A Travel Price Comparison for Florida Key West vs. Orlando for Resorts, Families, Food, and Nightlife

Should you visit Key West or Orlando?

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

Should I visit Key West or Orlando? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

Key West

Key West is a quirky, eclectic, and bustling town. With fun activities and sights, this is a small town worth visiting. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Since it has a quaint atmosphere, you'll want to spend time soaking it all in. Other reasons to visit include beaches, nightlife, and food.

Orlando

Orlando is a entertaining, active, and family-friendly city. And you can't forget about the nightlife, food, and shopping.

Key West and Orlando: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Key West or Orlando?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Orlando. Although Key West and Orlando are popular destinations, Orlando has more sights and attractions for tourists. Orlando is very popular for its theatre productions, food, resorts, and shopping, while Key West attracts visitors for its nightlife, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, historical sights, small town charm, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere. Key West is famous for its festive nightlife, quirky town center, colorful personality, adrenaline-filled watersports, stunning beaches, turquoise water, and location at the southernmost point of the continental U.S. Orlando is famous for being the home of Walt Disney World, Universal Orlando, and many other theme parks and family-friendly activities. It is also well known for Disney World, Universal Studios, and the city's many amusement parks.

How is Key West different from Orlando?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Key West or Orlando Better for Theater?

Orlando is a popular place for its theatre productions. However, Key West is not a theatre destination.

Orlando offers a number of shows and performances. The city has a number of local theaters that are fun to explore. As home to Disney World and Universal Studios, there are also a number of shows available that are affiliated with the parks.

Key West is not a theatre destination.

Is the Food Better in Key West or Orlando? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Orlando is notable for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Key West is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its restaurants.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Orlando. There are a diversity of restaurants on the Disney grounds and nearby. You'll also find many restaurants at Universal CityWalk and Disney Springs. Food can be expensive, and the quality can vary dramatically. Many people enjoy going to dinner shows as well. Restaurants can be challenging also, as reservations must be made months in advance.

Key West is becoming an appealing option for foodies. Head to town for local restaurants with quirky atmospheres. There are many local dishes to sample, be the town is most known for its stone crabs, conch fritters, and Mahi Mahi sandwiches. You'll also find cold drinks and waterfront dining areas.

Is Key West or Orlando Better for Nightlife?

Key West is great for nightlife. Also, Orlando is not as popular, but is still a nice city for nightlife and partying.

Many people head to Key West for the nightlife scene. This area has some of the most lively nightlife in the Florida Keys. There are quirky bars and fun hangouts where you can spend the evening. The party starts at Mallory Square around sunset and many bars stay open well into the early hours. You can also enjoy sunset cruises or pass your time at one of the many tiki bars.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Orlando. If you need a break from the kids, you'll find some of the best nightlife around Orlando at Disney Springs, Wall Street Plaza and Universal CityWalk.

Is Key West or Orlando Better for Resorts?

Orlando is renowned for its resorts. Also, Key West is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its luxury resorts.

For the ultimate resort vacation, Orlando is a great choice. Disney World is famous for its many iconic resorts. Some of the most popular are the Animal Kingdom Lodge, Port Orleans Resort, and the Grand Floridian Resort. There are also many resorts that aren't affiliated with the major theme parks. These tend to be more affordable, but transportation options to and from the park are limited. You'll also miss out on the perks that come with staying at a theme park resort.

Vacationers can choose from a number of terrific resorts in Key West. There are a number of high end resorts around the island, many with recognizable names such as the Hyatt and Hilton. Prices can be high, but these resorts often come with reliable luxury.

Is Key West or Orlando Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Key West is a popular place for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Orlando is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Key West has a few good snorkeling spots. There are a number of dive shops and snorkeling excursions that leave from Key West. Like many tourist areas these days, the coral shows its damage from the crowds, but you'll likely see some barracuda or a Grouper.

Orlando is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Key West or Orlando Better for Beaches?

Key West is great for its beaches. However, Orlando is not a beach destination.

Key West is considered a top beach destination. One of the best beaches in the area is Fort Zachary Taylor Historic State Park. The beach has soft sand and stunning turquoise water. As is typical in the Keys, the water stays shallow for great distances.

Orlando is not a beach destination.

Is Key West or Orlando Better for its Old Town?

Key West is great for its historic old town. However, Orlando does not have a historic old town.

Many visitors explore the old town while visiting Key West. The town has the most charming Old Town areas in the Florida Keys. Head to Mallory Square for the sunset street performers and explore the historic streets around Duval Street.

Orlando does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Key West or Orlando?

Orlando is notable for its shopping opportunities. However, Key West is a mediocre town for its shopping areas.

Orlando is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. Shopping is a dream for any Disney enthusiast. There are countless malls and shops, both on and off the Disney grounds, that sell all of the Disney paraphernalia. Disney Springs and Universal CityWalk are the most famous areas. During the evenings, these areas can be very crowded, but during the day they're less popular as most people are at the theme parks.

Key West has some good spots for those that want to go shopping. While it definitely has its share of gimmicky souvenir shops and t-shirt stores, there are still a number of art galleries and local shops around Key West where you can enjoy shopping.

Is Key West or Orlando Better for Christmas?

Orlando is renowned for its Christmas activities. However, Key West does not offer Christmas activities.

Orlando is a fantastic destination at Christmas. Christmas at Disney World is lots of fun. There are decorations and all kinds of seasonal activities around town.

Key West does not offer Christmas activities.

Is Key West or Orlando Better for Families?

Orlando is renowned for its family-friendly activities. Also, Key West is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

As it has a large number of activities for kids, Orlando is a very family-friendly destination. Known as a theme park capital, here you'll find the iconic Disney World, as well as Universal Studios, SeaWorld and many more. While most people spend their vacation at the Disney or Universal resorts, there is also an endless supply of less mainstream parks and activities in the area.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Key West. Families that enjoy snorkeling, aquariums, water sports, and exploring new places will enjoy visiting this part of the Florida Keys. There are many ways to get out on the water from kayaking and snorkeling to glass bottom boat tours and sunset cruises. There are also many kid-friendly beaches in the area. The town can have a party atmosphere, but it's not hard to find a more family-friendly area where everyone can have fun.

Is Key West or Orlando Better for Couples?

Key West is great for romance. Also, Orlando is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its romantic activities.

Key West is a great town if you're traveling as a couple. From Mallory Square to the beautiful nearby parks, Key West makes a wonderful, romantic destination. Whether it's your honeymoon, an anniversary, or simply a couples' retreat, Key West is a great option. You can sip wine on a sunset cruise or dine at one of the many character-filled restaurants in town. If you are looking for a party, it's not hard to find, but if you want a more laid back holiday, that's also possible.

Orlando makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. While most people visit the area with family, there is a niche crowd that enjoys honeymooning or vacationing here as a couple. There are many beautiful restaurants and interesting activities that couples can enjoy together. This is the perfect trip for fun loving couples who don't take themselves to seriously.

Is Key West or Orlando Better for Students?

Key West is great for its student-friendly activities. Also, Orlando is not as popular, but is still a nice city for students.

Key West is a very popular town for students and younger travelers. It's a great spring break destination with a quirky personality and many great activities.

Orlando is a good town to visit for students. Most people don't think about education when they think about Orlando, but there are actually a diversity of internships and opportunities for students to learn in a fun setting.

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

Orlando is a moderate city for its public transit. However, Key West is a mediocre town for times when you don't have a car.

Public transit is generally limited in Orlando. If you're staying at a Disney Property, there is excellent transportation around the complex, but otherwise, a car is essential.

Public transit is quite limited in Key West. Public transportation in Key West is limited to a few buses.

Is Key West or Orlando a more walkable city?

Key West is a popular place for its walkability. However, Orlando is not a good destination for its high level of walkability.

Key West is somewhat walkable. The town is the most walkable part of the Florida Keys. The area around Mallory Square and Duval Street is the most pedestrian friendly.

Orlando is not a walkable town. The city is sprawling, so unless you stay on the Disney grounds, it's best to rent a car.

For even more information, also check out Is Key West Worth Visiting? and Is Orlando Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Orlando or Key West?

How long in Key West or Orlando?

Both Key West and Orlando have a number of activities to choose from. You can spend a similar amount of time exploring either. In general, 5-7 days is a good amount of time for Key West, and 7 days is enough time in Orlando.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Key West than Orlando 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 Key West.

One day in Key West or Orlando?

In Key West, you'll find scuba diving and snorkeling and nightlife. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. This town offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

The city of Orlando offers food and shopping. It's also a relaxing resort destination. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

A weekend in Key West or Orlando?

In Key West, you'll find nightlife and food. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Visiting the old town is also a must. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

Orlando is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Key West or Orlando?

Key West is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Key West has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

Orlando is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Orlando, five days is sufficent for most. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A week in Key West or Orlando?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Key West. In Key West, you'll find scuba diving and snorkeling and nightlife. It's also a relaxing resort destination. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one week here.

Orlando is a great place to explore. It is common to spend one week here. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. One week is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Orlando has to offer. This city offers something for everyone.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Los Angeles, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from New York City, The Best 2-Week Tours from New York City, and The Best 2-Week Tours from Anchorage.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Key West or Orlando?

Orlando has a larger population, and is about 8 times larger than the population of Key West. When comparing the sizes of Key West and Orlando, 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 West or Orlando?

Both places have a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. As both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Key West or Orlando in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Key West as well as Orlando. The summer months attract visitors to Key West because of the beaches, snorkeling, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences. Additionally, the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Orlando this time of year.

In July, Key West is generally around the same temperature as Orlando. Daily temperatures in Key West average around 84°F (29°C), and Orlando fluctuates around 82°F (28°C).

It's quite rainy in Orlando. Key West usually gets less rain in July than Orlando. Key West gets 3.3 inches (83 mm) of rain, while Orlando receives 8.3 inches (211 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Key West or Orlando in the Autumn?

Both Orlando and Key West are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Key West this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Orlando for the shopping scene.

Key West is a little warmer than Orlando in the autumn. The daily temperature in Key West averages around 80°F (27°C) in October, and Orlando fluctuates around 75°F (24°C).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Orlando. It's quite rainy in Key West. In October, Key West usually receives more rain than Orlando. Key West gets 5.1 inches (129 mm) of rain, while Orlando receives 4.1 inches (103 mm) of rain each month for the autumn. The hurricane season in Key West is June to November.

Should I visit Key West or Orlando in the Winter?

Both Orlando and Key West during the winter are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Key West for the shopping scene and the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Orlando in the winter for the Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine.

In the winter, Key West is a little warmer than Orlando. Typically, the winter temperatures in Key West in January average around 70°F (21°C), and Orlando averages at about 59°F (15°C).

Key West usually gets less rain in January than Orlando. Key West gets 1.7 inches (43 mm) of rain, while Orlando receives 2.3 inches (58 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Key West or Orlando in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Key West and Orlando. Many visitors come to Key West in the spring for the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty.

In April, Key West is generally a little warmer than Orlando. Daily temperatures in Key West average around 77°F (25°C), and Orlando fluctuates around 72°F (22°C).

In April, Key West usually receives less rain than Orlando. Key West gets 0.8 inches (21 mm) of rain, while Orlando receives 2.7 inches (69 mm) of rain each month for the spring. June to November is the hurricane season in Key West.

Typical Weather for Orlando and Key West