A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Orlando vs. Austin for Food, Nightlife, Families, and Backpackers

Should you visit Orlando or Austin?

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

Should I visit Orlando or Austin? 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.

Orlando

Orlando is a family-friendly, entertaining, and active city. It's also known for shopping, theater, and nightlife.

Austin

Austin is a entrepreneurial, eccentric, and unconventional city. It's also a big city with many activities. This is beautiful destination to visit. Other reasons to visit include food, shopping, and museums.

Orlando and Austin: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Orlando or Austin?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Austin than Orlando, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Austin is more popular for its museums, food, nightlife, music, hiking, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Orlando is known for its theatre productions, resorts, and shopping. Orlando is more touristy than Austin and is popular for being the home of Walt Disney World, Universal Orlando, and many other theme parks and family-friendly activities. Austin is popular for its live music scene, excellent Texas barbecue, authentic Mexican food, and vibrant student population. It is also home to The Texas Capital.

How is Orlando different from Austin?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Orlando or Austin?

Austin is great for its historical sights. However, Orlando does not have museums and landmarks.

Austin offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. Austin has a number of great museums and sights including the Blanton Museum of Art, the Mexic-Arte Museum, and the Bob Bullock Texas State History Museum. There's also a huge supply of local art galleries. Perhaps the most notable landmark in town is the beautiful Texas Capital Building

Orlando does not have museums and landmarks.

Is Orlando or Austin Better for Theater?

Orlando is a nice place to visit for theatre. However, Austin is not a theatre destination.

With some theater and performance venues, you might want to see a show in Orlando. 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.

Austin is not a theatre destination.

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

Austin is renowned for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Orlando is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its local cuisine and restaurants.

For foodies, Austin is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. It is credited with being the original food truck city and you'll find many diverse food truck options around town. There is also amazing Mexican food, world renowned Texas barbecue, and many modern restaurants that reflect the city's culinary influence.

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.

Is Orlando or Austin Better for Nightlife?

Austin is renowned for nightlife. Also, Orlando is not as popular, but is still a nice city for nightlife and partying.

Austin is a destination that you simply have to visit at least once for nightlife. It's nightlife is centered around its thriving live music scene. Head for Sixth Street for some of the most popular bars and clubs. There are also many music festivals and outdoor concerts, particularly during the summer months. Popular bars and clubs around town include the White Horse, the Rose Room, and Antone's Nightclub.

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 Orlando or Austin Better for Music?

Austin is renowned for live music. However, Orlando is not a live music destination.

Austin is known as a music capital around the world. Music is what gives this city its character. There are many live music venues, concerts, and music festivals to experience. Austin has influenced many music genres such as rock, blues, jazz, hip hop, punk, and country.

Orlando is not a live music destination.

Is Orlando or Austin Better for Resorts?

Orlando is a world-class destination for its resorts. However, Austin is not a resort destination.

Orlando offers an unforgettable resort vacation. 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.

Austin is not a resort destination.

Is Orlando or Austin Better for Hiking?

Austin is adequate for hiking. However, Orlando is not a hiking destination.

Austin has hiking trails if you want to get outside. Head just outside of town to explore a few great hiking spots right near town.

Orlando is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Orlando or Austin?

Orlando is a great destination for shopping. Also, Austin is still popular, but not quite as popular for its shopping opportunities.

Orlando is an extremely popular place for shoppers. 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.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Austin. There are a number of local boutiques around town where you can enjoy shopping.

Is Orlando or Austin Better for Christmas?

Orlando is a world-class destination for its Christmas activities. However, Austin does not offer Christmas activities.

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

Austin does not offer Christmas activities.

Is Orlando or Austin Better for Families?

Orlando is a world-class destination for its family-friendly activities. Also, Austin is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

Orlando is an amazing family-friendly city to visit. 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.

Austin offers lots of family activities. The city is a popular destination for young travelers, but there are also some family-friendly activities like Barton Springs, Zilker Park, and several natural swimming holes. There's a number of nice parks around town that are great for kids of all ages.

Is Orlando or Austin Better for Couples?

With fun activities for couples, both Orlando and Austin make for a good place to visit.

Orlando is a nice destination for couples. 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.

Austin makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Young couples will enjoy the city for its lively nightlife, fun music scene, and youthful vibe. There are also many outdoor areas where you can hike or explore. The restaurant scene is among the best as well.

Is Orlando or Austin Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Austin is great for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Orlando is not a good destination for backpackers.

Austin is very popular with the backpacker crowd. Although the city is relatively small, it does see a disproportionate number of backpackers. There are a couple of hostels in town as well.

Orlando is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. It's not exactly a backpacker destination, but there are a surprising number of cheap motels that aren't affiliated with the major parks.

Is Orlando or Austin Better for Students?

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

Austin is a very popular city for students and younger travelers. The city has a huge university, the University of Texas at Austin, and it is a young city with tons for international students. There is a great nightlife scene and plenty for students to see and do.

Orlando is a good city 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 Orlando or Austin Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Orlando and Austin both offer decent public transit to get you around.

Public transit is mostly 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 generally limited in Austin. There are city buses and a very limited lightrail system, but you really need a car to explore the city.

Is Orlando or Austin a more walkable city?

Austin is adequate for its walkability. However, Orlando is not a good destination for its high level of walkability.

Austin is generally not a very walkable city. The city, like most southern cities, isn't very walkable and it's important to have a car to get around. There are some downtown areas that are pedestrian-friendly.

Orlando is not a walkable city. 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 Orlando Worth Visiting? and Is Austin Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Austin or Orlando?

How long in Orlando or Austin?

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

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

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

One day in Orlando or Austin?

Many travelers enjoy the theater and nightlife when visiting the destination of Orlando. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

In Austin, you'll find shopping and museums. This city offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

A weekend in Orlando or Austin?

Orlando is a great place to explore. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

In Austin, you'll find museums and nightlife. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Austin has to offer.

Five days in Orlando or Austin?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Orlando. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Austin is a great place to explore. 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.

A week in Orlando or Austin?

Travelers enjoy the shopping and theater when visiting the active destination of Orlando. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Austin. Many people enjoy the live music and food when visiting Austin. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Historical Tours in United States of America, The Best 10-Day Tours in United States of America, The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in United States of America, and The Best 2-Week Tours in United States of America.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Orlando or Austin?

Austin has a larger population, and is about 3 times larger than the population of Orlando. When comparing the sizes of Orlando and Austin, 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 Orlando or Austin?

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 Orlando or Austin in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Orlando as well as Austin. Many travelers come to Orlando for the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Austin in the summer for the hiking, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

Orlando is around the same temperature as Austin in the summer. The daily temperature in Orlando averages around 82°F (28°C) in July, and Austin fluctuates around 87°F (30°C).

Orlando receives a lot of rain in the summer. Orlando usually gets more rain in July than Austin. Orlando gets 8.3 inches (211 mm) of rain, while Austin receives 1.9 inches (48 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Orlando or Austin in the Autumn?

Both Austin and Orlando are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Orlando in the autumn for the shopping scene. Also, most visitors come to Austin for the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

In the autumn, Orlando is around the same temperature as Austin. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Orlando in October average around 75°F (24°C), and Austin averages at about 73°F (23°C).

It's quite rainy in Orlando. In October, Orlando usually receives more rain than Austin. Orlando gets 4.1 inches (103 mm) of rain, while Austin receives 3 inches (77 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Orlando or Austin in the Winter?

Both Austin and Orlando during the winter are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Orlando for the Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine during these months. Furthermore, the winter months attract visitors to Austin because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

In January, Orlando is generally a little warmer than Austin. Daily temperatures in Orlando average around 59°F (15°C), and Austin fluctuates around 51°F (11°C).

Orlando usually gets more rain in January than Austin. Orlando gets 2.3 inches (58 mm) of rain, while Austin receives 1.9 inches (48 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Orlando or Austin in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Orlando and Austin. Furthermore, the activities around the city and the natural beauty are the main draw to Austin this time of year.

Orlando is around the same temperature as Austin in the spring. The daily temperature in Orlando averages around 72°F (22°C) in April, and Austin fluctuates around 71°F (22°C).

In April, Orlando usually receives less rain than Austin. Orlando gets 2.7 inches (69 mm) of rain, while Austin receives 3.5 inches (89 mm) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Austin and Orlando