A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Nags Head vs. Detroit for Nightlife, Families, Food, and Couples

Should you visit Nags Head or Detroit?

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

Should I visit Nags Head 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.

Nags Head

Visitors also love the nightlife and food. See Nags Head travel costs.

Detroit

Detroit is a under-rated, hardworking, and overlooked city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. Other reasons to visit include food, shopping, and museums. See Detroit travel costs.

Nags Head and Detroit: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with couples
  • Less popular with backpackers


Is there more to do in Nags Head or Detroit?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Detroit. Although Nags Head and Detroit are popular destinations, Detroit has more sights and attractions for tourists. Detroit is more touristy than Nags Head and is known for its Motown music, blue collar atmosphere, and influential auto industry. It is also well known for the Henry Ford Experience. Nags Head is famous for

How is Nags Head different from Detroit?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Nags Head or Detroit?

Nags Head
Detroit

Detroit is a popular place for its historical sights. However, Nags Head does not have museums and landmarks.

Detroit is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. Popular museums around town include the Detroit Institute of Arts, the Detroit Historical Museum, and the Michigan Science Center.

Nags Head does not have museums and landmarks.


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

Nags Head
Detroit

Picking the best cuisine and restaurants between Nags Head and Detroit can be difficult as they are each nice in their own way.

There are plenty of up and coming restaurants around Nags Head. There are a wide variety of seafood restaurants that serve locally caught fish, shrimp, and crabs. Cajon flavors are popular and you'll also find cheese grits at many places.

Visitors will find a budding food and restaurant scene in Detroit. 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 Nags Head or Detroit Better for Nightlife?

Nags Head
Detroit

The vibe at night is very good in both Nags Head and Detroit.

Many people head to Nags Head for the nightlife scene. You'll find the widest variety of nightlife options in the Outer Banks here. There are a number of bars and clubs around town where you can enjoy a drink or dance late into the night. During the peak summer months there's often live music at many places.

Detroit has plenty to do after the sun goes down. 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.

Is Nags Head or Detroit Better for Music?

Nags Head
Detroit

Detroit is an amazing city to visit for live music. However, Nags Head is not a live music destination.

Detroit is known as a music capital around the world. 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.

Nags Head is not a live music destination.


Is the Shopping Better in Nags Head or Detroit?

Nags Head
Detroit

Detroit is a popular place for shopping. However, Nags Head is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Plenty of visitors enjoy shopping while in Detroit. There are several shopping streets like Woodward Avenue. There are also outlet malls, shopping centers, and Eastern Market.

Nags Head is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Nags Head or Detroit Better for Families?

Nags Head
Detroit

Nags Head is a very popular place for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Detroit is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Nags Head is very family-friendly. It makes a wonderful base for the many family-friendly activities in the area. Jockey's Ridge is a fun place to visit with kids. There are also wonderful beaches and many kids enjoying flying kites.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Detroit. 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 Nags Head or Detroit Better for Couples?

Nags Head
Detroit

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

Nags Head makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. There are great seafood restaurants and a number of activities in the area that are fun for couples.

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 Nags Head or Detroit Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Nags Head
Detroit

Nags Head is a nice place to visit for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Detroit is lacking in good options for backpackers.

It's common for backpackers to visit Nags Head. This is one of the more affordable places to stay in the Outer Banks, so it appeals to more budget-oriented travelers.

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

Nags Head
Detroit

Detroit is adequate for times when you don't have a car. However, Nags Head is not a good destination for its public transit.

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

Public transit is limited or non-existant in Nags Head. There's no real public transit around town, so you'll need to have your own car.

Is Nags Head or Detroit a more walkable city?

Nags Head
Detroit

Detroit is a popular place for its walkability. However, Nags Head is not a good destination for its high level of walkability.

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

Nags Head is generally not very walkable. This is one of the least walkable towns in the Outer Banks. You'll need a car to reach most restaurants and other activities in the area.


Should I spend more time in Detroit or Nags Head?

How long in Nags Head or Detroit?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Nags Head and Detroit. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Nags Head than in Detroit. Usually, 4-7 days is a good amount of time for Nags Head, and 1-3 days is enough time in Detroit.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Detroit than Nags Head 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 Detroit.


  • How many days in Nags Head or Detroit? Ideal Length of Stay
    Nags Head 4-7 
    Detroit 1-3

One day in Nags Head or Detroit?

In Nags Head, you'll find nightlife and food. This offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

You'll find nightlife and live music around the city of Detroit. One day is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Detroit has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A weekend in Nags Head or Detroit?

In Nags Head, you'll find food and nightlife. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

You'll find live music and food around the hardworking destination of Detroit. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Five days in Nags Head or Detroit?

Nags Head is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Nags Head has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

Travelers enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the overlooked city of Detroit. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Most people head to the area for the live music. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.


A week in Nags Head or Detroit?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Nags Head. In Nags Head, you'll find food and nightlife. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one week here.

Detroit is a popular choice for travelers. One week 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. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Las Vegas, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Anchorage, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Los Angeles, and The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from New York City.


Which place is cheaper, Detroit or Nags Head?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations. These travel costs come from the actual spending of real travelers.

  • Nags Head Prices
    USA Prices
    Detroit Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Nags Head $179
    Detroit $165

The average daily cost (per person) in Nags Head is $179, while the average daily cost in Detroit is $165. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Nags Head and Detroit in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Nags Head $80
    Detroit $64
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Nags Head $160
    Detroit $128
Compare Hotels in Nags Head and Detroit

Looking for a hotel in Nags Head or Detroit? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Nags Head


Hotels in Detroit


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Nags Head Hotel Prices and Detroit Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Nags Head $40
    Detroit $37

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Detroit

Also for Detroit, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Detroit Airport (DTW) to Detroit City - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $183
  • Private Transfer from Detroit (DTW) Airport to Detroit City: $155
  • Private Transfer from Detroit City to Detroit (DTW) Airport: $155
  • Departure Private Transfer: Detroit to Detroit Airport DTW in Luxury SUV: $142
  • Departure Private Transfer: Detroit to Detroit Airport DTW in Business Car: $108
  • Detroit City to Detroit Airport (DTW) - Departure Private Transfer: $92
  • Detroit Airport (DTW) to Detroit City - Arrival Private Transfer: $92
  • Private Departure Transfer - to Detroit Airport (DTW) by SUV: $90
  • Private Departure Transfer to Detroit Airport DTW: $61

Is it cheaper to fly into Nags Head or Detroit?

Prices for flights to both Detroit and Nags Head change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    Nags Head $71
    Detroit $76

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Detroit

For Detroit, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Secret Food Tour with Tastings: $80
  • Detroit Downtown Food Tour: 6+ Iconic Tastings in Motor City: $95
  • Detroit Flavors Food Tour: $150
  • Delicious in Detroit Food Tour: $159

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Nags Head $14
    Detroit $21

Tours and Activities in Nags Head

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Nags Head.

  • 2-hour Outer Banks Wild Horse Tour by 4WD Truck: $65
  • Alligator River Kayak Adventure: $59
  • Cape Hatteras Kayak Adventure in Rodanthe: $59
  • Cape Hatteras National Seashore Self-Guided Audio Driving Tour: $15
  • Kitty Hawk Maritime Forest Kayak Tour: $49
  • Nags Head Kayak Tour: $55
  • OBX Ghost Tours- The Original Ghost Tour of the Outer Banks: $25
  • OBX Ghost Tours: Lighthouse Wraiths & Dune Shadows: $26
  • Outer Banks Self-Guided Driving Audio Tour: $25
  • Self-Guided Audio Driving Tour in Outer Banks: $17
  • Stand Up Paddleboard Adventure on the Outer Banks : $65
  • Wright Brothers Carolina Dunes Self-Guided Driving Audio Tour: $15

Tours and Activities in Detroit

For Detroit, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • Ann Arbor Scavenger Hunt Interactive Walking Tour: $35
  • Best Detroit Walking Tour: $105
  • Best Downtown Detroit Historical Walking Tour: $100
  • Chauffeured Historic Tour of Detroit with Flexibility : $65
  • Detroit Drunks of Antiquity Historic Bar Tour : $65
  • Detroit Food Walking Tour: $159
  • Detroit Guided Pedicab Tour Explore the City in Comfort: $125
  • Detroit Pistons Basketball Game Ticket at Little Caesars Arena: $23
  • Detroit Private Sightseeing Tour with Daily Chauffeur: $3,000
  • Detroit Red Wings Ice Hockey Game Ticket at Little Caesars Arena: $11
  • Detroit's Hidden History Guided Walking Tour: $35
  • Architectural Beauty and Hidden Gems Walking Tour: $120

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Nags Head $12
    Detroit $20

Sample the Local Flavors in Nags Head

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Nags Head:

  • Wine Tasting And Boat Ride: $109


When comparing the travel costs between Nags Head and Detroit, we can see that Nags Head 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 Nags Head Expensive? and Is Detroit Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Nags Head or Detroit?

Detroit has a larger population, and is about 300 times larger than the population of Nags Head. When comparing the sizes of Nags Head 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 Nags Head or Detroit?

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 Nags Head or Detroit in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Nags Head and Detroit. Many travelers come to Nags Head for the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, many visitors come to Detroit in the summer for the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Nags Head is around the same temperature as Detroit. Typically, the summer temperatures in Nags Head in July average around 78°F (26°C), and Detroit averages at about 74°F (24°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Detroit this time of the year. In Nags Head, it's very sunny this time of the year. Nags Head usually receives less sunshine than Detroit during summer. Nags Head gets 274 hours of sunny skies, while Detroit receives 319 hours of full sun in the summer.

Nags Head gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In July, Nags Head usually receives more rain than Detroit. Nags Head gets 5.4 inches (137 mm) of rain, while Detroit receives 3.4 inches (85 mm) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Nags Head 78°F (26°C) 
    Detroit 74°F (24°C)

Should I visit Nags Head or Detroit in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Nags Head as well as Detroit. Additionally, most visitors come to Detroit for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the music scene during these months.

In October, Nags Head is generally a little warmer than Detroit. Daily temperatures in Nags Head average around 62°F (16°C), and Detroit fluctuates around 54°F (12°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Nags Head this time of the year. In the autumn, Nags Head often gets more sunshine than Detroit. Nags Head gets 205 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Detroit receives 172 hours of full sun.

Nags Head usually gets more rain in October than Detroit. Nags Head gets 3.2 inches (82 mm) of rain, while Detroit receives 2.3 inches (58 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Nags Head 62°F (16°C) 
    Detroit 54°F (12°C)

Should I visit Nags Head or Detroit in the Winter?

Both Detroit and Nags Head are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Nags Head for 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. Nags Head can be very cold during winter. Nags Head is much warmer than Detroit in the winter. The daily temperature in Nags Head averages around 41°F (5°C) in January, and Detroit fluctuates around 25°F (-4°C).

Nags Head usually receives more sunshine than Detroit during winter. Nags Head gets 147 hours of sunny skies, while Detroit receives 120 hours of full sun in the winter.

It's quite rainy in Nags Head. In January, Nags Head usually receives more rain than Detroit. Nags Head gets 4.1 inches (105 mm) of rain, while Detroit receives 2 inches (50 mm) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Nags Head 41°F (5°C) 
    Detroit 25°F (-4°C)

Should I visit Nags Head or Detroit in the Spring?

Both Detroit and Nags Head during the spring are popular places to visit. Also, the activities around the city are the main draw to Detroit this time of year.

In the spring, Nags Head is much warmer than Detroit. Typically, the spring temperatures in Nags Head in April average around 59°F (15°C), and Detroit averages at about 49°F (9°C).

In Detroit, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Nags Head. In the spring, Nags Head often gets more sunshine than Detroit. Nags Head gets 262 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Detroit receives 223 hours of full sun.

Nags Head usually gets around the same amount of rain in April as Detroit. Nags Head gets 3 inches (75 mm) of rain, while Detroit receives 3.2 inches (80 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Nags Head 59°F (15°C) 
    Detroit 49°F (9°C)

Typical Weather for Detroit and Nags Head

Nags Head Detroit
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 41°F (5°C) 4.1 inches (105 mm) 25°F (-4°C) 2 inches (50 mm)
Feb 42°F (6°C) 3.6 inches (92 mm) 27°F (-3°C) 2.1 inches (54 mm)
Mar 50°F (10°C) 3.9 inches (98 mm) 37°F (3°C) 2.8 inches (72 mm)
Apr 59°F (15°C) 3 inches (75 mm) 49°F (9°C) 3.2 inches (80 mm)
May 67°F (19°C) 4.6 inches (117 mm) 60°F (16°C) 3 inches (76 mm)
Jun 74°F (23°C) 4.1 inches (105 mm) 70°F (21°C) 3.8 inches (97 mm)
Jul 78°F (26°C) 5.4 inches (137 mm) 74°F (24°C) 3.4 inches (85 mm)
Aug 78°F (25°C) 5 inches (127 mm) 73°F (23°C) 3.4 inches (86 mm)
Sep 72°F (22°C) 4.7 inches (119 mm) 65°F (19°C) 3.4 inches (87 mm)
Oct 62°F (16°C) 3.2 inches (82 mm) 54°F (12°C) 2.3 inches (58 mm)
Nov 53°F (12°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm) 43°F (6°C) 3 inches (75 mm)
Dec 45°F (7°C) 3.4 inches (85 mm) 31°F (-1°C) 3.2 inches (82 mm)