A Travel Price Comparison for Florida Key West vs. Tallahassee for Nightlife, Families, Couples, and Food

Should you visit Key West or Tallahassee?

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

Should I visit Key West or Tallahassee? 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 eclectic, bustling, and active town. With fun activities and sights, this is a small town worth visiting. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. Since it has a quaint atmosphere, you'll want to spend time soaking it all in. It's also popular because of the beaches, nightlife, and food.

Tallahassee

Tallahassee is a youthful, lively, and vibrant city. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Key West and Tallahassee: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Active nightlife
  • Nice resorts
  • Good scuba and snorkeling destination
  • Popular beach
  • Scenic old town
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Impressive beauty
  • Quaint atmosphere
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with backpackers
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with couples


Is there more to do in Key West or Tallahassee?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Key West. Although Key West and Tallahassee are both popular with visitors, Key West has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Key West is more popular for its food, nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, historical sights, small town charm, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere, while Tallahassee is known for its museums and shopping. Key West is more touristy than Tallahassee and is popular 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. It is also home to Duval Street. Tallahassee is popular for its capital building and many universities.

How is Key West different from Tallahassee?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Key West or Tallahassee?

Key West
Tallahassee

Tallahassee is notable for its sights and museums. However, Key West does not have museums and landmarks.

Tallahassee offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. As the capital city of Florida, you'll find a number of museums around town. Tallahassee Museum has outdoor and indoor space to explore. You can also visit the Tallahassee Automobile Museum, the Museum of Florida History, or the Florida Historic Capital Museum.

Key West does not have museums and landmarks.


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

Key West
Tallahassee

Key West is a town with good options for its local flavors and cuisine. However, Tallahassee is not a good destination for its local cuisine and restaurants.

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.

Tallahassee offers some easy restaurants to choose from. You'll find plenty of chain restaurants and cheap eateries that cater to the students. The main options are classic American restaurants with a few international restaurants mixed in as well.

Is Key West or Tallahassee Better for Nightlife?

Key West
Tallahassee

Key West is great for its evening party scene. Also, Tallahassee is not as popular, but is still a nice city for nightlife.

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 Tallahassee. The nightlife scene is mostly centered around the student population. There are many bars and pubs that fill up with students on weekends.

Is Key West or Tallahassee Better for Resorts?

Key West
Tallahassee

Key West is great for its luxury resorts. However, Tallahassee is not a resort destination.

In Key West, you'll find some of the region's top resorts. 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.

Tallahassee is not a resort destination.


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

Key West
Tallahassee

Key West is a town with good options for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Tallahassee is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

It's fun to get in the water and check out the local marine life in Key West. 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.

Tallahassee is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Key West or Tallahassee Better for Beaches?

Key West
Tallahassee

Key West is great for the beach. However, Tallahassee is not a beach destination.

The beaches at Key West attract visitors from all over. 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.

Tallahassee is not a beach destination.

Is Key West or Tallahassee Better for its Old Town?

Key West
Tallahassee

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

Key West is an extremely popular place to visit the historic old town area. 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.

Tallahassee does not have a historic old town.


Is the Shopping Better in Key West or Tallahassee?

Key West
Tallahassee

Tallahassee is a popular place for its shopping opportunities. However, Key West is a mediocre town for its shopping areas.

Tallahassee offers some nice shopping areas. There is no shortage of strip malls and shopping centers in the area. Some of the most interesting shopping is found at Railroad Square and Market Square.

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 Tallahassee Better for Families?

Key West
Tallahassee

Key West is great for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Tallahassee is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its family-friendly activities.

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.

Tallahassee is a family-friendly place to visit. There are plenty of outdoor parks and adventure activities for kids. You could also see the wild manatees at Wakulla Springs.

Is Key West or Tallahassee Better for Couples?

Key West
Tallahassee

Key West is great for couples. However, Tallahassee is not a good destination for romance.

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.

Tallahassee is not the best destination for a couple to visit. Head to a restaurant or bar. You could also check out a concert or explore a garden or park in town.


Is Key West or Tallahassee Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Key West
Tallahassee

Tallahassee is a popular place for backpackers. However, Key West is a mediocre town for backpackers and budget travelers.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Tallahassee. The student population creates an environment that is welcoming to backpackers. There's also a hostel in town with affordable rooms.

Key West is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. Key West is a pretty expensive destination, but there are Airbnbs and even a hostel or two that cater to budget backpackers.

Is Key West or Tallahassee Better for Students?

Key West
Tallahassee

Key West and Tallahassee are both excellent destinations for students and younger travelers.

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.

Tallahassee is very popular with students. Both Florida State University and Florida A&M University are located here. There's a large student population with many activities and cheap restaurants that appeal to the student crowd.

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

Key West
Tallahassee

Tallahassee 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 Tallahassee. There is a bus system operated by StarMetro.

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


Is Key West or Tallahassee a more walkable city?

Key West
Tallahassee

Key West is a town with good options for its ease of walking around. However, Tallahassee is not a good destination for its walkability.

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

Tallahassee is generally not very walkable. There are a couple of walkable areas around Railroad Square, Downtown, and Midtown, but for the most part the city is not pedestrian-friendly.

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

Should I spend more time in Tallahassee or Key West?

How long in Key West or Tallahassee?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Key West or Tallahassee to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Key West than Tallahassee because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 5-7 days is a good amount of time for Key West, and 1-2 days is enough time in Tallahassee.

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

Couples should spend more time in Key West than Tallahassee. 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 Tallahassee than Key West 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 Tallahassee.


  • How many days in Key West or Tallahassee? Ideal Length of Stay
    Key West 5-7 
    Tallahassee 1-2

One day in Key West or Tallahassee?

Visitors enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the quirky town of Key West. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

The city of Tallahassee offers nightlife and shopping. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one day here. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

A weekend in Key West or Tallahassee?

Visitors enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling when visiting the lively destination of Key West. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. This town offers something for everyone. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

Tallahassee is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this city makes for a great vacation. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Tallahassee, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.


Five days in Key West or Tallahassee?

Visitors enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and nightlife when visiting the bustling town of Key West. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. Many people spend five days here.If you enjoy all that's offered here, then five days is just the right amount of time to spend here. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

Tallahassee is a popular choice for travelers. Five days 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. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A week in Key West or Tallahassee?

Visitors enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the quaint destination of Key West. Anyone can find something fun to do here. This is a popular place to visit for one week. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. In one week, you should have a good grasp of this town.

Tallahassee is a great place to explore. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This city offers something for everyone.


Which place is cheaper, Tallahassee or Key West?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Key West is $551, while the average daily cost in Tallahassee is $156. 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 West and Tallahassee in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Key West $132
    Tallahassee $89
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Key West $264
    Tallahassee $178
Compare Hotels in Key West and Tallahassee

Looking for a hotel in Key West or Tallahassee? 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 West


Hotels in Tallahassee


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 West Hotel Prices and Tallahassee Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Key West $51
    Tallahassee $33
Typical Local Transportation Prices in Key West

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for transportation costs in Key West:


  • Rental Car for One Day
    $38

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Key West

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Key West:

  • Key West Private Transfer (UP TO 14 PASSENGERS): $275
  • Private Arrival Transfer from Key West Airport EYW: $144
  • Key West Airport (EYW) to Key West - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $115
  • Marathon/ Key Largo to Fort Lauderdale Airport(FLL) - Departure Private Transfer: $111
  • Key West Int Airport (EYW) to Key West hotels Round-Trip Transfer: $89
  • Key West Int Airport (EYW) to Key West - Arrival Private Transfer: $58
  • Key West to Key West Airport (EYW) - Departure Private Transfer: $58
  • Key West Int Airport EYW to Key West Hotels Arrival Transfer: $44
  • Key West hotels to Key West Int Airport (EYW) Departure Transfer: $44
  • Key West Cruise Port to Key West Airport (EYW) Private Transfer: $39
  • Private Transfer from Key West Int Airport to Key West Port: $39
  • Private Transfer from Key West Cruise Port to Key West hotels: $39

Is it cheaper to fly into Key West or Tallahassee?

Prices for flights to both Tallahassee and Key West 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 West $385
    Tallahassee $47

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Key West

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Key West.

  • Sunset Cruise with Buffet Dinner and Open Bar: $90
  • Key West Sunset Dinner Cruise with Tropical Buffet Dinner: $93
  • Southernmost Food & Cultural Walking Tour by Key West Food Tours: $93
  • Historic Seaport Food & Walking Tour by Key West Food Tours: $93
  • Key West Walking Food Tour With Secret Food Tours: $109
  • Key West Sunset Buffet Dinner Cruise with open bar and Live Music : $110
  • Old Town Secret Food Tour: $113
  • Sunset Sail Full Bar, Live Music & Dinner & Early Morning Snorkeling: $160
  • Dolphin Watching & Snorkeling in Key West with Sunset Dinner Cruise and Open Bar: $190
  • Snorkeling, Sunset Dinner Cruise & Open Bar: $200

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Key West $33
    Tallahassee $12

Tours and Activities in Key West

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Key West are as follows:

  • Private E-Pedicab 1 Hour Sightseeing Ride of Old Town Key West: $100
  • Southernmost Ghosts Tour: $33
  • 1 Hour Key West Jet Ski Freestyle Adventure: $155
  • 2-Hour Live Music Guided Tour in Key West: $35
  • Adults only Champagne Celebration Sunset Cruise from Key West: $81
  • Bahama Village Walking Tour: $30
  • Best of Key West Walking Tour with Glass Bottom Boat Cruise: $229
  • Best of Key West with Glass Bottom Boat Cruise: $294
  • Bike Key West Beaches and Back Roads Audio Tour: $11
  • Cruise Through Key West's Black History Audio Tour: $11
  • Dark Corners of Key West – Walking Tour: $358
  • Dark Corners of Key West Walking Tour: $183

Tours and Activities in Tallahassee

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

  • Experience Tranquility with a Picnic at Pedrick Pond Park: $120
  • Tallahassee Tranquility: A Scenic Walking Tour: $383
  • Tallahassee Delights: A Christmas Tour Through Art and Parks: $492

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Key West $16
    Tallahassee $53

Sample the Local Flavors in Key West

Also in Key West, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • Key West Haunted Pub Crawl Walking Tour: $30
  • Haunted Pub Crawl Walking Tour: $30
  • Key West Haunted Pub Crawl and Ghost Tour: $32
  • Bone Island Haunted Pub Crawl: $32
  • Original Key West Pub Crawl: $43
  • 2.5-Hour Duval Street Pub Crawl: $43


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Key West and Tallahassee, we can see that Key West is more expensive. And not only is Tallahassee much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Tallahassee would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Tallahassee 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 Tallahassee.

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 Tallahassee Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Key West or Tallahassee?

Tallahassee has a larger population, and is about 6 times larger than the population of Key West. When comparing the sizes of Key West and Tallahassee, 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 Tallahassee?

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 Tallahassee in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Key West as well as Tallahassee. Many visitors come to Key West in the summer for the beaches, snorkeling, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences. Additionally, most visitors come to Tallahassee for the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In the summer, Key West is around the same temperature as Tallahassee. Typically, the summer temperatures in Key West in July average around 84°F (29°C), and Tallahassee averages at about 82°F (28°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Tallahassee. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Key West this time of the year. In the summer, Key West often gets more sunshine than Tallahassee. Key West gets 328 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Tallahassee receives 283 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Tallahassee. Key West usually gets less rain in July than Tallahassee. Key West gets 3.3 inches (83 mm) of rain, while Tallahassee receives 8.9 inches (227 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Key West 84°F (29°C) 
    Tallahassee 82°F (28°C)

Should I visit Key West or Tallahassee in the Autumn?

Both Tallahassee and Key West are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Key West for the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area during these months. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Tallahassee because of the shopping scene.

In October, Key West is generally a little warmer than Tallahassee. Daily temperatures in Key West average around 80°F (27°C), and Tallahassee fluctuates around 69°F (20°C).

It's quite sunny in Tallahassee. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Key West. Key West usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Tallahassee during autumn. Key West gets 258 hours of sunny skies, while Tallahassee receives 256 hours of full sun in the autumn.

It's quite rainy in Key West. In October, Key West usually receives more rain than Tallahassee. Key West gets 5.1 inches (129 mm) of rain, while Tallahassee receives 2.9 inches (74 mm) of rain each month for the autumn. June to November is the hurricane season in Key West. June to November is the hurricane season in Tallahassee.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Key West 80°F (27°C) 
    Tallahassee 69°F (20°C)

Should I visit Key West or Tallahassee in the Winter?

Both Tallahassee and Key West during the winter are popular places to visit. The winter months attract visitors to Key West because of the shopping scene and the cuisine. Also, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Tallahassee this time of year.

Key West is much warmer than Tallahassee in the winter. The daily temperature in Key West averages around 70°F (21°C) in January, and Tallahassee fluctuates around 51°F (11°C).

It's quite sunny in Key West. In the winter, Key West often gets more sunshine than Tallahassee. Key West gets 252 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Tallahassee receives 185 hours of full sun.

Key West usually gets less rain in January than Tallahassee. Key West gets 1.7 inches (43 mm) of rain, while Tallahassee receives 3.7 inches (95 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Key West 70°F (21°C) 
    Tallahassee 51°F (11°C)

Should I visit Key West or Tallahassee in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Key West and Tallahassee. The beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty are the main draw to Key West this time of year.

In the spring, Key West is a little warmer than Tallahassee. Typically, the spring temperatures in Key West in April average around 77°F (25°C), and Tallahassee averages at about 67°F (19°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Tallahassee this time of the year. In Key West, it's very sunny this time of the year. Key West usually receives more sunshine than Tallahassee during spring. Key West gets 326 hours of sunny skies, while Tallahassee receives 295 hours of full sun in the spring.

Tallahassee receives a lot of rain in the spring. In April, Key West usually receives less rain than Tallahassee. Key West gets 0.8 inches (21 mm) of rain, while Tallahassee receives 4.1 inches (103 mm) of rain each month for the spring. June to November in Key West is the hurricane season. June to November in Tallahassee is the hurricane season.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Key West 77°F (25°C) 
    Tallahassee 67°F (19°C)

Typical Weather for Tallahassee and Key West

Key West Tallahassee
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 70°F (21°C) 1.7 inches (43 mm) 51°F (11°C) 3.7 inches (95 mm)
Feb 71°F (21°C) 1.4 inches (36 mm) 54°F (12°C) 4.8 inches (121 mm)
Mar 74°F (23°C) 1.7 inches (42 mm) 60°F (16°C) 5.9 inches (151 mm)
Apr 77°F (25°C) 0.8 inches (21 mm) 67°F (19°C) 4.1 inches (103 mm)
May 81°F (27°C) 2.7 inches (68 mm) 74°F (23°C) 4.1 inches (103 mm)
Jun 83°F (28°C) 4.5 inches (114 mm) 80°F (27°C) 6.6 inches (168 mm)
Jul 84°F (29°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm) 82°F (28°C) 8.9 inches (227 mm)
Aug 84°F (29°C) 3.9 inches (98 mm) 82°F (28°C) 6.9 inches (175 mm)
Sep 83°F (29°C) 5.7 inches (144 mm) 78°F (26°C) 6.7 inches (169 mm)
Oct 80°F (27°C) 5.1 inches (129 mm) 69°F (20°C) 2.9 inches (74 mm)
Nov 76°F (24°C) 2 inches (50 mm) 60°F (16°C) 2.8 inches (71 mm)
Dec 72°F (22°C) 1.4 inches (35 mm) 54°F (12°C) 4.2 inches (107 mm)