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

Should you visit Orlando or Dallas?

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

Should I visit Orlando or Dallas? 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 entertaining, active, and family-friendly city. And you can't forget about the nightlife, food, and shopping.

Dallas

Dallas is a active, upscale, and chic city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. Other reasons to visit include museums, nightlife, and food.

Orlando and Dallas: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Orlando or Dallas?

Travelers will generally find more things to do in Orlando than Dallas. While Dallas is larger than Orlando, Orlando has more sights and attractions for tourists. Orlando is very popular for its theatre productions and resorts, while Dallas attracts visitors for its museums, nightlife, and big city activities. Orlando is more touristy than Dallas 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 well known for Disney World, Universal Studios, and the city's many amusement parks. Dallas is famous for its Tex Mex cuisine, upscale shopping venues, and cowboy culture.

How is Orlando different from Dallas?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Dallas offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. Museums range from historical to art and science with some of the favorites being the Dallas Contemporary Museum, the African American Museum, the Dallas Museum of Art, and the Frontiers of Flight Museum. The city is also home to the George W. Bush Presidential Library and the Nasher Sculpture Center. A must-see is the Sixth Floor Museum, which is in historic Dealey Plaza and is where Lee Harvey Oswald fired the shots that killed JFK. Today there's a museum that goes over the events of that day.

Orlando does not have museums and landmarks.

Is Orlando or Dallas Better for Theater?

Orlando is very good for its theatre productions. However, Dallas 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.

Dallas is not a theatre destination.

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

There are opportunities to sample the local cuisine at great restaurants in both Orlando and Dallas.

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 Dallas. There's a perfect combination of Texas cuisine and international flavors. You'll find Texas barbecue, Tex Mex, and steakhouses intermixed with Thai, Japanese, and Caribbean cuisine. There's also a great food truck scene and many local eateries.

Is Orlando or Dallas Better for Nightlife?

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

Many people head to Dallas for the nightlife scene. Head to East Dallas for the most active clubs with large dance floors and great music. The city also has rooftop lounges and plenty of live music as well as comedy clubs.

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 Dallas Better for Resorts?

Orlando is renowned for its resorts. However, Dallas is not a resort destination.

If you're looking for a fantastic resort destination, Orlando is a perfect 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.

Dallas is not a resort destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Orlando or Dallas?

If you're looking to go shopping, Orlando and Dallas both offer plenty of great spots.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting 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.

Dallas is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. You'll find a very diverse shopping scene around town, with everything from quirky local vendors to upscale fashion boutiques. There are cowboy outfitters where you can get a feel for the Texas style, but there are also posh shopping centers and local flea markets.

Is Orlando or Dallas Better for Christmas?

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

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

Dallas does not offer Christmas activities.

Is Orlando or Dallas Better for Families?

Orlando is renowned for its family-friendly activities. Also, Dallas is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

Orlando is one of the most popular family destinations. 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.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Dallas. The city is filled with families, and you'll find many kid-friendly activities around town. For some outdoor time you can visit the Rory Meyers Children's Adventure Garden or the Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden. The Dallas Zoo is a favorite for many kids and there are also a number of kid-friendly museums around town such as the Perot Museum of Nature and Science and the Dallas World Aquarium.

Is Orlando or Dallas Better for Couples?

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

Dallas is a great city if you're traveling as a couple. Head to the observation deck at Reunion Tower for spectacular views of the night skyline. The city also has many great comedy clubs and performing arts venues as well as fine dining restaurants that make for a great 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 Dallas Better for Students?

Orlando is very good for students. However, Dallas is not a good city for its student-friendly activities.

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.

Dallas is a decent spot for students. There are a couple of universities and colleges in the area that keep things interesting for students.

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

Dallas is a popular place for times when you don't have a car. However, Orlando is not a good destination for its public transit.

While Dallas offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. While it's still very much a car-centered city, the public transportation system, DART, is one of the fastest growing in the country. It includes both light rail and bus service.

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.

Is Orlando or Dallas a more walkable city?

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

Dallas is generally not a very walkable city. The city is not particularly walkable, but there are several more walkable areas such as Ellum and Uptown.

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 Dallas Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Dallas or Orlando?

How long in Orlando or Dallas?

It's fun to spend time in either Orlando or Dallas. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Dallas due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 7 days is a good amount of time for Orlando, and 2-4 days is enough time in Dallas.

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

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

One day in Orlando or Dallas?

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 Dallas, you'll find nightlife and food. 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 Dallas?

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 Dallas, you'll find food 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 Dallas has to offer.

Five days in Orlando or Dallas?

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.

Dallas 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 Dallas?

Travelers enjoy the shopping and theater when visiting the family-friendly 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 Dallas. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Dallas. 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.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Orlando or Dallas?

Dallas has a larger population, and is about 6 times larger than the population of Orlando. When comparing the sizes of Orlando and Dallas, 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 Dallas?

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 Dallas in the Summer?

Both Dallas and Orlando during the summer are popular places to visit. The family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Orlando this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Dallas for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Orlando is around the same temperature as Dallas. Typically, the summer temperatures in Orlando in July average around 82°F (28°C), and Dallas averages at about 88°F (31°C).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Orlando. Orlando usually gets more rain in July than Dallas. Orlando gets 8.3 inches (211 mm) of rain, while Dallas receives 2.4 inches (60 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Orlando or Dallas in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Orlando and Dallas. Many travelers come to Orlando for the shopping scene. Furthermore, many visitors come to Dallas in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene.

In October, Orlando is generally a little warmer than Dallas. Daily temperatures in Orlando average around 75°F (24°C), and Dallas fluctuates around 69°F (21°C).

Orlando gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In October, Orlando usually receives around the same amount of rain as Dallas. Orlando gets 4.1 inches (103 mm) of rain, while Dallas receives 3.9 inches (98 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Orlando or Dallas in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Orlando as well as Dallas. Many visitors come to Orlando in the winter for the Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine. Additionally, most visitors come to Dallas for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Orlando is much warmer than Dallas in the winter. The daily temperature in Orlando averages around 59°F (15°C) in January, and Dallas fluctuates around 46°F (8°C).

Orlando usually gets more rain in January than Dallas. Orlando gets 2.3 inches (58 mm) of rain, while Dallas receives 1.8 inches (45 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Orlando or Dallas in the Spring?

Both Dallas and Orlando are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Dallas because of the activities around the city.

In the spring, Orlando is around the same temperature as Dallas. Typically, the spring temperatures in Orlando in April average around 72°F (22°C), and Dallas averages at about 68°F (20°C).

In April, Orlando usually receives less rain than Dallas. Orlando gets 2.7 inches (69 mm) of rain, while Dallas receives 3.9 inches (98 mm) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Dallas and Orlando