A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Mexico City vs. Cumberland Island National Seashore for Families, Couples, and Backpackers

Should you visit Mexico City or Cumberland Island National Seashore?

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

Should I visit Mexico City or Cumberland Island National Seashore? 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.

Mexico City

Mexico City is a diverse, vibrant, and dynamic city. It's an amazing and huge city with tons of activities and things to do. Other reasons to visit include museums, nightlife, and food. See Mexico City travel costs.

Cumberland Island National Seashore

Cumberland Island National Seashore is a secluded, undeveloped, and untouched island. With stunning beauty, Cumberland Island National Seashore attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the beaches and hiking. See Cumberland Island National Seashore travel costs.

Mexico City and Cumberland Island National Seashore: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Mexico City or Cumberland Island National Seashore?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Mexico City than Cumberland Island National Seashore, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Mexico City is better known for its museums and attractions, food, nightlife, historical sights, shopping, and big city activities, while Cumberland Island National Seashore is more popular for its beaches, hiking, and impressive beauty. Mexico City is well known for its vibrant street food scene, colorful markets, and historic architecture. Also, Mexico City is famous for Zócalo. Cumberland Island National Seashore is well known for its pristine and undeveloped beaches, miles of hiking trails, and wild horses.

How is Mexico City different from Cumberland Island National Seashore?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Mexico City or Cumberland Island National Seashore?

Mexico City is an amazing city to visit for its historical sights. However, Cumberland Island National Seashore is not known for its sights and museums.

Travelers visit Mexico City from around the world to see its many world-famous attractions. The city is filled with historic buildings, fascinating museums, and interesting landmarks. At the heart of the city is Zócalo, where the country's constitution was signed. Nearby you'll find the National Palace, the Metropolitan Cathedral, and the Templo Mayor. Other interesting museums in the city include the National Museum of Anthropology, the Palace of Fine Arts, and the National History Museum.

Cumberland Island National Seashore offers a few options for museum-goers. There aren't any museums on the island, but on the mainland there's a visitor center as well as the Cumberland Island National Seashore Museum.

Is the Food Better in Mexico City or Cumberland Island National Seashore? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Mexico City is an amazing city to visit for its local flavors and cuisine. However, Cumberland Island National Seashore is not known for its local cuisine and restaurants.

For foodies, Mexico City is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. The city food scene is as diverse as the population itself. There are countless ways to experience the amazing street food, but there are also world class chefs working in award winning restaurants. Make sure you try the chilaquiles, tacos al pastor, and chiles en nogada.

Most people don't head to Cumberland Island National Seashore for a culinary experience, but it does have restaurants to choose from. There are no restaurants on the island, so you need to pack any food that you might need before you arrive.

Is Mexico City or Cumberland Island National Seashore Better for Nightlife?

Mexico City is an amazing city to visit for nightlife. However, Cumberland Island National Seashore is not known for nightlife and partying.

Mexico City has a colorful and one-of-a-kind nightlife scene. It's a huge city, so of course there's no shortage of diverse nightlife activities. Some of the most popular neighborhoods for nightlife include the downtown, La Condesa, and Colonia Juárez. For upscale clubs head to Polanco and for trendy and eclectic venues check out Roma.

People don't go to Cumberland Island National Seashore for the nightlife. Stargazing is amazing on the island, but you're left to your own devices when it comes to evening entertainment options.

Is Mexico City or Cumberland Island National Seashore Better for Beaches?

Cumberland Island National Seashore is very popular for the beach. However, Mexico City is not a beach destination.

Travelers come from around the world to visit the beaches in Cumberland Island National Seashore. There are 17 miles of pristine beaches along the island. You'll also find wild horses and miles of hiking trails. Swimming is popular, but do take note that there are no lifeguards on the island.

Mexico City is not a beach destination.

Is Mexico City or Cumberland Island National Seashore Better for its Old Town?

Mexico City is a popular place for its historic old town. However, Cumberland Island National Seashore does not have a historic old town.

Mexico City is a good destination for visiting its old town. Centro Historico spreads out from Zócalo Plaza, and has many buildings that date back as far as the Aztec period. Many tourists gather here to explore the history and wander down the pedestrian-only Calle Madero.

Cumberland Island National Seashore does not have a historic old town.

Is Mexico City or Cumberland Island National Seashore Better for Hiking?

Cumberland Island National Seashore is very popular for its hiking trails. However, Mexico City is not a hiking destination.

People visit Cumberland Island National Seashore specifically for its hiking, as the natural beauty is well-known. You'll find more than 50 miles of hiking trails on the island. They pass through a number of ecosystems such as wetlands, forests, and beaches. Most visitors come for the day and spend most of their time on the Southend of the island. This is where you'll find the highest concentration of hiking trails. Some of the most popular trails are Dungeness Roadways, River Trail, and Nightingale Trail.

Mexico City is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Mexico City or Cumberland Island National Seashore?

Mexico City is an amazing city to visit for shopping. However, Cumberland Island National Seashore is not known for its shopping opportunities.

People travel from around the world to go shopping in Mexico City. The city has everything from open-air bazaars (tianguis) to modern shopping malls. There are international brands as well as local art galleries, handicrafts, and retail outlets.

Cumberland Island National Seashore has some shopping areas for those that seek them out. There aren't any shops or stores on the island so plan accordingly.

Is Mexico City or Cumberland Island National Seashore More Beautiful?

Cumberland Island National Seashore is an excellent place to visit for its scenery and beauty. However, Mexico City is not a destination known for its beauty.

With stunning beauty, Cumberland Island National Seashore attracts visitors from all around. The barrier island has 17 miles of pristine beaches. It offers a truly beautiful setting that feels undiscovered and untouched.

Mexico City is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Mexico City or Cumberland Island National Seashore Better for Families?

Mexico City is a great city for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Cumberland Island National Seashore is not as popular, but is still a nice island for its family-friendly activities.

Mexico City is a very family-friendly destination. It's a huge city, so there are enough diverse activities to keep everyone entertained. There's even a Six Flags. Popular museums for kids include Papalote Museo del Niño and Museo de Geología. There's also the Acuario Inbursa, and make sure you check out a Lucha Libre show.

Cumberland Island National Seashore is a family-friendly place to visit. In addition to the hiking trails, coastline, and wildlife, the island also has junior ranger programs and educational experiences for kids.

Is Mexico City or Cumberland Island National Seashore Better for Couples?

Cumberland Island National Seashore is an excellent place to visit for couples. Also, Mexico City is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for romance.

Cumberland Island National Seashore makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Couples will appreciate the pristine coastline, beautiful wildlife, and secluded hiking trails. Many people visit the island as a day trip, but it's also possible to stay at one of the island's campgrounds. For a truly romantic experience you could also stay at the Greyfield Inn.

Mexico City is a nice destination for couples. The city is filled with parks where you can enjoy a picnic, museums that are fascinating to walk through, and cultural activities that are one-of-a-kind. You can ride on a gondola in Xochimilco or spend the day exploring the amazing food scene.

Is Mexico City or Cumberland Island National Seashore Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Mexico City and Cumberland Island National Seashore are both high quality destinations for backpackers.

Plenty of budget travelers and backpackers visit Mexico City. It's a big city with a wonderful atmosphere and many hostels. Backpackers who want to experience the culture, food, and personality of Mexico will love a visit here.

Backpackers come from all over to visit Cumberland Island National Seashore. Backpackers appreciate the secluded and pristine atmosphere. There are miles of hiking trails as well as campgrounds on the island for those who want to stay overnight.

Is Mexico City or Cumberland Island National Seashore Better for Students?

Mexico City is a great city for its student-friendly activities. However, Cumberland Island National Seashore is not popular with students.

Mexico City is a very popular city for students and younger travelers. International students love the art, architecture, food, and culture that this colorful city has to offer.

Cumberland Island National Seashore is not popular with students.

Is Mexico City or Cumberland Island National Seashore Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Mexico City is a great city for times when you don't have a car. However, Cumberland Island National Seashore is not known for its public transit.

Many visitors rely on the effecient and affordable public transportation in Mexico City. The city has a complex and comprehensive public transit system that includes a metro, metrobus, and local buses.

Public transit is generally limited in Cumberland Island National Seashore. The only way to the island is by ferry. It leaves from the town of St. Marys and advanced reservations are recommended.

Is Mexico City or Cumberland Island National Seashore a more walkable city?

Cumberland Island National Seashore is a popular place for its ease of walking around. However, Mexico City is lacking in options for its walkability.

Cumberland Island National Seashore is a somewhat walkable island. There are many hikes on the island, but the whole island is 18 miles long, making it difficult to walk in one day. Many visitors spend their time near the campgrounds where there's the highest concentration of hiking trails. This area is known as Sea Camp.

Mexico City is generally not very walkable. While you can walk within many neighborhoods, such as the historic city center, it's impossible to walk between neighborhoods and in many parts of the city.

For even more information, also check out Is Mexico City Worth Visiting? and Is Cumberland Island National Seashore Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Cumberland Island National Seashore or Mexico City?

How long in Mexico City or Cumberland Island National Seashore?

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

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

Couples should spend more time in Cumberland Island National Seashore than Mexico City. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Cumberland Island National Seashore that are perfect for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Mexico City than Cumberland Island National Seashore 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 Mexico City.

One day in Mexico City or Cumberland Island National Seashore?

Because Mexico City is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Visitors enjoy the when visiting the secluded island of Cumberland Island National Seashore. It's also a great beach destination, too. One day should give you a good understanding of everything this island has to offer. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A weekend in Mexico City or Cumberland Island National Seashore?

Many people visit Mexico City for a weekend. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Visitors enjoy the when visiting the secluded destination of Cumberland Island National Seashore. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. This island offers something for everyone. Plenty of people spend a weekend in the area when traveling. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

Five days in Mexico City or Cumberland Island National Seashore?

Mexico City is a popular place to visit. Because Mexico City is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. Five days is usually enough time to experience most activities.

The undeveloped island of Cumberland Island National Seashore offers . You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

A week in Mexico City or Cumberland Island National Seashore?

Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Mexico City. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Many people enjoy the when visiting Cumberland Island National Seashore. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Most people come for the beaches. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 2-Week Tours in Mexico, Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in Mexico, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Las Vegas, and The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Anchorage.

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

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Mexico City Expensive? and Is Cumberland Island National Seashore Expensive?.