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

Should you visit Orlando or Boise?

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

Should I visit Orlando or Boise? 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 active, family-friendly, and entertaining city. It's also popular because of the food, shopping, and theater.

Boise

Boise is a friendly, welcoming, and authentic city. Other reasons to visit include nightlife, shopping, and museums.

Orlando and Boise: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Numerous theater shows
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • 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
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for food
  • Less family-friendly
  • Less popular with couples


Is there more to do in Orlando or Boise?

You'll generally find more things to do in Orlando than Boise. Orlando is bigger than Boise, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Orlando is better known for its theatre productions, food, resorts, and shopping, while Boise is more popular for its museums. Orlando is more touristy than Boise and is known for being the home of Walt Disney World, Universal Orlando, and many other theme parks and family-friendly activities. Also, Orlando is famous for Disney World, Universal Studios, and the city's many amusement parks. Boise is well known for its many outdoor and recreational activities.

How is Orlando different from Boise?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Orlando
Boise

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

Boise is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. As the state capital, there's a nice selection of local museums around town. Favorites include the Boise Art Museum, the Basque Museum & Cultural Center, the Idaho Black History Museum, and Discovery Center.

Orlando does not have museums and landmarks.


Is Orlando or Boise Better for Theater?

Orlando
Boise

Orlando is a popular place for its shows and theatre. However, Boise is not a theatre destination.

You'll find a nice selection of shows 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.

Boise is not a theatre destination.

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

Orlando
Boise

Orlando is an excellent place to visit for its restaurants. However, Boise is lacking in options for its restaurant scene.

Orlando has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. 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.

Boise offers some easy restaurants to choose from. While Idaho has long been associated with the potato, the locals usually think of "finger steaks" when describing local food. These are deep-friend beef strips that are as good as they sound.

Is Orlando or Boise Better for Nightlife?

Orlando
Boise

The vibe at night is notable in both Orlando and Boise.

If you're looking for night time activities Orlando has a few options to choose from. 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.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Boise. In downtown Boise you'll find a selection of bars, lounges, and breweries. There's enough around town to keep the nightlife scene interesting.


Is Orlando or Boise Better for Resorts?

Orlando
Boise

Orlando is a must-visit destination for its luxury resorts. However, Boise is not a resort destination.

For the ultimate resort vacation, Orlando is a great choice. 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.

Boise is not a resort destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Orlando or Boise?

Orlando
Boise

Orlando is an excellent place to visit for its shopping areas. Also, Boise is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for shopping.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in Orlando. 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.

Boise is a great destination for shopping. You'll find a mix of local boutiques, independent vendors, and suburban shopping centers where you'll find anything that you might need.

Is Orlando or Boise Better for Christmas?

Orlando
Boise

Orlando is a must-visit destination for its Christmas holiday experiences. However, Boise does not offer Christmas activities.

Known for its popular Christmas activities, Orlando draws large crowds. Christmas at Disney World is lots of fun. There are decorations and all kinds of seasonal activities around town.

Boise does not offer Christmas activities.


Is Orlando or Boise Better for Families?

Orlando
Boise

Orlando is a must-visit destination for its kid-friendly activities. However, Boise is lacking in options for its family-friendly activities.

As it has a large number of activities for kids, Orlando is a very family-friendly destination. 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.

Boise doesn't usually come to mind when thinking about kid-friendly destinations. You'll find parks, playgrounds, and the Discovery Center which will help keep kids entertained.

Is Orlando or Boise Better for Couples?

Orlando
Boise

Orlando is a popular place for couples. However, Boise is lacking in options for romance.

Orlando is a good city for couples to visit. 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.

Boise is not the best destination for a couple to visit. Date night activities include dining at a nice restaurants and seeing a show at the theater.

Is Orlando or Boise Better for Students?

Orlando
Boise

Orlando is a popular place for its student-friendly activities. However, Boise is not popular with students.

Plenty of students visit Orlando. 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.

Boise is not popular with students.


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

Orlando
Boise

Orlando and Boise both offer respectable 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 Boise. There are infrequent buses around town, but visitors usually have a car to get around town efficiently.

Is Orlando or Boise a more walkable city?

Orlando
Boise

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

Boise is generally not a very walkable city. There are a couple of walkable neighborhoods but, in general, the town isn't very walkable.

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 Boise Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Boise or Orlando?

How long in Orlando or Boise?

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Orlando than Boise 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 Boise? Ideal Length of Stay
    Orlando 7 
    Boise 1-2

One day in Orlando or Boise?

In Orlando, many people enjoy the shopping and theater that this family-friendly destination offers. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

In Boise, you'll find museums and nightlife. This city 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 Boise?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Orlando. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. Most people find that a weekend is more than enough time to see everything. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

In Boise, you'll find nightlife and shopping. 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 Boise has to offer.

Five days in Orlando or Boise?

Orlando is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the destination of Orlando. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

Boise 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 Boise?

You'll find food and shopping around the entertaining destination of Orlando. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Boise. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Boise. 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 2-Week Tours in United States of America, The Best 3-Week Tours in United States of America, The Best Bicycle Tours in United States of America, and Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Boise 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 Boise is $146. 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 Boise in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Orlando $154
    Boise $75
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Orlando $308
    Boise $150
Compare Hotels in Orlando and Boise

Looking for a hotel in Orlando or Boise? 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 Boise


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 Boise Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Orlando $66
    Boise $34
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:

  • Try find your better than us ! Airport transfer service in Orlando APT-HTL (MCO): $96
  • Transfer in private minivan Orlando downtown -Orlando Airport (MCO): $60
  • Transfer from Orlando International Airport to Central Florida: $115
  • Sanford Intl. Airport (SFB) to Hotels near Universal - Arrival Private Transfer: $87
  • SUV Transfer TO or FROM MCO to Lake Buena Vista (Disney Hotels): $145
  • RoundTrip transfer in private minivan Orlando Airport (MCO) -Orlando downtown: $127
  • Private transfer Orlando Airport - Hotels in Disney and Universal: $47
  • Private Transfers from Port Canaveral to Disney Hotels: $250
  • Private Transfer: Sanford Airport to Lake Buena Vista Resort Area: $75
  • Private Transfer: Orlando Airport MCO to Legoland in Luxury SUV: $152
  • Private Transfer: Lake Buena Vista Resort to MCO Airport in SUV: $111
  • Private Transfer to Disney Area Hotels from MCO airport: $48

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Boise

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

  • Boise Air Terminal Airport One Way Transfer : $80

Is it cheaper to fly into Orlando or Boise?

Prices for flights to both Boise 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
    Boise $45
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
  • Dinner at the Hard Rock Cafe with Live Music: $58
  • Downtown Murder Mystery Walking Dinner Tour: $66
  • Sleuth's Mystery Dinner Show, Orlando: $69
  • Polynesian Fire Luau with Dinner and Live Show: $75
  • Pirates Dinner Adventure - Top Orlando Dinner Attraction: $78
  • Teatro Martini Dinner Show in Orlando: $79
  • Food Tour of Local Orlando's Ivanhoe Village : $89

Typical Food Prices in Boise

For Boise, here are some examples of average food and meal prices for travelers:


  • Hotel
    $59
  • Cracker Barrel Lunch (for 4)
    $55

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Orlando $204
    Boise $30
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.

  • 2 HR Interactive Walking Ghost Tour in Downtown Orlando: $77
  • Everglades Airboat Tour near Orlando Florida: $89
  • 16 mile Heli Tour Over Disney Spring, Epcot, Hollywood Studios: $86
  • 2 Hour Historical Wildlife Tour of the Chain of Lakes: $42
  • 2 Hour Investigative Walking Ghost Tour of Downtown Orlando: $50
  • 2 Hour Kissimmee St. Cloud Self-Guided Lakefront Tour on EBike: $36
  • 2-hr. Kissimmee and St. Cloud Beach Tour on Fully Electric Trike: $44
  • 25 Minutes Adventure Rooms in Max Action Arena ICON Park: $12
  • 3- or 4-Park Magic Ticket at Walt Disney World Resort: $284
  • 4-hr. Kissimmee and St. Cloud Beach Tour on Fully Electric Trike: $85
  • 8-Hour Automatic Polaris Slingshot SL Adventure Rental: $300
  • 90 Minute Pontoon Cruise in Florida: $70

Typical Entertainment Prices in Boise

Below are a few sample prices from actual travelers for Boise's activities, tours, and tickets:


  • Edwards Boise Imax
    $27

Tours and Activities in Boise

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

  • A Macabre History of Boise Walking Tour: $25
  • Boise Scavenger Hunt Adventure: $21
  • Boise Scavenger Hunt and Sights Self-Guided Tour: $13
  • Boise Scavenger Hunt and Sights Self-Guided Tour: $13
  • Scavenger Hunt Adventure Self-Guided City Game: $10
  • Hells Canyon Kirkwood Jet Boat Tour near Boise, Idaho: $218
  • Scavenger Hunt Adventure in Boise by 3Quest Challenge: $10

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Orlando $30
    Boise $24

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
  • Happy Hour Downtown Pub Crawl: $170
  • Chef's Table and Wine Tasting Tour: $300


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

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


Which is Bigger, Orlando or Boise?

Orlando has a larger population, and is about 42% larger than the population of Boise. When comparing the sizes of Orlando and Boise, 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.