A Travel Price Comparison for Florida Everglades National Park vs. Key West for Food, Families, Couples, and Backpackers

Should you visit Everglades National Park or Key West?

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 Everglades National Park and Key West can help you decide which place is right for you.

Everglades National Park

Everglades National Park is a pristine, adventure-filled, and unique national park. Everglades National Park is a beautiful place to visit, too. And you can't forget about the hiking. See Everglades National Park travel costs.

Key West

Key West is a lively, quaint, and laid-back town. With fun activities and sights, this is a small town worth visiting. With stunning beauty, Key West attracts visitors from all around. Since it has a quaint atmosphere, you'll want to spend time soaking it all in. It's also popular because of the beaches, nightlife, and food. See Key West travel costs.

Everglades National Park and Key West: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Everglades National Park or Key West?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Key West. Although Everglades National Park and Key West are both popular with visitors, Key West has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Key West is more popular for its food, nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, historical sights, shopping, small town charm, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere, while Everglades National Park is known for its museums and attractions and hiking. Key West is more touristy than Everglades National Park and is popular for its festive nightlife, quirky town center, colorful personality, adrenaline-filled watersports, stunning beaches, turquoise water, and location at the southernmost point of the continental U.S. It is also home to Duval Street. Everglades National Park is popular for its unique habitats and wildlife such as the friendly manatees.

How is Everglades National Park different from Key West?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Key West and Everglades National Park. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Everglades National Park or Key West?

Everglades National Park is a moderate national park for its sights and museums. However, Key West does not have museums and landmarks.

Everglades National Park offers a handful of options for museums and historical sights. It's worth checking out the Museum of the Everglades, but most visitors prefer to spend their time outdoors exploring the habitats.

Key West does not have museums and landmarks.

Is the Food Better in Everglades National Park or Key West? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Key West is a great town for its local flavors and cuisine. However, Everglades National Park is not known for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Key West has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. Head to town for local restaurants with quirky atmospheres. There are many local dishes to sample, but the town is most known for its stone crabs, conch fritters, and Mahi Mahi sandwiches. You'll also find cold drinks and waterfront dining areas.

Everglades National Park offers some easy restaurants to choose from. There are a few casual eateries near the park. The options include taquerias and grills. You'll also find some farm fresh fruit stands on the side of the road and it's definitely worth stopping to pick up a snack.

Is Everglades National Park or Key West Better for Nightlife?

Key West is a great town for its evening party scene. However, Everglades National Park is not known for nightlife.

The nightlife in Key West has something for everybody. This area has some of the most lively nightlife in the Florida Keys. There are quirky bars and fun hangouts where you can spend the evening. The party starts at Mallory Square around sunset and many bars stay open well into the early hours. You can also enjoy sunset cruises or pass your time at one of the many tiki bars.

People don't go to Everglades National Park for the nightlife. There are a couple of grills outside of the park, but the nightlife scene is very limited.

Is Everglades National Park or Key West Better for Resorts?

Key West is a great town for its luxury resorts. However, Everglades National Park is not a resort destination.

Vacationers can choose from a number of terrific resorts in Key West. There are a number of high end resorts around the island, many with recognizable names such as the Hyatt and Hilton. Prices can be high, but these resorts often come with reliable luxury.

Everglades National Park is not a resort destination.

Is Everglades National Park or Key West Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Key West is very good for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Everglades National Park is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

It's worth going snorkeling or scuba diving in Key West. There are a number of dive shops and snorkeling excursions that leave from Key West. Like many tourist areas these days, the coral shows its damage from the crowds, but you'll likely see some barracuda or a Grouper.

Everglades National Park is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Everglades National Park or Key West Better for Beaches?

Key West is a great town for the beach. However, Everglades National Park is not a beach destination.

Key West is a very popular place to visit for its beaches. One of the best beaches in the area is Fort Zachary Taylor Historic State Park. The beach has soft sand and stunning turquoise water. As is typical in the Keys, the water stays shallow for great distances.

Everglades National Park is not a beach destination.

Is Everglades National Park or Key West Better for its Old Town?

Key West is a great town for its historic old town charm. However, Everglades National Park does not have a historic old town.

There is a nice variety of sights in the old town of Key West. The town has the most charming Old Town areas in the Florida Keys. Head to Mallory Square for the sunset street performers and explore the historic streets around Duval Street.

Everglades National Park does not have a historic old town.

Is Everglades National Park or Key West Better for Hiking?

Everglades National Park is notable for the nearby hiking options. However, Key West is not a hiking destination.

Everglades National Park is a popular spot for hiking. The trails take you through a variety of habitats and range in length from short nature walks to longer, in depth hikes. Do be aware that the insects can be brutal. Mosquitos and biting flies are both common.

Key West is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Everglades National Park or Key West?

Key West is adequate for its shopping areas. However, Everglades National Park is not known for shopping.

Key West has some good spots for those that want to go shopping. While it definitely has its share of gimmicky souvenir shops and t-shirt stores, there are still a number of art galleries and local shops around Key West where you can enjoy shopping.

Everglades National Park has some shopping areas for those that seek them out. There's a park store, but otherwise the shopping is very limited.

Is Everglades National Park or Key West More Beautiful?

Key West is a great town for its scenery and beauty. Also, Everglades National Park is not as popular, but is still a nice national park for its scenery and beauty.

With stunning beauty, Key West attracts visitors from all around. There are blue waters as far as the eye can see. It doesn't get much more beautiful than this.

Everglades National Park is a gorgeous place to visit. The natural beauty is impressive and it's easy to see why this is a highlight for many visitors to southern Florida.

Is Everglades National Park or Key West Better for Families?

Key West is a great town for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Everglades National Park is not as popular, but is still a nice national park for its family-friendly activities.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Key West. Families that enjoy snorkeling, aquariums, water sports, and exploring new places will enjoy visiting this part of the Florida Keys. There are many ways to get out on the water from kayaking and snorkeling to glass bottom boat tours and sunset cruises. There are also many kid-friendly beaches in the area. The town can have a party atmosphere, but it's not hard to find a more family-friendly area where everyone can have fun.

Everglades National Park is a family-friendly place to visit. An airboat ride is a highlight for many kids. There's also hiking, kayaking, and even Junior Ranger programs. Do be on the lookout for mosquitoes, which can be relentless in the park.

Is Everglades National Park or Key West Better for Couples?

Key West is a great town for couples. Also, Everglades National Park is not as popular, but is still a nice national park for romance.

Key West is a great town if you're traveling as a couple. From Mallory Square to the beautiful nearby parks, Key West makes a wonderful, romantic destination. Whether it's your honeymoon, an anniversary, or simply a couples' retreat, Key West is a great option. You can sip wine on a sunset cruise or dine at one of the many character-filled restaurants in town. If you are looking for a party, it's not hard to find, but if you want a more laid back holiday, that's also possible.

Everglades National Park is a nice destination for couples. Hiking and enjoying a bit of nature makes for a nice romantic getaway. Go kayaking or take an airboat ride and then enjoy some time exploring the natural setting.

Is Everglades National Park or Key West Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Everglades National Park is notable for backpackers. However, Key West is a mediocre town for backpackers and budget travelers.

Everglades National Park is a great national park to visit for backpackers. There are two drive-in campgrounds (Long Pine Key Campground and Flamingo Campground) that you can reach from the Homestead entrance to the park.

Key West is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. Key West is a pretty expensive destination, but there are Airbnbs and even a hostel or two that cater to budget backpackers.

Is Everglades National Park or Key West Better for Students?

Key West is a great town for its student-friendly activities. However, Everglades National Park is not popular with students.

Key West is very popular with students. It's a great spring break destination with a quirky personality and many great activities.

Everglades National Park is not popular with students.

Is Everglades National Park or Key West Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Neither Everglades National Park or Key West offer decent public transit.

Public transit is quite limited in Everglades National Park. There is no real public transportation to the park so an organized tour is your best option if you don't have a vehicle.

Public transit is limited or non-existant in Key West. Public transportation in Key West is limited to a few buses.

Is Everglades National Park or Key West a more walkable city?

Key West is very good for its ease of walking around. However, Everglades National Park is not known for its walkability.

Key West is a somewhat walkable town. The town is the most walkable part of the Florida Keys. The area around Mallory Square and Duval Street is the most pedestrian friendly.

Everglades National Park is generally not very walkable. While there are hiking trails, to really explore the park you'll want to have a car or take an organized tour.

For even more information, also check out Is Everglades National Park Worth Visiting? and Is Key West Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Key West or Everglades National Park?

How long in Everglades National Park or Key West?

Both Everglades National Park and Key West have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Key West than in Everglades National Park. Usually, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Everglades National Park, and 5-7 days is enough time in Key West.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Key West than Everglades National Park 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 Key West.

One day in Everglades National Park or Key West?

The national park of Everglades National Park offers . Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. 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.

With food and scuba diving and snorkeling around the quaint town of Key West, there's plenty to do. Visiting the old town is also a must. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

A weekend in Everglades National Park or Key West?

Everglades National Park is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this national park makes for a great vacation. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Everglades National Park, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

With scuba diving and snorkeling and nightlife around the lively destination of Key West, there's plenty to do. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Five days in Everglades National Park or Key West?

Everglades National Park is a popular choice for travelers. Five days is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

With nightlife and food around the lively town of Key West, there's plenty to do. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from. Five days here is typical. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Five days is usually enough time to experience most activities.

A week in Everglades National Park or Key West?

Everglades National Park is a great place to explore. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This national park offers something for everyone.

Key West is a great place to explore. It is common to spend one week here. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. So, one week is just the right amount of time to spend here. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Luxury Tours to United States of America, The Best Tours for Seniors to United States of America, The Best Contiki Tours to United States of America, and The Best G Adventures Tours to United States of America.

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

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Everglades National Park Expensive? and Is Key West Expensive?.

When is the best time to visit Everglades National Park or Key West?

Both places have a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. As both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Everglades National Park or Key West in the Summer?

Both Key West and Everglades National Park during the summer are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Everglades National Park for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Furthermore, the summer months attract visitors to Key West because of the beaches, snorkeling, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Everglades National Park is generally around the same temperature as Key West. Daily temperatures in Everglades National Park average around 82°F (28°C), and Key West fluctuates around 84°F (29°C).

In Key West, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Everglades National Park. In the summer, Everglades National Park often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Key West. Everglades National Park gets 316 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Key West receives 328 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Everglades National Park. Everglades National Park usually gets more rain in July than Key West. Everglades National Park gets 5.9 inches (149 mm) of rain, while Key West receives 3.3 inches (83 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Everglades National Park or Key West in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Everglades National Park and Key West. The autumn months attract visitors to Everglades National Park because of the hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area. Furthermore, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Key West this time of year.

Everglades National Park is around the same temperature as Key West in the autumn. The daily temperature in Everglades National Park averages around 78°F (26°C) in October, and Key West fluctuates around 80°F (27°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Key West this time of the year. In Everglades National Park, it's very sunny this time of the year. Everglades National Park usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Key West during autumn. Everglades National Park gets 275 hours of sunny skies, while Key West receives 258 hours of full sun in the autumn.

Key West receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Everglades National Park gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In October, Everglades National Park usually receives more rain than Key West. Everglades National Park gets 5.6 inches (143 mm) of rain, while Key West receives 5.1 inches (129 mm) of rain each month for the autumn. The hurricane season in Everglades National Park is June to November. The hurricane season in Key West is June to November.

Should I visit Everglades National Park or Key West in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Everglades National Park as well as Key West. The museums and the cuisine are the main draw to Everglades National Park this time of year. Additionally, many travelers come to Key West for the shopping scene and the cuisine.

In the winter, Everglades National Park is around the same temperature as Key West. Typically, the winter temperatures in Everglades National Park in January average around 67°F (19°C), and Key West averages at about 70°F (21°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Key West. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Everglades National Park this time of the year. In the winter, Everglades National Park often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Key West. Everglades National Park gets 243 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Key West receives 252 hours of full sun.

Everglades National Park usually gets more rain in January than Key West. Everglades National Park gets 2.2 inches (55 mm) of rain, while Key West receives 1.7 inches (43 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Everglades National Park or Key West in the Spring?

Both Key West and Everglades National Park are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Everglades National Park for the natural beauty. Also, many visitors come to Key West in the spring for the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty.

In April, Everglades National Park is generally around the same temperature as Key West. Daily temperatures in Everglades National Park average around 74°F (24°C), and Key West fluctuates around 77°F (25°C).

It's quite sunny in Key West. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Everglades National Park. Everglades National Park usually receives less sunshine than Key West during spring. Everglades National Park gets 300 hours of sunny skies, while Key West receives 326 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Everglades National Park usually receives more rain than Key West. Everglades National Park gets 3.1 inches (78 mm) of rain, while Key West receives 0.8 inches (21 mm) of rain each month for the spring. June to November is the hurricane season in Everglades National Park. June to November is the hurricane season in Key West.

Typical Weather for Key West and Everglades National Park