A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Fort Lauderdale vs. Bangor for Couples, Nightlife, Families, and Food

Should you visit Fort Lauderdale or Bangor?

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

Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for Fort Lauderdale and Bangor. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.

Fort Lauderdale

Fort Lauderdale is a luxury, high energy, and scenic coastal city. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. Other popular activities here include nightlife, food, and scuba diving and snorkeling.

Bangor

Bangor is a laid back, welcoming, and friendly town. Don't miss this spot, as it's a charming small town with plenty of activities. It's also known for food, shopping, and museums.

Fort Lauderdale and Bangor: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Active nightlife
  • Nice resorts
  • Good scuba and snorkeling destination
  • Popular beach
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to the Local Beaches
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less popular with couples


Is there more to do in Fort Lauderdale or Bangor?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Fort Lauderdale than Bangor, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Fort Lauderdale is better known for its nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and impressive beauty, while Bangor is more popular for its museums and small town charm. Fort Lauderdale is more touristy than Bangor and is known for its canals, beaches, walkable waterfront, and luxury resorts. Also, Fort Lauderdale is famous for The Local Beaches. Bangor is well known for its history as a lumber town.

How is Fort Lauderdale different from Bangor?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Fort Lauderdale or Bangor?

Fort Lauderdale
Bangor

Bangor is a good destination for its museums and landmarks. However, Fort Lauderdale does not have museums and landmarks.

Bangor is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. There are a couple of museums around town that focus on culture and daily life in Maine.

Fort Lauderdale does not have museums and landmarks.


Is the Food Better in Fort Lauderdale or Bangor? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Fort Lauderdale
Bangor

Both Fort Lauderdale and Bangor offer a number of notable restaurants to choose from.

Fort Lauderdale offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. Seafood is the obvious option with popular dishes being fish tacos, sea bass, and scallop risotto. There are many waterfront restaurants or you could head to Las Olas Boulevard, which has many bistros, cafes, and restaurants.

Bangor has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. For a small town, there are a range of dining options in the area such as seafood, international cuisine, and quick eats.

Is Fort Lauderdale or Bangor Better for Nightlife?

Fort Lauderdale
Bangor

Fort Lauderdale is a well-known place for its evening party scene. However, Bangor is not a good town for nightlife.

Fort Lauderdale offers plenty to do in the evening. Trendy and upscale partying is the name of the game in this Florida city. Most people head to the beach, Las Olas Blvd, River Front and The New Hard Rock Seminole Hotel Complex for the best bars and clubs. You'll find the most activity around the weekends, but there really is something going on any night of the week.

Those looking for nightlife will find a few places to hang out in Bangor. There are breweries and bars with laid back vibes and a casual atmosphere.

Is Fort Lauderdale or Bangor Better for Resorts?

Fort Lauderdale
Bangor

Fort Lauderdale is an amazing coastal city to visit for its resorts. However, Bangor is not a resort destination.

Fort Lauderdale is a world class resort vacation destination. Luxury beachfront resorts are plentiful in the area. Several of the most impressive include the Ritz-Carlton, W Fort Lauderdale, and the Dalmar. Most resorts have a beachfront pool, hot tubs, and depending on the resort, a kid's club.

Bangor is not a resort destination.


Is Fort Lauderdale or Bangor Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Fort Lauderdale
Bangor

Fort Lauderdale is a coastal city with good options for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Bangor is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

It's fun to get in the water and check out the local marine life in Fort Lauderdale. Although the snorkeling doesn't compare to what you'll find further south around the Florida Keys, there are some great places to pull your mask and fins out in the area. Popular snorkeling spots nearby include the Vista Park Reef, Pompano Beach, and Hollywood North Beach Park.

Bangor is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Fort Lauderdale or Bangor Better for Beaches?

Fort Lauderdale
Bangor

Fort Lauderdale is an amazing coastal city to visit for the beach. However, Bangor is not a beach destination.

Fort Lauderdale is considered to be a world-class beach destination. With seven miles of beautiful sandy beaches, a fun boardwalk, and impressive views, the beaches here are among the best in the area. They are surprisingly walkable and, while there can be crowds, there's still a laid-back and relaxing atmosphere.

Bangor is not a beach destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Fort Lauderdale or Bangor?

Fort Lauderdale
Bangor

Shopping is a popular activity in both Bangor and Fort Lauderdale.

Fort Lauderdale is a great destination for shopping. For interesting local boutiques head to Las Olas Boulevard and for name brand stores you'll want to visit Sawgrass Mills Mall.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Bangor. Head downtown for the widest selection of locally own shops and boutiques.


Is Fort Lauderdale or Bangor Better for Families?

Fort Lauderdale
Bangor

Fort Lauderdale is a well-known place for its family-friendly activities. Also, Bangor is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

Fort Lauderdale is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. With seven miles of beautiful sandy beaches and a number of kid-oriented activities, the kids will love it here. Fun activities include Bluefoot Pirate Adventures, Butterfly World, and Funderdome. On sunny days there are many outdoor recreation areas and when the weather isn't cooperating, there are hands-on museums.

Bangor is a family-friendly coastal city. You'll find a number of parks and walking trails nearby. There's also fruit picking and playgrounds to explore.

Is Fort Lauderdale or Bangor Better for Couples?

Fort Lauderdale
Bangor

Fort Lauderdale is an amazing coastal city to visit for couples. However, Bangor is not a good town for romance.

Fort Lauderdale is a great coastal city for couples, as it has plenty to offer. Fine dining, beautiful beaches, and great shopping make for a great romantic getaway. Couples and honeymooners love relaxing at the beaches in Fort Lauderdale. A sunset walk on the beach and a stay at a romantic resort will make for an unforgettable trip.

Bangor is not the best destination for a couple to visit. There are local restaurants and several museums in town that couples will enjoy.

Is Fort Lauderdale or Bangor Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Fort Lauderdale
Bangor

You'll find somewhat comparable public transit options in both Fort Lauderdale and Bangor.

Public transit is generally limited in Fort Lauderdale. Transportation options include a water taxi and the Sun Trolley Hop-on Bus.

Public transit is mostly limited in Bangor. There's a bus system, but visitors usually use their own car to get around.


Is Fort Lauderdale or Bangor a more walkable city?

Fort Lauderdale
Bangor

Fort Lauderdale is a well-known place for its ease of walking around. Also, Bangor is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its walkability.

Fort Lauderdale is a very walkable destination. It is one of the most walkable Florida communities with a boardwalk and several pedestrian areas that are fun to wander around.

Bangor is somewhat walkable. The downtown is compact and easy to explore on foot.

For even more information, also check out Is Fort Lauderdale Worth Visiting? and Is Bangor Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Bangor or Fort Lauderdale?

How long in Fort Lauderdale or Bangor?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Fort Lauderdale or Bangor to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Fort Lauderdale than Bangor because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Fort Lauderdale, and 1-2 days is enough time in Bangor.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Bangor than Fort Lauderdale 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 Bangor.


  • How many days in Fort Lauderdale or Bangor? Ideal Length of Stay
    Fort Lauderdale 3-7 
    Bangor 1-2

One day in Fort Lauderdale or Bangor?

Many travelers enjoy the shopping and nightlife when visiting the destination of Fort Lauderdale. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

The welcoming destination of Bangor offers shopping and museums. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One day is usually enough time to experience most activities.

A weekend in Fort Lauderdale or Bangor?

Fort Lauderdale is a great place to explore. Don't miss the beaches, as that's what most people do. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

The town of Bangor offers museums and food. A weekend here is typical. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything. A weekend is often enough time to do most activities.


Five days in Fort Lauderdale or Bangor?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Fort Lauderdale. Don't miss the beaches, as that's what most people do. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. Most people come for the beaches. With all of its activities, you can easily fill five days here. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Bangor is a great place to explore. This town offers something for everyone. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

A week in Fort Lauderdale or Bangor?

Many travelers enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping when visiting the spirited destination of Fort Lauderdale. This coastal city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. If you have one week, this is a great place to go. This would be the perfect place to spend one week, as it has just the right amount of activities.

Many people enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting Bangor. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.


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.


Which place is cheaper, Bangor or Fort Lauderdale?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Fort Lauderdale is $182, while the average daily cost in Bangor is $197. 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 Fort Lauderdale and Bangor in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Fort Lauderdale $96
    Bangor $114
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Fort Lauderdale $192
    Bangor $228
Compare Hotels in Fort Lauderdale and Bangor

Looking for a hotel in Fort Lauderdale or Bangor? 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 Fort Lauderdale


Hotels in Bangor


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: Fort Lauderdale Hotel Prices and Bangor Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Fort Lauderdale $51
    Bangor $36

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Fort Lauderdale

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Fort Lauderdale:

  • Fort Lauderdale Airport (FLL) to Delray Beach - Arrival Private Transfer: $37
  • Transfer Private Vehicle from Fort Lauderdale Airport (FLL) -City: $40
  • Port Everglades to Fort Lauderdale Airport FLL-Departure Transfer: $40
  • Port Everglades to Fort Lauderdale Airport (FLL) - Departure Private Transfer : $40
  • Fort Lauderdale Airport (FLL) to Port Everglades-Arrival Transfer: $40
  • Fort Lauderdale to Fort Lauderdale Airport (FLL) - Departure Private Transfer: $40
  • Fort Lauderdale to Miami Airport (MIA) - Departure Private Transfer: $46
  • Fort Lauderdale Airport (FLL) to Doral hotel/address - Arrival Private Transfer: $50
  • Fort Lauderdale Airport (FLL) to Boca Raton - Arrival Private Transfer: $52
  • Port Everglades Private Transfer from Weston: $58
  • Miami Airport and Seaport Private Transfer (up to 14 passengers): $60
  • Fort Lauderdale Airport Private Transfer (Up To 14 Passengers): $60

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Bangor

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Bangor:

  • Private Transfer from Bangor Airport(BGR) to Rockland Cruise Port: $69
  • Private Transfer from Bangor city hotels to Rockland Cruise Port: $69

Is it cheaper to fly into Fort Lauderdale or Bangor?

Prices for flights to both Bangor and Fort Lauderdale 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
    Fort Lauderdale $49
    Bangor $54
Typical Food Prices in Fort Lauderdale

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for food and meal costs in Fort Lauderdale:


  • Quick Lunch
    $12

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Fort Lauderdale

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

  • Food Tour in Lauderdale By The Sea: $60
  • Hollywood Florida Walking Food Tour : $99
  • Downtown Fort Lauderdale Dinner & Drinks Tour: $109
  • Downtown Fort Lauderdale Dinner and Drinks Tour: $114
  • Fort Lauderdale Beach Food Tour: $114

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Fort Lauderdale $15
    Bangor $45

Tours and Activities in Fort Lauderdale

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

  • Audio Walking Tour of Las Olas Riverwalk: $7.31
  • Fort Lauderdale Riverwalk Self-guided Audio Walking Tour: $7.99
  • Unique Scavenger Hunt Experience in Davie by Crazy Dash: $10
  • Scavenger Hunt Adventure in Pompano Beach by Operation City Quest: $10
  • Scavenger Hunt Adventure in Pompano Beach by Zombie Scavengers: $20
  • Skip the Line: Flamingo Gardens Admission Ticket in Fort Lauderdale: $24
  • 1-Hour Interactive Pirate Cruise in Ft. Lauderdale (arrive 30 minutes early): $25
  • Ghosts and Ghouls Haunted Walking Tour: $26
  • Florida Everglades Airboat Adventure and Wildlife Encounter: $29
  • Jungle Queen Riverboat 90-Minute Narrated Sightseeing Cruise in Fort Lauderdale: $31
  • Carrie B Cruises! Beautiful and Fun THE VENICE OF AMERICA TOUR!!!: $32
  • Millionaire's Homes and Megayachts Cruise: $36

Typical Entertainment Prices in Bangor

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


  • Children's Museum (for 4)
    $32

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Fort Lauderdale $33
    Bangor $23
Typical Alcohol Prices in Fort Lauderdale

Some typical examples of the costs for nightlife and alcohol in Fort Lauderdale are as follows:


  • Beer
    $7.30

Sample the Local Flavors in Fort Lauderdale

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Fort Lauderdale:

  • Guided Happy Hour Bar Crawl by Beer Bike: $64
  • Pedibus Pub Crawl in Fort Lauderdale: $74
  • Party Bike Bar Crawl: $74


When comparing the travel costs between Fort Lauderdale and Bangor, we can see that Bangor 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 Fort Lauderdale Expensive? and Is Bangor Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Fort Lauderdale or Bangor?

Fort Lauderdale has a larger population, and is about 5 times larger than the population of Bangor. When comparing the sizes of Fort Lauderdale and Bangor, 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 Fort Lauderdale or Bangor?

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 Fort Lauderdale or Bangor in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Fort Lauderdale and Bangor. Most visitors come to Fort Lauderdale for the beaches, snorkeling, and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Bangor because of the small town charm and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Fort Lauderdale is generally a little warmer than Bangor. Daily temperatures in Fort Lauderdale average around 83°F (28°C), and Bangor fluctuates around 69°F (21°C).

Fort Lauderdale gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In July, Fort Lauderdale usually receives more rain than Bangor. Fort Lauderdale gets 5.9 inches (149 mm) of rain, while Bangor receives 3.3 inches (84 mm) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Fort Lauderdale 83°F (28°C) 
    Bangor 69°F (21°C)

Should I visit Fort Lauderdale or Bangor in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Fort Lauderdale as well as Bangor. The autumn months attract visitors to Fort Lauderdale because of the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area. Also, the shopping scene and the small town atmosphere are the main draw to Bangor this time of year.

Fort Lauderdale is much warmer than Bangor in the autumn. The daily temperature in Fort Lauderdale averages around 78°F (26°C) in October, and Bangor fluctuates around 48°F (9°C).

Fort Lauderdale receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Fort Lauderdale usually gets more rain in October than Bangor. Fort Lauderdale gets 5.6 inches (143 mm) of rain, while Bangor receives 3.4 inches (87 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Fort Lauderdale 78°F (26°C) 
    Bangor 48°F (9°C)

Should I visit Fort Lauderdale or Bangor in the Winter?

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

Be prepared for some very cold days in Bangor. In the winter, Fort Lauderdale is much warmer than Bangor. Typically, the winter temperatures in Fort Lauderdale in January average around 67°F (20°C), and Bangor averages at about 18°F (-8°C).

In January, Fort Lauderdale usually receives less rain than Bangor. Fort Lauderdale gets 2.2 inches (55 mm) of rain, while Bangor receives 3 inches (77 mm) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Fort Lauderdale 67°F (20°C) 
    Bangor 18°F (-8°C)

Should I visit Fort Lauderdale or Bangor in the Spring?

Both Bangor and Fort Lauderdale during the spring are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Fort Lauderdale for the beaches and the natural beauty. Furthermore, many visitors come to Bangor in the spring for the small town charm.

In April, Fort Lauderdale is generally much warmer than Bangor. Daily temperatures in Fort Lauderdale average around 75°F (24°C), and Bangor fluctuates around 43°F (6°C).

Fort Lauderdale usually gets less rain in April than Bangor. Fort Lauderdale gets 3.1 inches (78 mm) of rain, while Bangor receives 3.3 inches (84 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Fort Lauderdale 75°F (24°C) 
    Bangor 43°F (6°C)

Typical Weather for Bangor and Fort Lauderdale

Fort Lauderdale Bangor
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 67°F (20°C) 2.2 inches (55 mm) 18°F (-8°C) 3 inches (77 mm)
Feb 68°F (20°C) 2.1 inches (53 mm) 20°F (-6°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm)
Mar 72°F (22°C) 2.4 inches (61 mm) 31°F (-1°C) 3.1 inches (80 mm)
Apr 75°F (24°C) 3.1 inches (78 mm) 43°F (6°C) 3.3 inches (84 mm)
May 79°F (26°C) 6.4 inches (162 mm) 54°F (12°C) 3.6 inches (91 mm)
Jun 81°F (27°C) 9.4 inches (238 mm) 64°F (18°C) 3.4 inches (85 mm)
Jul 83°F (28°C) 5.9 inches (149 mm) 69°F (21°C) 3.3 inches (84 mm)
Aug 83°F (28°C) 7.5 inches (191 mm) 67°F (20°C) 3.4 inches (85 mm)
Sep 82°F (28°C) 7.6 inches (194 mm) 59°F (15°C) 3.4 inches (87 mm)
Oct 78°F (26°C) 5.6 inches (143 mm) 48°F (9°C) 3.4 inches (87 mm)
Nov 73°F (23°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm) 37°F (3°C) 4.6 inches (116 mm)
Dec 69°F (21°C) 1.9 inches (48 mm) 24°F (-5°C) 4 inches (100 mm)