A Travel Price Comparison for Florida Everglades National Park vs. Orlando for Families, Food, Backpackers, and Couples

Should you visit Everglades National Park or Orlando?

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 Everglades National Park and Orlando can help you decide which place is right for you.

Everglades National Park

Everglades National Park is a pristine, adventure-filled, and unique national park. It's a gorgeous place to visit. Other reasons to visit include hiking.

Orlando

Orlando is a active, family-friendly, and entertaining city. It's also popular because of the theater, nightlife, and food.

Everglades National Park and Orlando: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Good for hiking
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for food
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less popular for shopping
  • Less family-friendly
Pros
  • Numerous theater shows
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Nice resorts
  • Fun shopping
  • Popular at Christmas
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for students
  • Home to Disney World, Universal Studios, and the city's many amusement parks
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with backpackers


Is there more to do in Everglades National Park or Orlando?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Orlando than Everglades National Park, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Orlando is better known for its theatre productions, food, nightlife, resorts, and shopping, while Everglades National Park is more popular for its museums, hiking, and impressive beauty. Orlando is more touristy than Everglades National Park and is known for being the home of Walt Disney World, Universal Orlando, and many other theme parks and family-friendly activities. Also, Orlando is famous for Disney World, Universal Studios, and the city's many amusement parks. Everglades National Park is well known for its unique habitats and wildlife such as the friendly manatees.

How is Everglades National Park different from Orlando?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Everglades National Park or Orlando?

Everglades National Park
Orlando

Everglades National Park is adequate for its historical sights. However, Orlando does not have museums and landmarks.

While most people don't head to Everglades National Park specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. It's worth checking out the Museum of the Everglades, but most visitors prefer to spend their time outdoors exploring the habitats.

Orlando does not have museums and landmarks.


Is Everglades National Park or Orlando Better for Theater?

Everglades National Park
Orlando

Orlando is very good for its shows and theatre. However, Everglades National Park is not a theatre destination.

If you have some extra time in Orlando, take in a show. The city has a number of local theaters that are fun to explore. As home to Disney World and Universal Studios, there are also a number of shows available that are affiliated with the parks.

Everglades National Park is not a theatre destination.

Is the Food Better in Everglades National Park or Orlando? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Everglades National Park
Orlando

Orlando is a great city for its local flavors and cuisine. However, Everglades National Park is not known for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Orlando has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. There are a diversity of restaurants on the Disney grounds and nearby. You'll also find many restaurants at Universal CityWalk and Disney Springs. Food can be expensive, and the quality can vary dramatically. Many people enjoy going to dinner shows as well. Restaurants can be challenging also, as reservations must be made months in advance.

Everglades National Park offers some easy restaurants to choose from. There are a few casual eateries near the park. The options include taquerias and grills. You'll also find some farm fresh fruit stands on the side of the road and it's definitely worth stopping to pick up a snack.

Is Everglades National Park or Orlando Better for Nightlife?

Everglades National Park
Orlando

Orlando is very good for its evening party scene. However, Everglades National Park is not known for nightlife.

If you're looking for night time activities Orlando has a few options to choose from. If you need a break from the kids, you'll find some of the best nightlife around Orlando at Disney Springs, Wall Street Plaza and Universal CityWalk.

People don't go to Everglades National Park for the nightlife. There are a couple of grills outside of the park, but the nightlife scene is very limited.


Is Everglades National Park or Orlando Better for Resorts?

Everglades National Park
Orlando

Orlando is an unbeatable place for its luxury resorts. However, Everglades National Park is not a resort destination.

If you're looking for a fantastic resort destination, Orlando is a perfect choice. Disney World is famous for its many iconic resorts. Some of the most popular are the Animal Kingdom Lodge, Port Orleans Resort, and the Grand Floridian Resort. There are also many resorts that aren't affiliated with the major theme parks. These tend to be more affordable, but transportation options to and from the park are limited. You'll also miss out on the perks that come with staying at a theme park resort.

Everglades National Park is not a resort destination.

Is Everglades National Park or Orlando Better for Hiking?

Everglades National Park
Orlando

Everglades National Park is great for hiking. However, Orlando is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors go to Everglades National Park for the hiking trails. The trails take you through a variety of habitats and range in length from short nature walks to longer, in depth hikes. Do be aware that the insects can be brutal. Mosquitos and biting flies are both common.

Orlando is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Everglades National Park or Orlando?

Everglades National Park
Orlando

Orlando is a great city for its shopping areas. However, Everglades National Park is not known for shopping.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in Orlando. Shopping is a dream for any Disney enthusiast. There are countless malls and shops, both on and off the Disney grounds, that sell all of the Disney paraphernalia. Disney Springs and Universal CityWalk are the most famous areas. During the evenings, these areas can be very crowded, but during the day they're less popular as most people are at the theme parks.

Everglades National Park has some shopping areas for those that seek them out. There's a park store, but otherwise the shopping is very limited.


Is Everglades National Park or Orlando Better for Christmas?

Everglades National Park
Orlando

Orlando is an unbeatable place for its Christmas holiday experiences. However, Everglades National Park does not offer Christmas activities.

People travel from all around to experience the Christmas season in Orlando. Christmas at Disney World is lots of fun. There are decorations and all kinds of seasonal activities around town.

Everglades National Park does not offer Christmas activities.

Is Everglades National Park or Orlando Better for Families?

Everglades National Park
Orlando

Orlando is an unbeatable place for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Everglades National Park is not as popular, but is still a nice national park for its family-friendly activities.

Orlando is one of the most popular family destinations. Known as a theme park capital, here you'll find the iconic Disney World, as well as Universal Studios, SeaWorld and many more. While most people spend their vacation at the Disney or Universal resorts, there is also an endless supply of less mainstream parks and activities in the area.

Everglades National Park is a family-friendly place to visit. An airboat ride is a highlight for many kids. There's also hiking, kayaking, and even Junior Ranger programs. Do be on the lookout for mosquitoes, which can be relentless in the park.

Is Everglades National Park or Orlando Better for Couples?

Everglades National Park
Orlando

Both Everglades National Park and Orlando are notable destinations to visit as a couple.

Everglades National Park is a good national park for couples to visit. Hiking and enjoying a bit of nature makes for a nice romantic getaway. Go kayaking or take an airboat ride and then enjoy some time exploring the natural setting.

Orlando is a nice destination for couples. While most people visit the area with family, there is a niche crowd that enjoys honeymooning or vacationing here as a couple. There are many beautiful restaurants and interesting activities that couples can enjoy together. This is the perfect trip for fun loving couples who don't take themselves to seriously.


Is Everglades National Park or Orlando Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Everglades National Park
Orlando

Everglades National Park is great for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Orlando is not a good destination for backpackers.

Everglades National Park is very popular with the backpacker crowd. There are two drive-in campgrounds (Long Pine Key Campground and Flamingo Campground) that you can reach from the Homestead entrance to the park.

Orlando is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. It's not exactly a backpacker destination, but there are a surprising number of cheap motels that aren't affiliated with the major parks.

Is Everglades National Park or Orlando Better for Students?

Everglades National Park
Orlando

Orlando is very good for its student-friendly activities. However, Everglades National Park is not popular with students.

It's common for students to visit Orlando. Most people don't think about education when they think about Orlando, but there are actually a diversity of internships and opportunities for students to learn in a fun setting.

Everglades National Park is not popular with students.

Is Everglades National Park or Orlando Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Everglades National Park
Orlando

Orlando is adequate for times when you don't have a car. However, Everglades National Park is not known for its public transit.

Public transit is mostly limited in Orlando. If you're staying at a Disney Property, there is excellent transportation around the complex, but otherwise, a car is essential.

Public transit is limited or non-existant in Everglades National Park. There is no real public transportation to the park so an organized tour is your best option if you don't have a vehicle.


Is Everglades National Park or Orlando a more walkable city?

Everglades National Park
Orlando

Everglades National Park is adequate for its walkability. However, Orlando is not a good destination for its high level of walkability.

Everglades National Park is generally not a very walkable national park. While there are hiking trails, to really explore the park you'll want to have a car or take an organized tour.

Orlando is not a walkable national park. The city is sprawling, so unless you stay on the Disney grounds, it's best to rent a car.

For even more information, also check out Is Everglades National Park Worth Visiting? and Is Orlando Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Orlando or Everglades National Park?

How long in Everglades National Park or Orlando?

Both Everglades National Park and Orlando have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Orlando than in Everglades National Park. Usually, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Everglades National Park, and 7 days is enough time in Orlando.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Everglades National Park than Orlando 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 Everglades National Park.


  • How many days in Everglades National Park or Orlando? Ideal Length of Stay
    Everglades National Park 2-3 
    Orlando 7

One day in Everglades National Park or Orlando?

In Everglades National Park, you'll find . Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. This national park offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

With food and shopping around the entertaining city of Orlando, there's plenty to do. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

A weekend in Everglades National Park or Orlando?

In Everglades National Park, 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 Everglades National Park has to offer.

With shopping and theater around the family-friendly destination of Orlando, there's plenty to do. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. If you have a weekend, this city makes for a great vacation.A weekend is usually enough time to experience most activities. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.


Five days in Everglades National Park or Orlando?

Everglades National Park is a great place to explore. Hikers are also drawn to this 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.

With theater and nightlife around the family-friendly city of Orlando, there's plenty to do. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Five days here is typical. It's also a relaxing resort destination. Five days is usually enough time to experience most activities.

A week in Everglades National Park or Orlando?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Everglades National Park. Many people enjoy the when visiting Everglades National Park. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

Orlando is a great place to explore. It is common to spend one week here. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. So, one week is just the right amount of time to spend here. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 2-Week Tours from Los Angeles, The Best Family-Friendly Tours to United States of America, The Best Wildlife Tours to United States of America, and The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Orlando or Everglades National Park?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Everglades National Park is $146, while the average daily cost in Orlando is $321. 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 Everglades National Park and Orlando in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Everglades National Park $80
    Orlando $154
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Everglades National Park $160
    Orlando $308
Compare Hotels in Everglades National Park and Orlando

Looking for a hotel in Everglades National Park or Orlando? 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 Everglades National Park


Hotels in Orlando


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: Orlando Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Everglades National Park $56
    Orlando $66

Typical Local Transportation Prices in Orlando

Some typical examples of transportation costs in Orlando are as follows:


  • Parking
    $14
  • Taxi Ride
    $45

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Orlando

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

  • Universal Studios Ticket with MCO Airport Transfer: $371
  • Private Transfer from Orlando (MCO) Airport to Melbourne : $279
  • Private Transfer from Four Corners to Port Canaveral: $269
  • Private Transfer from Reunion to Port Canaveral: $269
  • Private Transfer from Orlando-Sanford (SFB) Airport to The Villages: $269
  • Private Transfer from Orlando (MCO) Airport to Leesburg: $257
  • Private Transfer from Lakeland to Orlando (MCO) Airport: $257
  • Private Orlando Hotels to Orlando Airport MCO Transfer Sprinter Van up to 14 PX: $255
  • Private Orlando Airport (MCO) to Hotels Transfer by Sprinter Van up to 14 PX: $255
  • Private Transfer from Ocoee to Port Canaveral: $254
  • Private Transfers from Port Canaveral to Disney Hotels: $250
  • Private Transfer from Celebration to Port Canaveral: $247

Is it cheaper to fly into Everglades National Park or Orlando?

Prices for flights to both Orlando and Everglades National Park 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
    Everglades National Park $31
    Orlando $65

Typical Food Prices in Orlando

Here are some examples of typical meal expenses from previous travelers to Orlando:


  • Lunch for Two at Epcot
    $29

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Orlando

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

  • The Outta Control Magic Comedy Dinner Show: $38
  • Tastes of the World Food Tour in Winter Haven : $50
  • Señor Frogs Lunch / Dinner Package: $50
  • Dinner at the Hard Rock Cafe with Live Music: $58
  • Downtown Murder Mystery Walking Dinner Tour: $66
  • Polynesian Fire Luau with Dinner and Live Show: $75
  • Pirates Dinner Adventure - Top Orlando Dinner Attraction: $78
  • Food Tour of Local Orlando's Ivanhoe Village : $89

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Everglades National Park $28
    Orlando $204

Tours and Activities in Everglades National Park

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Everglades National Park.

  • 2 Hour Chokoloskee Island Kayak Tour: $80
  • 4 Hour Everglades Kayak Tour: $120
  • 6 Hour Everglades Mangroves Kayak Tour: $200
  • Everglades National Park Dolphin, Birding and Wildlife Boat Tour (2 hours): $120
  • Everglades National Park Small Group Guided Boating & Walking Tour Expedition: $200
  • Flamingo Everglades Boat Tours: $48
  • Small Group Boat, Kayak and Walking Guided Eco Tour in Everglades National Park: $200
  • Small-Group Everglades Boating Kayaking and Walking Eco Tour: $200
  • Two-Hour Everglades National Park Dolphin, Birding and Wildlife Boat Tour: $120

Typical Entertainment Prices in Orlando

For Orlando, here are some examples of average entertainment and activity prices from previous travelers:


  • Universal Studios for Two
    $110

Tours and Activities in Orlando

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Orlando.

  • 2 HR Interactive Walking Ghost Tour in Downtown Orlando: $77
  • Everglades Airboat Tour near Orlando Florida: $89
  • 2 Hour Investigative Walking Ghost Tour of Downtown Orlando: $50
  • 25 Minutes Adventure Rooms in Max Action Arena ICON Park: $12
  • 3- or 4-Park Magic Ticket at Walt Disney World Resort: $284
  • 8-Hour Automatic Polaris Slingshot SL Adventure Rental: $300
  • 8-hr. Kissimmee and St. Cloud Beach Tour on Fully Electric Trike: $74
  • Admission Ticket to Museum of Illusions Orlando: $31
  • Beer Spirits and Ghosts Walking Tour: $170
  • Central Florida Adventure Park - Authentic Dude Ranch Experience: $25
  • Central Florida Zoo & Downtown Sanford Golf Cart Experience: $130
  • Clear Canoeing and Wildlife Sightseeing at Silver Springs: $45

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Everglades National Park $7.86
    Orlando $30

Sample the Local Flavors in Orlando

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Orlando:

  • Orlando Virtual Bar Crawl & Scavenger Hunt: $12
  • Orlando Haunts Boos and Booze Haunted Pub Crawl: $35
  • Pontoon Pub Crawl, 5 Lakeside Pubs and Restaurants Visit by Boat: $85


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

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Everglades National Park Expensive? and Is Orlando Expensive?.



When is the best time to visit Everglades National Park or Orlando?

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 Everglades National Park or Orlando in the Summer?

Both Orlando and Everglades National Park are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Everglades National Park for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Orlando because of the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Everglades National Park is around the same temperature as Orlando. Typically, the summer temperatures in Everglades National Park in July average around 82°F (28°C), and Orlando averages at about 82°F (28°C).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Orlando. It's quite rainy in Everglades National Park. In July, Everglades National Park usually receives less rain than Orlando. Everglades National Park gets 5.9 inches (149 mm) of rain, while Orlando receives 8.3 inches (211 mm) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Everglades National Park 82°F (28°C) 
    Orlando 82°F (28°C)

Should I visit Everglades National Park or Orlando in the Autumn?

Both Orlando and Everglades National Park during the autumn are popular places to visit. The autumn months attract visitors to Everglades National Park because of the hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area. Furthermore, the shopping scene are the main draw to Orlando this time of year.

In October, Everglades National Park is generally around the same temperature as Orlando. Daily temperatures in Everglades National Park average around 78°F (26°C), and Orlando fluctuates around 75°F (24°C).

Orlando gets a good bit of rain this time of year. It rains a lot this time of the year in Everglades National Park. Everglades National Park usually gets more rain in October than Orlando. Everglades National Park gets 5.6 inches (143 mm) of rain, while Orlando receives 4.1 inches (103 mm) of rain this time of the year. Also, June to November in Everglades National Park is the hurricane season.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Everglades National Park 78°F (26°C) 
    Orlando 75°F (24°C)

Should I visit Everglades National Park or Orlando in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Everglades National Park and Orlando. The museums and the cuisine are the main draw to Everglades National Park this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Orlando for the Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine.

Everglades National Park is a little warmer than Orlando in the winter. The daily temperature in Everglades National Park averages around 67°F (19°C) in January, and Orlando fluctuates around 59°F (15°C).

In January, Everglades National Park usually receives around the same amount of rain as Orlando. Everglades National Park gets 2.2 inches (55 mm) of rain, while Orlando receives 2.3 inches (58 mm) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Everglades National Park 67°F (19°C) 
    Orlando 59°F (15°C)

Should I visit Everglades National Park or Orlando in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Everglades National Park as well as Orlando. Many travelers come to Everglades National Park for the natural beauty.

In the spring, Everglades National Park is around the same temperature as Orlando. Typically, the spring temperatures in Everglades National Park in April average around 74°F (24°C), and Orlando averages at about 72°F (22°C).

Everglades National Park usually gets more rain in April than Orlando. Everglades National Park gets 3.1 inches (78 mm) of rain, while Orlando receives 2.7 inches (69 mm) of rain this time of the year. Also, the hurricane season in Everglades National Park is June to November.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Everglades National Park 74°F (24°C) 
    Orlando 72°F (22°C)

Typical Weather for Orlando and Everglades National Park

Everglades National Park Orlando
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 67°F (19°C) 2.2 inches (55 mm) 59°F (15°C) 2.3 inches (58 mm)
Feb 68°F (20°C) 2.1 inches (53 mm) 62°F (16°C) 3 inches (75 mm)
Mar 71°F (22°C) 2.4 inches (61 mm) 67°F (19°C) 3.5 inches (88 mm)
Apr 74°F (24°C) 3.1 inches (78 mm) 72°F (22°C) 2.7 inches (69 mm)
May 78°F (26°C) 6.4 inches (162 mm) 77°F (25°C) 3 inches (75 mm)
Jun 81°F (27°C) 9.4 inches (238 mm) 81°F (27°C) 7.1 inches (181 mm)
Jul 82°F (28°C) 5.9 inches (149 mm) 82°F (28°C) 8.3 inches (211 mm)
Aug 83°F (28°C) 7.5 inches (191 mm) 82°F (28°C) 6.7 inches (171 mm)
Sep 82°F (28°C) 7.6 inches (194 mm) 81°F (27°C) 7.2 inches (183 mm)
Oct 78°F (26°C) 5.6 inches (143 mm) 75°F (24°C) 4.1 inches (103 mm)
Nov 73°F (23°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm) 68°F (20°C) 1.6 inches (40 mm)
Dec 69°F (21°C) 1.9 inches (48 mm) 62°F (17°C) 1.9 inches (48 mm)