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

Should you visit Key West or Hood River?

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

Should I visit Key West or Hood River? 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 lively, quaint, and laid-back town. This is a charming small with plenty of activities, too. The beauty of Key West is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Because of its quaint atmosphere, it draws plenty of visitors, too. Visitors also love the food, scuba diving and snorkeling, and beaches. See Key West travel costs.

Hood River

Hood River is a charming, agricultural, and quaint town. The beauty of Hood River is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the food, hiking, and shopping. See Hood River travel costs.

Key West and Hood River: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Key West or Hood River?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Key West than Hood River, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Key West is better known for its nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, historical sights, small town charm, and quaint atmosphere, while Hood River is more popular for its skiing, museums and attractions, hiking, and shopping. Key West is more touristy than Hood River 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. Also, Key West is famous for Duval Street. Hood River is well known for its waterfalls, wineries, and impressive mountains.

How is Key West different from Hood River?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Key West or Hood River Better for Skiing?

Hood River is a popular place for snow skiing. However, Key West is not a skiing destination.

For winter sports and skiing, Hood River is a great destination to visit. During the winter months, Hood River makes a nice base for nearby skiing. Timberline and Cooper Spur and both less than an hour away and offer great skiing opportunities.

Key West is not a skiing destination.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Key West or Hood River?

Hood River is a moderate town for its sights and museums. However, Key West does not have museums and landmarks.

Hood River offers a handful of options for museums and historical sights. There are a couple of interesting museums in town such as the Western Antique Aeroplane and Automoblie Museum, the History Museum, and 301 Gallery.

Key West does not have museums and landmarks.

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

There are opportunities to sample the local cuisine at high quality restaurants in both Key West and Hood River.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Key West. 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.

Hood River has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. Head to the downtown or waterfront areas for the best selection of restaurants. Most restaurants pride themselves on using local ingredients and supporting local farms. Dishes use fresh and healthy ingredients that make simple but high quality meals.

Is Key West or Hood River Better for Nightlife?

Key West is a very popular place for nightlife and partying. Also, Hood River is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its evening party scene.

Key West has a large number of nightlife venues. 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.

Hood River has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. There are breweries, wineries, and local bars in the area that offer a laid back place where you can enjoy the local atmosphere.

Is Key West or Hood River Better for Resorts?

Key West is a very popular place for its luxury resorts. However, Hood River is not a resort destination.

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.

Hood River is not a resort destination.

Is Key West or Hood River Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Key West is a popular place for its diving and snorkeling. However, Hood River is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Key West has a few good snorkeling spots. 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.

Hood River is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Key West or Hood River Better for Beaches?

Key West is a very popular place for the beach. However, Hood River is not a beach destination.

Key West is considered a top beach destination. 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.

Hood River is not a beach destination.

Is Key West or Hood River Better for its Old Town?

Key West is a very popular place for its old town. However, Hood River does not have a historic old town.

Many visitors explore the old town while visiting 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.

Hood River does not have a historic old town.

Is Key West or Hood River Better for Hiking?

Hood River is notable for the nearby hiking options. However, Key West is not a hiking destination.

Hood River is a popular spot for hiking. There's a diversity of landscapes in the area that include waterfalls, agriculture, vineyards, and high-reaching mountain peaks. The best way to experience these is through the many hiking trails. Drive along the Historic Columbia River Highway and stop off at the trails that lead to the waterfalls, or head south of town to explore the vineyards on foot, and to the north where you'll find mountain peaks.

Key West is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Key West or Hood River?

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

Hood River offers some nice shopping areas. Local shops sell local produce, artisan crafts, and wine. There are boutiques and independent vendors that are fun to visit and many visitors enjoy spending an afternoon shopping.

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 Hood River More Beautiful?

Key West and Hood River are somewhat similar when it comes to the high quality scenery.

The beauty of Key West is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. There are blue waters as far as the eye can see. It doesn't get much more beautiful than this.

With stunning beauty, Hood River attracts visitors from all around. There's a beautiful natural environment with wonderful hikes and local farms and wineries.

Is Key West or Hood River Better for Families?

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Key West or Hood River.

Key West is a very kid-friendly town. 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.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Hood River. The area is filled with outdoor adventures that the whole family can enjoy. There's swimming, tubing, hiking, and even windsurfing. Make sure you check out the Waterfront Park and Powerdale Substation.

Is Key West or Hood River Better for Couples?

With fun activities for couples, both Key West and Hood River make for a high quality place to visit.

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

Hood River makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Couples will enjoy the scenic natural setting and charming hotels and bed and breakfasts in the area. There are romantic hikes, local wineries, and many great restaurants that you can try.

Is Key West or Hood River Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Hood River is notable for backpackers. However, Key West is a mediocre town for backpackers and budget travelers.

Hood River is a great town to visit for backpackers. There are a couple of hostels and some nice campgrounds in the area as well as many great hikes and a laid back atmosphere that backpackers appreciate.

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 Hood River Better for Students?

Key West is a very popular place for its student-friendly activities. However, Hood River is not popular with students.

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

Hood River is not popular with students.

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

Hood River is a moderate town for its public transit. However, Key West is a mediocre town for times when you don't have a car.

Public transit is generally limited in Hood River. There are buses in the area but you really need your own transportation to see the region efficiently.

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

Is Key West or Hood River a more walkable city?

Key West is a popular place for its high level of walkability. However, Hood River is lacking in good options for its ease of walking around.

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.

Hood River is generally not very walkable. While there are parts of the town that are walkable, if you don't have a car you'll miss out on the surrounding natural landscapes and most of the hiking opportunities.

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

Should I spend more time in Hood River or Key West?

How long in Key West or Hood River?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Key West and Hood River. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Key West than in Hood River. Usually, 5-7 days is a good amount of time for Key West, and 2-3 days is enough time in Hood River.

Families should spend more time in Key West than Hood River. 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 Hood River. 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 Hood River 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 Hood River.

One day in Key West or Hood River?

With scuba diving and snorkeling and nightlife around the lively town of Key West, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

The beautiful town of Hood River offers nightlife and food. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

A weekend in Key West or Hood River?

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

Hood River is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this town makes for a great vacation. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Hood River, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Key West or Hood River?

Key West, a popular town, is full of activities for travelers. This is a popular place to visit for five days. Visiting the old town is also a must. In five days, you should have a good grasp of this town. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Hood River 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 Hood River?

Key West is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have one week, this town makes for a great vacation. One week should give you a good understanding of everything this town has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Hood River is a great place to explore. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This town 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 Hood River, we can see that Key West is more expensive. And not only is Hood River much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Hood River would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Hood River 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 Hood River.

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 Hood River Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Key West or Hood River?

Key West has a larger population, and is about 4 times larger than the population of Hood River. When comparing the sizes of Key West and Hood River, 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 Hood River?

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 Hood River in the Summer?

Both Hood River and Key West during the summer are popular places to visit. The summer months attract visitors to Key West because of the beaches, snorkeling, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, the hiking and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Hood River this time of year.

Key West is a little warmer than Hood River in the summer. The daily temperature in Key West averages around 84°F (29°C) in July, and Hood River fluctuates around 68°F (20°C).

In Hood River, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Key West. In the summer, Key West often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Hood River. Key West gets 328 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Hood River receives 338 hours of full sun.

Key West usually gets more rain in July than Hood River. Key West gets 3.3 inches (83 mm) of rain, while Hood River receives 0.7 inches (18 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Key West or Hood River in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Key West and Hood River. The shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Key West this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Hood River for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Key West is much warmer than Hood River. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Key West in October average around 80°F (27°C), and Hood River averages at about 55°F (13°C).

In Key West, it's very sunny this time of the year. Key West usually receives more sunshine than Hood River during autumn. Key West gets 258 hours of sunny skies, while Hood River receives 155 hours of full sun in the autumn.

Key West gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In October, Key West usually receives more rain than Hood River. Key West gets 5.1 inches (129 mm) of rain, while Hood River receives 2.6 inches (67 mm) of rain each month for the autumn. June to November in Key West is the hurricane season.

Should I visit Key West or Hood River in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Key West as well as Hood River. Many travelers come to Key West for the shopping scene and the cuisine. Additionally, many visitors come to Hood River in the winter for the skiing, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Hood River can get quite cold in the winter. In January, Key West is generally much warmer than Hood River. Daily temperatures in Key West average around 70°F (21°C), and Hood River fluctuates around 40°F (4°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Key West this time of the year. In the winter, Key West often gets more sunshine than Hood River. Key West gets 252 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Hood River receives 86 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Hood River. Key West usually gets less rain in January than Hood River. Key West gets 1.7 inches (43 mm) of rain, while Hood River receives 5.2 inches (132 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Key West or Hood River in the Spring?

Both Hood River and Key West are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Key West in the spring for the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty. Also, most visitors come to Hood River for the natural beauty during these months.

Key West is much warmer than Hood River in the spring. The daily temperature in Key West averages around 77°F (25°C) in April, and Hood River fluctuates around 51°F (11°C).

It's quite sunny in Hood River. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Key West. Key West usually receives more sunshine than Hood River during spring. Key West gets 326 hours of sunny skies, while Hood River receives 231 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Key West usually receives less rain than Hood River. Key West gets 0.8 inches (21 mm) of rain, while Hood River receives 2.4 inches (61 mm) of rain each month for the spring. The hurricane season in Key West is June to November.

Typical Weather for Hood River and Key West