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

Should you visit Marathon or Cleveland?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Marathon or Cleveland, 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 beautiful, relaxing, and quaint island. Marathon is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Other reasons to visit include food, scuba diving and snorkeling, and beaches. See Marathon travel costs.

Cleveland

Cleveland is a under-rated, diverse, and authentic city. Other reasons to visit include museums, nightlife, and live music. See Cleveland travel costs.

Marathon and Cleveland: 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
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with couples


Is there more to do in Marathon or Cleveland?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Cleveland. Although Marathon and Cleveland are both popular with visitors, Cleveland has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Cleveland is more popular for its museums and attractions, music, and shopping, while Marathon is known for its food, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and impressive beauty. Marathon is more touristy than Cleveland and is known for its Loggerhead sea turtles, the Dolphin Research Center, Sombrero Beach, and its many places to scuba dive and snorkel. Cleveland is popular for being the home to "rock 'n roll" as well as its friendly and hard working people. It is also home to the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame.

How is Marathon different from Cleveland?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Marathon
Cleveland

Cleveland 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 Cleveland can be an interesting and educational experience. There are diverse museums around town such as the Cleveland Museum of Art, the Museum of Contemporary Art (moCa), and the Great Lakes Science Center. Music lovers will appreciate a visit to the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame.

Marathon does not have museums and landmarks.


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

Marathon
Cleveland

Marathon is a nice place to visit for its restaurants. However, Cleveland is lacking in good options for its restaurant scene.

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.

You'll find the standard options when it comes to food in Cleveland. Casual dining with comfort food is the way most residents prefer to eat. There are local foods that have made a name for themselves such as gourmet hot dogs and deli sandwiches. The food is also influenced by the city's German, Irish, Polish, and Italian roots. Pierogis, bratwurst, and chicken paprikash are all common.

Is Marathon or Cleveland Better for Nightlife?

Marathon
Cleveland

The vibe at night is good in both Marathon and Cleveland.

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 Cleveland. Breweries have become a popular nighttime activity. There are also comedy clubs, music venues, and several theaters.

Is Marathon or Cleveland Better for Music?

Marathon
Cleveland

Cleveland is great for live music. However, Marathon is not a live music destination.

The music scene in Cleveland draws a good crowd. Home to the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame, it has long been a destination for music enthusiasts. There are many independent music venues and it's the perfect place to catch a show.

Marathon is not a live music destination.


Is Marathon or Cleveland Better for Resorts?

Marathon
Cleveland

Marathon is a very popular place for its luxury resorts. However, Cleveland is not a resort destination.

Marathon is a popular resort destination that attracts visitors from everywhere. Popular resorts include Isla Bella Beach Resort and Tranquility Bay Resort.

Cleveland is not a resort destination.

Is Marathon or Cleveland Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Marathon
Cleveland

Marathon is a nice place to visit for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Cleveland is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

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

Cleveland is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Marathon or Cleveland Better for Beaches?

Marathon
Cleveland

Marathon is a very popular place for its beaches. However, Cleveland is not a beach destination.

You'll have a great beach vacation in Marathon. Sombrero Beach is a popular spot for picnics, swimming and seeing the Loggerhead Turtles from April through October.

Cleveland is not a beach destination.


Is the Shopping Better in Marathon or Cleveland?

Marathon
Cleveland

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

Plenty of visitors enjoy shopping while in Cleveland. Large shopping malls offer plenty of selection. There's also West Side Market, which is the oldest public market in the city. Other interesting shopping areas include Little Italy and the Cleveland Flea.

Marathon is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Marathon or Cleveland More Beautiful?

Marathon
Cleveland

Marathon is a very popular place for its scenery and beauty. However, Cleveland is not a destination known for its beauty.

Marathon is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. The waters are blue and the setting is peaceful, making this area truly beautiful.

Cleveland is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Marathon or Cleveland Better for Families?

Marathon
Cleveland

Marathon is a very popular place for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Cleveland is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

Marathon is a very family-friendly destination. 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.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Cleveland. Kid-friendly activities in the area include the Children’s Museum of Cleveland, the Great Lakes Science Center, and the Cleveland Museum of Natural History. There's also the Cleveland Metroparks Zoo as well as the smaller Akron Zoo.


Is Marathon or Cleveland Better for Couples?

Marathon
Cleveland

Marathon is a very popular place for romance. However, Cleveland is lacking in good options for its romantic activities.

Marathon makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. 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.

Most people don't think of Cleveland as a couple's destination. There are several romantic date night activities like boat rides on Lake Erie or dining at a nice restaurant.

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

Marathon
Cleveland

Cleveland is adequate for times when you don't have a car. However, Marathon is not a good destination for its public transit.

Public transit is mostly limited in Cleveland. There are bus, trolley, and train lines through the city, but a car is the most efficient way to get around.

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

Is Marathon or Cleveland a more walkable city?

Marathon
Cleveland

Marathon and Cleveland are decent when it comes to walkability.

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

Cleveland is generally not very walkable. While some neighborhoods are more walkable than others (Downtown, Ohio City and Buckeye - Shaker), most visitors need a car to easily access everything they wish to do.


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

Should I spend more time in Cleveland or Marathon?

How long in Marathon or Cleveland?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Marathon and Cleveland. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Marathon than in Cleveland. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Marathon, and 1-3 days is enough time in Cleveland.

Families should spend more time in Marathon than Cleveland. 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 Cleveland. 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 Cleveland 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 Cleveland.


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

One day in Marathon or Cleveland?

You'll find food and scuba diving and snorkeling around the island of Marathon. 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 city of Cleveland offers live music 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 Cleveland?

You'll find scuba diving and snorkeling and nightlife around the quaint destination of Marathon. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. This island offers a variety of activities to choose from.

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

Five days in Marathon or Cleveland?

You'll find nightlife and food around the beautiful island of Marathon. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this island makes for a great vacation. It's also a relaxing resort destination. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this island has to offer.

Cleveland 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 Cleveland?

Marathon 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 Marathon, one week is sufficent for most. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Cleveland 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, Cleveland 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
    Cleveland Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Marathon $195
    Cleveland $158

The average daily cost (per person) in Marathon is $195, while the average daily cost in Cleveland is $158. 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 Cleveland in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Marathon $76
    Cleveland $75
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Marathon $152
    Cleveland $150
Compare Hotels in Marathon and Cleveland

Looking for a hotel in Marathon or Cleveland? 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 Cleveland


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 Cleveland Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Marathon $47
    Cleveland $19

Typical Local Transportation Prices in Cleveland

Some typical examples of transportation costs in Cleveland are as follows:


  • Taxi to Airport
    $36

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Cleveland

Also for Cleveland, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Cleveland Hopkins Airport (CLE) to Cleveland - Round-Trip Private Transfer : $207
  • Cleveland to Cleveland Hopkins Airport (CLE) - Departure Private Transfer : $104
  • Private Arrival Transfer from Cleveland Airprot (CLE): $68
  • Private Departure Transfer to Cleveland Airport (CLE): $68

Is it cheaper to fly into Marathon or Cleveland?

Prices for flights to both Cleveland 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
    Cleveland $62

Typical Food Prices in Cleveland

For Cleveland, here are some examples of average food and meal prices for travelers:


  • Coffee
    $1.79
  • Sandwich
    $9.75
  • Large Pizza
    $15

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Cleveland

For Cleveland, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • West Side Market Food Tour: $53
  • Little Italy Neighborhood Food Tour of Cleveland: $79
  • Tremont Neighborhood Food Tour: $79
  • Ohio City Neighborhood Food Tour of Cleveland: $91

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Marathon $27
    Cleveland $40

Tours and Activities in Marathon

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

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

Tours and Activities in Cleveland

For Cleveland, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • Akron Secrets: Rubber City Exploration Game and Tour: $5.00
  • Cleveland Browns Football Game Ticket at Huntington Bank Field: $35
  • Cleveland Comedy City Tour: $39
  • Cleveland Downtown Self Guided Audio Walking Tour: $9.75
  • Cleveland Golf Cart City Tour: $40
  • Cleveland Guardians Baseball Game Ticket at Progressive Field: $39
  • Cleveland Highlights City Tour with Pickup: $275
  • Electric Bike Tour in Cleveland: $109
  • Experience the season with a scavenger hunt in Cleveland with Holly Jolly Hunt: $20
  • Exploring Cleveland with the Family - Walking Tour: $262
  • Ghost Tour of Cleveland with free Ghost Hunting Gear: $20
  • Heritage Walk: Scenic Guided Tour of Cleveland: $262

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Marathon $24
    Cleveland $45

Typical Alcohol Prices in Cleveland

Some typical examples of the costs for nightlife and alcohol in Cleveland are as follows:


  • A Night of Shots
    $36

Sample the Local Flavors in Cleveland

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Cleveland:

  • Cleveland Brewery Golf Cart Tour Experience: $60


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Marathon and Cleveland, we can see that Marathon is more expensive. And not only is Cleveland much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Cleveland would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Cleveland 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 Marathon would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Marathon than you might in Cleveland.

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


Which is Bigger, Marathon or Cleveland?

Cleveland has a larger population, and is about 40 times larger than the population of Marathon. When comparing the sizes of Marathon and Cleveland, 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 Cleveland?

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 Marathon or Cleveland in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Marathon and Cleveland. The summer months attract visitors to Marathon because of the beaches, snorkeling, and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, the music scene and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Cleveland this time of year.

Marathon is a little warmer than Cleveland in the summer. The daily temperature in Marathon averages around 84°F (29°C) in July, and Cleveland fluctuates around 75°F (24°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Cleveland this time of the year. In Marathon, it's very sunny this time of the year. Marathon usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Cleveland during summer. Marathon gets 328 hours of sunny skies, while Cleveland receives 307 hours of full sun in the summer.

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


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Marathon 84°F (29°C) 
    Cleveland 75°F (24°C)

Should I visit Marathon or Cleveland in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Marathon as well as Cleveland. The natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Marathon this time of year. Additionally, many travelers come to Cleveland for the shopping scene and the music scene.

In the autumn, Marathon is much warmer than Cleveland. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Marathon in October average around 80°F (27°C), and Cleveland averages at about 56°F (13°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Marathon this time of the year. In the autumn, Marathon often gets more sunshine than Cleveland. Marathon gets 258 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Cleveland receives 165 hours of full sun.

Marathon receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Marathon usually gets more rain in October than Cleveland. Marathon gets 5.1 inches (129 mm) of rain, while Cleveland receives 1.9 inches (49 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Marathon 80°F (27°C) 
    Cleveland 56°F (13°C)

Should I visit Marathon or Cleveland in the Winter?

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

Cleveland can get quite cold in the winter. In January, Marathon is generally much warmer than Cleveland. Daily temperatures in Marathon average around 70°F (21°C), and Cleveland fluctuates around 28°F (-2°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Marathon. Marathon usually receives more sunshine than Cleveland during winter. Marathon gets 252 hours of sunny skies, while Cleveland receives 95 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Marathon usually receives more rain than Cleveland. Marathon gets 1.7 inches (43 mm) of rain, while Cleveland receives 1.5 inches (39 mm) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Marathon 70°F (21°C) 
    Cleveland 28°F (-2°C)

Should I visit Marathon or Cleveland in the Spring?

Both Cleveland and Marathon during the spring are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Marathon in the spring for the beaches and the natural beauty.

Marathon is much warmer than Cleveland in the spring. The daily temperature in Marathon averages around 77°F (25°C) in April, and Cleveland fluctuates around 51°F (10°C).

In Cleveland, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Marathon. In the spring, Marathon often gets more sunshine than Cleveland. Marathon gets 326 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Cleveland receives 213 hours of full sun.

Marathon usually gets less rain in April than Cleveland. Marathon gets 0.8 inches (21 mm) of rain, while Cleveland receives 2.8 inches (71 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Marathon 77°F (25°C) 
    Cleveland 51°F (10°C)

Typical Weather for Cleveland and Marathon

Marathon Cleveland
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 70°F (21°C) 1.7 inches (43 mm) 28°F (-2°C) 1.5 inches (39 mm)
Feb 71°F (21°C) 1.4 inches (36 mm) 30°F (-1°C) 1.5 inches (37 mm)
Mar 74°F (23°C) 1.7 inches (42 mm) 40°F (5°C) 1.9 inches (49 mm)
Apr 77°F (25°C) 0.8 inches (21 mm) 51°F (10°C) 2.8 inches (71 mm)
May 81°F (27°C) 2.7 inches (68 mm) 61°F (16°C) 2.6 inches (67 mm)
Jun 83°F (28°C) 4.5 inches (114 mm) 71°F (21°C) 2.5 inches (64 mm)
Jul 84°F (29°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm) 75°F (24°C) 4 inches (101 mm)
Aug 84°F (29°C) 3.9 inches (98 mm) 73°F (23°C) 2.4 inches (60 mm)
Sep 83°F (29°C) 5.7 inches (144 mm) 67°F (19°C) 3 inches (75 mm)
Oct 80°F (27°C) 5.1 inches (129 mm) 56°F (13°C) 1.9 inches (49 mm)
Nov 76°F (24°C) 2 inches (50 mm) 45°F (7°C) 2.2 inches (57 mm)
Dec 72°F (22°C) 1.4 inches (35 mm) 34°F (1°C) 2.2 inches (55 mm)