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

Should you visit Tallahassee or Monterey?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Tallahassee and Monterey can help. It includes a travel cost comparison in addition to other factors. For many travelers, the cost of a destination is a primary consideration when choosing where to go.

Tallahassee

Tallahassee is a lively, vibrant, and youthful city. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and shopping.

Monterey

Monterey is a nature-oriented, laid back, and relaxing city. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food.

Tallahassee and Monterey: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for food
  • Less family-friendly
  • Less popular with couples
  • Less walkable
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Good scuba and snorkeling destination
  • Popular beach
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Very walkable


Is there more to do in Tallahassee or Monterey?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Monterey. Although Tallahassee and Monterey are popular destinations, Monterey has more sights and attractions for tourists. Monterey is more touristy than Tallahassee and is known for its rugged coastline, diverse marine life, and excellent seafood. It is also well known for the Monterey Bay Aquarium. Tallahassee is famous for its capital building and many universities.

How is Tallahassee different from Monterey?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Tallahassee or Monterey?

Tallahassee
Monterey

You'll find a number of very good museums and attractions in both Monterey and Tallahassee.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into Tallahassee. As the capital city of Florida, you'll find a number of museums around town. Tallahassee Museum has outdoor and indoor space to explore. You can also visit the Tallahassee Automobile Museum, the Museum of Florida History, or the Florida Historic Capital Museum.

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around Monterey. The Monterey Bay Aquarium is a not-to-be-missed destination in town. You can also visit the Monterey State Historic Park or the Monterey Museum of Art.


Is the Food Better in Tallahassee or Monterey? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Tallahassee
Monterey

Monterey is great for its local flavors and cuisine. However, Tallahassee is not a good destination for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Monterey has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. Seafood and local produce are what make the food special. There are many great restaurants to you can choose from that will let you enjoy the classic seafood dishes like clam chowder or oysters, as well as fresh artichokes and local wine.

Tallahassee offers some easy restaurants to choose from. You'll find plenty of chain restaurants and cheap eateries that cater to the students. The main options are classic American restaurants with a few international restaurants mixed in as well.

Is Tallahassee or Monterey Better for Nightlife?

Tallahassee
Monterey

Monterey is great for its evening party scene. Also, Tallahassee is not as popular, but is still a nice city for nightlife.

Many people head to Monterey for the nightlife scene. There's a buzzing atmosphere at night with bars, breweries, and casual eateries all coming to life. Some of the best venues are found at the Old Fisherman's Wharf and along Alvarado Street.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Tallahassee. The nightlife scene is mostly centered around the student population. There are many bars and pubs that fill up with students on weekends.

Is Tallahassee or Monterey Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Tallahassee
Monterey

Monterey is a city with good options for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Tallahassee is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

It's fun to get in the water and check out the local marine life in Monterey. Scuba diving offers an unforgettable experience. The Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary gives you the unique experience of seeing sea lions, otters, kelp forests, crabs, and more.

Tallahassee is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.


Is Tallahassee or Monterey Better for Beaches?

Tallahassee
Monterey

Monterey is a city with good options for the beach. However, Tallahassee is not a beach destination.

Plenty of visitors enjoy relaxing on the beach in Monterey. The beaches highlight the laid by California vibe with sunbathers and beachgoers soaking up the atmosphere. There are both inlets and sandy beaches where you can see sea lions or explore the tidal pools.

Tallahassee is not a beach destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Tallahassee or Monterey?

Tallahassee
Monterey

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

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in Monterey. You'll find both local vendors and tourist shops around town. Cannery Row is a popular destination, as is Old Fisherman's Wharf and the Old Farmer's Market.

Tallahassee is a great destination for shopping. There is no shortage of strip malls and shopping centers in the area. Some of the most interesting shopping is found at Railroad Square and Market Square.

Is Tallahassee or Monterey Better for Families?

Tallahassee
Monterey

Monterey is an amazing city to visit for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Tallahassee is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its family-friendly activities.

Monterey is an extremely popular city to visit for families. Monterey Bay Aquarium is a highlight for kids and adults alike. There's also the Monterey Zoo as well as lighthearted activities like a mirror maze. MY Museum is an interactive museum that's perfect for younger kids. There are also whale watching trips and nearby beaches.

Tallahassee is a family-friendly place to visit. There are plenty of outdoor parks and adventure activities for kids. You could also see the wild manatees at Wakulla Springs.


Is Tallahassee or Monterey Better for Couples?

Tallahassee
Monterey

Monterey is great for couples. However, Tallahassee is not a good destination for romance.

Monterey is a great city if you're traveling as a couple. There are many romantic inns in town as well as quaint restaurants and fun activities. There are also spas, wine bars, and plenty of shopping for couples to enjoy as well.

Tallahassee is not the best destination for a couple to visit. Head to a restaurant or bar. You could also check out a concert or explore a garden or park in town.

Is Tallahassee or Monterey Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Tallahassee
Monterey

For backpackers, both Tallahassee and Monterey are nice places to visit.

Tallahassee is a good city to visit for backpackers. The student population creates an environment that is welcoming to backpackers. There's also a hostel in town with affordable rooms.

Plenty of backpackers visit Monterey. There's a hostel in town as well as fun activities that will appeal to backpackers.

Is Tallahassee or Monterey Better for Students?

Tallahassee
Monterey

Tallahassee is a very popular place for its student-friendly activities. However, Monterey is not popular with students.

Many students visit Tallahassee. Both Florida State University and Florida A&M University are located here. There's a large student population with many activities and cheap restaurants that appeal to the student crowd.

Monterey is not popular with students.


Is Tallahassee or Monterey Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Tallahassee
Monterey

Tallahassee and Monterey both offer reasonable public transit to get you around.

Public transit is mostly limited in Tallahassee. There is a bus system operated by StarMetro.

Public transit is generally limited in Monterey. There is a bus system through the area.

Is Tallahassee or Monterey a more walkable city?

Tallahassee
Monterey

Monterey is great for its ease of walking around. However, Tallahassee is not a good destination for its walkability.

Monterey is a very walkable destination. If you stay near the town center, it's very walkable and easy to get around on foot.

Tallahassee is generally not very walkable. There are a couple of walkable areas around Railroad Square, Downtown, and Midtown, but for the most part the city is not pedestrian-friendly.

For even more information, also check out Is Tallahassee Worth Visiting? and Is Monterey Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Monterey or Tallahassee?

How long in Tallahassee or Monterey?

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

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Monterey than Tallahassee 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 Monterey.


  • How many days in Tallahassee or Monterey? Ideal Length of Stay
    Tallahassee 1-2 
    Monterey 1-3

One day in Tallahassee or Monterey?

The city of Tallahassee offers nightlife and shopping. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one day here. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Visitors enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping when visiting the relaxing city of Monterey. One day should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.


A weekend in Tallahassee or Monterey?

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

Visitors enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the nature-oriented destination of Monterey. This city offers something for everyone. Plenty of people spend a weekend in the area when traveling. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

Five days in Tallahassee or Monterey?

Tallahassee 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.

The nature-oriented city of Monterey offers museums and nightlife. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

A week in Tallahassee or Monterey?

Tallahassee 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 city offers something for everyone.

Many people enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting Monterey. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.


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, Monterey or Tallahassee?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Tallahassee is $156, while the average daily cost in Monterey is $170. 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 Tallahassee and Monterey in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Tallahassee $89
    Monterey $90
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Tallahassee $178
    Monterey $180
Compare Hotels in Tallahassee and Monterey

Looking for a hotel in Tallahassee or Monterey? 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 Tallahassee


Hotels in Monterey


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: Tallahassee Hotel Prices and Monterey Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Tallahassee $33
    Monterey $32

Is it cheaper to fly into Tallahassee or Monterey?

Prices for flights to both Monterey and Tallahassee 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
    Tallahassee $47
    Monterey $56

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Monterey

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

  • Guided Walking Food Tour with Tastings: $150

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Tallahassee $12
    Monterey $27

Tours and Activities in Tallahassee

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

  • Experience Tranquility with a Picnic at Pedrick Pond Park: $120
  • Luxury Picnic Experience at Pedrick Pond Park: $120
  • Tallahassee Delights: A Christmas Tour Through Art and Parks: $245
  • Tallahassee Delights: A Christmas Tour Through Art and Parks: $483
  • Tallahassee Tranquility: A Scenic Walking Tour: $192
  • Tallahassee Tranquility: A Scenic Walking Tour: $376

Tours and Activities in Monterey

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

  • Big Sur: Sightseeing Tour with 4 to 5 Stops: $125
  • California: Self-Guided Driving Tours Bundle: $40
  • From San Francisco: Monterey and Carmel Day Tour: $114
  • Monterey Bay: Sunset Catamaran Sailing Cruise: $95
  • Monterey Bay: Whale Watching Tour: $70
  • Monterey Cannery Row: Self-Guided Scavenger Hunt & Tour: $49
  • Monterey County Salinas Valley Farm Tour: $120
  • Monterey Fisherman's Wharf & Presidio Scavenger Hunt & Tour: $49
  • Monterey Peninsula Drive: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $8.99
  • Monterey Peninsula Sightseeing Tour along the 17 Mile Drive: $115
  • 17-Mile Drive Guided E-Bike Tour: $79
  • 17-Mile Drive Pebble Beach E-Bike Tour: $75

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Tallahassee $53
    Monterey $21

Sample the Local Flavors in Monterey

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Monterey:

  • Carmel Valley Wine Tasting Tour: $150


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


Which is Bigger, Tallahassee or Monterey?

Tallahassee has a larger population, and is about 5 times larger than the population of Monterey. When comparing the sizes of Tallahassee and Monterey, 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 Tallahassee or Monterey?

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 Tallahassee or Monterey in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Tallahassee and Monterey. The family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Tallahassee this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Monterey for the beaches, snorkeling, and the family-friendly experiences.

Tallahassee is much warmer than Monterey in the summer. The daily temperature in Tallahassee averages around 82°F (28°C) in July, and Monterey fluctuates around 63°F (17°C).

Tallahassee gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In July, Tallahassee usually receives more rain than Monterey. Tallahassee gets 8.9 inches (227 mm) of rain, while Monterey receives 0 inches (1 mm) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Tallahassee 82°F (28°C) 
    Monterey 63°F (17°C)

Should I visit Tallahassee or Monterey in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Tallahassee as well as Monterey. Many travelers come to Tallahassee for the shopping scene. Additionally, many visitors come to Monterey in the autumn for the shopping scene.

In the autumn, Tallahassee is a little warmer than Monterey. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Tallahassee in October average around 69°F (20°C), and Monterey averages at about 62°F (17°C).

Tallahassee usually gets more rain in October than Monterey. Tallahassee gets 2.9 inches (74 mm) of rain, while Monterey receives 0.6 inches (14 mm) of rain this time of the year. Also, the hurricane season in Tallahassee is June to November.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Tallahassee 69°F (20°C) 
    Monterey 62°F (17°C)

Should I visit Tallahassee or Monterey in the Winter?

Both Monterey and Tallahassee are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Tallahassee in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Monterey for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

In January, Tallahassee is generally around the same temperature as Monterey. Daily temperatures in Tallahassee average around 51°F (11°C), and Monterey fluctuates around 51°F (11°C).

In January, Tallahassee usually receives more rain than Monterey. Tallahassee gets 3.7 inches (95 mm) of rain, while Monterey receives 2.3 inches (58 mm) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Tallahassee 51°F (11°C) 
    Monterey 51°F (11°C)

Should I visit Tallahassee or Monterey in the Spring?

Both Monterey and Tallahassee during the spring are popular places to visit. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Monterey because of the beaches.

Tallahassee is a little warmer than Monterey in the spring. The daily temperature in Tallahassee averages around 67°F (19°C) in April, and Monterey fluctuates around 56°F (13°C).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Tallahassee. Tallahassee usually gets more rain in April than Monterey. Tallahassee gets 4.1 inches (103 mm) of rain, while Monterey receives 1.1 inches (29 mm) of rain this time of the year. Keep in mind that June to November is the hurricane season in Tallahassee.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Tallahassee 67°F (19°C) 
    Monterey 56°F (13°C)

Typical Weather for Monterey and Tallahassee

Tallahassee Monterey
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 51°F (11°C) 3.7 inches (95 mm) 51°F (11°C) 2.3 inches (58 mm)
Feb 54°F (12°C) 4.8 inches (121 mm) 53°F (12°C) 1.8 inches (47 mm)
Mar 60°F (16°C) 5.9 inches (151 mm) 54°F (12°C) 2.1 inches (55 mm)
Apr 67°F (19°C) 4.1 inches (103 mm) 56°F (13°C) 1.1 inches (29 mm)
May 74°F (23°C) 4.1 inches (103 mm) 59°F (15°C) 0.2 inches (4 mm)
Jun 80°F (27°C) 6.6 inches (168 mm) 62°F (16°C) 0.1 inches (2 mm)
Jul 82°F (28°C) 8.9 inches (227 mm) 63°F (17°C) 0 inches (1 mm)
Aug 82°F (28°C) 6.9 inches (175 mm) 64°F (18°C) 0.1 inches (2 mm)
Sep 78°F (26°C) 6.7 inches (169 mm) 64°F (18°C) 0.2 inches (6 mm)
Oct 69°F (20°C) 2.9 inches (74 mm) 62°F (17°C) 0.6 inches (14 mm)
Nov 60°F (16°C) 2.8 inches (71 mm) 56°F (13°C) 1.8 inches (45 mm)
Dec 54°F (12°C) 4.2 inches (107 mm) 51°F (10°C) 2 inches (51 mm)