A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Marathon vs. Niagara Falls for Families, Couples, Food, and Nightlife

Should you visit Marathon or Niagara Falls?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Marathon or Niagara Falls, 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 nightlife, food, and scuba diving and snorkeling. See Marathon travel costs.

Niagara Falls

Niagara Falls is a iconic, breathtaking, and impressive city. Niagara Falls is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Other reasons to visit include shopping, nightlife, and food. See Niagara Falls travel costs.

Marathon and Niagara Falls: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Marathon or Niagara Falls?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Niagara Falls. Although Marathon and Niagara Falls are popular destinations, Niagara Falls has more sights and attractions for tourists. Niagara Falls is very popular for its museums and attractions, hiking, and shopping, while Marathon attracts visitors for its resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, and beaches. Niagara Falls is more touristy than Marathon and is popular for the large volume of water that flows over it. It is also well known for the Journey Behind the Falls. Marathon is famous for its Loggerhead sea turtles, the Dolphin Research Center, Sombrero Beach, and its many places to scuba dive and snorkel.

How is Marathon different from Niagara Falls?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Niagara Falls is adequate for its historical sights. However, Marathon does not have museums and landmarks.

While most people don't head to Niagara Falls specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. The Niagara Falls History Museum is one of the best museums in the area. There are also more touristy museums and attractions that you can visit as well. There's also a butterfly conservancy that is worth checking out.

Marathon does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Both Marathon and Niagara Falls 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 Niagara Falls. It's an iconic Canadian destination so, of course, you should try all things Canadian while you're in town. Maple syrup, poutine, butter tart, and beavertail (fried dough) are all things that should be on your list. Also make sure you sample some of the local game meat.

Is Marathon or Niagara Falls Better for Nightlife?

The vibe at night is nice in both Marathon and Niagara Falls.

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 Niagara Falls. There's a decent concentration of clubs, pubs, and bars around town that keep things fun late into the evening.

Is Marathon or Niagara Falls Better for Resorts?

Marathon is notable for its resorts. However, Niagara Falls 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.

Niagara Falls is not a resort destination.

Is Marathon or Niagara Falls Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Marathon is a popular place for its diving and snorkeling. However, Niagara Falls 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.

Niagara Falls is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Marathon or Niagara Falls Better for Beaches?

Marathon is notable for the beach. However, Niagara Falls 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.

Niagara Falls is not a beach destination.

Is Marathon or Niagara Falls Better for Hiking?

Niagara Falls is great for hiking. However, Marathon is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors go to Niagara Falls for the hiking trails. The nearby area is filled with hiking trails that let you escape into nature and enjoy impressive views.

Marathon is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Marathon or Niagara Falls?

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

Plenty of visitors enjoy shopping while in Niagara Falls. You'll find touristy souvenir shops as well as outlets and malls nearby.

Marathon is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Marathon or Niagara Falls More Beautiful?

Marathon and Niagara Falls both are comparable with their very good 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 Niagara Falls is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. It's an impressive sight and the Canadian side offers the best views. It's definitely something you should try and see at least once.

Is Marathon or Niagara Falls Better for Families?

Niagara Falls is a must-visit destination for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Marathon is not as popular, but is still a nice island for its family-friendly activities.

Niagara Falls is an amazing family-friendly city to visit. The views and setting are spectacular, and kids will love the boat tours or taking a ride on the Whirlpool Aero Car. There's also an indoor waterpark, a butterfly conservatory, and plenty of nature to explore.

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.

Is Marathon or Niagara Falls Better for Couples?

Marathon and Niagara Falls are both very good 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.

Niagara Falls is a very popular place to visit for couples. The setting has long brought to mind romance, and to this day couples still honeymoon at this iconic destination. There are boat tours, nature trails, luxury hotels, and even wineries to explore.

Is Marathon or Niagara Falls Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Niagara Falls 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 Niagara Falls. There's a hostel or two where you can stay for cheap and meet other travelers.

Marathon is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

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

Niagara Falls 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 Niagara Falls offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There is a bus system through town.

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

Is Marathon or Niagara Falls a more walkable city?

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

Niagara Falls is somewhat walkable. Most of the attractions and close together by the falls, so it's relatively walkable.

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 Niagara Falls Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Niagara Falls or Marathon?

How long in Marathon or Niagara Falls?

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

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Niagara Falls 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 Niagara Falls.

One day in Marathon or Niagara Falls?

Many travelers enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and nightlife when visiting the relaxing destination of Marathon. It's also a relaxing resort destination. Your budget might influence how long you stay. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

The beautiful city of Niagara Falls offers nightlife and food. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. 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 Niagara Falls?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Marathon. Most people come for the beaches. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

Niagara Falls 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 spend some time hiking while you're in the area. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Niagara Falls, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Marathon or Niagara Falls?

Many travelers enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling when visiting the relaxing destination of Marathon. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. This island offers a variety of activities to choose from. If you have five days, this is a great place to go. Five days is usually enough time to experience most activities.

Niagara Falls 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 Niagara Falls?

Many travelers enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and nightlife when visiting the beautiful island of Marathon. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. Plenty of people spend one week in the area when traveling.So, one week is just the right amount of time to spend here. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Niagara Falls is a great place to explore. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. 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 Sightseeing Tours in Canada, and The Best Camping Tours in Canada.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Marathon and Niagara Falls, we can see that Marathon is more expensive. And not only is Niagara Falls much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Niagara Falls would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Niagara Falls 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 Niagara Falls.

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

Which is Bigger, Marathon or Niagara Falls?

Niagara Falls has a larger population, and is about 8 times larger than the population of Marathon. When comparing the sizes of Marathon and Niagara Falls, 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 Niagara Falls?

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 Niagara Falls in the Summer?

Both Niagara Falls and Marathon during the summer are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Marathon in the summer for the beaches, snorkeling, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Niagara Falls for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In the summer, Marathon is a little warmer than Niagara Falls. Typically, the summer temperatures in Marathon in July average around 84°F (29°C), and Niagara Falls averages at about 23°C (74°F).

In Niagara Falls, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Marathon. In the summer, Marathon often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Niagara Falls. Marathon gets 328 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Niagara Falls receives 306 hours of full sun.

Marathon usually gets more rain in July than Niagara Falls. Marathon gets 3.3 inches (83 mm) of rain, while Niagara Falls receives 69 mm (2.7 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Marathon or Niagara Falls in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Marathon and Niagara Falls. Most visitors come to Marathon for the natural beauty of the area during these months. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Niagara Falls because of the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Marathon is generally much warmer than Niagara Falls. Daily temperatures in Marathon average around 80°F (27°C), and Niagara Falls fluctuates around 12°C (54°F).

In Marathon, it's very sunny this time of the year. Marathon usually receives more sunshine than Niagara Falls during autumn. Marathon gets 258 hours of sunny skies, while Niagara Falls receives 148 hours of full sun in the autumn.

Marathon gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In October, Marathon usually receives more rain than Niagara Falls. Marathon gets 5.1 inches (129 mm) of rain, while Niagara Falls receives 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Marathon or Niagara Falls in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Marathon as well as Niagara Falls. 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 Niagara Falls this time of year.

It's quite cold in Niagara Falls in the winter. Marathon is much warmer than Niagara Falls in the winter. The daily temperature in Marathon averages around 70°F (21°C) in January, and Niagara Falls fluctuates around -4°C (26°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Marathon this time of the year. In the winter, Marathon often gets more sunshine than Niagara Falls. Marathon gets 252 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Niagara Falls receives 89 hours of full sun.

Marathon usually gets less rain in January than Niagara Falls. Marathon gets 1.7 inches (43 mm) of rain, while Niagara Falls receives 52 mm (2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Marathon or Niagara Falls in the Spring?

Both Niagara Falls and Marathon are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The beaches and the natural beauty are the main draw to Marathon this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Niagara Falls for the natural beauty.

In the spring, Marathon is much warmer than Niagara Falls. Typically, the spring temperatures in Marathon in April average around 77°F (25°C), and Niagara Falls averages at about 10°C (49°F).

It's quite sunny in Niagara Falls. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Marathon. Marathon usually receives more sunshine than Niagara Falls during spring. Marathon gets 326 hours of sunny skies, while Niagara Falls receives 203 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Marathon usually receives less rain than Niagara Falls. Marathon gets 0.8 inches (21 mm) of rain, while Niagara Falls receives 63 mm (2.5 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Niagara Falls and Marathon