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

Should you visit Orlando or Nantucket?

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

Should I visit Orlando or Nantucket? 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.

Nantucket

Nantucket is a upscale, charming, and serene island. With plenty of activities and sights, this is a small town worth visiting. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Other reasons to visit include hiking, shopping, and museums.

Orlando and Nantucket: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Numerous theater shows
  • Active nightlife
  • Popular at Christmas
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for students
  • Home to Disney World, Universal Studios, and the city's many amusement parks
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with couples
  • Less popular with backpackers
  • Less walkable
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Popular beach
  • Scenic old town
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Very walkable
  • Small town charm
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with backpackers


Is there more to do in Orlando or Nantucket?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Nantucket. Although Orlando and Nantucket are both popular with visitors, Nantucket has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Nantucket is more popular for its museums, food, beaches, historical sights, hiking, small town charm, and impressive beauty, while Orlando is known for its theatre productions and resorts. Orlando is more touristy than Nantucket and is known for being the home of Walt Disney World, Universal Orlando, and many other theme parks and family-friendly activities. Nantucket is popular for its pristine beaches, upscale atmosphere, and history of whaling. It is also home to Great Point Lighthouse.

How is Orlando different from Nantucket?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Orlando
Nantucket

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

Nantucket is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. There are several museums around town that educate visitors on the island's whaling history and maritime past.

Orlando does not have museums and landmarks.


Is Orlando or Nantucket Better for Theater?

Orlando
Nantucket

Orlando is very good for theatre. However, Nantucket 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.

Nantucket is not a theatre destination.

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

Orlando
Nantucket

Nantucket is renowned for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Orlando is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its local cuisine and restaurants.

For foodies, Nantucket is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. Upscale eateries where you can look out on the water make dining on this island a true experience. There are raw bars, seafood restaurants, and local cafes with elaborate salads and duck carnitas. Dishes usually use the highest quality fresh ingredients and chefs bring their "A game" with every customer.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit 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.

Is Orlando or Nantucket Better for Nightlife?

Orlando
Nantucket

The vibe at night is good in both Orlando and Nantucket.

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 Nantucket. You'll find a number of bars and a lively singles scene in town. There's also live music and a laid back but active atmosphere in the evening.


Is Orlando or Nantucket Better for Resorts?

Orlando
Nantucket

Orlando is renowned for its luxury resorts. Also, Nantucket is not as popular, but is still a nice island for its 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.

Nantucket is a popular resort destination that attracts visitors from everywhere. Luxury resorts and upscale inns offer guests a relaxed setting with oceanfront views and family-friendly activities.

Is Orlando or Nantucket Better for Beaches?

Orlando
Nantucket

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

Nantucket is considered a top beach destination. You'll find the calmest water at the northern beaches, and cooler water with rougher surf to the south. Many of the beaches are accessible from town, but parking can be limited. There are both public and private beaches, each with beautiful settings and relaxing vibes.

Orlando is not a beach destination.

Is Orlando or Nantucket Better for its Old Town?

Orlando
Nantucket

Nantucket is great for its historic old town. However, Orlando does not have a historic old town.

Many visitors explore the old town while visiting Nantucket. The Historic District is filled with New England charm, cobblestone streets, and upscale boutiques. There are many great restaurants and a lot of historic character.

Orlando does not have a historic old town.


Is Orlando or Nantucket Better for Hiking?

Orlando
Nantucket

Nantucket is great for hiking. However, Orlando is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors go to Nantucket for the hiking trails. The island is easy to explore on foot, and its covered with hiking trails that follow the serene coastline or take you through forests, bogs, and marshland.

Orlando is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Orlando or Nantucket?

Orlando
Nantucket

If you're looking to go shopping, Orlando and Nantucket 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.

Nantucket is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. The Historic District is filled with boutiques, art galleries, and upscale shops. It's the perfect place to spend an afternoon wandering around and shopping.

Is Orlando or Nantucket Better for Christmas?

Orlando
Nantucket

Orlando is renowned for its Christmas holiday experiences. However, Nantucket does not offer Christmas activities.

People travel from all around to experience the Christmas season in Orlando. Christmas at Disney World is lots of fun. There are decorations and all kinds of seasonal activities around town.

Nantucket does not offer Christmas activities.


Is Orlando or Nantucket Better for Families?

Orlando
Nantucket

Orlando is renowned for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Nantucket is not as popular, but is still a nice island for its family-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.

Nantucket is a very kid-friendly city. There's a calm beach that's perfect for kids as well as quaint ice cream shops and plenty of New England charm. The town is also filled with hiking and biking trails.

Is Orlando or Nantucket Better for Couples?

Orlando
Nantucket

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

Nantucket makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. The New England charm, natural beauty, and relaxing coastal atmosphere make this a perfect romantic destination. There are also many romantic places to stay and great local restaurants.

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 Nantucket Better for Students?

Orlando
Nantucket

Orlando is very good for its student-friendly activities. However, Nantucket 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.

Nantucket is not popular with students.


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

Orlando
Nantucket

Nantucket 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 Nantucket offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There are shuttle buses around the island that operate with greater frequency during the summer months.

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 Nantucket a more walkable city?

Orlando
Nantucket

Nantucket is great for its walkability. However, Orlando is not a good destination for its high level of walkability.

Nantucket is very walkable. The town is very walkable and parking can be challenging, so it's best to leave your car in the ferry parking lot.

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 Nantucket Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Nantucket or Orlando?

How long in Orlando or Nantucket?

It's fun to spend time in either Orlando or Nantucket. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Nantucket 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 Nantucket.

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

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


  • How many days in Orlando or Nantucket? Ideal Length of Stay
    Orlando 7 
    Nantucket 2-4

One day in Orlando or Nantucket?

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.

Nantucket is a small town with plenty to do. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. One reason most visitors come is for the food. This island 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 Nantucket?

You'll find theater and nightlife around the family-friendly 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.

Nantucket might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One reason most visitors come is for the food. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Nantucket has to offer.

Five days in Orlando or Nantucket?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the family-friendly 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.

Nantucket 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.

A week in Orlando or Nantucket?

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 Nantucket. Since Nantucket is a small town, it's easily explored when your time is limited. One reason most visitors come is for the food. It's also a relaxing resort destination. 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.


Which place is cheaper, Nantucket 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 Nantucket is $350. 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 Nantucket in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Orlando $154
    Nantucket $237
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Orlando $308
    Nantucket $474
Compare Hotels in Orlando and Nantucket

Looking for a hotel in Orlando or Nantucket? 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 Nantucket


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 Nantucket Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Orlando $66
    Nantucket $47
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-Sanford (SFB) Airport to Melbourne: $293
  • Private Transfer from Four Corners to Port Canaveral: $270
  • Private Transfer from Orlando-Sanford (SFB) Airport to The Villages: $270
  • Private Transfer from The Villages to Orlando-Sanford (SFB) Airport: $270
  • Private Transfer from Orlando (MCO) Airport to Port Canaveral: $262
  • Private Transfer from Lakeland to Orlando (MCO) Airport: $258
  • Private Transfer from Leesburg to Orlando (MCO) Airport: $258
  • Private Transfer from Orlando (MCO) Airport to Lakeland: $258
  • Orlando Airport (MCO) to Miami accommodation - Arrival Private Transfer: $256
  • 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

Is it cheaper to fly into Orlando or Nantucket?

Prices for flights to both Nantucket 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
    Nantucket $81
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
  • 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

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Orlando $204
    Nantucket $34
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
  • 16 mile Heli Tour Over Disney Spring, Epcot, Hollywood Studios: $86
  • 16 miles Private Helicopter Day Tour over Fun Spot: $65
  • 2 Hour Historical Wildlife Tour of the Chain of Lakes: $42
  • 2 Hour Investigative Walking Ghost Tour of Downtown Orlando: $50
  • 23 mile Heli Tour, Epcot, Hollywood Studios, Animal Kingdom &more: $127
  • 23 miles Day Flight Heli Coaster Adventure Ride: $128
  • 3- or 4-Park Magic Ticket at Walt Disney World Resort: $284
  • 8-Hour Automatic Polaris Slingshot SL Adventure Rental: $300
  • Beer Spirits and Ghosts Walking Tour: $170

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Orlando $30
    Nantucket $35

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
  • Chef's Table and Wine Tasting Tour: $300


When comparing the travel costs between Orlando and Nantucket, we can see that Nantucket is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Since both cities are in North America, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

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


Which is Bigger, Orlando or Nantucket?

Orlando has a larger population, and is about 10 times larger than the population of Nantucket. When comparing the sizes of Orlando and Nantucket, 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 Nantucket?

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 Nantucket in the Summer?

Both Nantucket and Orlando are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Orlando this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Nantucket for the beaches, the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences.

Orlando is a little warmer than Nantucket in the summer. The daily temperature in Orlando averages around 82°F (28°C) in July, and Nantucket fluctuates around 68°F (20°C).

It's quite rainy in Orlando. In July, Orlando usually receives more rain than Nantucket. Orlando gets 8.3 inches (211 mm) of rain, while Nantucket receives 3.8 inches (96 mm) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Orlando 82°F (28°C) 
    Nantucket 68°F (20°C)

Should I visit Orlando or Nantucket in the Autumn?

Both Nantucket and Orlando during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Orlando for the shopping scene. Furthermore, many visitors come to Nantucket in the autumn for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Orlando is much warmer than Nantucket. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Orlando in October average around 75°F (24°C), and Nantucket averages at about 53°F (12°C).

Nantucket gets a good bit of rain this time of year. It rains a lot this time of the year in Orlando. Orlando usually gets around the same amount of rain in October as Nantucket. Orlando gets 4.1 inches (103 mm) of rain, while Nantucket receives 4.4 inches (111 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Orlando 75°F (24°C) 
    Nantucket 53°F (12°C)

Should I visit Orlando or Nantucket in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Orlando and Nantucket. 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 Nantucket for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Nantucket can be very cold during winter. In January, Orlando is generally much warmer than Nantucket. Daily temperatures in Orlando average around 59°F (15°C), and Nantucket fluctuates around 31°F (-0°C).

Nantucket receives a lot of rain in the winter. In January, Orlando usually receives less rain than Nantucket. Orlando gets 2.3 inches (58 mm) of rain, while Nantucket receives 4.2 inches (106 mm) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Orlando 59°F (15°C) 
    Nantucket 31°F (-0°C)

Should I visit Orlando or Nantucket in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Orlando as well as Nantucket. Additionally, the spring months attract visitors to Nantucket because of the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty.

Orlando is much warmer than Nantucket in the spring. The daily temperature in Orlando averages around 72°F (22°C) in April, and Nantucket fluctuates around 45°F (7°C).

It's quite rainy in Nantucket. Orlando usually gets less rain in April than Nantucket. Orlando gets 2.7 inches (69 mm) of rain, while Nantucket receives 4.1 inches (103 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Orlando 72°F (22°C) 
    Nantucket 45°F (7°C)

Typical Weather for Nantucket and Orlando

Orlando Nantucket
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 59°F (15°C) 2.3 inches (58 mm) 31°F (-0°C) 4.2 inches (106 mm)
Feb 62°F (16°C) 3 inches (75 mm) 32°F (-0°C) 4.6 inches (117 mm)
Mar 67°F (19°C) 3.5 inches (88 mm) 38°F (3°C) 4 inches (102 mm)
Apr 72°F (22°C) 2.7 inches (69 mm) 45°F (7°C) 4.1 inches (103 mm)
May 77°F (25°C) 3 inches (75 mm) 53°F (12°C) 3.9 inches (99 mm)
Jun 81°F (27°C) 7.1 inches (181 mm) 62°F (17°C) 3.6 inches (91 mm)
Jul 82°F (28°C) 8.3 inches (211 mm) 68°F (20°C) 3.8 inches (96 mm)
Aug 82°F (28°C) 6.7 inches (171 mm) 68°F (20°C) 3.1 inches (78 mm)
Sep 81°F (27°C) 7.2 inches (183 mm) 62°F (17°C) 4.2 inches (106 mm)
Oct 75°F (24°C) 4.1 inches (103 mm) 53°F (12°C) 4.4 inches (111 mm)
Nov 68°F (20°C) 1.6 inches (40 mm) 46°F (8°C) 3.8 inches (96 mm)
Dec 62°F (17°C) 1.9 inches (48 mm) 36°F (2°C) 4.5 inches (115 mm)