offers a number of shows and performances. There are a handful of theaters where you can enjoy traveling Broadway shows or smaller productions.

Destin is not a theatre destination.

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

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

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Seattle makes for a great culinary experience. The city has many diverse dining options that make it a popular foodie destination. The seafood is world-class with many restaurants offering fresh caught salmon and oysters. There are also many great Asian restaurants with Pho, sushi, and dim sum all being popular around town. Seattle is also famous as the birthplace of Starbucks coffee, and both chain and independent coffee shops are common. Finally, make sure you check out the donuts at Pike's Place Market.

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 Seattle Better for Nightlife?

Seattle is notable for nightlife. However, Destin is a mediocre beach town for nightlife and partying.

Seattle has plenty to do after the sun goes down. The city is known for its breweries and eclectic nightlife scene. There is a thriving theater scene as well as many bars and trendy restaurants. The best neighborhoods for nightlife include Capitol Hill, Belltown, and Downtown.

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 Seattle Better for Music?

Seattle is notable for live music. However, Destin is not a live music destination.

If you love music, you'll find something to enjoy in Seattle. The city has developed its own music culture around several genres including alternative rock and grunge.

Destin is not a live music destination.

Is Destin or Seattle Better for Resorts?

Destin is notable for its resorts. However, Seattle is not a resort destination.

Destin is a popular resort destination that attracts visitors from everywhere. 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.

Seattle is not a resort destination.

Is Destin or Seattle Better for Beaches?

Destin is notable for the beach. Also, Seattle is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its beaches.

You'll have a great beach vacation in Destin. 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.

Plenty of visitors enjoy relaxing on the beach in Seattle. The city is surrounded by water so there are a number of rocky and sandy beaches nearby. Some beaches are more popular with locals while others attract a large amount of tourists. Alki Beach Park, Discovery Park, and Golden Gardens Park are among the best.

Is Destin or Seattle Better for Hiking?

Seattle is notable for the nearby hiking options. However, Destin is not a hiking destination.

Seattle is a popular spot for hiking. It's famously an outdoorsy city and the hiking will not disappoint. Within a half hour drive of town you'll find beautiful forests and stunning natural beauty. Head into the Cascades, to the coastal rainforests, or around Mount Rainier for all kinds of diverse landscapes. Seattle is well situated for you to experience hiking through the diverse Pacific Northwest landscapes.

Destin is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Destin or Seattle?

Both Destin and Seattle are notable 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 Seattle. Shopping in town has an eclectic mix of high end brands, local vendors, and vintage shops. There are farmers markets as well as the famous Pike Place Market, but also major malls with all of the standard department stores.

Is Destin or Seattle Better for Families?

Destin is notable for its family-friendly activities. Also, Seattle is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

Destin is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. 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

Seattle is a family-friendly beach town. This is an outdoor city with plenty of places where kids can run around and experience nature. There are several good museums as well as outdoor activities, parks, and a zoo. Make sure you check out the Burke Museum of Natural History and Culture, Volunteer Park, and Artists at Play Playground.

Is Destin or Seattle Better for Couples?

Both Destin and Seattle are notable 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.

Seattle makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. The city has a laid back vibe, a nice downtown area, and plenty of outdoor activities. There are a diversity of restaurants to enjoy and a great nightlife scene that makes for a good couple's getaway.

Is Destin or Seattle Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

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

Seattle is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. Although it's not the most popular city for backpackers in America, the city's chill vibe, fun breweries, and lively setting make it a great spot for young backpackers.

Destin is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

Is Destin or Seattle Better for Students?

Seattle is notable for students. However, Destin is a mediocre beach town for its student-friendly activities.

Seattle is very popular with students. It is a major IT center with a large university, so international students will have plenty of opportunities here. It's also a vibrant city with many outdoor recreational opportunities and a fun nightlife scene.

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 Seattle Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

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

Seattle has a few public transit options. There is a light rail system, a monorail, a street car, and buses.

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 Seattle a more walkable city?

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

Seattle is very walkable. Many neighborhoods are very walkable, particularly in the downtown and major tourist areas.

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 Seattle Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Seattle or Destin?

How long in Destin or Seattle?

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Seattle 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 Seattle.

One day in Destin or Seattle?

In Destin, you'll find food and shopping. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. This beach town offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

Seattle is a bustling city that offers something for everyone. Hikers are also drawn to this area. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Destin or Seattle?

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

Seattle 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 Seattle?

Destin 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 Destin has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Seattle. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. 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 Seattle?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Destin. In Destin, you'll find shopping and food. It's also a relaxing resort destination. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one week here.

Travelers enjoy the museums and theater when visiting the outdoorsy big city of Seattle. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking 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 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.

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

Which is Bigger, Destin or Seattle?

Seattle has a larger population, and is about 50 times larger than the population of Destin. When comparing the sizes of Destin and Seattle, 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 Seattle?

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 Seattle in the Summer?

Both Seattle and Destin are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The beaches and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Destin this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Seattle for the beaches, the hiking, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Destin is generally a little warmer than Seattle. Daily temperatures in Destin average around 82°F (28°C), and Seattle fluctuates around 67°F (19°C).

It's quite rainy in Destin. In July, Destin usually receives more rain than Seattle. Destin gets 7.4 inches (189 mm) of rain, while Seattle receives 0.9 inches (22 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Destin or Seattle in the Autumn?

Both Seattle and Destin during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Destin for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area. Also, many visitors come to Seattle in the autumn for the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

Destin is much warmer than Seattle in the autumn. The daily temperature in Destin averages around 69°F (21°C) in October, and Seattle fluctuates around 54°F (12°C).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Destin. Destin usually gets more rain in October than Seattle. Destin gets 4.2 inches (107 mm) of rain, while Seattle receives 3.3 inches (83 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Destin or Seattle in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Destin and Seattle. Many visitors come to Destin in the winter for the shopping scene and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Seattle for the museums, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine during these months.

In the winter, Destin is much warmer than Seattle. Typically, the winter temperatures in Destin in January average around 50°F (10°C), and Seattle averages at about 42°F (5°C).

Seattle receives a lot of rain in the winter. Destin gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In January, Destin usually receives less rain than Seattle. Destin gets 4.6 inches (117 mm) of rain, while Seattle receives 5.4 inches (136 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Destin or Seattle in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Destin as well as Seattle. Most visitors come to Destin for the beaches and the natural beauty during these months. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Seattle because of the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty.

In April, Destin is generally much warmer than Seattle. Daily temperatures in Destin average around 68°F (20°C), and Seattle fluctuates around 51°F (11°C).

Destin usually gets more rain in April than Seattle. Destin gets 3.4 inches (87 mm) of rain, while Seattle receives 2.5 inches (64 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Seattle and Destin