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

Should you visit Mazatlan or Detroit?

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

Should I visit Mazatlan or Detroit? 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 cultural, authentic, and historical city. Visitors also love the food, scuba diving and snorkeling, and beaches. See Mazatlan travel costs.

Detroit

Detroit is a hardworking, overlooked , and under-rated city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. And you can't forget about the food, shopping, and museums. See Detroit travel costs.

Mazatlan and Detroit: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Mazatlan or Detroit?

You'll generally find more things to do in Detroit than Mazatlan. Detroit is bigger than Mazatlan, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Detroit is better known for its nightlife, music, and big city activities, while Mazatlan is more popular for its museums and attractions, food, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and historical sights. Mazatlan is more touristy than Detroit and is popular for its historic center, authenticity, and surfing areas. Detroit is well known for its Motown music, blue collar atmosphere, and influential auto industry. Also, Detroit is famous for the Henry Ford Experience.

How is Mazatlan different from Detroit?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Mazatlan is a very popular place for its museums and history. Also, Detroit is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its museums and landmarks.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Mazatlan can be an interesting and educational experience. There are colonial buildings around the Centro Historico. You should also check out the Historic Cathedral and the Angela Peralta Theater.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Detroit. Popular museums around town include the Detroit Institute of Arts, the Detroit Historical Museum, and the Michigan Science Center.

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

Mazatlan is a very popular place for its restaurants. Also, Detroit is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

Mazatlan has a huge number of terrific restaurants. 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.

There are many up and coming restaurants in the Detroit area. There's a local flavor to the food with a number of classic dishes that are popular like square pizza, Coney dogs, and corned beef egg rolls.

Is Mazatlan or Detroit Better for Nightlife?

Detroit is well known for nightlife and partying. Also, Mazatlan is still popular, but not quite as popular for its evening party scene.

Detroit is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. It's long history in music still influences the nightlife scene. You'll find bars, clubs, and other activities around town. Greektown and Midtown are both popular neighborhoods during the evening.

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 Detroit Better for Music?

Detroit is a world-class destination for its live music scene. However, Mazatlan is not a live music destination.

Live music, and music in many other forms, is everyone in Detroit Few cities have such an influential music industry. It's home to Motown and is well known for its soul music, jazz, blues, and rap.

Mazatlan is not a live music destination.

Is Mazatlan or Detroit Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Mazatlan is a nice place to visit for its diving and snorkeling. However, Detroit is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Mazatlan has a few areas where visitors often go scuba diving or snorkeling. Most of the diving takes place around the Pajaros, Venados and Lobos islands. This is where you'll see the most tropical fish.

Detroit is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Mazatlan or Detroit Better for Beaches?

Mazatlan is a very popular place for the beach. However, Detroit is not a beach destination.

You'll have a great beach vacation in Mazatlan. 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.

Detroit is not a beach destination.

Is Mazatlan or Detroit Better for its Old Town?

Mazatlan is a very popular place for its old town. However, Detroit does not have a historic old town.

Many visitors go to Mazatlan to see the historical old town. It's a historic port city with a charming colonial old town.

Detroit does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Mazatlan or Detroit?

Shopping is a popular activity in both Detroit 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.

Detroit has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. There are several shopping streets like Woodward Avenue. There are also outlet malls, shopping centers, and Eastern Market.

Is Mazatlan or Detroit Better for Families?

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Mazatlan or Detroit.

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.

Detroit offers lots of family activities. Head to the Detroit Zoo or check out one of the amusement parks in the area. Kids will enjoy a visit to Legoland and there's also the Sea Life Michigan Aquarium. You could also spend some time visiting the unique museums in the area.

Is Mazatlan or Detroit Better for Couples?

Mazatlan is a nice place to visit for its romantic activities. However, Detroit is lacking in good options for couples.

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.

Detroit is not always the best place to visit for a couple. It's not a city that usually brings to mind romance, but if you find yourself here for a couple of days, there's a RiverWalk area and some interesting local neighborhoods.

Is Mazatlan or Detroit Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Mazatlan is a very popular place for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Detroit is lacking in good options for backpackers.

Many backpackers 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.

Detroit is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. There are a couple of hostels in the area, but this is still an often overlooked city.

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

Mazatlan is a nice place to visit for times when you don't have a car. However, Detroit is lacking in good options for its public transit.

Mazatlan has some public transit options. There are city buses around town.

Public transit is generally limited in Detroit. There's a streetcar and bus system, but the car is still king in Motor City.

Is Mazatlan or Detroit a more walkable city?

Mazatlan is a very popular place for its high level of walkability. Also, Detroit is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its ease of walking around.

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

Detroit is a somewhat walkable city. There are parts of downtown Detroit that are walkable, but most people need a car to get around.

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

Should I spend more time in Detroit or Mazatlan?

How long in Mazatlan or Detroit?

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

Families should spend more time in Mazatlan than Detroit. 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 Detroit. 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 Detroit 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 Detroit?

In Mazatlan, you'll find shopping and museums. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. This city offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

The city of Detroit offers museums and nightlife. 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 Detroit?

In Mazatlan, you'll find museums and nightlife. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Visiting the old town is also a must. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

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

Five days in Mazatlan or Detroit?

Mazatlan is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Mazatlan has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

Detroit is a popular choice for travelers. It's no surprise that live music 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 Detroit?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Mazatlan. Many people enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling when visiting Mazatlan. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

Detroit is a great place to explore. It's no surprise that live music is why people visit. 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, Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in United States of America, and The Best Coach Bus Tours in United States of America.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Mazatlan and Detroit, we can see that Detroit 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 Detroit would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Detroit 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 Detroit Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Mazatlan or Detroit?

Detroit has a larger population, and is about 3 times larger than the population of Mazatlan. When comparing the sizes of Mazatlan and Detroit, 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 Detroit?

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 Mazatlan or Detroit in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Mazatlan as well as Detroit. Many travelers come to Mazatlan for the beaches, snorkeling, and the family-friendly experiences. Additionally, many visitors come to Detroit in the summer for the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

Mazatlan is a little warmer than Detroit in the summer. The daily temperature in Mazatlan averages around 29°C (83°F) in July, and Detroit fluctuates around 74°F (24°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Detroit. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Mazatlan this time of the year. In the summer, Mazatlan often gets less sunshine than Detroit. Mazatlan gets 216 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Detroit receives 319 hours of full sun.

Mazatlan receives a lot of rain in the summer. Mazatlan usually gets more rain in July than Detroit. Mazatlan gets 199 mm (7.8 in) of rain, while Detroit receives 3.4 inches (85 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Mazatlan or Detroit in the Autumn?

Both Detroit and Mazatlan are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Mazatlan in the autumn for the shopping scene. Also, most visitors come to Detroit for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the music scene during these months.

In the autumn, Mazatlan is much warmer than Detroit. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Mazatlan in October average around 27°C (81°F), and Detroit averages at about 54°F (12°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Mazatlan. Mazatlan usually receives more sunshine than Detroit during autumn. Mazatlan gets 233 hours of sunny skies, while Detroit receives 172 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Mazatlan usually receives more rain than Detroit. Mazatlan gets 86 mm (3.4 in) of rain, while Detroit receives 2.3 inches (58 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Mazatlan or Detroit in the Winter?

Both Detroit and Mazatlan during the winter are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Mazatlan for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Detroit because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

The weather in Detroit can be very cold. In January, Mazatlan is generally much warmer than Detroit. Daily temperatures in Mazatlan average around 20°C (67°F), and Detroit fluctuates around 25°F (-4°C).

It's quite sunny in Mazatlan. In the winter, Mazatlan often gets more sunshine than Detroit. Mazatlan gets 203 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Detroit receives 120 hours of full sun.

Mazatlan usually gets less rain in January than Detroit. Mazatlan gets 17 mm (0.7 in) of rain, while Detroit receives 2 inches (50 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Mazatlan or Detroit in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Mazatlan and Detroit. The spring months attract visitors to Mazatlan because of the beaches. Also, the activities around the city are the main draw to Detroit this time of year.

Mazatlan is much warmer than Detroit in the spring. The daily temperature in Mazatlan averages around 22°C (72°F) in April, and Detroit fluctuates around 49°F (9°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Detroit this time of the year. In Mazatlan, it's very sunny this time of the year. Mazatlan usually receives more sunshine than Detroit during spring. Mazatlan gets 250 hours of sunny skies, while Detroit receives 223 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Mazatlan usually receives less rain than Detroit. Mazatlan gets 1 mm (0 in) of rain, while Detroit receives 3.2 inches (80 mm) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Detroit and Mazatlan