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

Should you visit Orlando or Saint Simons?

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

Should I visit Orlando or Saint Simons? 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. It's also known for shopping, theater, and nightlife.

Saint Simons

Saint Simons is a relaxing, laid back, and scenic island. With plenty of activities and sights, this is a small town worth visiting. It's a gorgeous place to visit. Other reasons to visit include shopping, food, and beaches.

Orlando and Saint Simons: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Orlando or Saint Simons?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Orlando. Although Orlando and Saint Simons are both popular with visitors, Orlando has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Orlando is more popular for its theatre productions, nightlife, and resorts, while Saint Simons is known for its museums, beaches, hiking, small town charm, and impressive beauty. Orlando is more touristy than Saint Simons and is popular 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. Saint Simons is popular for its beaches, charter fishing, and golf courses.

How is Orlando different from Saint Simons?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Saint Simons is adequate for its historical sights. However, Orlando does not have museums and landmarks.

While most people don't head to Saint Simons specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. St. Simons Lighthouse is a highlight for many visitors. There's a maritime museum attached to the lighthouse as well. Fort Frederica National Monument is another historic site that is worth a visit.

Orlando does not have museums and landmarks.

Is Orlando or Saint Simons Better for Theater?

Orlando is a popular place for theatre. However, Saint Simons 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.

Saint Simons is not a theatre destination.

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

There are opportunities to sample the local cuisine at high quality restaurants in both Orlando and Saint Simons.

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 Saint Simons. There are more than 70 restaurants on the island that range from cafes to fine dining. You can enjoy an eggs benedict for brunch, crab cakes for lunch, and shrimp and grits for dinner. Many restaurants take advantage of the mild climate by offering outdoor seating. There are also several dessert places with ice cream or donuts.

Is Orlando or Saint Simons Better for Nightlife?

Orlando is a popular place for nightlife. However, Saint Simons is a island with minimal options for nightlife and partying.

Orlando has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. 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.

Saint Simons doesn't have the most active nightlife scene. There are several family-friendly bars with laid back atmospheres around town, but if you're looking for a wild night out, there aren't a lot of places to go.

Is Orlando or Saint Simons Better for Resorts?

Orlando is an unbeatable place for its resorts. Also, Saint Simons is still popular, but not quite as popular for its luxury resorts.

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.

With a selection of resorts, Saint Simons makes a nice vacation spot. There are a handful of nice resorts with pools and beachfront settings.

Is Orlando or Saint Simons Better for Beaches?

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

Saint Simons is considered a top beach destination. There's golden sand and a beautiful setting. Visitors enjoy swimming or walking along the coastline. You'll also find piers and playgrounds. East Beach is one of the most popular.

Orlando is not a beach destination.

Is Orlando or Saint Simons Better for Hiking?

Saint Simons is a popular place for hiking. However, Orlando is not a hiking destination.

Saint Simons is a good destination for hiking. There are several parks and natural areas where you can enjoy a walk in nature. Cannon's Point Preserve has a nice trail system. Other trails on the island include John Gilbert Nature Trail, Earth Day Nature Trail, and Wanderer Memorial Trail.

Orlando is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Orlando or Saint Simons?

If you're looking to go shopping, Orlando and Saint Simons both offer plenty of high quality 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.

Saint Simons is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. You'll find a good concentration of gift shops and clothing boutiques on the island. Antiquing is also popular. Head to Pier Village for a nice mix of shops.

Is Orlando or Saint Simons Better for Christmas?

Orlando is an unbeatable place for its Christmas activities. However, Saint Simons does not offer Christmas activities.

Orlando is a world class destination for shoppers. Christmas at Disney World is lots of fun. There are decorations and all kinds of seasonal activities around town.

Saint Simons does not offer Christmas activities.

Is Orlando or Saint Simons Better for Families?

Orlando is an unbeatable place for its family-friendly activities. Also, Saint Simons 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.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Saint Simons is very family-friendly. The beaches are kid-friendly and there are many family-friendly restaurants in town. There's also the St. Simons Lighthouse, minigolf, and kayaking, as well as Neptune Park Fun Zone.

Is Orlando or Saint Simons Better for Couples?

Saint Simons is great for romance. Also, Orlando is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its romantic activities.

Saint Simons is a great island if you're traveling as a couple. There are romantic restaurants, beautiful beaches, and nice hotels. Sunset walks on the beach or a round of golf all make this a favorite couple's destination.

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 Saint Simons Better for Students?

Orlando is a popular place for students. However, Saint Simons is not popular with students.

Orlando is popular with 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.

Saint Simons is not popular with students.

Is Orlando or Saint Simons 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, Saint Simons is a island with minimal options for times when you don't have a car.

Public transit is generally limited in Orlando. If you're staying at a Disney Property, there is excellent transportation around the complex, but otherwise, a car is essential.

Public transit is quite limited in Saint Simons. While there are trolley tours available, public transportation is basically non-existent.

Is Orlando or Saint Simons a more walkable city?

Saint Simons is a popular place for its walkability. However, Orlando is not a good destination for its high level of walkability.

Saint Simons is somewhat walkable. The downtown area is walkable, but to access much of what is available, you'll want to have 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 Saint Simons Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Saint Simons or Orlando?

How long in Orlando or Saint Simons?

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Saint Simons 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 Saint Simons.

One day in Orlando or Saint Simons?

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

Saint Simons is a small town with plenty to do. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. 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 Saint Simons?

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

Saint Simons 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. Most people come for the beaches. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Saint Simons has to offer.

Five days in Orlando or Saint Simons?

You'll find theater and nightlife around the entertaining destination of Orlando. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days.

Saint Simons is a great place to explore. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. 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 Saint Simons?

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

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Saint Simons. Since Saint Simons is a small town, it's easily explored when your time is limited. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. 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 Saint Simons, we can see that Orlando is more expensive. And not only is Saint Simons much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Saint Simons would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Saint Simons 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 Saint Simons.

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

Which is Bigger, Orlando or Saint Simons?

Orlando has a larger population, and is about 20 times larger than the population of Saint Simons. When comparing the sizes of Orlando and Saint Simons, 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 Saint Simons?

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 Saint Simons in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Orlando as well as Saint Simons. The summer months attract visitors to Orlando because of the family-friendly experiences. Also, the beaches, the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Saint Simons this time of year.

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

It's quite rainy in Saint Simons. Orlando receives a lot of rain in the summer. Orlando usually gets more rain in July than Saint Simons. Orlando gets 8.3 inches (211 mm) of rain, while Saint Simons receives 5.4 inches (137 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Orlando or Saint Simons in the Autumn?

Both Saint Simons 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 Saint Simons for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Orlando is a little warmer than Saint Simons. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Orlando in October average around 75°F (24°C), and Saint Simons averages at about 70°F (21°C).

It's quite rainy in Orlando. In October, Orlando usually receives more rain than Saint Simons. Orlando gets 4.1 inches (103 mm) of rain, while Saint Simons receives 2.9 inches (73 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Orlando or Saint Simons in the Winter?

Both Saint Simons 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. Furthermore, many visitors come to Saint Simons in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

In January, Orlando is generally a little warmer than Saint Simons. Daily temperatures in Orlando average around 59°F (15°C), and Saint Simons fluctuates around 53°F (12°C).

Orlando usually gets less rain in January than Saint Simons. Orlando gets 2.3 inches (58 mm) of rain, while Saint Simons receives 3.3 inches (83 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Orlando or Saint Simons in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Orlando and Saint Simons. Furthermore, most visitors come to Saint Simons for the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty during these months.

Orlando is around the same temperature as Saint Simons in the spring. The daily temperature in Orlando averages around 72°F (22°C) in April, and Saint Simons fluctuates around 68°F (20°C).

In April, Orlando usually receives around the same amount of rain as Saint Simons. Orlando gets 2.7 inches (69 mm) of rain, while Saint Simons receives 2.8 inches (72 mm) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Saint Simons and Orlando