A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Cumberland Island National Seashore vs. Philadelphia for Families, Couples, and Backpackers

Should you visit Cumberland Island National Seashore or Philadelphia?

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

Should I visit Cumberland Island National Seashore or Philadelphia? 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.

Cumberland Island National Seashore

Cumberland Island National Seashore is a secluded, undeveloped, and untouched island. The beauty of Cumberland Island National Seashore is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Visitors also love the beaches and hiking. See Cumberland Island National Seashore travel costs.

Philadelphia

Philadelphia is a diverse, historic, and cultural city. It's a large city with plenty of activites for visitors as well. Philadelphia is a gorgeous place to visit. Other reasons to visit include shopping, museums, and theater. See Philadelphia travel costs.

Cumberland Island National Seashore and Philadelphia: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Cumberland Island National Seashore or Philadelphia?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Philadelphia. Although Cumberland Island National Seashore and Philadelphia are popular destinations, Philadelphia has more sights and attractions for tourists. Philadelphia is very popular for its museums and attractions, theatre productions, food, nightlife, music, historical sights, shopping, christmas markets, and big city activities, while Cumberland Island National Seashore attracts visitors for its beaches, hiking, and impressive beauty. Cumberland Island National Seashore is famous for its pristine and undeveloped beaches, miles of hiking trails, and wild horses. Philadelphia is famous for its diverse population, large number of universities, great restaurant and market scene, and its role in American history. It is also well known for The Liberty Bell.

How is Cumberland Island National Seashore different from Philadelphia?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Philadelphia and Cumberland Island National Seashore. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Cumberland Island National Seashore or Philadelphia?

Philadelphia is an amazing city to visit for its historical sights. However, Cumberland Island National Seashore is not known for its sights and museums.

Travelers visit Philadelphia from around the world to see its many world-famous attractions. 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.

Cumberland Island National Seashore offers a few options for museum-goers. There aren't any museums on the island, but on the mainland there's a visitor center as well as the Cumberland Island National Seashore Museum.

Is Cumberland Island National Seashore or Philadelphia Better for Theater?

Philadelphia is a great city for theatre. However, Cumberland Island National Seashore is not a theatre destination.

While in town, many visitors enjoy seeing a show in Philadelphia. 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.

Cumberland Island National Seashore is not a theatre destination.

Is the Food Better in Cumberland Island National Seashore or Philadelphia? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Philadelphia is a great city for its local flavors and cuisine. However, Cumberland Island National Seashore is not known for its local cuisine and restaurants.

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in Philadelphia. 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.

Most people don't head to Cumberland Island National Seashore for a culinary experience, but it does have restaurants to choose from. There are no restaurants on the island, so you need to pack any food that you might need before you arrive.

Is Cumberland Island National Seashore or Philadelphia Better for Nightlife?

Philadelphia is a great city for nightlife. However, Cumberland Island National Seashore is not known for nightlife and partying.

The nightlife in Philadelphia has something for everybody. 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.

People don't go to Cumberland Island National Seashore for the nightlife. Stargazing is amazing on the island, but you're left to your own devices when it comes to evening entertainment options.

Is Cumberland Island National Seashore or Philadelphia Better for Music?

Philadelphia is a great city for live music. However, Cumberland Island National Seashore is not a live music destination.

Philadelphia has a thriving music scene. The city's diverse music scene includes jazz, rock, and hip hop.

Cumberland Island National Seashore is not a live music destination.

Is Cumberland Island National Seashore or Philadelphia Better for Beaches?

Cumberland Island National Seashore is a must-visit destination for the beach. However, Philadelphia is not a beach destination.

The beaches in Cumberland Island National Seashore are among the best in the world. There are 17 miles of pristine beaches along the island. You'll also find wild horses and miles of hiking trails. Swimming is popular, but do take note that there are no lifeguards on the island.

Philadelphia is not a beach destination.

Is Cumberland Island National Seashore or Philadelphia Better for its Old Town?

Philadelphia is a popular place for its historic old town. However, Cumberland Island National Seashore does not have a historic old town.

Philadelphia is a good destination for visiting its old town. The Old City has a number of Colonial-era sites including Independence Hall, the Liberty Bell, the Betsy Ross House.

Cumberland Island National Seashore does not have a historic old town.

Is Cumberland Island National Seashore or Philadelphia Better for Hiking?

Cumberland Island National Seashore is a must-visit destination for its hiking trails. However, Philadelphia is not a hiking destination.

Known for its hiking, Cumberland Island National Seashore draws a crowd to experience the nature and the trails. You'll find more than 50 miles of hiking trails on the island. They pass through a number of ecosystems such as wetlands, forests, and beaches. Most visitors come for the day and spend most of their time on the Southend of the island. This is where you'll find the highest concentration of hiking trails. Some of the most popular trails are Dungeness Roadways, River Trail, and Nightingale Trail.

Philadelphia is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Cumberland Island National Seashore or Philadelphia?

Philadelphia is a great city for shopping. However, Cumberland Island National Seashore is not known for its shopping opportunities.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting 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.

Cumberland Island National Seashore has some shopping areas for those that seek them out. There aren't any shops or stores on the island so plan accordingly.

Is Cumberland Island National Seashore or Philadelphia More Beautiful?

Cumberland Island National Seashore is an excellent place to visit for its scenery and beauty. Also, Philadelphia is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its scenery and beauty.

The beauty of Cumberland Island National Seashore is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. The barrier island has 17 miles of pristine beaches. It offers a truly beautiful setting that feels undiscovered and untouched.

Philadelphia offers plenty of beauty for visitors. With its diverse neighborhoods and rich history, this city offers its own type of beauty.

Is Cumberland Island National Seashore or Philadelphia Better for Families?

Philadelphia is a great city for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Cumberland Island National Seashore is not as popular, but is still a nice island for its family-friendly activities.

Philadelphia is a very family-friendly destination. 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.

Cumberland Island National Seashore is a family-friendly place to visit. In addition to the hiking trails, coastline, and wildlife, the island also has junior ranger programs and educational experiences for kids.

Is Cumberland Island National Seashore or Philadelphia Better for Couples?

Cumberland Island National Seashore is an excellent place to visit for its romantic activities. Also, Philadelphia is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for couples.

Cumberland Island National Seashore makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Couples will appreciate the pristine coastline, beautiful wildlife, and secluded hiking trails. Many people visit the island as a day trip, but it's also possible to stay at one of the island's campgrounds. For a truly romantic experience you could also stay at the Greyfield Inn.

Philadelphia is a good island 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.

Is Cumberland Island National Seashore or Philadelphia Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Cumberland Island National Seashore is an excellent place to visit for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Philadelphia is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for backpackers.

Many backpackers visit Cumberland Island National Seashore. Backpackers appreciate the secluded and pristine atmosphere. There are miles of hiking trails as well as campgrounds on the island for those who want to stay overnight.

Philadelphia is a good island to visit for backpackers. There are a few good hostels for backpackers and budget travelers to choose from.

Is Cumberland Island National Seashore or Philadelphia Better for Students?

Philadelphia is a great city for its student-friendly activities. However, Cumberland Island National Seashore is not popular with students.

Philadelphia is a very popular city for students and younger travelers. With its many universities and diverse population, this city is a great place for international students.

Cumberland Island National Seashore is not popular with students.

Is Cumberland Island National Seashore or Philadelphia Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Philadelphia is a great city for times when you don't have a car. However, Cumberland Island National Seashore is not known for its public transit.

Many visitors rely on the effecient and affordable public transportation in Philadelphia. The system includes a subway, trolleys, buses, and a commuter rail.

Public transit is generally limited in Cumberland Island National Seashore. The only way to the island is by ferry. It leaves from the town of St. Marys and advanced reservations are recommended.

Is Cumberland Island National Seashore or Philadelphia a more walkable city?

Philadelphia is an amazing city to visit for its walkability. Also, Cumberland Island National Seashore is not as popular, but is still a nice island for its high level of 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.

Cumberland Island National Seashore is a somewhat walkable place. There are many hikes on the island, but the whole island is 18 miles long, making it difficult to walk in one day. Many visitors spend their time near the campgrounds where there's the highest concentration of hiking trails. This area is known as Sea Camp.

For even more information, also check out Is Cumberland Island National Seashore Worth Visiting? and Is Philadelphia Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Philadelphia or Cumberland Island National Seashore?

How long in Cumberland Island National Seashore or Philadelphia?

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

Families should spend more time in Philadelphia than Cumberland Island National Seashore. 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 Cumberland Island National Seashore. 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 Cumberland Island National Seashore 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.

One day in Cumberland Island National Seashore or Philadelphia?

In Cumberland Island National Seashore, many people enjoy the that this pristine island offers. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. In one day, you should have a good grasp of this island.

Because Philadelphia is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. One reason most visitors come is for the museums. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

A weekend in Cumberland Island National Seashore or Philadelphia?

Cumberland Island National Seashore is a fun place to experience. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. 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.

Many people visit Philadelphia for a weekend. Plenty of people spend a weekend in the area when traveling. A weekend is usually enough time to experience most activities. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Five days in Cumberland Island National Seashore or Philadelphia?

You'll find around the secluded destination of Cumberland Island National Seashore. Hikers are also drawn to this area. 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.

Philadelphia is a popular place to visit. The historic city of Philadelphia offers food and shopping. One reason most visitors come is for the museums. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

A week in Cumberland Island National Seashore or Philadelphia?

Cumberland Island National Seashore is a popular place to visit. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. 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. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. One reason most visitors come is for the museums. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Las Vegas, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Anchorage, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Los Angeles, and The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from New York City.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Cumberland Island National Seashore and Philadelphia, we can see that Philadelphia is more expensive. And not only is Cumberland Island National Seashore much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Cumberland Island National Seashore would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Cumberland Island National Seashore 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 Cumberland Island National Seashore.

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

When is the best time to visit Cumberland Island National Seashore 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 Cumberland Island National Seashore or Philadelphia in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Cumberland Island National Seashore and Philadelphia. Many travelers come to Cumberland Island National Seashore for the beaches, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, many visitors come to Philadelphia in the summer for the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Cumberland Island National Seashore is a little warmer than Philadelphia. Typically, the summer temperatures in Cumberland Island National Seashore in July average around 82°F (28°C), and Philadelphia averages at about 77°F (25°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Philadelphia this time of the year. In Cumberland Island National Seashore, it's very sunny this time of the year. Cumberland Island National Seashore usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Philadelphia during summer. Cumberland Island National Seashore gets 286 hours of sunny skies, while Philadelphia receives 273 hours of full sun in the summer.

Philadelphia receives a lot of rain in the summer. Cumberland Island National Seashore gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In July, Cumberland Island National Seashore usually receives more rain than Philadelphia. Cumberland Island National Seashore gets 5.4 inches (137 mm) of rain, while Philadelphia receives 3.9 inches (100 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Cumberland Island National Seashore or Philadelphia in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Cumberland Island National Seashore as well as Philadelphia. Many visitors come to Cumberland Island National Seashore in the autumn for the hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area. Additionally, most visitors come to Philadelphia for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

In October, Cumberland Island National Seashore is generally much warmer than Philadelphia. Daily temperatures in Cumberland Island National Seashore average around 70°F (21°C), 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 Cumberland Island National Seashore this time of the year. In the autumn, Cumberland Island National Seashore often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Philadelphia. Cumberland Island National Seashore gets 214 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Philadelphia receives 202 hours of full sun.

Cumberland Island National Seashore usually gets more rain in October than Philadelphia. Cumberland Island National Seashore gets 2.9 inches (73 mm) of rain, while Philadelphia receives 1.9 inches (48 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Cumberland Island National Seashore or Philadelphia in the Winter?

Both Philadelphia and Cumberland Island National Seashore are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Philadelphia because of the museums, the Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine.

The weather in Philadelphia can be very cold. Cumberland Island National Seashore is much warmer than Philadelphia in the winter. The daily temperature in Cumberland Island National Seashore averages around 53°F (12°C) in January, and Philadelphia fluctuates around 30°F (-1°C).

Cumberland Island National Seashore usually receives more sunshine than Philadelphia during winter. Cumberland Island National Seashore gets 191 hours of sunny skies, while Philadelphia receives 152 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Cumberland Island National Seashore usually receives more rain than Philadelphia. Cumberland Island National Seashore gets 3.3 inches (83 mm) of rain, while Philadelphia receives 2.3 inches (58 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Cumberland Island National Seashore or Philadelphia in the Spring?

Both Philadelphia and Cumberland Island National Seashore during the spring are popular places to visit. The spring months attract visitors to Cumberland Island National Seashore because of the beaches and the natural beauty. Also, the activities around the city and the natural beauty are the main draw to Philadelphia this time of year.

In the spring, Cumberland Island National Seashore is much warmer than Philadelphia. Typically, the spring temperatures in Cumberland Island National Seashore in April average around 68°F (20°C), and Philadelphia averages at about 52°F (11°C).

In Philadelphia, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Cumberland Island National Seashore. In the spring, Cumberland Island National Seashore often gets more sunshine than Philadelphia. Cumberland Island National Seashore gets 285 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Philadelphia receives 216 hours of full sun.

Cumberland Island National Seashore usually gets around the same amount of rain in April as Philadelphia. Cumberland Island National Seashore gets 2.8 inches (72 mm) of rain, while Philadelphia receives 2.8 inches (70 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Philadelphia and Cumberland Island National Seashore