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

Should you visit Fort Lauderdale or Seattle?

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 Seattle. 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 spirited, luxury, and high energy coastal city. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. Other popular activities here include shopping, nightlife, and food.

Seattle

Seattle is a progressive, cultural, and outdoorsy city. It's a large city with plenty of activites for visitors as well. It's a gorgeous place to visit. It's also known for museums, theater, and nightlife.

Fort Lauderdale and Seattle: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Fort Lauderdale or Seattle?

You'll generally find more things to do in Seattle than Fort Lauderdale. Seattle is bigger than Fort Lauderdale, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Seattle is better known for its museums, theatre productions, food, music, hiking, and big city activities, while Fort Lauderdale is more popular for its resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and impressive beauty. Fort Lauderdale is more touristy than Seattle and is known for its canals, beaches, walkable waterfront, and luxury resorts. Seattle is well known for its beautiful waterfront setting, diverse culinary scene, thriving art and cultural venues, and being the home of many international tech companies. Also, Seattle is famous for The Space Needle.

How is Fort Lauderdale different from Seattle?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Seattle 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 Seattle. The city's most iconic landmark is the Space Needle. There's also a zoo, aquarium, and a handful of nice museums. Several favorites include the Chihuly Garden and Glass, the Museum of History & Industry, and the Seattle Art Museum.

Fort Lauderdale does not have museums and landmarks.

Is Fort Lauderdale or Seattle Better for Theater?

Seattle is a good destination for theatre. However, Fort Lauderdale is not a theatre destination.

With some theater and performance venues, you might want to see a show in Seattle. There are a handful of theaters where you can enjoy traveling Broadway shows or smaller productions.

Fort Lauderdale is not a theatre destination.

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

Seattle 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, Seattle makes for a great culinary experience. The city has many diverse dining options that make it a popular foodie destination. The seafood is world-class with many restaurants offering fresh caught salmon and oysters. There are also many great Asian restaurants with Pho, sushi, and dim sum all being popular around town. Seattle is also famous as the birthplace of Starbucks coffee, and both chain and independent coffee shops are common. Finally, make sure you check out the donuts at Pike's Place Market.

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 Seattle Better for Nightlife?

It's hard to distinguish whether Fort Lauderdale or Seattle 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 Seattle has something for everybody. The city is known for its breweries and eclectic nightlife scene. There is a thriving theater scene as well as many bars and trendy restaurants. The best neighborhoods for nightlife include Capitol Hill, Belltown, and Downtown.

Is Fort Lauderdale or Seattle Better for Music?

Seattle is a great destination for live music. However, Fort Lauderdale is not a live music destination.

Seattle has become a hotbed of musicians and artists. The city has developed its own music culture around several genres including alternative rock and grunge.

Fort Lauderdale is not a live music destination.

Is Fort Lauderdale or Seattle Better for Resorts?

Fort Lauderdale is renowned for its resorts. However, Seattle is not a resort destination.

Fort Lauderdale offers an unforgettable resort vacation. 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.

Seattle is not a resort destination.

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

Fort Lauderdale is a nice place to visit for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Seattle is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Fort Lauderdale has a few areas where visitors often go scuba diving or snorkeling. 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.

Seattle is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Fort Lauderdale or Seattle Better for Beaches?

Fort Lauderdale is renowned for the beach. Also, Seattle is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its beaches.

The beaches in Fort Lauderdale are among the best in 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.

Plenty of visitors enjoy relaxing on the beach in Seattle. The city is surrounded by water so there are a number of rocky and sandy beaches nearby. Some beaches are more popular with locals while others attract a large amount of tourists. Alki Beach Park, Discovery Park, and Golden Gardens Park are among the best.

Is Fort Lauderdale or Seattle Better for Hiking?

Seattle 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 Seattle. It's famously an outdoorsy city and the hiking will not disappoint. Within a half hour drive of town you'll find beautiful forests and stunning natural beauty. Head into the Cascades, to the coastal rainforests, or around Mount Rainier for all kinds of diverse landscapes. Seattle is well situated for you to experience hiking through the diverse Pacific Northwest landscapes.

Fort Lauderdale is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Fort Lauderdale or Seattle?

Shopping is a popular activity in both Seattle 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 Seattle. Shopping in town has an eclectic mix of high end brands, local vendors, and vintage shops. There are farmers markets as well as the famous Pike Place Market, but also major malls with all of the standard department stores.

Is Fort Lauderdale or Seattle Better for Families?

Fort Lauderdale is notable for its family-friendly activities. Also, Seattle is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

Fort Lauderdale is known to be 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.

Seattle is a family-friendly coastal city. This is an outdoor city with plenty of places where kids can run around and experience nature. There are several good museums as well as outdoor activities, parks, and a zoo. Make sure you check out the Burke Museum of Natural History and Culture, Volunteer Park, and Artists at Play Playground.

Is Fort Lauderdale or Seattle Better for Couples?

Fort Lauderdale is renowned for couples. Also, Seattle is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for romance.

Fort Lauderdale has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. 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.

Seattle is a nice destination for couples. The city has a laid back vibe, a nice downtown area, and plenty of outdoor activities. There are a diversity of restaurants to enjoy and a great nightlife scene that makes for a good couple's getaway.

Is Fort Lauderdale or Seattle Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Seattle is a good destination for backpackers. However, Fort Lauderdale is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

Plenty of backpackers visit Seattle. Although it's not the most popular city for backpackers in America, the city's chill vibe, fun breweries, and lively setting make it a great spot for young backpackers.

Fort Lauderdale is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

Is Fort Lauderdale or Seattle Better for Students?

Seattle is a great destination for students. However, Fort Lauderdale is not popular with students.

Many students visit Seattle. It is a major IT center with a large university, so international students will have plenty of opportunities here. It's also a vibrant city with many outdoor recreational opportunities and a fun nightlife scene.

Fort Lauderdale is not popular with students.

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

Seattle is a good destination for its public transit. However, Fort Lauderdale is a coastal city with minimal options for times when you don't have a car.

You'll find some public transit in Seattle, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There is a light rail system, a monorail, a street car, and buses.

Public transit is mostly limited in Fort Lauderdale. Transportation options include a water taxi and the Sun Trolley Hop-on Bus.

Is Fort Lauderdale or Seattle a more walkable city?

Fort Lauderdale and Seattle both are great 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.

Seattle is a very walkable coastal city. Many neighborhoods are very walkable, particularly in the downtown and major tourist areas.

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

Should I spend more time in Seattle or Fort Lauderdale?

How long in Fort Lauderdale or Seattle?

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

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

One day in Fort Lauderdale or Seattle?

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.

Seattle is a big city with plenty to do. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in 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 Seattle?

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.

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

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.

Seattle is a great place to explore. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. 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 Seattle?

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 live music and food when visiting Seattle. 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 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 Seattle, we can see that Seattle 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 Seattle Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Fort Lauderdale or Seattle?

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

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 Seattle in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Fort Lauderdale and Seattle. Many visitors come to Fort Lauderdale in the summer for the beaches, snorkeling, and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, most visitors come to Seattle for the beaches, the hiking, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In July, Fort Lauderdale is generally a little warmer than Seattle. Daily temperatures in Fort Lauderdale average around 83°F (28°C), and Seattle fluctuates around 67°F (19°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Seattle this time of the year. In Fort Lauderdale, it's very sunny this time of the year. Fort Lauderdale usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Seattle during summer. Fort Lauderdale gets 316 hours of sunny skies, while Seattle receives 313 hours of full sun in the summer.

Fort Lauderdale gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In July, Fort Lauderdale usually receives more rain than Seattle. Fort Lauderdale gets 5.9 inches (149 mm) of rain, while Seattle receives 0.9 inches (22 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Fort Lauderdale or Seattle in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Fort Lauderdale as well as Seattle. Most visitors come to Fort Lauderdale for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area during these months. Additionally, the autumn months attract visitors to Seattle because of the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

Fort Lauderdale is much warmer than Seattle in the autumn. The daily temperature in Fort Lauderdale averages around 78°F (26°C) in October, and Seattle fluctuates around 54°F (12°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Fort Lauderdale this time of the year. In the autumn, Fort Lauderdale often gets more sunshine than Seattle. Fort Lauderdale gets 275 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Seattle receives 143 hours of full sun.

Fort Lauderdale receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Fort Lauderdale usually gets more rain in October than Seattle. Fort Lauderdale gets 5.6 inches (143 mm) of rain, while Seattle receives 3.3 inches (83 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Fort Lauderdale or Seattle in the Winter?

Both Seattle and Fort Lauderdale are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The winter months attract visitors to Fort Lauderdale because of the shopping scene and the cuisine. Also, the museums, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine are the main draw to Seattle this time of year.

In the winter, Fort Lauderdale is much warmer than Seattle. Typically, the winter temperatures in Fort Lauderdale in January average around 67°F (20°C), and Seattle averages at about 42°F (5°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Fort Lauderdale. Fort Lauderdale usually receives more sunshine than Seattle during winter. Fort Lauderdale gets 243 hours of sunny skies, while Seattle receives 67 hours of full sun in the winter.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Seattle. In January, Fort Lauderdale usually receives less rain than Seattle. Fort Lauderdale gets 2.2 inches (55 mm) of rain, while Seattle receives 5.4 inches (136 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Fort Lauderdale or Seattle in the Spring?

Both Seattle and Fort Lauderdale during the spring are popular places to visit. The beaches and the natural beauty are the main draw to Fort Lauderdale this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Seattle for the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty.

In April, Fort Lauderdale is generally much warmer than Seattle. Daily temperatures in Fort Lauderdale average around 75°F (24°C), and Seattle fluctuates around 51°F (11°C).

In Seattle, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Fort Lauderdale. In the spring, Fort Lauderdale often gets more sunshine than Seattle. Fort Lauderdale gets 300 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Seattle receives 212 hours of full sun.

Fort Lauderdale usually gets more rain in April than Seattle. Fort Lauderdale gets 3.1 inches (78 mm) of rain, while Seattle receives 2.5 inches (64 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Seattle and Fort Lauderdale