A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Fort Lauderdale vs. Niagara Falls for Families, Couples, Food, and Nightlife

Should you visit Fort Lauderdale or Niagara Falls?

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 Niagara Falls. 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 scenic, bustling, and spirited coastal city. The beauty of Fort Lauderdale is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the scuba diving and snorkeling, beaches, and shopping. See Fort Lauderdale travel costs.

Niagara Falls

Niagara Falls is a iconic, breathtaking, and impressive city. Niagara Falls is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for hiking, shopping, and nightlife. See Niagara Falls travel costs.

Fort Lauderdale and Niagara Falls: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Fort Lauderdale or Niagara Falls?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Fort Lauderdale than Niagara Falls. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Fort Lauderdale is very popular for its food, nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, and beaches, while Niagara Falls attracts visitors for its museums and attractions and hiking. Fort Lauderdale is famous for its canals, beaches, walkable waterfront, and luxury resorts. It is also well known for The Local Beaches. Niagara Falls is famous for the large volume of water that flows over it.

How is Fort Lauderdale different from Niagara Falls?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Niagara Falls 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 Niagara Falls?

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

Niagara Falls offers a handful of options for museums and historical sights. The Niagara Falls History Museum is one of the best museums in the area. There are also more touristy museums and attractions that you can visit as well. There's also a butterfly conservancy that is worth checking out.

Fort Lauderdale does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Fort Lauderdale is notable for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Niagara Falls is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit 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.

Niagara Falls is becoming an appealing option for foodies. It's an iconic Canadian destination so, of course, you should try all things Canadian while you're in town. Maple syrup, poutine, butter tart, and beavertail (fried dough) are all things that should be on your list. Also make sure you sample some of the local game meat.

Is Fort Lauderdale or Niagara Falls Better for Nightlife?

Fort Lauderdale is notable for nightlife and partying. Also, Niagara Falls is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its evening party scene.

Fort Lauderdale has plenty to do after the sun goes down. 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 Niagara Falls. There's a decent concentration of clubs, pubs, and bars around town that keep things fun late into the evening.

Is Fort Lauderdale or Niagara Falls Better for Resorts?

Fort Lauderdale is an amazing coastal city to visit for its resorts. However, Niagara Falls is not a resort destination.

For the ultimate resort vacation, Fort Lauderdale is a great choice. 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.

Niagara Falls is not a resort destination.

Is Fort Lauderdale or Niagara Falls Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Fort Lauderdale is a popular place for its diving and snorkeling. However, Niagara Falls is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Fort Lauderdale has a few good snorkeling spots. 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.

Niagara Falls is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Fort Lauderdale or Niagara Falls Better for Beaches?

Fort Lauderdale is an amazing coastal city to visit for the beach. However, Niagara Falls is not a beach destination.

Travelers come from around the world to visit the beaches in Fort Lauderdale. 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.

Niagara Falls is not a beach destination.

Is Fort Lauderdale or Niagara Falls Better for Hiking?

Niagara Falls is a great destination for its hiking experiences. However, Fort Lauderdale is not a hiking destination.

You'll find a nice variety of hiking trails around Niagara Falls. The nearby area is filled with hiking trails that let you escape into nature and enjoy impressive views.

Fort Lauderdale is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Fort Lauderdale or Niagara Falls?

Shopping is a popular activity in both Niagara Falls 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 Niagara Falls. You'll find touristy souvenir shops as well as outlets and malls nearby.

Is Fort Lauderdale or Niagara Falls More Beautiful?

Fort Lauderdale and Niagara Falls both are comparable with their superb 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 Niagara Falls is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. It's an impressive sight and the Canadian side offers the best views. It's definitely something you should try and see at least once.

Is Fort Lauderdale or Niagara Falls Better for Families?

Niagara Falls is a must-visit destination for its family-friendly activities. Also, Fort Lauderdale is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

With a huge array of activities for kids, Niagara Falls is very family-friendly. The views and setting are spectacular, and kids will love the boat tours or taking a ride on the Whirlpool Aero Car. There's also an indoor waterpark, a butterfly conservatory, and plenty of nature to explore.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Fort Lauderdale is very family-friendly. 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.

Is Fort Lauderdale or Niagara Falls Better for Couples?

Fort Lauderdale is an amazing coastal city to visit for its romantic activities. Also, Niagara Falls is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for couples.

Fort Lauderdale makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. 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.

Niagara Falls makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. The setting has long brought to mind romance, and to this day couples still honeymoon at this iconic destination. There are boat tours, nature trails, luxury hotels, and even wineries to explore.

Is Fort Lauderdale or Niagara Falls Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Niagara Falls is a good destination for backpackers. However, Fort Lauderdale is a coastal city with minimal options for backpackers and budget travelers.

Plenty of backpackers visit Niagara Falls. There's a hostel or two where you can stay for cheap and meet other travelers.

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 Niagara Falls Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Niagara Falls 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 Niagara Falls, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There is a bus system through town.

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 Niagara Falls a more walkable city?

Fort Lauderdale is notable for its high level of walkability. Also, Niagara Falls is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit 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.

Niagara Falls is a somewhat walkable coastal city. Most of the attractions and close together by the falls, so it's relatively walkable.

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

Should I spend more time in Niagara Falls or Fort Lauderdale?

How long in Fort Lauderdale or Niagara Falls?

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

Couples should spend more time in Fort Lauderdale than Niagara Falls. 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 Niagara Falls 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 Niagara Falls.

One day in Fort Lauderdale or Niagara Falls?

Many travelers enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping when visiting the luxury destination of Fort Lauderdale. It's also a relaxing resort destination. Don't miss the beaches, as that's what most people do. Your budget might influence how long you stay. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

The impressive destination of Niagara Falls offers food and shopping. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. 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 Niagara Falls?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Fort Lauderdale. Most people come for the beaches. Don't miss the beaches, as that's what most people do. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

The city of Niagara Falls offers shopping and nightlife. 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 Niagara Falls?

Many travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the scenic destination of Fort Lauderdale. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. This coastal city offers a variety of activities to choose from. If you have five days, this is a great place to go. Five days is usually enough time to experience most activities.

Niagara Falls is a great place to explore. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. 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 Niagara Falls?

Many travelers enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling when visiting the beautiful coastal city of Fort Lauderdale. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. Plenty of people spend one week in the area when traveling.So, one week is just the right amount of time to spend here. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Many people enjoy the food and shopping when visiting Niagara Falls. 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 Sightseeing Tours in Canada, and The Best Camping Tours in Canada.

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

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 Niagara Falls Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Fort Lauderdale or Niagara Falls?

Fort Lauderdale has a larger population, and is about 2 times larger than the population of Niagara Falls. When comparing the sizes of Fort Lauderdale and Niagara Falls, 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 Fort Lauderdale or Niagara Falls?

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 Fort Lauderdale or Niagara Falls in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Fort Lauderdale and Niagara Falls. The beaches, snorkeling, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Fort Lauderdale this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Niagara Falls for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Fort Lauderdale is a little warmer than Niagara Falls. Typically, the summer temperatures in Fort Lauderdale in July average around 83°F (28°C), and Niagara Falls averages at about 23°C (74°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Niagara Falls this time of the year. In Fort Lauderdale, it's very sunny this time of the year. Fort Lauderdale usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Niagara Falls during summer. Fort Lauderdale gets 316 hours of sunny skies, while Niagara Falls receives 306 hours of full sun in the summer.

Fort Lauderdale gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In July, Fort Lauderdale usually receives more rain than Niagara Falls. Fort Lauderdale gets 5.9 inches (149 mm) of rain, while Niagara Falls receives 69 mm (2.7 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Fort Lauderdale or Niagara Falls in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Fort Lauderdale as well as Niagara Falls. Many travelers come to Fort Lauderdale for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area. Additionally, many visitors come to Niagara Falls in the autumn for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Fort Lauderdale is generally much warmer than Niagara Falls. Daily temperatures in Fort Lauderdale average around 78°F (26°C), and Niagara Falls fluctuates around 12°C (54°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Fort Lauderdale this time of the year. In the autumn, Fort Lauderdale often gets more sunshine than Niagara Falls. Fort Lauderdale gets 275 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Niagara Falls receives 148 hours of full sun.

Fort Lauderdale receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Fort Lauderdale usually gets more rain in October than Niagara Falls. Fort Lauderdale gets 5.6 inches (143 mm) of rain, while Niagara Falls receives 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Fort Lauderdale or Niagara Falls in the Winter?

Both Niagara Falls and Fort Lauderdale are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Fort Lauderdale in the winter for the shopping scene and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Niagara Falls for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Niagara Falls can be very cold during winter. Fort Lauderdale is much warmer than Niagara Falls in the winter. The daily temperature in Fort Lauderdale averages around 67°F (20°C) in January, and Niagara Falls fluctuates around -4°C (26°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Fort Lauderdale. Fort Lauderdale usually receives more sunshine than Niagara Falls during winter. Fort Lauderdale gets 243 hours of sunny skies, while Niagara Falls receives 89 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Fort Lauderdale usually receives around the same amount of rain as Niagara Falls. Fort Lauderdale gets 2.2 inches (55 mm) of rain, while Niagara Falls receives 52 mm (2 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Fort Lauderdale or Niagara Falls in the Spring?

Both Niagara Falls and Fort Lauderdale during the spring are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Fort Lauderdale for the beaches and the natural beauty during these months. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Niagara Falls because of the natural beauty.

In the spring, Fort Lauderdale is much warmer than Niagara Falls. Typically, the spring temperatures in Fort Lauderdale in April average around 75°F (24°C), and Niagara Falls averages at about 10°C (49°F).

In Niagara Falls, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Fort Lauderdale. In the spring, Fort Lauderdale often gets more sunshine than Niagara Falls. Fort Lauderdale gets 300 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Niagara Falls receives 203 hours of full sun.

Fort Lauderdale usually gets more rain in April than Niagara Falls. Fort Lauderdale gets 3.1 inches (78 mm) of rain, while Niagara Falls receives 63 mm (2.5 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Niagara Falls and Fort Lauderdale