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

Should you visit Orlando or Providence?

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

Should I visit Orlando or Providence? 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. It's also popular because of the theater, nightlife, and food.

Providence

Providence is a friendly, fascinating, and active city. Other reasons to visit include museums, nightlife, and food.

Orlando and Providence: Pros and Cons

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


Is there more to do in Orlando or Providence?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Orlando. Although Orlando and Providence are about the same size, Orlando has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Orlando is better known for its theatre productions, resorts, and shopping, while Providence is more popular for its museums. Orlando is more touristy than Providence and is 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. Providence is well known for its outdoor parks, historic atmosphere, and college town vibe.

How is Orlando different from Providence?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Orlando
Providence

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

Providence is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. There are several historical museums around town as well as art museums, zoos, a planetarium and natural history museum, and even a children's museum.

Orlando does not have museums and landmarks.


Is Orlando or Providence Better for Theater?

Orlando
Providence

Orlando is a good destination for its shows and theatre. However, Providence 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.

Providence is not a theatre destination.

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

Orlando
Providence

There are opportunities to sample the local cuisine at superb restaurants in both Orlando and Providence.

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in Orlando. There are a diversity of restaurants on the Disney grounds and nearby. You'll also find many restaurants at Universal CityWalk and Disney Springs. Food can be expensive, and the quality can vary dramatically. Many people enjoy going to dinner shows as well. Restaurants can be challenging also, as reservations must be made months in advance.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Providence. The food scene around town has grown and diversified in recent years. You'll find a mix of international and local options and for such a small city, it really has a lot to offer.

Is Orlando or Providence Better for Nightlife?

Orlando
Providence

The vibe at night is notable in both Orlando and Providence.

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 Providence. Comedy clubs, bars, and clubs keep the energy high during the evening hours. It's not hard to find something to do, particularly on weekend nights.


Is Orlando or Providence Better for Resorts?

Orlando
Providence

Orlando is an unbeatable place for its luxury resorts. However, Providence is not a resort destination.

Vacationers flock to Orlando for its luxury resorts. 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.

Providence is not a resort destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Orlando or Providence?

Orlando
Providence

Orlando is a great city for its shopping areas. Also, Providence is not as popular, but is still a nice city for shopping.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas 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.

Providence is a great destination for shopping. Malls, shopping centers, and boutiques all offer a range of shopping experiences around town.

Is Orlando or Providence Better for Christmas?

Orlando
Providence

Orlando is an unbeatable place for its Christmas holiday experiences. However, Providence 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.

Providence does not offer Christmas activities.


Is Orlando or Providence Better for Families?

Orlando
Providence

Orlando is an unbeatable place for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Providence is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its family-friendly activities.

With a huge array of activities for kids, Orlando is very family-friendly. 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.

Providence is a family-friendly place to visit. There are opportunities for kids to interact with animals at the Roger Williams Park Zoo, as well as plenty of places for kids to run around like Rocky Point Park or Goddard Memorial State Park. There's also the Providence Children's Museum, go carting, and entertainment centers.

Is Orlando or Providence Better for Couples?

Orlando
Providence

With fun activities for couples, both Orlando and Providence 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.

Providence makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. You can see a show at the Providence Performing Arts Center or visit some of the city's historic buildings and museums. There are also parks and coastal walks as well as many great restaurants.

Is Orlando or Providence Better for Students?

Orlando
Providence

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

Providence is a very popular city for students and younger travelers. There's a college town vibe to this small city because it's home to Brown University, which is a member of the Ivy League.

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

Orlando
Providence

Providence 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 Providence offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There are RIPTA buses that travel around town.

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 Providence a more walkable city?

Orlando
Providence

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

Providence is very walkable. It's a walkable city and it's relatively easy to explore on foot.

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 Providence Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Providence or Orlando?

How long in Orlando or Providence?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Orlando and Providence. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Providence than in Orlando. Usually, 7 days is a good amount of time for Orlando, and 2-3 days is enough time in Providence.

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


  • How many days in Orlando or Providence? Ideal Length of Stay
    Orlando 7 
    Providence 2-3

One day in Orlando or Providence?

With theater and nightlife around the family-friendly city of Orlando, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

In Providence, you'll find nightlife and food. This city offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.


A weekend in Orlando or Providence?

With nightlife and food around the destination of Orlando, there's plenty to do. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. It offers something for everyone. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything.

In Providence, you'll find food and shopping. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Providence has to offer.

Five days in Orlando or Providence?

Orlando, a popular city, is full of activities for travelers. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Providence 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 Providence?

Orlando is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

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


Which place is cheaper, Providence 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 Providence is $210. 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 Providence in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Orlando $154
    Providence $114
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Orlando $308
    Providence $228
Compare Hotels in Orlando and Providence

Looking for a hotel in Orlando or Providence? 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 Providence


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 Providence Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Orlando $66
    Providence $46
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: $436
  • Private Transfer from Orlando-Sanford (SFB) Airport to Melbourne: $297
  • Private Transfer from Orlando Airport to Port Canaveral : $286
  • Private Transfer from Orlando (MCO) Airport to Melbourne : $284
  • Private Transfer from Orlando (MCO) Airport to Cocoa Beach: $282
  • Private Transfer from The Villages to Orlando-Sanford (SFB) Airport: $274
  • Private Transfer from Reunion to Port Canaveral: $274
  • Private Transfer from Four Corners to Port Canaveral: $274
  • Private Transfer from Orlando-Sanford (SFB) Airport to The Villages: $274
  • Private Transfer from Windermere to Port Canaveral: $274
  • Private Transfer from Orlando (MCO) Airport to Port Canaveral: $266
  • 14 Passengers Van private Transfer to/From Port Canaveral Cruises: $265

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Providence

Also for Providence, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • New York’s JFK International Airport to Providence – Departure Private Transfer: $277
  • Providence to Boston’s Logan International Airport - Departure Private Transfer: $173
  • T. F. Green State Airport (PVD) to Providence - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $93
  • Private Transfer from Providence City Hotels to Newport Port: $62
  • Private Transfer from Providence Airport (PVD) to Newport Port : $50
  • Providence to Rhode Island Airport PVD Departure Transfer : $47
  • T. F. Green State Airport (PVD) to Providence – Arrival Private Transfer : $47
  • Private Departure Transfer to Providence TF Green Airport PVD: $36

Is it cheaper to fly into Orlando or Providence?

Prices for flights to both Providence 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
    Providence $48
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 Providence

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

  • Downcity Providence Food Tour: $89

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Orlando $204
    Providence $26
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 Providence

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

  • Boat Tour of Green Jacket Shoal: $58
  • Brews Cruise with Narragansett Beer: $60
  • Discover Providence Guided Sightseeing Tour: $40
  • Downtown Providence Self-Driving Audio Tour: $13
  • Haunted Boat Tours: $49
  • Haunted History Walking Tour of Providence: $30
  • Murder Mystery Detective Experience Providence, RI: $15
  • Narrated Boat Tours: $38
  • Parasols and Pocket Watches: A History Tour: $30
  • Providence Architecture Boat Tour: $65
  • Providence Ghosts Phantoms and Poltergeists Tour: $30
  • Providence Mob Walking Tour: $33

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Orlando $30
    Providence $13

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

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


Which is Bigger, Orlando or Providence?

Orlando has a larger population, and is about 17% larger than the population of Providence. When comparing the sizes of Orlando and Providence, 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 Providence?

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 Providence in the Summer?

Both Providence and Orlando are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Orlando for the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Providence because of the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Orlando is generally a little warmer than Providence. Daily temperatures in Orlando average around 82°F (28°C), and Providence fluctuates around 73°F (23°C).

It's quite rainy in Orlando. In July, Orlando usually receives more rain than Providence. Orlando gets 8.3 inches (211 mm) of rain, while Providence receives 2.8 inches (72 mm) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Orlando 82°F (28°C) 
    Providence 73°F (23°C)

Should I visit Orlando or Providence in the Autumn?

Both Providence and Orlando during the autumn are popular places to visit. The autumn months attract visitors to Orlando because of the shopping scene. Furthermore, the shopping scene are the main draw to Providence this time of year.

Orlando is much warmer than Providence in the autumn. The daily temperature in Orlando averages around 75°F (24°C) in October, and Providence fluctuates around 53°F (12°C).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Orlando. Orlando usually gets more rain in October than Providence. Orlando gets 4.1 inches (103 mm) of rain, while Providence receives 3.3 inches (83 mm) of rain this time of the year.


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

Should I visit Orlando or Providence in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Orlando and Providence. The Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine are the main draw to Orlando this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Providence for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Providence. In the winter, Orlando is much warmer than Providence. Typically, the winter temperatures in Orlando in January average around 59°F (15°C), and Providence averages at about 28°F (-2°C).

In January, Orlando usually receives less rain than Providence. Orlando gets 2.3 inches (58 mm) of rain, while Providence receives 3.5 inches (89 mm) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Orlando 59°F (15°C) 
    Providence 28°F (-2°C)

Should I visit Orlando or Providence in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Orlando as well as Providence.

In April, Orlando is generally much warmer than Providence. Daily temperatures in Orlando average around 72°F (22°C), and Providence fluctuates around 48°F (9°C).

Orlando usually gets less rain in April than Providence. Orlando gets 2.7 inches (69 mm) of rain, while Providence receives 3.7 inches (94 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Orlando 72°F (22°C) 
    Providence 48°F (9°C)

Typical Weather for Providence and Orlando

Orlando Providence
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 59°F (15°C) 2.3 inches (58 mm) 28°F (-2°C) 3.5 inches (89 mm)
Feb 62°F (16°C) 3 inches (75 mm) 30°F (-1°C) 3.5 inches (88 mm)
Mar 67°F (19°C) 3.5 inches (88 mm) 38°F (3°C) 4 inches (101 mm)
Apr 72°F (22°C) 2.7 inches (69 mm) 48°F (9°C) 3.7 inches (94 mm)
May 77°F (25°C) 3 inches (75 mm) 58°F (15°C) 3.5 inches (89 mm)
Jun 81°F (27°C) 7.1 inches (181 mm) 67°F (20°C) 2.6 inches (67 mm)
Jul 82°F (28°C) 8.3 inches (211 mm) 73°F (23°C) 2.8 inches (72 mm)
Aug 82°F (28°C) 6.7 inches (171 mm) 72°F (22°C) 3.9 inches (99 mm)
Sep 81°F (27°C) 7.2 inches (183 mm) 64°F (18°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm)
Oct 75°F (24°C) 4.1 inches (103 mm) 53°F (12°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm)
Nov 68°F (20°C) 1.6 inches (40 mm) 44°F (7°C) 4.5 inches (115 mm)
Dec 62°F (17°C) 1.9 inches (48 mm) 33°F (0°C) 4.1 inches (105 mm)