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

Should you visit Key West or Lancaster?

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

Should I visit Key West or Lancaster? 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 eclectic, bustling, and active 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.

Lancaster

Lancaster is a traditional, picturesque, and scenic town. The beauty of Lancaster is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and food. See Lancaster travel costs.

Key West and Lancaster: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Key West or Lancaster?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Key West. Although Key West and Lancaster are both popular with visitors, Key West has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Key West is more popular for its nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, historical sights, small town charm, and quaint atmosphere, while Lancaster is known for its museums and attractions and shopping. Key West is more touristy than Lancaster 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. Lancaster is popular for its history and long running Amish community.

How is Key West different from Lancaster?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Lancaster is notable for its sights and museums. However, Key West does not have museums and landmarks.

Lancaster offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. Filled with history and local culture, there are many educational opportunities in the area where you can learn about Amish traditions. The Amish Village has tours and unique experiences. The town also has James Buchanan's Wheatland, the Railroad Museum of Pennsylvania, the National Toy Train Museum, the Ephrata Cloister, and the National Watch & Clock Museum, among many others.

Key West does not have museums and landmarks.

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

There are opportunities to sample the local cuisine at very good restaurants in both Key West and Lancaster.

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.

Lancaster has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. You can sample authentic Pennsylvania Dutch dishes at one of the Amish restaurants in the area. Many places serve food family-style and dishes include chicken pot pie, ham balls, and pork and sauerkraut. Whoopie pies also originated in the area.

Is Key West or Lancaster Better for Nightlife?

Key West is a great town for its evening party scene. However, Lancaster is not known for nightlife.

The nightlife in Key West has something for everybody. 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.

Most people don't head to Lancaster specifically for the nightlife scene, but you can find a few options. It's a small town, but you'll still find local pubs and cozy bars where you can enjoy a drink in a laid back atmosphere.

Is Key West or Lancaster Better for Resorts?

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

Key West is a popular resort destination that attracts visitors from everywhere. 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.

Lancaster is not a resort destination.

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

Key West is a nice place to visit for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Lancaster is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Key West has a few areas where visitors often go scuba diving or snorkeling. 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.

Lancaster is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Key West or Lancaster Better for Beaches?

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

You'll have a great beach vacation in Key West. 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.

Lancaster is not a beach destination.

Is Key West or Lancaster Better for its Old Town?

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

Many visitors go to Key West to see the historical old town. 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.

Lancaster does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Key West or Lancaster?

Lancaster is notable for its shopping opportunities. However, Key West is a mediocre town for its shopping areas.

Lancaster is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. Many visitors pick up hand-crafted Amish items while they're in town. Furniture and Amish quilts are particularly popular. Farmers markets and antique shopping are both unique in the area and there are also art galleries and several outlet stores that you can visit.

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 Lancaster More Beautiful?

Key West and Lancaster are somewhat similar when it comes to the very good 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, Lancaster attracts visitors from all around. The countryside is beautiful, with preserved farmland, covered bridges, and beautiful gardens.

Is Key West or Lancaster Better for Families?

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Key West or Lancaster.

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 Lancaster. In you area you'll find farms and petting zoos, amusement parks, and train rides. They can learn about a unique lifestyle at the Amish Experience or soak up the local beauty and farmland in the surrounding countryside.

Is Key West or Lancaster Better for Couples?

With fun activities for couples, both Key West and Lancaster make for a very good 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.

Lancaster makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. This region is known for it's local beauty and serene farmland, making it a relaxing and peaceful destination for couples. There are walking trails, outdoor activities, buggy rides, and a variety of dining experiences. You can also stay at a bed and breakfast or local inn.

Is Key West or Lancaster Better for Students?

Key West is a great town for its student-friendly activities. However, Lancaster is not popular with students.

Key West is a great town to visit as a student. It's a great spring break destination with a quirky personality and many great activities.

Lancaster is not popular with students.

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

Lancaster 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 Lancaster. The city has buses and several transportation options, but once you're outside of the urban core, your options are limited.

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

Is Key West or Lancaster a more walkable city?

Key West is a nice place to visit for its ease of walking around. However, Lancaster is not known for its walkability.

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.

Lancaster is generally not very walkable. While the city itself has walkable areas, most visitors want to get out and explore the countryside, which requires a car.

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

Should I spend more time in Lancaster or Key West?

How long in Key West or Lancaster?

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

Families should spend more time in Key West than Lancaster. 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 Lancaster. 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 Lancaster 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 Lancaster?

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 beautiful town of Lancaster offers food and shopping. 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 Lancaster?

You'll find scuba diving and snorkeling and nightlife around the quaint 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.

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

Five days in Key West or Lancaster?

You'll find nightlife and food around the quirky 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.

Lancaster 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 Lancaster?

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.

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

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 Lancaster Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Key West or Lancaster?

Lancaster has a larger population, and is about 2 times larger than the population of Key West. When comparing the sizes of Key West and Lancaster, 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 Lancaster?

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 Lancaster in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Key West as well as Lancaster. Many travelers come to Key West for the beaches, snorkeling, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Lancaster in the summer for the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Key West is a little warmer than Lancaster. Typically, the summer temperatures in Key West in July average around 84°F (29°C), and Lancaster averages at about 77°F (25°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Lancaster. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Key West this time of the year. In the summer, Key West often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Lancaster. Key West gets 328 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Lancaster receives 310 hours of full sun.

Key West usually gets less rain in July than Lancaster. Key West gets 3.3 inches (83 mm) of rain, while Lancaster receives 3.6 inches (91 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Key West or Lancaster in the Autumn?

Both Lancaster and Key West are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Key West in the autumn for the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, most visitors come to Lancaster for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

In October, Key West is generally much warmer than Lancaster. Daily temperatures in Key West average around 80°F (27°C), and Lancaster fluctuates around 56°F (13°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Key West. Key West usually receives more sunshine than Lancaster during autumn. Key West gets 258 hours of sunny skies, while Lancaster receives 194 hours of full sun in the autumn.

It's quite rainy in Key West. In October, Key West usually receives more rain than Lancaster. Key West gets 5.1 inches (129 mm) of rain, while Lancaster receives 2.9 inches (75 mm) of rain each month for the autumn. June to November is the hurricane season in Key West.

Should I visit Key West or Lancaster in the Winter?

Both Lancaster and Key West during the winter are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Key West for the shopping scene and the cuisine during these months. Furthermore, the winter months attract visitors to Lancaster because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

The weather in Lancaster can be very cold. Key West is much warmer than Lancaster in the winter. The daily temperature in Key West averages around 70°F (21°C) in January, and Lancaster fluctuates around 30°F (-1°C).

It's quite sunny in Key West. In the winter, Key West often gets more sunshine than Lancaster. Key West gets 252 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Lancaster receives 153 hours of full sun.

Key West usually gets less rain in January than Lancaster. Key West gets 1.7 inches (43 mm) of rain, while Lancaster receives 2.8 inches (72 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Key West or Lancaster in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Key West and Lancaster. The spring months attract visitors to Key West because of the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty. Furthermore, the natural beauty are the main draw to Lancaster this time of year.

In the spring, Key West is much warmer than Lancaster. Typically, the spring temperatures in Key West in April average around 77°F (25°C), and Lancaster averages at about 53°F (12°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Lancaster this time of the year. In Key West, it's very sunny this time of the year. Key West usually receives more sunshine than Lancaster during spring. Key West gets 326 hours of sunny skies, while Lancaster receives 237 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Key West usually receives less rain than Lancaster. Key West gets 0.8 inches (21 mm) of rain, while Lancaster receives 3.2 inches (82 mm) of rain each month for the spring. June to November in Key West is the hurricane season.

Typical Weather for Lancaster and Key West