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

Should you visit Key Largo or Flagstaff?

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 Flagstaff 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 peaceful, family-friendly, and beautiful island. It's a quaint destination. Other popular activities here include scuba diving and snorkeling and beaches.

Flagstaff

Flagstaff is a adventurous , picturesque, and active city. It offers plenty of beauty for visitors. It's also popular because of the nightlife, food, and hiking.

Key Largo and Flagstaff: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Nice resorts
  • Good scuba and snorkeling destination
  • Popular beach
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for food
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less popular with backpackers
  • Less walkable
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Good for hiking
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Very walkable


Is there more to do in Key Largo or Flagstaff?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Flagstaff. Although Key Largo and Flagstaff are popular destinations, Flagstaff has more sights and attractions for tourists. Flagstaff is very popular for its museums, food, nightlife, hiking, shopping, and impressive beauty, while Key Largo attracts visitors for its resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and quaint atmosphere. Key Largo is famous for its snorkeling and scuba diving including that around John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park and the artificial reef around the USS Spiegel Grove. Flagstaff is famous for its nearby craters and volcanic caves as well as its location along the historic Route 66. It is also well known for Walnut Canyon National Monument.

How is Key Largo different from Flagstaff?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Key Largo
Flagstaff

Flagstaff 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 Flagstaff. Lowell Observatory is a highlight for many visitors, especially those who are fascinated by space. There's also the Museum of Northern Arizona, the Pioneer Museum, and Fort Tuthill Military History Museum.

Key Largo does not have museums and landmarks.


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

Key Largo
Flagstaff

Flagstaff is great for its local flavors and cuisine. However, Key Largo is not a good destination for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Flagstaff has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. The food scene is diverse and growing. There's a focus on local recipes and ingredients. You'll also find many casual and family-friendly restaurants. American cuisine is common, but you'll also find burritos, Indian curries, and frittatas.

Key Largo offers some easy restaurants to choose from. 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.

Is Key Largo or Flagstaff Better for Nightlife?

Key Largo
Flagstaff

Flagstaff is a city with good options for its evening party scene. However, Key Largo is not a good destination for nightlife.

If you're looking for night time activities Flagstaff has a few options to choose from. You'll find a range of bars and cocktail lounges around town that come to life in the evening hours.

Most people don't head to Key Largo specifically for the nightlife scene, but you can find a few options. This area is not known for its nightlife, so you'll need to head further south if partying is your style.

Is Key Largo or Flagstaff Better for Resorts?

Key Largo
Flagstaff

Key Largo is well known for its resorts. However, Flagstaff is not a resort destination.

In Key Largo, you'll find some of the region's top resorts. Popular resorts in the area include Playa Largo Resort & Spa, Autograph Collection, Reefhouse Resort & Marina, and Largo Resort.

Flagstaff is not a resort destination.


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

Key Largo
Flagstaff

Key Largo is well known for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Flagstaff is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Key Largo is an extremely popular place to visit for scuba diving and snorkeling. 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.

Flagstaff is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Key Largo or Flagstaff Better for Beaches?

Key Largo
Flagstaff

Key Largo is a island with good options for the beach. However, Flagstaff is not a beach destination.

Plenty of visitors enjoy relaxing on the beach in Key Largo. 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.

Flagstaff is not a beach destination.

Is Key Largo or Flagstaff Better for Hiking?

Key Largo
Flagstaff

Flagstaff is an unbeatable place for hiking. However, Key Largo is not a hiking destination.

Around Flagstaff visitors will find world-class hiking trails. Nearby you'll find world class hikes through surreal landscapes and diverse environments. The area is filled with desert landscapes and varied rock formations that are best explored on foot. Trails range in length and skill level, but whatever your ability, the hiking in the area is among the best.

Key Largo is not a hiking destination.


Is the Shopping Better in Key Largo or Flagstaff?

Key Largo
Flagstaff

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

Flagstaff has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. Located along historic Route 66, you'll find many shops that capture the city's history, particularly in the Southside Historic District. The town also has farmer's markets as well as shopping centers and large malls.

Key Largo is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Key Largo or Flagstaff Better for Families?

Key Largo
Flagstaff

Key Largo is a must-visit destination for its family-friendly activities. Also, Flagstaff is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

Key Largo is an extremely popular island to visit for families. 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.

Flagstaff is a very family-friendly destination. The city is filled with outdoor activities for kids like ropes courses and adventure parks. Kids will also enjoy climbing around the Lava River Cave, visiting Sunset Crater Volcano National Monument, or hiking through the many diverse landscapes in the area. There are also museums that educate visitors on the city's history as well as Lowell Observatory, which will intrigue all the space enthusiasts among us.

Is Key Largo or Flagstaff Better for Couples?

Key Largo
Flagstaff

Both Key Largo and Flagstaff 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.

Flagstaff is a nice destination for couples. Hiking and outdoor adventure sports make this city a good destination for couples who enjoy active living. There are many parks that you can visit as well as hiking trails and unique natural settings.


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

Key Largo
Flagstaff

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

Plenty of budget travelers and backpackers visit Flagstaff. There are campgrounds nearby as well as tons of nature parks and countless hiking trails in the area.

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 Flagstaff Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Key Largo
Flagstaff

Flagstaff is adequate for times when you don't have a car. However, Key Largo is not a good destination for its public transit.

Public transit is mostly limited in Flagstaff. The Mountain Line offers eight routes through town.

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

Is Key Largo or Flagstaff a more walkable city?

Key Largo
Flagstaff

Flagstaff is a city with good options for its ease of walking around. However, Key Largo is not a good destination for its walkability.

Flagstaff is a somewhat walkable city. The downtown is compact and walkable, but you'll really want to have a car to explore the nearby hiking trails and natural areas.

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


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

Should I spend more time in Flagstaff or Key Largo?

How long in Key Largo or Flagstaff?

It's fun to spend time in either Key Largo or Flagstaff. 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 Flagstaff.

Families should spend more time in Key Largo than Flagstaff. 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.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Flagstaff 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 Flagstaff.


  • How many days in Key Largo or Flagstaff? Ideal Length of Stay
    Key Largo 5-7 
    Flagstaff 2-4

One day in Key Largo or Flagstaff?

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 Flagstaff. 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 Flagstaff?

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 nightlife around the adventurous destination of Flagstaff. 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 Flagstaff?

You'll find scuba diving and snorkeling around the beautiful 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 nightlife and food when visiting the adventurous city of Flagstaff. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. Most people head to the area for the hiking. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.


A week in Key Largo or Flagstaff?

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.

Flagstaff 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.


Which place is cheaper, Flagstaff or Key Largo?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Key Largo is $212, while the average daily cost in Flagstaff is $166. 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 Key Largo and Flagstaff in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Key Largo $117
    Flagstaff $86
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Key Largo $234
    Flagstaff $172
Compare Hotels in Key Largo and Flagstaff

Looking for a hotel in Key Largo or Flagstaff? 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 Key Largo


Hotels in Flagstaff


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: Key Largo Hotel Prices and Flagstaff Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Key Largo $56
    Flagstaff $37

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Key Largo

Also for Key Largo, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Key Largo Private Transfers (up to 14 passengers): $142

Is it cheaper to fly into Key Largo or Flagstaff?

Prices for flights to both Flagstaff and Key Largo 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
    Key Largo $60
    Flagstaff $55

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Key Largo $27
    Flagstaff $28

Tours and Activities in Key Largo

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

  • Florida Key West Self-Driving Tour (Overseas Highway, 7 Mile Bridge): $17
  • Sunset Pontoon Boat Tour Around Key Largo: $36
  • Ultimate Florida Self Guided Driving Audio Tour Bundle: $40
  • Key Largo Coral Reef Glass Bottom Boat Adventure : $45
  • Small Group Florida Keys Eco Tour by Boat: $60
  • Sunset Cruise on the Florida Bay: $60
  • Mangroves and Manatees - Guided Kayak Eco Tour: $65
  • Key Largo Boat Charter Day Tour: $65
  • Key Largo Bay Sunset Tour: $66
  • Mangrove Tunnel Kayak Adventure in Key Largo: $68
  • 1.5 Hour Bay Side Key Largo Sunset Cruise on a Spacious Catamaran: $69
  • Key Largo Snorkeling Tour - rental mask, fins and vest INCLUDED: $70

Tours and Activities in Flagstaff

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

  • All-day Grand Canyon • Indian Ruins • Volcano • Christian Tour: $199
  • Antelope Canyon and Horseshoe Bend Day Tour from Flagstaff: $299
  • Antelope Slot Canyon and Horseshoe Bend Day Tour from Flagstaff: $285
  • Arizona: Grand Canyon National Park Tour with Lunch & Pickup: $245
  • Comprehensive Grand Canyon Tour from Flagstaff w/Lunch: $208
  • Downtown Flagstaff Haunted History Tour: $28
  • Flagstaff Extreme Adventure Course-Adult Course: $65
  • Flagstaff Ghosts Tour By Us Ghost Adventures: $24
  • Flagstaff Scavenger Hunt Walking Tour and Game: $25
  • Flagstaff Segway Tour: $129
  • Flagstaff, AZ: Murder Mystery Detective Experience: $15
  • Adults-Only Haunted Walking Tour: $35

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Key Largo $24
    Flagstaff $29

Sample the Local Flavors in Flagstaff

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Flagstaff:

  • Spirits With The Spirits, Haunted Pub Crawl Of Downtown Flagstaff: $50
  • Haunted Pub Crawl with Guide: $50


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

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 Flagstaff Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Key Largo or Flagstaff?

Flagstaff has a larger population, and is about 5 times larger than the population of Key Largo. When comparing the sizes of Key Largo and Flagstaff, 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.