A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Orlando vs. Niagara Falls for Families, Food, Couples, and Nightlife

Should you visit Orlando or Niagara Falls?

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

Should I visit Orlando or Niagara Falls? 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 entertaining, active, and family-friendly city. And you can't forget about the nightlife, food, and shopping. See Orlando travel costs.

Niagara Falls

Niagara Falls is a iconic, breathtaking, and impressive city. Niagara Falls is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Other reasons to visit include shopping, nightlife, and food. See Niagara Falls travel costs.

Orlando and Niagara Falls: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Orlando or Niagara Falls?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Orlando than Niagara Falls. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Orlando is very popular for its theatre productions, food, resorts, and shopping, while Niagara Falls attracts visitors for its museums and attractions, hiking, and impressive beauty. Orlando is famous for being the home of Walt Disney World, Universal Orlando, and many other theme parks and family-friendly activities. It is also well known for Disney World, Universal Studios, and the city's many amusement parks. Niagara Falls is famous for the large volume of water that flows over it.

How is Orlando different from Niagara Falls?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Niagara Falls is adequate for its historical sights. However, Orlando does not have museums and landmarks.

While most people don't head to Niagara Falls specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. The Niagara Falls History Museum is one of the best museums in the area. There are also more touristy museums and attractions that you can visit as well. There's also a butterfly conservancy that is worth checking out.

Orlando does not have museums and landmarks.

Is Orlando or Niagara Falls Better for Theater?

Orlando is a popular place for its theatre productions. However, Niagara Falls is not a theatre destination.

Orlando offers a number of shows and performances. 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.

Niagara Falls is not a theatre destination.

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

Orlando is notable for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Niagara Falls is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its restaurants.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit 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.

Niagara Falls is becoming an appealing option for foodies. It's an iconic Canadian destination so, of course, you should try all things Canadian while you're in town. Maple syrup, poutine, butter tart, and beavertail (fried dough) are all things that should be on your list. Also make sure you sample some of the local game meat.

Is Orlando or Niagara Falls Better for Nightlife?

The vibe at night is nice in both Orlando and Niagara Falls.

If you're looking for night time activities Orlando has a few options to choose from. 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.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Niagara Falls. There's a decent concentration of clubs, pubs, and bars around town that keep things fun late into the evening.

Is Orlando or Niagara Falls Better for Resorts?

Orlando is an amazing city to visit for its resorts. However, Niagara Falls is not a resort destination.

For the ultimate resort vacation, Orlando is a great choice. 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.

Niagara Falls is not a resort destination.

Is Orlando or Niagara Falls Better for Hiking?

Niagara Falls is great for hiking. However, Orlando is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors go to Niagara Falls for the hiking trails. The nearby area is filled with hiking trails that let you escape into nature and enjoy impressive views.

Orlando is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Orlando or Niagara Falls?

Orlando is notable for its shopping opportunities. Also, Niagara Falls is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its shopping areas.

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.

Niagara Falls has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. You'll find touristy souvenir shops as well as outlets and malls nearby.

Is Orlando or Niagara Falls More Beautiful?

Niagara Falls is great for its scenery and beauty. However, Orlando is not a destination known for its beauty.

Niagara Falls is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's an impressive sight and the Canadian side offers the best views. It's definitely something you should try and see at least once.

Orlando is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Orlando or Niagara Falls Better for Families?

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Orlando or Niagara Falls.

As it has a large number of activities for kids, Orlando is a very family-friendly destination. 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.

Niagara Falls is one of the most popular family destinations. The views and setting are spectacular, and kids will love the boat tours or taking a ride on the Whirlpool Aero Car. There's also an indoor waterpark, a butterfly conservatory, and plenty of nature to explore.

Is Orlando or Niagara Falls Better for Couples?

Niagara Falls is great for romance. Also, Orlando is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its romantic activities.

Niagara Falls is a great city if you're traveling as a couple. The setting has long brought to mind romance, and to this day couples still honeymoon at this iconic destination. There are boat tours, nature trails, luxury hotels, and even wineries to explore.

Orlando makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. 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.

Is Orlando or Niagara Falls Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

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

Plenty of budget travelers visit Niagara Falls. There's a hostel or two where you can stay for cheap and meet other 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 Niagara Falls Better for Students?

Orlando is a popular place for students. However, Niagara Falls is not popular with students.

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.

Niagara Falls is not popular with students.

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

Niagara Falls is a popular place for times when you don't have a car. However, Orlando is not a good destination for its public transit.

While Niagara Falls offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There is a bus system through town.

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

Is Orlando or Niagara Falls a more walkable city?

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

Niagara Falls is somewhat walkable. Most of the attractions and close together by the falls, so it's relatively walkable.

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 Niagara Falls Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Niagara Falls or Orlando?

How long in Orlando or Niagara Falls?

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Niagara Falls 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 Niagara Falls.

One day in Orlando or Niagara Falls?

Many travelers enjoy the shopping and theater when visiting the family-friendly destination of Orlando. It's also a relaxing resort destination. Your budget might influence how long you stay. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

In Niagara Falls, you'll find shopping and nightlife. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. 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 Niagara Falls?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Orlando. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

In Niagara Falls, you'll find nightlife and food. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Niagara Falls has to offer.

Five days in Orlando or Niagara Falls?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the active destination of Orlando. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. 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.

Niagara Falls is a great place to explore. Hikers are also drawn to this area. 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 Niagara Falls?

You'll find food and shopping around the city of Orlando. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Niagara Falls. Many people enjoy the shopping and nightlife when visiting Niagara Falls. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. 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 Sightseeing Tours in Canada, and The Best Camping Tours in Canada.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Orlando and Niagara Falls, we can see that Orlando is more expensive. And not only is Niagara Falls much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Niagara Falls would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Niagara Falls 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 Niagara Falls.

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

Which is Bigger, Orlando or Niagara Falls?

Orlando has a larger population, and is about 3 times larger than the population of Niagara Falls. When comparing the sizes of Orlando and Niagara Falls, 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 Niagara Falls?

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 Orlando or Niagara Falls in the Summer?

Both Niagara Falls and Orlando during the summer are popular places to visit. The summer months attract visitors to Orlando because of the family-friendly experiences. Also, the hiking and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Niagara Falls this time of year.

In the summer, Orlando is a little warmer than Niagara Falls. Typically, the summer temperatures in Orlando in July average around 82°F (28°C), and Niagara Falls averages at about 23°C (74°F).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Orlando. Orlando usually gets more rain in July than Niagara Falls. Orlando gets 8.3 inches (211 mm) of rain, while Niagara Falls receives 69 mm (2.7 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Orlando or Niagara Falls in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Orlando and Niagara Falls. The shopping scene are the main draw to Orlando this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Niagara Falls for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Orlando is generally much warmer than Niagara Falls. Daily temperatures in Orlando average around 75°F (24°C), and Niagara Falls fluctuates around 12°C (54°F).

Orlando gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In October, Orlando usually receives more rain than Niagara Falls. Orlando gets 4.1 inches (103 mm) of rain, while Niagara Falls receives 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Orlando or Niagara Falls in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Orlando as well as Niagara Falls. Many travelers come to Orlando for the Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Niagara Falls in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Niagara Falls can get quite cold in the winter. Orlando is much warmer than Niagara Falls in the winter. The daily temperature in Orlando averages around 59°F (15°C) in January, and Niagara Falls fluctuates around -4°C (26°F).

Orlando usually gets more rain in January than Niagara Falls. Orlando gets 2.3 inches (58 mm) of rain, while Niagara Falls receives 52 mm (2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Orlando or Niagara Falls in the Spring?

Both Niagara Falls and Orlando are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Also, most visitors come to Niagara Falls for the natural beauty during these months.

In the spring, Orlando is much warmer than Niagara Falls. Typically, the spring temperatures in Orlando in April average around 72°F (22°C), and Niagara Falls averages at about 10°C (49°F).

In April, Orlando usually receives more rain than Niagara Falls. Orlando gets 2.7 inches (69 mm) of rain, while Niagara Falls receives 63 mm (2.5 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Niagara Falls and Orlando