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

Should you visit Nantucket 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 Nantucket and Detroit can help you decide which place is right for you.

Nantucket

Nantucket is a serene, peaceful, and upscale island. It offers plenty of small town charm along with sights and activities, too. The beauty of Nantucket is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Visitors also love the food, beaches, and hiking. See Nantucket travel costs.

Detroit

Detroit is a under-rated, hardworking, and overlooked city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. Other reasons to visit include shopping, museums, and nightlife. See Detroit travel costs.

Nantucket and Detroit: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Nice resorts
  • Popular beach
  • Scenic old town
  • Good for hiking
  • Known for its beauty
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Small town charm
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with backpackers
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Family-friendly
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for food
  • Less popular with couples
  • Less popular with backpackers


Is there more to do in Nantucket or Detroit?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Nantucket. Although Nantucket and Detroit are popular destinations, Nantucket has more sights and attractions for tourists. Nantucket is very popular for its food, resorts, beaches, historical sights, hiking, shopping, small town charm, and impressive beauty, while Detroit attracts visitors for its nightlife, music, and big city activities. Nantucket is more touristy than Detroit and is known for its pristine beaches, upscale atmosphere, and history of whaling. It is also well known for Great Point Lighthouse. Detroit is famous for its Motown music, blue collar atmosphere, and influential auto industry.

How is Nantucket different from Detroit?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Nantucket or Detroit?

Nantucket
Detroit

Spend time exploring the nice sights and museums in either Nantucket or Detroit.

Nantucket is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. There are several museums around town that educate visitors on the island's whaling history and maritime past.

Detroit offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. Popular museums around town include the Detroit Institute of Arts, the Detroit Historical Museum, and the Michigan Science Center.


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

Nantucket
Detroit

Nantucket is an unbeatable place for its restaurants. Also, Detroit is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

Known for it's food and restaurant scene, Nantucket is always at the top of any foodie's travel list. Upscale eateries where you can look out on the water make dining on this island a true experience. There are raw bars, seafood restaurants, and local cafes with elaborate salads and duck carnitas. Dishes usually use the highest quality fresh ingredients and chefs bring their "A game" with every customer.

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.

Is Nantucket or Detroit Better for Nightlife?

Nantucket
Detroit

Detroit is a great city for nightlife. Also, Nantucket is not as popular, but is still a nice island for nightlife and partying.

The nightlife in Detroit has something for everybody. 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.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Nantucket. You'll find a number of bars and a lively singles scene in town. There's also live music and a laid back but active atmosphere in the evening.

Is Nantucket or Detroit Better for Music?

Nantucket
Detroit

Detroit is renowned for live music. However, Nantucket is not a live music destination.

Detroit is known as a music capital around the world. 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.

Nantucket is not a live music destination.


Is Nantucket or Detroit Better for Resorts?

Nantucket
Detroit

Nantucket is a very popular place for its luxury resorts. However, Detroit is not a resort destination.

Nantucket is a popular resort destination that attracts visitors from everywhere. Luxury resorts and upscale inns offer guests a relaxed setting with oceanfront views and family-friendly activities.

Detroit is not a resort destination.

Is Nantucket or Detroit Better for Beaches?

Nantucket
Detroit

Nantucket is a very popular place for the beach. However, Detroit is not a beach destination.

You'll have a great beach vacation in Nantucket. You'll find the calmest water at the northern beaches, and cooler water with rougher surf to the south. Many of the beaches are accessible from town, but parking can be limited. There are both public and private beaches, each with beautiful settings and relaxing vibes.

Detroit is not a beach destination.

Is Nantucket or Detroit Better for its Old Town?

Nantucket
Detroit

Nantucket is a very popular place for its old town. However, Detroit does not have a historic old town.

Many visitors go to Nantucket to see the historical old town. The Historic District is filled with New England charm, cobblestone streets, and upscale boutiques. There are many great restaurants and a lot of historic character.

Detroit does not have a historic old town.


Is Nantucket or Detroit Better for Hiking?

Nantucket
Detroit

Nantucket is a very popular place for its hiking trails. However, Detroit is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors explore the nearby hiking trails while visiting Nantucket. The island is easy to explore on foot, and its covered with hiking trails that follow the serene coastline or take you through forests, bogs, and marshland.

Detroit is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Nantucket or Detroit?

Nantucket
Detroit

Nantucket is a very popular place for its shopping opportunities. Also, Detroit is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its shopping areas.

Nantucket is well-known for its shopping. The Historic District is filled with boutiques, art galleries, and upscale shops. It's the perfect place to spend an afternoon wandering around and 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.

Is Nantucket or Detroit More Beautiful?

Nantucket
Detroit

Nantucket is a very popular place for its scenery and beauty. However, Detroit is not a destination known for its beauty.

The beauty of Nantucket is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Natural beauty and charming character make this a picturesque destination.

Detroit is not a destination known for its beauty.


Is Nantucket or Detroit Better for Families?

Nantucket
Detroit

Nantucket is a very popular place for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Detroit is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Nantucket is very family-friendly. There's a calm beach that's perfect for kids as well as quaint ice cream shops and plenty of New England charm. The town is also filled with hiking and biking trails.

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.

Is Nantucket or Detroit Better for Couples?

Nantucket
Detroit

Nantucket is an unbeatable place for its romantic activities. However, Detroit is lacking in good options for couples.

Nantucket has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. The New England charm, natural beauty, and relaxing coastal atmosphere make this a perfect romantic destination. There are also many romantic places to stay and great local restaurants.

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

Nantucket
Detroit

Nantucket is a nice place to visit for times when you don't have a car. However, Detroit is lacking in good options for its public transit.

Nantucket has some public transit options. There are shuttle buses around the island that operate with greater frequency during the summer months.

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


Is Nantucket or Detroit a more walkable city?

Nantucket
Detroit

Nantucket is a very popular place for its high level of walkability. Also, Detroit is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its ease of walking around.

Nantucket is a very walkable island. The town is very walkable and parking can be challenging, so it's best to leave your car in the ferry parking lot.

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

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

Should I spend more time in Detroit or Nantucket?

How long in Nantucket or Detroit?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Nantucket and Detroit. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Nantucket than in Detroit. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Nantucket, and 1-3 days is enough time in Detroit.

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

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

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


  • How many days in Nantucket or Detroit? Ideal Length of Stay
    Nantucket 2-4 
    Detroit 1-3

One day in Nantucket or Detroit?

Nantucket is a small town with plenty to do. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. One reason most visitors come is for the food. This island offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

You'll find nightlife and live music around the city of Detroit. One day is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Detroit has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A weekend in Nantucket or Detroit?

Nantucket might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One reason most visitors come is for the food. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Nantucket has to offer.

You'll find live music and food around the hardworking destination of Detroit. 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 Nantucket or Detroit?

Nantucket is a great place to explore. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

Travelers enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the overlooked city of Detroit. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Most people head to the area for the live music. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in Nantucket or Detroit?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Nantucket. Since Nantucket is a small town, it's easily explored when your time is limited. One reason most visitors come is for the food. It's also a relaxing resort destination. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

Detroit is a popular choice for travelers. 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 2-Week Tours from San Francisco, The Best 2-Week Tours from Los Angeles, The Best Family-Friendly Tours to United States of America, and The Best Wildlife Tours to United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Detroit or Nantucket?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations. These travel costs come from the actual spending of real travelers.

  • Nantucket Prices
    USA Prices
    Detroit Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Nantucket $409
    Detroit $165

The average daily cost (per person) in Nantucket is $409, while the average daily cost in Detroit is $165. 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 Nantucket and Detroit in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Nantucket $237
    Detroit $64
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Nantucket $474
    Detroit $128
Compare Hotels in Nantucket and Detroit

Looking for a hotel in Nantucket 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 Nantucket


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: Nantucket Hotel Prices and Detroit Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Nantucket $47
    Detroit $37

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Detroit

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

  • Detroit Airport (DTW) to Detroit City - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $183
  • Private Transfer from Detroit (DTW) Airport to Detroit City: $155
  • Private Transfer from Detroit City to Detroit (DTW) Airport: $155
  • Departure Private Transfer: Detroit to Detroit Airport DTW in Luxury SUV: $142
  • Departure Private Transfer: Detroit to Detroit Airport DTW in Business Car: $108
  • Detroit City to Detroit Airport (DTW) - Departure Private Transfer: $92
  • Detroit Airport (DTW) to Detroit City - Arrival Private Transfer: $92
  • Private Departure Transfer - to Detroit Airport (DTW) by SUV: $90
  • Private Departure Transfer to Detroit Airport DTW: $61

Is it cheaper to fly into Nantucket or Detroit?

Prices for flights to both Detroit and Nantucket 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
    Nantucket $141
    Detroit $76

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Detroit

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

  • Secret Food Tour with Tastings: $80
  • Detroit Downtown Food Tour: 6+ Iconic Tastings in Motor City: $95
  • Detroit Flavors Food Tour: $150
  • Delicious in Detroit Food Tour: $159

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Nantucket $34
    Detroit $21

Tours and Activities in Nantucket

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

  • Beyond the Cobblestones Self Guided Audio Tour of Nantucket: $9.99
  • Beyond the Cobblestones Self Guided Walking Tour of Nantucket: $9.99
  • Discover Nantucket Self-Guided Biking or Driving Tour: $13
  • Historical Tour of Nantucket: $57
  • Nantucket Coast to Coast Self-Guided Biking or Driving Tour: $13
  • Downtown Walking Tour: $120
  • Guided Bike Tour: $160
  • Guided Scenic Island Driving Tour: $160
  • Historical Landmarks Sightseeing Bus Tour: $53

Tours and Activities in Detroit

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

  • Ann Arbor Scavenger Hunt Interactive Walking Tour: $35
  • Best Detroit Walking Tour: $105
  • Best Downtown Detroit Historical Walking Tour: $100
  • Chauffeured Historic Tour of Detroit with Flexibility : $65
  • Detroit Drunks of Antiquity Historic Bar Tour : $65
  • Detroit Food Walking Tour: $159
  • Detroit Guided Pedicab Tour Explore the City in Comfort: $125
  • Detroit Pistons Basketball Game Ticket at Little Caesars Arena: $23
  • Detroit Private Sightseeing Tour with Daily Chauffeur: $3,000
  • Detroit Red Wings Ice Hockey Game Ticket at Little Caesars Arena: $11
  • Detroit's Hidden History Guided Walking Tour: $35
  • Architectural Beauty and Hidden Gems Walking Tour: $120

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Nantucket $35
    Detroit $20


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Nantucket and Detroit, we can see that Nantucket 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 Nantucket would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Nantucket 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 Nantucket Expensive? and Is Detroit Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Nantucket or Detroit?

Detroit has a larger population, and is about 60 times larger than the population of Nantucket. When comparing the sizes of Nantucket 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 Nantucket or Detroit?

Both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. And since both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Nantucket or Detroit in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Nantucket and Detroit. The beaches, the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Nantucket this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Detroit for the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Nantucket is cooler than Detroit. Typically, the summer temperatures in Nantucket in July average around 68°F (20°C), and Detroit averages at about 74°F (24°C).

In July, Nantucket usually receives more rain than Detroit. Nantucket gets 3.8 inches (96 mm) of rain, while Detroit receives 3.4 inches (85 mm) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Nantucket 68°F (20°C) 
    Detroit 74°F (24°C)

Should I visit Nantucket or Detroit in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Nantucket as well as Detroit. Many travelers come to Nantucket for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, many visitors come to Detroit in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the music scene.

In October, Nantucket is generally around the same temperature as Detroit. Daily temperatures in Nantucket average around 53°F (12°C), and Detroit fluctuates around 54°F (12°C).

Nantucket receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Nantucket usually gets more rain in October than Detroit. Nantucket gets 4.4 inches (111 mm) of rain, while Detroit receives 2.3 inches (58 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Nantucket 53°F (12°C) 
    Detroit 54°F (12°C)

Should I visit Nantucket or Detroit in the Winter?

Both Detroit and Nantucket are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Nantucket in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Detroit for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Detroit can be very cold during winter. Nantucket can get quite cold in the winter. Nantucket is much warmer than Detroit in the winter. The daily temperature in Nantucket averages around 31°F (-0°C) in January, and Detroit fluctuates around 25°F (-4°C).

It's quite rainy in Nantucket. In January, Nantucket usually receives more rain than Detroit. Nantucket gets 4.2 inches (106 mm) of rain, while Detroit receives 2 inches (50 mm) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Nantucket 31°F (-0°C) 
    Detroit 25°F (-4°C)

Should I visit Nantucket or Detroit in the Spring?

Both Detroit and Nantucket during the spring are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Nantucket for the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty during these months. Furthermore, the spring months attract visitors to Detroit because of the activities around the city.

In the spring, Nantucket is cooler than Detroit. Typically, the spring temperatures in Nantucket in April average around 45°F (7°C), and Detroit averages at about 49°F (9°C).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Nantucket. Nantucket usually gets more rain in April than Detroit. Nantucket gets 4.1 inches (103 mm) of rain, while Detroit receives 3.2 inches (80 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Nantucket 45°F (7°C) 
    Detroit 49°F (9°C)

Typical Weather for Detroit and Nantucket

Nantucket Detroit
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 31°F (-0°C) 4.2 inches (106 mm) 25°F (-4°C) 2 inches (50 mm)
Feb 32°F (-0°C) 4.6 inches (117 mm) 27°F (-3°C) 2.1 inches (54 mm)
Mar 38°F (3°C) 4 inches (102 mm) 37°F (3°C) 2.8 inches (72 mm)
Apr 45°F (7°C) 4.1 inches (103 mm) 49°F (9°C) 3.2 inches (80 mm)
May 53°F (12°C) 3.9 inches (99 mm) 60°F (16°C) 3 inches (76 mm)
Jun 62°F (17°C) 3.6 inches (91 mm) 70°F (21°C) 3.8 inches (97 mm)
Jul 68°F (20°C) 3.8 inches (96 mm) 74°F (24°C) 3.4 inches (85 mm)
Aug 68°F (20°C) 3.1 inches (78 mm) 73°F (23°C) 3.4 inches (86 mm)
Sep 62°F (17°C) 4.2 inches (106 mm) 65°F (19°C) 3.4 inches (87 mm)
Oct 53°F (12°C) 4.4 inches (111 mm) 54°F (12°C) 2.3 inches (58 mm)
Nov 46°F (8°C) 3.8 inches (96 mm) 43°F (6°C) 3 inches (75 mm)
Dec 36°F (2°C) 4.5 inches (115 mm) 31°F (-1°C) 3.2 inches (82 mm)