A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Myrtle Beach vs. Detroit for Nightlife, Food, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Myrtle Beach or Detroit?

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

Which city is more affordable and which is best for your travel style? If you're trying to figure out where to go next, comparing the travel costs between Myrtle Beach and Detroit can help you decide which place is right for you.

Myrtle Beach

Myrtle Beach is a party-filled, busy, and jam-packed beach city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. Visitors also love the nightlife and beaches.

Detroit

Detroit is a overlooked , under-rated, and hardworking city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. Other popular activities here include shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Myrtle Beach and Detroit: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Active nightlife
  • Nice resorts
  • Popular beach
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for students
Things to Consider
  • Less family-friendly
  • Less popular with backpackers
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Family-friendly
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with couples
  • Less popular with backpackers


Is there more to do in Myrtle Beach or Detroit?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Detroit. Although Myrtle Beach and Detroit are both popular with visitors, Detroit has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Detroit is more popular for its museums, food, music, and shopping, while Myrtle Beach is known for its nightlife, resorts, and beaches. Myrtle Beach is more touristy than Detroit and is popular for its party-hard atmosphere, spring break crowds, and beachfront nightlife scene. Detroit is popular for its Motown music, blue collar atmosphere, and influential auto industry. It is also home to the Henry Ford Experience.

How is Myrtle Beach different from Detroit?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Myrtle Beach or Detroit?

Myrtle Beach
Detroit

Detroit is very good for its museums and landmarks. However, Myrtle Beach 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 Detroit. Popular museums around town include the Detroit Institute of Arts, the Detroit Historical Museum, and the Michigan Science Center.

Myrtle Beach does not have museums and landmarks.


Is the Food Better in Myrtle Beach or Detroit? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Myrtle Beach
Detroit

Detroit is very good for its restaurant scene. However, Myrtle Beach is a beach city with minimal options for its local flavors and cuisine.

There are many up and coming restaurants in the Detroit area. There's a local flavor to the food with a number of classic dishes that are popular like square pizza, Coney dogs, and corned beef egg rolls.

Myrtle Beach offers some easy restaurants to choose from. Slices of pizza and seafood buffets are the most common options in the area. There are also themed restaurants and dinner shows that make for a fun night, even if the food isn't the highest quality.

Is Myrtle Beach or Detroit Better for Nightlife?

Myrtle Beach
Detroit

Myrtle Beach is an unbeatable place for nightlife and partying. Also, Detroit is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its evening party scene.

The nightlife in Myrtle Beach is well established with world renowned clubs and venues. This beach is famous for its nightlife. From all-night bars and clubs, to music concerts and outdoor venues, there's no shortage of things to do. Bachelor and Bachelorette parties and spring break crowds make this the place to be for a party.

Detroit is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. It's long history in music still influences the nightlife scene. You'll find bars, clubs, and other activities around town. Greektown and Midtown are both popular neighborhoods during the evening.

Is Myrtle Beach or Detroit Better for Music?

Myrtle Beach
Detroit

Detroit is a world-class destination for its music scene. However, Myrtle Beach is not a live music destination.

In Detroit you'll find nightly musicians performing at a variety of venues. Few cities have such an influential music industry. It's home to Motown and is well known for its soul music, jazz, blues, and rap.

Myrtle Beach is not a live music destination.


Is Myrtle Beach or Detroit Better for Resorts?

Myrtle Beach
Detroit

Myrtle Beach is a decent place to visit for its luxury resorts. However, Detroit is not a resort destination.

Not known for its high-end resorts, Myrtle Beach offers a few options. While there are a handful of resorts in the area, like the popular Marriott Vacation Club, most hotels are crowded and lacking in space.

Detroit is not a resort destination.

Is Myrtle Beach or Detroit Better for Beaches?

Myrtle Beach
Detroit

Myrtle Beach is a very popular place for the beache. However, Detroit is not a beach destination.

You'll have a great beach vacation in Myrtle Beach. Most people head to the center of town and boardwalk for the nightlife and vibrant activities more than the actual beach. The stretches north and south have nice beaches lined with hotels and resorts, and a much more family-friendly atmosphere. If you want a more relaxed beach setting without the huge crowds, check out Myrtle Beach State Park.

Detroit is not a beach destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Myrtle Beach or Detroit?

Myrtle Beach
Detroit

Detroit is very good for its shopping areas. However, Myrtle Beach is a beach city with minimal options for shopping.

Many visitors go to Detroit to go shopping. There are several shopping streets like Woodward Avenue. There are also outlet malls, shopping centers, and Eastern Market.

Myrtle Beach is a good destination for shopping. The town is filled with souvenir shops, t-shirt shops, and candy vendors that make shopping entertaining.


Is Myrtle Beach or Detroit Better for Families?

Myrtle Beach
Detroit

Detroit is very good for its family-friendly activities. However, Myrtle Beach is a beach city with minimal options for its kid-friendly activities.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Detroit. Head to the Detroit Zoo or check out one of the amusement parks in the area. Kids will enjoy a visit to Legoland and there's also the Sea Life Michigan Aquarium. You could also spend some time visiting the unique museums in the area.

For families, Myrtle Beach is not always the best place to visit. While this area isn't generally considered a family destination, there are some newer vacation clubs and resorts that cater specifically to families and have become popular. The Marriott Vacation Club is one of the most popular with families in Myrtle Beach.

Is Myrtle Beach or Detroit Better for Couples?

Myrtle Beach
Detroit

Myrtle Beach is a nice place to visit for its romantic activities. However, Detroit is lacking in good options for couples.

Myrtle Beach makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. The beach area isn't exactly a romantic destination but for couples who enjoy going out and having fun together, there is no shortage of night time activities.

Detroit is not always the best place to visit for a couple. It's not a city that usually brings to mind romance, but if you find yourself here for a couple of days, there's a RiverWalk area and some interesting local neighborhoods.

Is Myrtle Beach or Detroit Better for Students?

Myrtle Beach
Detroit

Myrtle Beach is a very popular place for its student-friendly activities. However, Detroit is not popular with students.

Myrtle Beach is a great beach city to visit as a student. University students flock to the area for spring break and end of year celebrations. If you're a student during those times, this is the place to be, otherwise, the area is best avoided.

Detroit is not popular with students.


Is Myrtle Beach or Detroit Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Myrtle Beach
Detroit

Detroit is a city with a few options for its public transit. However, Myrtle Beach is a beach city with minimal options for times when you don't have a car.

Public transit is generally limited in Detroit. There's a streetcar and bus system, but the car is still king in Motor City.

Public transit is quite limited in Myrtle Beach. There are no real public transit options so you'll need a car to get around.

Is Myrtle Beach or Detroit a more walkable city?

Myrtle Beach
Detroit

Detroit is very good for its ease of walking around. However, Myrtle Beach is a beach city with minimal options for its walkability.

Detroit is a somewhat walkable city. There are parts of downtown Detroit that are walkable, but most people need a car to get around.

Myrtle Beach is generally not a very walkable beach city. By the Boardwalk, it's easy to walk around, but traffic can still be congested and once you're out of the main strip, a car is essential.

For even more information, also check out Is Myrtle Beach Worth Visiting? and Is Detroit Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Detroit or Myrtle Beach?

How long in Myrtle Beach or Detroit?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Myrtle Beach and Detroit. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Myrtle Beach than in Detroit. Usually, 2-7 days is a good amount of time for Myrtle Beach, and 1-3 days is enough time in Detroit.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Detroit than Myrtle Beach 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 Detroit.


  • How many days in Myrtle Beach or Detroit? Ideal Length of Stay
    Myrtle Beach 2-7 
    Detroit 1-3

One day in Myrtle Beach or Detroit?

In Myrtle Beach, you'll find nightlife. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. One reason most visitors come is for the nightlife. This beach city offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

In Detroit, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this overlooked city offers. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. In one day, you should have a good grasp of this city.


A weekend in Myrtle Beach or Detroit?

In Myrtle Beach, you'll find nightlife. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Most people come for the beaches. One reason most visitors come is for the nightlife. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Myrtle Beach has to offer.

Detroit 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. Lots of people come for the live music. So, a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

Five days in Myrtle Beach or Detroit?

Myrtle Beach is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Myrtle Beach has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

You'll find nightlife and live music around the hardworking destination of Detroit. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Lots of people come for the live music. 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 Myrtle Beach or Detroit?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Myrtle Beach. In Myrtle Beach, you'll find nightlife. One reason most visitors come is for the nightlife. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one week here.

Detroit 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 Coach Bus Tours in United States of America, The Best Adventure Tours to United States of America, The Best Train & Rail Tours in United States of America, and The Best Sightseeing Tours in United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Detroit or Myrtle Beach?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Myrtle Beach is $173, while the average daily cost in Detroit is $133. 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 Myrtle Beach and Detroit in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Myrtle Beach $88
    Detroit $64
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Myrtle Beach $176
    Detroit $128
Compare Hotels in Myrtle Beach and Detroit

Looking for a hotel in Myrtle Beach or Detroit? 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 Myrtle Beach


Hotels in Detroit


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: Myrtle Beach Hotel Prices and Detroit Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Myrtle Beach $24
    Detroit $37

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Myrtle Beach

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Myrtle Beach:

  • Private Departure Transfer to Myrtle Beach Airport (MYR): $36
  • Private Arrival Transfer from Myrtle Beach Airport MYR: $36
  • Myrtle Beach to Myrtle Beach Intl. Airport (MYR) - Departure Private Transfer: $53
  • Myrtle Beach Intl. Airport (MYR) to Myrtle Beach - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $105

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Detroit

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

  • Departure Private Transfer: Detroit to Detroit Airport DTW in Business Car: $99
  • Departure Private Transfer: Detroit to Detroit Airport DTW in Luxury SUV: $130
  • Detroit Airport (DTW) to Detroit City - Arrival Private Transfer: $94
  • Detroit Airport (DTW) to Detroit City - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $187
  • Detroit City to Detroit Airport (DTW) - Departure Private Transfer: $94
  • Private Arrival Transfer - from Detroit Airport (DTW) by SUV: $90
  • Private Departure Transfer - to Detroit Airport (DTW) by SUV: $90
  • Private Departure Transfer to Detroit Airport DTW: $61
  • Private Transfer from Detroit (DTW) Airport to Detroit City: $142
  • Private Transfer from Detroit City to Detroit (DTW) Airport: $142

Is it cheaper to fly into Myrtle Beach or Detroit?

Prices for flights to both Detroit and Myrtle Beach 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
    Myrtle Beach $56
    Detroit $44
Typical Food Prices in Myrtle Beach

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for food and meal costs in Myrtle Beach:


  • Dinner for Two
    $49
  • Diner Breakfast for Two
    $21

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Myrtle Beach

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Myrtle Beach.

  • Murder Mystery Dinner Show in Myrtle Beach: $50
  • Polynesian Fire Luau and Dinner Show Ticket in Myrtle Beach: $67
  • North Dinner Cruise on a Paddle Wheel Boat: $70
  • Luau with Polynesian Dinner and Live Show: $71

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Detroit

For Detroit, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Fresh Mediterranean Inspired Cooking Class in a Unique Detroit Home: $104

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Myrtle Beach $46
    Detroit $21
Typical Entertainment Prices in Myrtle Beach

Here are a few typical costs in Myrtle Beach for activities, ticket prices, and tours that come from previous visitors:


  • Mini Golf for Two
    $18
  • Beach Chairs
    $15

Tours and Activities in Myrtle Beach

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

  • 2-Hour Guided Segway Tour of Huntington Beach State Park in Myrtle Beach: $69
  • Day Trip to Charleston Tour #5: Bus Tour, Boone Plantation, Lunch and More: $120
  • Day Trips to Charleston#7 See Ft Sumter,CarriageTour,Lunch & more: $215
  • Early Myrtle Beach History and The WWII Years Trolley Tour: $40
  • Friday Night Flights Local Beer Tour in Myrtle Beach: $90
  • From Charleston Tour with Boone Hall & Cruise: $173
  • Kayak Salt Marsh Maze Tour: $45
  • Murder Mystery Detective Experience Myrtle Beach, SC: $15
  • Murrells Inlet: Saltwater Marsh Shelling & Eco Tour: $32
  • Murrells Inlet: Scenic Sunset Cruise: $29
  • Myrtle Beach Area Ghosts, Pirates and Historic Families Trolley Tour: $40
  • Myrtle Beach Dolphin Cruise Murrells Inlet: $50

Tours and Activities in Detroit

For Detroit, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • Spirit and History Self Guided Audio Tour: $6.50
  • Self Guided "Detroit's Spirit and History" Solo Walking Tour: $7.75
  • Detroit Tigers Baseball Game Ticket at Comerica Park: $9.31
  • Scavenger Hunt Adventure in Ann Arbor by Wacky Walks: $10
  • Scavenger Hunt Adventure in Ann Arbor by Crazy Dash: $10
  • Scavenger Hunt Adventure Self-Guided City Game: $10
  • Scavenger Hunt Adventure in Windsor by Wacky Walks: $10
  • Ann Arbor Scavenger Hunt: Ann Arbor Adventure: $12
  • Murder Mystery Detective Experience Ann Arbor, MI: $15
  • Experience the season with a scavenger hunt in Ann Arbor with Holly Jolly Hunt: $20
  • SEA LIFE Michigan Aquarium Admission Ticket: $25
  • Ghosts and Spirits Haunted Walking Tour: $26

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Myrtle Beach $16
    Detroit $20


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

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


Which is Bigger, Myrtle Beach or Detroit?

Detroit has a larger population, and is about 40 times larger than the population of Myrtle Beach. When comparing the sizes of Myrtle Beach and Detroit, 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 Myrtle Beach or Detroit?

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 Myrtle Beach or Detroit in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Myrtle Beach as well as Detroit. The beaches, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Myrtle Beach this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Detroit for the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Myrtle Beach is generally a little warmer than Detroit. Daily temperatures in Myrtle Beach average around 81°F (27°C), and Detroit fluctuates around 74°F (24°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Detroit. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Myrtle Beach this time of the year. In the summer, Myrtle Beach often gets less sunshine than Detroit. Myrtle Beach gets 283 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Detroit receives 319 hours of full sun.

Myrtle Beach receives a lot of rain in the summer. Myrtle Beach usually gets more rain in July than Detroit. Myrtle Beach gets 8.1 inches (207 mm) of rain, while Detroit receives 3.4 inches (85 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Myrtle Beach 81°F (27°C) 
    Detroit 74°F (24°C)

Should I visit Myrtle Beach or Detroit in the Autumn?

Both Detroit and Myrtle Beach are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Myrtle Beach for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene. Also, many visitors come to Detroit in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the music scene.

Myrtle Beach is much warmer than Detroit in the autumn. The daily temperature in Myrtle Beach averages around 65°F (18°C) in October, and Detroit fluctuates around 54°F (12°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Myrtle Beach. Myrtle Beach usually receives more sunshine than Detroit during autumn. Myrtle Beach gets 227 hours of sunny skies, while Detroit receives 172 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Myrtle Beach usually receives more rain than Detroit. Myrtle Beach gets 2.7 inches (68 mm) of rain, while Detroit receives 2.3 inches (58 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Myrtle Beach 65°F (18°C) 
    Detroit 54°F (12°C)

Should I visit Myrtle Beach or Detroit in the Winter?

Both Detroit and Myrtle Beach during the winter are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Myrtle Beach in the winter for the shopping scene and the cuisine. Furthermore, most visitors come to Detroit for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Detroit can be very cold during winter. In the winter, Myrtle Beach is much warmer than Detroit. Typically, the winter temperatures in Myrtle Beach in January average around 45°F (7°C), and Detroit averages at about 25°F (-4°C).

In the winter, Myrtle Beach often gets more sunshine than Detroit. Myrtle Beach gets 180 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Detroit receives 120 hours of full sun.

Myrtle Beach usually gets more rain in January than Detroit. Myrtle Beach gets 3.9 inches (98 mm) of rain, while Detroit receives 2 inches (50 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Myrtle Beach 45°F (7°C) 
    Detroit 25°F (-4°C)

Should I visit Myrtle Beach or Detroit in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Myrtle Beach and Detroit. Most visitors come to Myrtle Beach for the beaches and the activities around the city during these months. Furthermore, the spring months attract visitors to Detroit because of the activities around the city.

In April, Myrtle Beach is generally much warmer than Detroit. Daily temperatures in Myrtle Beach average around 62°F (17°C), and Detroit fluctuates around 49°F (9°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Detroit this time of the year. In Myrtle Beach, it's very sunny this time of the year. Myrtle Beach usually receives more sunshine than Detroit during spring. Myrtle Beach gets 278 hours of sunny skies, while Detroit receives 223 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Myrtle Beach usually receives less rain than Detroit. Myrtle Beach gets 2.9 inches (73 mm) of rain, while Detroit receives 3.2 inches (80 mm) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Myrtle Beach 62°F (17°C) 
    Detroit 49°F (9°C)

Typical Weather for Detroit and Myrtle Beach

Myrtle Beach Detroit
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 45°F (7°C) 3.9 inches (98 mm) 25°F (-4°C) 2 inches (50 mm)
Feb 48°F (9°C) 3.7 inches (94 mm) 27°F (-3°C) 2.1 inches (54 mm)
Mar 55°F (13°C) 3.9 inches (99 mm) 37°F (3°C) 2.8 inches (72 mm)
Apr 62°F (17°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm) 49°F (9°C) 3.2 inches (80 mm)
May 70°F (21°C) 4.4 inches (113 mm) 60°F (16°C) 3 inches (76 mm)
Jun 77°F (25°C) 6 inches (152 mm) 70°F (21°C) 3.8 inches (97 mm)
Jul 81°F (27°C) 8.1 inches (207 mm) 74°F (24°C) 3.4 inches (85 mm)
Aug 80°F (26°C) 6.9 inches (176 mm) 73°F (23°C) 3.4 inches (86 mm)
Sep 75°F (24°C) 5 inches (128 mm) 65°F (19°C) 3.4 inches (87 mm)
Oct 65°F (18°C) 2.7 inches (68 mm) 54°F (12°C) 2.3 inches (58 mm)
Nov 57°F (14°C) 3.1 inches (79 mm) 43°F (6°C) 3 inches (75 mm)
Dec 49°F (9°C) 3.6 inches (92 mm) 31°F (-1°C) 3.2 inches (82 mm)