A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Key West vs. Charlotte for Food, Nightlife, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Key West or Charlotte?

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

Should I visit Key West or Charlotte? 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 laid-back, quirky, and eclectic town. With fun activities and sights, this is a small town worth visiting. With stunning beauty, Key West attracts visitors from all around. Since it has a quaint atmosphere, you'll want to spend time soaking it all in. It's also popular because of the beaches, nightlife, and food. See Key West travel costs.

Charlotte

Charlotte is a growing, evolving, and up-and-coming city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. And you can't forget about the nightlife, food, and shopping. See Charlotte travel costs.

Key West and Charlotte: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Key West or Charlotte?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Key West. Although Key West and Charlotte are both popular with visitors, Key West has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Key West is more popular for its food, nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, historical sights, small town charm, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere, while Charlotte is known for its museums and attractions, shopping, and big city activities. Key West is more touristy than Charlotte and is popular 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 home to Duval Street. Charlotte is popular for its banking industry and growing Uptown area.

How is Key West different from Charlotte?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Charlotte is a popular place for its sights and museums. However, Key West does not have museums and landmarks.

Charlotte offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. The Mint Museum is a popular place to visit, as is the Gantt Center for African American Arts. Art enthusiasts will appreciate a visit to the Bechtler Museum of Modern Art and sports enthusiasts will enjoy a stop at the NASCAR Hall of Fame.

Key West does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Key West is great for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Charlotte is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Key West has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. 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.

Charlotte offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. The food scene continues to grow and change around town. You'll find the latest trendy restaurant changes regularly, but dishes often include upscale southern faire or classic American. There are also many international restaurants, particularly Mexican, Thai, and Chinese.

Is Key West or Charlotte Better for Nightlife?

Key West is great for its evening party scene. Also, Charlotte is not as popular, but is still a nice city for nightlife.

Many people head to Key West for the nightlife scene. 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.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Charlotte. Head Uptown for some of the best nightlife. The city has many bars and clubs that keep things fun late into the night.

Is Key West or Charlotte Better for Resorts?

Key West is great for its luxury resorts. However, Charlotte is not a resort destination.

Vacationers can choose from a number of terrific resorts in Key West. 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.

Charlotte is not a resort destination.

Is Key West or Charlotte Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Key West is very good for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Charlotte is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

It's worth going snorkeling or scuba diving 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.

Charlotte is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Key West or Charlotte Better for Beaches?

Key West is great for the beach. However, Charlotte is not a beach destination.

Key West is a very popular place to visit for its 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.

Charlotte is not a beach destination.

Is Key West or Charlotte Better for its Old Town?

Key West is great for its historic old town charm. However, Charlotte does not have a historic old town.

There is a nice variety of sights 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.

Charlotte does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Key West or Charlotte?

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

Charlotte offers some nice shopping areas. Shopping malls such as SouthPark Mall or Carolina Place offer all of the standard retailers. Concord Mills is another favorite mall in the area. Aside from the malls, there is no shortage of shopping centers around town.

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 Charlotte More Beautiful?

Key West is great for its scenery and beauty. However, Charlotte is not a destination known for its beauty.

With stunning beauty, Key West attracts visitors from all around. There are blue waters as far as the eye can see. It doesn't get much more beautiful than this.

Charlotte is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Key West or Charlotte Better for Families?

Key West is great for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Charlotte is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its family-friendly activities.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Key West. 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.

Charlotte is a family-friendly place to visit. There are a number of museums for kids, with one of the best being Discovery Place. It has many hands-on science based exhibits that kids will love. Another unique experience is a visit to the U.S. National Whitewater Center. Carowinds Amusement Park is also in the area as are many great parks, playgrounds, and natural areas.

Is Key West or Charlotte Better for Couples?

Key West is great for couples. Also, Charlotte is not as popular, but is still a nice city for romance.

Key West is a great town if you're traveling as a couple. 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.

Charlotte is a nice destination for couples. There are a number of date night activities around town, particularly Uptown. You can see a show or concert at the Blumenthal Performing Arts Center or hit up one of the trendy bars or restaurants. There are also sporting events and other festivals that are fun to experience.

Is Key West or Charlotte Better for Students?

Key West is great for its student-friendly activities. Also, Charlotte is not as popular, but is still a nice city for students.

Key West is very popular with students. It's a great spring break destination with a quirky personality and many great activities.

Charlotte is a good town to visit for students. There are a number of smaller colleges in town, but the biggest university is the University of North Carolina at Charlotte.

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

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

Charlotte has a few public transit options. There's a light rail system as well as buses that travel around town.

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

Is Key West or Charlotte a more walkable city?

Key West and Charlotte both are good when exploring on foot.

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

Charlotte is a somewhat walkable town. The Uptown area is the most walkable part of the city.

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

Should I spend more time in Charlotte or Key West?

How long in Key West or Charlotte?

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

Families should spend more time in Key West than Charlotte. 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 Charlotte. 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 Key West than Charlotte 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 Key West.

One day in Key West or Charlotte?

You'll find food and scuba diving and snorkeling around the quaint town of Key West. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

The city of Charlotte offers food and shopping. 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 Charlotte?

You'll find scuba diving and snorkeling and nightlife around the eclectic destination of Key West. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Charlotte 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. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Charlotte, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Key West or Charlotte?

You'll find nightlife and food around the active town of Key West. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this town makes for a great vacation. It's also a relaxing resort destination. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this town has to offer.

Charlotte is a popular choice for travelers. 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 Charlotte?

Key West is a popular choice for travelers. One week here is typical. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Key West, one week is sufficent for most. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Charlotte is a great place to explore. 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 Charlotte, we can see that Key West is more expensive. And not only is Charlotte much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Charlotte would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Charlotte 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 Charlotte.

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 Charlotte Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Key West or Charlotte?

Charlotte has a larger population, and is about 20 times larger than the population of Key West. When comparing the sizes of Key West and Charlotte, 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 Charlotte?

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 Key West or Charlotte in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Key West as well as Charlotte. The beaches, snorkeling, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Key West this time of year. Additionally, many travelers come to Charlotte for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Key West is around the same temperature as Charlotte. Typically, the summer temperatures in Key West in July average around 84°F (29°C), and Charlotte averages at about 81°F (27°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Charlotte. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Key West this time of the year. In the summer, Key West often gets more sunshine than Charlotte. Key West gets 328 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Charlotte receives 289 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Charlotte. Key West usually gets less rain in July than Charlotte. Key West gets 3.3 inches (83 mm) of rain, while Charlotte receives 4.6 inches (116 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Key West or Charlotte in the Autumn?

Both Charlotte and Key West are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Key West for the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, many visitors come to Charlotte in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene.

In October, Key West is generally much warmer than Charlotte. Daily temperatures in Key West average around 80°F (27°C), and Charlotte fluctuates around 63°F (17°C).

It's quite sunny in Charlotte. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Key West. Key West usually receives more sunshine than Charlotte during autumn. Key West gets 258 hours of sunny skies, while Charlotte receives 223 hours of full sun in the autumn.

It's quite rainy in Key West. In October, Key West usually receives more rain than Charlotte. Key West gets 5.1 inches (129 mm) of rain, while Charlotte receives 2.7 inches (68 mm) of rain each month for the autumn. June to November is the hurricane season in Key West.

Should I visit Key West or Charlotte in the Winter?

Both Charlotte and Key West during the winter are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Key West in the winter for the shopping scene and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Charlotte for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Key West is much warmer than Charlotte in the winter. The daily temperature in Key West averages around 70°F (21°C) in January, and Charlotte fluctuates around 42°F (6°C).

It's quite sunny in Key West. In the winter, Key West often gets more sunshine than Charlotte. Key West gets 252 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Charlotte receives 173 hours of full sun.

Key West usually gets less rain in January than Charlotte. Key West gets 1.7 inches (43 mm) of rain, while Charlotte receives 3.5 inches (89 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Key West or Charlotte in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Key West and Charlotte. Most visitors come to Key West for the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty during these months. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Charlotte because of the activities around the city.

In the spring, Key West is a little warmer than Charlotte. Typically, the spring temperatures in Key West in April average around 77°F (25°C), and Charlotte averages at about 63°F (17°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Charlotte this time of the year. In Key West, it's very sunny this time of the year. Key West usually receives more sunshine than Charlotte during spring. Key West gets 326 hours of sunny skies, while Charlotte receives 273 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Key West usually receives less rain than Charlotte. Key West gets 0.8 inches (21 mm) of rain, while Charlotte receives 3.4 inches (86 mm) of rain each month for the spring. June to November in Key West is the hurricane season.

Typical Weather for Charlotte and Key West