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

Should you visit Fort Lauderdale or Williamsburg?

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 Williamsburg. 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 high energy, scenic, and bustling coastal city. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. Other popular activities here include food, scuba diving and snorkeling, and beaches.

Williamsburg

Williamsburg is a quaint, well-preserved, and historic town. It's a gorgeous place to visit. It's also known for food, shopping, and museums.

Fort Lauderdale and Williamsburg: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Fort Lauderdale or Williamsburg?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Fort Lauderdale than Williamsburg, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Fort Lauderdale is better known for its nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and impressive beauty, while Williamsburg is more popular for its museums, food, historical sights, and shopping. Fort Lauderdale is more touristy than Williamsburg and is known for its canals, beaches, walkable waterfront, and luxury resorts. Also, Fort Lauderdale is famous for The Local Beaches. Williamsburg is well known for its historic and colonial charm, its award winning amusement parks, and its historical reenactments.

How is Fort Lauderdale different from Williamsburg?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Williamsburg 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 Williamsburg. Colonial Williamsburg is like a living museum with reenactments and historic buildings that date back to the colonial days. In addition to the historic area, there are folk art museums and other historic sights in the area.

Fort Lauderdale does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Williamsburg 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, Williamsburg makes for a great culinary experience. Head to Historic Williamsburg if you want to try some colonial classics. There are historic taverns that maintain their old world charm and serve dishes such as peanut soup and stewed beef. Around town you'll also find casual restaurants with pizza, macaroni and cheese, and burgers.

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 Williamsburg Better for Nightlife?

Fort Lauderdale is a great destination for its evening party scene. However, Williamsburg is a town with minimal options for nightlife.

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.

Williamsburg doesn't have the most active nightlife scene. Despite its student population, there isn't much of a nightlife scene in town. There are restaurants where you can enjoy fine wine or cocktails, but nightclubs and bars are limited.

Is Fort Lauderdale or Williamsburg Better for Resorts?

Fort Lauderdale is a world-class destination for its resorts. However, Williamsburg is not a resort destination.

Vacationers flock to Fort Lauderdale for its luxury resorts. 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.

Williamsburg is not a resort destination.

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

Fort Lauderdale is a good destination for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Williamsburg is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Grab a mask and fins and explore the underwater scenery 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.

Williamsburg is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Fort Lauderdale or Williamsburg Better for Beaches?

Fort Lauderdale is a world-class destination for the beach. However, Williamsburg is not a beach destination.

Fort Lauderdale offers stunning beaches that attract visitors from around 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.

Williamsburg is not a beach destination.

Is Fort Lauderdale or Williamsburg Better for its Old Town?

Williamsburg is a must-visit destination for its historic old town. However, Fort Lauderdale does not have a historic old town.

The rich history of Williamsburg can be explored in its historical center. Colonial Williamsburg is an impressively maintained area with museums, shops, and taverns. There are live reenactments of historic events as well as blacksmiths, wig shops, and carriage rides. You can wander around without a ticket, but for access to many parts of the historic area you'll need to purchase a pass.

Fort Lauderdale does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Fort Lauderdale or Williamsburg?

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

Williamsburg is an extremely popular place for shoppers. Charming shops both in the historic area and just outside sell unique items that reflect the city's past. There are souvenirs, food items, cookbooks, and home decor to choose from.

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 Williamsburg Better for Families?

Williamsburg 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, Williamsburg is very family-friendly. Older kids will appreciate the history in the area. For kids of all ages there are a number of amusement parks and water parks such as Great Wolf Lodge, Busch Gardens, and the award winning Water Country USA.

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 Williamsburg Better for Couples?

Fort Lauderdale is a world-class destination for couples. Also, Williamsburg is still popular, but not quite as popular for romance.

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.

Williamsburg is a great coastal city if you're traveling as a couple. Historic Williamsburg is filled with inns and charming restaurants that make this a beautiful destination for couples. There are quaint restaurants that serve colonial food and interesting southern shops with unique trinkets. You can also wander around the campus of William and Mary College.

Is Fort Lauderdale or Williamsburg Better for Students?

Williamsburg is a must-visit destination for students. However, Fort Lauderdale is not popular with students.

Williamsburg is a very popular place to visit for students. The College of William and Mary has a beautiful campus and students enjoy the charming atmosphere with colonial architecture around town. There are also good restaurants and a great collegiate vibe.

Fort Lauderdale is not popular with students.

Is Fort Lauderdale or Williamsburg 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 Williamsburg.

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 Williamsburg. There are buses around town, and they offer access to Historic Williamsburg, but for most places you'll need to have your own car.

Is Fort Lauderdale or Williamsburg a more walkable city?

Fort Lauderdale is a great destination for its ease of walking around. However, Williamsburg is a town with minimal options 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.

Williamsburg is generally not a very walkable coastal city. Historic Williamsburg and the neighborhoods around the College of William and Mary are all walkable, but if you plan to visit the amusement parks then you'll absolutely need a car.

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

Should I spend more time in Williamsburg or Fort Lauderdale?

How long in Fort Lauderdale or Williamsburg?

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

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

Couples should spend more time in Fort Lauderdale than Williamsburg. 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 Williamsburg 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 Williamsburg.

One day in Fort Lauderdale or Williamsburg?

In Fort Lauderdale, many people enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling that this luxury coastal city offers. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

The charming destination of Williamsburg offers shopping and museums. 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 Williamsburg?

Fort Lauderdale is a fun place to experience. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. Lots of people come for the beaches. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring.

The town of Williamsburg offers museums and food. 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 Williamsburg?

In Fort Lauderdale, many people enjoy the shopping and nightlife that this high energy destination offers. Most people come for the beaches. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Plenty of people spend five days in the area when traveling. Lots of people come for the beaches. So, five days is just the right amount of time to spend here.

Williamsburg is a great place to explore. Visiting the old town is also a must. This town offers something for everyone. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

A week in Fort Lauderdale or Williamsburg?

Fort Lauderdale is a popular place to visit. Many people spend one week here. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then one week is just the right amount of time to spend here. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Many people enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting Williamsburg. 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 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 we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Fort Lauderdale and Williamsburg, we can see that Fort Lauderdale is more expensive. And not only is Williamsburg much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Williamsburg would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Williamsburg 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 Williamsburg.

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 Williamsburg Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Fort Lauderdale or Williamsburg?

Fort Lauderdale has a larger population, and is about 10 times larger than the population of Williamsburg. When comparing the sizes of Fort Lauderdale and Williamsburg, 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 Williamsburg?

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 Williamsburg in the Summer?

Both Williamsburg and Fort Lauderdale are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The summer months attract visitors to Fort Lauderdale because of the beaches, snorkeling, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Williamsburg this time of year.

In July, Fort Lauderdale is generally around the same temperature as Williamsburg. Daily temperatures in Fort Lauderdale average around 83°F (28°C), and Williamsburg fluctuates around 78°F (26°C).

It's quite sunny in Williamsburg. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Fort Lauderdale. Fort Lauderdale usually receives more sunshine than Williamsburg during summer. Fort Lauderdale gets 316 hours of sunny skies, while Williamsburg receives 279 hours of full sun in the summer.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Williamsburg. It's quite rainy in Fort Lauderdale. In July, Fort Lauderdale usually receives more rain than Williamsburg. Fort Lauderdale gets 5.9 inches (149 mm) of rain, while Williamsburg receives 4.7 inches (120 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Fort Lauderdale or Williamsburg in the Autumn?

Both Williamsburg and Fort Lauderdale during the autumn are popular places to visit. The shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Fort Lauderdale this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Williamsburg for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area.

Fort Lauderdale is much warmer than Williamsburg in the autumn. The daily temperature in Fort Lauderdale averages around 78°F (26°C) in October, and Williamsburg fluctuates around 61°F (16°C).

In Williamsburg, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Fort Lauderdale. In the autumn, Fort Lauderdale often gets more sunshine than Williamsburg. Fort Lauderdale gets 275 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Williamsburg receives 211 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Fort Lauderdale. Fort Lauderdale usually gets more rain in October than Williamsburg. Fort Lauderdale gets 5.6 inches (143 mm) of rain, while Williamsburg receives 2.8 inches (71 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Fort Lauderdale or Williamsburg in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Fort Lauderdale and Williamsburg. Many travelers come to Fort Lauderdale for the shopping scene and the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Williamsburg in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Williamsburg can get quite cold in the winter. In the winter, Fort Lauderdale is much warmer than Williamsburg. Typically, the winter temperatures in Fort Lauderdale in January average around 67°F (20°C), and Williamsburg averages at about 38°F (4°C).

In Fort Lauderdale, it's very sunny this time of the year. Fort Lauderdale usually receives more sunshine than Williamsburg during winter. Fort Lauderdale gets 243 hours of sunny skies, while Williamsburg receives 168 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Fort Lauderdale usually receives less rain than Williamsburg. Fort Lauderdale gets 2.2 inches (55 mm) of rain, while Williamsburg receives 3.6 inches (93 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Fort Lauderdale or Williamsburg in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Fort Lauderdale as well as Williamsburg. Many visitors come to Fort Lauderdale in the spring for the beaches and the natural beauty. Also, most visitors come to Williamsburg for the natural beauty during these months.

In April, Fort Lauderdale is generally much warmer than Williamsburg. Daily temperatures in Fort Lauderdale average around 75°F (24°C), and Williamsburg fluctuates around 57°F (14°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Williamsburg. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Fort Lauderdale this time of the year. In the spring, Fort Lauderdale often gets more sunshine than Williamsburg. Fort Lauderdale gets 300 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Williamsburg receives 253 hours of full sun.

Fort Lauderdale usually gets around the same amount of rain in April as Williamsburg. Fort Lauderdale gets 3.1 inches (78 mm) of rain, while Williamsburg receives 3 inches (76 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Williamsburg and Fort Lauderdale