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

Should you visit Key West or New Bern?

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

Should I visit Key West or New Bern? 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. 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.

New Bern

New Bern is a quaint, charming, and laid back town. This is a great small town that is just waiting to be explored. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and food. See New Bern travel costs.

Key West and New Bern: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Key West or New Bern?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Key West. Although Key West and New Bern 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 New Bern attracts visitors for its museums and attractions, shopping, and small town charm. Key West is more touristy than New Bern 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. New Bern is famous for being the birthplace of Pepsi.

How is Key West different from New Bern?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

New Bern offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. Many visitors check out the Tryon Palace while they're in town. Other museums include the New Bern Fireman's Museum, the Carolina Creations Fine Art & Contemporary Craft Gallery, and the New Bern Academy Museum.

Key West does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Key West is well known for its restaurant scene. Also, New Bern 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.

New Bern has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. There are a number of local eateries, bistros, and cafes in town. You can sample southern favorites or something international. Popular dishes include fresh caught fish, crab cakes, and even tacos.

Is Key West or New Bern Better for Nightlife?

Key West is well known for nightlife. However, New Bern 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.

New Bern doesn't have the most active nightlife scene. There are a couple of pubs and breweries around town.

Is Key West or New Bern Better for Resorts?

Key West is well known for its resorts. However, New Bern 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.

New Bern is not a resort destination.

Is Key West or New Bern Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

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

New Bern is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Key West or New Bern Better for Beaches?

Key West is well known for its beaches. However, New Bern 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.

New Bern is not a beach destination.

Is Key West or New Bern Better for its Old Town?

Key West is well known for its historic old town. However, New Bern 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.

New Bern does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Key West or New Bern?

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

New Bern offers some nice shopping areas. There are local shops and boutiques that sell clothing, antiques, and gifts.

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 New Bern More Beautiful?

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

New Bern is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Key West or New Bern Better for Families?

Key West is well known for its family-friendly activities. However, New Bern 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, New Bern is not always the best place to visit. Stand up paddle boarding and other outdoor activities are a fun way to experience the area with kids. You could also visit the New Bern Fireman's Museum, the Tryon Palace, or one of the parks around town.

Is Key West or New Bern Better for Couples?

Key West is well known for romance. Also, New Bern 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.

New Bern makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. The town's charm and quaint parks make this a nice weekend getaway. There are outdoor activities and the Tryon Palace which is nice to visit. There are also local restaurants around town.

Is Key West or New Bern Better for Students?

Key West is well known for students. However, New Bern 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.

New Bern is not popular with students.

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

Neither Key West or New Bern offer decent public transit.

Public transit is limited or non-existant in Key West. Public transportation in Key West is limited to a few buses.

Public transit is quite limited in New Bern. There's no real public transit in the area.

Is Key West or New Bern a more walkable city?

Key West and New Bern 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.

New Bern is a somewhat walkable town. The downtown area is walkable and nice to explore on foot.

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

Should I spend more time in New Bern or Key West?

How long in Key West or New Bern?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Key West or New Bern to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Key West than New Bern 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 New Bern.

Families should spend more time in Key West than New Bern. 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 New Bern. 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 New Bern 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 New Bern?

The beautiful town of Key West offers nightlife and food. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. 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.

New Bern is a small town where visitors enjoy the 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 New Bern?

Key West is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

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

Five days in Key West or New Bern?

Key West is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Key West, five days is sufficent for most. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

New Bern 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 New Bern?

Key West is a great place to explore. It is common to spend one week here. Visiting the old town is also a must. One week is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Key West has to offer. This town offers something for everyone.

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

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 New Bern Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Key West or New Bern?

Key West has a larger population, and is about 4% larger than the population of New Bern. When comparing the sizes of Key West and New Bern, 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 New Bern?

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 New Bern in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Key West and New Bern. 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 New Bern this time of year.

In July, Key West is generally around the same temperature as New Bern. Daily temperatures in Key West average around 84°F (29°C), and New Bern fluctuates around 80°F (27°C).

New Bern receives a lot of rain in the summer. In July, Key West usually receives less rain than New Bern. Key West gets 3.3 inches (83 mm) of rain, while New Bern receives 6.6 inches (169 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Key West or New Bern in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Key West as well as New Bern. 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 New Bern for the shopping scene and the small town atmosphere.

Key West is a little warmer than New Bern in the autumn. The daily temperature in Key West averages around 80°F (27°C) in October, and New Bern fluctuates around 65°F (18°C).

Key West receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Key West usually gets more rain in October than New Bern. Key West gets 5.1 inches (129 mm) of rain, while New Bern receives 3.4 inches (85 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 New Bern in the Winter?

Both New Bern 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 New Bern in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

In the winter, Key West is much warmer than New Bern. Typically, the winter temperatures in Key West in January average around 70°F (21°C), and New Bern averages at about 44°F (7°C).

It rains a lot this time of the year in New Bern. In January, Key West usually receives less rain than New Bern. Key West gets 1.7 inches (43 mm) of rain, while New Bern receives 4.1 inches (105 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Key West or New Bern in the Spring?

Both New Bern 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 New Bern for the small town charm during these months.

In April, Key West is generally much warmer than New Bern. Daily temperatures in Key West average around 77°F (25°C), and New Bern fluctuates around 62°F (16°C).

Key West usually gets less rain in April than New Bern. Key West gets 0.8 inches (21 mm) of rain, while New Bern receives 2.9 inches (74 mm) of rain this time of the year. Also, June to November in Key West is the hurricane season.

Typical Weather for New Bern and Key West