A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Orlando vs. Myrtle Beach for Nightlife, Resorts, Families, and Food

Should you visit Orlando or Myrtle Beach?

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

Should I visit Orlando or Myrtle Beach? 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. Other popular activities here include shopping, theater, and nightlife.

Myrtle Beach

Myrtle Beach is a jam-packed, high energy, and party-filled beach city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. Other reasons to visit include nightlife and beaches.

Orlando and Myrtle Beach: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Orlando or Myrtle Beach?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Orlando than Myrtle Beach, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Orlando is better known for its theatre productions, food, resorts, and shopping, while Myrtle Beach is more popular for its nightlife, beaches, and big city activities. Orlando is well 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. Myrtle Beach is well known for its party-hard atmosphere, spring break crowds, and beachfront nightlife scene.

How is Orlando different from Myrtle Beach?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Orlando or Myrtle Beach Better for Theater?

Orlando is very good for its shows and theatre. However, Myrtle Beach 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.

Myrtle Beach is not a theatre destination.

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

Orlando is a great destination for its restaurant scene. However, Myrtle Beach is a beach city with minimal options for its local flavors and cuisine.

Dining out in Orlando is an experience not to be missed. 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.

Myrtle Beach offers some easy restaurants to choose from. Slices of pizza and seafood buffets are the most common options in the area. There are also themed restaurants and dinner shows that make for a fun night, even if the food isn't the highest quality.

Is Orlando or Myrtle Beach Better for Nightlife?

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

Myrtle Beach is a destination that you simply have to visit at least once for nightlife. This beach is famous for its nightlife. From all-night bars and clubs, to music concerts and outdoor venues, there's no shortage of things to do. Bachelor and Bachelorette parties and spring break crowds make this the place to be for a party.

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 Myrtle Beach Better for Resorts?

Orlando is a world-class destination for its resorts. However, Myrtle Beach is a beach city with minimal options for its luxury resorts.

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.

Myrtle Beach has a few resort options worth checking out. While there are a handful of resorts in the area, like the popular Marriott Vacation Club, most hotels are crowded and lacking in space.

Is Orlando or Myrtle Beach Better for Beaches?

Myrtle Beach is great for its beaches. However, Orlando is not a beach destination.

Myrtle Beach is considered a top beach destination. Most people head to the center of town and boardwalk for the nightlife and vibrant activities more than the actual beach. The stretches north and south have nice beaches lined with hotels and resorts, and a much more family-friendly atmosphere. If you want a more relaxed beach setting without the huge crowds, check out Myrtle Beach State Park.

Orlando is not a beach destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Orlando or Myrtle Beach?

Orlando is a great destination for its shopping areas. However, Myrtle Beach is a beach city with minimal options for shopping.

Browsing through shops is a popular activity 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.

Myrtle Beach is a good destination for shopping. The town is filled with souvenir shops, t-shirt shops, and candy vendors that make shopping entertaining.

Is Orlando or Myrtle Beach Better for Christmas?

Orlando is a world-class destination for its Christmas activities. However, Myrtle Beach 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.

Myrtle Beach does not offer Christmas activities.

Is Orlando or Myrtle Beach Better for Families?

Orlando is a world-class destination for its family-friendly activities. However, Myrtle Beach is a beach city with minimal options 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.

For families, Myrtle Beach is not always the best place to visit. While this area isn't generally considered a family destination, there are some newer vacation clubs and resorts that cater specifically to families and have become popular. The Marriott Vacation Club is one of the most popular with families in Myrtle Beach.

Is Orlando or Myrtle Beach Better for Couples?

With fun activities for couples, both Orlando and Myrtle Beach make for a notable 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.

Myrtle Beach makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. The beach area isn't exactly a romantic destination but for couples who enjoy going out and having fun together, there is no shortage of night time activities.

Is Orlando or Myrtle Beach Better for Students?

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

Myrtle Beach is a very popular beach city for students and younger travelers. University students flock to the area for spring break and end of year celebrations. If you're a student during those times, this is the place to be, otherwise, the area is best avoided.

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 Myrtle Beach Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Orlando is a city with a few options for its public transit. However, Myrtle Beach is a beach city with minimal options 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 Myrtle Beach. There are no real public transit options so you'll need a car to get around.

Is Orlando or Myrtle Beach a more walkable city?

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

Myrtle Beach is generally not a very walkable beach city. By the Boardwalk, it's easy to walk around, but traffic can still be congested and once you're out of the main strip, a car is essential.

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 Myrtle Beach Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Myrtle Beach or Orlando?

How long in Orlando or Myrtle Beach?

Both Orlando and Myrtle Beach have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Myrtle Beach than in Orlando. Usually, 7 days is a good amount of time for Orlando, and 2-7 days is enough time in Myrtle Beach.

Families should spend more time in Orlando than Myrtle Beach. 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 Myrtle Beach. 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 Myrtle Beach 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 Myrtle Beach.

One day in Orlando or Myrtle Beach?

In Orlando, many people enjoy the food and shopping that this family-friendly city offers. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

In Myrtle Beach, you'll find nightlife. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. One reason most visitors come is for the nightlife. This beach 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 Myrtle Beach?

Orlando is a fun place to experience. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring.

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

Five days in Orlando or Myrtle Beach?

You'll find theater and nightlife 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. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days.

Myrtle Beach is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Myrtle Beach has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

A week in Orlando or Myrtle Beach?

Orlando is a popular place to visit. It's also a relaxing resort destination. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Myrtle Beach. In Myrtle Beach, you'll find nightlife. One reason most visitors come is for the nightlife. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one week here.

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 Myrtle Beach, we can see that Orlando is more expensive. And not only is Myrtle Beach much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Myrtle Beach would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Myrtle Beach 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 Myrtle Beach.

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

Which is Bigger, Orlando or Myrtle Beach?

Orlando has a larger population, and is about 8 times larger than the population of Myrtle Beach. When comparing the sizes of Orlando and Myrtle Beach, 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 Myrtle Beach?

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 Myrtle Beach in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Orlando as well as Myrtle Beach. The family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Orlando this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Myrtle Beach for the beaches, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Orlando is generally around the same temperature as Myrtle Beach. Daily temperatures in Orlando average around 82°F (28°C), and Myrtle Beach fluctuates around 81°F (27°C).

It's quite rainy in Myrtle Beach. Orlando receives a lot of rain in the summer. Orlando usually gets around the same amount of rain in July as Myrtle Beach. Orlando gets 8.3 inches (211 mm) of rain, while Myrtle Beach receives 8.1 inches (207 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Orlando or Myrtle Beach in the Autumn?

Both Myrtle Beach and Orlando are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Orlando for the shopping scene. Also, many visitors come to Myrtle Beach in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene.

Orlando is a little warmer than Myrtle Beach in the autumn. The daily temperature in Orlando averages around 75°F (24°C) in October, and Myrtle Beach fluctuates around 65°F (18°C).

It's quite rainy in Orlando. In October, Orlando usually receives more rain than Myrtle Beach. Orlando gets 4.1 inches (103 mm) of rain, while Myrtle Beach receives 2.7 inches (68 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Orlando or Myrtle Beach in the Winter?

Both Myrtle Beach and Orlando during the winter are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Orlando in the winter for the Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine. Furthermore, most visitors come to Myrtle Beach for the shopping scene and the cuisine during these months.

In the winter, Orlando is much warmer than Myrtle Beach. Typically, the winter temperatures in Orlando in January average around 59°F (15°C), and Myrtle Beach averages at about 45°F (7°C).

Orlando usually gets less rain in January than Myrtle Beach. Orlando gets 2.3 inches (58 mm) of rain, while Myrtle Beach receives 3.9 inches (98 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Orlando or Myrtle Beach in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Orlando and Myrtle Beach. Furthermore, the spring months attract visitors to Myrtle Beach because of the beaches and the activities around the city.

In April, Orlando is generally a little warmer than Myrtle Beach. Daily temperatures in Orlando average around 72°F (22°C), and Myrtle Beach fluctuates around 62°F (17°C).

In April, Orlando usually receives around the same amount of rain as Myrtle Beach. Orlando gets 2.7 inches (69 mm) of rain, while Myrtle Beach receives 2.9 inches (73 mm) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Myrtle Beach and Orlando