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

Should you visit Fort Lauderdale or Phoenix?

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 Phoenix. 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 luxury, high energy, and scenic coastal city. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the nightlife, food, and scuba diving and snorkeling.

Phoenix

Phoenix is a sprawling, desert, and laid back city. It's also known for food, hiking, and shopping.

Fort Lauderdale and Phoenix: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Fort Lauderdale or Phoenix?

Travelers will generally find more things to do in Fort Lauderdale than Phoenix. While Phoenix 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 Phoenix is more popular for its museums and hiking. Fort Lauderdale is more touristy than Phoenix and is popular for its canals, beaches, walkable waterfront, and luxury resorts. Also, Fort Lauderdale is famous for The Local Beaches. Phoenix is well known for its desert landscapes, high number of golf courses, and year round warm weather.

How is Fort Lauderdale different from Phoenix?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Phoenix is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. You'll find art, science, and cultural museums around town. Favorites include the Heard Museum, the Phoenix Art Museum, S'edav Va'aki Museum, and the Arizona Science Museum.

Fort Lauderdale does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Both Fort Lauderdale and Phoenix 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.

Phoenix has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. There are many mom-and-pop shops around town that serve everything from casual meals to quality steaks. There's also a huge selection of Mexican restaurants, as well as other international options such as sushi, dim sum, and Italian.

Is Fort Lauderdale or Phoenix Better for Nightlife?

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

The nightlife in Fort Lauderdale has something for everybody. 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 Phoenix. The best nightlife scene is found in downtown and central Phoenix. There are bars, restaurants, and venues where you can catch a show. North Phoenix also has grown into a popular evening spot with cocktail bars and pubs.

Is Fort Lauderdale or Phoenix Better for Resorts?

Fort Lauderdale is an unbeatable place for its luxury resorts. However, Phoenix is not a resort destination.

Fort Lauderdale is a world class resort vacation destination. 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.

Phoenix is not a resort destination.

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

Fort Lauderdale is a coastal city with good options for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Phoenix is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

It's fun to get in the water and check out the local marine life 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.

Phoenix is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Fort Lauderdale or Phoenix Better for Beaches?

Fort Lauderdale is an unbeatable place for the beach. However, Phoenix is not a beach destination.

Fort Lauderdale is considered to be a world-class beach 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.

Phoenix is not a beach destination.

Is Fort Lauderdale or Phoenix Better for Hiking?

Phoenix is a good destination for its hiking experiences. However, Fort Lauderdale is not a hiking destination.

Phoenix offers some nice hiking trails. You don't have to head far out of town for impressive hiking opportunities. You'll find trails that range from easy to challenging, and many pass through other-worldly landscapes. You'll find popular trails in Usery Mountain Regional Park, Papago Park, White Tank Mountain Regional Park, South Mountain Park and many others.

Fort Lauderdale is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Fort Lauderdale or Phoenix?

Shopping is a popular activity in both Phoenix 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 Phoenix. There are plenty of shopping centers, outlets, and malls where you'll find the standard chain stores. You'll also find farmer's markets around town.

Is Fort Lauderdale or Phoenix Better for Families?

Fort Lauderdale is a great coastal city for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Phoenix 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.

Phoenix is a family-friendly place to visit. Kids will love the Phoenix Zoo, the Arizona Science Center, the SEA LIFE Arizona Aquarium, and the Bearizona Wildlife Park. There's also a number of parks and gardens as well as a children's museum and several other interactive museums for kids.

Is Fort Lauderdale or Phoenix Better for Couples?

Fort Lauderdale is an unbeatable place for couples. Also, Phoenix is not as popular, but is still a nice city for romance.

Fort Lauderdale is a great coastal city for couples, as it 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.

Phoenix is a nice destination for couples. There are many parks and gardens in town as well as beautiful hikes and outdoor activities that couples will enjoy. In the evening, there's theater, shows, and many romantic restaurants.

Is Fort Lauderdale or Phoenix 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 Phoenix.

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 Phoenix. There's a bus and light rail system, but you really need your own vehicle to get around.

Is Fort Lauderdale or Phoenix a more walkable city?

Fort Lauderdale is a great coastal city for its ease of walking around. However, Phoenix is not known 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.

Phoenix is generally not very walkable. It's a sprawling city and the only real area that's walkable is the downtown.

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

Should I spend more time in Phoenix or Fort Lauderdale?

How long in Fort Lauderdale or Phoenix?

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

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

One day in Fort Lauderdale or Phoenix?

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.

The laid back destination of Phoenix 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 Phoenix?

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.

The city of Phoenix 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 Phoenix?

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.

Phoenix 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 Phoenix?

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

Which is Bigger, Fort Lauderdale or Phoenix?

Phoenix has a larger population, and is about 8 times larger than the population of Fort Lauderdale. When comparing the sizes of Fort Lauderdale and Phoenix, 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 Phoenix?

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 Phoenix in the Summer?

Both Phoenix and Fort Lauderdale during the summer are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Fort Lauderdale for the beaches, snorkeling, and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Phoenix because of the hiking and the family-friendly experiences.

It's very hot in Phoenix this time of the year. In July, Fort Lauderdale is generally cooler than Phoenix. Daily temperatures in Fort Lauderdale average around 83°F (28°C), and Phoenix fluctuates around 98°F (36°C).

In Phoenix, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Fort Lauderdale. In the summer, Fort Lauderdale often gets less sunshine than Phoenix. Fort Lauderdale gets 316 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Phoenix receives 380 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Fort Lauderdale. Fort Lauderdale usually gets more rain in July than Phoenix. Fort Lauderdale gets 5.9 inches (149 mm) of rain, while Phoenix receives 0.8 inches (21 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Fort Lauderdale or Phoenix in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Fort Lauderdale and Phoenix. The autumn months attract visitors to Fort Lauderdale because of the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area. Also, the hiking trails and the shopping scene are the main draw to Phoenix this time of year.

Fort Lauderdale is around the same temperature as Phoenix in the autumn. The daily temperature in Fort Lauderdale averages around 78°F (26°C) in October, and Phoenix fluctuates around 79°F (26°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Phoenix this time of the year. In Fort Lauderdale, it's very sunny this time of the year. Fort Lauderdale usually receives less sunshine than Phoenix during autumn. Fort Lauderdale gets 275 hours of sunny skies, while Phoenix receives 305 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 Phoenix. Fort Lauderdale gets 5.6 inches (143 mm) of rain, while Phoenix receives 0.7 inches (17 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Fort Lauderdale or Phoenix in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Fort Lauderdale as well as Phoenix. The shopping scene and the cuisine are the main draw to Fort Lauderdale this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Phoenix for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

In the winter, Fort Lauderdale is a little warmer than Phoenix. Typically, the winter temperatures in Fort Lauderdale in January average around 67°F (20°C), and Phoenix averages at about 58°F (14°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Phoenix. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Fort Lauderdale this time of the year. In the winter, Fort Lauderdale often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Phoenix. Fort Lauderdale gets 243 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Phoenix receives 254 hours of full sun.

Fort Lauderdale usually gets more rain in January than Phoenix. Fort Lauderdale gets 2.2 inches (55 mm) of rain, while Phoenix receives 0.7 inches (17 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Fort Lauderdale or Phoenix in the Spring?

Both Phoenix and Fort Lauderdale are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Fort Lauderdale for the beaches and the natural beauty.

In April, Fort Lauderdale is generally around the same temperature as Phoenix. Daily temperatures in Fort Lauderdale average around 75°F (24°C), and Phoenix fluctuates around 74°F (23°C).

It's quite sunny in Phoenix. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Fort Lauderdale. Fort Lauderdale usually receives less sunshine than Phoenix during spring. Fort Lauderdale gets 300 hours of sunny skies, while Phoenix receives 355 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Fort Lauderdale usually receives more rain than Phoenix. Fort Lauderdale gets 3.1 inches (78 mm) of rain, while Phoenix receives 0.2 inches (6 mm) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Phoenix and Fort Lauderdale