A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Jacksonville vs. Lancaster for Attractions, Food, Nightlife, and Families

Should you visit Jacksonville or Lancaster?

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 Jacksonville and Lancaster. 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.

Jacksonville

Jacksonville is a under-rated, lively, and youthful city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food.

Lancaster

Lancaster is a picturesque, scenic, and traditional town. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the museums, food, and shopping.

Jacksonville and Lancaster: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Jacksonville or Lancaster?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Jacksonville than Lancaster. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Jacksonville is very popular for its food, nightlife, beaches, and big city activities, while Lancaster attracts visitors for its impressive beauty. Lancaster is more touristy than Jacksonville and is known for its history and long running Amish community. Jacksonville is famous for its beautiful beaches and lively downtown area. It is also well known for Cummer Museum of Art and Gardens.

How is Jacksonville different from Lancaster?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Jacksonville or Lancaster?

You'll find a number of great museums and attractions in both Lancaster and Jacksonville.

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around Jacksonville. The city has a number of museums that range from art museums to science or kid-friendly museums. Some favorites are the Museum of Science and History, the Museum of Contemporary Art, the Mandarin Museum and Historical Society, and Kingsley Plantation.

Lancaster offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. Filled with history and local culture, there are many educational opportunities in the area where you can learn about Amish traditions. The Amish Village has tours and unique experiences. The town also has James Buchanan's Wheatland, the Railroad Museum of Pennsylvania, the National Toy Train Museum, the Ephrata Cloister, and the National Watch & Clock Museum, among many others.

Is the Food Better in Jacksonville or Lancaster? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Jacksonville is a great city for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Lancaster is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Jacksonville has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. Local cuisine has its own identity. Unique dishes around town include garlic crabs, seafood boil, gumbo, and shrimp and grits. The local cuisine is similar to Lowcountry dishes with a lot of Cajun influence. If you want something different from seafood, you should try the barbecue.

Lancaster offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. You can sample authentic Pennsylvania Dutch dishes at one of the Amish restaurants in the area. Many places serve food family-style and dishes include chicken pot pie, ham balls, and pork and sauerkraut. Whoopie pies also originated in the area.

Is Jacksonville or Lancaster Better for Nightlife?

Jacksonville is a great city for its evening party scene. However, Lancaster is not known for nightlife.

The nightlife in Jacksonville has something for everybody. The young population brings out the nightlife scene. There's a great concentration of bars and clubs in the area known as The Elbow, which is at the intersection of N. Ocean and E. Bay Street. You'll find plenty of cocktail bars, lounges, and clubs around town that make for a fun night out.

Most people don't head to Lancaster specifically for the nightlife scene, but you can find a few options. It's a small town, but you'll still find local pubs and cozy bars where you can enjoy a drink in a laid back atmosphere.

Is Jacksonville or Lancaster Better for Beaches?

Jacksonville is a great city for the beach. However, Lancaster is not a beach destination.

You'll have a great beach vacation in Jacksonville. There are a number of beaches that are just a short distance from the city. Some have a historic vibe while others are more lively. Atlantic Beach is about a half hour drive from the city. For a laid back vibe head to Neptune Beach and the most popular beach in the area is Jacksonville Beach.

Lancaster is not a beach destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Jacksonville or Lancaster?

Shoppers can find a variety of great stores in both Jacksonville and Lancaster.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in Jacksonville. There are countless malls and shopping districts around town. Some of the best shopping is found at St. John's Center, Five Points, and Avondale.

Lancaster is an extremely popular place for shoppers. Many visitors pick up hand-crafted Amish items while they're in town. Furniture and Amish quilts are particularly popular. Farmers markets and antique shopping are both unique in the area and there are also art galleries and several outlet stores that you can visit.

Is Jacksonville or Lancaster Better for Families?

Lancaster is an excellent place to visit for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Jacksonville is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Lancaster. In you area you'll find farms and petting zoos, amusement parks, and train rides. They can learn about a unique lifestyle at the Amish Experience or soak up the local beauty and farmland in the surrounding countryside.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Jacksonville. It's filled with adventure parks, zoos, animal farms, nature centers, and gardens. Adults will have as much fun as kids exploring the city and all of its family-friendly attractions.

Is Jacksonville or Lancaster Better for Couples?

Lancaster is an excellent place to visit for couples. Also, Jacksonville is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for romance.

Lancaster makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. This region is known for it's local beauty and serene farmland, making it a relaxing and peaceful destination for couples. There are walking trails, outdoor activities, buggy rides, and a variety of dining experiences. You can also stay at a bed and breakfast or local inn.

Jacksonville is a nice destination for couples. It's a young city that's near nature and has plenty of adventurous activities. There's sailing, botanical gardens, restaurants, and plenty of bars around town.

Is Jacksonville or Lancaster Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Jacksonville is a nice place to visit for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Lancaster is not known for backpackers.

It's common for backpackers to visit Jacksonville. There are a few hostels in town as well as affordable motels. The city has a young population with plenty to do. Although it's often overlooked by tourists, there's a surprising and underrated appeal to the backpacker crowd.

Lancaster is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. Although it's often overlooked by backpackers, the region offers a unique cultural experience.

Is Jacksonville or Lancaster Better for Students?

Jacksonville is a nice place to visit for its student-friendly activities. However, Lancaster is not popular with students.

It's common for students to visit Jacksonville. There are a few colleges and universities in town. The city's population is also very young, making it a great place to study.

Lancaster is not popular with students.

Is Jacksonville or Lancaster Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Jacksonville is a nice place to visit for times when you don't have a car. However, Lancaster is not known for its public transit.

While Jacksonville offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. The public transportation system includes trolleys, the Skyway, buses, water taxis, and the ferry.

Public transit is generally limited in Lancaster. The city has buses and several transportation options, but once you're outside of the urban core, your options are limited.

Is Jacksonville or Lancaster a more walkable city?

Jacksonville is a nice place to visit for its ease of walking around. However, Lancaster is not known for its walkability.

Jacksonville is a somewhat walkable city. Downtown Jacksonville is the most walkable part of the city.

Lancaster is generally not very walkable. While the city itself has walkable areas, most visitors want to get out and explore the countryside, which requires a car.

For even more information, also check out Is Jacksonville Worth Visiting? and Is Lancaster Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Lancaster or Jacksonville?

How long in Jacksonville or Lancaster?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Jacksonville and Lancaster. In our opinion, Jacksonville has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Jacksonville than Lancaster. However, 2-3 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

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

Couples should spend more time in Jacksonville than Lancaster. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Jacksonville that are great for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Jacksonville than Lancaster 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 Jacksonville.

One day in Jacksonville or Lancaster?

You'll find shopping and museums around the city of Jacksonville. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

In Lancaster, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this traditional town offers. 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.

A weekend in Jacksonville or Lancaster?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the fun destination of Jacksonville. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Lancaster is a fun place to experience. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. So, a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

Five days in Jacksonville or Lancaster?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the vibrant city of Jacksonville. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. It's also a great beach destination, too. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

You'll find food and shopping around the picturesque destination of Lancaster. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days.

A week in Jacksonville or Lancaster?

Jacksonville is a popular choice for travelers. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. One week is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Lancaster is a popular place to visit. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Polar Tours & Cruises in United States of America, The Best Walking Tours in United States of America, The Best Tours Under $1000 in United States of America, and The Best Luxury Tours to United States of America.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Jacksonville and Lancaster, we can see that Jacksonville is more expensive. And not only is Lancaster much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Lancaster would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Lancaster 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 Jacksonville would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Jacksonville than you might in Lancaster.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Jacksonville Expensive? and Is Lancaster Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Jacksonville or Lancaster?

Jacksonville has a larger population, and is about 10 times larger than the population of Lancaster. When comparing the sizes of Jacksonville and Lancaster, 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 Jacksonville or Lancaster?

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 Jacksonville or Lancaster in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Jacksonville and Lancaster. Many visitors come to Jacksonville in the summer for the beaches, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Lancaster for the family-friendly experiences during these months.

Jacksonville is a little warmer than Lancaster in the summer. The daily temperature in Jacksonville averages around 82°F (28°C) in July, and Lancaster fluctuates around 77°F (25°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Lancaster this time of the year. In Jacksonville, it's very sunny this time of the year. Jacksonville usually receives less sunshine than Lancaster during summer. Jacksonville gets 286 hours of sunny skies, while Lancaster receives 310 hours of full sun in the summer.

Jacksonville gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In July, Jacksonville usually receives more rain than Lancaster. Jacksonville gets 5.4 inches (137 mm) of rain, while Lancaster receives 3.6 inches (91 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Jacksonville or Lancaster in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Jacksonville as well as Lancaster. Most visitors come to Jacksonville for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene during these months. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Lancaster because of the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Jacksonville is much warmer than Lancaster. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Jacksonville in October average around 70°F (21°C), and Lancaster averages at about 56°F (13°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Jacksonville this time of the year. In the autumn, Jacksonville often gets more sunshine than Lancaster. Jacksonville gets 214 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Lancaster receives 194 hours of full sun.

Jacksonville usually gets around the same amount of rain in October as Lancaster. Jacksonville gets 2.9 inches (73 mm) of rain, while Lancaster receives 2.9 inches (75 mm) of rain this time of the year. Also, the hurricane season in Jacksonville is June to November.

Should I visit Jacksonville or Lancaster in the Winter?

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

It's quite cold in Lancaster in the winter. In January, Jacksonville is generally much warmer than Lancaster. Daily temperatures in Jacksonville average around 53°F (12°C), and Lancaster fluctuates around 30°F (-1°C).

Jacksonville usually receives more sunshine than Lancaster during winter. Jacksonville gets 191 hours of sunny skies, while Lancaster receives 153 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Jacksonville usually receives more rain than Lancaster. Jacksonville gets 3.3 inches (83 mm) of rain, while Lancaster receives 2.8 inches (72 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Jacksonville or Lancaster in the Spring?

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

Jacksonville is much warmer than Lancaster in the spring. The daily temperature in Jacksonville averages around 68°F (20°C) in April, and Lancaster fluctuates around 53°F (12°C).

In Lancaster, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Jacksonville. In the spring, Jacksonville often gets more sunshine than Lancaster. Jacksonville gets 285 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Lancaster receives 237 hours of full sun.

Jacksonville usually gets less rain in April than Lancaster. Jacksonville gets 2.8 inches (72 mm) of rain, while Lancaster receives 3.2 inches (82 mm) of rain this time of the year. Keep in mind that June to November is the hurricane season in Jacksonville.

Typical Weather for Lancaster and Jacksonville