A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Marathon vs. Cincinnati for Families, Couples, Food, and Nightlife

Should you visit Marathon or Cincinnati?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Marathon or Cincinnati, this travel comparison, which includes costs, can help. The overall cost of travel is usually a consideration when deciding where to go next, and the cost comparison down below can help you decide based on the average prices from other travelers along with your own travel budget.

Marathon

Marathon is a relaxing, quaint, and beautiful island. The beauty of Marathon is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the scuba diving and snorkeling, beaches, and nightlife. See Marathon travel costs.

Cincinnati

Cincinnati is a hard-working, blue collar, and authentic city. Other reasons to visit include museums, nightlife, and food. See Cincinnati travel costs.

Marathon and Cincinnati: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Active nightlife
  • Nice resorts
  • Good scuba and snorkeling destination
  • Popular beach
  • Known for its beauty
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Public transit not as usable
  • Less walkable
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good public transit
  • Very walkable
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with couples


Is there more to do in Marathon or Cincinnati?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Marathon. Although Marathon and Cincinnati are popular destinations, Marathon has more sights and attractions for tourists. Marathon is very popular for its resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and impressive beauty, while Cincinnati attracts visitors for its museums and attractions and shopping. Marathon is more touristy than Cincinnati and is popular for its Loggerhead sea turtles, the Dolphin Research Center, Sombrero Beach, and its many places to scuba dive and snorkel. It is also well known for The Dolphin Research Center. Cincinnati is famous for its breweries and down-to-earth personality.

How is Marathon different from Cincinnati?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Marathon or Cincinnati?

Marathon
Cincinnati

Cincinnati is great for its historical sights. However, Marathon does not have museums and landmarks.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Cincinnati can be an interesting and educational experience. You'll find both traditional and quirky museums around town. For outside-the-box, check out the American Sign Museum or the Behringer-Crawford Museum. Art museums include the Cincinnati Art Museum, the Contemporary Arts Center, and the Taft Museum of Art. Other popular museums include the Cincinnati Reds Hall of Fame, the National Underground Railroad Freedom Center, and the Cincinnati Museum Center at Union Terminal.

Marathon does not have museums and landmarks.


Is the Food Better in Marathon or Cincinnati? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Marathon
Cincinnati

Both Marathon and Cincinnati offer a number of nice restaurants to choose from.

There are plenty of up and coming restaurants around Marathon. There are restaurants with waterfront terraces, raw bars, and other seafood eateries where you can enjoy fresh caught fish for a reasonable price.

Visitors will find a budding food and restaurant scene in Cincinnati. Mixed in with the standard chain and fast food options, you'll find some local restaurants that serve up the iconic Midwestern favorites. For a taste of the town, try Cincinnati chili, barbecue ribs, and a corned beef Reuben.

Is Marathon or Cincinnati Better for Nightlife?

Marathon
Cincinnati

The vibe at night is nice in both Marathon and Cincinnati.

If you're looking for night time activities Marathon has a few options to choose from. Popular nightlife venues include JJ’s Dog House & Sports Bar, Brass Monkey, and Cabana Club.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Cincinnati. The nightlife scene is diverse and includes music venues, breweries, and nightclubs. In addition to the city's downtown, you'll find trendy places to hang out in the Over-the-Rhine neighborhood. Breweries are popular in the city, in part because of its German roots.

Is Marathon or Cincinnati Better for Resorts?

Marathon
Cincinnati

Marathon is well known for its resorts. However, Cincinnati is not a resort destination.

Marathon is known as a popular and fun resort destination. Popular resorts include Isla Bella Beach Resort and Tranquility Bay Resort.

Cincinnati is not a resort destination.


Is Marathon or Cincinnati Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Marathon
Cincinnati

Marathon is a popular place for its diving and snorkeling. However, Cincinnati is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Marathon has a few good snorkeling spots. There are many dive shops around Marathon and the area has dive spots that are great for every level. Some of the best sites are Sombrero Reef, Coffins Patch, and Thunderbolt wreck. There are also many snorkeling trips that head out to Sombrero Reef.

Cincinnati is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Marathon or Cincinnati Better for Beaches?

Marathon
Cincinnati

Marathon is well known for the beach. However, Cincinnati is not a beach destination.

Marathon is considered a top beach destination. Sombrero Beach is a popular spot for picnics, swimming and seeing the Loggerhead Turtles from April through October.

Cincinnati is not a beach destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Marathon or Cincinnati?

Marathon
Cincinnati

Cincinnati is a nice place to visit for shopping. However, Marathon is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Plenty of visitors enjoy shopping while in Cincinnati. There are large shopping malls and retail outlets. You'll also find local boutiques in the Montgomery or Mariemont areas.

Marathon is not a noteworthy shopping destination.


Is Marathon or Cincinnati More Beautiful?

Marathon
Cincinnati

Marathon is well known for its scenery and beauty. However, Cincinnati is not a destination known for its beauty.

The beauty of Marathon is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. The waters are blue and the setting is peaceful, making this area truly beautiful.

Cincinnati is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Marathon or Cincinnati Better for Families?

Marathon
Cincinnati

Marathon is well known for its family-friendly activities. Also, Cincinnati is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

Marathon is a very kid-friendly island. Kids will enjoy getting face-to-face with dolphins at the Dolphin Research Center. Families can also explore Pigeon Key or play in the water at Sombrero Beach. Families will find no shortage of activities on the island.

Cincinnati offers lots of family activities. There's a surprising number of kid-friendly activities around town like the Cincinnati Zoo, the Cincinnati Museum Center, Newport Aquarium, and Smale Riverfront Park.

Is Marathon or Cincinnati Better for Couples?

Marathon
Cincinnati

Marathon is well known for its romantic activities. However, Cincinnati is not particularly known for couples.

Couples visit Marathon frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. With beautiful views, 7 Mile Bridge, and plenty of activities, this area makes a romantic destination for couples. There are beaches and waterfront spots that offer a romantic setting for couples.

Cincinnati is not always the best place to visit for a couple. If you do find yourself in town for a few days, there are several good restaurants and a number of music venues that can keep the visit fun and entertaining.


Is Marathon or Cincinnati Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Marathon
Cincinnati

Cincinnati is a nice place to visit for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Marathon is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

It's common for backpackers to visit Cincinnati. There are actually a couple of hostels in town for backpackers or students.

Marathon is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

Is Marathon or Cincinnati Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Marathon
Cincinnati

Cincinnati is a nice place to visit for times when you don't have a car. However, Marathon is not a good destination for its public transit.

While Cincinnati offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There are two bus systems around town - the METRO and TANK bus systems. There's also a streetcar that travels through the downtown.

Public transit is limited or non-existant in Marathon. There's no real public transportation in town. A car is essential.

Is Marathon or Cincinnati a more walkable city?

Marathon
Cincinnati

Cincinnati is great for its walkability. However, Marathon is not a good destination for its high level of walkability.

Cincinnati is very walkable. There are several surprisingly walkable areas, particularly downtown and the nearby neighborhoods.

Marathon is generally not very walkable. Shops and restaurants and spread out along a central road, making walking difficult to impossible.


For even more information, also check out Is Marathon Worth Visiting? and Is Cincinnati Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Cincinnati or Marathon?

How long in Marathon or Cincinnati?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Marathon or Cincinnati to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Marathon than Cincinnati because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Marathon, and 1-2 days is enough time in Cincinnati.

Families should spend more time in Marathon than Cincinnati. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Marathon, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Couples should spend more time in Marathon than Cincinnati. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Marathon that are great for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Cincinnati than Marathon 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 Cincinnati.


  • How many days in Marathon or Cincinnati? Ideal Length of Stay
    Marathon 3-7 
    Cincinnati 1-2

One day in Marathon or Cincinnati?

With scuba diving and snorkeling and nightlife around the beautiful island of Marathon, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

The city of Cincinnati 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 Marathon or Cincinnati?

With nightlife and food around the destination of Marathon, 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.

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

Five days in Marathon or Cincinnati?

Marathon, a popular island, is full of activities for travelers. This is a popular place to visit for five days. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. In five days, you should have a good grasp of this island. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Cincinnati 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 Marathon or Cincinnati?

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

Cincinnati 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 Tours for Seniors to United States of America, The Best Contiki Tours to United States of America, The Best G Adventures Tours to United States of America, and The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Las Vegas.


Which place is cheaper, Cincinnati or Marathon?

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

  • Marathon Prices
    USA Prices
    Cincinnati Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Marathon $195
    Cincinnati $223

The average daily cost (per person) in Marathon is $195, while the average daily cost in Cincinnati is $223. 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 Marathon and Cincinnati in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Marathon $76
    Cincinnati $102
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Marathon $152
    Cincinnati $204
Compare Hotels in Marathon and Cincinnati

Looking for a hotel in Marathon or Cincinnati? 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 Marathon


Hotels in Cincinnati


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: Marathon Hotel Prices and Cincinnati Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Marathon $47
    Cincinnati $25

Is it cheaper to fly into Marathon or Cincinnati?

Prices for flights to both Cincinnati and Marathon 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
    Marathon $89
    Cincinnati $95

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Marathon $27
    Cincinnati $26

Tours and Activities in Marathon

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Marathon.

  • Rhum Runner Aqua Park Adventure: $38
  • Florida: Sunset Champagne Cruise on the Marathon Mermaid: $82
  • Snorkeling Adventure by Boat at Sombrero Reef: $89
  • Intro to Foilboarding Experience: $214

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Marathon $24
    Cincinnati $11


When comparing the travel costs between Marathon and Cincinnati, we can see that Cincinnati is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Since both cities are in North America, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Marathon Expensive? and Is Cincinnati Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Marathon or Cincinnati?

Cincinnati has a larger population, and is about 30 times larger than the population of Marathon. When comparing the sizes of Marathon and Cincinnati, 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 Marathon or Cincinnati?

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 Marathon or Cincinnati in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Marathon as well as Cincinnati. Many visitors come to Marathon in the summer for the beaches, snorkeling, and the family-friendly experiences. Additionally, most visitors come to Cincinnati for the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In the summer, Marathon is a little warmer than Cincinnati. Typically, the summer temperatures in Marathon in July average around 84°F (29°C), and Cincinnati averages at about 79°F (26°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Cincinnati. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Marathon this time of the year. In the summer, Marathon often gets more sunshine than Cincinnati. Marathon gets 328 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Cincinnati receives 298 hours of full sun.

Marathon usually gets less rain in July than Cincinnati. Marathon gets 3.3 inches (83 mm) of rain, while Cincinnati receives 3.5 inches (90 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Marathon 84°F (29°C) 
    Cincinnati 79°F (26°C)

Should I visit Marathon or Cincinnati in the Autumn?

Both Cincinnati and Marathon are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Marathon for the natural beauty of the area during these months. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Cincinnati because of the shopping scene.

In October, Marathon is generally much warmer than Cincinnati. Daily temperatures in Marathon average around 80°F (27°C), and Cincinnati fluctuates around 58°F (15°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Marathon. Marathon usually receives more sunshine than Cincinnati during autumn. Marathon gets 258 hours of sunny skies, while Cincinnati receives 188 hours of full sun in the autumn.

It's quite rainy in Marathon. In October, Marathon usually receives more rain than Cincinnati. Marathon gets 5.1 inches (129 mm) of rain, while Cincinnati receives 2.2 inches (56 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Marathon 80°F (27°C) 
    Cincinnati 58°F (15°C)

Should I visit Marathon or Cincinnati in the Winter?

Both Cincinnati and Marathon during the winter are popular places to visit. The winter months attract visitors to Marathon because of the cuisine. Also, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Cincinnati this time of year.

It's quite cold in Cincinnati in the winter. Marathon is much warmer than Cincinnati in the winter. The daily temperature in Marathon averages around 70°F (21°C) in January, and Cincinnati fluctuates around 31°F (-0°C).

It's quite sunny in Marathon. In the winter, Marathon often gets more sunshine than Cincinnati. Marathon gets 252 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Cincinnati receives 129 hours of full sun.

Marathon usually gets less rain in January than Cincinnati. Marathon gets 1.7 inches (43 mm) of rain, while Cincinnati receives 2.2 inches (57 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Marathon 70°F (21°C) 
    Cincinnati 31°F (-0°C)

Should I visit Marathon or Cincinnati in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Marathon and Cincinnati. The beaches and the natural beauty are the main draw to Marathon this time of year.

In the spring, Marathon is much warmer than Cincinnati. Typically, the spring temperatures in Marathon in April average around 77°F (25°C), and Cincinnati averages at about 56°F (14°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Cincinnati this time of the year. In Marathon, it's very sunny this time of the year. Marathon usually receives more sunshine than Cincinnati during spring. Marathon gets 326 hours of sunny skies, while Cincinnati receives 215 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Marathon usually receives less rain than Cincinnati. Marathon gets 0.8 inches (21 mm) of rain, while Cincinnati receives 3.5 inches (89 mm) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Marathon 77°F (25°C) 
    Cincinnati 56°F (14°C)

Typical Weather for Cincinnati and Marathon

Marathon Cincinnati
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 70°F (21°C) 1.7 inches (43 mm) 31°F (-0°C) 2.2 inches (57 mm)
Feb 71°F (21°C) 1.4 inches (36 mm) 35°F (2°C) 2.5 inches (64 mm)
Mar 74°F (23°C) 1.7 inches (42 mm) 46°F (8°C) 3.9 inches (100 mm)
Apr 77°F (25°C) 0.8 inches (21 mm) 56°F (14°C) 3.5 inches (89 mm)
May 81°F (27°C) 2.7 inches (68 mm) 66°F (19°C) 3.7 inches (93 mm)
Jun 83°F (28°C) 4.5 inches (114 mm) 74°F (24°C) 3.1 inches (80 mm)
Jul 84°F (29°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm) 79°F (26°C) 3.5 inches (90 mm)
Aug 84°F (29°C) 3.9 inches (98 mm) 77°F (25°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm)
Sep 83°F (29°C) 5.7 inches (144 mm) 71°F (21°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm)
Oct 80°F (27°C) 5.1 inches (129 mm) 58°F (15°C) 2.2 inches (56 mm)
Nov 76°F (24°C) 2 inches (50 mm) 48°F (9°C) 2.7 inches (68 mm)
Dec 72°F (22°C) 1.4 inches (35 mm) 37°F (3°C) 2.7 inches (69 mm)