A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Sarasota vs. Avon for Families, Attractions, Food, and Nightlife

Should you visit Sarasota or Avon?

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

Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for Sarasota and Avon. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.

Sarasota

Sarasota is a underrated, relaxing, and entertaining city. It's also known for food, beaches, and shopping.

Avon

Avon is a scenic, active, and outdoorsy town. Visitors also love the hiking, skiing, and nightlife.

Sarasota and Avon: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Popular beach
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with backpackers
Pros
  • Popular for skiing
  • Active nightlife
  • Good for hiking
  • Good for couples and romance
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • Less family-friendly
  • Less popular with backpackers


Is there more to do in Sarasota or Avon?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Avon. Although Sarasota and Avon are popular destinations, Avon has more sights and attractions for tourists. Avon is very popular for its skiing and hiking, while Sarasota attracts visitors for its museums, beaches, and shopping. Sarasota is famous for its sandy beaches and its fun activities. Avon is famous for it's affordable accommodation options and its access to Beaver Creek Ski Resort. It is also well known for Avon Recreation Center.

How is Sarasota different from Avon?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Sarasota or Avon Better for Skiing?

Sarasota
Avon

Avon is great for skiing. However, Sarasota is not a skiing destination.

Visitors travel far to experience snow skiing in Avon. Beaver Creek is the main ski area near town and it's about a mile away. The town of Avon is below Beaver Creek and is located beside an interstate.

Sarasota is not a skiing destination.


Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Sarasota or Avon?

Sarasota
Avon

Sarasota is notable for its sights and museums. However, Avon is a mediocre town for its museums and history.

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around Sarasota. There are some decent museums in town such as the John and Mable Ringling Museum of Art, the Sarasota Classic Car Museum, and the Ca' da'Zan. Another highlight is the Mote Marine Laboratory and Aquarium.

While most people don't head to Avon specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. While there aren't a ton of museums in the area, it's worth checking out the Walking Mountains Science Center.

Is the Food Better in Sarasota or Avon? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Sarasota
Avon

There are opportunities to sample the local cuisine at nice restaurants in both Sarasota and Avon.

Sarasota has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. You'll find plenty of seafood around town, but there are also international restaurants and quirky local joints.

There are many up and coming restaurants in the Avon area. There are casual eateries where you can grab a bite to eat, whether you're in the mood for Chinese, pizza, or burgers.

Is Sarasota or Avon Better for Nightlife?

Sarasota
Avon

The vibe at night is nice in both Sarasota and Avon.

If you're looking for night time activities Sarasota has a few options to choose from. You'll find beach clubs, live entertainment such as drum circles, and plenty of bars around town. There are also evening cruises and late night parties.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Avon. It's a small town but there are some bars and lively pubs where you can enjoy cold drinks.


Is Sarasota or Avon Better for Resorts?

Sarasota
Avon

There are nice resorts to choose from in both Sarasota and Avon.

With a selection of resorts, Sarasota makes a nice vacation spot. You'll find beachfront resorts with pools and nice views.

Avon has a few great resort options. There are the typical chain resort options, many with beautiful mountain views.

Is Sarasota or Avon Better for Beaches?

Sarasota
Avon

Sarasota is a good destination for its beaches. However, Avon is not a beach destination.

Sarasota offers a nice beach destination. There's no shortage of beaches in the area where you can spend a relaxing day playing the water and lounging in the sun. Siesta Key, Sarasota Gay Beach, Crescent Beach, and Coquina Beach are some of the favorites.

Avon is not a beach destination.

Is Sarasota or Avon Better for Hiking?

Sarasota
Avon

Avon is a good destination for hiking. However, Sarasota is not a hiking destination.

Avon offers some nice hiking trails. There are paved trails and recreational paths through town that are great for both hiking and biking. The main ones are Eagle Valley Trail and the trails in West Avon Preserve.

Sarasota is not a hiking destination.


Is the Shopping Better in Sarasota or Avon?

Sarasota
Avon

Sarasota is a good destination for shopping. However, Avon is a mediocre town for its shopping opportunities.

Sarasota is a great destination for shopping. Upscale shopping can be found at St. Armand's Circle. There's also Sarasota Square Mall and the Mall at University Town Center. If you want to pick up some local items you can check out Sarasota Farmers Market.

If you're looking to go shopping, Avon has some nice offerings. There aren't a ton of shopping opportunities in town, but there are enough shops around in case you need to pick up necessities or buy a gift.

Is Sarasota or Avon Better for Families?

Sarasota
Avon

Sarasota is a must-visit destination for its family-friendly activities. Also, Avon is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

With a huge array of activities for kids, Sarasota is very family-friendly. There's a huge number of hands on activities for kids and families in the area. Many families enjoy a visit to Mote Marine Laboratory and Aquarium. There are also botanical gardens, science museums, and outdoor adventure centers. Animal lovers will appreciate a visit to Big Cat Habitat and Gulf Coast Sanctuary. The city also has many performing arts and entertainment options for kids. And make sure you check out the museum dedicated to the Ringling Brothers Circus.

Avon is a family-friendly city. There are parks and playgrounds around town and there's easy access to the Beaver Creek Ski Resort. There's also plenty of hiking in the area.

Is Sarasota or Avon Better for Couples?

Sarasota
Avon

Sarasota and Avon both nice destinations for a couple.

Sarasota makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. A night out at St. Armands Circle is a fun way to spend the evening. There are also sunset cruises, nice restaurants, comedy clubs, and more.

Avon is a good city for couples to visit. While avid skiers prefer to stay at nearby Beaver Creek, the town of Avon offers a good alternative.


Is Sarasota or Avon Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Sarasota
Avon

Avon is a good destination for times when you don't have a car. However, Sarasota is not a good destination for its public transit.

While Avon offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There are shuttles and buses that travel through town and to Beaver Creek.

Public transit is generally limited in Sarasota. There's a bus system around town but most visitors depend on their own car for transportation.

Is Sarasota or Avon a more walkable city?

Sarasota
Avon

Avon is a good destination for its high level of walkability. However, Sarasota is not a good destination for its ease of walking around.

Avon is a somewhat walkable place. The town center is small and there are paved walking trails that you can use. It's possible to walk to restaurants or the recreation center, depending on where you're staying.

Sarasota is generally not very walkable. While the downtown has some walkable parts, you'll need a car to access most things around town.

For even more information, also check out Is Sarasota Worth Visiting? and Is Avon Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Avon or Sarasota?

How long in Sarasota or Avon?

It's fun to spend time in either Sarasota or Avon. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Sarasota due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 2-5 days is a good amount of time for Sarasota, and 2-4 days is enough time in Avon.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Avon than Sarasota 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 Avon.


  • How many days in Sarasota or Avon? Ideal Length of Stay
    Sarasota 2-5 
    Avon 2-4

One day in Sarasota or Avon?

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the destination of Sarasota. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

The town of Avon offers skiing and nightlife. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.


A weekend in Sarasota or Avon?

Sarasota is a fun place to experience. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. A weekend is often enough time to do most activities. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Avon is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this town makes for a great vacation. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Avon, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Sarasota or Avon?

Visitors enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the relaxing destination of Sarasota. This city offers something for everyone. Plenty of people spend five days in the area when traveling. Five days is often enough time to do most activities.

Avon is a popular choice for travelers. Five days 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. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A week in Sarasota or Avon?

The relaxing city of Sarasota offers nightlife and food. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. 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.

Avon is a great place to explore. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This town offers something for everyone.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best G Adventures Tours to United States of America, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Las Vegas, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Anchorage, and The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Los Angeles.


Which place is cheaper, Avon or Sarasota?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Sarasota is $249, while the average daily cost in Avon is $277. 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 Sarasota and Avon in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Sarasota $108
    Avon $177
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Sarasota $216
    Avon $354
Compare Hotels in Sarasota and Avon

Looking for a hotel in Sarasota or Avon? 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 Sarasota


Hotels in Avon


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: Sarasota Hotel Prices and Avon Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Sarasota -
    Avon $41

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Sarasota

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

  • Sarasota to Sarasota–Bradenton Intl. Airport (SRQ) - Departure Private Transfer: $48
  • Sarasota–Bradenton Intl. Airport (SRQ) to Sarasota - Arrival Private Transfer: $48
  • Sarasota–Bradenton Airport (SRQ) to Sarasota Round-Trip Transfer: $96

Is it cheaper to fly into Sarasota or Avon?

Prices for flights to both Avon and Sarasota 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
    Sarasota $137
    Avon $67

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Sarasota

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

  • Sarasota Street Food Tour: $85
  • Taste of Downtown Food Tour: $105
  • Downtown Walking Food Tour in Sarasota: $110
  • Sarasota Kayak and Food Tour: $165

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Sarasota $11
    Avon $48

Tours and Activities in Sarasota

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

  • Sarasota Art Crawl Trolley Tour: $14
  • Palmetto: Haunted History Guided Walking Tour: $30
  • Robinson Preserve Nature Walk Eco Tour: $40
  • Mangroves, Manatees, and a Hidden Beach: Kayak Tour: $50
  • Adventure and Wildlife Watch Kayak Rentals in Sarasota: $50
  • Sharkey's Glass Bottom Fish Feeding LED Night Tour in Sarasota: $55
  • 2 Hours Guided Robinson Preserve Mangrove Tour: $55
  • Siesta Key Kayak Tour : $57
  • Kayak Paddling Experience at The Bay Park: $58
  • Sarasota Mangrove Tunnel Guided Kayak Adventure: $59
  • Sarasota Guided Mangrove Tunnel Kayak Tour: $59
  • Siesta Key Guided Eco Tour: $59

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Sarasota -
    Avon $38


When comparing the travel costs between Sarasota and Avon, we can see that Avon 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 Sarasota Expensive? and Is Avon Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Sarasota or Avon?

Sarasota has a larger population, and is about 8 times larger than the population of Avon. When comparing the sizes of Sarasota and Avon, 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.