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

Should you visit Orlando or Beaufort?

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

Should I visit Orlando or Beaufort? 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 nightlife, food, and shopping.

Beaufort

Beaufort is a southern, charming, and historic town. With plenty of activities and sights, this is a small town worth visiting. It's a gorgeous place to visit. Since it has a quaint atmosphere, you'll want to spend time soaking it all in. Other reasons to visit include museums, food, and beaches.

Orlando and Beaufort: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Numerous theater shows
  • Active nightlife
  • Nice resorts
  • Popular at Christmas
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for students
  • Home to Disney World, Universal Studios, and the city's many amusement parks
Things to Consider
  • Less walkable
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular beach
  • Scenic old town
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Very walkable
  • Small town charm
  • Quaint atmosphere
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less family-friendly


Is there more to do in Orlando or Beaufort?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Orlando. Although Orlando and Beaufort are both popular with visitors, Orlando has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Orlando is more popular for its theatre productions, nightlife, resorts, and shopping, while Beaufort is known for its museums, beaches, historical sights, small town charm, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere. Orlando is more touristy than Beaufort and is popular for being the home of Walt Disney World, Universal Orlando, and many other theme parks and family-friendly activities. It is also home to Disney World, Universal Studios, and the city's many amusement parks. Beaufort is popular for its Lowcountry cuisine and historic homes.

How is Orlando different from Beaufort?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Beaufort 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 Beaufort?

Orlando
Beaufort

Beaufort is a popular place for its historical sights. However, Orlando does not have museums and landmarks.

Beaufort is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. The town's museums highlight the region's past. There are four popular museums that you can visit - the Beaufort History Museum, Parris Island Museum, Verdier House Museum, and York W. Bailey Museum.

Orlando does not have museums and landmarks.


Is Orlando or Beaufort Better for Theater?

Orlando
Beaufort

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

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

Beaufort is not a theatre destination.

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

Orlando
Beaufort

There are opportunities to sample the local cuisine at very good restaurants in both Orlando and Beaufort.

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in 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.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Beaufort. Soak up the charming atmosphere by dining at one of the local restaurants. Many serve Lowcountry cuisine which includes She-crab soup, fried green tomatoes, shrimp burgers, and barbecue.

Is Orlando or Beaufort Better for Nightlife?

Orlando
Beaufort

Orlando is a nice place to visit for nightlife. However, Beaufort is a mediocre town for nightlife and partying.

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.

Those looking for nightlife will find a few places to hang out in Beaufort. You'll find bars, grills, and taverns in town, but most people don't visit for the nightlife scene.


Is Orlando or Beaufort Better for Resorts?

Orlando
Beaufort

Orlando is renowned for its resorts. However, Beaufort 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.

Beaufort is not a resort destination.

Is Orlando or Beaufort Better for Beaches?

Orlando
Beaufort

Beaufort is a popular place for its beaches. However, Orlando is not a beach destination.

Beaufort is a good option for a beach vacation. The town has a nice waterfront, but you have to head about half an hour out of town for a real beach. One of the best options is Hunting Island State Park.

Orlando is not a beach destination.

Is Orlando or Beaufort Better for its Old Town?

Orlando
Beaufort

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

Many visitors explore the old town while visiting Beaufort. Historic homes, some that were built before the Civil War, offer a glimpse into the past. Beaufort is the second oldest town in South Carolina and it holds on to much of its charm and character.

Orlando does not have a historic old town.


Is the Shopping Better in Orlando or Beaufort?

Orlando
Beaufort

Orlando is notable for shopping. Also, Beaufort is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit 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 Beaufort. Head downtown for some souvenir shopping or to check out the art galleries or fashion boutiques.

Is Orlando or Beaufort Better for Christmas?

Orlando
Beaufort

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

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

Beaufort does not offer Christmas activities.

Is Orlando or Beaufort Better for Families?

Orlando
Beaufort

Orlando is renowned for its family-friendly activities. However, Beaufort is a mediocre town 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.

Beaufort is not always a place people visit with their families. There are parks and outdoor activities in the area, but one of the best options is to head out of town to the beach.


Is Orlando or Beaufort Better for Couples?

Orlando
Beaufort

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

Beaufort is a great town if you're traveling as a couple. There are many charming and romantic spots around town as well as historic inns where you can stay. Couples will enjoy the waterfront area or exploring one of the nature parks that are nearby. There are also quaint local restaurants that make for a nice date night.

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

Is Orlando or Beaufort Better for Students?

Orlando
Beaufort

Orlando is a nice place to visit for students. However, Beaufort is not popular with students.

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.

Beaufort is not popular with students.

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

Orlando
Beaufort

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

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

Public transit is quite limited in Beaufort. There is no reliable public transportation system in the area.


Is Orlando or Beaufort a more walkable city?

Orlando
Beaufort

Beaufort is great for its walkability. However, Orlando is not a good destination for its high level of walkability.

Beaufort is very walkable. The quaint downtown is walkable and offers easy access to art galleries, restaurants, and shops.

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 Beaufort Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Beaufort or Orlando?

How long in Orlando or Beaufort?

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

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

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


  • How many days in Orlando or Beaufort? Ideal Length of Stay
    Orlando 7 
    Beaufort 1-3

One day in Orlando or Beaufort?

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

Beaufort is a small town with plenty to do. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. This town offers something for everyone. This would be the perfect place to spend one day, as it has just the right amount of activities.

A weekend in Orlando or Beaufort?

Orlando is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. A weekend 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. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Beaufort 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. Visiting the old town is also a must. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Beaufort has to offer.


Five days in Orlando or Beaufort?

Orlando 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.

Beaufort is a great place to explore. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. 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 Beaufort?

Orlando is a great place to explore. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Beaufort. Since Beaufort is a small town, it's easily explored when your time is limited. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. 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 One Week (7-Day) Tours in United States of America, The Best 2-Week Tours in United States of America, The Best 3-Week Tours in United States of America, and The Best Bicycle Tours in United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Beaufort or Orlando?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Orlando is $321, while the average daily cost in Beaufort is $131. 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 Orlando and Beaufort in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Orlando $154
    Beaufort $100
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Orlando $308
    Beaufort $200
Compare Hotels in Orlando and Beaufort

Looking for a hotel in Orlando or Beaufort? 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 Orlando


Hotels in Beaufort


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: Orlando Hotel Prices and Beaufort Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Orlando $66
    Beaufort -
Typical Local Transportation Prices in Orlando

Some typical examples of transportation costs in Orlando are as follows:


  • Parking
    $14
  • Taxi Ride
    $45

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Orlando

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

  • Transfer: Lake Buena Vista Area Hotels to Orlando Airport (MCO): $19
  • Port Canaveral Cruise Terminal Transfers: $34
  • Train Transfer to Miami: $44
  • Private transfer Orlando Airport - Hotels in Disney and Universal: $47
  • Orlando Airport (MCO) to Orlando - Arrival Private Transfer: $50
  • Lakeland / Winter Haven to Tampa Airport (TPA) - Departure Private Transfer: $53
  • Hotel near Universal to Sanford Intl. Airport (SFB) - Departure Private Transfer: $55
  • Transfer in private minivan Orlando downtown -Orlando Airport (MCO): $60
  • Private Transfer Orlando Airport to Port Canaveral or Cocoa: $60
  • Orlando Airport: Private Transfer From Airport to Orlando: $63
  • Private Transfer between MCO Airport and Downtown Orlando: $66
  • Orlando MCO Airport: 1-Way Private Transfer to Kissimmee: $67

Is it cheaper to fly into Orlando or Beaufort?

Prices for flights to both Beaufort and Orlando 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
    Orlando $65
    Beaufort $31
Typical Food Prices in Orlando

Here are some examples of typical meal expenses from previous travelers to Orlando:


  • Lunch for Two at Epcot
    $29

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Orlando

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

  • The Outta Control Magic Comedy Dinner Show: $38
  • Tastes of the World Food Tour in Winter Haven : $50
  • Señor Frogs Lunch / Dinner Package: $50
  • Dinner at the Hard Rock Cafe with Live Music: $58
  • Downtown Murder Mystery Walking Dinner Tour: $66
  • Polynesian Fire Luau with Dinner and Live Show: $75
  • Pirates Dinner Adventure - Top Orlando Dinner Attraction: $78
  • Food Tour of Local Orlando's Ivanhoe Village : $89

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Orlando $204
    Beaufort -
Typical Entertainment Prices in Orlando

For Orlando, here are some examples of average entertainment and activity prices from previous travelers:


  • Universal Studios for Two
    $110

Tours and Activities in Orlando

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

  • Self-Guided Walking Audio Tour around Lake Eola in Orlando: $6.65
  • Scavenger Hunt Adventure City Game on Your Phone: $10
  • Orlando Icon Park Adventure Room Ticket: $12
  • 25 Minutes Adventure Rooms in Max Action Arena ICON Park: $12
  • 7-D Dark Ride Entry Ticket: $12
  • Skip the Line: Museum of Military History Ticket: $12
  • Lonely Dog Immersive Art Storytelling Experience: $15
  • Old Town Entertainment District Attraction Tickets: $15
  • Pirate's Cove Adventure Golf Entry Ticket: $18
  • Pirate's Cove Adventure Golf Entry Ticket in Orlando: $18
  • West Orange Trail 10 Mile Private Bike Tour & Scavenger Hunt: $20
  • Chocolate Kingdom Factory Adventure Tour: $22

Tours and Activities in Beaufort

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

  • Beaufort Tipsy Tour: $55
  • Gullah Heritage Tour: $49
  • Historic City Tour by Bus: $29
  • Pat Conroy's Beaufort Tour by Golf Cart: $40

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Orlando $30
    Beaufort -

Sample the Local Flavors in Orlando

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Orlando:

  • Orlando Virtual Bar Crawl & Scavenger Hunt: $12
  • Orlando Haunts Boos and Booze Haunted Pub Crawl: $35
  • Pontoon Pub Crawl, 5 Lakeside Pubs and Restaurants Visit by Boat: $85


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

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


Which is Bigger, Orlando or Beaufort?

Orlando has a larger population, and is about 20 times larger than the population of Beaufort. When comparing the sizes of Orlando and Beaufort, 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 Beaufort?

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 Beaufort in the Summer?

Both Beaufort and Orlando during the summer are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Orlando for the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Beaufort in the summer for the beaches, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences.

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

Beaufort gets a good bit of rain this time of year. It rains a lot this time of the year in Orlando. Orlando usually gets around the same amount of rain in July as Beaufort. Orlando gets 8.3 inches (211 mm) of rain, while Beaufort receives 7.9 inches (200 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Orlando 82°F (28°C) 
    Beaufort 82°F (28°C)

Should I visit Orlando or Beaufort in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Orlando and Beaufort. Many visitors come to Orlando in the autumn for the shopping scene. Also, most visitors come to Beaufort for the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

In the autumn, Orlando is a little warmer than Beaufort. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Orlando in October average around 75°F (24°C), and Beaufort averages at about 68°F (20°C).

Orlando gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In October, Orlando usually receives more rain than Beaufort. Orlando gets 4.1 inches (103 mm) of rain, while Beaufort receives 2.8 inches (71 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Orlando 75°F (24°C) 
    Beaufort 68°F (20°C)

Should I visit Orlando or Beaufort in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Orlando as well as Beaufort. Most visitors come to Orlando for the Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Beaufort because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

In January, Orlando is generally much warmer than Beaufort. Daily temperatures in Orlando average around 59°F (15°C), and Beaufort fluctuates around 48°F (9°C).

Orlando usually gets less rain in January than Beaufort. Orlando gets 2.3 inches (58 mm) of rain, while Beaufort receives 2.9 inches (74 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Orlando 59°F (15°C) 
    Beaufort 48°F (9°C)

Should I visit Orlando or Beaufort in the Spring?

Both Beaufort and Orlando are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Also, the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty are the main draw to Beaufort this time of year.

Orlando is a little warmer than Beaufort in the spring. The daily temperature in Orlando averages around 72°F (22°C) in April, and Beaufort fluctuates around 67°F (19°C).

In April, Orlando usually receives around the same amount of rain as Beaufort. Orlando gets 2.7 inches (69 mm) of rain, while Beaufort receives 2.9 inches (74 mm) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Orlando 72°F (22°C) 
    Beaufort 67°F (19°C)

Typical Weather for Beaufort and Orlando

Orlando Beaufort
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 59°F (15°C) 2.3 inches (58 mm) 48°F (9°C) 2.9 inches (74 mm)
Feb 62°F (16°C) 3 inches (75 mm) 52°F (11°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm)
Mar 67°F (19°C) 3.5 inches (88 mm) 58°F (15°C) 4.4 inches (112 mm)
Apr 72°F (22°C) 2.7 inches (69 mm) 67°F (19°C) 2.9 inches (74 mm)
May 77°F (25°C) 3 inches (75 mm) 73°F (23°C) 4.2 inches (107 mm)
Jun 81°F (27°C) 7.1 inches (181 mm) 80°F (26°C) 5.9 inches (150 mm)
Jul 82°F (28°C) 8.3 inches (211 mm) 82°F (28°C) 7.9 inches (200 mm)
Aug 82°F (28°C) 6.7 inches (171 mm) 81°F (27°C) 6.5 inches (164 mm)
Sep 81°F (27°C) 7.2 inches (183 mm) 77°F (25°C) 5.6 inches (141 mm)
Oct 75°F (24°C) 4.1 inches (103 mm) 68°F (20°C) 2.8 inches (71 mm)
Nov 68°F (20°C) 1.6 inches (40 mm) 59°F (15°C) 1.9 inches (49 mm)
Dec 62°F (17°C) 1.9 inches (48 mm) 52°F (11°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm)