A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Key Largo vs. Fairbanks for Families, Backpackers, Couples, and Food

Should you visit Key Largo or Fairbanks?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Key Largo and Fairbanks can help. It includes a travel cost comparison in addition to other factors. For many travelers, the cost of a destination is a primary consideration when choosing where to go.

Key Largo

Key Largo is a relaxed, peaceful, and family-friendly island. As it is a quaint destination, it has a nice vibe. It's also popular because of the scuba diving and snorkeling and beaches.

Fairbanks

Fairbanks is a unique, outdoorsy, and remote city. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. It's also popular because of the museums, hiking, and shopping.

Key Largo and Fairbanks: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Key Largo or Fairbanks?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Fairbanks. Although Key Largo and Fairbanks are popular destinations, Fairbanks has more sights and attractions for tourists. Fairbanks is very popular for its skiing, museums, hiking, shopping, and impressive beauty, while Key Largo attracts visitors for its nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and quaint atmosphere. Key Largo is more touristy than Fairbanks and is known for its snorkeling and scuba diving including that around John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park and the artificial reef around the USS Spiegel Grove. Fairbanks is famous for its remote wilderness setting, access to the Arctic, unique winter sports, and popularity for seeing the northern lights. It is also well known for The Northern Lights.

How is Key Largo different from Fairbanks?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Key Largo or Fairbanks Better for Skiing?

Fairbanks is adequate for skiing. However, Key Largo is not a skiing destination.

While in the area, visitors like to go to Fairbanks for snow skiing. The closest ski areas are the ski resorts of Fort Wainwright/Birch Hill, Moose Mountain and Skiland. The area also has dog mushing, snowshoeing, sledding, tubing and sleigh riding.

Key Largo is not a skiing destination.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Key Largo or Fairbanks?

Fairbanks is a city with good options for its historical sights. However, Key Largo does not have museums and landmarks.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Fairbanks. The city is mostly known for its outdoor activities, but you can also visit the Morris Thompson Cultural & Visitors Center, the Aurora Ice Museum, Fountainhead Auto Museum, the Museum of the North, and Pioneer Park.

Key Largo does not have museums and landmarks.

Is the Food Better in Key Largo or Fairbanks? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Dining out at restaurants in both Key Largo and Fairbanks can be an enjoyable experience.

Key Largo may not make the list for most foodies, but you'll find what you need while you're in town. Like the rest of the Florida Keys, Key Largo is known for its Key Lime pie and seafood. You'll find a great selection of restaurants that serve seafood dishes and options for the land-loving crew. There are even a few international restaurants to choose from.

Fairbanks offers some easy restaurants to choose from. Food can be expensive and of varying quality, but many restaurants use local meats and seafood. There's a surprising number of international restaurants in town as well. Also make sure you try the local specialties like reindeer sausage, Yukon gold potatoes, and Alaskan salmon.

Is Key Largo or Fairbanks Better for Nightlife?

Key Largo is a decent place to visit for its evening party scene. However, Fairbanks is lacking in good options for nightlife.

Those looking for nightlife will find a few places to hang out in Key Largo. This area is not known for its nightlife, so you'll need to head further south if partying is your style.

Things get quiet in the evenings in Fairbanks. You will find some bars around town, but for the most part, the city stays quiet at night.

Is Key Largo or Fairbanks Better for Resorts?

Key Largo is a very popular place for its luxury resorts. However, Fairbanks is not a resort destination.

Key Largo is known as a popular and fun resort destination. Popular resorts in the area include Playa Largo Resort & Spa, Autograph Collection, Reefhouse Resort & Marina, and Largo Resort.

Fairbanks is not a resort destination.

Is Key Largo or Fairbanks Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Key Largo is a very popular place for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Fairbanks is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Many visitors partake in scuba diving or snorkeing while visiting Key Largo. Near this island you'll find some of the best snorkeling and diving in the Florida Keys at John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park. There are private tours that head out to the reef for either snorkeling or diving. There are also shipwrecks and other fascinating spots to explore.

Fairbanks is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Key Largo or Fairbanks Better for Beaches?

Key Largo is a popular place for the beach. However, Fairbanks is not a beach destination.

Key Largo is a good option for a beach vacation. Many of the beaches around Key Largo are man-made, but they do offer nice sand and beautiful blue water. The water is turquoise, although not as striking as further south.

Fairbanks is not a beach destination.

Is Key Largo or Fairbanks Better for Hiking?

Fairbanks is great for hiking. However, Key Largo is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors go to Fairbanks for the hiking trails. While the town serves as a gateway to the Arctic and all that it has to offer, there are also hiking trails both in town and nearby. There are trails that connect the city's historic sites as well as day hikes that start at the edge of town.

Key Largo is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Key Largo or Fairbanks?

Fairbanks is a city with good options for its shopping areas. However, Key Largo is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Fairbanks has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. There are interesting local shops and boutiques that sell native Alaskan handmade items. You'll find "Made in Alaska" merchandise at many boutiques and souvenir shops. There are also larger retailers available in case you forgot clothing or other items at home.

Key Largo is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Key Largo or Fairbanks Better for Families?

Key Largo is an amazing island to visit for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Fairbanks is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

As it has a large number of activities for kids, Key Largo is a very family-friendly destination. This area has some of the best family-friendly snorkeling at John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park. There's also several places where your kids can interact with dolphins or experience wildlife. If you want to get out on the water, there's kayaking, sunset cruises, and glass bottom boats, all of which are great for the whole family.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Fairbanks. Kids who enjoy searching for wildlife, playing in the snow, and exploring nature will love a visit to Fairbanks. Make sure you visit the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge as well as Pioneer Park.

Is Key Largo or Fairbanks Better for Couples?

Both Key Largo and Fairbanks are nice destinations for a couple's getaway.

Key Largo is a good island for couples to visit. Most couples head further down the Florida Keys, but for snorkeling and scuba diving, Key Largo is the better option. You'll also find kayaking and sunset cruises that leave from the area.

Fairbanks is a nice destination for couples. Couples who enjoy hiking and nature will love a visit here. If you're hoping to see the northern lights, Fairbanks is your best destination in Alaska. Try to visit sometime between August to April for the best chance of enjoying the lights.

Is Key Largo or Fairbanks Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Fairbanks is great for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Key Largo is not a good destination for backpackers.

Plenty of budget travelers and backpackers visit Fairbanks. There are many outdoor recreation areas where backpackers can explore. Alaska, and Fairbanks in particular, can have very harsh conditions, so unless you know what you're doing, it's best to take a guide.

Key Largo is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. This area is a bit more affordable than the more southern keys so it appeals to budget travelers and backpackers.

Is Key Largo or Fairbanks Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Neither Key Largo or Fairbanks offer decent public transit.

Public transit is quite limited in Key Largo. There's no real public transit around the island and you must have a car to get around.

Public transit is limited or non-existant in Fairbanks. There is a public bus system that connects the downtown area with the shopping areas and the university. However, you really can't rely on it to explore the region and you should have your own vehicle.

Is Key Largo or Fairbanks a more walkable city?

Neither Key Largo or Fairbanks are walkable places.

Key Largo is not a very walkable island. It is a sprawling area that spreads out along a main highway that is not pedestrian friendly.

Fairbanks is not a walkable island. The city was built for cars and there are very few walkable areas around town.

For even more information, also check out Is Key Largo Worth Visiting? and Is Fairbanks Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Fairbanks or Key Largo?

How long in Key Largo or Fairbanks?

It's fun to spend time in either Key Largo or Fairbanks. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Key Largo due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 5-7 days is a good amount of time for Key Largo, and 2-4 days is enough time in Fairbanks.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Fairbanks than Key Largo 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 Fairbanks.

One day in Key Largo or Fairbanks?

You'll find scuba diving and snorkeling around the island of Key Largo. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. 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.

You'll find shopping and museums around the city of Fairbanks. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. 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.

A weekend in Key Largo or Fairbanks?

You'll find scuba diving and snorkeling around the beautiful destination of Key Largo. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. This island offers a variety of activities to choose from.

You'll find museums and shopping around the unique destination of Fairbanks. Hikers are also drawn to this area. 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.

Five days in Key Largo or Fairbanks?

You'll find scuba diving and snorkeling around the peaceful island of Key Largo. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this island makes for a great vacation. It's also a relaxing resort destination. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this island has to offer.

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the Arctic city of Fairbanks. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in Key Largo or Fairbanks?

Key Largo is a popular choice for travelers. One week here is typical. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Key Largo, one week is sufficent for most. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Fairbanks is a popular choice for travelers. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. 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.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Adventure Tours to United States of America, The Best Train & Rail Tours in United States of America, The Best Sightseeing Tours in United States of America, and The Best Cruise Tours and Packages in United States of America.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Key Largo or Fairbanks?

Fairbanks has a larger population, and is about 2 times larger than the population of Key Largo. When comparing the sizes of Key Largo and Fairbanks, 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 Key Largo or Fairbanks?

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 Key Largo or Fairbanks in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Key Largo and Fairbanks. Many travelers come to Key Largo for the beaches, snorkeling, and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, many visitors come to Fairbanks in the summer for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences.

Key Largo is much warmer than Fairbanks in the summer. The daily temperature in Key Largo averages around 82°F (28°C) in July, and Fairbanks fluctuates around 64°F (18°C).

Key Largo gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In July, Key Largo usually receives more rain than Fairbanks. Key Largo gets 5.9 inches (149 mm) of rain, while Fairbanks receives 2 inches (51 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Key Largo or Fairbanks in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Key Largo as well as Fairbanks. Additionally, most visitors come to Fairbanks for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

Fairbanks can be very cold during autumn. In the autumn, Key Largo is much warmer than Fairbanks. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Key Largo in October average around 78°F (26°C), and Fairbanks averages at about 27°F (-3°C).

Key Largo receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Key Largo usually gets more rain in October than Fairbanks. Key Largo gets 5.6 inches (143 mm) of rain, while Fairbanks receives 0.9 inches (22 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Key Largo or Fairbanks in the Winter?

Both Fairbanks and Key Largo are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Key Largo for the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Fairbanks because of the skiing, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

The weather in Fairbanks can be very cold. In January, Key Largo is generally much warmer than Fairbanks. Daily temperatures in Key Largo average around 67°F (19°C), and Fairbanks fluctuates around -9°F (-23°C).

In January, Key Largo usually receives more rain than Fairbanks. Key Largo gets 2.2 inches (55 mm) of rain, while Fairbanks receives 0.5 inches (13 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Key Largo or Fairbanks in the Spring?

Both Fairbanks and Key Largo during the spring are popular places to visit. The spring months attract visitors to Key Largo because of the beaches. Also, the natural beauty are the main draw to Fairbanks this time of year.

It's quite cold in Fairbanks in the spring. Key Largo is much warmer than Fairbanks in the spring. The daily temperature in Key Largo averages around 74°F (24°C) in April, and Fairbanks fluctuates around 32°F (0°C).

Key Largo usually gets more rain in April than Fairbanks. Key Largo gets 3.1 inches (78 mm) of rain, while Fairbanks receives 0.4 inches (9 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Fairbanks and Key Largo