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

Should you visit Tampa or Wilmington?

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

Should I visit Tampa or Wilmington? 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 low-key, laid-back, and easy-going city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. Other reasons to visit include food and beaches.

Wilmington

Wilmington is a welcoming, charming, and historic city. It's also popular because of the beaches, shopping, and museums.

Tampa and Wilmington: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Tampa or Wilmington?

Both Wilmington and Tampa have plenty of things to do for visitors. Both offer a variety of sights, activities, and attractions for tourists. Tampa is better known for its scuba diving & snorkeling and big city activities, while Wilmington is more popular for its museums, nightlife, historical sights, and shopping. Wilmington is more touristy than Tampa and is known for its laid back beaches, historical waterfront area, and university setting. Tampa is well known for its amusement parks, wildlife parks, and popularity as a cruise ship port.

How is Tampa different from Wilmington?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Wilmington 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 Wilmington. There are art, history, and science museums around town. The Battleship North Carolina is a popular destination. Science enthusiasts will enjoy a visit to the Cape Fear Museum of History and Science or the North Carolina Aquarium at Fort Fisher. For art, head to the Cameron Art Museum or Art in Bloom Gallery.

Tampa does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Picking the best cuisine and restaurants between Tampa and Wilmington can be difficult as they are each notable 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.

Wilmington offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. Head to the waterfront for local seafood restaurants that offer outdoor seating and fresh caught fish. There are also farm-to-table restaurants and local diners with casual food.

Is Tampa or Wilmington Better for Nightlife?

Wilmington is a popular place for its evening party scene. However, Tampa is lacking in options for nightlife.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Wilmington. Live music is popular around town. There are also bars, lounges and dance clubs. When the weather is warm, many places make use of the outdoor setting, which makes for a relaxed and fun 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 Wilmington Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Tampa is adequate for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Wilmington is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

There are few places where you can 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.

Wilmington is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Tampa or Wilmington Better for Beaches?

For a relaxing beach holiday, both Tampa and Wilmington are very good choices.

Tampa is considered a top beach destination. Popular beaches near Tampa include Ben T. Davis Beach, Fred Howard Park, and Indian Rocks Beach.

Wilmington is a very popular place to visit for its beaches. Nearby you'll find Wrightsville Beach, Kure Beach, and Carolina Beach. They have long stretches of sand and great waves. The water is usually warm enough for swimming between the months of April and October. During these peak months parking can be challenging, but during the quieter times, you shouldn't have trouble.

Is Tampa or Wilmington Better for its Old Town?

Wilmington is a popular place for its historic old town charm. However, Tampa does not have a historic old town.

Wilmington has an old town worth visiting. The Historic District is along the waterfront and has 18th and 19th century architecture. There are also great restaurants and interesting shops.

Tampa does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Tampa or Wilmington?

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

Wilmington has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. Head downtown for the most interesting local shops. You'll find boutiques and souvenir shops where you can pick up art, accessories, or antiques.

Tampa is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Tampa or Wilmington Better for Families?

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Tampa or Wilmington.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Tampa. 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.

Wilmington is a very family-friendly place to visit. Near town you'll find several beaches - Wrightsville Beach, Kure Beach, and Carolina Beach. They're all family-friendly and perfect for a day's activity. The city also has the North Carolina Aquarium at Fort Fisher, the Children's Museum of Wilmington, and the Wilmington Railroad Museum. For a rainy day there are also indoor play areas and entertainment centers.

Is Tampa or Wilmington Better for Couples?

Wilmington is an excellent place to visit for couples. However, Tampa is lacking in options for romance.

Wilmington makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. The beaches are great for a relaxing day of swimming and sunbathing. In the evening head into town and enjoy one of the local seafood restaurants on the waterfront. You'll also find great shopping and historical sights in the area.

Tampa is not the best destination for a couple to visit. 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.

Is Tampa or Wilmington Better for Students?

Wilmington is a popular place for its student-friendly activities. However, Tampa is not popular with students.

Plenty of students visit Wilmington. The University of North Carolina at Wilmington is a popular school that brings many students to town.

Tampa is not popular with students.

Is Tampa or Wilmington Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Wilmington 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 Wilmington. There are public buses around town, but for practical reasons, you'll want to have your own vehicle.

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 Wilmington a more walkable city?

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

Wilmington is a somewhat walkable city. The Historic District is best explored on foot. You can also get around Wrightsville Beach on foot, but traveling between these places requires a car.

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 Wilmington Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Wilmington or Tampa?

How long in Tampa or Wilmington?

In either Tampa or Wilmington, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Wilmington than Tampa because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Tampa, and 2-5 days is enough time in Wilmington.

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

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

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

One day in Tampa or Wilmington?

With food around the laid-back city of Tampa, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

In Wilmington, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this historic destination offers. It's also a great beach destination, too. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

A weekend in Tampa or Wilmington?

With food around the destination of Tampa, there's plenty to do. It's also a great beach destination, too. It offers something for everyone. Many people spend a weekend here. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this city.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Wilmington. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. 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 Wilmington?

Tampa, a popular city, is full of activities for travelers. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Wilmington is a fun place to experience. In Wilmington, many people enjoy the nightlife and food that this destination offers. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. This would be the perfect place to spend five days, as it has just the right amount of activities.

A week in Tampa or Wilmington?

Tampa is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

You'll find food and shopping around the welcoming destination of Wilmington. Most people come for the beaches. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 2-Week Tours from Los Angeles, The Best Family-Friendly Tours to United States of America, The Best Wildlife Tours to United States of America, and The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in United States of America.

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

Which is Bigger, Tampa or Wilmington?

Tampa has a larger population, and is about 4 times larger than the population of Wilmington. When comparing the sizes of Tampa and Wilmington, 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 Wilmington?

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 Wilmington in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Tampa and Wilmington. Many travelers come to Tampa for the beaches, snorkeling, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, many visitors come to Wilmington in the summer for the beaches and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Tampa is around the same temperature as Wilmington. Typically, the summer temperatures in Tampa in July average around 82°F (28°C), and Wilmington averages at about 81°F (27°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Wilmington this time of the year. In Tampa, it's very sunny this time of the year. Tampa usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Wilmington during summer. Tampa gets 265 hours of sunny skies, while Wilmington receives 283 hours of full sun in the summer.

Wilmington receives a lot of rain in the summer. Tampa gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In July, Tampa usually receives around the same amount of rain as Wilmington. Tampa gets 8.4 inches (214 mm) of rain, while Wilmington receives 8.1 inches (207 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Tampa or Wilmington in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Tampa as well as Wilmington. Many visitors come to Tampa in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions. Additionally, most visitors come to Wilmington for the shopping scene during these months.

In October, Tampa is generally a little warmer than Wilmington. Daily temperatures in Tampa average around 75°F (24°C), and Wilmington fluctuates around 65°F (18°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Wilmington. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Tampa this time of the year. In the autumn, Tampa often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Wilmington. Tampa gets 234 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Wilmington receives 227 hours of full sun.

Tampa usually gets around the same amount of rain in October as Wilmington. Tampa gets 2.6 inches (65 mm) of rain, while Wilmington receives 2.7 inches (68 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Tampa or Wilmington in the Winter?

Both Wilmington and Tampa are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Tampa for the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Wilmington because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Tampa is much warmer than Wilmington in the winter. The daily temperature in Tampa averages around 60°F (15°C) in January, and Wilmington fluctuates around 45°F (7°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Tampa. Tampa usually receives more sunshine than Wilmington during winter. Tampa gets 200 hours of sunny skies, while Wilmington receives 180 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Tampa usually receives less rain than Wilmington. Tampa gets 2.3 inches (59 mm) of rain, while Wilmington receives 3.9 inches (98 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Tampa or Wilmington in the Spring?

Both Wilmington and Tampa during the spring are popular places to visit. The spring months attract visitors to Tampa because of the beaches and the activities around the city. Also, the beaches are the main draw to Wilmington this time of year.

In the spring, Tampa is a little warmer than Wilmington. Typically, the spring temperatures in Tampa in April average around 71°F (22°C), and Wilmington averages at about 63°F (17°C).

In Wilmington, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Tampa. In the spring, Tampa often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Wilmington. Tampa gets 299 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Wilmington receives 278 hours of full sun.

Tampa usually gets less rain in April than Wilmington. Tampa gets 2.1 inches (53 mm) of rain, while Wilmington receives 2.9 inches (73 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Wilmington and Tampa