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

Should you visit Tallahassee or Philadelphia?

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 Philadelphia 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 youthful, lively, and vibrant city. Visitors also love the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Philadelphia

Philadelphia is a cultural, diverse, and historic city. As it's a big city, visitors will find plenty to do, too. It offers plenty of beauty for visitors. It's also popular because of the theater, nightlife, and live music.

Tallahassee and Philadelphia: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for food
  • Less popular with couples
  • Public transit not as usable
  • Less walkable
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Numerous theater shows
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Scenic old town
  • Popular at Christmas
  • Known for Christmas markets
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good public transit
  • Very walkable
  • Big city activities


Is there more to do in Tallahassee or Philadelphia?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Philadelphia than Tallahassee, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Philadelphia is more touristy than Tallahassee and is known for its diverse population, large number of universities, great restaurant and market scene, and its role in American history. It is also home to The Liberty Bell. Tallahassee is popular for its capital building and many universities.

How is Tallahassee different from Philadelphia?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Tallahassee
Philadelphia

Philadelphia is an amazing city to visit for its historical sights. Also, Tallahassee is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its sights and museums.

With plenty of landmarks, attractions, and museums, Philadelphia has many famous sights for visitors. The city has a rich history with a number of museums and monuments. Popular sites around the city include the Liberty Bell, Independence Hall, the Philadelphia Museum of Art, and the National Museum of Jewish American History.

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around 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.


Is Tallahassee or Philadelphia Better for Theater?

Tallahassee
Philadelphia

Philadelphia is great for its shows and theatre. However, Tallahassee is not a theatre destination.

Philadelphia attracts a wide-range of world-class performances. There are major Broadway shows as well as smaller venues. Head to The Avenue of the Arts along Broad Street for a popular stretch of theaters.

Tallahassee is not a theatre destination.

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

Tallahassee
Philadelphia

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

Philadelphia has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. It has grown into a well-recognized food destination. It's diversity of cultures and residents have influenced the restaurant scene and you'll find many great places to dine covering a number of international flavors. The city is famous for its Philly cheesesteak and roast pork sandwich. You can also grab some local favorites at Reading Terminal Market.

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 Philadelphia Better for Nightlife?

Tallahassee
Philadelphia

Philadelphia 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 Philadelphia for the nightlife scene. The city's nightlife scene carries late into the evening with many rooftop and outdoor beer gardens. Most of the clubs and bars are found in the downtown area and you'll find places to dance, listen to live music, or sip a trendy cocktails.

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 Philadelphia Better for Music?

Tallahassee
Philadelphia

Philadelphia is great for its music scene. However, Tallahassee is not a live music destination.

The music scene in Philadelphia draws a good crowd. The city's diverse music scene includes jazz, rock, and hip hop.

Tallahassee is not a live music destination.

Is Tallahassee or Philadelphia Better for its Old Town?

Tallahassee
Philadelphia

Philadelphia is a city with good options for its historic old town charm. However, Tallahassee does not have a historic old town.

Philadelphia has an old town worth visiting. The Old City has a number of Colonial-era sites including Independence Hall, the Liberty Bell, the Betsy Ross House.

Tallahassee does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Tallahassee or Philadelphia?

Tallahassee
Philadelphia

Philadelphia 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 Philadelphia. With all items tax-free, this city is a great place to shop. It has many boutique shops as well as name brand stores and shopping areas. For a local vibe, head to Reading Terminal 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 Philadelphia Better for Christmas?

Tallahassee
Philadelphia

Philadelphia is great for its Christmas holiday experiences. However, Tallahassee does not offer Christmas activities.

Philadelphia is a very popular destination during Christmas. There are a number of holiday events, light shows, and festivals during the holiday season.

Tallahassee does not offer Christmas activities.

Is Tallahassee or Philadelphia Better for Christmas Markets?

Tallahassee
Philadelphia

Philadelphia is a city with good options for visiting Christmas markets. However, Tallahassee does not offer Christmas markets.

Philadelphia is a nice place to see Christmas markets. The city has its own German style Christmas market at Love Park and City Hall. It hosts over 80 vendors.

Tallahassee does not offer Christmas markets.

Is Tallahassee or Philadelphia Better for Families?

Tallahassee
Philadelphia

Philadelphia is great for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Tallahassee is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its family-friendly activities.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Philadelphia. The city has many museums and a fascinating history that is interesting to kids and adults alike. Popular activities include a zoo and Sesame Place. Kids also love the hands-on Please Touch Museum.

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 Philadelphia Better for Couples?

Tallahassee
Philadelphia

Philadelphia is a city with good options for couples. However, Tallahassee is not a good destination for romance.

Philadelphia is a good city for couples to visit. Like many large cities, it is a fun place to explore in the evening as a couple. This is also a great foodie destination with great markets, food trucks, and diverse restaurants that reflect the city's diverse population.

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 Philadelphia Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Tallahassee
Philadelphia

For backpackers, both Tallahassee and Philadelphia are good 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 Philadelphia. There are a few good hostels for backpackers and budget travelers to choose from.

Is Tallahassee or Philadelphia Better for Students?

Tallahassee
Philadelphia

For students, both Tallahassee and Philadelphia are high quality places to visit.

Students come from all over to stay in 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.

Many students visit Philadelphia. With its many universities and diverse population, this city is a great place for international students.


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

Tallahassee
Philadelphia

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

Philadelphia offers a very effecient public transportation network. The system includes a subway, trolleys, buses, and a commuter rail.

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

Is Tallahassee or Philadelphia a more walkable city?

Tallahassee
Philadelphia

Philadelphia is an amazing city to visit for its ease of walking around. However, Tallahassee is not a good destination for its walkability.

Philadelphia is a very easy city to get around on foot. The Old City is particularly walkable, as is Avenue of the Arts, and Rittenhouse Square.

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 Philadelphia Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Philadelphia or Tallahassee?

How long in Tallahassee or Philadelphia?

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

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Philadelphia 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 Philadelphia.


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

One day in Tallahassee or Philadelphia?

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

Philadelphia is a diverse city where you can fill many days. Most people visit for the museums. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.


A weekend in Tallahassee or Philadelphia?

Tallahassee 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. So, a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

Philadelphia is a historic big city where you can fill many days. 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 Philadelphia?

You'll find nightlife and shopping around the vibrant destination of Tallahassee. 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.

The historic city of Philadelphia offers food and shopping. 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 Philadelphia?

Tallahassee 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.

Many people enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting Philadelphia. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Most people visit for the museums. 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, Philadelphia 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 Philadelphia is $188. 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 Philadelphia in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Tallahassee $89
    Philadelphia $119
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Tallahassee $178
    Philadelphia $238
Compare Hotels in Tallahassee and Philadelphia

Looking for a hotel in Tallahassee or Philadelphia? 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 Philadelphia


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 Philadelphia Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Tallahassee $33
    Philadelphia $28

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Philadelphia

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

  • Philadelphia Airport (PHL): Private Transfer to Philadelphia: $352
  • Philadelphia City to New York City - Private Car Transfer: $188
  • Philadelphia to Philadelphia Airport (PHL) - Departure Private Transfer: $65

Is it cheaper to fly into Tallahassee or Philadelphia?

Prices for flights to both Philadelphia 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
    Philadelphia $49

Typical Food Prices in Philadelphia

For Philadelphia, here are some examples of average food and meal prices for travelers:


  • Casual Lunch (for 3)
    $27

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Philadelphia

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

  • Flavors of Philly Food Tour: $52
  • Locals' Favorites Food Tour: $52
  • Buffet Brunch, Lunch, or Dinner Cruise: $58
  • Best of Philadelphia Food Tour-Small Group Walking Tour: $59
  • Philadelphia's Delicious Donut Adventure & Walking Food Tour: $65
  • Flavors of Philly Food Tour: $65
  • Bites and Booze: Walking Food Tour in Philadelphia : $65
  • 9th Street Italian Market Walking Food Tour: $69
  • Secret Food Tour: $83
  • Highlights of East Passyunk Food Tour: $85
  • Chef-Led Taste of the Italian Market Food Tour: $90
  • Spirit of Philadelphia Signature Dinner Cruise with Buffet: $95

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Tallahassee $12
    Philadelphia $28

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: $247
  • Tallahassee Delights: A Christmas Tour Through Art and Parks: $482
  • Tallahassee Tranquility: A Scenic Walking Tour: $192
  • Tallahassee Tranquility: A Scenic Walking Tour: $375

Typical Entertainment Prices in Philadelphia

Below are a few sample prices from actual travelers for Philadelphia's activities, tours, and tickets:


  • Big Bus Tour (family of 3)
    $99

Tours and Activities in Philadelphia

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

  • A Magical Christmas Tour in Philadelphia: $552
  • Amazing Philadelphia Scavenger Hunt Adventure: $44
  • Art and Controversy: An audio tour of Philadelphia's most infamous art scandals: $5.40
  • BYOB Historically Hilarious Trolley Tour of Philadelphia: $49
  • Best of Philadelphia Small Group Walking Tour: $104
  • Beyond the [Liberty] Bell History Walking Tour: $59
  • City Sightseeing Philadelphia Double Decker Hop-On Hop-Off (24, 48, 72 Hours): $68
  • City Sightseeing Philadelphia HOHO Bus Tour + Bookable Extras: $36
  • City Sightseeing Walking Tour – Founding Fathers and Mothers: $32
  • Classic Philadelphia City Bike Tour: $75
  • Cocktail Caravan: Philly Walking Bar Tour: $35
  • Dark Philly Adult Night Tour: $38

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

Sample the Local Flavors in Philadelphia

Also in Philadelphia, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • Liberty History Tour Pub Crawl: $45
  • Guided Tour with Pub Crawl: $45
  • Half-Day Philadelphia's Brewery Bike Tour with Tastings: $100
  • Philly Signature Guided Brewery Tour: $105
  • Guided Craft Brewery Tours with a Snack: $120


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

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


Which is Bigger, Tallahassee or Philadelphia?

Philadelphia has a larger population, and is about 10 times larger than the population of Tallahassee. When comparing the sizes of Tallahassee and Philadelphia, 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 Philadelphia?

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 Philadelphia in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Tallahassee and Philadelphia. Most visitors come to Tallahassee for the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Philadelphia because of the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Tallahassee is generally a little warmer than Philadelphia. Daily temperatures in Tallahassee average around 82°F (28°C), and Philadelphia fluctuates around 77°F (25°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Philadelphia this time of the year. In Tallahassee, it's very sunny this time of the year. Tallahassee usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Philadelphia during summer. Tallahassee gets 283 hours of sunny skies, while Philadelphia receives 273 hours of full sun in the summer.

Philadelphia receives a lot of rain in the summer. Tallahassee gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In July, Tallahassee usually receives more rain than Philadelphia. Tallahassee gets 8.9 inches (227 mm) of rain, while Philadelphia receives 3.9 inches (100 mm) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Tallahassee 82°F (28°C) 
    Philadelphia 77°F (25°C)

Should I visit Tallahassee or Philadelphia in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Tallahassee as well as Philadelphia. The autumn months attract visitors to Tallahassee because of the shopping scene. Also, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Philadelphia this time of year.

Tallahassee is a little warmer than Philadelphia in the autumn. The daily temperature in Tallahassee averages around 69°F (20°C) in October, and Philadelphia fluctuates around 56°F (14°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Philadelphia. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Tallahassee this time of the year. In the autumn, Tallahassee often gets more sunshine than Philadelphia. Tallahassee gets 256 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Philadelphia receives 202 hours of full sun.

Tallahassee usually gets more rain in October than Philadelphia. Tallahassee gets 2.9 inches (74 mm) of rain, while Philadelphia receives 1.9 inches (48 mm) of rain this time of the year. Keep in mind that June to November is the hurricane season in Tallahassee.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Tallahassee 69°F (20°C) 
    Philadelphia 56°F (14°C)

Should I visit Tallahassee or Philadelphia in the Winter?

Both Philadelphia and Tallahassee are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Tallahassee this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Philadelphia for the museums, the Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Philadelphia. In the winter, Tallahassee is much warmer than Philadelphia. Typically, the winter temperatures in Tallahassee in January average around 51°F (11°C), and Philadelphia averages at about 30°F (-1°C).

Tallahassee usually receives more sunshine than Philadelphia during winter. Tallahassee gets 185 hours of sunny skies, while Philadelphia receives 152 hours of full sun in the winter.

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


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Tallahassee 51°F (11°C) 
    Philadelphia 30°F (-1°C)

Should I visit Tallahassee or Philadelphia in the Spring?

Both Philadelphia and Tallahassee during the spring are popular places to visit. Furthermore, many visitors come to Philadelphia in the spring for the activities around the city and the natural beauty.

In April, Tallahassee is generally much warmer than Philadelphia. Daily temperatures in Tallahassee average around 67°F (19°C), and Philadelphia fluctuates around 52°F (11°C).

In Philadelphia, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Tallahassee. In the spring, Tallahassee often gets more sunshine than Philadelphia. Tallahassee gets 295 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Philadelphia receives 216 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Tallahassee. Tallahassee usually gets more rain in April than Philadelphia. Tallahassee gets 4.1 inches (103 mm) of rain, while Philadelphia receives 2.8 inches (70 mm) of rain this time of the year. Also, June to November in Tallahassee is the hurricane season.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Tallahassee 67°F (19°C) 
    Philadelphia 52°F (11°C)

Typical Weather for Philadelphia and Tallahassee

Tallahassee Philadelphia
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 51°F (11°C) 3.7 inches (95 mm) 30°F (-1°C) 2.3 inches (58 mm)
Feb 54°F (12°C) 4.8 inches (121 mm) 33°F (1°C) 2.1 inches (54 mm)
Mar 60°F (16°C) 5.9 inches (151 mm) 42°F (6°C) 2.7 inches (68 mm)
Apr 67°F (19°C) 4.1 inches (103 mm) 52°F (11°C) 2.8 inches (70 mm)
May 74°F (23°C) 4.1 inches (103 mm) 63°F (17°C) 2.8 inches (70 mm)
Jun 80°F (27°C) 6.6 inches (168 mm) 72°F (22°C) 3 inches (76 mm)
Jul 82°F (28°C) 8.9 inches (227 mm) 77°F (25°C) 3.9 inches (100 mm)
Aug 82°F (28°C) 6.9 inches (175 mm) 76°F (24°C) 3 inches (75 mm)
Sep 78°F (26°C) 6.7 inches (169 mm) 68°F (20°C) 2.8 inches (71 mm)
Oct 69°F (20°C) 2.9 inches (74 mm) 56°F (14°C) 1.9 inches (48 mm)
Nov 60°F (16°C) 2.8 inches (71 mm) 46°F (8°C) 2.5 inches (64 mm)
Dec 54°F (12°C) 4.2 inches (107 mm) 36°F (2°C) 2.7 inches (69 mm)