A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Key West vs. Lewisburg for Food, Nightlife, Old Town, and Families

Should you visit Key West or Lewisburg?

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

Should I visit Key West or Lewisburg? 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. 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.

Lewisburg

Lewisburg is a charming, historical, and quaint town. It's a very nice small town not to be missed. And you can't forget about the shopping and museums. See Lewisburg travel costs.

Key West and Lewisburg: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Nice resorts
  • Good scuba and snorkeling destination
  • Popular beach
  • Known for its beauty
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Impressive beauty
  • Quaint atmosphere
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with backpackers
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Family-friendly
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for food
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less popular with couples
  • Less popular with backpackers


Is there more to do in Key West or Lewisburg?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Key West. Although Key West and Lewisburg are popular destinations, Key West has more sights and attractions for tourists. Key West is very popular for its food, nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, historical sights, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere, while Lewisburg attracts visitors for its museums and attractions and shopping. Key West is more touristy than Lewisburg and is known 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. Lewisburg is famous for its historical charm and friendly personality.

How is Key West different from Lewisburg?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Key West
Lewisburg

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

Lewisburg offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. There are several cultural and historical museums in town as well as a fun children's museum.

Key West does not have museums and landmarks.


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

Key West
Lewisburg

Key West is well known for its restaurant scene. However, Lewisburg is not particularly known 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.

You'll find the standard options when it comes to food in Lewisburg. There are bistros and cafes as well as all the standard chain restaurants.

Is Key West or Lewisburg Better for Nightlife?

Key West
Lewisburg

Key West is well known for nightlife. However, Lewisburg is not particularly known for nightlife and partying.

Key West is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. 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.

Lewisburg doesn't have the most active nightlife scene. While there are some bars, most people don't come here for the nightlife.

Is Key West or Lewisburg Better for Resorts?

Key West
Lewisburg

Key West is well known for its resorts. However, Lewisburg 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.

Lewisburg is not a resort destination.


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

Key West
Lewisburg

Key West is a popular place for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Lewisburg 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.

Lewisburg is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Key West or Lewisburg Better for Beaches?

Key West
Lewisburg

Key West is well known for its beaches. However, Lewisburg 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.

Lewisburg is not a beach destination.

Is Key West or Lewisburg Better for its Old Town?

Key West
Lewisburg

Key West is well known for its historic old town. Also, Lewisburg is still popular, but not quite as popular for its 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.

Plenty of visitors enjoy exploring the old town in Lewisburg. There are a huge number of historical buildings in the downtown area that contribute to the town's charm and character.


Is the Shopping Better in Key West or Lewisburg?

Key West
Lewisburg

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

Lewisburg offers some nice shopping areas. There are some quaint local shops that sell local items and unique art works.

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 Lewisburg More Beautiful?

Key West
Lewisburg

Key West is well known for its scenery and beauty. However, Lewisburg 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.

Lewisburg is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Key West or Lewisburg Better for Families?

Key West
Lewisburg

Key West is well known for its family-friendly activities. Also, Lewisburg is still popular, but not quite as popular 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.

Lewisburg offers lots of family activities. The Lewisburg Children's Museum is worth checking out, as is Reptiland and the many different indoor and outdoor play areas.


Is Key West or Lewisburg Better for Couples?

Key West
Lewisburg

Key West is well known for romance. However, Lewisburg is not particularly known 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.

Most people don't think of Lewisburg as a couple's destination. There are several quaint inns and beautiful gardens that you can explore. There are also spas and restaurants where you can enjoy a nice meal.

Is Key West or Lewisburg Better for Students?

Key West
Lewisburg

Key West is well known for students. Also, Lewisburg is still popular, but not quite as popular for its student-friendly activities.

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.

It's common for students to visit Lewisburg. Many students enjoy living here while they attend Bucknell University.

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

Key West
Lewisburg

Lewisburg 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 Lewisburg. Public transportation in the area is limited.

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


Is Key West or Lewisburg a more walkable city?

Key West
Lewisburg

Key West and Lewisburg both are nice 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.

Lewisburg is a somewhat walkable town. It's small with a relatively compact downtown.

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

Should I spend more time in Lewisburg or Key West?

How long in Key West or Lewisburg?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Key West or Lewisburg to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Key West than Lewisburg because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 5-7 days is a good amount of time for Key West, and 1-2 days is enough time in Lewisburg.

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


  • How many days in Key West or Lewisburg? Ideal Length of Stay
    Key West 5-7 
    Lewisburg 1-2

One day in Key West or Lewisburg?

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 town of Lewisburg offers museums 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 Lewisburg?

You'll find scuba diving and snorkeling and nightlife around the laid-back 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.

Lewisburg 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 Lewisburg, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.


Five days in Key West or Lewisburg?

You'll find nightlife and food around the lively 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.

Lewisburg 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 Lewisburg?

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.

Lewisburg 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.


Which place is cheaper, Lewisburg or Key West?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations. These travel costs come from the actual spending of real travelers.

  • Key West Prices
    USA Prices
    Lewisburg Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Key West $832
    Lewisburg $161

The average daily cost (per person) in Key West is $832, while the average daily cost in Lewisburg is $161. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Key West and Lewisburg in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Key West $132
    Lewisburg $70
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Key West $264
    Lewisburg $140
Compare Hotels in Key West and Lewisburg

Looking for a hotel in Key West or Lewisburg? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Key West


Hotels in Lewisburg


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Key West Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Key West $51
    Lewisburg $53
Typical Local Transportation Prices in Key West

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for transportation costs in Key West:


  • Rental Car for One Day
    $38

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Key West

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Key West:

  • Key West Int Airport (EYW) to Key West - Arrival Private Transfer: $163
  • Key West Int Airport EYW to Key West Hotels Arrival Transfer: $155
  • Key West hotels to Key West Int Airport (EYW) Departure Transfer: $155
  • Key West to Key West Airport (EYW) - Departure Private Transfer: $163
  • One Way Airport Transfer Service: $54

Is it cheaper to fly into Key West or Lewisburg?

Prices for flights to both Lewisburg and Key West change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    Key West $667
    Lewisburg $59

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Key West

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Key West.

  • Sunset Dinner Cruise with Open Bar & Live Music: $74
  • Cooking Show Chef Demonstration with Meal: $81
  • Key West Sunset Cruise: Dinner, Live Music & Drinks Included: $84
  • Southernmost Food & Cultural Walking Tour by Key West Food Tours: $90
  • Key West Sunset Buffet Dinner Cruise with Open Bar and Live Music: $100
  • Secret Walking Food Tour: $115
  • Sunset Sail Full Bar, Live Music & Dinner & Early Morning Snorkeling: $160

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Key West $33
    Lewisburg $18

Tours and Activities in Key West

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Key West are as follows:

  • Key West Pirate Exploration Game and Tour: $5.00
  • Florida Key West Self-Guided Walking Audio Tour: $9.99
  • Key West GPS Audio Tour: From Seaside Village to Micro State: $12
  • Key West’s Old Town Treasures: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $15
  • Mel Fisher Maritime Museum Admission Ticket: $18
  • Key West Shipwreck Treasure Museum Tickets: $19
  • Key West Aquarium Tickets: $23
  • Key West Scavenger Hunt Walking Tour and Game: $25
  • Key West Ghost Tours: Southernmost Shadows and Ghosts: $26
  • Truman Little White House Guided Tour Ticket: $26
  • Key West Ghost Tours: Southernmost Shadows and Ghosts: $27
  • The Ghosts of Key West Walking Tour: $30

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Key West $16
    Lewisburg $12

Sample the Local Flavors in Key West

Also in Key West, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • Key West Bar Crawl: $15
  • Key West Haunted Pub Crawl and Ghost Tour with Free T-Shirt: $32
  • Bone Island Haunted Pub Crawl: $32
  • Key West Haunted Pub Crawl Walking Tour: $35
  • Haunted Pub Crawl Walking Tour: $35
  • 2.5-Hour Duval Street Pub Crawl: $43


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Key West and Lewisburg, we can see that Key West is more expensive. And not only is Lewisburg much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Lewisburg would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Lewisburg 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 Lewisburg.

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 Lewisburg Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Key West or Lewisburg?

Key West has a larger population, and is about 5 times larger than the population of Lewisburg. When comparing the sizes of Key West and Lewisburg, 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 Lewisburg?

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 Lewisburg in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Key West and Lewisburg. The summer months attract visitors to Key West because of the beaches, snorkeling, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, the small town charm and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Lewisburg this time of year.

In July, Key West is generally a little warmer than Lewisburg. Daily temperatures in Key West average around 84°F (29°C), and Lewisburg fluctuates around 74°F (24°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Lewisburg this time of the year. In Key West, it's very sunny this time of the year. Key West usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Lewisburg during summer. Key West gets 328 hours of sunny skies, while Lewisburg receives 310 hours of full sun in the summer.

Lewisburg receives a lot of rain in the summer. In July, Key West usually receives less rain than Lewisburg. Key West gets 3.3 inches (83 mm) of rain, while Lewisburg receives 4 inches (101 mm) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Key West 84°F (29°C) 
    Lewisburg 74°F (24°C)

Should I visit Key West or Lewisburg in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Key West as well as Lewisburg. 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. Additionally, many travelers come to Lewisburg for the shopping scene and the small town atmosphere.

Key West is much warmer than Lewisburg in the autumn. The daily temperature in Key West averages around 80°F (27°C) in October, and Lewisburg fluctuates around 54°F (12°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 Lewisburg. Key West gets 258 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Lewisburg receives 194 hours of full sun.

Key West receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Key West usually gets more rain in October than Lewisburg. Key West gets 5.1 inches (129 mm) of rain, while Lewisburg receives 3.3 inches (84 mm) of rain this time of the year. Keep in mind that June to November is the hurricane season in Key West.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Key West 80°F (27°C) 
    Lewisburg 54°F (12°C)

Should I visit Key West or Lewisburg in the Winter?

Both Lewisburg and Key West are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Key West for the shopping scene and the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Lewisburg in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Lewisburg can get quite cold in the winter. In the winter, Key West is much warmer than Lewisburg. Typically, the winter temperatures in Key West in January average around 70°F (21°C), and Lewisburg averages at about 27°F (-3°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Key West. Key West usually receives more sunshine than Lewisburg during winter. Key West gets 252 hours of sunny skies, while Lewisburg receives 153 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Key West usually receives less rain than Lewisburg. Key West gets 1.7 inches (43 mm) of rain, while Lewisburg receives 2.5 inches (65 mm) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Key West 70°F (21°C) 
    Lewisburg 27°F (-3°C)

Should I visit Key West or Lewisburg in the Spring?

Both Lewisburg and Key West during the spring are popular places to visit. 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 Lewisburg for the small town charm during these months.

In April, Key West is generally much warmer than Lewisburg. Daily temperatures in Key West average around 77°F (25°C), and Lewisburg fluctuates around 51°F (11°C).

In Lewisburg, 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 Lewisburg. Key West gets 326 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Lewisburg receives 237 hours of full sun.

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


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Key West 77°F (25°C) 
    Lewisburg 51°F (11°C)

Typical Weather for Lewisburg and Key West

Key West Lewisburg
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 70°F (21°C) 1.7 inches (43 mm) 27°F (-3°C) 2.5 inches (65 mm)
Feb 71°F (21°C) 1.4 inches (36 mm) 30°F (-1°C) 2.8 inches (70 mm)
Mar 74°F (23°C) 1.7 inches (42 mm) 40°F (5°C) 3.2 inches (81 mm)
Apr 77°F (25°C) 0.8 inches (21 mm) 51°F (11°C) 3.2 inches (82 mm)
May 81°F (27°C) 2.7 inches (68 mm) 62°F (16°C) 3.9 inches (98 mm)
Jun 83°F (28°C) 4.5 inches (114 mm) 70°F (21°C) 4.3 inches (110 mm)
Jul 84°F (29°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm) 74°F (24°C) 4 inches (101 mm)
Aug 84°F (29°C) 3.9 inches (98 mm) 73°F (23°C) 3.4 inches (86 mm)
Sep 83°F (29°C) 5.7 inches (144 mm) 65°F (19°C) 3.4 inches (86 mm)
Oct 80°F (27°C) 5.1 inches (129 mm) 54°F (12°C) 3.3 inches (84 mm)
Nov 76°F (24°C) 2 inches (50 mm) 44°F (7°C) 3.7 inches (95 mm)
Dec 72°F (22°C) 1.4 inches (35 mm) 33°F (1°C) 3 inches (77 mm)