A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Fort Lauderdale vs. Denver for Couples, Food, Nightlife, and Families

Should you visit Fort Lauderdale or Denver?

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

Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for Fort Lauderdale and Denver. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.

Fort Lauderdale

Fort Lauderdale is a spirited, luxury, and high energy coastal city. The beauty of Fort Lauderdale is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the shopping, nightlife, and food. See Fort Lauderdale travel costs.

Denver

Denver is a suburban, accessible, and sprawling city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. It's also known for hiking, shopping, and skiing. See Denver travel costs.

Fort Lauderdale and Denver: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Nice resorts
  • Good scuba and snorkeling destination
  • Popular beach
  • Known for its beauty
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Very walkable
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to the Local Beaches
Pros
  • Popular for skiing
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for students
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for food
  • Less popular with couples
  • Less walkable


Is there more to do in Fort Lauderdale or Denver?

Visitors will generally find more to do in Fort Lauderdale than Denver. While Denver is larger than Fort Lauderdale, Fort Lauderdale has more sights, attractions, and activities for tourists. Fort Lauderdale is very popular for its food, nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and impressive beauty, while Denver attracts visitors for its skiing, museums and attractions, hiking, and big city activities. Fort Lauderdale is more touristy than Denver and is known for its canals, beaches, walkable waterfront, and luxury resorts. It is also well known for The Local Beaches. Denver is famous for serving as a gateway to the Rocky Mountains and the many national parks that are in the area.

How is Fort Lauderdale different from Denver?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Fort Lauderdale or Denver Better for Skiing?

Fort Lauderdale
Denver

Denver is a good destination for winter skiing. However, Fort Lauderdale is not a skiing destination.

Denver is a great destination for skiing with plenty areas to explore. Although there's no skiing in the immediate area, there is a huge list of world class ski resorts within an hour or two of town. Two of the closest are Echo Mountain Resort and Loveland Ski Area.

Fort Lauderdale is not a skiing destination.


Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Fort Lauderdale or Denver?

Fort Lauderdale
Denver

Denver is a city with a few options for its museums and landmarks. However, Fort Lauderdale does not have museums and landmarks.

Denver offers a handful of options for museums and historical sights. Many people use Denver as a starting or ending point for their mountain and national park trip, but those who linger can visit some of the city's museums and sights. Popular museums include the Denver Museum of Nature and Science, the History Colorado Center, and the Forney Museum of Transportation.

Fort Lauderdale does not have museums and landmarks.

Is the Food Better in Fort Lauderdale or Denver? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Fort Lauderdale
Denver

Fort Lauderdale is a well-known place for its local cuisine and restaurants. However, Denver is not a good city for its restaurants.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Fort Lauderdale. Seafood is the obvious option with popular dishes being fish tacos, sea bass, and scallop risotto. There are many waterfront restaurants or you could head to Las Olas Boulevard, which has many bistros, cafes, and restaurants.

Denver may not make the list for most foodies, but you'll find what you need while you're in town. It's a pretty large city, so you'll find some nice local restaurants, but the foodie scene is still emerging in many neighborhoods. A number of restaurants offer outdoor seating, which is nice. You'll also find a growing selection of international restaurants. For something uniquely local, you should try the Bison steak and fried pickles.

Is Fort Lauderdale or Denver Better for Nightlife?

Fort Lauderdale
Denver

Fort Lauderdale is a well-known place for nightlife and partying. Also, Denver is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its evening party scene.

Fort Lauderdale offers plenty to do in the evening. Trendy and upscale partying is the name of the game in this Florida city. Most people head to the beach, Las Olas Blvd, River Front and The New Hard Rock Seminole Hotel Complex for the best bars and clubs. You'll find the most activity around the weekends, but there really is something going on any night of the week.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Denver. The city has come a long way with its nightlife. There's a great craft beer scene and the downtown area has really come to life. Popular bars and clubs in town include the Grizzly Rose and 54Thirty Rooftop. Many places are concentrated in the Soco Nightlife District.


Is Fort Lauderdale or Denver Better for Resorts?

Fort Lauderdale
Denver

Fort Lauderdale is renowned for its resorts. However, Denver is not a resort destination.

Fort Lauderdale offers an unforgettable resort vacation. Luxury beachfront resorts are plentiful in the area. Several of the most impressive include the Ritz-Carlton, W Fort Lauderdale, and the Dalmar. Most resorts have a beachfront pool, hot tubs, and depending on the resort, a kid's club.

Denver is not a resort destination.

Is Fort Lauderdale or Denver Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Fort Lauderdale
Denver

Fort Lauderdale is a nice place to visit for its diving and snorkeling. However, Denver is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Fort Lauderdale has a few areas where visitors often go scuba diving or snorkeling. Although the snorkeling doesn't compare to what you'll find further south around the Florida Keys, there are some great places to pull your mask and fins out in the area. Popular snorkeling spots nearby include the Vista Park Reef, Pompano Beach, and Hollywood North Beach Park.

Denver is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Fort Lauderdale or Denver Better for Beaches?

Fort Lauderdale
Denver

Fort Lauderdale is renowned for the beach. However, Denver is not a beach destination.

The beaches in Fort Lauderdale are among the best in the world. With seven miles of beautiful sandy beaches, a fun boardwalk, and impressive views, the beaches here are among the best in the area. They are surprisingly walkable and, while there can be crowds, there's still a laid-back and relaxing atmosphere.

Denver is not a beach destination.


Is Fort Lauderdale or Denver Better for Hiking?

Fort Lauderdale
Denver

Denver is a good destination for its hiking experiences. However, Fort Lauderdale is not a hiking destination.

Denver offers some nice hiking trails. The city is very close to many beautiful parks and hiking areas in the Rocky Mountains. It's not hard to make a day trip from town and enjoy some great hiking. Nice options include the Trading Post Trail in Red Rocks Mountain Park, Bergen Peak near Evergreen, and Chimney Gulch Trail near the town of Golden.

Fort Lauderdale is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Fort Lauderdale or Denver?

Fort Lauderdale
Denver

Shopping is a popular activity in both Denver and Fort Lauderdale.

Fort Lauderdale is a great destination for shopping. For interesting local boutiques head to Las Olas Boulevard and for name brand stores you'll want to visit Sawgrass Mills Mall.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Denver. The city has many outlet malls that budget shoppers appreciate. There are also weekend farmer's markets, boutique shopping areas, and all of the major chains that you'll find in most larger cities.

Is Fort Lauderdale or Denver More Beautiful?

Fort Lauderdale
Denver

Fort Lauderdale is a well-known place for its scenery and beauty. However, Denver is not a destination known for its beauty.

The beauty of Fort Lauderdale is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Seven miles of scenic coastline with a boardwalk to explore make this a beautiful Florida beach destination.

Denver is not a destination known for its beauty.


Is Fort Lauderdale or Denver Better for Families?

Fort Lauderdale
Denver

Fort Lauderdale is a well-known place for its family-friendly activities. Also, Denver is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

Fort Lauderdale is a very kid-friendly coastal city. With seven miles of beautiful sandy beaches and a number of kid-oriented activities, the kids will love it here. Fun activities include Bluefoot Pirate Adventures, Butterfly World, and Funderdome. On sunny days there are many outdoor recreation areas and when the weather isn't cooperating, there are hands-on museums.

Denver is a family-friendly coastal city. It is a family-friendly city with museums, playgrounds, and plenty of outdoor activities. There are also a few ropes courses near town that kids and adults alike will enjoy. Popular activities include the Denver Zoo, the Denver Museum of Nature and Science, and Children's Museum of Denver at Marsico Campus.

Is Fort Lauderdale or Denver Better for Couples?

Fort Lauderdale
Denver

Fort Lauderdale is renowned for its romantic activities. Also, Denver is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for couples.

Fort Lauderdale has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. Fine dining, beautiful beaches, and great shopping make for a great romantic getaway. Couples and honeymooners love relaxing at the beaches in Fort Lauderdale. A sunset walk on the beach and a stay at a romantic resort will make for an unforgettable trip.

Denver is a good coastal city for couples to visit. There are many beautiful and romantic outdoor activities in the area such as parks and botanical gardens. There are also spas, including the impressive Spa at the Brown Palace, as well as upscale restaurants and fun bars and clubs to explore.

Is Fort Lauderdale or Denver Better for Students?

Fort Lauderdale
Denver

Denver is a good destination for students. However, Fort Lauderdale is not popular with students.

Denver is popular with students. There are a few students in the city, but there isn't a college town vibe that you'd get at other nearby university areas.

Fort Lauderdale is not popular with students.


Is Fort Lauderdale or Denver Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Fort Lauderdale
Denver

Denver is a good destination for its public transit. However, Fort Lauderdale is a coastal city with minimal options for times when you don't have a car.

You'll find some public transit in Denver, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. If you're not planning to leave town, the light rail and bus systems offer good access to much of Denver.

Public transit is mostly limited in Fort Lauderdale. Transportation options include a water taxi and the Sun Trolley Hop-on Bus.

Is Fort Lauderdale or Denver a more walkable city?

Fort Lauderdale
Denver

Fort Lauderdale is a well-known place for its high level of walkability. However, Denver is not a good city for its ease of walking around.

Fort Lauderdale is a very walkable coastal city. It is one of the most walkable Florida communities with a boardwalk and several pedestrian areas that are fun to wander around.

Denver is not a very walkable coastal city. While the downtown area is generally walkable, this is still a sprawling city where you'll really want to have a car to access areas outside of town.

For even more information, also check out Is Fort Lauderdale Worth Visiting? and Is Denver Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Denver or Fort Lauderdale?

How long in Fort Lauderdale or Denver?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Fort Lauderdale and Denver. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Fort Lauderdale than in Denver. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Fort Lauderdale, and 2-3 days is enough time in Denver.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Denver than Fort Lauderdale 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 Denver.


  • How many days in Fort Lauderdale or Denver? Ideal Length of Stay
    Fort Lauderdale 3-7 
    Denver 2-3

One day in Fort Lauderdale or Denver?

Many travelers enjoy the shopping and nightlife when visiting the destination of Fort Lauderdale. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

The suburban destination of Denver offers nightlife and shopping. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.


A weekend in Fort Lauderdale or Denver?

Fort Lauderdale is a great place to explore. Don't miss the beaches, as that's what most people do. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

The city of Denver offers shopping and skiing. A weekend here is typical. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything. A weekend is often enough time to do most activities.

Five days in Fort Lauderdale or Denver?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Fort Lauderdale. Don't miss the beaches, as that's what most people do. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. Most people come for the beaches. With all of its activities, you can easily fill five days here. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Denver is a great place to explore. This city offers something for everyone. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

A week in Fort Lauderdale or Denver?

Many travelers enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping when visiting the bustling destination of Fort Lauderdale. This coastal city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. If you have one week, this is a great place to go. This would be the perfect place to spend one week, as it has just the right amount of activities.

Many people enjoy the nightlife and shopping when visiting Denver. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. 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 New York City, The Best 2-Week Tours from Anchorage, The Best 2-Week Tours from San Francisco, and The Best 2-Week Tours from Los Angeles.


Which place is cheaper, Denver or Fort Lauderdale?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations. These travel costs come from the actual spending of real travelers.

  • Fort Lauderdale Prices
    USA Prices
    Denver Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Fort Lauderdale $218
    Denver $248

The average daily cost (per person) in Fort Lauderdale is $218, while the average daily cost in Denver is $248. 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 Fort Lauderdale and Denver in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Fort Lauderdale $96
    Denver $87
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Fort Lauderdale $192
    Denver $174
Compare Hotels in Fort Lauderdale and Denver

Looking for a hotel in Fort Lauderdale or Denver? 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 Fort Lauderdale


Hotels in Denver


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: Fort Lauderdale Hotel Prices and Denver Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Fort Lauderdale $51
    Denver $101

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Fort Lauderdale

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Fort Lauderdale:

  • FLL Airport Private Transfer to City | Port: $26
  • Port Everglades Private Transfer from Weston: $58
  • Fort Lauderdale to Fort Lauderdale Airport (FLL) - Departure Private Transfer: $59
  • Private Arrival Transfer from Fort Lauderdale Airport FLL: $67
  • Fort Lauderdale Airport: Private Transfer to Hollywood: $69
  • Fort Lauderdale Airport: Private Transfer to Fort Lauderdale: $69
  • One Way Private Transfer to/from Airport: $75
  • Fort Lauderdale Airport Private Transfer (Up To 14 Passengers): $75
  • Fort Lauderdale Airport (FLL) to Boynton Beach - Arrival Private Transfer: $75
  • Fort Lauderdale to Miami Airport (MIA) - Departure Private Transfer: $82
  • Port Everglades to Fort Lauderdale Airport FLL-Departure Transfer: $86
  • Marathon/ Key Largo to Fort Lauderdale Airport(FLL) - Departure Private Transfer: $88

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Denver

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Denver:

  • Arrival Private Transfer Denver Airport DEN to Denver City by SUV: $290
  • Arrival Private Transfer: Denver Airport DEN to Denver in Business Car: $119
  • Arrival Private Transfer: Denver Airport DEN to Denver in Luxury Van: $149
  • Arrival Transfer Denver Airport DEN to Denver City by Luxury Car: $170
  • Avon/Vail Valley to Denver Airport (DEN) - Departure Private Transfer : $143
  • Denver Airport (DEN) to Aspen hotel or address - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $287
  • Denver Airport (DEN) to Avon/Vail Valley - Arrival Private Transfer : $143
  • Denver Airport (DEN) to Avon/Vail Valley - Round-Trip Private Transfer : $287
  • Denver Airport (DEN) to Breckenridge - Arrival Private Transfer: $143
  • Denver Airport (DEN) to Keystone resort - Arrival Private Transfer: $143
  • Denver Airport (DEN) to Keystone resort - Round-Trip Private Transfer : $287
  • Denver Airport (DEN): Private Transfer to Denver hotels: $276

Is it cheaper to fly into Fort Lauderdale or Denver?

Prices for flights to both Denver and Fort Lauderdale 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
    Fort Lauderdale $85
    Denver $73
Typical Food Prices in Fort Lauderdale

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for food and meal costs in Fort Lauderdale:


  • Quick Lunch
    $12

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Fort Lauderdale

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Fort Lauderdale.

  • Immersive Sushi Cooking Class in Fort Lauderdale: $75
  • Intracoastal Cruise with Waterfront Dinner: $80
  • All You Can Eat BBQ Dinner and Show at Tropical Isle with Sightseeing Cruise: $80
  • Hollywood Florida Walking Food Tour : $109
  • Atlantic Village Walking Food Tour: $109
  • Downtown Fort Lauderdale Dinner & Drinks Tour: $109
  • Downtown Fort Lauderdale Dinner and Drinks Tour: $114
  • Fort Lauderdale Beach Food Tour: $114
  • Fort Lauderdale Historic District Food Tour Experience: $120
  • Hollywood Beach Walking Food Tour: $139

Typical Food Prices in Denver

Some typical examples of dining costs in Denver are as follows:


  • Sushi Dinner (for 2)
    $61

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Denver

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Denver.

  • Epic Pad Thai Cooking Class in Denver: $55
  • 16th Street Mall Food Tour with Local Guide: $62
  • Arts District Walking Food Tour: $79
  • Mystery Puzzle Food Tour in Golden, CO: $80
  • Denver RiNo Arts District Food Tour: $85
  • Downtown Denver Food Tour: $85
  • Denver Food Tour: 6+ Tastings in Historic Downtown: $99
  • Dinner Food Tour in RiNo Denver : $99
  • RiNo Evening Food Tour with a Local Guide: $99
  • Denver Food Tour: Wild West Flavors & Downtown Classics: $111
  • Taste of the City Food Tour by Bike or E-Bike: $125

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Fort Lauderdale $15
    Denver $52

Tours and Activities in Fort Lauderdale

Here are a few actual costs in Fort Lauderdale for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • Unique Scavenger Hunt Experience in Pembroke Pines by Wacky Walks: $10
  • Unique Scavenger Hunt Experience in Davie by Crazy Dash: $10
  • Fort Lauderdale Riverwalk Self-guided Audio Walking Tour: $11
  • 1-Hour Family Pirate Adventure Cruise: $22
  • Fort Lauderdale Fallen Frights and Fury Ghost Tour: $24
  • Private BLU3 Nomad Scuba Demo Experience in Deerfield: $25
  • Fort Lauderdale Fallen Frights and Fury Ghost Tour: $26
  • Holiday Mansion Lights Boat Tour: $30
  • Florida Everglades Airboat Adventure and Wildlife Encounter: $31
  • Jungle Queen Riverboat 90-Minute Narrated Sightseeing Cruise in Fort Lauderdale: $31
  • VENICE OF AMERICA TOUR!! Best of Fort Lauderdale over 30 years!!!: $32
  • Sea Rocket Speedboat & Intracoastal Cruise in Ft Lauderdale: $33

Tours and Activities in Denver

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Denver are as follows:

  • $5 Capitol Hill History & Ghost Walking Tour: $5.00
  • Denver's Art District Self Guided Walking Tour: $5.00
  • Denver Scavenger Hunt and Highlights Self Guided Tour: $7.19
  • Denver Scavenger Hunt and Sights Self-Guided Tour: $7.73
  • Denver's Heart A Self Guided Tour of the State Capitol and Beyond: $8.99
  • Denver’s Wild Side: Self-Guided Audio Tour of its Notorious Past: $9.99
  • Winding Pathways of Denver's City Park A Self-Guided Tour : $9.99
  • Unique Scavenger Hunt Experience in Denver by Operation City Quest: $10
  • Fun Royal Scavenger Hunt Adventure in Arvada, CO: $10
  • Self Guided Denver Ghost Hunt: Mile High Ghost Tour: $12
  • Denver Audio Tour Adventure: $15
  • Molly Brown House Museum Self-Guided Tour & Entry: $15

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Fort Lauderdale $33
    Denver $5.31
Typical Alcohol Prices in Fort Lauderdale

Some typical examples of the costs for nightlife and alcohol in Fort Lauderdale are as follows:


  • Beer
    $7.30

Sample the Local Flavors in Fort Lauderdale

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Fort Lauderdale:

  • Ft Lauderdale Ghosts Boos and Booze Haunted Pub Crawl: $29
  • Ft. Lauderdale: Boos and Booze Haunted Pub Crawl: $30
  • Pedibus Pub Crawl in Fort Lauderdale: $74

Sample the Local Flavors in Denver

Also in Denver, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • Denver Bar Crawl Lodo Bar Crawl: $15
  • California Vs. Colorado Wine Tasting: $30
  • Spirits & Spirits Haunted Pub Crawl: $30
  • 4+ Hour Themed Bar Crawl Through Denver's RiNo Arts District : $35
  • Private Vintner's Wine Tasting Experience in Colorado: $40
  • Downtown Denver Pub Crawl - Food & Drinks Included!: $50
  • Neighborhood Bar Crawl in RiNo Arts District (Denver): $50
  • Vintner's Personalized Wine Tasting Experience: $60
  • Wild West Pub Crawl: $61
  • Buds & Brews Cannabis Grow Tour and Brewery Visit: $67
  • E-Bike & Brews: Denver's Platte River & Brewery E-Bike Tour: $125
  • Denver Pedicab Brewery Tour: $130


When comparing the travel costs between Fort Lauderdale and Denver, we can see that Denver 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 Fort Lauderdale Expensive? and Is Denver Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Fort Lauderdale or Denver?

Denver has a larger population, and is about 3 times larger than the population of Fort Lauderdale. When comparing the sizes of Fort Lauderdale and Denver, 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.