A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Fort Lauderdale vs. Joshua Tree National Park for Couples and Families

Should you visit Fort Lauderdale or Joshua Tree National Park?

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 Joshua Tree National Park. 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 luxury, high energy, and scenic coastal city. With stunning beauty, Fort Lauderdale attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the nightlife, food, and scuba diving and snorkeling. See Fort Lauderdale travel costs.

Joshua Tree National Park

Joshua Tree National Park is a fascinating, adventurous, and unique national park. Joshua Tree National Park is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for hiking. See Joshua Tree National Park travel costs.

Fort Lauderdale and Joshua Tree National Park: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Fort Lauderdale or Joshua Tree National Park?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Fort Lauderdale than Joshua Tree National Park, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Fort Lauderdale is better known for its food, nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and shopping, while Joshua Tree National Park is more popular for its museums and attractions and hiking. Fort Lauderdale is more touristy than Joshua Tree National Park and is popular for its canals, beaches, walkable waterfront, and luxury resorts. Also, Fort Lauderdale is famous for The Local Beaches. Joshua Tree National Park is well known for its unique vegetation and large boulders.

How is Fort Lauderdale different from Joshua Tree National Park?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Fort Lauderdale or Joshua Tree National Park?

Joshua Tree National Park is a national park with a few options for its museums and landmarks. However, Fort Lauderdale does not have museums and landmarks.

Joshua Tree National Park offers a handful of options for museums and historical sights. There are a couple of museums in the area that display local art or cultural and historical items.

Fort Lauderdale does not have museums and landmarks.

Is the Food Better in Fort Lauderdale or Joshua Tree National Park? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Fort Lauderdale is a very popular place for its restaurants. However, Joshua Tree National Park is lacking in good options for its restaurant scene.

Fort Lauderdale has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. 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.

While Joshua Tree National Park is not famous for its food, you'll find what you need there. There aren't any restaurants inside the park, so you'll want to pack your own food and eat at one of the picnic areas.

Is Fort Lauderdale or Joshua Tree National Park Better for Nightlife?

Fort Lauderdale is a very popular place for its evening party scene. However, Joshua Tree National Park is lacking in good options for nightlife.

Fort Lauderdale has a large number of nightlife venues. 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.

Things get quiet in the evenings in Joshua Tree National Park. Stargazing and gathering around campfires are the most popular activities during the evening.

Is Fort Lauderdale or Joshua Tree National Park Better for Resorts?

Fort Lauderdale is renowned for its luxury resorts. However, Joshua Tree National Park is not a resort destination.

Fort Lauderdale is a world class resort vacation destination. 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.

Joshua Tree National Park is not a resort destination.

Is Fort Lauderdale or Joshua Tree National Park Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Fort Lauderdale is a coastal city with good options for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Joshua Tree National Park is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

It's fun to get in the water and check out the local marine life in Fort Lauderdale. 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.

Joshua Tree National Park is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Fort Lauderdale or Joshua Tree National Park Better for Beaches?

Fort Lauderdale is renowned for the beach. However, Joshua Tree National Park is not a beach destination.

Fort Lauderdale is considered to be a world-class beach destination. 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.

Joshua Tree National Park is not a beach destination.

Is Fort Lauderdale or Joshua Tree National Park Better for Hiking?

Joshua Tree National Park is a must-visit destination for its hiking experiences. However, Fort Lauderdale is not a hiking destination.

Joshua Tree National Park is well-known for its hiking and trekking. There are a wide range of hikes that include easy, moderate, and strenuous options. Some of the best hikes include Discovery Trail, Boy Scout Trail, and Black Rock Canyon Panorama Loop.

Fort Lauderdale is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Fort Lauderdale or Joshua Tree National Park?

Fort Lauderdale is a coastal city with good options for its shopping areas. However, Joshua Tree National Park is lacking in good options for shopping.

Fort Lauderdale has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. For interesting local boutiques head to Las Olas Boulevard and for name brand stores you'll want to visit Sawgrass Mills Mall.

Joshua Tree National Park has some shopping areas for those that seek them out. There is a park store where you can pick up gifts or other items.

Is Fort Lauderdale or Joshua Tree National Park More Beautiful?

Fort Lauderdale and Joshua Tree National Park both are comparable with their very good scenery and beauty.

Fort Lauderdale is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Seven miles of scenic coastline with a boardwalk to explore make this a beautiful Florida beach destination.

The beauty of Joshua Tree National Park is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. There are unique Joshua Trees throughout the park as well as beautiful rock formations and striking views.

Is Fort Lauderdale or Joshua Tree National Park Better for Families?

Both Fort Lauderdale and Joshua Tree National Park are very good family-friendly destinations.

Fort Lauderdale is a very family-friendly place to visit. 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.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Joshua Tree National Park is very family-friendly. With its giant boulders that kids can scramble on and its Dr. Seuss-like Joshua Trees, this really is nature's best playground. There are also kid-friendly hikes and Junior Ranger Programs that will both educate and entertain the kids.

Is Fort Lauderdale or Joshua Tree National Park Better for Couples?

Fort Lauderdale is renowned for couples. Also, Joshua Tree National Park is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for romance.

Fort Lauderdale is a great coastal city for couples, as it has plenty to offer. 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.

Couples visit Joshua Tree National Park frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. Couples who enjoy the outdoors, adventure sports like rock climbing, and hiking through spectacular landscapes will find this to be the ultimate romantic destination.

Is Fort Lauderdale or Joshua Tree National Park Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Joshua Tree National Park is a must-visit destination for backpackers. However, Fort Lauderdale is a coastal city with minimal options for backpackers and budget travelers.

Joshua Tree National Park is a mecca for backpackers and budget travelers. There are campgrounds and hiking trails that are popular with backpackers and nature enthusiasts.

Fort Lauderdale is not the best destination for backpackers and budget travelers due to its high prices. You'll find few backpackers heading to the high end city.

Is Fort Lauderdale or Joshua Tree National Park Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Fort Lauderdale is a decent place to visit for times when you don't have a car. However, Joshua Tree National Park is lacking in good options for its public transit.

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

Public transit is limited or non-existant in Joshua Tree National Park. There's no reliable public transportation in the park.

Is Fort Lauderdale or Joshua Tree National Park a more walkable city?

Fort Lauderdale is a very popular place for its ease of walking around. However, Joshua Tree National Park is lacking in good options for its walkability.

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

Joshua Tree National Park is not a walkable coastal city. You need a car to truly explore the park.

For even more information, also check out Is Fort Lauderdale Worth Visiting? and Is Joshua Tree National Park Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Joshua Tree National Park or Fort Lauderdale?

How long in Fort Lauderdale or Joshua Tree National Park?

It's fun to spend time in either Fort Lauderdale or Joshua Tree National Park. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Fort Lauderdale due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Fort Lauderdale, and 2-4 days is enough time in Joshua Tree National Park.

Families should spend more time in Fort Lauderdale than Joshua Tree National Park. 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 Joshua Tree National Park. 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 Fort Lauderdale than Joshua Tree 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 Fort Lauderdale.

One day in Fort Lauderdale or Joshua Tree National Park?

Visitors enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping when visiting the spirited coastal city of Fort Lauderdale. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

The unique destination of Joshua Tree National Park offers . Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. It's no surprise that hiking is why people visit. 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 Joshua Tree National Park?

Visitors enjoy the shopping and nightlife when visiting the destination of Fort Lauderdale. Most people come for the beaches. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Most people visit for the beaches. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

The national park of Joshua Tree National Park offers . Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. 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 Joshua Tree National Park?

Fort Lauderdale is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have five days, this coastal city makes for a great vacation. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. Because of this, five days is usually enough time for a trip here. It offers something for everyone.

Joshua Tree National Park is a great place to explore. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. It's no surprise that hiking is why people visit. This national park offers something for everyone. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

A week in Fort Lauderdale or Joshua Tree National Park?

Fort Lauderdale is a popular choice for travelers. One week here is typical. Most people visit for the beaches. One week is usually enough time to experience most activities. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Many people enjoy the when visiting Joshua Tree National Park. Hikers are also drawn to this area. 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.

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

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 Joshua Tree National Park Expensive?.