A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Orlando vs. Atlanta for Families, Food, Nightlife, and Couples

Should you visit Orlando or Atlanta?

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

Should I visit Orlando or Atlanta? 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.

Orlando

Orlando is a active, family-friendly, and entertaining city. It's also popular because of the theater, nightlife, and food. See Orlando travel costs.

Atlanta

Atlanta is a diverse, sprawling, and suburban city. It's a large city with plenty of activites for visitors as well. Other reasons to visit include museums, nightlife, and food. See Atlanta travel costs.

Orlando and Atlanta: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Orlando or Atlanta?

You'll generally find more things to do in Atlanta than Orlando. Atlanta is bigger than Orlando, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Atlanta is better known for its museums and attractions, nightlife, shopping, and big city activities, while Orlando is more popular for its theatre productions and resorts. Orlando is more touristy than Atlanta and is known for being the home of Walt Disney World, Universal Orlando, and many other theme parks and family-friendly activities. Atlanta is well known for its world class aquarium, its role as host of the 1996 Olympic Games, and its influence during the Civil Rights Movement. Also, Atlanta is famous for the Georgia Aquarium.

How is Orlando different from Atlanta?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Orlando or Atlanta?

Atlanta is renowned for its historical sights. However, Orlando does not have museums and landmarks.

Travelers visit Atlanta from around the world to see its many world-famous attractions. The museums range in topic from history to science and art. The country's largest aquarium, the Georgia Aquarium, is in Atlanta as well. It's home to whale sharks, stingrays, and a diversity of marine life. Other museums around town include the Atlanta History Center, the Fernbank Museum of Natural History, the High Museum of Art, the World of Coca Cola, the David J. Sencer CDC Museum, and the Delta Flight Museum. There are also many monuments and sites including the Martin Luther King Jr. National Historic Site.

Orlando does not have museums and landmarks.

Is Orlando or Atlanta Better for Theater?

Orlando is a nice place to visit for its shows and theatre. However, Atlanta is not a theatre destination.

If you have some extra time in Orlando, take in a show. The city has a number of local theaters that are fun to explore. As home to Disney World and Universal Studios, there are also a number of shows available that are affiliated with the parks.

Atlanta is not a theatre destination.

Is the Food Better in Orlando or Atlanta? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

There are opportunities to sample the local cuisine at very good restaurants in both Orlando and Atlanta.

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in Orlando. There are a diversity of restaurants on the Disney grounds and nearby. You'll also find many restaurants at Universal CityWalk and Disney Springs. Food can be expensive, and the quality can vary dramatically. Many people enjoy going to dinner shows as well. Restaurants can be challenging also, as reservations must be made months in advance.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Atlanta. It's a huge city with a wide selection of restaurants including international, local, and classic southern styles. Fried chicken, biscuits, diner food, and barbecue are all popular. For a classic southern breakfast check out The OK Cafe and for a quintessential Atlanta experience go to The Varsity.

Is Orlando or Atlanta Better for Nightlife?

Atlanta is great for nightlife. Also, Orlando is not as popular, but is still a nice city for nightlife and partying.

Many people head to Atlanta for the nightlife scene. The nightlife scene is diverse with trendy bars, dance clubs, and huge music halls. There are a number of neighborhoods that each have their own atmosphere. For some of the best nightlife check out the upscale bars in Buckhead, the music venues in Midtown, the hipster vibe in Edgewood, or the laid-back atmosphere in Virginia Highland.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Orlando. If you need a break from the kids, you'll find some of the best nightlife around Orlando at Disney Springs, Wall Street Plaza and Universal CityWalk.

Is Orlando or Atlanta Better for Resorts?

Orlando is terrific for its luxury resorts. However, Atlanta is not a resort destination.

Orlando offers an unforgettable resort vacation. Disney World is famous for its many iconic resorts. Some of the most popular are the Animal Kingdom Lodge, Port Orleans Resort, and the Grand Floridian Resort. There are also many resorts that aren't affiliated with the major theme parks. These tend to be more affordable, but transportation options to and from the park are limited. You'll also miss out on the perks that come with staying at a theme park resort.

Atlanta is not a resort destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Orlando or Atlanta?

Atlanta is renowned for shopping. Also, Orlando is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its shopping opportunities.

People travel from around the world to go shopping in Atlanta. There are a number of great shopping districts around town. Atlantic Station is popular with a movie theater and ice skating. Buckhead has boutique and local vendors and Lenox Square has a large shopping mall.

Orlando is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. Shopping is a dream for any Disney enthusiast. There are countless malls and shops, both on and off the Disney grounds, that sell all of the Disney paraphernalia. Disney Springs and Universal CityWalk are the most famous areas. During the evenings, these areas can be very crowded, but during the day they're less popular as most people are at the theme parks.

Is Orlando or Atlanta Better for Families?

Orlando is terrific for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Atlanta is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its family-friendly activities.

Orlando is an amazing family-friendly city to visit. Known as a theme park capital, here you'll find the iconic Disney World, as well as Universal Studios, SeaWorld and many more. While most people spend their vacation at the Disney or Universal resorts, there is also an endless supply of less mainstream parks and activities in the area.

Atlanta is a very family-friendly place to visit. There is no shortage of playgrounds around town, but a highlight of any trip is a visit to the Georgia Aquarium. It's the largest aquarium in the United States and its home to whale sharks, hammerheads, dolphin shows, and more. It is so much more than just an aquarium, and it truly is a not to be missed experience. Also worth a visit are Zoo Atlanta, the Center of Puppetry Arts, Stone Mountain, Fernbank Museum of Natural History, and the Lego Discovery Center. If you have the chance to see the Atlanta Braves play, that's also a rewarding experience.

Is Orlando or Atlanta Better for Couples?

With fun activities for couples, both Orlando and Atlanta make for a notable place to visit.

Orlando is a nice destination for couples. While most people visit the area with family, there is a niche crowd that enjoys honeymooning or vacationing here as a couple. There are many beautiful restaurants and interesting activities that couples can enjoy together. This is the perfect trip for fun loving couples who don't take themselves to seriously.

Atlanta makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. It's a big city, so there are a number of date night activities available such as orchestra concerts, theater shows, and fine dining. The city also has many outdoor areas like Lake Lanier and Piedmont Park. The Georgia Aquarium is world class, and there are other amazing museums around town as well.

Is Orlando or Atlanta Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Atlanta is a popular place for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Orlando is not a good destination for backpackers.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Atlanta. While it's usually overlooked by backpackers, there are actually a couple of hostels around town and a surprising number of activities worth experiencing. The city's large airport make it a convenient entry point for international travelers.

Orlando is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. It's not exactly a backpacker destination, but there are a surprising number of cheap motels that aren't affiliated with the major parks.

Is Orlando or Atlanta Better for Students?

Atlanta is great for its student-friendly activities. Also, Orlando is not as popular, but is still a nice city for students.

Atlanta is a very popular city for students and younger travelers. There are a number of universities in town such as Emory, Georgia Institute of Technology, Georgia State University, and Morehouse College. The city is sprawling, but it's also full of entertainment and activities that students will enjoy.

Orlando is a good city to visit for students. Most people don't think about education when they think about Orlando, but there are actually a diversity of internships and opportunities for students to learn in a fun setting.

Is Orlando or Atlanta Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Orlando and Atlanta both offer respectable public transit to get you around.

Public transit is mostly limited in Orlando. If you're staying at a Disney Property, there is excellent transportation around the complex, but otherwise, a car is essential.

Public transit is generally limited in Atlanta. For such a large city, the public transportation system is very limited. MARTA is the main transit authority and there are a few subway lines that cross the city as well as bus routes running around town.

Is Orlando or Atlanta a more walkable city?

Atlanta is a popular place for its walkability. However, Orlando is not a good destination for its high level of walkability.

Atlanta is somewhat walkable. Parts of the city are walkable, but most of the sights are spread out and require a car to access. Within neighborhoods, there are a few places that are more pedestrian-friendly such as Downtown, Midtown, Virginia Highlands, and Buckhead.

Orlando is not a walkable city. The city is sprawling, so unless you stay on the Disney grounds, it's best to rent a car.

For even more information, also check out Is Orlando Worth Visiting? and Is Atlanta Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Atlanta or Orlando?

How long in Orlando or Atlanta?

It's fun to spend time in either Orlando or Atlanta. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Atlanta due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 7 days is a good amount of time for Orlando, and 2-4 days is enough time in Atlanta.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Atlanta than Orlando 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 Atlanta.

One day in Orlando or Atlanta?

In Orlando, you'll find nightlife and food. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. This city offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

Because Atlanta is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. This city offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

A weekend in Orlando or Atlanta?

In Orlando, you'll find food and shopping. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

Because Atlanta is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Atlanta has to offer.

Five days in Orlando or Atlanta?

Orlando is a great place to explore. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

Atlanta is a great place to explore. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

A week in Orlando or Atlanta?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Orlando. Many people enjoy the theater and nightlife when visiting Orlando. It's also a relaxing resort destination. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Atlanta. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Atlanta. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Train & Rail Tours in United States of America, The Best Sightseeing Tours in United States of America, The Best Cruise Tours and Packages in United States of America, and The Best Cultural Tours in United States of America.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Orlando or Atlanta?

Atlanta has a larger population, and is about 2 times larger than the population of Orlando. When comparing the sizes of Orlando and Atlanta, 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 Orlando or Atlanta?

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 Orlando or Atlanta in the Summer?

Both Atlanta and Orlando are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Orlando for the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Atlanta in the summer for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Orlando is generally around the same temperature as Atlanta. Daily temperatures in Orlando average around 82°F (28°C), and Atlanta fluctuates around 82°F (28°C).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Atlanta. It's quite rainy in Orlando. In July, Orlando usually receives more rain than Atlanta. Orlando gets 8.3 inches (211 mm) of rain, while Atlanta receives 5.2 inches (133 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Orlando or Atlanta in the Autumn?

Both Atlanta and Orlando during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Orlando in the autumn for the shopping scene. Furthermore, most visitors come to Atlanta for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene during these months.

Orlando is a little warmer than Atlanta in the autumn. The daily temperature in Orlando averages around 75°F (24°C) in October, and Atlanta fluctuates around 66°F (19°C).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Orlando. Orlando usually gets more rain in October than Atlanta. Orlando gets 4.1 inches (103 mm) of rain, while Atlanta receives 3 inches (77 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Orlando or Atlanta in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Orlando and Atlanta. Most visitors come to Orlando for the Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine during these months. Furthermore, the winter months attract visitors to Atlanta because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

In the winter, Orlando is much warmer than Atlanta. Typically, the winter temperatures in Orlando in January average around 59°F (15°C), and Atlanta averages at about 45°F (7°C).

Atlanta receives a lot of rain in the winter. In January, Orlando usually receives less rain than Atlanta. Orlando gets 2.3 inches (58 mm) of rain, while Atlanta receives 4.7 inches (120 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Orlando or Atlanta in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Orlando as well as Atlanta. Additionally, the activities around the city are the main draw to Atlanta this time of year.

In April, Orlando is generally a little warmer than Atlanta. Daily temperatures in Orlando average around 72°F (22°C), and Atlanta fluctuates around 65°F (18°C).

It's quite rainy in Atlanta. Orlando usually gets less rain in April than Atlanta. Orlando gets 2.7 inches (69 mm) of rain, while Atlanta receives 4.1 inches (104 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Atlanta and Orlando