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

Should you visit Orlando or Raleigh?

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

Should I visit Orlando or Raleigh? 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.

Raleigh

Raleigh is a student-friendly, suburban-style, and friendly city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. Other reasons to visit include nightlife, food, and museums.

Orlando and Raleigh: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Orlando or Raleigh?

Travelers will generally find more things to do in Orlando than Raleigh. While Raleigh is larger than Orlando, Orlando has more sights and attractions for tourists. Orlando is better known for its theatre productions, food, resorts, and shopping, while Raleigh is more popular for its museums and big city activities. Orlando is more touristy than Raleigh and is popular 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. Raleigh is well known for its many museums and being the home to North Carolina State University.

How is Orlando different from Raleigh?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Raleigh is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. As the state capital, there are a number of free museums in the area. There are also some kid-friendly options and other activities that are affiliated with the colleges and universities. Popular options include the NC Museum of Natural Sciences (free), the NC Museum of History (free), the NC Museum of Art (free), and Marbles Kids Museum.

Orlando does not have museums and landmarks.

Is Orlando or Raleigh Better for Theater?

Orlando is a popular place for its shows and theatre. However, Raleigh 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.

Raleigh is not a theatre destination.

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

Orlando is well known for its restaurant scene. Also, Raleigh is still popular, but not quite as popular 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.

There are plenty of up and coming restaurants around Raleigh. In addition to the standard chain restaurants, you'll find a number of local eateries with great southern dishes. Try some southern classics like barbecue, pimento cheese, and fried chicken and waffles. There are also good international options including Nepalese, Laotian, and Ethiopian flavors.

Is Orlando or Raleigh Better for Nightlife?

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

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 Raleigh. Head to downtown Raleigh or the areas around NC State University for some of the best nightlife. Trivia nights and happy hours are popular and you'll find breweries popping up in many places.

Is Orlando or Raleigh Better for Resorts?

Orlando is very popular for its resorts. However, Raleigh 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.

Raleigh is not a resort destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Orlando or Raleigh?

Orlando is well known for its shopping areas. However, Raleigh is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

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.

Raleigh is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Orlando or Raleigh Better for Christmas?

Orlando is very popular for its Christmas activities. However, Raleigh does not offer Christmas activities.

During Christmas, Orlando is not to be missed. Christmas at Disney World is lots of fun. There are decorations and all kinds of seasonal activities around town.

Raleigh does not offer Christmas activities.

Is Orlando or Raleigh Better for Families?

Orlando is very popular for its family-friendly activities. Also, Raleigh is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-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.

Raleigh offers lots of family activities. For such a small city, Raleigh has a number of unique kid-friendly activities like the popular Pullen Park and Marbles Kids' Museum. Pullen Park has small rides and a playground that are perfect for young kids. There's also the NC Museum of Natural History which is free and fun to explore with kids.

Is Orlando or Raleigh Better for Couples?

Orlando is a popular place for couples. However, Raleigh is not particularly known for romance.

Orlando is a good city for couples to visit. 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.

Raleigh is not the best destination for a couple to visit. While it's often overlooked by couples who want a weekend away, there are a number of museums and some nice restaurants to explore.

Is Orlando or Raleigh Better for Students?

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

Raleigh is a very popular city for students and younger travelers. The city has a diverse student population with many nearby universities and colleges.

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 Raleigh 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, Raleigh is not particularly known 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 Raleigh. The city's public transportation options are limited to a few bus lines that are mostly used by students.

Is Orlando or Raleigh a more walkable city?

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

Raleigh is generally not a very walkable city. The city is somewhat walkable in the downtown area, but everywhere else you'll need a car.

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 Raleigh Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Raleigh or Orlando?

How long in Orlando or Raleigh?

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

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

One day in Orlando or Raleigh?

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

In Raleigh, you'll find museums and nightlife. 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 Raleigh?

In Orlando, you'll find food and shopping. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

In Raleigh, you'll find nightlife and food. 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 Raleigh has to offer.

Five days in Orlando or Raleigh?

Orlando is a great place to explore. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

Raleigh 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 Raleigh?

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

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Raleigh. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Raleigh. 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.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Orlando and Raleigh, we can see that Orlando is more expensive. And not only is Raleigh much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Raleigh would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Raleigh 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 Raleigh.

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

Which is Bigger, Orlando or Raleigh?

Raleigh has a larger population, and is about 33% larger than the population of Orlando. When comparing the sizes of Orlando and Raleigh, 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 Raleigh?

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 Raleigh in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Orlando as well as Raleigh. The summer months attract visitors to Orlando because of the family-friendly experiences. Additionally, the city activities and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Raleigh this time of year.

In July, Orlando is generally around the same temperature as Raleigh. Daily temperatures in Orlando average around 82°F (28°C), and Raleigh fluctuates around 79°F (26°C).

It's quite rainy in Raleigh. Orlando receives a lot of rain in the summer. Orlando usually gets more rain in July than Raleigh. Orlando gets 8.3 inches (211 mm) of rain, while Raleigh receives 5.1 inches (129 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Orlando or Raleigh in the Autumn?

Both Raleigh and Orlando are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The shopping scene are the main draw to Orlando this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Raleigh for the city's sights and attractions.

Orlando is a little warmer than Raleigh in the autumn. The daily temperature in Orlando averages around 75°F (24°C) in October, and Raleigh fluctuates around 61°F (16°C).

It's quite rainy in Orlando. In October, Orlando usually receives more rain than Raleigh. Orlando gets 4.1 inches (103 mm) of rain, while Raleigh receives 2.8 inches (71 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Orlando or Raleigh in the Winter?

Both Raleigh and Orlando during the winter are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Orlando for the Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Raleigh in the winter for the museums and the cuisine.

Raleigh can get quite cold in the winter. In the winter, Orlando is much warmer than Raleigh. Typically, the winter temperatures in Orlando in January average around 59°F (15°C), and Raleigh averages at about 40°F (5°C).

Orlando usually gets less rain in January than Raleigh. Orlando gets 2.3 inches (58 mm) of rain, while Raleigh receives 3.2 inches (82 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Orlando or Raleigh in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Orlando and Raleigh. Also, most visitors come to Raleigh for the activities around the city during these months.

In April, Orlando is generally a little warmer than Raleigh. Daily temperatures in Orlando average around 72°F (22°C), and Raleigh fluctuates around 60°F (16°C).

In April, Orlando usually receives less rain than Raleigh. Orlando gets 2.7 inches (69 mm) of rain, while Raleigh receives 3.1 inches (78 mm) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Raleigh and Orlando