A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Orlando vs. Nags Head for Families, Food, Couples, and Backpackers

Should you visit Orlando or Nags Head?

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

Should I visit Orlando or Nags Head? 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. Other reasons to visit include theater, nightlife, and food.

Nags Head

Other reasons to visit include food.

Orlando and Nags Head: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Numerous theater shows
  • Active nightlife
  • Nice resorts
  • Fun shopping
  • Popular at Christmas
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for students
  • Good public transit
  • Home to Disney World, Universal Studios, and the city's many amusement parks
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with backpackers
Pros
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers


Is there more to do in Orlando or Nags Head?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Orlando. Although Orlando and Nags Head are both popular with visitors, Orlando has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Orlando is more touristy than Nags Head and is known 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. Nags Head is popular for

How is Orlando different from Nags Head?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Orlando or Nags Head Better for Theater?

Orlando
Nags Head

Orlando is a popular place for theatre. However, Nags Head is not a theatre destination.

If you have some extra time in Orlando, take in a show. 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.

Nags Head is not a theatre destination.


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

Orlando
Nags Head

Orlando is great for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Nags Head is not as popular, but is still a nice for its local cuisine and restaurants.

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.

Visitors will find a budding food and restaurant scene in Nags Head. There are a wide variety of seafood restaurants that serve locally caught fish, shrimp, and crabs. Cajon flavors are popular and you'll also find cheese grits at many places.

Is Orlando or Nags Head Better for Nightlife?

Orlando
Nags Head

Orlando is a popular place for nightlife. However, Nags Head is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

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.

Nags Head is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Is Orlando or Nags Head Better for Resorts?

Orlando
Nags Head

Orlando is an amazing city to visit for its luxury resorts. However, Nags Head 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.

Nags Head is not a resort destination.


Is the Shopping Better in Orlando or Nags Head?

Orlando
Nags Head

Orlando is great for shopping. However, Nags Head is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

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.

Nags Head is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Orlando or Nags Head Better for Christmas?

Orlando
Nags Head

Orlando is an amazing city to visit for its Christmas holiday experiences. However, Nags Head does not offer Christmas activities.

With so many activities, Orlando is a top place to visit during Christmas. Christmas at Disney World is lots of fun. There are decorations and all kinds of seasonal activities around town.

Nags Head does not offer Christmas activities.

Is Orlando or Nags Head Better for Families?

Orlando
Nags Head

Orlando is an amazing city to visit for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Nags Head is not as popular, but is still a nice 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.

Nags Head is a very kid-friendly city. It makes a wonderful base for the many family-friendly activities in the area. Jockey's Ridge is a fun place to visit with kids. There are also wonderful beaches and many kids enjoying flying kites.


Is Orlando or Nags Head Better for Couples?

Orlando
Nags Head

With fun activities for couples, both Orlando and Nags Head make for a good 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.

Nags Head makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. There are great seafood restaurants and a number of activities in the area that are fun for couples.

Is Orlando or Nags Head Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Orlando
Nags Head

Nags Head is a popular place for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Orlando is not a good destination for backpackers.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Nags Head. This is one of the more affordable places to stay in the Outer Banks, so it appeals to more budget-oriented travelers.

Orlando is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. It's not exactly a backpacker destination, but there are a surprising number of cheap motels that aren't affiliated with the major parks.

Is Orlando or Nags Head Better for Students?

Orlando
Nags Head

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

It's common for students to 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.

Nags Head is not popular with students.


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

Orlando
Nags Head

Orlando is adequate for times when you don't have a car. However, Nags Head does not have public transit.

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.

Nags Head does not have public transit.

Is Orlando or Nags Head a more walkable city?

Orlando
Nags Head

Orlando is mediocre for its walkability. However, Nags Head is not a walkable destination.

Orlando is not a very walkable city. The city is sprawling, so unless you stay on the Disney grounds, it's best to rent a car.

Nags Head is not a walkable destination.

Should I spend more time in Nags Head or Orlando?

How long in Orlando or Nags Head?

Both Orlando and Nags Head have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Nags Head than in Orlando. Usually, 7 days is a good amount of time for Orlando, and 4-7 days is enough time in Nags Head.

Families should spend more time in Orlando than Nags Head. 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 Nags Head. 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 Nags Head 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 Nags Head? Ideal Length of Stay
    Orlando 7 
    Nags Head 4-7

One day in Orlando or Nags Head?

You'll find shopping and theater around the city of Orlando. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

In Nags Head, you'll find food. This 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 Nags Head?

You'll find theater and nightlife around the active destination of Orlando. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

In Nags Head, you'll find food. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

Five days in Orlando or Nags Head?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the active city of Orlando. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. It's also a relaxing resort destination. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Nags Head is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Nags Head has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

A week in Orlando or Nags Head?

Orlando is a popular choice for travelers. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. One week 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. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Nags Head. In Nags Head, you'll find food. 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.


Which place is cheaper, Nags Head 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 Nags Head is $149. 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 Nags Head in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Orlando $154
    Nags Head $80
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Orlando $308
    Nags Head $160
Compare Hotels in Orlando and Nags Head

Looking for a hotel in Orlando or Nags Head? 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 Nags Head


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 Nags Head Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Orlando $66
    Nags Head $40
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:

  • Universal Studios Ticket with MCO Airport Transfer: $371
  • Private Transfer from Orlando (MCO) Airport to Melbourne : $279
  • Private Transfer from Four Corners to Port Canaveral: $269
  • Private Transfer from Reunion to Port Canaveral: $269
  • Private Transfer from Orlando-Sanford (SFB) Airport to The Villages: $269
  • Private Transfer from Orlando (MCO) Airport to Leesburg: $257
  • Private Transfer from Lakeland to Orlando (MCO) Airport: $257
  • Private Orlando Hotels to Orlando Airport MCO Transfer Sprinter Van up to 14 PX: $255
  • Private Orlando Airport (MCO) to Hotels Transfer by Sprinter Van up to 14 PX: $255
  • Private Transfer from Ocoee to Port Canaveral: $254
  • Private Transfers from Port Canaveral to Disney Hotels: $250
  • Private Transfer from Celebration to Port Canaveral: $247

Is it cheaper to fly into Orlando or Nags Head?

Prices for flights to both Nags Head 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
    Nags Head $41
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
    Nags Head $14
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
  • 2 Hour Investigative Walking Ghost Tour of Downtown Orlando: $50
  • 25 Minutes Adventure Rooms in Max Action Arena ICON Park: $12
  • 3- or 4-Park Magic Ticket at Walt Disney World Resort: $284
  • 8-Hour Automatic Polaris Slingshot SL Adventure Rental: $300
  • 8-hr. Kissimmee and St. Cloud Beach Tour on Fully Electric Trike: $74
  • Admission Ticket to Museum of Illusions Orlando: $31
  • Beer Spirits and Ghosts Walking Tour: $170
  • Central Florida Adventure Park - Authentic Dude Ranch Experience: $25
  • Central Florida Zoo & Downtown Sanford Golf Cart Experience: $130
  • Clear Canoeing and Wildlife Sightseeing at Silver Springs: $45

Tours and Activities in Nags Head

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

  • 2-hour Outer Banks Wild Horse Tour by 4WD Truck: $57
  • Alligator River Kayak Adventure: $59
  • Cape Hatteras Kayak Adventure in Rodanthe: $59
  • Cape Hatteras National Seashore Self-Guided Audio Driving Tour: $15
  • Cape Hatteras National Seashore: A Self-Guided Driving Tour: $12
  • Corolla Kayak Adventure: $59
  • Kitty Hawk Maritime Forest Kayak Tour: $49
  • Manteo Historic Walking Tour: $28
  • OBX Ghost Tours: $25
  • Outer Banks Audio Driving Tour: $13
  • Outer Banks Self-Guided Driving Audio Tour: $25
  • Wright Brothers Carolina Dunes Self-Guided Driving Audio Tour: $15

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Orlando $30
    Nags Head $12

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

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


Which is Bigger, Orlando or Nags Head?

Orlando has a larger population, and is about 70 times larger than the population of Nags Head. When comparing the sizes of Orlando and Nags Head, 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 Nags Head?

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 Nags Head in the Summer?

Both Nags Head and Orlando are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The summer months attract visitors to Orlando because of the family-friendly experiences. Also, the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Nags Head this time of year.

Orlando is around the same temperature as Nags Head in the summer. The daily temperature in Orlando averages around 82°F (28°C) in July, and Nags Head fluctuates around 78°F (26°C).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Nags Head. It's quite rainy in Orlando. In July, Orlando usually receives more rain than Nags Head. Orlando gets 8.3 inches (211 mm) of rain, while Nags Head receives 5.4 inches (137 mm) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Orlando 82°F (28°C) 
    Nags Head 78°F (26°C)

Should I visit Orlando or Nags Head in the Autumn?

Both Nags Head and Orlando during the autumn are popular places to visit. The shopping scene are the main draw to Orlando this time of year.

In the autumn, Orlando is a little warmer than Nags Head. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Orlando in October average around 75°F (24°C), and Nags Head averages at about 62°F (16°C).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Orlando. Orlando usually gets more rain in October than Nags Head. Orlando gets 4.1 inches (103 mm) of rain, while Nags Head receives 3.2 inches (82 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Orlando 75°F (24°C) 
    Nags Head 62°F (16°C)

Should I visit Orlando or Nags Head in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Orlando and Nags Head. Many travelers come to Orlando for the Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Nags Head in the winter for the cuisine.

Nags Head can get quite cold in the winter. In January, Orlando is generally much warmer than Nags Head. Daily temperatures in Orlando average around 59°F (15°C), and Nags Head fluctuates around 41°F (5°C).

Nags Head receives a lot of rain in the winter. In January, Orlando usually receives less rain than Nags Head. Orlando gets 2.3 inches (58 mm) of rain, while Nags Head receives 4.1 inches (105 mm) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Orlando 59°F (15°C) 
    Nags Head 41°F (5°C)

Should I visit Orlando or Nags Head in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Orlando as well as Nags Head.

Orlando is a little warmer than Nags Head in the spring. The daily temperature in Orlando averages around 72°F (22°C) in April, and Nags Head fluctuates around 59°F (15°C).

Orlando usually gets less rain in April than Nags Head. Orlando gets 2.7 inches (69 mm) of rain, while Nags Head receives 3 inches (75 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Orlando 72°F (22°C) 
    Nags Head 59°F (15°C)

Typical Weather for Nags Head and Orlando

Orlando Nags Head
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 59°F (15°C) 2.3 inches (58 mm) 41°F (5°C) 4.1 inches (105 mm)
Feb 62°F (16°C) 3 inches (75 mm) 42°F (6°C) 3.6 inches (92 mm)
Mar 67°F (19°C) 3.5 inches (88 mm) 50°F (10°C) 3.9 inches (98 mm)
Apr 72°F (22°C) 2.7 inches (69 mm) 59°F (15°C) 3 inches (75 mm)
May 77°F (25°C) 3 inches (75 mm) 67°F (19°C) 4.6 inches (117 mm)
Jun 81°F (27°C) 7.1 inches (181 mm) 74°F (23°C) 4.1 inches (105 mm)
Jul 82°F (28°C) 8.3 inches (211 mm) 78°F (26°C) 5.4 inches (137 mm)
Aug 82°F (28°C) 6.7 inches (171 mm) 78°F (25°C) 5 inches (127 mm)
Sep 81°F (27°C) 7.2 inches (183 mm) 72°F (22°C) 4.7 inches (119 mm)
Oct 75°F (24°C) 4.1 inches (103 mm) 62°F (16°C) 3.2 inches (82 mm)
Nov 68°F (20°C) 1.6 inches (40 mm) 53°F (12°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm)
Dec 62°F (17°C) 1.9 inches (48 mm) 45°F (7°C) 3.4 inches (85 mm)