A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Myrtle Beach vs. Lancaster for Nightlife, Food, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Myrtle Beach or Lancaster?

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

Which city is more affordable and which is best for your travel style? If you're trying to figure out where to go next, comparing the travel costs between Myrtle Beach and Lancaster can help you decide which place is right for you.

Myrtle Beach

Myrtle Beach is a jam-packed, high energy, and party-filled beach city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. It's also popular because of the nightlife and beaches. See Myrtle Beach travel costs.

Lancaster

Lancaster is a picturesque, scenic, and traditional town. With stunning beauty, Lancaster attracts visitors from all around. Other popular activities here include museums, food, and shopping. See Lancaster travel costs.

Myrtle Beach and Lancaster: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Myrtle Beach or Lancaster?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Myrtle Beach. Although Myrtle Beach and Lancaster are popular destinations, Myrtle Beach has more sights and attractions for tourists. Myrtle Beach is very popular for its nightlife, resorts, beaches, and big city activities, while Lancaster attracts visitors for its museums and attractions, food, shopping, and impressive beauty. Myrtle Beach is more touristy than Lancaster and is popular for its party-hard atmosphere, spring break crowds, and beachfront nightlife scene. It is also well known for the Myrtle Beach boardwalk. Lancaster is famous for its history and long running Amish community.

The Myrtle Beach boardwalk

How is Myrtle Beach different from Lancaster?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Myrtle Beach or Lancaster?

Lancaster is a great destination for its museums and landmarks. However, Myrtle Beach does not have museums and landmarks.

Many visitors head to Lancaster specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. Filled with history and local culture, there are many educational opportunities in the area where you can learn about Amish traditions. The Amish Village has tours and unique experiences. The town also has James Buchanan's Wheatland, the Railroad Museum of Pennsylvania, the National Toy Train Museum, the Ephrata Cloister, and the National Watch & Clock Museum, among many others.

Myrtle Beach does not have museums and landmarks.

Is the Food Better in Myrtle Beach or Lancaster? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Lancaster is a great destination for its restaurant scene. However, Myrtle Beach is a beach city with minimal options for its local flavors and cuisine.

Dining out in Lancaster is an experience not to be missed. You can sample authentic Pennsylvania Dutch dishes at one of the Amish restaurants in the area. Many places serve food family-style and dishes include chicken pot pie, ham balls, and pork and sauerkraut. Whoopie pies also originated in the area.

Myrtle Beach offers some easy restaurants to choose from. Slices of pizza and seafood buffets are the most common options in the area. There are also themed restaurants and dinner shows that make for a fun night, even if the food isn't the highest quality.

Is Myrtle Beach or Lancaster Better for Nightlife?

Myrtle Beach is an amazing beach city to visit for its evening party scene. However, Lancaster is not known for nightlife.

Myrtle Beach has a colorful and one-of-a-kind nightlife scene. This beach is famous for its nightlife. From all-night bars and clubs, to music concerts and outdoor venues, there's no shortage of things to do. Bachelor and Bachelorette parties and spring break crowds make this the place to be for a party.

Most people don't head to Lancaster specifically for the nightlife scene, but you can find a few options. It's a small town, but you'll still find local pubs and cozy bars where you can enjoy a drink in a laid back atmosphere.

Is Myrtle Beach or Lancaster Better for Resorts?

Myrtle Beach is adequate for its luxury resorts. However, Lancaster is not a resort destination.

You might not think of Myrtle Beach as a resort destination, but it has a few places. While there are a handful of resorts in the area, like the popular Marriott Vacation Club, most hotels are crowded and lacking in space.

Lancaster is not a resort destination.

Is Myrtle Beach or Lancaster Better for Beaches?

Myrtle Beach is a great beach city for the beach. However, Lancaster is not a beach destination.

You'll have a great beach vacation in Myrtle Beach. Most people head to the center of town and boardwalk for the nightlife and vibrant activities more than the actual beach. The stretches north and south have nice beaches lined with hotels and resorts, and a much more family-friendly atmosphere. If you want a more relaxed beach setting without the huge crowds, check out Myrtle Beach State Park.

Lancaster is not a beach destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Myrtle Beach or Lancaster?

Lancaster is a great destination for its shopping areas. However, Myrtle Beach is a beach city with minimal options for shopping.

Browsing through shops is a popular activity in Lancaster. Many visitors pick up hand-crafted Amish items while they're in town. Furniture and Amish quilts are particularly popular. Farmers markets and antique shopping are both unique in the area and there are also art galleries and several outlet stores that you can visit.

Myrtle Beach is a good destination for shopping. The town is filled with souvenir shops, t-shirt shops, and candy vendors that make shopping entertaining.

Is Myrtle Beach or Lancaster More Beautiful?

Lancaster is a great destination for its scenery and beauty. However, Myrtle Beach is not a destination known for its beauty.

With stunning beauty, Lancaster attracts visitors from all around. The countryside is beautiful, with preserved farmland, covered bridges, and beautiful gardens.

Myrtle Beach is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Myrtle Beach or Lancaster Better for Families?

Lancaster is a great destination for its family-friendly activities. However, Myrtle Beach is a beach city with minimal options for its kid-friendly activities.

Lancaster is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. In you area you'll find farms and petting zoos, amusement parks, and train rides. They can learn about a unique lifestyle at the Amish Experience or soak up the local beauty and farmland in the surrounding countryside.

For families, Myrtle Beach is not always the best place to visit. While this area isn't generally considered a family destination, there are some newer vacation clubs and resorts that cater specifically to families and have become popular. The Marriott Vacation Club is one of the most popular with families in Myrtle Beach.

Is Myrtle Beach or Lancaster Better for Couples?

Lancaster is a great destination for couples. Also, Myrtle Beach is still popular, but not quite as popular for romance.

Couples visit Lancaster frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. This region is known for it's local beauty and serene farmland, making it a relaxing and peaceful destination for couples. There are walking trails, outdoor activities, buggy rides, and a variety of dining experiences. You can also stay at a bed and breakfast or local inn.

Myrtle Beach is a nice destination for couples. The beach area isn't exactly a romantic destination but for couples who enjoy going out and having fun together, there is no shortage of night time activities.

Is Myrtle Beach or Lancaster Better for Students?

Myrtle Beach is a great beach city for its student-friendly activities. However, Lancaster is not popular with students.

Myrtle Beach is a great beach city to visit as a student. University students flock to the area for spring break and end of year celebrations. If you're a student during those times, this is the place to be, otherwise, the area is best avoided.

Lancaster is not popular with students.

Is Myrtle Beach or Lancaster Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Lancaster is a town with a few options for its public transit. However, Myrtle Beach is a beach city with minimal options for times when you don't have a car.

Public transit is generally limited in Lancaster. The city has buses and several transportation options, but once you're outside of the urban core, your options are limited.

Public transit is quite limited in Myrtle Beach. There are no real public transit options so you'll need a car to get around.

Is Myrtle Beach or Lancaster a more walkable city?

Myrtle Beach and Lancaster both are reasonable when exploring on foot.

Myrtle Beach is generally not very walkable. By the Boardwalk, it's easy to walk around, but traffic can still be congested and once you're out of the main strip, a car is essential.

Lancaster is generally not a very walkable beach city. While the city itself has walkable areas, most visitors want to get out and explore the countryside, which requires a car.

For even more information, also check out Is Myrtle Beach Worth Visiting? and Is Lancaster Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Lancaster or Myrtle Beach?

How long in Myrtle Beach or Lancaster?

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

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Lancaster than Myrtle Beach 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 Lancaster.

One day in Myrtle Beach or Lancaster?

You'll find nightlife around the beach city of Myrtle Beach. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

In Lancaster, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this scenic town offers. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

A weekend in Myrtle Beach or Lancaster?

You'll find nightlife around the busy destination of Myrtle Beach. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this beach city has to offer. This beach city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Lancaster is a fun place to experience. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. So, a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

Five days in Myrtle Beach or Lancaster?

You'll find nightlife around the busy beach city of Myrtle Beach. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this beach city makes for a great vacation. It's also a great beach destination, too. Most people head to the area for the nightlife. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this beach city has to offer.

You'll find food and shopping around the picturesque destination of Lancaster. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days.

A week in Myrtle Beach or Lancaster?

Myrtle Beach is a popular choice for travelers. One week here is typical. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Myrtle Beach, one week is sufficent for most. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Lancaster is a popular place to visit. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Bicycle Tours in United States of America, Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in United States of America, The Best Coach Bus Tours in United States of America, and The Best Adventure Tours to United States of America.

When comparing the travel costs between Myrtle Beach and Lancaster, we can see that Lancaster is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Since both cities are in North America, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

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

Which is Bigger, Myrtle Beach or Lancaster?

Lancaster has a larger population, and is about 2 times larger than the population of Myrtle Beach. When comparing the sizes of Myrtle Beach and Lancaster, 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 Myrtle Beach or Lancaster?

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 Myrtle Beach or Lancaster in the Summer?

Both Lancaster and Myrtle Beach during the summer are popular places to visit. The beaches, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Myrtle Beach this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Lancaster for the family-friendly experiences.

Myrtle Beach is around the same temperature as Lancaster in the summer. The daily temperature in Myrtle Beach averages around 81°F (27°C) in July, and Lancaster fluctuates around 77°F (25°C).

In Lancaster, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Myrtle Beach. In the summer, Myrtle Beach often gets less sunshine than Lancaster. Myrtle Beach gets 283 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Lancaster receives 310 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Myrtle Beach. Myrtle Beach usually gets more rain in July than Lancaster. Myrtle Beach gets 8.1 inches (207 mm) of rain, while Lancaster receives 3.6 inches (91 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Myrtle Beach or Lancaster in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Myrtle Beach and Lancaster. Many travelers come to Myrtle Beach for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene. Also, many visitors come to Lancaster in the autumn for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Myrtle Beach is a little warmer than Lancaster. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Myrtle Beach in October average around 65°F (18°C), and Lancaster averages at about 56°F (13°C).

In Myrtle Beach, it's very sunny this time of the year. Myrtle Beach usually receives more sunshine than Lancaster during autumn. Myrtle Beach gets 227 hours of sunny skies, while Lancaster receives 194 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Myrtle Beach usually receives less rain than Lancaster. Myrtle Beach gets 2.7 inches (68 mm) of rain, while Lancaster receives 2.9 inches (75 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Myrtle Beach or Lancaster in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Myrtle Beach as well as Lancaster. Many visitors come to Myrtle Beach in the winter for the shopping scene and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Lancaster for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Lancaster can be very cold during winter. In January, Myrtle Beach is generally much warmer than Lancaster. Daily temperatures in Myrtle Beach average around 45°F (7°C), and Lancaster fluctuates around 30°F (-1°C).

In the winter, Myrtle Beach often gets more sunshine than Lancaster. Myrtle Beach gets 180 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Lancaster receives 153 hours of full sun.

Myrtle Beach usually gets more rain in January than Lancaster. Myrtle Beach gets 3.9 inches (98 mm) of rain, while Lancaster receives 2.8 inches (72 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Myrtle Beach or Lancaster in the Spring?

Both Lancaster and Myrtle Beach are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Myrtle Beach for the beaches and the activities around the city during these months. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Lancaster because of the natural beauty.

Myrtle Beach is a little warmer than Lancaster in the spring. The daily temperature in Myrtle Beach averages around 62°F (17°C) in April, and Lancaster fluctuates around 53°F (12°C).

It's quite sunny in Lancaster. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Myrtle Beach. Myrtle Beach usually receives more sunshine than Lancaster during spring. Myrtle Beach gets 278 hours of sunny skies, while Lancaster receives 237 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Myrtle Beach usually receives less rain than Lancaster. Myrtle Beach gets 2.9 inches (73 mm) of rain, while Lancaster receives 3.2 inches (82 mm) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Lancaster and Myrtle Beach