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

Should you visit Fort Lauderdale or Houston?

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 Houston. 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 high energy, scenic, and bustling coastal city. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the food, scuba diving and snorkeling, and beaches.

Houston

Houston is a one-of-a-kind, diverse, and sprawling city. It's an amazing and huge city with tons of activities and things to do. It's also known for live music, food, and shopping.

Fort Lauderdale and Houston: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Fort Lauderdale or Houston?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Houston than Fort Lauderdale. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Houston is very popular for its museums, music, and big city activities, while Fort Lauderdale attracts visitors for its resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and impressive beauty. Fort Lauderdale is more touristy than Houston and is known for its canals, beaches, walkable waterfront, and luxury resorts. Houston is famous for its sprawling size, its local Texas restaurants, and being the home to NASA. It is also well known for The Space Center Houston.

How is Fort Lauderdale different from Houston?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around Houston. Head to Houston's Museum District to explore 19 different museums in a walkable area. A highlight of a trip to the city is a visit to the Space Center, but other popular museums include the Houston Museum of Natural Science, the Museum of Fine Arts, and the Houston Children's Museum.

Fort Lauderdale does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Both Fort Lauderdale and Houston offer a number of nice 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.

Houston has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. The city is famous for its Texas barbecue, Mexican food, and a wide diversity of other different ethnic foods. It's a surprisingly diverse city and this is reflected in the restaurant selection around town.

Is Fort Lauderdale or Houston Better for Nightlife?

It's hard to distinguish whether Fort Lauderdale or Houston has a better nightlife scene.

The people in Fort Lauderdale know how to have a good time. 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.

The nightlife in Houston has something for everybody. The nightlife is at its best on weekends when bars, dance clubs, and concert halls come to life. There are a diversity of venues around town including dance clubs, Honky Tonks, and cocktail bars. Some of the most active nightlife areas are Downtown, Midtown, Montrose, Washington Avenue, and Rice Village.

Is Fort Lauderdale or Houston Better for Music?

Houston is a good destination for live music. However, Fort Lauderdale is not a live music destination.

You don't have to look far to find a unique music venue in Houston. Popular music venues include Fitzgerald's, Walter's Downtown, and The Continental Club.

Fort Lauderdale is not a live music destination.

Is Fort Lauderdale or Houston Better for Resorts?

Fort Lauderdale is a world-class destination for its resorts. However, Houston is not a resort destination.

Vacationers flock to Fort Lauderdale for its luxury resorts. 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.

Houston is not a resort destination.

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

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

Grab a mask and fins and explore the underwater scenery 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.

Houston is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Fort Lauderdale or Houston Better for Beaches?

Fort Lauderdale is a world-class destination for the beache. However, Houston is not a beach destination.

Fort Lauderdale offers stunning beaches that attract visitors from around the world. 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.

Houston is not a beach destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Fort Lauderdale or Houston?

Shopping is a popular activity in both Houston 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 Houston. There are a number of upscale malls and shopping centers that have brand names, chain stores, and the occasional local shop where you can pick up items.

Is Fort Lauderdale or Houston Better for Families?

Both Fort Lauderdale and Houston are excellent family-friendly destinations.

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.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Houston is very family-friendly. It is a large city with plenty of things that kids can enjoy including museums, theaters, a zoo, and even the Space Center. The Children's Museum of Houston is perfect for a rainy day. For science loving kids there's the Health Museum and the Museum of Natural Science. Houston also has a Six Flags nearby which the whole family can enjoy.

Is Fort Lauderdale or Houston Better for Couples?

Fort Lauderdale is a world-class destination for its romantic activities. Also, Houston is still popular, but not quite as popular for couples.

Fort Lauderdale is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. 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.

Houston is a good coastal city for couples to visit. There's a surprising diversity of restaurants around the city. There are also performing arts productions and many outdoor parks and gardens.

Is Fort Lauderdale or Houston Better for Students?

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

Houston is popular with students. It's a large city with a number of universities and a large student population.

Fort Lauderdale is not popular with students.

Is Fort Lauderdale or Houston 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 Houston.

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 Houston. The system includes buses and a limited light rail. Houston is known as a car-centric city and you really need a car to fully experience it.

Is Fort Lauderdale or Houston a more walkable city?

Fort Lauderdale is well known for its high level of walkability. However, Houston is not particularly known for its ease of walking around.

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

Houston is generally not a very walkable coastal city. The most walkable neighborhood is the historic Houston Heights, but most parts of the city aren't very walkable.

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

Should I spend more time in Houston or Fort Lauderdale?

How long in Fort Lauderdale or Houston?

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

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

One day in Fort Lauderdale or Houston?

In Fort Lauderdale, you'll find nightlife and food. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. One reason most visitors come is for the beaches. This coastal city offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

Houston is a big city 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 Houston?

In Fort Lauderdale, you'll find food and scuba diving and snorkeling. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Most people come for the beaches. One reason most visitors come is for the beaches. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

Houston is a big city with plenty to do. 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 Houston?

Fort Lauderdale is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Fort Lauderdale has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

Houston 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 Houston?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Fort Lauderdale. In Fort Lauderdale, you'll find shopping and nightlife. One reason most visitors come is for the beaches. It's also a relaxing resort destination. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one week here.

Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Houston. 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 Train & Rail Tours in United States of America, The Best Sightseeing Tours in United States of America, The Best Cruise Tours and Packages in United States of America, and The Best Cultural Tours in United States of America.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Fort Lauderdale and Houston, we can see that Houston 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 Houston would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Houston 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 Houston Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Fort Lauderdale or Houston?

Houston has a larger population, and is about 10 times larger than the population of Fort Lauderdale. When comparing the sizes of Fort Lauderdale and Houston, 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 Houston?

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 Houston in the Summer?

Both Houston and Fort Lauderdale are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The summer months attract visitors to Fort Lauderdale because of the beaches, snorkeling, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Houston this time of year.

In the summer, Fort Lauderdale is around the same temperature as Houston. Typically, the summer temperatures in Fort Lauderdale in July average around 83°F (28°C), and Houston averages at about 84°F (29°C).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Houston. It's quite rainy in Fort Lauderdale. In July, Fort Lauderdale usually receives more rain than Houston. Fort Lauderdale gets 5.9 inches (149 mm) of rain, while Houston receives 4.8 inches (122 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Fort Lauderdale or Houston in the Autumn?

Both Houston and Fort Lauderdale during the autumn are popular places to visit. The shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Fort Lauderdale this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Houston for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the music scene.

In October, Fort Lauderdale is generally a little warmer than Houston. Daily temperatures in Fort Lauderdale average around 78°F (26°C), and Houston fluctuates around 71°F (22°C).

Houston 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 October than Houston. Fort Lauderdale gets 5.6 inches (143 mm) of rain, while Houston receives 4.2 inches (107 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Fort Lauderdale or Houston in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Fort Lauderdale and Houston. Many travelers come to Fort Lauderdale for the shopping scene and the cuisine. Furthermore, many visitors come to Houston in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Fort Lauderdale is much warmer than Houston in the winter. The daily temperature in Fort Lauderdale averages around 67°F (20°C) in January, and Houston fluctuates around 52°F (11°C).

In January, Fort Lauderdale usually receives less rain than Houston. Fort Lauderdale gets 2.2 inches (55 mm) of rain, while Houston receives 3.6 inches (91 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Fort Lauderdale or Houston in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Fort Lauderdale as well as Houston. Many visitors come to Fort Lauderdale in the spring for the beaches and the natural beauty. Additionally, most visitors come to Houston for the activities around the city during these months.

In the spring, Fort Lauderdale is a little warmer than Houston. Typically, the spring temperatures in Fort Lauderdale in April average around 75°F (24°C), and Houston averages at about 70°F (21°C).

Fort Lauderdale usually gets around the same amount of rain in April as Houston. Fort Lauderdale gets 3.1 inches (78 mm) of rain, while Houston receives 3.1 inches (78 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Houston and Fort Lauderdale