A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Mazatlan vs. Atlantic City for Nightlife, Attractions, Food, and Beaches

Should you visit Mazatlan or Atlantic City?

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

Should I visit Mazatlan or Atlantic City? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

Mazatlan

Mazatlan is a historical, cultural, and authentic city. It's also known for nightlife, food, and scuba diving and snorkeling. See Mazatlan travel costs.

Atlantic City

Atlantic City is a party-oriented, colorful, and glitzy city. And you can't forget about the beaches, shopping, and nightlife. See Atlantic City travel costs.

Mazatlan and Atlantic City: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Mazatlan or Atlantic City?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Mazatlan. Although Mazatlan and Atlantic City are popular destinations, Mazatlan has more sights and attractions for tourists. Mazatlan is very popular for its museums and attractions, food, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and historical sights, while Atlantic City attracts visitors for its nightlife and resorts. Atlantic City is more touristy than Mazatlan and is known for its casinos, gambling culture, nightlife scene, and wild personality Mazatlan is famous for its historic center, authenticity, and surfing areas. It is also well known for the Malecon.

How is Mazatlan different from Atlantic City?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Mazatlan or Atlantic City?

Mazatlan is well known for its museums and landmarks. However, Atlantic City is not particularly known for its historical sights.

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around Mazatlan. There are colonial buildings around the Centro Historico. You should also check out the Historic Cathedral and the Angela Peralta Theater.

While most people don't head to Atlantic City specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. While most people don't spend their time in museums, there is the Marine Mammal Stranding Center, the African American Heritage Museum, and the Noyes Museum Galleries.

Is the Food Better in Mazatlan or Atlantic City? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Mazatlan is well known for its restaurant scene. Also, Atlantic City is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Mazatlan makes for a great culinary experience. Stewed meats and shrimp are a big part of the cuisine here. Many recipes have a little bit of spice. The restaurants around town are authentic and local, making for a great dining experience.

Atlantic City has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. There are budget buffets around town as well as seafood restaurants and even some fine dining. Salt water taffy is a local specialty that you should pick up while you're in the area.

Is Mazatlan or Atlantic City Better for Nightlife?

Atlantic City is a world-class destination for nightlife and partying. Also, Mazatlan is still popular, but not quite as popular for its evening party scene.

People head to Atlantic City just to party. This is a city that is all about its nightlife scene. Many visitors come here just to party, and you'll find clubs with DJs or bands playing from sunset to sunrise. There are glitzy lounges and dive bars with everything in between. As a gambling town, there are casinos and all-night activities that keep the energy going round the clock.

If you're looking for night time activities Mazatlan has a few options to choose from. There are plenty of bars and clubs around town, particularly along the beach. Like anywhere else, remember to stay cautious late at night around town. This is considered to be one of the less safe parts of Mexico.

Is Mazatlan or Atlantic City Better for Resorts?

Atlantic City is well known for its resorts. However, Mazatlan is not a resort destination.

Atlantic City is known as a popular and fun resort destination. The beach and boardwalk are lined with casinos and resorts. There are many recognizable names such as Harrah's, Bally's, Caesars, Hard Rock, and the Tropicana.

Mazatlan is not a resort destination.

Is Mazatlan or Atlantic City Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Mazatlan is a good destination for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Atlantic City is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Grab a mask and fins and explore the underwater scenery in Mazatlan. Most of the diving takes place around the Pajaros, Venados and Lobos islands. This is where you'll see the most tropical fish.

Atlantic City is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Mazatlan or Atlantic City Better for Beaches?

Mazatlan is well known for its beaches. Also, Atlantic City is still popular, but not quite as popular for the beach.

Many people visit Mazatlan for it's beautiful beaches. There are many stretches of beach around town. Most notable is the 13 miles that run along Malecon where there's a boardwalk. Surfing is also popular in the area.

Atlantic City is a good option for a beach vacation. There's a Boardwalk that runs along the beach and is lined with piers and hotels. The Downtown Beach is the most accessible, and where most tourists hang out. If you're willing to travel a little further, there are some nice beaches nearby such as Margate Beach and Brigantine Beach.

Is Mazatlan or Atlantic City Better for its Old Town?

Mazatlan is well known for its historic old town. However, Atlantic City does not have a historic old town.

There are many historical things to see in the old town of Mazatlan. It's a historic port city with a charming colonial old town.

Atlantic City does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Mazatlan or Atlantic City?

Shopping is a popular activity in both Atlantic City and Mazatlan.

Mazatlan offers some nice shopping areas. There are local shops, big box stores, and souvenir vendors where you can pick up anything you may need or items to commemorate your trip.

Atlantic City has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. You'll find many souvenir shops along the boardwalk. There's also a Tangier Outlet Mall in the area. Some of the hotels such as the Tropicana have their own shopping areas as well.

Is Mazatlan or Atlantic City Better for Families?

Mazatlan is a good destination for its family-friendly activities. However, Atlantic City is not particularly known for its kid-friendly activities.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Mazatlan. Kids will enjoy the all-inclusive resorts and the waterfront setting. There are also many cultural opportunities such as markets, history, and shows. The food is very kid-friendly as well.

For families, Atlantic City is not always the best place to visit. Most families avoid this area for more family-friendly beaches, but if you find yourself in the area, you can check out Ripley's Believe It or Not or go on a dolphin cruise. Also popular is Steel Pier, which has rides for all ages.

Is Mazatlan or Atlantic City Better for Couples?

With fun activities for couples, both Mazatlan and Atlantic City make for a nice place to visit.

Mazatlan makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. The resorts are romantic and the beaches are stunning. If you're looking for an idyllic escape that also has culture, authenticity, and great food, then this is your spot.

Atlantic City is a good city for couples to visit. It's not exactly known for its romance, but there are casinos, hotels, and a beaches that are fun to visit. You'll also find several spas and sunset cruises in the area.

Is Mazatlan or Atlantic City Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Mazatlan is well known for backpackers. Also, Atlantic City is still popular, but not quite as popular for backpackers and budget travelers.

Backpackers come from all over to visit Mazatlan. The laid back atmosphere makes this a great stopover for backpackers who want to experience the Mexican culture. Stick to the touristy areas if possible.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Atlantic City. There is a hostel in the area. You'll also find a younger crowd and plenty of partying.

Is Mazatlan or Atlantic City Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

You'll find somewhat comparable public transit options in both Mazatlan and Atlantic City.

You'll find some public transit in Mazatlan, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There are city buses around town.

While Atlantic City offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. The Jitney are shuttle buses that runs from one end of the city to the other. They pass by most of the hotels and casinos along Pacific Avenue.

Is Mazatlan or Atlantic City a more walkable city?

Mazatlan and Atlantic City both are superb when exploring on foot.

Mazatlan is a very walkable city. The city is relatively walkable.

Atlantic City is a very walkable destination. Many of the hotels are walkable and located near the boardwalk.

For even more information, also check out Is Mazatlan Worth Visiting? and Is Atlantic City Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Atlantic City or Mazatlan?

How long in Mazatlan or Atlantic City?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Mazatlan and Atlantic City. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Mazatlan than in Atlantic City. Usually, 3-5 days is a good amount of time for Mazatlan, and 1-3 days is enough time in Atlantic City.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Mazatlan than Atlantic City 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 Mazatlan.

One day in Mazatlan or Atlantic City?

Many travelers enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the cultural destination of Mazatlan. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. 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 city of Atlantic City offers nightlife and food. It's also a relaxing resort destination. 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 Mazatlan or Atlantic City?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Mazatlan. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. 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.

Atlantic City 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. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Atlantic City, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Mazatlan or Atlantic City?

Many travelers enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling when visiting the historical destination of Mazatlan. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. This city 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.

Atlantic City is a popular choice for travelers. It's no surprise that nightlife is why people visit. 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 Mazatlan or Atlantic City?

You'll find scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping around the city of Mazatlan. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Atlantic City is a great place to explore. It's no surprise that nightlife is why people visit. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. 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 Food and Culinary Tours in Mexico, The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Mexico, The Best Wildlife Tours to United States of America, and The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in United States of America.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Mazatlan or Atlantic City?

Mazatlan has a larger population, and is about 9 times larger than the population of Atlantic City. When comparing the sizes of Mazatlan and Atlantic City, 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 Mazatlan or Atlantic City?

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 Mazatlan or Atlantic City in the Summer?

Both Atlantic City and Mazatlan are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Mazatlan for the beaches, snorkeling, and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Atlantic City because of the beaches and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Mazatlan is generally a little warmer than Atlantic City. Daily temperatures in Mazatlan average around 29°C (83°F), and Atlantic City fluctuates around 75°F (24°C).

It's quite sunny in Atlantic City. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Mazatlan. Mazatlan usually receives less sunshine than Atlantic City during summer. Mazatlan gets 216 hours of sunny skies, while Atlantic City receives 273 hours of full sun in the summer.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Atlantic City. It's quite rainy in Mazatlan. In July, Mazatlan usually receives more rain than Atlantic City. Mazatlan gets 199 mm (7.8 in) of rain, while Atlantic City receives 4.4 inches (112 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Mazatlan or Atlantic City in the Autumn?

Both Atlantic City and Mazatlan during the autumn are popular places to visit. The autumn months attract visitors to Mazatlan because of the shopping scene. Also, the shopping scene are the main draw to Atlantic City this time of year.

Mazatlan is much warmer than Atlantic City in the autumn. The daily temperature in Mazatlan averages around 27°C (81°F) in October, and Atlantic City fluctuates around 56°F (13°C).

It's quite sunny in Mazatlan. In the autumn, Mazatlan often gets more sunshine than Atlantic City. Mazatlan gets 233 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Atlantic City receives 197 hours of full sun.

Mazatlan usually gets more rain in October than Atlantic City. Mazatlan gets 86 mm (3.4 in) of rain, while Atlantic City receives 2.6 inches (67 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Mazatlan or Atlantic City in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Mazatlan and Atlantic City. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Mazatlan this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Atlantic City for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Atlantic City. In the winter, Mazatlan is much warmer than Atlantic City. Typically, the winter temperatures in Mazatlan in January average around 20°C (67°F), and Atlantic City averages at about 31°F (-0°C).

In Mazatlan, it's very sunny this time of the year. Mazatlan usually receives more sunshine than Atlantic City during winter. Mazatlan gets 203 hours of sunny skies, while Atlantic City receives 146 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Mazatlan usually receives less rain than Atlantic City. Mazatlan gets 17 mm (0.7 in) of rain, while Atlantic City receives 3.4 inches (87 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Mazatlan or Atlantic City in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Mazatlan as well as Atlantic City. Many travelers come to Mazatlan for the beaches. Also, many visitors come to Atlantic City in the spring for the beaches.

In April, Mazatlan is generally much warmer than Atlantic City. Daily temperatures in Mazatlan average around 22°C (72°F), and Atlantic City fluctuates around 51°F (10°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Atlantic City. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Mazatlan this time of the year. In the spring, Mazatlan often gets more sunshine than Atlantic City. Mazatlan gets 250 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Atlantic City receives 217 hours of full sun.

Mazatlan usually gets less rain in April than Atlantic City. Mazatlan gets 1 mm (0 in) of rain, while Atlantic City receives 3.2 inches (82 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Atlantic City and Mazatlan