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

Should you visit Fort Lauderdale or Charlotte?

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 Charlotte. 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 bustling, spirited, and luxury coastal city. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the beaches, shopping, and nightlife.

Charlotte

Charlotte is a up-and-coming, growing, and evolving city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. It's also known for shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Fort Lauderdale and Charlotte: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Fort Lauderdale or Charlotte?

Travelers will generally find more things to do in Fort Lauderdale than Charlotte. While Charlotte is larger than Fort Lauderdale, Fort Lauderdale has more sights and attractions for tourists. Fort Lauderdale is better known for its nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and impressive beauty, while Charlotte is more popular for its museums and big city activities. Fort Lauderdale is more touristy than Charlotte and is popular for its canals, beaches, walkable waterfront, and luxury resorts. Also, Fort Lauderdale is famous for The Local Beaches. Charlotte is well known for its banking industry and growing Uptown area.

How is Fort Lauderdale different from Charlotte?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Charlotte is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. The Mint Museum is a popular place to visit, as is the Gantt Center for African American Arts. Art enthusiasts will appreciate a visit to the Bechtler Museum of Modern Art and sports enthusiasts will enjoy a stop at the NASCAR Hall of Fame.

Fort Lauderdale does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Both Fort Lauderdale and Charlotte 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.

Charlotte has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. The food scene continues to grow and change around town. You'll find the latest trendy restaurant changes regularly, but dishes often include upscale southern faire or classic American. There are also many international restaurants, particularly Mexican, Thai, and Chinese.

Is Fort Lauderdale or Charlotte Better for Nightlife?

Fort Lauderdale is great for its evening party scene. Also, Charlotte is not as popular, but is still a nice city for nightlife.

Many people head to Fort Lauderdale for the nightlife scene. 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.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Charlotte. Head Uptown for some of the best nightlife. The city has many bars and clubs that keep things fun late into the night.

Is Fort Lauderdale or Charlotte Better for Resorts?

Fort Lauderdale is terrific for its luxury resorts. However, Charlotte is not a resort destination.

If you're looking for a fantastic resort destination, Fort Lauderdale is a perfect 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.

Charlotte is not a resort destination.

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

Fort Lauderdale is very good for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Charlotte is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

It's worth going snorkeling or scuba diving 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.

Charlotte is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Fort Lauderdale or Charlotte Better for Beaches?

Fort Lauderdale is terrific for the beach. However, Charlotte is not a beach destination.

With world-famous beaches, Fort Lauderdale is a very popular vacation 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.

Charlotte is not a beach destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Fort Lauderdale or Charlotte?

Shopping is a popular activity in both Charlotte 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 Charlotte. Shopping malls such as SouthPark Mall or Carolina Place offer all of the standard retailers. Concord Mills is another favorite mall in the area. Aside from the malls, there is no shortage of shopping centers around town.

Is Fort Lauderdale or Charlotte Better for Families?

Fort Lauderdale is great for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Charlotte is not as popular, but is still a nice city 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.

Charlotte is a family-friendly place to visit. There are a number of museums for kids, with one of the best being Discovery Place. It has many hands-on science based exhibits that kids will love. Another unique experience is a visit to the U.S. National Whitewater Center. Carowinds Amusement Park is also in the area as are many great parks, playgrounds, and natural areas.

Is Fort Lauderdale or Charlotte Better for Couples?

Fort Lauderdale is terrific for couples. Also, Charlotte is not as popular, but is still a nice city for romance.

For those traveling as a couple, Fort Lauderdale 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.

Charlotte is a nice destination for couples. There are a number of date night activities around town, particularly Uptown. You can see a show or concert at the Blumenthal Performing Arts Center or hit up one of the trendy bars or restaurants. There are also sporting events and other festivals that are fun to experience.

Is Fort Lauderdale or Charlotte Better for Students?

Charlotte is a good destination for students. However, Fort Lauderdale is not popular with students.

Charlotte is popular with students. There are a number of smaller colleges in town, but the biggest university is the University of North Carolina at Charlotte.

Fort Lauderdale is not popular with students.

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

Charlotte is a good destination for its public transit. However, Fort Lauderdale is a coastal city with minimal options for times when you don't have a car.

You'll find some public transit in Charlotte, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There's a light rail system as well as buses that travel around town.

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

Is Fort Lauderdale or Charlotte a more walkable city?

Fort Lauderdale is great for its ease of walking around. Also, Charlotte is not as popular, but is still a nice city 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.

Charlotte is somewhat walkable. The Uptown area is the most walkable part of the city.

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

Should I spend more time in Charlotte or Fort Lauderdale?

How long in Fort Lauderdale or Charlotte?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Fort Lauderdale and Charlotte. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Fort Lauderdale than in Charlotte. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Fort Lauderdale, and 1-3 days is enough time in Charlotte.

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

One day in Fort Lauderdale or Charlotte?

You'll find scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping around the coastal city of Fort Lauderdale. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

The evolving destination of Charlotte offers nightlife and food. 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 Charlotte?

You'll find shopping and nightlife around the luxury destination of Fort Lauderdale. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. This coastal city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

The city of Charlotte offers food and shopping. 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 Charlotte?

You'll find nightlife and food around the spirited coastal city of Fort Lauderdale. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this coastal city makes for a great vacation. It's also a relaxing resort destination. Most people head to the area for the beaches. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this coastal city has to offer.

Charlotte 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 Charlotte?

Fort Lauderdale is a popular choice for travelers. One week here is typical. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Fort Lauderdale, one week is sufficent for most. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Charlotte. 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 Cruise Tours and Packages in United States of America, The Best Cultural Tours in United States of America, The Best Camping Tours in United States of America, and The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in United States of America.

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

Which is Bigger, Fort Lauderdale or Charlotte?

Charlotte has a larger population, and is about 4 times larger than the population of Fort Lauderdale. When comparing the sizes of Fort Lauderdale and Charlotte, 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 Charlotte?

Both places have a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. As both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Fort Lauderdale or Charlotte in the Summer?

Both Charlotte and Fort Lauderdale during the summer are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Fort Lauderdale for the beaches, snorkeling, and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, many visitors come to Charlotte in the summer for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Fort Lauderdale is generally around the same temperature as Charlotte. Daily temperatures in Fort Lauderdale average around 83°F (28°C), and Charlotte fluctuates around 81°F (27°C).

In Charlotte, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Fort Lauderdale. In the summer, Fort Lauderdale often gets more sunshine than Charlotte. Fort Lauderdale gets 316 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Charlotte receives 289 hours of full sun.

Charlotte gets a good bit of rain this time of year. It rains a lot this time of the year in Fort Lauderdale. Fort Lauderdale usually gets more rain in July than Charlotte. Fort Lauderdale gets 5.9 inches (149 mm) of rain, while Charlotte receives 4.6 inches (116 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Fort Lauderdale or Charlotte in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Fort Lauderdale and Charlotte. Many visitors come to Fort Lauderdale in the autumn for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area. Furthermore, most visitors come to Charlotte for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene during these months.

Fort Lauderdale is a little warmer than Charlotte in the autumn. The daily temperature in Fort Lauderdale averages around 78°F (26°C) in October, and Charlotte fluctuates around 63°F (17°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Charlotte this time of the year. In Fort Lauderdale, it's very sunny this time of the year. Fort Lauderdale usually receives more sunshine than Charlotte during autumn. Fort Lauderdale gets 275 hours of sunny skies, while Charlotte receives 223 hours of full sun in the autumn.

Fort Lauderdale gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In October, Fort Lauderdale usually receives more rain than Charlotte. Fort Lauderdale gets 5.6 inches (143 mm) of rain, while Charlotte receives 2.7 inches (68 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Fort Lauderdale or Charlotte in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Fort Lauderdale as well as Charlotte. Most visitors come to Fort Lauderdale for the shopping scene and the cuisine during these months. Additionally, the winter months attract visitors to Charlotte because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

In the winter, Fort Lauderdale is much warmer than Charlotte. Typically, the winter temperatures in Fort Lauderdale in January average around 67°F (20°C), and Charlotte averages at about 42°F (6°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Fort Lauderdale this time of the year. In the winter, Fort Lauderdale often gets more sunshine than Charlotte. Fort Lauderdale gets 243 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Charlotte receives 173 hours of full sun.

Fort Lauderdale usually gets less rain in January than Charlotte. Fort Lauderdale gets 2.2 inches (55 mm) of rain, while Charlotte receives 3.5 inches (89 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Fort Lauderdale or Charlotte in the Spring?

Both Charlotte and Fort Lauderdale are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The spring months attract visitors to Fort Lauderdale because of the beaches and the natural beauty. Also, the activities around the city are the main draw to Charlotte this time of year.

In April, Fort Lauderdale is generally a little warmer than Charlotte. Daily temperatures in Fort Lauderdale average around 75°F (24°C), and Charlotte fluctuates around 63°F (17°C).

It's quite sunny in Charlotte. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Fort Lauderdale. Fort Lauderdale usually receives more sunshine than Charlotte during spring. Fort Lauderdale gets 300 hours of sunny skies, while Charlotte receives 273 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Fort Lauderdale usually receives less rain than Charlotte. Fort Lauderdale gets 3.1 inches (78 mm) of rain, while Charlotte receives 3.4 inches (86 mm) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Charlotte and Fort Lauderdale