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

Should you visit Marathon or Lancaster?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Marathon or Lancaster, 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 quaint, beautiful, and relaxing island. With stunning beauty, Marathon attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the beaches, nightlife, and food. See Marathon travel costs.

Lancaster

Lancaster is a scenic, traditional, and picturesque town. Lancaster is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Other reasons to visit include food, shopping, and museums. See Lancaster travel costs.

Marathon and Lancaster: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Marathon or Lancaster?

Both Lancaster and Marathon have plenty of things to do for visitors. Both offer a variety of sights, activities, and attractions for tourists. Marathon is better known for its nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, and beaches, while Lancaster is more popular for its museums and attractions, food, and shopping. Marathon is more touristy than Lancaster and is known for its Loggerhead sea turtles, the Dolphin Research Center, Sombrero Beach, and its many places to scuba dive and snorkel. Lancaster is well known for its history and long running Amish community.

How is Marathon different from Lancaster?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Lancaster 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 Lancaster can be an interesting and educational experience. 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.

Marathon does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Lancaster is great for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Marathon is not as popular, but is still a nice island for its local cuisine and restaurants.

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in Lancaster. 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.

Visitors will find a budding food and restaurant scene in Marathon. There are restaurants with waterfront terraces, raw bars, and other seafood eateries where you can enjoy fresh caught fish for a reasonable price.

Is Marathon or Lancaster Better for Nightlife?

Marathon is a nice place to visit for its evening party scene. However, Lancaster is not known for nightlife.

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.

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 Marathon or Lancaster Better for Resorts?

Marathon is a great island for its luxury resorts. However, Lancaster 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.

Lancaster is not a resort destination.

Is Marathon or Lancaster Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Marathon is a nice place to visit for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Lancaster 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.

Lancaster is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Marathon or Lancaster Better for Beaches?

Marathon is a great island for the beach. However, Lancaster 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.

Lancaster is not a beach destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Marathon or Lancaster?

Lancaster is great for shopping. However, Marathon is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Lancaster. 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.

Marathon is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Marathon or Lancaster More Beautiful?

Marathon and Lancaster both are comparable with their superb scenery and 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.

The beauty of Lancaster is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. The countryside is beautiful, with preserved farmland, covered bridges, and beautiful gardens.

Is Marathon or Lancaster Better for Families?

Marathon and Lancaster are both superb destinations for the whole family.

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.

Lancaster is a very kid-friendly island. 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 Marathon or Lancaster Better for Couples?

Marathon and Lancaster are both superb to visit as a couple.

Marathon is a great island if you're traveling as 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.

Lancaster is a very popular place to visit for couples. 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 Marathon or Lancaster Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

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

Is Marathon or Lancaster a more walkable city?

Marathon and Lancaster are respectable 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.

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 Marathon Worth Visiting? and Is Lancaster Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Lancaster or Marathon?

How long in Marathon or Lancaster?

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

Families should spend more time in Marathon than Lancaster. 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.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Lancaster 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 Lancaster.

One day in Marathon or Lancaster?

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 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 Marathon or Lancaster?

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.

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 Marathon or Lancaster?

You'll find nightlife and food around the quaint 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.

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 Marathon or Lancaster?

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.

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 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.

When comparing the travel costs between Marathon and Lancaster, we can see that Lancaster 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 Lancaster Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Marathon or Lancaster?

Lancaster has a larger population, and is about 5 times larger than the population of Marathon. When comparing the sizes of Marathon 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 Marathon or Lancaster?

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 Lancaster in the Summer?

Both Lancaster and Marathon are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The summer months attract visitors to Marathon because of the beaches, snorkeling, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Lancaster this time of year.

In July, Marathon is generally a little warmer than Lancaster. Daily temperatures in Marathon average around 84°F (29°C), and Lancaster fluctuates around 77°F (25°C).

It's quite sunny in Lancaster. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Marathon. Marathon usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Lancaster during summer. Marathon gets 328 hours of sunny skies, while Lancaster receives 310 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Marathon usually receives less rain than Lancaster. Marathon gets 3.3 inches (83 mm) of rain, while Lancaster receives 3.6 inches (91 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Marathon or Lancaster in the Autumn?

Both Lancaster and Marathon during the autumn are popular places to visit. The natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Marathon this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Lancaster for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area.

Marathon is much warmer than Lancaster in the autumn. The daily temperature in Marathon averages around 80°F (27°C) in October, and Lancaster fluctuates around 56°F (13°C).

It's quite sunny in Marathon. In the autumn, Marathon often gets more sunshine than Lancaster. Marathon gets 258 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Lancaster receives 194 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Marathon. Marathon usually gets more rain in October than Lancaster. Marathon gets 5.1 inches (129 mm) of rain, while Lancaster receives 2.9 inches (75 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Marathon or Lancaster in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Marathon and Lancaster. Many travelers come to Marathon for the cuisine. Furthermore, many visitors come to Lancaster in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Lancaster can get quite cold in the winter. In the winter, Marathon is much warmer than Lancaster. Typically, the winter temperatures in Marathon in January average around 70°F (21°C), and Lancaster averages at about 30°F (-1°C).

In Marathon, it's very sunny this time of the year. Marathon usually receives more sunshine than Lancaster during winter. Marathon gets 252 hours of sunny skies, while Lancaster receives 153 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Marathon usually receives less rain than Lancaster. Marathon gets 1.7 inches (43 mm) of rain, while Lancaster receives 2.8 inches (72 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Marathon or Lancaster in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Marathon as well as Lancaster. Many visitors come to Marathon in the spring for the beaches and the natural beauty. Additionally, most visitors come to Lancaster for the natural beauty during these months.

In April, Marathon is generally much warmer than Lancaster. Daily temperatures in Marathon average around 77°F (25°C), and Lancaster fluctuates around 53°F (12°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Lancaster. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Marathon this time of the year. In the spring, Marathon often gets more sunshine than Lancaster. Marathon gets 326 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Lancaster receives 237 hours of full sun.

Marathon usually gets less rain in April than Lancaster. Marathon gets 0.8 inches (21 mm) of rain, while Lancaster receives 3.2 inches (82 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Lancaster and Marathon