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

Should you visit Saint Simons or Detroit?

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

Should I visit Saint Simons or Detroit? 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.

Saint Simons

Saint Simons is a laid back, scenic, and relaxing island. It offers plenty of small town charm along with sights and activities, too. It's a beautiful place to visit, too. Visitors also love the beaches, hiking, and shopping.

Detroit

Detroit is a under-rated, hardworking, and overlooked city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. It's also known for food, shopping, and museums.

Saint Simons and Detroit: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Nice resorts
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Small town charm
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less popular with backpackers
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Family-friendly
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with couples
  • Less popular with backpackers


Is there more to do in Saint Simons or Detroit?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Detroit. Although Saint Simons and Detroit are popular destinations, Detroit has more sights and attractions for tourists. Detroit is very popular for its museums, nightlife, music, and big city activities, while Saint Simons attracts visitors for its food, resorts, beaches, hiking, shopping, small town charm, and impressive beauty. Saint Simons is more touristy than Detroit and is popular for its beaches, charter fishing, and golf courses. Detroit is famous for its Motown music, blue collar atmosphere, and influential auto industry. It is also well known for the Henry Ford Experience.

How is Saint Simons different from Detroit?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Saint Simons or Detroit?

Saint Simons
Detroit

Detroit is a popular place for its museums and landmarks. However, Saint Simons is a island with minimal options for its historical sights.

Detroit is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. Popular museums around town include the Detroit Institute of Arts, the Detroit Historical Museum, and the Michigan Science Center.

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.


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

Saint Simons
Detroit

Saint Simons is a very popular place for its restaurants. Also, Detroit is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

Saint Simons has a huge number of terrific restaurants. 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.

There are many up and coming restaurants in the Detroit area. There's a local flavor to the food with a number of classic dishes that are popular like square pizza, Coney dogs, and corned beef egg rolls.

Is Saint Simons or Detroit Better for Nightlife?

Saint Simons
Detroit

Detroit is a great destination for nightlife. However, Saint Simons is a island with minimal options for nightlife and partying.

The people in Detroit know how to have a good time. It's long history in music still influences the nightlife scene. You'll find bars, clubs, and other activities around town. Greektown and Midtown are both popular neighborhoods during the evening.

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 Saint Simons or Detroit Better for Music?

Saint Simons
Detroit

Detroit is an unbeatable place for live music. However, Saint Simons is not a live music destination.

Detroit is a world class music destination. Few cities have such an influential music industry. It's home to Motown and is well known for its soul music, jazz, blues, and rap.

Saint Simons is not a live music destination.


Is Saint Simons or Detroit Better for Resorts?

Saint Simons
Detroit

Saint Simons is a nice place to visit for its luxury resorts. However, Detroit is not a resort destination.

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

Detroit is not a resort destination.

Is Saint Simons or Detroit Better for Beaches?

Saint Simons
Detroit

Saint Simons is a very popular place for the beache. However, Detroit is not a beach destination.

You'll have a great beach vacation in Saint Simons. 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.

Detroit is not a beach destination.

Is Saint Simons or Detroit Better for Hiking?

Saint Simons
Detroit

Saint Simons is a nice place to visit for its hiking trails. However, Detroit is not a hiking destination.

Saint Simons has hiking trails worth exploring. 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.

Detroit is not a hiking destination.


Is the Shopping Better in Saint Simons or Detroit?

Saint Simons
Detroit

Saint Simons is a very popular place for its shopping opportunities. Also, Detroit is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its shopping areas.

Saint Simons is well-known for its shopping. 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.

Many visitors go to Detroit to go shopping. There are several shopping streets like Woodward Avenue. There are also outlet malls, shopping centers, and Eastern Market.

Is Saint Simons or Detroit Better for Families?

Saint Simons
Detroit

Saint Simons is a very popular place for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Detroit is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

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.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Detroit. Head to the Detroit Zoo or check out one of the amusement parks in the area. Kids will enjoy a visit to Legoland and there's also the Sea Life Michigan Aquarium. You could also spend some time visiting the unique museums in the area.

Is Saint Simons or Detroit Better for Couples?

Saint Simons
Detroit

Saint Simons is a very popular place for its romantic activities. However, Detroit is lacking in good options for couples.

Saint Simons makes for a fun place to visit for 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.

Detroit is not always the best place to visit for a couple. It's not a city that usually brings to mind romance, but if you find yourself here for a couple of days, there's a RiverWalk area and some interesting local neighborhoods.


Is Saint Simons or Detroit Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Saint Simons
Detroit

Detroit 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 Detroit. There's a streetcar and bus system, but the car is still king in Motor City.

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

Is Saint Simons or Detroit a more walkable city?

Saint Simons
Detroit

Saint Simons and Detroit both are nice when exploring on foot.

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.

Detroit is a somewhat walkable place. There are parts of downtown Detroit that are walkable, but most people need a car to get around.

For even more information, also check out Is Saint Simons Worth Visiting? and Is Detroit Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Detroit or Saint Simons?

How long in Saint Simons or Detroit?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Saint Simons and Detroit. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Saint Simons than in Detroit. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Saint Simons, and 1-3 days is enough time in Detroit.

Families should spend more time in Saint Simons than Detroit. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Saint Simons, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

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


  • How many days in Saint Simons or Detroit? Ideal Length of Stay
    Saint Simons 2-4 
    Detroit 1-3

One day in Saint Simons or Detroit?

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.

In Detroit, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this overlooked city offers. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. In one day, you should have a good grasp of this city.


A weekend in Saint Simons or Detroit?

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.

Detroit is a fun place to experience. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. Lots of people come for the live music. So, a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

Five days in Saint Simons or Detroit?

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.

You'll find nightlife and live music around the overlooked destination of Detroit. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Lots of people come for the live music. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days.

A week in Saint Simons or Detroit?

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.

Detroit is a popular place to visit. 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.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Family-Friendly Tours to United States of America, The Best Wildlife Tours to United States of America, The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in United States of America, and The Best Historical Tours in United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Detroit or Saint Simons?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Saint Simons is $176, while the average daily cost in Detroit is $133. 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 Saint Simons and Detroit in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Saint Simons $100
    Detroit $64
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Saint Simons $200
    Detroit $128
Compare Hotels in Saint Simons and Detroit

Looking for a hotel in Saint Simons or Detroit? 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 Saint Simons


Hotels in Detroit


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: Saint Simons Hotel Prices and Detroit Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Saint Simons $49
    Detroit $37

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Detroit

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

  • Departure Private Transfer: Detroit to Detroit Airport DTW in Business Car: $99
  • Departure Private Transfer: Detroit to Detroit Airport DTW in Luxury SUV: $130
  • Detroit Airport (DTW) to Detroit City - Arrival Private Transfer: $94
  • Detroit Airport (DTW) to Detroit City - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $187
  • Detroit City to Detroit Airport (DTW) - Departure Private Transfer: $94
  • Private Arrival Transfer - from Detroit Airport (DTW) by SUV: $90
  • Private Departure Transfer - to Detroit Airport (DTW) by SUV: $90
  • Private Departure Transfer to Detroit Airport DTW: $61
  • Private Transfer from Detroit (DTW) Airport to Detroit City: $142
  • Private Transfer from Detroit City to Detroit (DTW) Airport: $142

Is it cheaper to fly into Saint Simons or Detroit?

Prices for flights to both Detroit and Saint Simons 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
    Saint Simons $48
    Detroit $44

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Detroit

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

  • Fresh Mediterranean Inspired Cooking Class in a Unique Detroit Home: $104

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Saint Simons $16
    Detroit $21

Tours and Activities in Detroit

For Detroit, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • Spirit and History Self Guided Audio Tour: $6.50
  • Self Guided "Detroit's Spirit and History" Solo Walking Tour: $7.75
  • Detroit Tigers Baseball Game Ticket at Comerica Park: $9.31
  • Scavenger Hunt Adventure in Ann Arbor by Wacky Walks: $10
  • Scavenger Hunt Adventure in Ann Arbor by Crazy Dash: $10
  • Scavenger Hunt Adventure Self-Guided City Game: $10
  • Scavenger Hunt Adventure in Windsor by Wacky Walks: $10
  • Ann Arbor Scavenger Hunt: Ann Arbor Adventure: $12
  • Murder Mystery Detective Experience Ann Arbor, MI: $15
  • Experience the season with a scavenger hunt in Ann Arbor with Holly Jolly Hunt: $20
  • SEA LIFE Michigan Aquarium Admission Ticket: $25
  • Ghosts and Spirits Haunted Walking Tour: $26

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Saint Simons $60
    Detroit $20


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Saint Simons and Detroit, we can see that Saint Simons is more expensive. And not only is Detroit much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Detroit would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Detroit 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 Saint Simons would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Saint Simons than you might in Detroit.

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


Which is Bigger, Saint Simons or Detroit?

Detroit has a larger population, and is about 70 times larger than the population of Saint Simons. When comparing the sizes of Saint Simons and Detroit, 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 Saint Simons or Detroit?

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 Saint Simons or Detroit in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Saint Simons as well as Detroit. Many travelers come to Saint Simons for the beaches, the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Detroit in the summer for the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Saint Simons is a little warmer than Detroit. Typically, the summer temperatures in Saint Simons in July average around 82°F (28°C), and Detroit averages at about 74°F (24°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Detroit. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Saint Simons this time of the year. In the summer, Saint Simons often gets less sunshine than Detroit. Saint Simons gets 286 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Detroit receives 319 hours of full sun.

Saint Simons receives a lot of rain in the summer. Saint Simons usually gets more rain in July than Detroit. Saint Simons gets 5.4 inches (137 mm) of rain, while Detroit receives 3.4 inches (85 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Saint Simons 82°F (28°C) 
    Detroit 74°F (24°C)

Should I visit Saint Simons or Detroit in the Autumn?

Both Detroit and Saint Simons are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Saint Simons in the autumn for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, most visitors come to Detroit for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the music scene during these months.

In October, Saint Simons is generally much warmer than Detroit. Daily temperatures in Saint Simons average around 70°F (21°C), and Detroit fluctuates around 54°F (12°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Saint Simons. Saint Simons usually receives more sunshine than Detroit during autumn. Saint Simons gets 214 hours of sunny skies, while Detroit receives 172 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Saint Simons usually receives more rain than Detroit. Saint Simons gets 2.9 inches (73 mm) of rain, while Detroit receives 2.3 inches (58 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Saint Simons 70°F (21°C) 
    Detroit 54°F (12°C)

Should I visit Saint Simons or Detroit in the Winter?

Both Detroit and Saint Simons during the winter are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Saint Simons for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Furthermore, the winter months attract visitors to Detroit because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

The weather in Detroit can be very cold. Saint Simons is much warmer than Detroit in the winter. The daily temperature in Saint Simons averages around 53°F (12°C) in January, and Detroit fluctuates around 25°F (-4°C).

In the winter, Saint Simons often gets more sunshine than Detroit. Saint Simons gets 191 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Detroit receives 120 hours of full sun.

Saint Simons usually gets more rain in January than Detroit. Saint Simons gets 3.3 inches (83 mm) of rain, while Detroit receives 2 inches (50 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Saint Simons 53°F (12°C) 
    Detroit 25°F (-4°C)

Should I visit Saint Simons or Detroit in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Saint Simons and Detroit. The spring months attract visitors to Saint Simons because of the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty. Furthermore, the activities around the city are the main draw to Detroit this time of year.

In the spring, Saint Simons is much warmer than Detroit. Typically, the spring temperatures in Saint Simons in April average around 68°F (20°C), and Detroit averages at about 49°F (9°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Detroit this time of the year. In Saint Simons, it's very sunny this time of the year. Saint Simons usually receives more sunshine than Detroit during spring. Saint Simons gets 285 hours of sunny skies, while Detroit receives 223 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Saint Simons usually receives less rain than Detroit. Saint Simons gets 2.8 inches (72 mm) of rain, while Detroit receives 3.2 inches (80 mm) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Saint Simons 68°F (20°C) 
    Detroit 49°F (9°C)

Typical Weather for Detroit and Saint Simons

Saint Simons Detroit
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 53°F (12°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm) 25°F (-4°C) 2 inches (50 mm)
Feb 56°F (13°C) 3.9 inches (100 mm) 27°F (-3°C) 2.1 inches (54 mm)
Mar 62°F (17°C) 3.7 inches (93 mm) 37°F (3°C) 2.8 inches (72 mm)
Apr 68°F (20°C) 2.8 inches (72 mm) 49°F (9°C) 3.2 inches (80 mm)
May 74°F (24°C) 3.7 inches (93 mm) 60°F (16°C) 3 inches (76 mm)
Jun 80°F (27°C) 5.7 inches (146 mm) 70°F (21°C) 3.8 inches (97 mm)
Jul 82°F (28°C) 5.4 inches (137 mm) 74°F (24°C) 3.4 inches (85 mm)
Aug 82°F (28°C) 7.8 inches (199 mm) 73°F (23°C) 3.4 inches (86 mm)
Sep 79°F (26°C) 7.1 inches (180 mm) 65°F (19°C) 3.4 inches (87 mm)
Oct 70°F (21°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm) 54°F (12°C) 2.3 inches (58 mm)
Nov 62°F (17°C) 2.2 inches (55 mm) 43°F (6°C) 3 inches (75 mm)
Dec 56°F (13°C) 2.7 inches (69 mm) 31°F (-1°C) 3.2 inches (82 mm)