A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Islamorada vs. Roanoke for Families, Couples, Food, and Attractions

Should you visit Islamorada or Roanoke?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Islamorada or Roanoke, this travel comparison, which includes costs, can help. The overall cost of travel is usually a consideration when deciding where to go next, and the cost comparison down below can help you decide based on the average prices from other travelers along with your own travel budget.

Islamorada

Islamorada is a tropical, adventurous, and relaxing village. With stunning beauty, Islamorada attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food. See Islamorada travel costs.

Roanoke

Roanoke is a outdoorsy, laid back, and scenic town. Other reasons to visit include museums, nightlife, and hiking. See Roanoke travel costs.

Islamorada and Roanoke: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Islamorada or Roanoke?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Islamorada than Roanoke, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Islamorada is better known for its food, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and impressive beauty, while Roanoke is more popular for its hiking. Islamorada is more touristy than Roanoke and is known for its sportfishing, state parks, and local vibe. Also, Islamorada is famous for Theater of the Sea. Roanoke is well known for its welcoming hospitality and convenient access to the Blue Ridge Mountains.

How is Islamorada different from Roanoke?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Islamorada or Roanoke?

Spend time exploring the notable sights and museums in either Islamorada or Roanoke.

Islamorada is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. There are a variety of museums and aquariums in the area such as the History of Diving Museum, the Keys History and Discovery Center, and the famous Theater of the Sea.

Roanoke offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. There are several museums and sights around town such as the Living-Coral Reef Aquarium, the Science Museum of Western Virginia, and the Taubman Museum of Art. There's also the Harrison Museum of African American Culture and even the Roanoke Pinball Museum.

Is the Food Better in Islamorada or Roanoke? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Islamorada is a great village for its local flavors and cuisine. However, Roanoke is not known for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Islamorada has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. Has a sports fishing destination, you'll find no shortage of seafood options in the area. There are cafes and bistros that have an old school Florida Key's atmosphere. Popular dishes include grilled fish and curry seafood.

Roanoke offers some easy restaurants to choose from. There are burger joints, pizza restaurants, and plenty of other casual eateries where you can grab a quick meal.

Is Islamorada or Roanoke Better for Nightlife?

If the nightlife is your priority, you'll find notable options in both Islamorada and Roanoke.

If you're looking for night time activities Islamorada has a few options to choose from. The nightlife consists of mostly bars and restaurants that serve cocktails and frozen drinks. There are sports bars and casual eateries where you can enjoy a drink in a relaxed atmosphere.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Roanoke. There are local venues in the area that have drinks and often live music. You'll find jazz, country, rock, and bluegrass, particularly along Crooked Road in Franklin County.

Is Islamorada or Roanoke Better for Resorts?

Islamorada is a popular place for its luxury resorts. However, Roanoke is not a resort destination.

Islamorada has a few great resort options. You'll find plenty of resorts with spas, pools or oceanfront views in the area.

Roanoke is not a resort destination.

Is Islamorada or Roanoke Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Islamorada is a popular place for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Roanoke is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Islamorada has a few good snorkeling spots. There are plenty of dive shops that offer snorkeling and dive trips to the surrounding areas. You could also grab a mask and head out into the water on your own. You're sure to see some beautiful marine life.

Roanoke is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Islamorada or Roanoke Better for Beaches?

Islamorada is a great village for the beach. However, Roanoke is not a beach destination.

Islamorada is considered a top beach destination. Blue water and white sand make the beaches a true paradise. Favorite beaches in the area include Anne's Beach, which has a boardwalk and mangroves, Library Beach, which is small and well maintained, Holiday Isle Beach, which is near the hotels and restaurants, and Long Key State Park, which has camping and picnic spots.

Roanoke is not a beach destination.

Is Islamorada or Roanoke Better for Hiking?

Roanoke is a great town for hiking. However, Islamorada is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors go to Roanoke for the hiking trails. The surrounding countryside is filled with mountain hikes. The Blue Ridge Mountains are crossed by trails that take you to waterfalls, scenic viewpoints, and through serene forest. McAfee Knob, Sharp Top Mountain, and Roaring Run Trail some of the best hikes in the area.

Islamorada is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Islamorada or Roanoke?

If you're looking to go shopping, Islamorada and Roanoke both offer plenty of notable spots.

Plenty of visitors enjoy shopping while in Islamorada. You'll find a few jewelry boutiques as well as sporting goods shops and souvenir stands.

Roanoke offers some nice shopping areas. Market Street in Downtown Roanoke is lined with local vendors, particularly at the Historic Roanoke City Market. The town also has a mall and several shopping centers.

Is Islamorada or Roanoke More Beautiful?

Islamorada is a great village for its scenery and beauty. However, Roanoke is not a destination known for its beauty.

With stunning beauty, Islamorada attracts visitors from all around. Striking blue water and white sand make this a truly tropical paradise. You can sip frozen drinks and relax in the sun as your troubles slip away.

Roanoke is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Islamorada or Roanoke Better for Families?

Islamorada is renowned for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Roanoke is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its family-friendly activities.

As it has a large number of activities for kids, Islamorada is a very family-friendly destination. Theater of the Sea is a highlight for kids and adults alike. You'll have the opportunity to interact with many types of sea life including dolphins, sea lions, and even sharks. Founders Park is another great place to take the kids. You can have a picnic, hang out at the beach, or hit up the playground. There's also plenty of snorkeling and diving in the area, particularly around Alligator Reef Lighthouse.

Roanoke is a family-friendly place to visit. The Blue Ridge Parkway is filled with kid-friendly hiking trails and fun outdoor activities. You can visit the Blue Ridge Institute & Farm Museum or Smith Mountain Lake Farm. There's also Virginia Children's Theater.

Is Islamorada or Roanoke Better for Couples?

Islamorada is renowned for couples. Also, Roanoke is not as popular, but is still a nice town for romance.

Islamorada makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. Couples will enjoy the resorts, spas, beaches, and adventures in the area. Head to Little Palm Spa for a little relaxation or hit up Florida Keys Brewing Company for some live music. There's also snorkeling, diving, and some good restaurants nearby as well.

Roanoke is a very popular place to visit for couples. Staying at a quaint bed and breakfast, tucked into the beautiful mountain setting is the perfect romantic getaway. Nearby there are vineyards and wine cellars, as well as gardens, hikes, and other outdoor activities.

Is Islamorada or Roanoke Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Roanoke is a nice place to visit for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Islamorada is not known for backpackers.

It's common for backpackers to visit Roanoke. There are several campgrounds in the area as well as great hiking trails.

Islamorada is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. There aren't any real hostels on this key and prices in general can be a bit high so backpackers will find it a bit challenging.

Is Islamorada or Roanoke Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Roanoke is adequate for times when you don't have a car. However, Islamorada is not known for its public transit.

Public transit is mostly limited in Roanoke. There are buses as well as a free trolley service through the downtown, but you really do need a car to get most places.

Public transit is limited or non-existant in Islamorada. There's no real public transit in the area and you must have your own vehicle.

Is Islamorada or Roanoke a more walkable city?

Roanoke is adequate for its walkability. However, Islamorada is not known for its high level of walkability.

Roanoke is generally not a very walkable town. The downtown area is the most walkable part of town, with sidewalks and more dense development styles.

Islamorada is not a walkable village. Like the rest of the Florida Keys, it's not very walkable and you'll need a car to get around.

For even more information, also check out Is Islamorada Worth Visiting? and Is Roanoke Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Roanoke or Islamorada?

How long in Islamorada or Roanoke?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Islamorada and Roanoke. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Islamorada than in Roanoke. Usually, 4-7 days is a good amount of time for Islamorada, and 1-3 days is enough time in Roanoke.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Roanoke than Islamorada 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 Roanoke.

One day in Islamorada or Roanoke?

In Islamorada, you'll find shopping and museums. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. This village offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

With museums and nightlife around the scenic town of Roanoke, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Roanoke, one day is sufficent for most.

A weekend in Islamorada or Roanoke?

In Islamorada, you'll find museums and nightlife. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Most people come for the beaches. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

With nightlife and shopping around the destination of Roanoke, there's plenty to do. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. It offers something for everyone. Many people spend a weekend here. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this town.

Five days in Islamorada or Roanoke?

Islamorada is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Islamorada has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

Roanoke, a popular town, is full of activities for travelers. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

A week in Islamorada or Roanoke?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Islamorada. In Islamorada, you'll find food and scuba diving and snorkeling. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one week here.

Roanoke is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Polar Tours & Cruises in United States of America, The Best Walking Tours in United States of America, The Best Northern Lights Tours in Alaska, and The Best Tours Under $1000 in United States of America.

When comparing the travel costs between Islamorada and Roanoke, we can see that Roanoke 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 Islamorada Expensive? and Is Roanoke Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Islamorada or Roanoke?

Roanoke has a larger population, and is about 10 times larger than the population of Islamorada. When comparing the sizes of Islamorada and Roanoke, 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 Islamorada or Roanoke?

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 Islamorada or Roanoke in the Summer?

Both Roanoke and Islamorada are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Islamorada in the summer for the beaches, snorkeling, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Roanoke for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In July, Islamorada is generally a little warmer than Roanoke. Daily temperatures in Islamorada average around 84°F (29°C), and Roanoke fluctuates around 79°F (26°C).

It's quite sunny in Roanoke. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Islamorada. Islamorada usually receives more sunshine than Roanoke during summer. Islamorada gets 328 hours of sunny skies, while Roanoke receives 273 hours of full sun in the summer.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Roanoke. In July, Islamorada usually receives less rain than Roanoke. Islamorada gets 3.3 inches (83 mm) of rain, while Roanoke receives 4.2 inches (106 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Islamorada or Roanoke in the Autumn?

Both Roanoke and Islamorada during the autumn are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Islamorada for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area during these months. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Roanoke because of the hiking trails and the shopping scene.

Islamorada is much warmer than Roanoke in the autumn. The daily temperature in Islamorada averages around 80°F (27°C) in October, and Roanoke fluctuates around 60°F (16°C).

In Roanoke, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Islamorada. In the autumn, Islamorada often gets more sunshine than Roanoke. Islamorada gets 258 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Roanoke receives 210 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Islamorada. Islamorada usually gets more rain in October than Roanoke. Islamorada gets 5.1 inches (129 mm) of rain, while Roanoke receives 3.7 inches (94 mm) of rain this time of the year. Keep in mind that June to November is the hurricane season in Islamorada.

Should I visit Islamorada or Roanoke in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Islamorada and Roanoke. The winter months attract visitors to Islamorada because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Roanoke this time of year.

It's quite cold in Roanoke in the winter. In the winter, Islamorada is much warmer than Roanoke. Typically, the winter temperatures in Islamorada in January average around 70°F (21°C), and Roanoke averages at about 38°F (3°C).

In Islamorada, it's very sunny this time of the year. Islamorada usually receives more sunshine than Roanoke during winter. Islamorada gets 252 hours of sunny skies, while Roanoke receives 165 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Islamorada usually receives less rain than Roanoke. Islamorada gets 1.7 inches (43 mm) of rain, while Roanoke receives 2.9 inches (73 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Islamorada or Roanoke in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Islamorada as well as Roanoke. The beaches and the natural beauty are the main draw to Islamorada this time of year.

In April, Islamorada is generally much warmer than Roanoke. Daily temperatures in Islamorada average around 77°F (25°C), and Roanoke fluctuates around 59°F (15°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Roanoke. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Islamorada this time of the year. In the spring, Islamorada often gets more sunshine than Roanoke. Islamorada gets 326 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Roanoke receives 246 hours of full sun.

Islamorada usually gets less rain in April than Roanoke. Islamorada gets 0.8 inches (21 mm) of rain, while Roanoke receives 3.1 inches (79 mm) of rain this time of the year. Also, June to November in Islamorada is the hurricane season.

Typical Weather for Roanoke and Islamorada