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

Should you visit Fort Lauderdale or Sedona?

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 Sedona. 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 scenic, bustling, and spirited coastal city. The beauty of Fort Lauderdale is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Visitors also love the scuba diving and snorkeling, beaches, and shopping. See Fort Lauderdale travel costs.

Sedona

Sedona is a scenic, striking, and desert town. As this is a charming small town, visitors also come to explore the sights and local activities. The famous beauty of Sedona is one of the main draws. It's also known for food, hiking, and shopping. See Sedona travel costs.

Fort Lauderdale and Sedona: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Active nightlife
  • Good scuba and snorkeling destination
  • Popular beach
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to the Local Beaches
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for shopping
  • Less popular with backpackers
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Scenic old town
  • Good for hiking
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Small town charm
  • Impressive beauty


Is there more to do in Fort Lauderdale or Sedona?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Fort Lauderdale. Although Fort Lauderdale and Sedona are popular destinations, Fort Lauderdale has more sights and attractions for tourists. Fort Lauderdale is very popular for its nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, and beaches, while Sedona attracts visitors for its museums and attractions, historical sights, hiking, shopping, small town charm, and impressive beauty. Fort Lauderdale is more touristy than Sedona and is popular for its canals, beaches, walkable waterfront, and luxury resorts. It is also well known for The Local Beaches. Sedona is famous for its stargazing, desert setting, and yoga retreats.

How is Fort Lauderdale different from Sedona?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Fort Lauderdale
Sedona

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

Sedona is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. The Sedona Heritage Museum offers a glimpse into the history and culture of the area. There are also many galleries around town.

Fort Lauderdale does not have museums and landmarks.


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

Fort Lauderdale
Sedona

Both Fort Lauderdale and Sedona offer a number of superb restaurants to choose from.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Fort Lauderdale makes for a great culinary experience. 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.

Sedona has a huge number of terrific restaurants. It's grown into a foodie destination with local restaurants that pride themselves on using local ingredients. Mexican food is common but you'll also find cafes, classic American food, and other international options.

Is Fort Lauderdale or Sedona Better for Nightlife?

Fort Lauderdale
Sedona

Fort Lauderdale is great for nightlife and partying. Also, Sedona is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its evening party scene.

Many people head to Fort Lauderdale for the nightlife scene. 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 Sedona. There are bars, live music venues, and even a casino in town. Breweries are popular and there are also upscale wine bars.

Is Fort Lauderdale or Sedona Better for Resorts?

Fort Lauderdale
Sedona

Fort Lauderdale is an unbeatable place for its luxury resorts. Also, Sedona is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its resorts.

For the ultimate resort vacation, Fort Lauderdale is a great 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.

Vacationers can choose from a number of terrific resorts in Sedona. Upscale resorts with spas, pools, and other amenities offer the perfect backdrop for a desert vacation.


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

Fort Lauderdale
Sedona

Fort Lauderdale is a popular place for its diving and snorkeling. However, Sedona is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Fort Lauderdale has a few good snorkeling spots. 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.

Sedona is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Fort Lauderdale or Sedona Better for Beaches?

Fort Lauderdale
Sedona

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

Travelers come from around the world to visit the beaches in Fort Lauderdale. 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.

Sedona is not a beach destination.

Is Fort Lauderdale or Sedona Better for its Old Town?

Fort Lauderdale
Sedona

Sedona is a good destination for its historic old town. However, Fort Lauderdale does not have a historic old town.

Many visitors go to Sedona to see the historical old town. Traditional architecture and historic charm give downtown Sedona a lot of character.

Fort Lauderdale does not have a historic old town.


Is Fort Lauderdale or Sedona Better for Hiking?

Fort Lauderdale
Sedona

Sedona 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 Sedona. It's red rock cliffs offer the perfect setting for dramatic hikes and breathtaking views. The colors are most impressive at sunrise and sunset and some of the most famous landmarks include Airport Mesa, Cathedral Rock, Bell Rock and Boynton Canyon.

Fort Lauderdale is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Fort Lauderdale or Sedona?

Fort Lauderdale
Sedona

Sedona is a must-visit destination for shopping. Also, Fort Lauderdale is still popular, but not quite as popular for its shopping opportunities.

Sedona is a famous shopping destination with plenty of stores. It's filled with local artisan shops and art galleries that highlight the region's beauty. Head to Uptown Sedona for some of the best boutiques. You should also check out the Tlaquepaque Arts and Crafts Village, the Sedona Art Center, and Hozho Distinctive Shops and Galleries.

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 Sedona More Beautiful?

Fort Lauderdale
Sedona

Sedona is a must-visit destination for its scenery and beauty. Also, Fort Lauderdale is still popular, but not quite as popular for its scenery and beauty.

The famous beauty of Sedona is one of the main draws. The surrounded countryside is filled with dramatic desert landscapes and striking red cliffs.

The beauty of Fort Lauderdale is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Seven miles of scenic coastline with a boardwalk to explore make this a beautiful Florida beach destination.


Is Fort Lauderdale or Sedona Better for Families?

Fort Lauderdale
Sedona

Both Fort Lauderdale and Sedona are superb 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, Sedona is very family-friendly. There are impressive parks and fun outdoor activities for the whole family. Head to Slide Rock State Park where your kids can enjoy a natural waterslide. There's also the Out of Africa Wildlife Zoo as well as a canyon railroad.

Is Fort Lauderdale or Sedona Better for Couples?

Fort Lauderdale
Sedona

Fort Lauderdale and Sedona both amazing destinations for a couple.

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.

Sedona makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. Stargazing in the evening or picnicking in a park during the day. There are countless romantic activities that couples can enjoy. The area is filled with striking natural beauty that is at its best during sunset. Couples will also enjoy fine dining and a variety of outdoor activities.

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

Fort Lauderdale
Sedona

Sedona is a good destination for backpackers. However, Fort Lauderdale is a coastal city with minimal options for backpackers and budget travelers.

Plenty of backpackers visit Sedona. You'll find campgrounds, RV parks, and motels in the area, but no real hostels.

Fort Lauderdale is not the best destination for backpackers and budget travelers due to its high prices. You'll find few backpackers heading to the high end city.


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

Fort Lauderdale
Sedona

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

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 Sedona. Verde Shuttle offers shuttle routes through town.

Is Fort Lauderdale or Sedona a more walkable city?

Fort Lauderdale
Sedona

Fort Lauderdale is great for its high level of walkability. Also, Sedona is not as popular, but is still a nice town 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.

Sedona is a somewhat walkable coastal city. If you stay in Uptown Sedona, then the area is walkable, but if you're planning to stay further away then you'll need to have a car.

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

Should I spend more time in Sedona or Fort Lauderdale?

How long in Fort Lauderdale or Sedona?

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

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


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

One day in Fort Lauderdale or Sedona?

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.

Sedona is a small town with plenty to do. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. It's no surprise that shopping 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 Sedona?

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.

Sedona might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

Five days in Fort Lauderdale or Sedona?

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.

Sedona is a great place to explore. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. It's no surprise that shopping is why people visit. This 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 Sedona?

Many travelers enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping when visiting the spirited 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.

Since Sedona is a small town, it's easily explored when your time is limited. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. 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, Sedona or Fort Lauderdale?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations. These travel costs come from the actual spending of real travelers.

  • Fort Lauderdale Prices
    USA Prices
    Sedona Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Fort Lauderdale $218
    Sedona $200

The average daily cost (per person) in Fort Lauderdale is $218, while the average daily cost in Sedona is $200. 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 Sedona in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Fort Lauderdale $96
    Sedona $93
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Fort Lauderdale $192
    Sedona $186
Compare Hotels in Fort Lauderdale and Sedona

Looking for a hotel in Fort Lauderdale or Sedona? 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 Sedona


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 Sedona Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Fort Lauderdale $51
    Sedona $40

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Fort Lauderdale

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Fort Lauderdale:

  • Private Transfer from Fort Lauderdale Airport to Key Largo: $290
  • Bimini Day Cruise from Fort Lauderdale with Round-Trip Miami Transfer: $289
  • Private Transfer from Fort Lauderdale Airport to Islamorada : $289
  • Private transfer from Port of Miami to Fort Lauderdale: $220
  • Transfer from Fort Lauderdale (FLL or Port Everglades) to Miami.: $220
  • Transfer to Miami: $200
  • Fort Lauderdale Airport (FLL) to Port Everglades - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $181
  • Fort Lauderdale Airport (FLL) to Boca Raton - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $179
  • Fort Lauderdale Airport(FLL) to Key Largo/ Marathon -Roundtrip Private Transfer: $178
  • Arrival Private Transfer: Airport FLL to Fort Lauderdale in Luxury Car: $167
  • Private Transfer from Fort Lauderdale Airport (FLL) to Doral : $155
  • Departure Private Transfer: Fort Lauderdale to Airport FLL in Luxury Van: $155

Is it cheaper to fly into Fort Lauderdale or Sedona?

Prices for flights to both Sedona 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 $85
    Sedona $83
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.

  • Fort Lauderdale Intracoastal & Dinner Cruise: $64
  • Immersive Sushi Cooking Class in Fort Lauderdale: $75
  • All You Can Eat BBQ Dinner and Show at Tropical Isle with Sightseeing Cruise: $80
  • Hollywood Florida Walking Food Tour : $109
  • Atlantic Village Walking Food Tour: $109
  • Downtown Fort Lauderdale Dinner & Drinks Tour: $109
  • Downtown Fort Lauderdale Dinner and Drinks Tour: $114
  • Fort Lauderdale Beach Food Tour: $114
  • Fort Lauderdale Historic District Food Tour Experience: $120
  • Hollywood Beach Walking Food Tour: $139
  • Haitian Cooking Class: $190

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Sedona

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

  • The VIP Experience, Chuck Wagon Dinner and Show Tickets: $135
  • Sedona/Flagstaff: Grand Canyon Day Trip with Dinner & Sunset: $252

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Fort Lauderdale $15
    Sedona $19

Tours and Activities in Fort Lauderdale

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

  • Fort Lauderdale SUV To and From Miami Cruise Port: $70
  • 1 Hour-Relaxing Private Boat Tour - Fort Lauderdale (Up to 6 Pax): $150
  • 1-Hour Interactive Pirate Cruise (arrive 30 minutes early): $35
  • 2 Hours Electric Bike Experience on Ft Lauderdale: $50
  • 2 to 6 hours Private Yacht Cruise around Fort Lauderdale: $299
  • 90-Minute Ocean Parasailing Adventure In Fort Lauderdale, FL: $100
  • 90-Minute Snorkel & Seabob Underwater Guided Reef Tour in Fort Lauderdale: $214
  • Air Boat Tour of Palm Beach in The Swamp Monster: $150
  • Atlantic Ocean Snorkeling Experience: $79
  • Beach Snorkeling Adventure in Lauderdale by the Sea: $45
  • Best of Fort Lauderdale Small Group Tour with Intercoastal Cruise: $199
  • Comedy Segway Tour Music Edition: $85

Typical Entertainment Prices in Sedona

For Sedona, here are some examples of average entertainment and activity prices from previous travelers:


  • Red Rock Fantasy Light Show (for 2)
    $10

Tours and Activities in Sedona

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

  • Grand Canyon and Sedona Self-Guided Driving Tour Bundle: $22
  • From Boynton Canyon Trolley Tour: $28
  • Private car tour in Sedona and Verde Valley experience: $30
  • Jerome Puzzling Adventure: $35
  • Out of Africa Wildlife Park Admission Ticket: $43
  • Cemetery Ghost Adventure Cottonwood, Az: $45
  • Hi-Points Van Tour: $50
  • Sightseeing Highlights Tour of Sedona: $63
  • The Magic of Sedona Highlights Tour: $63
  • Sedona Sightseeing Tour: $69
  • Jerome Ghost Adventure: Shuttle Tour using Ghost Hunting Equipment: $70
  • Scenic Sedona Tour: $76

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Fort Lauderdale $33
    Sedona $13
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: Boos and Booze Haunted Pub Crawl: $30
  • Ft Lauderdale Ghosts Boos and Booze Haunted Pub Crawl: $36
  • Pedibus Pub Crawl in Fort Lauderdale: $74

Sample the Local Flavors in Sedona

Also in Sedona, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • Bliss - Sedona’s Most Luxurious Wine Tour - Lunch Included!: $115
  • Experience E-Bike with Wine Tasting Activity: $126
  • Wine Tasting With A Touch of Sedona Magic: $159
  • Sedona-Jerome Scenic Vortex, Wine Tasting Grand Tour. See It All!: $199
  • Grape Train Escape: Wine Tasting and Verde Canyon Railroad Adventure: $208
  • Voted Best in Sedona-Cheapest Private Wine Tour in town!: $210
  • Private Wine Tour in Sedona, Arizona: $275
  • Private Wine Tour, Voted best in town, Tastings Included!: $285


When comparing the travel costs between Fort Lauderdale and Sedona, 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 Sedona Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Fort Lauderdale or Sedona?

Fort Lauderdale has a larger population, and is about 20 times larger than the population of Sedona. When comparing the sizes of Fort Lauderdale and Sedona, 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.