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

Should you visit Orlando or Detroit?

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

Should I visit Orlando or Detroit? 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. Visitors also love the food, shopping, and theater.

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 food, shopping, and museums.

Orlando and Detroit: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Numerous theater shows
  • Active nightlife
  • Nice resorts
  • Popular at Christmas
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for students
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with backpackers
  • Less walkable
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Very walkable
Things to Consider
  • Less family-friendly
  • Less popular with couples
  • Less popular with backpackers


Is there more to do in Orlando or Detroit?

Both Detroit and Orlando have plenty of things to do for visitors. Both offer a variety of sights, activities, and attractions for tourists. Orlando is very popular for its theatre productions, food, resorts, and shopping, while Detroit attracts visitors for its museums, nightlife, music, and big city activities. Orlando is more touristy than Detroit and is known for being the home of Walt Disney World, Universal Orlando, and many other theme parks and family-friendly activities. Detroit is famous for its Motown music, blue collar atmosphere, and influential auto industry.

How is Orlando different from Detroit?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Orlando
Detroit

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

Detroit is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. Popular museums around town include the Detroit Institute of Arts, the Detroit Historical Museum, and the Michigan Science Center.

Orlando does not have museums and landmarks.


Is Orlando or Detroit Better for Theater?

Orlando
Detroit

Orlando is a nice place to visit for its theatre productions. However, Detroit 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.

Detroit is not a theatre destination.

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

Orlando
Detroit

Orlando is a very popular place for its restaurants. Also, Detroit is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

Orlando has a huge number of terrific 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.

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 Orlando or Detroit Better for Nightlife?

Orlando
Detroit

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

Many people head to Detroit for the nightlife scene. 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 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 Detroit Better for Music?

Orlando
Detroit

Detroit is renowned for live music. However, Orlando 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.

Orlando is not a live music destination.

Is Orlando or Detroit Better for Resorts?

Orlando
Detroit

Orlando is an unbeatable place for its luxury resorts. However, Detroit 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.

Detroit is not a resort destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Orlando or Detroit?

Orlando
Detroit

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

Orlando is well-known for its shopping. 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.

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 Orlando or Detroit Better for Christmas?

Orlando
Detroit

Orlando is an unbeatable place for its Christmas holiday experiences. However, Detroit does not offer Christmas activities.

Orlando offers plenty of sights and activities around Christmas. Christmas at Disney World is lots of fun. There are decorations and all kinds of seasonal activities around town.

Detroit does not offer Christmas activities.

Is Orlando or Detroit Better for Families?

Orlando
Detroit

Orlando is an unbeatable place for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Detroit is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-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.

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 Orlando or Detroit Better for Couples?

Orlando
Detroit

Orlando is a nice place to visit for its romantic activities. However, Detroit is lacking in good options for couples.

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.

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 Orlando or Detroit Better for Students?

Orlando
Detroit

Orlando is a nice place to visit for its student-friendly activities. However, Detroit 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.

Detroit is not popular with students.

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

Orlando
Detroit

Orlando and Detroit both offer reasonable 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 Detroit. There's a streetcar and bus system, but the car is still king in Motor City.

Is Orlando or Detroit a more walkable city?

Orlando
Detroit

Detroit is a popular place for its walkability. However, Orlando is not a good destination for its high level of walkability.

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

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 Detroit Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Detroit or Orlando?

How long in Orlando or Detroit?

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

Families should spend more time in Orlando than Detroit. 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 Detroit. 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 Detroit 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 Detroit.


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

One day in Orlando or Detroit?

In Orlando, you'll find nightlife and food. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. This city offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

In Detroit, you'll find shopping and museums. One reason most visitors come is for the live music. 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 Detroit?

You'll find food and shopping around the entertaining destination of Orlando. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. A weekend is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days.

In Detroit, you'll find museums and nightlife. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. One reason most visitors come is for the live music. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Detroit has to offer.

Five days in Orlando or Detroit?

Orlando 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.

Detroit 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 Detroit?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Orlando. Many people enjoy the theater and nightlife when visiting Orlando. It's also a relaxing resort destination. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

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


Which place is cheaper, Detroit 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 Detroit is $133. 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 Detroit in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Orlando $154
    Detroit $64
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Orlando $308
    Detroit $128
Compare Hotels in Orlando and Detroit

Looking for a hotel in Orlando 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 Orlando


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: Orlando Hotel Prices and Detroit Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Orlando $66
    Detroit $37
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): $126
  • Transfer: Lake Buena Vista Area Hotels to Orlando Airport (MCO): $19
  • Transfer service in Orlando. MCO: $75
  • Transfer in private minivan Orlando downtown -Orlando Airport (MCO): $60
  • Transfer in private minivan Orlando Airport (MCO) - Orlando downtown: $63
  • Transfer from Orlando International Airport to Central Florida: $115
  • Sedan Transfer Orlando Airport to Disney Resort up to 4 Passengers: $150
  • Sanford to Orlando Sanford Intl. Airport (SFB) - Departure Private Transfer: $40
  • Sanford Intl. Airport (SFB) to Hotels near Universal - Arrival Private Transfer: $89
  • Sanford Intl. Airport (SFB) to Hotel near Universal - Roundtrip Private Transfer: $177
  • SUV Transfer TO or FROM MCO to Lake Buena Vista (Disney Hotels): $145
  • SUV Transfer From Orlando Airport to Lake Buena Vista Area Hotels: $150

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: $191
  • Private Transfer from Detroit (DTW) Airport to Detroit City: $144
  • Private Transfer from Detroit City to Detroit (DTW) Airport: $144
  • Departure Private Transfer: Detroit to Detroit Airport DTW in Luxury SUV: $132
  • Departure Private Transfer: Detroit to Detroit Airport DTW in Business Car: $101
  • Detroit City to Detroit Airport (DTW) - Departure Private Transfer: $95
  • Detroit Airport (DTW) to Detroit City - Arrival Private Transfer: $95
  • Private Arrival Transfer - from Detroit Airport (DTW) by SUV: $90
  • Private Departure Transfer - to Detroit Airport (DTW) by SUV: $90
  • Detroit - Wayne County Airport One Way Transfer : $80
  • Private Departure Transfer to Detroit Airport DTW: $61

Is it cheaper to fly into Orlando or Detroit?

Prices for flights to both Detroit 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
    Detroit $44
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, Orlando: $38
  • The Outta Control Magic Comedy Dinner Show: $38
  • Tastes of the World Food Tour in Winter Haven : $50
  • Downtown Murder Mystery Walking Dinner Tour: $66
  • Mango's LIVE! - Dinner & Show: $72
  • Polynesian Fire Luau with Dinner and Live Show: $75
  • Orlando Polynesian Fire Luau and Dinner Show Experience: $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

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Detroit

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

  • Fresh Mediterranean Inspired Cooking Class in a Unique Detroit Home: $104

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Orlando $204
    Detroit $21
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
  • 1 Hour Historical Wildlife Tour of The Famous Chain of Lakes: $27
  • 1 Hour Scenic Pontoon Day Cruise: $48
  • 1-Hour "Sky High" Zip Line Adventure Tour with 3 Zip Line Flights Included: $46
  • 16-Mile Helicopter Tour Over Kissimmee: $86
  • 2 Hour Historical Wildlife Tour of the Chain of Lakes: $42
  • 2 Hour Investigative Walking Ghost Tour of Downtown Orlando: $50
  • 2-hr. Kissimmee Lakefront Tour on a DELUXE Fully Electric Trike: $59
  • 25 Minutes Adventure Rooms in Max Action Arena ICON Park: $12
  • 3- or 4-Park Magic Ticket at Walt Disney World Resort: $284
  • 30 Days Self Guided Audio Tour: Discover Orlando Local Stories: $30

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: Ann Arbor Adventure: $12
  • Detroit Pistons Basketball Game Ticket at Little Caesars Arena: $19
  • Detroit Red Wings Ice Hockey Game Ticket at Little Caesars Arena: $61
  • Detroit Tigers Baseball Game Ticket at Comerica Park: $12
  • Architectural Beauty and Hidden Gems Walking Tour: $115
  • Detroit Pistons Basketball Game Ticket: $19
  • Ghosts and Spirits Haunted Walking Tour: $26
  • Scavenger Hunt Adventure Self-Guided City Game: $10
  • Spirit and History Self Guided Audio Tour: $6.50
  • Experience the season with a scavenger hunt in Ann Arbor with Holly Jolly Hunt: $20
  • LEGOLAND® Discovery Center Michigan Admission Ticket: $26
  • Motor City Ghosts Tour: $33

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Orlando $30
    Detroit $20

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
  • Sanford’s Haunted Brewery Tour: $43
  • Pontoon Pub Crawl, 5 Lakeside Pubs and Restaurants Visit by Boat: $85
  • 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 Detroit, we can see that Orlando 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 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 Detroit.

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


Which is Bigger, Orlando or Detroit?

Detroit has a larger population, and is about 5 times larger than the population of Orlando. When comparing the sizes of Orlando 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 Orlando 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 Orlando or Detroit in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Orlando and Detroit. Many travelers come to Orlando for the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, many visitors come to Detroit in the summer for the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Orlando is a little warmer than Detroit. Typically, the summer temperatures in Orlando in July average around 82°F (28°C), and Detroit averages at about 74°F (24°C).

Orlando gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In July, Orlando usually receives more rain than Detroit. Orlando gets 8.3 inches (211 mm) of rain, while Detroit receives 3.4 inches (85 mm) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Orlando 82°F (28°C) 
    Detroit 74°F (24°C)

Should I visit Orlando or Detroit in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Orlando as well as Detroit. Many visitors come to Orlando in the autumn for the shopping scene. Additionally, most visitors come to Detroit for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the music scene during these months.

In October, Orlando is generally much warmer than Detroit. Daily temperatures in Orlando average around 75°F (24°C), and Detroit fluctuates around 54°F (12°C).

Orlando receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Orlando usually gets more rain in October than Detroit. Orlando gets 4.1 inches (103 mm) of rain, while Detroit receives 2.3 inches (58 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Orlando 75°F (24°C) 
    Detroit 54°F (12°C)

Should I visit Orlando or Detroit in the Winter?

Both Detroit and Orlando are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. 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 Detroit because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

The weather in Detroit can be very cold. Orlando is much warmer than Detroit in the winter. The daily temperature in Orlando averages around 59°F (15°C) in January, and Detroit fluctuates around 25°F (-4°C).

In January, Orlando usually receives more rain than Detroit. Orlando gets 2.3 inches (58 mm) of rain, while Detroit receives 2 inches (50 mm) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Orlando 59°F (15°C) 
    Detroit 25°F (-4°C)

Should I visit Orlando or Detroit in the Spring?

Both Detroit and Orlando during the spring are popular places to visit. Also, the activities around the city are the main draw to Detroit this time of year.

In the spring, Orlando is much warmer than Detroit. Typically, the spring temperatures in Orlando in April average around 72°F (22°C), and Detroit averages at about 49°F (9°C).

Orlando usually gets less rain in April than Detroit. Orlando gets 2.7 inches (69 mm) of rain, while Detroit receives 3.2 inches (80 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Orlando 72°F (22°C) 
    Detroit 49°F (9°C)

Typical Weather for Detroit and Orlando

Orlando Detroit
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 59°F (15°C) 2.3 inches (58 mm) 25°F (-4°C) 2 inches (50 mm)
Feb 62°F (16°C) 3 inches (75 mm) 27°F (-3°C) 2.1 inches (54 mm)
Mar 67°F (19°C) 3.5 inches (88 mm) 37°F (3°C) 2.8 inches (72 mm)
Apr 72°F (22°C) 2.7 inches (69 mm) 49°F (9°C) 3.2 inches (80 mm)
May 77°F (25°C) 3 inches (75 mm) 60°F (16°C) 3 inches (76 mm)
Jun 81°F (27°C) 7.1 inches (181 mm) 70°F (21°C) 3.8 inches (97 mm)
Jul 82°F (28°C) 8.3 inches (211 mm) 74°F (24°C) 3.4 inches (85 mm)
Aug 82°F (28°C) 6.7 inches (171 mm) 73°F (23°C) 3.4 inches (86 mm)
Sep 81°F (27°C) 7.2 inches (183 mm) 65°F (19°C) 3.4 inches (87 mm)
Oct 75°F (24°C) 4.1 inches (103 mm) 54°F (12°C) 2.3 inches (58 mm)
Nov 68°F (20°C) 1.6 inches (40 mm) 43°F (6°C) 3 inches (75 mm)
Dec 62°F (17°C) 1.9 inches (48 mm) 31°F (-1°C) 3.2 inches (82 mm)