A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Key West vs. Atlantic City for Nightlife, Food, Resorts, and Beaches

Should you visit Key West or Atlantic City?

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

Should I visit Key West or Atlantic City? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

Key West

Key West is a active, lively, and quaint town. Don't miss this spot, as it's a charming small town with plenty of activities. Key West is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. With a quaint atmosphere, it also offers a unique feeling. It's also known for scuba diving and snorkeling, beaches, and nightlife. See Key West travel costs.

Atlantic City

Atlantic City is a glitzy, flashy, and party-oriented city. And you can't forget about the nightlife, food, and beaches. See Atlantic City travel costs.

Key West and Atlantic City: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Key West or Atlantic City?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Key West. Although Key West and Atlantic City are popular destinations, Key West has more sights and attractions for tourists. Key West is very popular for its food, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, historical sights, small town charm, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere, while Atlantic City attracts visitors for its museums and attractions, nightlife, and shopping. Key West is famous for its festive nightlife, quirky town center, colorful personality, adrenaline-filled watersports, stunning beaches, turquoise water, and location at the southernmost point of the continental U.S. It is also well known for Duval Street. Atlantic City is famous for its casinos, gambling culture, nightlife scene, and wild personality

How is Key West different from Atlantic City?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Key West or Atlantic City?

Atlantic City is a moderate city for its sights and museums. However, Key West does not have museums and landmarks.

Atlantic City offers a handful of options for museums and historical sights. While most people don't spend their time in museums, there is the Marine Mammal Stranding Center, the African American Heritage Museum, and the Noyes Museum Galleries.

Key West does not have museums and landmarks.

Is the Food Better in Key West or Atlantic City? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Key West is well known for its restaurant scene. Also, Atlantic City is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Key West makes for a great culinary experience. Head to town for local restaurants with quirky atmospheres. There are many local dishes to sample, but the town is most known for its stone crabs, conch fritters, and Mahi Mahi sandwiches. You'll also find cold drinks and waterfront dining areas.

Atlantic City has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. There are budget buffets around town as well as seafood restaurants and even some fine dining. Salt water taffy is a local specialty that you should pick up while you're in the area.

Is Key West or Atlantic City Better for Nightlife?

Atlantic City is renowned for nightlife and partying. Also, Key West is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its evening party scene.

Atlantic City is a destination that you simply have to visit at least once for nightlife. This is a city that is all about its nightlife scene. Many visitors come here just to party, and you'll find clubs with DJs or bands playing from sunset to sunrise. There are glitzy lounges and dive bars with everything in between. As a gambling town, there are casinos and all-night activities that keep the energy going round the clock.

Key West has a lively atmosphere and nightlife is popular here. This area has some of the most lively nightlife in the Florida Keys. There are quirky bars and fun hangouts where you can spend the evening. The party starts at Mallory Square around sunset and many bars stay open well into the early hours. You can also enjoy sunset cruises or pass your time at one of the many tiki bars.

Is Key West or Atlantic City Better for Resorts?

Key West and Atlantic City offer a relatively similar set of superb luxury resort options.

Key West is known as a popular and fun resort destination. There are a number of high end resorts around the island, many with recognizable names such as the Hyatt and Hilton. Prices can be high, but these resorts often come with reliable luxury.

Vacationers can choose from a number of terrific resorts in Atlantic City. The beach and boardwalk are lined with casinos and resorts. There are many recognizable names such as Harrah's, Bally's, Caesars, Hard Rock, and the Tropicana.

Is Key West or Atlantic City Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Key West is a good destination for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Atlantic City is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Grab a mask and fins and explore the underwater scenery in Key West. There are a number of dive shops and snorkeling excursions that leave from Key West. Like many tourist areas these days, the coral shows its damage from the crowds, but you'll likely see some barracuda or a Grouper.

Atlantic City is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Key West or Atlantic City Better for Beaches?

Key West is well known for its beaches. Also, Atlantic City is still popular, but not quite as popular for the beach.

Many people visit Key West for it's beautiful beaches. One of the best beaches in the area is Fort Zachary Taylor Historic State Park. The beach has soft sand and stunning turquoise water. As is typical in the Keys, the water stays shallow for great distances.

Atlantic City is a good option for a beach vacation. There's a Boardwalk that runs along the beach and is lined with piers and hotels. The Downtown Beach is the most accessible, and where most tourists hang out. If you're willing to travel a little further, there are some nice beaches nearby such as Margate Beach and Brigantine Beach.

Is Key West or Atlantic City Better for its Old Town?

Key West is well known for its historic old town. However, Atlantic City does not have a historic old town.

There are many historical things to see in the old town of Key West. The town has the most charming Old Town areas in the Florida Keys. Head to Mallory Square for the sunset street performers and explore the historic streets around Duval Street.

Atlantic City does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Key West or Atlantic City?

Atlantic City is a popular place for its shopping opportunities. However, Key West is a mediocre town for its shopping areas.

Atlantic City offers some nice shopping areas. You'll find many souvenir shops along the boardwalk. There's also a Tangier Outlet Mall in the area. Some of the hotels such as the Tropicana have their own shopping areas as well.

Key West has some good spots for those that want to go shopping. While it definitely has its share of gimmicky souvenir shops and t-shirt stores, there are still a number of art galleries and local shops around Key West where you can enjoy shopping.

Is Key West or Atlantic City More Beautiful?

Key West is well known for its scenery and beauty. However, Atlantic City is not a destination known for its beauty.

Key West is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. There are blue waters as far as the eye can see. It doesn't get much more beautiful than this.

Atlantic City is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Key West or Atlantic City Better for Families?

Key West is well known for its family-friendly activities. However, Atlantic City is not particularly known for its kid-friendly activities.

Key West is a very family-friendly place to visit. Families that enjoy snorkeling, aquariums, water sports, and exploring new places will enjoy visiting this part of the Florida Keys. There are many ways to get out on the water from kayaking and snorkeling to glass bottom boat tours and sunset cruises. There are also many kid-friendly beaches in the area. The town can have a party atmosphere, but it's not hard to find a more family-friendly area where everyone can have fun.

For families, Atlantic City is not always the best place to visit. Most families avoid this area for more family-friendly beaches, but if you find yourself in the area, you can check out Ripley's Believe It or Not or go on a dolphin cruise. Also popular is Steel Pier, which has rides for all ages.

Is Key West or Atlantic City Better for Couples?

Key West is well known for romance. Also, Atlantic City is still popular, but not quite as popular for its romantic activities.

Couples visit Key West frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. From Mallory Square to the beautiful nearby parks, Key West makes a wonderful, romantic destination. Whether it's your honeymoon, an anniversary, or simply a couples' retreat, Key West is a great option. You can sip wine on a sunset cruise or dine at one of the many character-filled restaurants in town. If you are looking for a party, it's not hard to find, but if you want a more laid back holiday, that's also possible.

Atlantic City makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. It's not exactly known for its romance, but there are casinos, hotels, and a beaches that are fun to visit. You'll also find several spas and sunset cruises in the area.

Is Key West or Atlantic City Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Atlantic City is a popular place for backpackers. However, Key West is a mediocre town for backpackers and budget travelers.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Atlantic City. There is a hostel in the area. You'll also find a younger crowd and plenty of partying.

Key West is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. Key West is a pretty expensive destination, but there are Airbnbs and even a hostel or two that cater to budget backpackers.

Is Key West or Atlantic City Better for Students?

Key West is well known for students. However, Atlantic City is not popular with students.

Many students visit Key West. It's a great spring break destination with a quirky personality and many great activities.

Atlantic City is not popular with students.

Is Key West or Atlantic City Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Atlantic City is a popular place for its public transit. However, Key West is a mediocre town for times when you don't have a car.

Atlantic City has a few public transit options. The Jitney are shuttle buses that runs from one end of the city to the other. They pass by most of the hotels and casinos along Pacific Avenue.

Public transit is quite limited in Key West. Public transportation in Key West is limited to a few buses.

Is Key West or Atlantic City a more walkable city?

Atlantic City is notable for its high level of walkability. Also, Key West is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its ease of walking around.

Atlantic City is a very walkable city. Many of the hotels are walkable and located near the boardwalk.

Key West is a somewhat walkable town. The town is the most walkable part of the Florida Keys. The area around Mallory Square and Duval Street is the most pedestrian friendly.

For even more information, also check out Is Key West Worth Visiting? and Is Atlantic City Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Atlantic City or Key West?

How long in Key West or Atlantic City?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Key West and Atlantic City. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Key West than in Atlantic City. Usually, 5-7 days is a good amount of time for Key West, and 1-3 days is enough time in Atlantic City.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Atlantic City than Key West 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 Atlantic City.

One day in Key West or Atlantic City?

Many travelers enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and nightlife when visiting the lively destination of Key West. It's also a relaxing resort destination. 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 city of Atlantic City offers nightlife and food. It's also a relaxing resort destination. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one day here. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

A weekend in Key West or Atlantic City?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Key West. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. 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.

Atlantic City is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this city makes for a great vacation. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Atlantic City, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Key West or Atlantic City?

Many travelers enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling when visiting the eclectic destination of Key West. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. This town 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.

Atlantic City is a popular choice for travelers. It's no surprise that nightlife is why people visit. Five days is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A week in Key West or Atlantic City?

Many travelers enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and nightlife when visiting the beautiful town of Key West. 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.

Atlantic City is a great place to explore. It's no surprise that nightlife is why people visit. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This city offers something for everyone.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Train & Rail Tours in United States of America, The Best Sightseeing Tours in United States of America, The Best Cruise Tours and Packages in United States of America, and The Best Cultural Tours in United States of America.

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

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Key West Expensive? and Is Atlantic City Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Key West or Atlantic City?

Atlantic City has a larger population, and is about 65% larger than the population of Key West. When comparing the sizes of Key West and Atlantic City, 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 Key West or Atlantic City?

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 Key West or Atlantic City in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Key West and Atlantic City. Most visitors come to Key West for the beaches, snorkeling, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Furthermore, the summer months attract visitors to Atlantic City because of the beaches and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Key West is generally a little warmer than Atlantic City. Daily temperatures in Key West average around 84°F (29°C), and Atlantic City fluctuates around 75°F (24°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Atlantic City this time of the year. In Key West, it's very sunny this time of the year. Key West usually receives more sunshine than Atlantic City during summer. Key West gets 328 hours of sunny skies, while Atlantic City receives 273 hours of full sun in the summer.

Atlantic City receives a lot of rain in the summer. In July, Key West usually receives less rain than Atlantic City. Key West gets 3.3 inches (83 mm) of rain, while Atlantic City receives 4.4 inches (112 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Key West or Atlantic City in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Key West as well as Atlantic City. The autumn months attract visitors to Key West because of the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area. Additionally, the shopping scene are the main draw to Atlantic City this time of year.

Key West is much warmer than Atlantic City in the autumn. The daily temperature in Key West averages around 80°F (27°C) in October, and Atlantic City fluctuates around 56°F (13°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Key West this time of the year. In the autumn, Key West often gets more sunshine than Atlantic City. Key West gets 258 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Atlantic City receives 197 hours of full sun.

Key West receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Key West usually gets more rain in October than Atlantic City. Key West gets 5.1 inches (129 mm) of rain, while Atlantic City receives 2.6 inches (67 mm) of rain this time of the year. Keep in mind that June to November is the hurricane season in Key West.

Should I visit Key West or Atlantic City in the Winter?

Both Atlantic City and Key West are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The shopping scene and the cuisine are the main draw to Key West this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Atlantic City for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Atlantic City. In the winter, Key West is much warmer than Atlantic City. Typically, the winter temperatures in Key West in January average around 70°F (21°C), and Atlantic City averages at about 31°F (-0°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Key West. Key West usually receives more sunshine than Atlantic City during winter. Key West gets 252 hours of sunny skies, while Atlantic City receives 146 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Key West usually receives less rain than Atlantic City. Key West gets 1.7 inches (43 mm) of rain, while Atlantic City receives 3.4 inches (87 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Key West or Atlantic City in the Spring?

Both Atlantic City and Key West during the spring are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Key West for the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty. Also, many visitors come to Atlantic City in the spring for the beaches.

In April, Key West is generally much warmer than Atlantic City. Daily temperatures in Key West average around 77°F (25°C), and Atlantic City fluctuates around 51°F (10°C).

In Atlantic City, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Key West. In the spring, Key West often gets more sunshine than Atlantic City. Key West gets 326 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Atlantic City receives 217 hours of full sun.

Key West usually gets less rain in April than Atlantic City. Key West gets 0.8 inches (21 mm) of rain, while Atlantic City receives 3.2 inches (82 mm) of rain this time of the year. Also, June to November in Key West is the hurricane season.

Typical Weather for Atlantic City and Key West