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

Should you visit Marathon or New Orleans?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Marathon or New Orleans, 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.

New Orleans

New Orleans is a festive, vibrant, and energetic city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. This is a quaint and attractive place to visit, too. Other reasons to visit include nightlife, live music, and food. See New Orleans travel costs.

Marathon and New Orleans: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Marathon or New Orleans?

Tourists will generally find more to do in New Orleans. Although Marathon and New Orleans are both popular with visitors, New Orleans has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. New Orleans is more popular for its food, nightlife, music, historical sights, shopping, big city activities, and quaint atmosphere, while Marathon is known for its resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and impressive beauty. New Orleans is more touristy than Marathon and is known for its jazz festivals, local cuisine, quaint balconies, and world class Mardi Gras parties. It is also home to The French Quarter. Marathon is popular for its Loggerhead sea turtles, the Dolphin Research Center, Sombrero Beach, and its many places to scuba dive and snorkel.

The French Quarter

How is Marathon different from New Orleans?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

New Orleans is a must-visit destination for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Marathon is not as popular, but is still a nice island for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Known for it's food and restaurant scene, New Orleans is always at the top of any foodie's travel list. It has rapidly grown into one of the United State's most well known foodie destinations. It's the birthplace of bananas foster and popular for it's gumbo, crawfish etouffee, jambalaya, and red beans and rice. While there are a number of celebrity chefs from New Orleans, you'll also find many local restaurants that aren't as well known but are equally worth visiting.

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 New Orleans Better for Nightlife?

New Orleans is a must-visit destination for nightlife. Also, Marathon is not as popular, but is still a nice island for nightlife and partying.

New Orleans is a world class party destination. The nightlife scene is at its best during Mardi Gras. But year-round you'll find Bachelor and Bachelorette parties, spring breakers, and anyone who wants to enjoy a crazy time heads to New Orleans. New Orleans is a destination that attracts partiers any time of the year, and the French Quarter is the place to be if you're looking for a party.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Marathon. Popular nightlife venues include JJ’s Dog House & Sports Bar, Brass Monkey, and Cabana Club.

Is Marathon or New Orleans Better for Music?

New Orleans is a must-visit destination for live music. However, Marathon is not a live music destination.

New Orleans is known as a music capital around the world. The city is known for its music festivals that feature jazz, blues, and many other types of live music. The Jazz Festival is a great time to visit.

Marathon is not a live music destination.

Is Marathon or New Orleans Better for Resorts?

Marathon is an excellent place to visit for its luxury resorts. However, New Orleans is not a resort destination.

In Marathon, you'll find some of the region's top resorts. Popular resorts include Isla Bella Beach Resort and Tranquility Bay Resort.

New Orleans is not a resort destination.

Is Marathon or New Orleans Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Marathon is a island with good options for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, New Orleans is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

It's fun to get in the water and check out the local marine life in Marathon. 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.

New Orleans is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Marathon or New Orleans Better for Beaches?

Marathon is an excellent place to visit for its beaches. However, New Orleans is not a beach destination.

The beaches at Marathon attract visitors from all over. Sombrero Beach is a popular spot for picnics, swimming and seeing the Loggerhead Turtles from April through October.

New Orleans is not a beach destination.

Is Marathon or New Orleans Better for its Old Town?

New Orleans is great for its historic old town. However, Marathon does not have a historic old town.

Many visitors go to New Orleans to see the historical old town. The French Quarter is filled with old architecture and beautiful historic landmarks.

Marathon does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Marathon or New Orleans?

New Orleans is adequate for shopping. However, Marathon is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

New Orleans is a good destination for shopping. New Orleans shopping is mostly centered around shopping malls and chain stores.

Marathon is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Marathon or New Orleans More Beautiful?

Marathon is an excellent place to visit for its scenery and beauty. However, New Orleans 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.

New Orleans is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Marathon or New Orleans Better for Families?

Marathon is an excellent place to visit for its kid-friendly activities. However, New Orleans is lacking in options 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.

New Orleans doesn't usually come to mind when thinking about kid-friendly destinations. While there are some family-friendly activities in New Orleans like a zoo and several great parks, the city is more known for its parties and nightlife scene. Particularly during certain seasons, most people choose to visit New Orleans without kids.

Is Marathon or New Orleans Better for Couples?

Marathon is an excellent place to visit for romance. Also, New Orleans is not quite as popular, but is fairly good 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.

New Orleans makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Couples who enjoy a lively evening, fun festivals, and exploring absolutely amazing restaurants will enjoy a visit to New Orleans. It has a festive and unique atmosphere any time of the year. There are also nice hotels and beautiful parks.

Is Marathon or New Orleans Better for Students?

New Orleans is a nice place to visit for its student-friendly activities. However, Marathon is not popular with students.

It's common for students to visit New Orleans. Students head to New Orleans to enjoy spring break and Mardi Gras.

Marathon is not popular with students.

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

New Orleans 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 New Orleans. The city has streetcar lines and bus lines that you can use, but you'll want to have a car if you want to venture outside of these main areas.

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

Is Marathon or New Orleans a more walkable city?

New Orleans is a nice place to visit for its walkability. However, Marathon is not a good destination for its high level of walkability.

New Orleans is somewhat walkable. If you stick to the French Quarter and downtown areas, most things are walkable in New Orleans.

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 New Orleans Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in New Orleans or Marathon?

How long in Marathon or New Orleans?

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

Families should spend more time in Marathon than New Orleans. 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 New Orleans 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 New Orleans.

One day in Marathon or New Orleans?

Visitors enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the quaint island of Marathon. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

The city of New Orleans offers nightlife and live music. 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.

A weekend in Marathon or New Orleans?

Visitors enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling when visiting the beautiful destination of Marathon. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. This island offers something for everyone. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

New Orleans 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. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. While some people choose to spend more or less time in New Orleans, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Marathon or New Orleans?

Visitors enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and nightlife when visiting the quaint island of Marathon. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. Many people spend five days here.If you enjoy all that's offered here, then five days is just the right amount of time to spend here. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

New Orleans 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 New Orleans?

Visitors enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the destination of Marathon. Anyone can find something fun to do here. This is a popular place to visit for one week. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. In one week, you should have a good grasp of this island.

New Orleans is a great place to explore. Visiting the old town is also a must. 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.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Marathon or New Orleans?

New Orleans has a larger population, and is about 50 times larger than the population of Marathon. When comparing the sizes of Marathon and New Orleans, 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 New Orleans?

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 New Orleans in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Marathon and New Orleans. The beaches, snorkeling, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Marathon this time of year. Also, many travelers come to New Orleans for the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

Marathon is around the same temperature as New Orleans in the summer. The daily temperature in Marathon averages around 84°F (29°C) in July, and New Orleans fluctuates around 82°F (28°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in New Orleans this time of the year. In Marathon, it's very sunny this time of the year. Marathon usually receives more sunshine than New Orleans during summer. Marathon gets 328 hours of sunny skies, while New Orleans receives 264 hours of full sun in the summer.

New Orleans receives a lot of rain in the summer. In July, Marathon usually receives less rain than New Orleans. Marathon gets 3.3 inches (83 mm) of rain, while New Orleans receives 5.9 inches (149 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Marathon or New Orleans in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Marathon as well as New Orleans. Many travelers come to Marathon for the natural beauty of the area. Also, many visitors come to New Orleans in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the music scene.

In the autumn, Marathon is a little warmer than New Orleans. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Marathon in October average around 80°F (27°C), and New Orleans averages at about 69°F (21°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in New Orleans. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Marathon this time of the year. In the autumn, Marathon often gets around the same amount of sunshine as New Orleans. Marathon gets 258 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while New Orleans receives 240 hours of full sun.

Marathon receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Marathon usually gets more rain in October than New Orleans. Marathon gets 5.1 inches (129 mm) of rain, while New Orleans receives 3 inches (77 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Marathon or New Orleans in the Winter?

Both New Orleans and Marathon are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Marathon in the winter for the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to New Orleans for the shopping scene and the cuisine during these months.

In January, Marathon is generally much warmer than New Orleans. Daily temperatures in Marathon average around 70°F (21°C), and New Orleans fluctuates around 51°F (11°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Marathon. Marathon usually receives more sunshine than New Orleans during winter. Marathon gets 252 hours of sunny skies, while New Orleans receives 158 hours of full sun in the winter.

It rains a lot this time of the year in New Orleans. In January, Marathon usually receives less rain than New Orleans. Marathon gets 1.7 inches (43 mm) of rain, while New Orleans receives 5.2 inches (131 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Marathon or New Orleans in the Spring?

Both New Orleans and Marathon during the spring are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Marathon for the beaches and the natural beauty during these months. Furthermore, the spring months attract visitors to New Orleans because of the activities around the city.

Marathon is a little warmer than New Orleans in the spring. The daily temperature in Marathon averages around 77°F (25°C) in April, and New Orleans fluctuates around 68°F (20°C).

In New Orleans, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Marathon. In the spring, Marathon often gets more sunshine than New Orleans. Marathon gets 326 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while New Orleans receives 254 hours of full sun.

New Orleans gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Marathon usually gets less rain in April than New Orleans. Marathon gets 0.8 inches (21 mm) of rain, while New Orleans receives 4.5 inches (114 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for New Orleans and Marathon