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

Should you visit Fort Lauderdale or Fairbanks?

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 Fairbanks. 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.

Fairbanks

Fairbanks is a Arctic, unique, and outdoorsy city. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. It's also known for hiking, shopping, and museums.

Fort Lauderdale and Fairbanks: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Fort Lauderdale or Fairbanks?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Fort Lauderdale than Fairbanks, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Fort Lauderdale is better known for its food, nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, and beaches, while Fairbanks is more popular for its skiing, museums, hiking, and impressive beauty. Fort Lauderdale is more touristy than Fairbanks and is popular for its canals, beaches, walkable waterfront, and luxury resorts. Also, Fort Lauderdale is famous for The Local Beaches. Fairbanks is well known for its remote wilderness setting, access to the Arctic, unique winter sports, and popularity for seeing the northern lights.

How is Fort Lauderdale different from Fairbanks?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Fort Lauderdale or Fairbanks Better for Skiing?

Fairbanks is a city with a few options for winter skiing. However, Fort Lauderdale is not a skiing destination.

Locals like to visit Fairbanks to take advantage of their winter sports. The closest ski areas are the ski resorts of Fort Wainwright/Birch Hill, Moose Mountain and Skiland. The area also has dog mushing, snowshoeing, sledding, tubing and sleigh riding.

Fort Lauderdale is not a skiing destination.

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

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

Fairbanks is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. The city is mostly known for its outdoor activities, but you can also visit the Morris Thompson Cultural & Visitors Center, the Aurora Ice Museum, Fountainhead Auto Museum, the Museum of the North, and Pioneer Park.

Fort Lauderdale does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Fort Lauderdale is a popular place for its restaurants. However, Fairbanks is lacking in good 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.

Fairbanks offers some easy restaurants to choose from. Food can be expensive and of varying quality, but many restaurants use local meats and seafood. There's a surprising number of international restaurants in town as well. Also make sure you try the local specialties like reindeer sausage, Yukon gold potatoes, and Alaskan salmon.

Is Fort Lauderdale or Fairbanks Better for Nightlife?

Fort Lauderdale is a very popular place for its evening party scene. However, Fairbanks is lacking in good options for nightlife.

Fort Lauderdale has a large number of nightlife venues. 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.

Things get quiet in the evenings in Fairbanks. You will find some bars around town, but for the most part, the city stays quiet at night.

Is Fort Lauderdale or Fairbanks Better for Resorts?

Fort Lauderdale is an amazing coastal city to visit for its luxury resorts. However, Fairbanks 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.

Fairbanks is not a resort destination.

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

Fort Lauderdale is a popular place for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Fairbanks 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.

Fairbanks is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Fort Lauderdale or Fairbanks Better for Beaches?

Fort Lauderdale is an amazing coastal city to visit for the beach. However, Fairbanks 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.

Fairbanks is not a beach destination.

Is Fort Lauderdale or Fairbanks Better for Hiking?

Fairbanks is a great destination for its hiking experiences. However, Fort Lauderdale is not a hiking destination.

You'll find a nice variety of hiking trails around Fairbanks. While the town serves as a gateway to the Arctic and all that it has to offer, there are also hiking trails both in town and nearby. There are trails that connect the city's historic sites as well as day hikes that start at the edge of town.

Fort Lauderdale is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Fort Lauderdale or Fairbanks?

Shopping is a popular activity in both Fairbanks 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 Fairbanks. There are interesting local shops and boutiques that sell native Alaskan handmade items. You'll find "Made in Alaska" merchandise at many boutiques and souvenir shops. There are also larger retailers available in case you forgot clothing or other items at home.

Is Fort Lauderdale or Fairbanks Better for Families?

Fort Lauderdale is a very popular place for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Fairbanks is not quite as popular, but is fairly good 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.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Fairbanks. Kids who enjoy searching for wildlife, playing in the snow, and exploring nature will love a visit to Fairbanks. Make sure you visit the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge as well as Pioneer Park.

Is Fort Lauderdale or Fairbanks Better for Couples?

Fort Lauderdale is an amazing coastal city to visit for couples. Also, Fairbanks is not quite as popular, but is fairly good 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.

Fairbanks is a nice destination for couples. Couples who enjoy hiking and nature will love a visit here. If you're hoping to see the northern lights, Fairbanks is your best destination in Alaska. Try to visit sometime between August to April for the best chance of enjoying the lights.

Is Fort Lauderdale or Fairbanks Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Fairbanks is a great destination for backpackers. However, Fort Lauderdale is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

Backpackers come from all over to visit Fairbanks. There are many outdoor recreation areas where backpackers can explore. Alaska, and Fairbanks in particular, can have very harsh conditions, so unless you know what you're doing, it's best to take a guide.

Fort Lauderdale is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

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

Fort Lauderdale is a decent place to visit for times when you don't have a car. However, Fairbanks is lacking in good options for its public transit.

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

Public transit is limited or non-existant in Fairbanks. There is a public bus system that connects the downtown area with the shopping areas and the university. However, you really can't rely on it to explore the region and you should have your own vehicle.

Is Fort Lauderdale or Fairbanks a more walkable city?

Fort Lauderdale is a very popular place for its ease of walking around. However, Fairbanks is lacking in good 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.

Fairbanks is not a walkable coastal city. The city was built for cars and there are very few walkable areas around town.

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

Should I spend more time in Fairbanks or Fort Lauderdale?

How long in Fort Lauderdale or Fairbanks?

It's fun to spend time in either Fort Lauderdale or Fairbanks. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Fort Lauderdale due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Fort Lauderdale, and 2-4 days is enough time in Fairbanks.

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

One day in Fort Lauderdale or Fairbanks?

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 outdoorsy destination of Fairbanks offers shopping and museums. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. 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 Fairbanks?

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 Fairbanks offers museums and shopping. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while 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 Fairbanks?

You'll find nightlife and food around the bustling 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.

Fairbanks is a great place to explore. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. 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 Fairbanks?

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 shopping when visiting Fairbanks. Hikers are also drawn to this area. 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.

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

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 Fairbanks Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Fort Lauderdale or Fairbanks?

Fort Lauderdale has a larger population, and is about 6 times larger than the population of Fairbanks. When comparing the sizes of Fort Lauderdale and Fairbanks, 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 Fairbanks?

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 Fairbanks in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Fort Lauderdale as well as Fairbanks. The beaches, snorkeling, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Fort Lauderdale this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Fairbanks for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Fort Lauderdale is generally much warmer than Fairbanks. Daily temperatures in Fort Lauderdale average around 83°F (28°C), and Fairbanks fluctuates around 64°F (18°C).

Fort Lauderdale receives a lot of rain in the summer. Fort Lauderdale usually gets more rain in July than Fairbanks. Fort Lauderdale gets 5.9 inches (149 mm) of rain, while Fairbanks receives 2 inches (51 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Fort Lauderdale or Fairbanks in the Autumn?

Both Fairbanks and Fort Lauderdale are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Fort Lauderdale for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area. Also, many visitors come to Fairbanks in the autumn for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

Fairbanks can get quite cold in the autumn. Fort Lauderdale is much warmer than Fairbanks in the autumn. The daily temperature in Fort Lauderdale averages around 78°F (26°C) in October, and Fairbanks fluctuates around 27°F (-3°C).

It's quite rainy in Fort Lauderdale. In October, Fort Lauderdale usually receives more rain than Fairbanks. Fort Lauderdale gets 5.6 inches (143 mm) of rain, while Fairbanks receives 0.9 inches (22 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Fort Lauderdale or Fairbanks in the Winter?

Both Fairbanks and Fort Lauderdale during the winter are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Fort Lauderdale in the winter for the shopping scene and the cuisine. Furthermore, most visitors come to Fairbanks for the skiing, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Fairbanks can be very cold during winter. In the winter, Fort Lauderdale is much warmer than Fairbanks. Typically, the winter temperatures in Fort Lauderdale in January average around 67°F (20°C), and Fairbanks averages at about -9°F (-23°C).

Fort Lauderdale usually gets more rain in January than Fairbanks. Fort Lauderdale gets 2.2 inches (55 mm) of rain, while Fairbanks receives 0.5 inches (13 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Fort Lauderdale or Fairbanks in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Fort Lauderdale and Fairbanks. Most visitors come to Fort Lauderdale for the beaches and the natural beauty during these months. Furthermore, the spring months attract visitors to Fairbanks because of the natural beauty.

The weather in Fairbanks can be very cold. In April, Fort Lauderdale is generally much warmer than Fairbanks. Daily temperatures in Fort Lauderdale average around 75°F (24°C), and Fairbanks fluctuates around 32°F (0°C).

In April, Fort Lauderdale usually receives more rain than Fairbanks. Fort Lauderdale gets 3.1 inches (78 mm) of rain, while Fairbanks receives 0.4 inches (9 mm) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Fairbanks and Fort Lauderdale