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

Should you visit Fort Lauderdale or Vernon?

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 Vernon. 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. With stunning beauty, Fort Lauderdale attracts visitors from all around. Other popular activities here include shopping, nightlife, and food. See Fort Lauderdale travel costs.

Vernon

Vernon is a peaceful, relaxing, and quiet town. It's also known for shopping, museums, and food. See Vernon travel costs.

Fort Lauderdale and Vernon: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Fort Lauderdale or Vernon?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Fort Lauderdale than Vernon, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Fort Lauderdale is better known for its food, nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and impressive beauty, while Vernon is more popular for its museums and attractions and hiking. Fort Lauderdale is more touristy than Vernon and is known for its canals, beaches, walkable waterfront, and luxury resorts. Also, Fort Lauderdale is famous for The Local Beaches. Vernon is well known for its surrounding valley with lakes and hiking trails.

How is Fort Lauderdale different from Vernon?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Vernon is a good destination for its museums and landmarks. However, Fort Lauderdale does not have museums and landmarks.

Vernon is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. There are local galleries and museums that offer information on the region's history and culture. You can visit the Canadian Wildlife Museum, the Caetani Center, the Museum and Archives of Vernon, the Paddlewheel Park Stationhouse Museum, and the Vernon Public Art Gallery.

Fort Lauderdale does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Fort Lauderdale is a well-known place for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Vernon is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its restaurants.

Dining out in Fort Lauderdale is an experience not to be missed. 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.

There are plenty of up and coming restaurants around Vernon. The region is known for its vineyards and wineries and many of the local restaurants have been around for generations. The food is often locally produced and prepared with traditional recipes.

Is Fort Lauderdale or Vernon Better for Nightlife?

Fort Lauderdale is a well-known place for its evening party scene. However, Vernon is not a good town for nightlife.

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.

Those looking for nightlife will find a few places to hang out in Vernon. The town gets very quiet in the evenings, so you won't find much of a nightlife scene.

Is Fort Lauderdale or Vernon Better for Resorts?

Fort Lauderdale is terrific for its resorts. However, Vernon 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.

Vernon is not a resort destination.

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

Fort Lauderdale is a nice place to visit for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Vernon 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.

Vernon is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Fort Lauderdale or Vernon Better for Beaches?

Fort Lauderdale is terrific for the beach. However, Vernon 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.

Vernon is not a beach destination.

Is Fort Lauderdale or Vernon Better for Hiking?

Vernon 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 Vernon. The surrounding valley has more than 300 kilometers of hiking trails. They run along pristine lakes, pass by granite rock formations, and take you to impressive viewpoints.

Fort Lauderdale is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Fort Lauderdale or Vernon?

Shopping is a popular activity in both Vernon 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 Vernon. There are a number of boutique shops that are fun to explore in the downtown area.

Is Fort Lauderdale or Vernon More Beautiful?

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

With stunning beauty, Fort Lauderdale attracts visitors from all around. Seven miles of scenic coastline with a boardwalk to explore make this a beautiful Florida beach destination.

Vernon is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Fort Lauderdale or Vernon Better for Families?

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

Fort Lauderdale is known to be 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.

Vernon is a family-friendly coastal city. There are biking and hiking trails as well as other outdoor activities. You can also visit the Allan Brooks Nature Center or the Rock Garden Climbing Center.

Is Fort Lauderdale or Vernon Better for Couples?

Fort Lauderdale is terrific for couples. Also, Vernon is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for romance.

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.

Vernon is a nice destination for couples. It offers a peaceful getaway for couples. You can visit the Okanagan wineries or enjoy one of the many hiking trails. There are also nice restaurants to try.

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

You'll find somewhat comparable public transit options in both Fort Lauderdale and Vernon.

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

Public transit is mostly limited in Vernon. There is a bus system, but it's better not to rely on it.

Is Fort Lauderdale or Vernon a more walkable city?

Fort Lauderdale is a well-known place for its ease of walking around. However, Vernon is not a good town 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.

Vernon is generally not a very walkable coastal city. You'll really want to have a car to make the most of your time here.

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

Should I spend more time in Vernon or Fort Lauderdale?

How long in Fort Lauderdale or Vernon?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Fort Lauderdale and Vernon. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Fort Lauderdale than in Vernon. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Fort Lauderdale, and 1-3 days is enough time in Vernon.

Families should spend more time in Fort Lauderdale than Vernon. 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 Vernon. 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 Vernon 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 Vernon.

One day in Fort Lauderdale or Vernon?

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 quiet destination of Vernon offers shopping and museums. 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 enough time to experience most activities.

A weekend in Fort Lauderdale or Vernon?

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 town of Vernon offers museums and food. 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 Vernon?

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.

Vernon is a great place to explore. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. This town offers something for everyone. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

A week in Fort Lauderdale or Vernon?

Many travelers enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping when visiting the luxury 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 shopping and museums when visiting Vernon. 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 Coach Bus Tours in Canada, and The Best Adventure Tours to Canada.

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

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 Vernon Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Fort Lauderdale or Vernon?

Fort Lauderdale has a larger population, and is about 4 times larger than the population of Vernon. When comparing the sizes of Fort Lauderdale and Vernon, 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 Vernon?

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 Vernon in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Fort Lauderdale and Vernon. Many visitors come to Fort Lauderdale in the summer for the beaches, snorkeling, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Vernon for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In July, Fort Lauderdale is generally a little warmer than Vernon. Daily temperatures in Fort Lauderdale average around 83°F (28°C), and Vernon fluctuates around 23°C (73°F).

Fort Lauderdale gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In July, Fort Lauderdale usually receives more rain than Vernon. Fort Lauderdale gets 5.9 inches (149 mm) of rain, while Vernon receives 28 mm (1.1 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Fort Lauderdale or Vernon in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Fort Lauderdale as well as Vernon. Most visitors come to Fort Lauderdale for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area during these months. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Vernon because of the hiking trails and the shopping scene.

Fort Lauderdale is much warmer than Vernon in the autumn. The daily temperature in Fort Lauderdale averages around 78°F (26°C) in October, and Vernon fluctuates around 11°C (51°F).

Fort Lauderdale receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Fort Lauderdale usually gets more rain in October than Vernon. Fort Lauderdale gets 5.6 inches (143 mm) of rain, while Vernon receives 14 mm (0.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Fort Lauderdale or Vernon in the Winter?

Both Vernon and Fort Lauderdale are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The winter months attract visitors to Fort Lauderdale because of the shopping scene and the cuisine. Also, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Vernon this time of year.

It's quite cold in Vernon in the winter. In the winter, Fort Lauderdale is much warmer than Vernon. Typically, the winter temperatures in Fort Lauderdale in January average around 67°F (20°C), and Vernon averages at about -3°C (27°F).

In January, Fort Lauderdale usually receives more rain than Vernon. Fort Lauderdale gets 2.2 inches (55 mm) of rain, while Vernon receives 26 mm (1 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Fort Lauderdale or Vernon in the Spring?

Both Vernon and Fort Lauderdale during the spring are popular places to visit. The beaches and the natural beauty are the main draw to Fort Lauderdale this time of year.

In April, Fort Lauderdale is generally much warmer than Vernon. Daily temperatures in Fort Lauderdale average around 75°F (24°C), and Vernon fluctuates around 12°C (53°F).

Fort Lauderdale usually gets more rain in April than Vernon. Fort Lauderdale gets 3.1 inches (78 mm) of rain, while Vernon receives 15 mm (0.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Vernon and Fort Lauderdale