A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Fort Lauderdale vs. Bar Harbor for Resorts, Beaches, Couples, and Food

Should you visit Fort Lauderdale or Bar Harbor?

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 Bar Harbor. 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. Fort Lauderdale is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for nightlife, food, and scuba diving and snorkeling. See Fort Lauderdale travel costs.

Bar Harbor

Bar Harbor is a charming, picturesque, and relaxed coastal town. This is also a fantastic small town with plenty of charm and local activities. Bar Harbor is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It also has that perfectly quaint feel that is like no other place. It's also known for hiking, shopping, and food. See Bar Harbor travel costs.

Fort Lauderdale and Bar Harbor: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Fort Lauderdale or Bar Harbor?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Fort Lauderdale. Although Fort Lauderdale and Bar Harbor are both popular with visitors, Fort Lauderdale has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Fort Lauderdale is more popular for its nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, and beaches, while Bar Harbor is known for its hiking, shopping, small town charm, and quaint atmosphere. Fort Lauderdale is more touristy than Bar Harbor and is known for its canals, beaches, walkable waterfront, and luxury resorts. It is also home to The Local Beaches. Bar Harbor is popular for its small town vibe, picturesque setting, whale watching tours, and convenient location near Acadia National Park.

How is Fort Lauderdale different from Bar Harbor?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Both Fort Lauderdale and Bar Harbor offer a number of very good restaurants to choose from.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Fort Lauderdale makes for a great culinary experience. 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.

Bar Harbor has a huge number of terrific restaurants. The town is famous for its Maine lobster, but there are also countless other types of fresh seafood available. You'll find waterfront restaurants with beautiful views and fresh ingredients.

Is Fort Lauderdale or Bar Harbor Better for Nightlife?

Fort Lauderdale is a well-known place for nightlife. However, Bar Harbor is not a good coastal town for nightlife and partying.

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.

Bar Harbor doesn't offer many options. It's a peaceful and sleepy town, so you wont find much in the way of nightlife.

Is Fort Lauderdale or Bar Harbor Better for Resorts?

Fort Lauderdale is terrific for its resorts. Also, Bar Harbor is not as famous, but is still a good coastal town to visit for its luxury resorts.

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.

With a selection of resorts, Bar Harbor makes a nice vacation spot. The town is all about the cute hotel. Several favorites include Sand Bar Cottage Inn, Bluenose Inn, and Bar Harbor Inn and Spa.

Is Fort Lauderdale or Bar Harbor Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Fort Lauderdale is a coastal city with good options for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Bar Harbor 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.

Bar Harbor is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Fort Lauderdale or Bar Harbor Better for Beaches?

Fort Lauderdale is terrific for its beaches. Also, Bar Harbor is not as famous, but is still a good coastal town to visit for the beach.

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.

Bar Harbor offers a nice beach destination. A nice beach is close by but do note that the sand is very shelly and there is a big difference between high and low tides.

Is Fort Lauderdale or Bar Harbor Better for Hiking?

Bar Harbor is a good destination for its hiking experiences. However, Fort Lauderdale is not a hiking destination.

Bar Harbor offers some nice hiking trails. Nearby Acadia National Park has plenty of hiking options. There's also the Bar Harbor Shore Path that wanders along the coastline and offers beautiful views.

Fort Lauderdale is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Fort Lauderdale or Bar Harbor?

Bar Harbor is a great destination for shopping. Also, Fort Lauderdale is still popular, but not quite as popular for its shopping opportunities.

Bar Harbor is an extremely popular place for shoppers. Filled with plenty of local boutique shops, its fun to enjoy some shopping around town.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Fort Lauderdale. For interesting local boutiques head to Las Olas Boulevard and for name brand stores you'll want to visit Sawgrass Mills Mall.

Is Fort Lauderdale or Bar Harbor More Beautiful?

Fort Lauderdale and Bar Harbor both are comparable with their very good scenery and beauty.

Fort Lauderdale is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Seven miles of scenic coastline with a boardwalk to explore make this a beautiful Florida beach destination.

The beauty of Bar Harbor is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Surrounded by the water and beautiful landscaping, the town offers visitors plenty of beauty.

Is Fort Lauderdale or Bar Harbor Better for Families?

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

Fort Lauderdale is 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.

Bar Harbor is a family-friendly coastal city. It is a small town with a lot of outdoor activities that kids will enjoy. Whale watching, kayaking, and wildlife spotting are all fun activities for all ages.

Is Fort Lauderdale or Bar Harbor Better for Couples?

Fort Lauderdale is terrific for romance. Also, Bar Harbor is not as famous, but is still a good coastal town to visit for its romantic activities.

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.

Bar Harbor makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. It is a quaint coastal town that is perfect for a couple's getaway or a short honeymoon. There are romantic restaurants, scenic walks, and beautiful views that make this a wonderful retreat.

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

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

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 Bar Harbor. There is a free shuttle bus that will help you get around town if needed.

Is Fort Lauderdale or Bar Harbor a more walkable city?

Fort Lauderdale and Bar Harbor both are very good when exploring on foot.

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

Bar Harbor is a very walkable coastal city. The town is small enough that it's easily explored on foot.

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

Should I spend more time in Bar Harbor or Fort Lauderdale?

How long in Fort Lauderdale or Bar Harbor?

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

Families should spend more time in Fort Lauderdale than Bar Harbor. 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 Bar Harbor. 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 Fort Lauderdale than Bar Harbor 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 Fort Lauderdale.

One day in Fort Lauderdale or Bar Harbor?

With shopping and nightlife around the scenic coastal city of Fort Lauderdale, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. One of the main draws to the area is the beaches. 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.

Bar Harbor is a small town with plenty to do. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

A weekend in Fort Lauderdale or Bar Harbor?

With nightlife and food around the destination of Fort Lauderdale, there's plenty to do. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. It offers something for everyone. One of the main draws to the area is the beaches. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything.

Bar Harbor might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. 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 Bar Harbor?

Fort Lauderdale, a popular coastal city, 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 coastal city. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Bar Harbor is a great place to explore. This coastal 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 Bar Harbor?

Fort Lauderdale is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have one week, this coastal city makes for a great vacation. One of the main draws to the area is the beaches. One week should give you a good understanding of everything this coastal city has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Since Bar Harbor is a small town, it's easily explored when your time is limited. 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 2-Week Tours from New York City, The Best 2-Week Tours from Anchorage, The Best 2-Week Tours from San Francisco, and The Best 2-Week Tours from Los Angeles.

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

Which is Bigger, Fort Lauderdale or Bar Harbor?

Fort Lauderdale has a larger population, and is about 30 times larger than the population of Bar Harbor. When comparing the sizes of Fort Lauderdale and Bar Harbor, 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 Bar Harbor?

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 Bar Harbor in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Fort Lauderdale and Bar Harbor. 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 Bar Harbor because of the beaches, the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences.

Fort Lauderdale is a little warmer than Bar Harbor in the summer. The daily temperature in Fort Lauderdale averages around 83°F (28°C) in July, and Bar Harbor 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 Bar Harbor. Fort Lauderdale gets 5.9 inches (149 mm) of rain, while Bar Harbor receives 3.3 inches (84 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Fort Lauderdale or Bar Harbor in the Autumn?

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

In the autumn, Fort Lauderdale is much warmer than Bar Harbor. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Fort Lauderdale in October average around 78°F (26°C), and Bar Harbor averages at about 48°F (9°C).

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

Should I visit Fort Lauderdale or Bar Harbor in the Winter?

Both Bar Harbor 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 Bar Harbor for the shopping scene and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Bar Harbor. In January, Fort Lauderdale is generally much warmer than Bar Harbor. Daily temperatures in Fort Lauderdale average around 67°F (20°C), and Bar Harbor fluctuates around 18°F (-8°C).

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

Should I visit Fort Lauderdale or Bar Harbor in the Spring?

Both Bar Harbor 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 Bar Harbor in the spring for the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty.

Fort Lauderdale is much warmer than Bar Harbor in the spring. The daily temperature in Fort Lauderdale averages around 75°F (24°C) in April, and Bar Harbor fluctuates around 43°F (6°C).

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

Typical Weather for Bar Harbor and Fort Lauderdale