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

Should you visit Fort Lauderdale or Boise?

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 Boise. 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 scenic, bustling, and spirited coastal city. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the scuba diving and snorkeling, beaches, and shopping.

Boise

Boise is a friendly, welcoming, and authentic city. It's also known for nightlife, shopping, and museums.

Fort Lauderdale and Boise: Pros and Cons

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


Is there more to do in Fort Lauderdale or Boise?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Fort Lauderdale. Although Fort Lauderdale and Boise are roughly the same size, Fort Lauderdale has more sights and attractions for tourists. Fort Lauderdale is better known for its food, nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and impressive beauty, while Boise is more popular for its museums. Fort Lauderdale is more touristy than Boise and is popular for its canals, beaches, walkable waterfront, and luxury resorts. Also, Fort Lauderdale is famous for The Local Beaches. Boise is well known for its many outdoor and recreational activities.

How is Fort Lauderdale different from Boise?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Fort Lauderdale
Boise

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

Boise is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. As the state capital, there's a nice selection of local museums around town. Favorites include the Boise Art Museum, the Basque Museum & Cultural Center, the Idaho Black History Museum, and Discovery Center.

Fort Lauderdale does not have museums and landmarks.


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

Fort Lauderdale
Boise

Fort Lauderdale is a popular place for its restaurants. However, Boise is lacking in options for its restaurant scene.

Fort Lauderdale is becoming an appealing option for foodies. 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.

Boise offers some easy restaurants to choose from. While Idaho has long been associated with the potato, the locals usually think of "finger steaks" when describing local food. These are deep-friend beef strips that are as good as they sound.

Is Fort Lauderdale or Boise Better for Nightlife?

Fort Lauderdale
Boise

Fort Lauderdale is an excellent place to visit for its evening party scene. Also, Boise is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for nightlife.

Fort Lauderdale has a lively atmosphere and nightlife is popular here. 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.

Boise has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. In downtown Boise you'll find a selection of bars, lounges, and breweries. There's enough around town to keep the nightlife scene interesting.

Is Fort Lauderdale or Boise Better for Resorts?

Fort Lauderdale
Boise

Fort Lauderdale is a must-visit destination for its luxury resorts. However, Boise is not a resort destination.

For the ultimate resort vacation, Fort Lauderdale is a great choice. 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.

Boise is not a resort destination.


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

Fort Lauderdale
Boise

Fort Lauderdale is a popular place for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Boise is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Fort Lauderdale has a few good snorkeling spots. 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.

Boise is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Fort Lauderdale or Boise Better for Beaches?

Fort Lauderdale
Boise

Fort Lauderdale is a must-visit destination for the beach. However, Boise is not a beach destination.

Travelers come from around the world to visit the beaches in Fort Lauderdale. 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.

Boise is not a beach destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Fort Lauderdale or Boise?

Fort Lauderdale
Boise

Shopping is a popular activity in both Boise 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 Boise. You'll find a mix of local boutiques, independent vendors, and suburban shopping centers where you'll find anything that you might need.


Is Fort Lauderdale or Boise Better for Families?

Fort Lauderdale
Boise

Fort Lauderdale is an excellent place to visit for its kid-friendly activities. However, Boise is lacking in options for its family-friendly activities.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Fort Lauderdale. 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.

Boise doesn't usually come to mind when thinking about kid-friendly destinations. You'll find parks, playgrounds, and the Discovery Center which will help keep kids entertained.

Is Fort Lauderdale or Boise Better for Couples?

Fort Lauderdale
Boise

Fort Lauderdale is a must-visit destination for couples. However, Boise is lacking in options for romance.

Fort Lauderdale makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. 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.

Boise is not the best destination for a couple to visit. Date night activities include dining at a nice restaurants and seeing a show at the theater.

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

Fort Lauderdale
Boise

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

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 Boise. There are infrequent buses around town, but visitors usually have a car to get around town efficiently.


Is Fort Lauderdale or Boise a more walkable city?

Fort Lauderdale
Boise

Fort Lauderdale is an excellent place to visit for its ease of walking around. However, Boise is lacking in options 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.

Boise is generally not very walkable. There are a couple of walkable neighborhoods but, in general, the town isn't very walkable.

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

Should I spend more time in Boise or Fort Lauderdale?

How long in Fort Lauderdale or Boise?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Fort Lauderdale or Boise to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Fort Lauderdale than Boise 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 Boise.

Families should spend more time in Fort Lauderdale than Boise. 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 Boise. 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.


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

One day in Fort Lauderdale or Boise?

In Fort Lauderdale, many people enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping that this spirited destination offers. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. Lots of people come for the beaches. This coastal city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

The welcoming destination of Boise 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 Boise?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Fort Lauderdale. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

The city of Boise offers museums and nightlife. 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 Boise?

Fort Lauderdale is a fun place to experience. In Fort Lauderdale, many people enjoy the nightlife and food that this destination offers. Lots of people come for the beaches. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. This would be the perfect place to spend five days, as it has just the right amount of activities.

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

A week in Fort Lauderdale or Boise?

In Fort Lauderdale, many people enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling that this bustling destination offers. Plenty of people spend one week in the area when traveling. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Lots of people come for the beaches. One week is often enough time to do most activities.

Many people enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting Boise. 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, Boise 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 Boise is $146. 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 Boise in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Fort Lauderdale $96
    Boise $75
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Fort Lauderdale $192
    Boise $150
Compare Hotels in Fort Lauderdale and Boise

Looking for a hotel in Fort Lauderdale or Boise? 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 Boise


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 Boise Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Fort Lauderdale $51
    Boise $34

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Fort Lauderdale

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Fort Lauderdale:

  • Transfer: FLL Airport to Fort Lauderdale Area Vice Versa: $120
  • Transfer Private Vehicle from City -Fort Lauderdale Airport (FLL): $40
  • Private transfer from Port of Miami to Fort Lauderdale: $220
  • Private Transfer to Fort Lauderdale Airport FLL Departures: $95
  • Private Transfer from Fort Lauderdale Airport to Islamorada : $261
  • Private Transfer from Fort Lauderdale Airport to Coral Gables: $131
  • Private Transfer from Fort Lauderdale Airport to Boynton Beach : $120
  • Private Transfer from Fort Lauderdale Airport (FLL) to Fort Lauderdale: $130
  • Private Transfer from FLL to Port Everglades / Fort Lauderdale: $130
  • Private Transfer To or From Fort Lauderdale Airport & CruisePort : $94
  • Private Sedan Departure Transfer to Fort Lauderdale Airport FLL: $67
  • Private Sedan Arrival Transfer from Fort Lauderdale Airport FLL: $67

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Boise

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

  • Boise Air Terminal Airport One Way Transfer : $80

Is it cheaper to fly into Fort Lauderdale or Boise?

Prices for flights to both Boise 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
    Boise $45
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
  • Fort Lauderdale Beach Food Tour: $114

Typical Food Prices in Boise

For Boise, here are some examples of average food and meal prices for travelers:


  • Hotel
    $59
  • Cracker Barrel Lunch (for 4)
    $55

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Fort Lauderdale $15
    Boise $30

Tours and Activities in Fort Lauderdale

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

  • 1-Hour Interactive Pirate Cruise in Ft. Lauderdale (arrive 30 minutes early): $25
  • 2 Hour Intimate Cruise for 2ppl w/ Catering - Pompano Beach: $270
  • 4 Hour Waterway and Sandbar Cruise: $803
  • 90-Minute Parasailing Adventure Above Fort Lauderdale, FL: $80
  • 90-Minute Snorkel & Seabob Underwater Guided Reef Tour in Fort Lauderdale: $161
  • Air Boat Tour of Palm Beach in The Swamp Monster: $150
  • Atlantic Ocean Snorkeling Experience: $79
  • Bahamas Day Cruise to Bimni: $299
  • Carrie B Cruises! Beautiful and Fun THE VENICE OF AMERICA TOUR!!!: $32
  • Champagne Sunset Cruise in Ft. Lauderdale: $89
  • Chocolate and Dessert Tasting Tour in Fort Lauderdale Florida: $40
  • Comedy Segway Tour Music Edition: $85

Typical Entertainment Prices in Boise

Below are a few sample prices from actual travelers for Boise's activities, tours, and tickets:


  • Edwards Boise Imax
    $27

Tours and Activities in Boise

For Boise, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • Scavenger Hunt Adventure in Boise by 3Quest Challenge: $10
  • Scavenger Hunt Adventure Self-Guided City Game: $10
  • Boise Scavenger Hunt and Sights Self-Guided Tour: $13
  • Boise Scavenger Hunt and Sights Self-Guided Tour: $13
  • Boise Scavenger Hunt Adventure: $21
  • A Macabre History of Boise Walking Tour: $25
  • Hells Canyon Kirkwood Jet Boat Tour near Boise, Idaho: $218

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Fort Lauderdale $33
    Boise $24
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:

  • Ft Lauderdale Ghosts Boos and Booze Haunted Pub Crawl: $37
  • Guided Happy Hour Bar Crawl by Beer Bike: $64
  • Pedibus Pub Crawl in Fort Lauderdale: $74
  • Party Bike Bar Crawl: $74


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

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 Boise Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Fort Lauderdale or Boise?

Fort Lauderdale has a larger population, and is about 17% larger than the population of Boise. When comparing the sizes of Fort Lauderdale and Boise, 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.