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

Should you visit Fort Lauderdale or Mystic?

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 Mystic. 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. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Other reasons to visit include food, scuba diving and snorkeling, and beaches.

Mystic

Mystic is a charming, quaint, and laid back town. It's also known for food, beaches, and shopping.

Fort Lauderdale and Mystic: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Fort Lauderdale or Mystic?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Fort Lauderdale. Although Fort Lauderdale and Mystic 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, beaches, and impressive beauty, while Mystic is known for its museums and shopping. Fort Lauderdale is more touristy than Mystic and is popular for its canals, beaches, walkable waterfront, and luxury resorts. It is also home to The Local Beaches. Mystic is popular for its New England charm and local character.

How is Fort Lauderdale different from Mystic?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Mystic 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 Mystic. There's a decent selection of museums around town with some of the favorites being the Mystic Seaport Museum, the Mystic Museum of Art, the Denison Homestead Museum, and the Old Lighthouse Museum, The Mystic Aquarium is also a popular destination.

Fort Lauderdale does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Both Fort Lauderdale and Mystic offer a number of good 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.

Mystic has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. As a coastal town, you'll find no shortage of seafood at many restaurants. Popular dishes include oysters, shrimp, or fish. There are also many casual restaurants that serve comfort food for classic American favorites like mac and cheese, pasta, or burgers.

Is Fort Lauderdale or Mystic Better for Nightlife?

Fort Lauderdale is an excellent place to visit for nightlife. Also, Mystic is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for nightlife and partying.

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.

Mystic has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. Head downtown for the most interesting bars and breweries. You can sip wine or enjoy a cocktail at a laid back pub with friends or family.

Is Fort Lauderdale or Mystic Better for Resorts?

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

Mystic is not a resort destination.

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

Fort Lauderdale is a good destination for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Mystic 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.

Mystic is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Fort Lauderdale or Mystic Better for Beaches?

Fort Lauderdale is an amazing coastal city to visit for its beaches. Also, Mystic is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for the beache.

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.

Mystic is considered a top beach destination. The beaches are accessible from town and offer a laid back setting that's not overly developed. Families will like Ocean Beach Park but Williams Beach Park is one of the easiest beaches to access. If you're willing to drive a bit out of town, you should check out Misquamicut State Beach.

Is the Shopping Better in Fort Lauderdale or Mystic?

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

Mystic is an extremely popular place for shoppers. Head downtown for scenic shopping streets with boutiques, artisan craft shops, and jewelry stores.

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 Mystic Better for Families?

Both Fort Lauderdale and Mystic 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, Mystic is very family-friendly. Animal lovers will enjoy wandering around the many trails at Denison Pequotsepos Nature Center or visiting the famous Mystic Aquarium. You can also visit the shops around Olde Mistick Village or dine at one of the many kid-friendly restaurants.

Is Fort Lauderdale or Mystic Better for Couples?

Fort Lauderdale is an amazing coastal city to visit for romance. Also, Mystic is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its romantic activities.

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.

Mystic makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Check out Mystic Seaport or drive down the coastline and visit the lighthouses. You'll also find breweries around town as well as many fun or romantic restaurants.

Is Fort Lauderdale or Mystic 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, Mystic is lacking in 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 Mystic. There is a bus but it has limited stops and only runs on weekdays.

Is Fort Lauderdale or Mystic a more walkable city?

Fort Lauderdale is an excellent place to visit for its walkability. However, Mystic is lacking in options for its high level of walkability.

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.

Mystic is generally not very walkable. While parts of town are very walkable, you'll need a car if you want to see the sights that are a bit further away.

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

Should I spend more time in Mystic or Fort Lauderdale?

How long in Fort Lauderdale or Mystic?

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

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

One day in Fort Lauderdale or Mystic?

Many travelers enjoy the shopping and nightlife when visiting the destination of Fort Lauderdale. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

The quaint destination of Mystic offers nightlife and food. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting 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 Mystic?

Fort Lauderdale is a great place to explore. Don't miss the beaches, as that's what most people do. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

The town of Mystic offers food and shopping. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. 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 Mystic?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Fort Lauderdale. Don't miss the beaches, as that's what most people do. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. Most people come for the beaches. With all of its activities, you can easily fill five days here. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Mystic is a great place to explore. It's also a great beach destination, too. This 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 Mystic?

Many travelers enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping when visiting the scenic destination of Fort Lauderdale. This coastal city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. If you have one week, this is a great place to go. This would be the perfect place to spend one week, as it has just the right amount of activities.

Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Mystic. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. 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 comparing the travel costs between Fort Lauderdale and Mystic, we can see that Mystic 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 Mystic Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Fort Lauderdale or Mystic?

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

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 Mystic in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Fort Lauderdale as well as Mystic. The summer months attract visitors to Fort Lauderdale because of the beaches, snorkeling, and the family-friendly experiences. Additionally, the beaches and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Mystic this time of year.

Fort Lauderdale is a little warmer than Mystic in the summer. The daily temperature in Fort Lauderdale averages around 83°F (28°C) in July, and Mystic fluctuates around 73°F (23°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Mystic. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Fort Lauderdale this time of the year. In the summer, Fort Lauderdale often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Mystic. Fort Lauderdale gets 316 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Mystic receives 293 hours of full sun.

Fort Lauderdale receives a lot of rain in the summer. Fort Lauderdale usually gets more rain in July than Mystic. Fort Lauderdale gets 5.9 inches (149 mm) of rain, while Mystic receives 2.8 inches (72 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Fort Lauderdale or Mystic in the Autumn?

Both Mystic and Fort Lauderdale are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Fort Lauderdale this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Mystic for the shopping scene.

In the autumn, Fort Lauderdale is much warmer than Mystic. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Fort Lauderdale in October average around 78°F (26°C), and Mystic averages at about 53°F (12°C).

It's quite sunny in Mystic. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Fort Lauderdale. Fort Lauderdale usually receives more sunshine than Mystic during autumn. Fort Lauderdale gets 275 hours of sunny skies, while Mystic receives 211 hours of full sun in the autumn.

It's quite rainy in Fort Lauderdale. In October, Fort Lauderdale usually receives more rain than Mystic. Fort Lauderdale gets 5.6 inches (143 mm) of rain, while Mystic receives 3.3 inches (83 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Fort Lauderdale or Mystic in the Winter?

Both Mystic and Fort Lauderdale during the winter are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Fort Lauderdale for the shopping scene and the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Mystic in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Mystic can get quite cold in the winter. In January, Fort Lauderdale is generally much warmer than Mystic. Daily temperatures in Fort Lauderdale average around 67°F (20°C), and Mystic fluctuates around 28°F (-2°C).

It's quite sunny in Fort Lauderdale. In the winter, Fort Lauderdale often gets more sunshine than Mystic. Fort Lauderdale gets 243 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Mystic receives 170 hours of full sun.

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

Should I visit Fort Lauderdale or Mystic in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Fort Lauderdale and Mystic. Many visitors come to Fort Lauderdale in the spring for the beaches and the natural beauty. Also, most visitors come to Mystic for the beaches during these months.

Fort Lauderdale is much warmer than Mystic in the spring. The daily temperature in Fort Lauderdale averages around 75°F (24°C) in April, and Mystic fluctuates around 48°F (9°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Mystic this time of the year. In Fort Lauderdale, it's very sunny this time of the year. Fort Lauderdale usually receives more sunshine than Mystic during spring. Fort Lauderdale gets 300 hours of sunny skies, while Mystic receives 225 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Fort Lauderdale usually receives less rain than Mystic. Fort Lauderdale gets 3.1 inches (78 mm) of rain, while Mystic receives 3.7 inches (94 mm) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Mystic and Fort Lauderdale