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

Should you visit Fort Lauderdale or Winston-Salem?

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 Winston-Salem. 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. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. Other popular activities here include scuba diving and snorkeling, beaches, and shopping.

Winston-Salem

Winston-Salem is a under-rated, welcoming, and friendly city. It's also known for shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Fort Lauderdale and Winston-Salem: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Fort Lauderdale or Winston-Salem?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Fort Lauderdale than Winston-Salem, 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 Winston-Salem is more popular for its museums and historical sights. Fort Lauderdale is more touristy than Winston-Salem and is known for its canals, beaches, walkable waterfront, and luxury resorts. Also, Fort Lauderdale is famous for The Local Beaches. Winston-Salem is well known for it's southern character and quaint college campuses.

How is Fort Lauderdale different from Winston-Salem?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Winston-Salem 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 Winston-Salem?

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

Winston-Salem is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. Old Salem has a nice concentration of museums and gardens. Outside of the old town you'll find several art museums like the Museum of Early Southern Decorative Arts and the Reynolda House Museum of American Art.

Fort Lauderdale does not have museums and landmarks.

Is the Food Better in Fort Lauderdale or Winston-Salem? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Both Fort Lauderdale and Winston-Salem offer a number of notable 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.

Winston-Salem has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. North Carolina barbecue is popular around town. The city is also the birthplace of Krispy Kreme donuts and during the holiday season you should sample the local Moravian Cookies.

Is Fort Lauderdale or Winston-Salem Better for Nightlife?

Fort Lauderdale is notable for its evening party scene. Also, Winston-Salem is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for nightlife.

Fort Lauderdale has plenty to do after the sun goes down. 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.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Winston-Salem. Local breweries are popping up around town. You'll also find active nightlife venues near the colleges and universities.

Is Fort Lauderdale or Winston-Salem Better for Resorts?

Fort Lauderdale is renowned for its resorts. However, Winston-Salem is not a resort destination.

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.

Winston-Salem is not a resort destination.

Is Fort Lauderdale or Winston-Salem Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Fort Lauderdale is a popular place for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Winston-Salem 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.

Winston-Salem is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Fort Lauderdale or Winston-Salem Better for Beaches?

Fort Lauderdale is renowned for the beach. However, Winston-Salem 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.

Winston-Salem is not a beach destination.

Is Fort Lauderdale or Winston-Salem Better for its Old Town?

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

Many visitors go to Winston-Salem to see the historical old town. Nearby Old Salem is filled with historic museums, gardens, and restaurants. A ticket is required for most of the venues, but the atmosphere and architecture are charming.

Fort Lauderdale does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Fort Lauderdale or Winston-Salem?

Shopping is a popular activity in both Winston-Salem 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 Winston-Salem. You'll find a mix of larger shopping malls, retail outlets, and shopping centers around town.

Is Fort Lauderdale or Winston-Salem Better for Families?

Fort Lauderdale is notable for its family-friendly activities. Also, Winston-Salem 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.

Winston-Salem is a family-friendly coastal city. There are interactive museums like the Kaleideum science museums. There are also outdoor parks and playgrounds, kid-friendly restaurants, and a children's theater.

Is Fort Lauderdale or Winston-Salem Better for Couples?

Fort Lauderdale is renowned for couples. However, Winston-Salem is a mediocre city for romance.

Fort Lauderdale makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. 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.

Winston-Salem is not the best destination for a couple to visit. There are restaurants and movie theaters that make for a nice date night. There are also parks and walks that will get you outdoors.

Is Fort Lauderdale or Winston-Salem Better for Students?

Winston-Salem is a good destination for students. However, Fort Lauderdale is not popular with students.

Winston-Salem is popular with students. Wake Forest University as well as colleges such as Salem College give parts of the city a collegiate vibe.

Fort Lauderdale is not popular with students.

Is Fort Lauderdale or Winston-Salem 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 Winston-Salem.

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 Winston-Salem. There are bus routes, but they are limited in their frequency and convenience, making a car essential for most visitors.

Is Fort Lauderdale or Winston-Salem a more walkable city?

Fort Lauderdale is notable for its ease of walking around. However, Winston-Salem is a mediocre city 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.

Winston-Salem is generally not a very walkable coastal city. The downtown area is the most pedestrian-friendly part of town, but most of the city requires a car.

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

Should I spend more time in Winston-Salem or Fort Lauderdale?

How long in Fort Lauderdale or Winston-Salem?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Fort Lauderdale or Winston-Salem to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Fort Lauderdale than Winston-Salem because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Fort Lauderdale, and 1-2 days is enough time in Winston-Salem.

Families should spend more time in Fort Lauderdale than Winston-Salem. 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 Winston-Salem. 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 Winston-Salem 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 Winston-Salem.

One day in Fort Lauderdale or Winston-Salem?

Many travelers enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping when visiting the spirited destination of Fort Lauderdale. It's also a relaxing resort destination. Don't miss the beaches, as that's what most people do. Your budget might influence how long you stay. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

The under-rated destination of Winston-Salem offers nightlife and food. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One day is usually enough time to experience most activities.

A weekend in Fort Lauderdale or Winston-Salem?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Fort Lauderdale. Most people come for the beaches. Don't miss the beaches, as that's what most people do. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

The city of Winston-Salem offers food and shopping. 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 Winston-Salem?

Many travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the scenic destination of Fort Lauderdale. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. This coastal city offers a variety of activities to choose from. If you have five days, this is a great place to go. Five days is usually enough time to experience most activities.

Winston-Salem is a great place to explore. 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 Winston-Salem?

Many travelers enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling when visiting the beautiful coastal city of Fort Lauderdale. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. Plenty of people spend one week in the area when traveling.So, one week is just the right amount of time to spend here. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Winston-Salem. 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 Winston-Salem, we can see that Fort Lauderdale is more expensive. And not only is Winston-Salem much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Winston-Salem would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Winston-Salem 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 Winston-Salem.

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 Winston-Salem Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Fort Lauderdale or Winston-Salem?

Winston-Salem has a larger population, and is about 13% larger than the population of Fort Lauderdale. When comparing the sizes of Fort Lauderdale and Winston-Salem, 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 Winston-Salem?

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 Winston-Salem in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Fort Lauderdale and Winston-Salem. The beaches, snorkeling, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Fort Lauderdale this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Winston-Salem for the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Fort Lauderdale is generally around the same temperature as Winston-Salem. Daily temperatures in Fort Lauderdale average around 83°F (28°C), and Winston-Salem fluctuates around 81°F (27°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Winston-Salem this time of the year. In Fort Lauderdale, it's very sunny this time of the year. Fort Lauderdale usually receives more sunshine than Winston-Salem during summer. Fort Lauderdale gets 316 hours of sunny skies, while Winston-Salem receives 273 hours of full sun in the summer.

Winston-Salem receives a lot of rain in the summer. Fort Lauderdale gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In July, Fort Lauderdale usually receives more rain than Winston-Salem. Fort Lauderdale gets 5.9 inches (149 mm) of rain, while Winston-Salem receives 4.4 inches (112 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Fort Lauderdale or Winston-Salem in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Fort Lauderdale as well as Winston-Salem. Many travelers come to Fort Lauderdale for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area. Additionally, many visitors come to Winston-Salem in the autumn for the shopping scene.

Fort Lauderdale is much warmer than Winston-Salem in the autumn. The daily temperature in Fort Lauderdale averages around 78°F (26°C) in October, and Winston-Salem fluctuates around 62°F (17°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Winston-Salem. 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 Winston-Salem. Fort Lauderdale gets 275 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Winston-Salem receives 212 hours of full sun.

Fort Lauderdale receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Fort Lauderdale usually gets more rain in October than Winston-Salem. Fort Lauderdale gets 5.6 inches (143 mm) of rain, while Winston-Salem receives 3 inches (75 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Fort Lauderdale or Winston-Salem in the Winter?

Both Winston-Salem and Fort Lauderdale are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Fort Lauderdale in the winter for the shopping scene and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Winston-Salem for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Winston-Salem can be very cold during winter. In the winter, Fort Lauderdale is much warmer than Winston-Salem. Typically, the winter temperatures in Fort Lauderdale in January average around 67°F (20°C), and Winston-Salem averages at about 40°F (4°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Fort Lauderdale. Fort Lauderdale usually receives more sunshine than Winston-Salem during winter. Fort Lauderdale gets 243 hours of sunny skies, while Winston-Salem receives 169 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Fort Lauderdale usually receives less rain than Winston-Salem. Fort Lauderdale gets 2.2 inches (55 mm) of rain, while Winston-Salem receives 3.2 inches (82 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Fort Lauderdale or Winston-Salem in the Spring?

Both Winston-Salem and Fort Lauderdale during the spring are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Fort Lauderdale for the beaches and the natural beauty during these months.

In April, Fort Lauderdale is generally a little warmer than Winston-Salem. Daily temperatures in Fort Lauderdale average around 75°F (24°C), and Winston-Salem fluctuates around 61°F (16°C).

In Winston-Salem, 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 Winston-Salem. Fort Lauderdale gets 300 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Winston-Salem receives 248 hours of full sun.

Fort Lauderdale usually gets around the same amount of rain in April as Winston-Salem. Fort Lauderdale gets 3.1 inches (78 mm) of rain, while Winston-Salem receives 3.1 inches (80 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Winston-Salem and Fort Lauderdale