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

Should you visit Fort Lauderdale or Rapid City?

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 Rapid City. 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. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Visitors also love the beaches, shopping, and nightlife.

Rapid City

Rapid City is a fascinating, activity-filled, and friendly city. It's also known for shopping, museums, and food.

Fort Lauderdale and Rapid City: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Fort Lauderdale or Rapid City?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Fort Lauderdale than Rapid City. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Fort Lauderdale is very popular for its nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and impressive beauty, while Rapid City attracts visitors for its museums and hiking. Fort Lauderdale is more touristy than Rapid City and is popular for its canals, beaches, walkable waterfront, and luxury resorts. It is also well known for The Local Beaches. Rapid City is famous for its proximity to Mount Rushmore and many other iconic parks.

How is Fort Lauderdale different from Rapid City?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Rapid City is a must-visit destination for its museums and landmarks. However, Fort Lauderdale does not have museums and landmarks.

Visitors will find world class museums and historical sights in Rapid City that are not to be missed. You'll find a wide variety of museums and landmarks nearby. Popular places to visit that aren't far from town include the Mammoth Site of Hot Springs, the South Dakota Air & Space Museum, and the Journey Museum & Learning Center. There's also the Museum of Geology and the National Presidential Wax Museum. And of course, there's the iconic Mount Rushmore.

Fort Lauderdale does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Both Fort Lauderdale and Rapid City 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.

Rapid City has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. You'll find local restaurants in town that serve local specialties such as chislic (grilled meat), fry bread, and walleye (a local fish.

Is Fort Lauderdale or Rapid City Better for Nightlife?

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

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.

Rapid City is generally a quiet destination but there are options around. You'll find some places with live music and good drinks, but the city isn't really known for its nightlife scene.

Is Fort Lauderdale or Rapid City Better for Resorts?

Fort Lauderdale is an unbeatable place for its luxury resorts. However, Rapid City 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.

Rapid City is not a resort destination.

Is Fort Lauderdale or Rapid City Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Fort Lauderdale is very good for its diving and snorkeling. However, Rapid City 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.

Rapid City is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Fort Lauderdale or Rapid City Better for Beaches?

Fort Lauderdale is an unbeatable place for the beache. However, Rapid City 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.

Rapid City is not a beach destination.

Is Fort Lauderdale or Rapid City Better for Hiking?

Rapid City 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 Rapid City. The region is filled with national parks, state parks, and natural areas with wonderful hiking trails. You don't have to travel far to get into nature and experience some of South Dakota's best natural beauty.

Fort Lauderdale is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Fort Lauderdale or Rapid City?

Shopping is a popular activity in both Rapid City 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 Rapid City. Rapid City has some interesting local shops as well as larger malls and shopping centers.

Is Fort Lauderdale or Rapid City Better for Families?

Rapid City is a must-visit destination for its family-friendly activities. Also, Fort Lauderdale is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

With a huge array of activities for kids, Rapid City is very family-friendly. Nearby national parks and outdoor activities, this is the perfect base for exploring the area with kids. Nearby you'll find the Big Thunder Gold Mine, which has tours and lets you pan for gold, and Custer State Park, which is filled with wildlife. Wall Drug is worth a stopoff, as is Dinosaur Park.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Fort Lauderdale is very family-friendly. 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.

Is Fort Lauderdale or Rapid City Better for Couples?

Fort Lauderdale is an unbeatable place for its romantic activities. Also, Rapid City is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for couples.

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.

Couples visit Rapid City frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. Couples will enjoy the amazing national parks in the area and the easy access to iconic landmarks like Mount Rushmore. There are many opportunities for wildlife spotting as well as great hiking trails and unique landscapes.

Is Fort Lauderdale or Rapid City Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

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

Backpackers come from all over to visit Rapid City. Backpackers will appreciate the surrounding natural beauty and the nearby national parks.

Fort Lauderdale is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

Is Fort Lauderdale or Rapid City 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 Rapid City.

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 Rapid City. While there are a few buses, this isn't a realistic option for traveling through the region.

Is Fort Lauderdale or Rapid City a more walkable city?

Fort Lauderdale is a very popular place for its high level of walkability. However, Rapid City is lacking in good options 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.

Rapid City is generally not very walkable. While the downtown is walkable, most visitors use the city as a base for exploring the surrounding areas, and this requires a car.

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

Should I spend more time in Rapid City or Fort Lauderdale?

How long in Fort Lauderdale or Rapid City?

It's fun to spend time in either Fort Lauderdale or Rapid City. 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 Rapid City.

Families should spend more time in Rapid City than Fort Lauderdale. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Rapid City, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Couples should spend more time in Fort Lauderdale than Rapid City. 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 Rapid City 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 Rapid City.

One day in Fort Lauderdale or Rapid City?

With shopping and nightlife around the luxury coastal city of Fort Lauderdale, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. One of the main draws to the area is the beaches. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

The friendly destination of Rapid City offers shopping and museums. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. It's no surprise that museums is why people visit. 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 Rapid City?

With nightlife and food around the destination of Fort Lauderdale, there's plenty to do. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. It offers something for everyone. One of the main draws to the area is the beaches. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything.

The city of Rapid City offers museums and food. 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 Rapid City?

Fort Lauderdale, a popular coastal city, is full of activities for travelers. This is a popular place to visit for five days. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. In five days, you should have a good grasp of this coastal city. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Rapid City is a great place to explore. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. It's no surprise that museums is why people visit. 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 Rapid City?

Fort Lauderdale is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have one week, this coastal city makes for a great vacation. One of the main draws to the area is the beaches. One week should give you a good understanding of everything this coastal city has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Many people enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting Rapid City. 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 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 Rapid City, we can see that Fort Lauderdale is more expensive. And not only is Rapid City much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Rapid City would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Rapid City 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 Fort Lauderdale would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Fort Lauderdale than you might in Rapid City.

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 Rapid City Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Fort Lauderdale or Rapid City?

Fort Lauderdale has a larger population, and is about 3 times larger than the population of Rapid City. When comparing the sizes of Fort Lauderdale and Rapid City, 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.