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

Should you visit Fort Lauderdale or Wilmington?

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 Wilmington. 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. Fort Lauderdale is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Other reasons to visit include shopping, nightlife, and food. See Fort Lauderdale travel costs.

Wilmington

Wilmington is a charming, historic, and welcoming city. It's also known for food, beaches, and shopping. See Wilmington travel costs.

Fort Lauderdale and Wilmington: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Fort Lauderdale or Wilmington?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Fort Lauderdale than Wilmington, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Fort Lauderdale is more popular for its food, nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and impressive beauty, while Wilmington is known for its museums and attractions and historical sights. Fort Lauderdale is more touristy than Wilmington and is popular for its canals, beaches, walkable waterfront, and luxury resorts. It is also home to The Local Beaches. Wilmington is popular for its laid back beaches, historical waterfront area, and university setting.

How is Fort Lauderdale different from Wilmington?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Wilmington is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. There are art, history, and science museums around town. The Battleship North Carolina is a popular destination. Science enthusiasts will enjoy a visit to the Cape Fear Museum of History and Science or the North Carolina Aquarium at Fort Fisher. For art, head to the Cameron Art Museum or Art in Bloom Gallery.

Fort Lauderdale does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Fort Lauderdale is great for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Wilmington is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its local cuisine and restaurants.

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in 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.

Visitors will find a budding food and restaurant scene in Wilmington. Head to the waterfront for local seafood restaurants that offer outdoor seating and fresh caught fish. There are also farm-to-table restaurants and local diners with casual food.

Is Fort Lauderdale or Wilmington Better for Nightlife?

Fort Lauderdale is great for nightlife. Also, Wilmington is not as popular, but is still a nice city for nightlife and partying.

Many people head to Fort Lauderdale for the nightlife scene. 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.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Wilmington. Live music is popular around town. There are also bars, lounges and dance clubs. When the weather is warm, many places make use of the outdoor setting, which makes for a relaxed and fun evening.

Is Fort Lauderdale or Wilmington Better for Resorts?

Fort Lauderdale is a must-visit destination for its luxury resorts. However, Wilmington 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.

Wilmington is not a resort destination.

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

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

Wilmington is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Fort Lauderdale or Wilmington Better for Beaches?

Fort Lauderdale is a must-visit destination for its beaches. Also, Wilmington is not as popular, but is still a nice city for the beach.

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.

The beaches at Wilmington attract visitors from all over. Nearby you'll find Wrightsville Beach, Kure Beach, and Carolina Beach. They have long stretches of sand and great waves. The water is usually warm enough for swimming between the months of April and October. During these peak months parking can be challenging, but during the quieter times, you shouldn't have trouble.

Is Fort Lauderdale or Wilmington Better for its Old Town?

Wilmington is a good destination for its historic old town. However, Fort Lauderdale does not have a historic old town.

Many visitors go to Wilmington to see the historical old town. The Historic District is along the waterfront and has 18th and 19th century architecture. There are also great restaurants and interesting shops.

Fort Lauderdale does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Fort Lauderdale or Wilmington?

Shopping is a popular activity in both Wilmington 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 Wilmington. Head downtown for the most interesting local shops. You'll find boutiques and souvenir shops where you can pick up art, accessories, or antiques.

Is Fort Lauderdale or Wilmington More Beautiful?

Fort Lauderdale is great for its scenery and beauty. However, Wilmington is not a destination known for its 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.

Wilmington is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Fort Lauderdale or Wilmington Better for Families?

Both Fort Lauderdale and Wilmington are great 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, Wilmington is very family-friendly. Near town you'll find several beaches - Wrightsville Beach, Kure Beach, and Carolina Beach. They're all family-friendly and perfect for a day's activity. The city also has the North Carolina Aquarium at Fort Fisher, the Children's Museum of Wilmington, and the Wilmington Railroad Museum. For a rainy day there are also indoor play areas and entertainment centers.

Is Fort Lauderdale or Wilmington Better for Couples?

Fort Lauderdale is a must-visit destination for romance. Also, Wilmington is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its romantic activities.

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.

Wilmington is a very popular place to visit for couples. The beaches are great for a relaxing day of swimming and sunbathing. In the evening head into town and enjoy one of the local seafood restaurants on the waterfront. You'll also find great shopping and historical sights in the area.

Is Fort Lauderdale or Wilmington Better for Students?

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

Wilmington is popular with students. The University of North Carolina at Wilmington is a popular school that brings many students to town.

Fort Lauderdale is not popular with students.

Is Fort Lauderdale or Wilmington 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 Wilmington.

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 Wilmington. There are public buses around town, but for practical reasons, you'll want to have your own vehicle.

Is Fort Lauderdale or Wilmington a more walkable city?

Fort Lauderdale is great for its walkability. Also, Wilmington is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its high level of walkability.

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

Wilmington is a somewhat walkable place. The Historic District is best explored on foot. You can also get around Wrightsville Beach on foot, but traveling between these places requires a car.

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

Should I spend more time in Wilmington or Fort Lauderdale?

How long in Fort Lauderdale or Wilmington?

In either Fort Lauderdale or Wilmington, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Fort Lauderdale than Wilmington because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Fort Lauderdale, and 2-5 days is enough time in Wilmington.

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

One day in Fort Lauderdale or Wilmington?

With shopping and nightlife around the spirited coastal city of Fort Lauderdale, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. One of the main draws to the area is the beaches. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

The charming destination of Wilmington offers nightlife and food. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting 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 Wilmington?

With nightlife and food around the destination of Fort Lauderdale, there's plenty to do. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. It offers something for everyone. One of the main draws to the area is the beaches. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything.

The city of Wilmington offers food and shopping. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. 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 Wilmington?

Fort Lauderdale, a popular coastal city, is full of activities for travelers. This is a popular place to visit for five days. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. In five days, you should have a good grasp of this coastal city. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Wilmington is a great place to explore. It's also a great beach destination, too. This city offers something for everyone. It is common to spend five days here. Five days is often enough time to do most activities.

A week in Fort Lauderdale or Wilmington?

Fort Lauderdale is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have one week, this coastal city makes for a great vacation. One of the main draws to the area is the beaches. One week should give you a good understanding of everything this coastal city has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Wilmington. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. 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 comparing the travel costs between Fort Lauderdale and Wilmington, we can see that Wilmington 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 Wilmington Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Fort Lauderdale or Wilmington?

Fort Lauderdale has a larger population, and is about 84% larger than the population of Wilmington. When comparing the sizes of Fort Lauderdale and Wilmington, 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 Wilmington?

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 Fort Lauderdale or Wilmington in the Summer?

Both Wilmington and Fort Lauderdale during the summer are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Fort Lauderdale in the summer for the beaches, snorkeling, and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, most visitors come to Wilmington for the beaches and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

Fort Lauderdale is around the same temperature as Wilmington in the summer. The daily temperature in Fort Lauderdale averages around 83°F (28°C) in July, and Wilmington fluctuates around 81°F (27°C).

In Wilmington, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Fort Lauderdale. In the summer, Fort Lauderdale often gets more sunshine than Wilmington. Fort Lauderdale gets 316 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Wilmington receives 283 hours of full sun.

Wilmington gets a good bit of rain this time of year. It rains a lot this time of the year in Fort Lauderdale. Fort Lauderdale usually gets less rain in July than Wilmington. Fort Lauderdale gets 5.9 inches (149 mm) of rain, while Wilmington receives 8.1 inches (207 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Fort Lauderdale or Wilmington in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Fort Lauderdale and Wilmington. Most visitors come to Fort Lauderdale for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area during these months. Furthermore, the autumn months attract visitors to Wilmington because of the shopping scene.

In the autumn, Fort Lauderdale is a little warmer than Wilmington. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Fort Lauderdale in October average around 78°F (26°C), and Wilmington averages at about 65°F (18°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Wilmington this time of the year. In Fort Lauderdale, it's very sunny this time of the year. Fort Lauderdale usually receives more sunshine than Wilmington during autumn. Fort Lauderdale gets 275 hours of sunny skies, while Wilmington receives 227 hours of full sun in the autumn.

Fort Lauderdale gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In October, Fort Lauderdale usually receives more rain than Wilmington. Fort Lauderdale gets 5.6 inches (143 mm) of rain, while Wilmington receives 2.7 inches (68 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Fort Lauderdale or Wilmington in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Fort Lauderdale as well as Wilmington. The winter months attract visitors to Fort Lauderdale because of the shopping scene and the cuisine. Additionally, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Wilmington this time of year.

In January, Fort Lauderdale is generally much warmer than Wilmington. Daily temperatures in Fort Lauderdale average around 67°F (20°C), and Wilmington fluctuates around 45°F (7°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Fort Lauderdale this time of the year. In the winter, Fort Lauderdale often gets more sunshine than Wilmington. Fort Lauderdale gets 243 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Wilmington receives 180 hours of full sun.

Fort Lauderdale usually gets less rain in January than Wilmington. Fort Lauderdale gets 2.2 inches (55 mm) of rain, while Wilmington receives 3.9 inches (98 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Fort Lauderdale or Wilmington in the Spring?

Both Wilmington and Fort Lauderdale are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The beaches and the natural beauty are the main draw to Fort Lauderdale this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Wilmington for the beaches.

Fort Lauderdale is a little warmer than Wilmington in the spring. The daily temperature in Fort Lauderdale averages around 75°F (24°C) in April, and Wilmington fluctuates around 63°F (17°C).

It's quite sunny in Wilmington. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Fort Lauderdale. Fort Lauderdale usually receives more sunshine than Wilmington during spring. Fort Lauderdale gets 300 hours of sunny skies, while Wilmington receives 278 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Fort Lauderdale usually receives around the same amount of rain as Wilmington. Fort Lauderdale gets 3.1 inches (78 mm) of rain, while Wilmington receives 2.9 inches (73 mm) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Wilmington and Fort Lauderdale