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

Should you visit Tampa or Detroit?

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

Should I visit Tampa 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.

Tampa

Tampa is a laid-back, easy-going, and low-key city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. Visitors also love the food and beaches.

Detroit

Detroit is a overlooked , under-rated, and hardworking city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. It's also popular because of the food, shopping, and museums.

Tampa and Detroit: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Good scuba and snorkeling destination
  • Popular beach
  • Family-friendly
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less popular with couples
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with couples


Is there more to do in Tampa or Detroit?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Detroit than Tampa, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Detroit is more popular for its museums, nightlife, music, and shopping, while Tampa is known for its scuba diving & snorkeling and beaches. Tampa is popular for its amusement parks, wildlife parks, and popularity as a cruise ship port. Detroit is popular for its Motown music, blue collar atmosphere, and influential auto industry. It is also home to the Henry Ford Experience.

How is Tampa different from Detroit?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Tampa or Detroit?

Tampa
Detroit

Detroit is a popular place for its museums and history. However, Tampa does not have museums and landmarks.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Detroit. Popular museums around town include the Detroit Institute of Arts, the Detroit Historical Museum, and the Michigan Science Center.

Tampa does not have museums and landmarks.


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

Tampa
Detroit

Picking the best cuisine and restaurants between Tampa and Detroit can be difficult as they are each good in their own way.

Tampa is becoming an appealing option for foodies. There are a surprising number of great local restaurants around town as well as a good food truck scene. Some favorite dishes include fresh caught seafood, Grouper sandwiches, and Cuban sandwiches.

Detroit offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. 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 Tampa or Detroit Better for Nightlife?

Tampa
Detroit

Detroit is an excellent place to visit for its evening party scene. However, Tampa is lacking in options for nightlife.

Detroit has a lively atmosphere and nightlife is popular here. 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.

Tampa is generally a quiet destination but there are options around. The city has some good nightclubs, sports bars, and other spots where locals enjoy spending the evening.

Is Tampa or Detroit Better for Music?

Tampa
Detroit

Detroit is an amazing city to visit for its music scene. However, Tampa is not a live music destination.

Detroit has become a mecca for musicians from around the world. 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.

Tampa is not a live music destination.


Is Tampa or Detroit Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Tampa
Detroit

Tampa is a decent place to visit for its diving and snorkeling. However, Detroit is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

It's possible to go snorkeling in Tampa. While the water isn't always the clearest, there are some nice snorkeling and diving spots in the area. Options include Shell Key and Egmont Key, Crystal River, and Fort De Soto.

Detroit is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Tampa or Detroit Better for Beaches?

Tampa
Detroit

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

You'll have a great beach vacation in Tampa. Popular beaches near Tampa include Ben T. Davis Beach, Fred Howard Park, and Indian Rocks Beach.

Detroit is not a beach destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Tampa or Detroit?

Tampa
Detroit

Detroit is a popular place for its shopping areas. However, Tampa is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Detroit has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. There are several shopping streets like Woodward Avenue. There are also outlet malls, shopping centers, and Eastern Market.

Tampa is not a noteworthy shopping destination.


Is Tampa or Detroit Better for Families?

Tampa
Detroit

Tampa 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, Tampa is very family-friendly. The city has a number of kid-oriented attractions including Busch Gardens Amusement Park, several kid-friendly museums, and a number of animal centers, aquariums, and wildlife rescue facilities.

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 Tampa or Detroit Better for Couples?

Tampa
Detroit

Neither Tampa or Detroit is generally regarded as a top spot for a couple to visit.

Tampa is not always the best place to visit for a couple. The area does have great restaurants and some fun places to explore, but the downtown area has room for improvement and much of the city is suburban.

Detroit is not the best destination for a couple to visit. 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 Tampa or Detroit Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Tampa
Detroit

Detroit is a decent place to visit for times when you don't have a car. However, Tampa is lacking in options for its public transit.

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

Public transit is limited or non-existant in Tampa. There is the street car that runs from downtown Tampa to Ybor City and stops at 11 stations.


Is Tampa or Detroit a more walkable city?

Tampa
Detroit

Detroit is a popular place for its ease of walking around. However, Tampa is lacking in options for its walkability.

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

Tampa is generally not very walkable. While there are some neighborhoods that are considered walkable, you really need a car if you hope to explore Tampa in depth.

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

Should I spend more time in Detroit or Tampa?

How long in Tampa or Detroit?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Tampa and Detroit. In our opinion, Detroit has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Detroit than Tampa. In general, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Tampa, and 1-3 days is enough time in Detroit.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Detroit than Tampa 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 Detroit.


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

One day in Tampa or Detroit?

In Tampa, you'll find food. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. This city 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 live music and food that this overlooked destination offers. Lots of people come for the live music. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Because of this, one day is usually enough time for a trip here.

A weekend in Tampa or Detroit?

In Tampa, you'll find food. 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 Tampa has to offer.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Detroit. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. This would be the perfect place to spend a weekend, as it has just the right amount of activities. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.


Five days in Tampa or Detroit?

Tampa 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.

Detroit is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the destination of Detroit. Lots of people come for the live music. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

A week in Tampa or Detroit?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Tampa. Many people enjoy the food when visiting Tampa. 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.

You'll find museums and nightlife around the under-rated destination of Detroit. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Lots of people come for the live music. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.


Which place is cheaper, Detroit or Tampa?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Tampa is $179, 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 Tampa and Detroit in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Tampa $85
    Detroit $64
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Tampa $170
    Detroit $128
Compare Hotels in Tampa and Detroit

Looking for a hotel in Tampa 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 Tampa


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: Tampa Hotel Prices and Detroit Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Tampa $69
    Detroit $37

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Tampa

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

  • Private Transfer to/from Tampa Airport (TPA): $70
  • Tampa hotels to Tampa Bay Cruise Port-Departure Private Transfer : $51
  • Tampa hotel or address to Tampa Airport (TPA) - Departure Private Transfer: $54
  • Tampa Bay Cruise Port: Private Transfer to Tampa hotels: $307
  • Tampa Bay Cruise Port to Tampa hotels - Arrival Private Transfer : $51
  • Tampa Bay Cruise Port to Tampa hotels - Arrival Private Transfer: $51
  • Tampa Bay Cruise Port to Tampa Hotels - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $102
  • Tampa Bay Cruise Port to Tampa Airport (TPA) - Departure Transfer: $51
  • Tampa Bay Cruise Port to Tampa Airport (TPA) - Departure Private Transfer: $51
  • Tampa Airport to Tampa Bay Cruise Port Private Arrival Transfer: $51
  • Tampa Airport (TPA): Transfer tо Tampa Bay Cruise Port: $307
  • Tampa Airport (TPA): Private Transfer to Tampa hotel/address: $207

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Detroit

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

  • Private Transfer from Detroit City to Detroit (DTW) Airport: $144
  • Private Transfer from Detroit (DTW) Airport to Detroit City: $144
  • Private Departure Transfer to Detroit Airport DTW: $61
  • Private Departure Transfer - to Detroit Airport (DTW) by SUV: $90
  • Private Arrival Transfer - from Detroit Airport (DTW) by SUV: $90
  • Detroit City to Detroit Airport (DTW) - Departure Private Transfer: $95
  • Detroit Airport (DTW) to Detroit City - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $191
  • Detroit Airport (DTW) to Detroit City - Arrival Private Transfer: $95
  • Detroit - Wayne County Airport One Way Transfer : $80
  • Departure Private Transfer: Detroit to Detroit Airport DTW in Luxury SUV: $132
  • Departure Private Transfer: Detroit to Detroit Airport DTW in Business Car: $101

Is it cheaper to fly into Tampa or Detroit?

Prices for flights to both Detroit and Tampa 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
    Tampa $53
    Detroit $44

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Tampa

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

  • Cooking Class near Disney in Tampa Florida: $88
  • Ybor City Food Tour On Sundays: $89

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.
    Tampa $20
    Detroit $21

Tours and Activities in Tampa

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

  • Tampa Terrors Ghost Tour By US Ghost Adventures: $30
  • 1.5-hour Dolphin Sightseeing Cruise from Tampa: $31
  • 2 Hour Guided Segway Tour: $69
  • 2 Hour Private Floating Tiki Boat Tour in Tampa: $59
  • Adventure Island Water Park Ticket: $41
  • Busch Gardens Tampa Bay Admission Ticket: $108
  • Christmas Lights Wonderland Deluxe Golf Cart Guided Tour in Tampa: $49
  • Discover Tampa with Local Stories from a Virtual Tour: $30
  • Downtown Tampa Historic Walking Tour: $30
  • Experience the season with a scavenger hunt in Tampa with Holly Jolly Hunt: $20
  • Ghost Hunters Paranormal Ghost Tour: $39
  • Ghost Investigation Tour Interactive Paranormal Experience 18Plus: $35

Tours and Activities in Detroit

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

  • Ann Arbor Scavenger Hunt: Ann Arbor Adventure: $12
  • Detroit Pistons Basketball Game Ticket at Little Caesars Arena: $19
  • Detroit Red Wings Ice Hockey Game Ticket at Little Caesars Arena: $61
  • Detroit Tigers Baseball Game Ticket at Comerica Park: $12
  • Architectural Beauty and Hidden Gems Walking Tour: $115
  • Detroit Pistons Basketball Game Ticket: $19
  • Ghosts and Spirits Haunted Walking Tour: $26
  • Scavenger Hunt Adventure Self-Guided City Game: $10
  • Spirit and History Self Guided Audio Tour: $6.50
  • Experience the season with a scavenger hunt in Ann Arbor with Holly Jolly Hunt: $20
  • LEGOLAND® Discovery Center Michigan Admission Ticket: $26
  • Motor City Ghosts Tour: $33

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Tampa $26
    Detroit $20

Sample the Local Flavors in Tampa

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

  • Tampa Bar Hunt: Tampa Takeover Bar Crawl: $12
  • Tampa Bar Crawl on a 2023 Street Legal Golf Cart: $40
  • Haunted Pub Crawl: $40
  • Ybor City Private Brewery Tour by Custom Golf Cart: $200
  • Tampa Heights Private Brewery Tour by Custom Golf Cart: $200


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Tampa and Detroit, we can see that Tampa 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 Tampa would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Tampa 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 Tampa Expensive? and Is Detroit Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Tampa or Detroit?

Detroit has a larger population, and is about 3 times larger than the population of Tampa. When comparing the sizes of Tampa 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 Tampa or Detroit?

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 Tampa or Detroit in the Summer?

Both Detroit and Tampa are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Tampa for the beaches, snorkeling, the city activities, 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 July, Tampa is generally a little warmer than Detroit. Daily temperatures in Tampa average around 82°F (28°C), and Detroit fluctuates around 74°F (24°C).

It's quite sunny in Detroit. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Tampa. Tampa usually receives less sunshine than Detroit during summer. Tampa gets 265 hours of sunny skies, while Detroit receives 319 hours of full sun in the summer.

It's quite rainy in Tampa. In July, Tampa usually receives more rain than Detroit. Tampa gets 8.4 inches (214 mm) of rain, while Detroit receives 3.4 inches (85 mm) of rain each month for the summer.


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

Should I visit Tampa or Detroit in the Autumn?

Both Detroit and Tampa during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Tampa in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions. Furthermore, most visitors come to Detroit for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the music scene during these months.

Tampa is much warmer than Detroit in the autumn. The daily temperature in Tampa averages around 75°F (24°C) in October, and Detroit fluctuates around 54°F (12°C).

It's quite sunny in Tampa. In the autumn, Tampa often gets more sunshine than Detroit. Tampa gets 234 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Detroit receives 172 hours of full sun.

Tampa usually gets more rain in October than Detroit. Tampa gets 2.6 inches (65 mm) of rain, while Detroit receives 2.3 inches (58 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Tampa 75°F (24°C) 
    Detroit 54°F (12°C)

Should I visit Tampa or Detroit in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Tampa and Detroit. Most visitors come to Tampa for 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. In the winter, Tampa is much warmer than Detroit. Typically, the winter temperatures in Tampa in January average around 60°F (15°C), and Detroit averages at about 25°F (-4°C).

In Tampa, it's very sunny this time of the year. Tampa usually receives more sunshine than Detroit during winter. Tampa gets 200 hours of sunny skies, while Detroit receives 120 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Tampa usually receives more rain than Detroit. Tampa gets 2.3 inches (59 mm) of rain, while Detroit receives 2 inches (50 mm) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Tampa 60°F (15°C) 
    Detroit 25°F (-4°C)

Should I visit Tampa or Detroit in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Tampa as well as Detroit. The spring months attract visitors to Tampa because of the beaches and the activities around the city. Additionally, the activities around the city are the main draw to Detroit this time of year.

In April, Tampa is generally much warmer than Detroit. Daily temperatures in Tampa average around 71°F (22°C), and Detroit fluctuates around 49°F (9°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Detroit. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Tampa this time of the year. In the spring, Tampa often gets more sunshine than Detroit. Tampa gets 299 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Detroit receives 223 hours of full sun.

Tampa usually gets less rain in April than Detroit. Tampa gets 2.1 inches (53 mm) of rain, while Detroit receives 3.2 inches (80 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Tampa 71°F (22°C) 
    Detroit 49°F (9°C)

Typical Weather for Detroit and Tampa

Tampa Detroit
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 60°F (15°C) 2.3 inches (59 mm) 25°F (-4°C) 2 inches (50 mm)
Feb 61°F (16°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm) 27°F (-3°C) 2.1 inches (54 mm)
Mar 67°F (19°C) 3.9 inches (99 mm) 37°F (3°C) 2.8 inches (72 mm)
Apr 71°F (22°C) 2.1 inches (53 mm) 49°F (9°C) 3.2 inches (80 mm)
May 77°F (25°C) 2.4 inches (61 mm) 60°F (16°C) 3 inches (76 mm)
Jun 81°F (27°C) 6.5 inches (165 mm) 70°F (21°C) 3.8 inches (97 mm)
Jul 82°F (28°C) 8.4 inches (214 mm) 74°F (24°C) 3.4 inches (85 mm)
Aug 82°F (28°C) 8 inches (203 mm) 73°F (23°C) 3.4 inches (86 mm)
Sep 81°F (27°C) 6.3 inches (161 mm) 65°F (19°C) 3.4 inches (87 mm)
Oct 75°F (24°C) 2.6 inches (65 mm) 54°F (12°C) 2.3 inches (58 mm)
Nov 68°F (20°C) 1.8 inches (45 mm) 43°F (6°C) 3 inches (75 mm)
Dec 62°F (17°C) 2.2 inches (56 mm) 31°F (-1°C) 3.2 inches (82 mm)