A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Destin vs. Richmond for Families, Food, and Couples

Should you visit Destin or Richmond?

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

Which city is more affordable and which is best for your travel style? If you're trying to figure out where to go next, comparing the travel costs between Destin and Richmond can help you decide which place is right for you.

Destin

Destin is a peaceful, family-friendly, and beautiful beach town. Destin offers plenty of beauty for visitors. Other popular activities here include shopping, food, and beaches. See Destin travel costs.

Richmond

Richmond is a historical, growing, and friendly city. It's also known for nightlife, food, and shopping. See Richmond travel costs.

Destin and Richmond: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Destin or Richmond?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Richmond than Destin, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Richmond is better known for its museums and attractions and nightlife, while Destin is more popular for its resorts, beaches, and impressive beauty. Destin is more touristy than Richmond and is known for its powdery sand and turquoise water, its kid-friendly environment, and its local waterfront seafood restaurants. Richmond is well known for its cultural and historical sights. Also, Richmond is famous for the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts.

How is Destin different from Richmond?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Destin or Richmond?

Richmond is notable for its sights and museums. However, Destin does not have museums and landmarks.

Many visitors head to Richmond specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. The city has a long history which you can learn about at one of the many museums. There's the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts, the Virginia Museum of History and Culture, and the Black History Museum. There are also landmarks and historical homes.

Destin does not have museums and landmarks.

Is the Food Better in Destin or Richmond? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Local dishes at restaurants are fun to try in both Destin and Richmond.

Destin offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. The area has great seafood including crab chowder, seafood gumbo, and fried fish. You can find wonderful local restaurants that have waterfront views and menus that feature freshly caught seafood. Many restaurants also have kid-friendly menus. During peak season, reservations are recommended.

Richmond has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. The food scene has been growing around town, and there are food halls and local restaurants that serve diverse and interesting dishes. You'll find Indian, Asian, and European restaurants in addition to local classics.

Is Destin or Richmond Better for Nightlife?

Richmond is very good for nightlife. However, Destin is a mediocre beach town for nightlife and partying.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Richmond. You'll find diverse bars and clubs around town. Pubs are usually laid back with a relaxed atmosphere. You'll also find live music that includes bluegrass, country, and jazz.

Destin doesn't offer many options. The region is more popular as a family-friendly beach destination than it is for it's nightlife. Head to the Harbor area for the most lively nightlife.

Is Destin or Richmond Better for Resorts?

Destin is notable for its resorts. However, Richmond is not a resort destination.

Vacationers can choose from a number of terrific resorts in Destin. Popular options include the Sandestin Golf & Beach Resort, as well as Hilton Sandestin Beach, Golf Resort & Spa. Most of the accommodation in the area is in the form of condos that include a kitchen and separate bedrooms. Most of these complexes also have pools, hot tubs, and even kids clubs.

Richmond is not a resort destination.

Is Destin or Richmond Better for Beaches?

Destin is notable for the beach. However, Richmond is not a beach destination.

Destin is a very popular place to visit for its beaches. This area is famous for its powdery white sand, beautiful blue waters, and calm waves. The beaches are large enough that they never get incredibly crowded, but you will find the largest crowds during the summer months. These beaches are particularly popular with families and seniors.

Richmond is not a beach destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Destin or Richmond?

Both Destin and Richmond are notable shopping destinations.

Destin is a great destination for shopping. In the shopping centers around town you'll find a number of unique boutique shops that are fun to explore. They have boutique-style beach clothes, local art, and any beach supplies that you may have forgotten.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Richmond. You'll find shopping malls and shopping centers around town, but there are also eclectic shopping streets and boutique outlets.

Is Destin or Richmond More Beautiful?

Destin is very good for its scenery and beauty. However, Richmond is not a destination known for its beauty.

Destin offers plenty of beauty for visitors. With its powdery sand and the blue water of the Gulf of Mexico, this is a beautiful beach destination.

Richmond is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Destin or Richmond Better for Families?

Destin is notable for its family-friendly activities. Also, Richmond is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

Destin is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. The area has beautiful sandy beaches, calm waters, and plenty of activities for kids like Big Kahuna's Water Park. This is one of the more kid-friendly areas in Florida and many families return year after year with their kids. There are also many condos available for rent and kids can have their own room, kitchens are available for meal preparation, and there are washers and dryers to clean clothes. Many of these condo complexes also have kid-friendly pools

Richmond is a family-friendly beach town. The Children's Museum of Richmond offers hands-on exhibits that will keep young ones entertained. Another fun option is the Science Museum of Virginia. The city also has parks and outdoor places to explore as well as playgrounds and kid-friendly restaurants.

Is Destin or Richmond Better for Couples?

Both Destin and Richmond are notable destinations to visit as a couple.

Destin is a nice destination for couples. For a relaxing beach vacation, this is a nice option for couples. A lot of the accommodation is in the form of condos, so it may not have the romantic resort vibe you're going for though. There are many great seafood restaurants and quiet beaches that have beautiful sunsets.

Richmond makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Kayaking or tubing on the James River is a great activity for couples. There are also museums and many restaurants that are perfect for a date night.

Is Destin or Richmond Better for Students?

Richmond is very good for students. However, Destin is a mediocre beach town for its student-friendly activities.

Richmond is a good city to visit for students. There are a couple of colleges and universities in town such as Virginia Commonwealth University.

Destin is a decent spot for students. It is more a family-friendly destination than a spring break destination. If you're looking for a place to cut loose and blow off some steam, then there are better options in Florida.

Is Destin or Richmond Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Richmond is a moderate city for its public transit. However, Destin is a mediocre beach town for times when you don't have a car.

Public transit is generally limited in Richmond. There are buses around town, but the availability and reliability is limited.

Public transit is quite limited in Destin. There is almost no public transit so a car is essential. Some condo complexes do over golf carts to get around the grounds.

Is Destin or Richmond a more walkable city?

Richmond is very good for its walkability. However, Destin is a mediocre beach town for its high level of walkability.

Richmond is somewhat walkable. There are some walkable neighborhoods such as the Fan and Museum District, but most people prefer to get around by car.

Destin is not a very walkable beach town. The area is very spread out and not walkable so you'll need a car to access restaurants and most forms of entertainment.

For even more information, also check out Is Destin Worth Visiting? and Is Richmond Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Richmond or Destin?

How long in Destin or Richmond?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Destin or Richmond to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Destin than Richmond because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 5-7 days is a good amount of time for Destin, and 1-2 days is enough time in Richmond.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Richmond than Destin 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 Richmond.

One day in Destin or Richmond?

The beach town of Destin offers shopping and food. Most people come for the beaches. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Many travelers enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the destination of Richmond. One day is often enough time to do most activities.

A weekend in Destin or Richmond?

Destin is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Richmond is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Five days in Destin or Richmond?

Destin is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Destin, five days is sufficent for most. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Richmond. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A week in Destin or Richmond?

Destin is a great place to explore. It is common to spend one week here. It's also a great beach destination, too. One week is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Destin has to offer. This beach town offers something for everyone.

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the friendly destination of Richmond. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in United States of America, The Best Polar Tours & Cruises in United States of America, The Best Walking Tours in United States of America, and The Best Northern Lights Tours in Alaska.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Destin or Richmond?

Richmond has a larger population, and is about 20 times larger than the population of Destin. When comparing the sizes of Destin and Richmond, 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 Destin or Richmond?

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 Destin or Richmond in the Summer?

Both Richmond and Destin are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The summer months attract visitors to Destin because of the beaches and the family-friendly experiences. Also, the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Richmond this time of year.

In July, Destin is generally around the same temperature as Richmond. Daily temperatures in Destin average around 82°F (28°C), and Richmond fluctuates around 78°F (26°C).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Richmond. It's quite rainy in Destin. In July, Destin usually receives more rain than Richmond. Destin gets 7.4 inches (189 mm) of rain, while Richmond receives 5 inches (128 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Destin or Richmond in the Autumn?

Both Richmond and Destin during the autumn are popular places to visit. The shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Destin this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Richmond for the shopping scene.

Destin is a little warmer than Richmond in the autumn. The daily temperature in Destin averages around 69°F (21°C) in October, and Richmond fluctuates around 59°F (15°C).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Destin. Destin usually gets more rain in October than Richmond. Destin gets 4.2 inches (107 mm) of rain, while Richmond receives 3.5 inches (90 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Destin or Richmond in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Destin and Richmond. Many travelers come to Destin for the shopping scene and the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Richmond in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Richmond can get quite cold in the winter. In the winter, Destin is much warmer than Richmond. Typically, the winter temperatures in Destin in January average around 50°F (10°C), and Richmond averages at about 36°F (2°C).

Destin gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In January, Destin usually receives more rain than Richmond. Destin gets 4.6 inches (117 mm) of rain, while Richmond receives 3.2 inches (83 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Destin or Richmond in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Destin as well as Richmond. Many visitors come to Destin in the spring for the beaches and the natural beauty.

In April, Destin is generally a little warmer than Richmond. Daily temperatures in Destin average around 68°F (20°C), and Richmond fluctuates around 58°F (14°C).

Destin usually gets more rain in April than Richmond. Destin gets 3.4 inches (87 mm) of rain, while Richmond receives 3 inches (75 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Richmond and Destin