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

Should you visit Fort Lauderdale or Santa Fe?

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 Santa Fe. 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. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the beaches, shopping, and nightlife.

Santa Fe

Santa Fe is a historic, charming, and artsy historic town. It's a gorgeous place to visit. This is a quaint and attractive place to visit, too. It's also known for skiing, live music, and food.

Fort Lauderdale and Santa Fe: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Active nightlife
  • Nice resorts
  • Good scuba and snorkeling destination
  • Popular beach
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to the Local Beaches
Pros
  • Popular for skiing
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Good music scene
  • Scenic old town
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less popular with couples


Is there more to do in Fort Lauderdale or Santa Fe?

You'll generally find more things to do in Fort Lauderdale than Santa Fe. Fort Lauderdale is bigger than Santa Fe, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Fort Lauderdale is better known for its nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and impressive beauty, while Santa Fe is more popular for its skiing, museums, food, music, historical sights, hiking, shopping, and quaint atmosphere. Fort Lauderdale is more touristy than Santa Fe and is popular for its canals, beaches, walkable waterfront, and luxury resorts. Also, Fort Lauderdale is famous for The Local Beaches. Santa Fe is well known for its strong arts scene, its Pueblo-style architecture, and its unique local cuisine.

How is Fort Lauderdale different from Santa Fe?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Fort Lauderdale or Santa Fe Better for Skiing?

Fort Lauderdale
Santa Fe

Santa Fe is a good destination for winter skiing. However, Fort Lauderdale is not a skiing destination.

Santa Fe is a great destination for skiing with plenty areas to explore. There are a few good ski resorts not far from Santa Fe. Popular options include Taos Ski Valley, Ski Santa Fe, Pajarito Mountain Ski Area, and Sipapu Ski and Summer Resort.

Fort Lauderdale is not a skiing destination.


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

Fort Lauderdale
Santa Fe

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

Santa Fe is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. Head to the Museum of New Mexico Complex, which has four museums that give a great overview of the history of the area. Also make sure you visit the Cathedral Basilica of St. Francis of Assisi and the Georgia O'Keeffe Museum.

Fort Lauderdale does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Fort Lauderdale
Santa Fe

Santa Fe is a great destination for its restaurant scene. Also, Fort Lauderdale is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Santa Fe makes for a great culinary experience. There are many local restaurants that use regional ingredients and offer great flavors. There are also cafes and bistros where you can enjoy breakfast or brunch. Local dishes include sopaipillas made with Native American fry bread, slow-cooked beans, and anything made with red and green chili peppers.

Fort Lauderdale has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. 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.

Is Fort Lauderdale or Santa Fe Better for Nightlife?

Fort Lauderdale
Santa Fe

Fort Lauderdale is a great coastal city for its evening party scene. However, Santa Fe is not known 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.

Most people don't head to Santa Fe specifically for the nightlife scene, but you can find a few options. While most of the town quiets down at night, the city has a few areas that stay active late into the night. Live music is popular and diverse. It often includes different genres such as the blues, country, salsa or bluegrass.


Is Fort Lauderdale or Santa Fe Better for Music?

Fort Lauderdale
Santa Fe

Santa Fe 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 Santa Fe. The town has an eclectic music scene that includes a mix of the blues, country, Latin American music, and bluegrass.

Fort Lauderdale is not a live music destination.

Is Fort Lauderdale or Santa Fe Better for Resorts?

Fort Lauderdale
Santa Fe

Fort Lauderdale is an unbeatable place for its luxury resorts. However, Santa Fe 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.

Santa Fe is not a resort destination.

Is Fort Lauderdale or Santa Fe Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Fort Lauderdale
Santa Fe

Fort Lauderdale is very good for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Santa Fe 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.

Santa Fe is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.


Is Fort Lauderdale or Santa Fe Better for Beaches?

Fort Lauderdale
Santa Fe

Fort Lauderdale is an unbeatable place for the beach. However, Santa Fe 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.

Santa Fe is not a beach destination.

Is Fort Lauderdale or Santa Fe Better for its Old Town?

Fort Lauderdale
Santa Fe

Santa Fe is a great destination for its historic old town. However, Fort Lauderdale does not have a historic old town.

There are many historical things to see in the old town of Santa Fe. As the 2nd oldest city in the United States, the old town historic district is filled with charm. The Pueblo-style buildings are brightly colored and there are churches throughout.

Fort Lauderdale does not have a historic old town.

Is Fort Lauderdale or Santa Fe Better for Hiking?

Fort Lauderdale
Santa Fe

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

Santa Fe offers some nice hiking trails. Because it's located right by the Sangre de Cristo Mountains, there are many beautiful hikes right outside of town. Popular trails include the Picacho Peak Trail and the Nambe Lake Trail. Bandelier National also has many places to hike.

Fort Lauderdale is not a hiking destination.


Is the Shopping Better in Fort Lauderdale or Santa Fe?

Fort Lauderdale
Santa Fe

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

Santa Fe is an extremely popular place for shoppers. There are many unique shops and art galleries that feature local artists and craftsmen.

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 Santa Fe Better for Families?

Fort Lauderdale
Santa Fe

Fort Lauderdale is a great coastal city for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Santa Fe is not as popular, but is still a nice historic town 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.

Santa Fe is a family-friendly place to visit. There are a few kids' museums in Santa Fe including the Santa Fe Children's Museum and the Meow Wolf Art Complex. Kids also enjoy the botanical gardens at Museum Hill and Bandelier National Monument just outside of the city.

Is Fort Lauderdale or Santa Fe Better for Couples?

Fort Lauderdale
Santa Fe

Fort Lauderdale is an unbeatable place for couples. Also, Santa Fe is not as popular, but is still a nice historic town for romance.

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.

Santa Fe is a nice destination for couples. There are many romantic inns around town, each with a lot of character. The town also has a lot of atmosphere that makes for a romantic getaway.


Is Fort Lauderdale or Santa Fe Better for Students?

Fort Lauderdale
Santa Fe

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

Santa Fe is popular with students. There are a few colleges and universities in town and students will appreciate the reasonable cost of living and outdoor activities nearby.

Fort Lauderdale is not popular with students.

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

Fort Lauderdale
Santa Fe

You'll find somewhat comparable public transit options in both Fort Lauderdale and Santa Fe.

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 Santa Fe. There is a bus system - the Santa Fe Trails Bus Service.

Is Fort Lauderdale or Santa Fe a more walkable city?

Fort Lauderdale
Santa Fe

Fort Lauderdale and Santa Fe both are high quality when exploring on foot.

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.

Santa Fe is a very walkable coastal city. The historic district is walkable and it's easy to visit most of the tourist sights in this area on foot.


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

Should I spend more time in Santa Fe or Fort Lauderdale?

How long in Fort Lauderdale or Santa Fe?

In either Fort Lauderdale or Santa Fe, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Fort Lauderdale than Santa Fe because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Fort Lauderdale, and 2-5 days is enough time in Santa Fe.

Families should spend more time in Fort Lauderdale than Santa Fe. 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 Santa Fe. 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 Santa Fe 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 Santa Fe.


  • How many days in Fort Lauderdale or Santa Fe? Ideal Length of Stay
    Fort Lauderdale 3-7 
    Santa Fe 2-5

One day in Fort Lauderdale or Santa Fe?

The beautiful coastal city of Fort Lauderdale offers food and scuba diving and snorkeling. Most people come for the beaches. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

The cultural destination of Santa Fe offers live music and food. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. 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 Santa Fe?

Fort Lauderdale is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

The historic town of Santa Fe offers food and shopping. Most visitors spend time around the old town 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 Santa Fe?

Fort Lauderdale is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. It's no surprise that beaches is why people visit. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Fort Lauderdale, five days is sufficent for most. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Santa Fe is a great place to explore. Visiting the old town is also a must. This historic town offers something for everyone. It is common to spend five days here. Five days is often enough time to do most activities.


A week in Fort Lauderdale or Santa Fe?

Fort Lauderdale is a great place to explore. It's no surprise that beaches is why people visit. It is common to spend one week here. It's also a great beach destination, too. One week is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Fort Lauderdale has to offer. This coastal city offers something for everyone.

Many people enjoy the museums and skiing when visiting Santa Fe. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. 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 2-Week Tours from New York City, The Best 2-Week Tours from Anchorage, The Best 2-Week Tours from San Francisco, and The Best 2-Week Tours from Los Angeles.


Which place is cheaper, Santa Fe or Fort Lauderdale?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Fort Lauderdale is $182, while the average daily cost in Santa Fe is $159. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Fort Lauderdale and Santa Fe in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Fort Lauderdale $96
    Santa Fe $81
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Fort Lauderdale $192
    Santa Fe $162
Compare Hotels in Fort Lauderdale and Santa Fe

Looking for a hotel in Fort Lauderdale or Santa Fe? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Fort Lauderdale


Hotels in Santa Fe


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Fort Lauderdale Hotel Prices and Santa Fe Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Fort Lauderdale $51
    Santa Fe $61

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Fort Lauderdale

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Fort Lauderdale:

  • Try find your better than us ! Airport transfer in Fort Lauderdale HTL-APT (FLL): $285
  • Bimini Day Cruise from Fort Lauderdale with Round-Trip Miami Transfer: $259
  • Private transfer from Port of Miami to Fort Lauderdale: $220
  • Transfer to Miami: $200
  • Transfer from Fort Lauderdale to Miami. Private Service.: $199
  • Fort Myers Transfer To Fort Lauderdale Airport (UP TO 14 PASSENG): $192
  • Fort Lauderdale Airport Private Transfer to Port Everglades: $160
  • Private Transfer from Fort Lauderdale Airport (FLL) to Doral : $142
  • Private Transfer from Fort Lauderdale Airport to Miami and Doral : $141
  • Private Transfer from Fort Lauderdale Airport (FLL) to Coral Gables: $135
  • Private Transfer from Fort Lauderdale Airport to Coral Gables: $133
  • Private Transfer from Fort Lauderdale Airport (FLL) to Fort Lauderdale: $131

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Santa Fe

Also for Santa Fe, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Private Arrival Transfer from Santa Fe Airport (SAF): $62
  • Private Departure Transfer to Santa Fe Airport SAF: $125

Is it cheaper to fly into Fort Lauderdale or Santa Fe?

Prices for flights to both Santa Fe and Fort Lauderdale change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    Fort Lauderdale $49
    Santa Fe $43
Typical Food Prices in Fort Lauderdale

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for food and meal costs in Fort Lauderdale:


  • Quick Lunch
    $12

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Fort Lauderdale

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Fort Lauderdale.

  • Downtown Fort Lauderdale Dinner & Drinks Tour: $109
  • Downtown Fort Lauderdale Dinner and Drinks Tour: $114
  • Fort Lauderdale Beach Food Tour: $114

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Santa Fe

For Santa Fe, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Wander NM Food Tour - Tuesday Farmers' Market: $149
  • New Mexican Flavors Food Tour of the Santa Fe Plaza: $184
  • Wander New Mexico Food Tour - Railyard Arts District: $189
  • Wander New Mexico Food Tour - Downtown Plaza 'Sip & Savor': $209
  • Downtown Plaza "Sip and Savor" Half-day Food Tour: $209
  • Savor Wine Pairing Dinner: $228

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Fort Lauderdale $15
    Santa Fe $17

Tours and Activities in Fort Lauderdale

Here are a few actual costs in Fort Lauderdale for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • 1-Hour Interactive Pirate Cruise in Ft. Lauderdale (arrive 30 minutes early): $25
  • 4 Hour Waterway and Sandbar Cruise: $803
  • 60 min Guided Electric Bike Tour of Fort Lauderdale.: $79
  • 90-Minute Parasailing Adventure in Fort Lauderdale : $80
  • 90-Minute Snorkel & Seabob Underwater Guided Reef Tour in Fort Lauderdale: $150
  • Air Boat Tour of Palm Beach in The Swamp Monster: $150
  • Best of Fort Lauderdale Small Group Tour with Intercoastal Cruise: $199
  • Carrie B Cruises! Beautiful and Fun THE VENICE OF AMERICA TOUR!!!: $32
  • Champagne Sunset Cruise in Ft. Lauderdale: $89
  • Chocolate and Dessert Tasting Tour in Fort Lauderdale Florida: $40
  • Day Trip To Freeport, Grand Bahama - Tickets only: $255
  • Evening Boat Cruise through Downtown Ft. Lauderdale: $60

Tours and Activities in Santa Fe

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Santa Fe.

  • The Town Too High To Die: A Self-Guided Audio Tour in New Mexico: $5.13
  • Historic Downtown Self-Guided Audio Walking Tour: $6.75
  • Santa Fe Historic Downtown Smart Phone Audio App Self Guided GPS Walking Tour : $7.75
  • Santa Fe's Historic Gems: A Self-Guided Walking Tour: $8.99
  • Unique Scavenger Hunt Experience in Santa Fe by Crazy Dash: $10
  • Scavenger Hunt Adventure in Santa Fe by Operation City Quest: $10
  • Murder Mystery Detective Experience Santa Fe, NM: $15
  • Self-Guided Walking Audio Tour of Historic Santa Fe: $15
  • Santa Fe Scavenger Hunt Adventure: $21
  • Santa Fe Puzzling Adventure: $35
  • Adventurers Ready To Jump Into the Void Santa Fe Style Wanted: $39
  • Santa Fe Scavenger Hunt Walking Tour and Game: $49

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Fort Lauderdale $33
    Santa Fe $9.68
Typical Alcohol Prices in Fort Lauderdale

Some typical examples of the costs for nightlife and alcohol in Fort Lauderdale are as follows:


  • Beer
    $7.30

Sample the Local Flavors in Fort Lauderdale

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Fort Lauderdale:

  • Ft Lauderdale Ghosts Boos and Booze Haunted Pub Crawl: $37
  • Guided Happy Hour Bar Crawl by Beer Bike: $64
  • Pedibus Pub Crawl in Fort Lauderdale: $74
  • Party Bike Bar Crawl: $74

Sample the Local Flavors in Santa Fe

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Santa Fe:

  • Tumbleroot Brewery and Distillery Tour and Tasting: $18


When comparing the travel costs between Fort Lauderdale and Santa Fe, we can see that Fort Lauderdale 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 Santa Fe Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Fort Lauderdale or Santa Fe?

Fort Lauderdale has a larger population, and is about 2 times larger than the population of Santa Fe. When comparing the sizes of Fort Lauderdale and Santa Fe, 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.