A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Sarasota vs. Alexandria for Families, Attractions, Food, and Couples

Should you visit Sarasota or Alexandria?

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

Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for Sarasota and Alexandria. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.

Sarasota

Sarasota is a entertaining, underrated, and relaxing city. It's also popular because of the food, beaches, and shopping. See Sarasota travel costs.

Alexandria

Alexandria is a historic, charming, and quaint city. With fun activities and sights, this is a small town worth visiting. The beauty of Alexandria is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Visitors also love the museums, nightlife, and food. See Alexandria travel costs.

Sarasota and Alexandria: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Sarasota or Alexandria?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Alexandria than Sarasota, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Alexandria is more popular for its food, historical sights, shopping, small town charm, and impressive beauty, while Sarasota is known for its resorts and beaches. Sarasota is popular for its sandy beaches and its fun activities. Alexandria is popular for its long-running history, beautiful architecture, and small town atmosphere. It is also home to Mount Vernon.

How is Sarasota different from Alexandria?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Sarasota or Alexandria?

Visiting museums and landmarks is a fun activity in both Sarasota and Alexandria.

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around Sarasota. There are some decent museums in town such as the John and Mable Ringling Museum of Art, the Sarasota Classic Car Museum, and the Ca' da'Zan. Another highlight is the Mote Marine Laboratory and Aquarium.

Alexandria offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. George Washington's Mount Vernon home is an iconic destination in Alexandria. There are also many other museums in town that focus on the region's history. The Alexandria History Museum at the Lyceum and the Gadsby's Tavern Museum are both interesting. There's Gunston Hall and the Carlyle House, as well as an archeology museum and many historic landmarks around town.

Is the Food Better in Sarasota or Alexandria? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Alexandria is great for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Sarasota is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Alexandria has a huge number of terrific restaurants. The food, like the city itself, reflects the area's history. There are many southern classic dishes as well as a lot of seafood. You'll find lots of local restaurants that serve high quality dishes and a quaint atmosphere.

There are many up and coming restaurants in the Sarasota area. You'll find plenty of seafood around town, but there are also international restaurants and quirky local joints.

Is Sarasota or Alexandria Better for Nightlife?

The vibe at night is good in both Sarasota and Alexandria.

If you're looking for night time activities Sarasota has a few options to choose from. You'll find beach clubs, live entertainment such as drum circles, and plenty of bars around town. There are also evening cruises and late night parties.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Alexandria. There's a great bar scene, as well as tons of restaurants that make for a relaxing night out.

Is Sarasota or Alexandria Better for Resorts?

Sarasota is a good destination for its luxury resorts. However, Alexandria is not a resort destination.

Sarasota has a few great resort options. You'll find beachfront resorts with pools and nice views.

Alexandria is not a resort destination.

Is Sarasota or Alexandria Better for Beaches?

Sarasota is a good destination for the beach. However, Alexandria is not a beach destination.

Sarasota offers a nice beach destination. There's no shortage of beaches in the area where you can spend a relaxing day playing the water and lounging in the sun. Siesta Key, Sarasota Gay Beach, Crescent Beach, and Coquina Beach are some of the favorites.

Alexandria is not a beach destination.

Is Sarasota or Alexandria Better for its Old Town?

Alexandria is renowned for its old town. However, Sarasota does not have a historic old town.

The old town of Alexandria is one of the most recognized in the world. At the heart of the city is the historic old town. Its lined with townhomes that date back to the 18th century. There are many historic sights that have stories from the early days of the country. There are also cobblestone streets and a great waterfront.

Sarasota does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Sarasota or Alexandria?

Alexandria is great for its shopping opportunities. Also, Sarasota is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its shopping areas.

Alexandria is well-known for its shopping. King Street is the main shopping street in town and it offers the largest concentration of independently owned boutiques in the Washington D.C. area. It's the perfectly place to spend an afternoon shopping.

Many visitors go to Sarasota to go shopping. Upscale shopping can be found at St. Armand's Circle. There's also Sarasota Square Mall and the Mall at University Town Center. If you want to pick up some local items you can check out Sarasota Farmers Market.

Is Sarasota or Alexandria More Beautiful?

Alexandria is great for its scenery and beauty. However, Sarasota is not a destination known for its beauty.

The beauty of Alexandria is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. The historic architecture and beautiful waterfront make this an iconic destination.

Sarasota is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Sarasota or Alexandria Better for Families?

Sarasota is an unbeatable place for its kid-friendly activities. However, Alexandria is not a good destination for its family-friendly activities.

With a huge array of activities for kids, Sarasota is very family-friendly. There's a huge number of hands on activities for kids and families in the area. Many families enjoy a visit to Mote Marine Laboratory and Aquarium. There are also botanical gardens, science museums, and outdoor adventure centers. Animal lovers will appreciate a visit to Big Cat Habitat and Gulf Coast Sanctuary. The city also has many performing arts and entertainment options for kids. And make sure you check out the museum dedicated to the Ringling Brothers Circus.

Alexandria is not the most family-friendly destination. The waterfront area is nice to walk around. You can break up the history with an ice cream shop and kids will also enjoy taking a boat tour.

Is Sarasota or Alexandria Better for Couples?

Alexandria is great for its romantic activities. Also, Sarasota is not as popular, but is still a nice city for couples.

Alexandria is a great city if you're traveling as a couple. The charm of the old town makes this a quaint and romantic destination. There's a waterfront area and many historic buildings. There are also romantic restaurants and plenty of places to grab brunch.

Sarasota is a good city for couples to visit. A night out at St. Armands Circle is a fun way to spend the evening. There are also sunset cruises, nice restaurants, comedy clubs, and more.

Is Sarasota or Alexandria Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Alexandria is a good destination for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Sarasota is not a good destination for backpackers.

Plenty of backpackers visit Alexandria. There aren't any true hostels in town, but you will find some cheap motels.

Sarasota is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. There are budget friendly places to stay, but there isn't a large backpacker or young crowd hanging around.

Is Sarasota or Alexandria Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Alexandria is renowned for times when you don't have a car. However, Sarasota is not a good destination for its public transit.

Alexandria has a great public transit system. DASH is the local bus system, but the city is also connected into the Washington DC metro system.

Public transit is generally limited in Sarasota. There's a bus system around town but most visitors depend on their own car for transportation.

Is Sarasota or Alexandria a more walkable city?

Alexandria is renowned for its high level of walkability. However, Sarasota is not a good destination for its ease of walking around.

Alexandria is a very easy city to get around on foot. It's a very easy city to walk around, particularly in the historic heart where most tourists spend their time.

Sarasota is generally not very walkable. While the downtown has some walkable parts, you'll need a car to access most things around town.

For even more information, also check out Is Sarasota Worth Visiting? and Is Alexandria Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Alexandria or Sarasota?

How long in Sarasota or Alexandria?

It's fun to spend time in either Sarasota or Alexandria. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Sarasota due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 2-5 days is a good amount of time for Sarasota, and 2-4 days is enough time in Alexandria.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Alexandria than Sarasota 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 Alexandria.

One day in Sarasota or Alexandria?

With museums and nightlife around the relaxing city of Sarasota, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

The beautiful city of Alexandria offers food and shopping. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

A weekend in Sarasota or Alexandria?

With nightlife and food around the destination of Sarasota, there's plenty to do. It offers something for everyone. Many people spend a weekend here. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this city.

Alexandria is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this city makes for a great vacation. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Alexandria, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Sarasota or Alexandria?

Sarasota, a popular city, is full of activities for travelers. This is a popular place to visit for five days. In five days, you should have a good grasp of this city. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Alexandria is a popular choice for travelers. 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. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A week in Sarasota or Alexandria?

Sarasota is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Alexandria is a great place to explore. Visiting the old town is also a must. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This city offers something for everyone.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best G Adventures Tours to United States of America, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Las Vegas, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Anchorage, and The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Los Angeles.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Sarasota or Alexandria?

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

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 Sarasota or Alexandria in the Summer?

Both Alexandria and Sarasota are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The summer months attract visitors to Sarasota because of the beaches and the family-friendly experiences. Also, the small town charm and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Alexandria this time of year.

In the summer, Sarasota is around the same temperature as Alexandria. Typically, the summer temperatures in Sarasota in July average around 82°F (28°C), and Alexandria averages at about 79°F (26°C).

It's quite sunny in Alexandria. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Sarasota. Sarasota usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Alexandria during summer. Sarasota gets 265 hours of sunny skies, while Alexandria receives 278 hours of full sun in the summer.

It's quite rainy in Sarasota. In July, Sarasota usually receives more rain than Alexandria. Sarasota gets 8.4 inches (214 mm) of rain, while Alexandria receives 3.5 inches (88 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Sarasota or Alexandria in the Autumn?

Both Alexandria and Sarasota during the autumn are popular places to visit. The shopping scene are the main draw to Sarasota this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Alexandria for the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Sarasota is generally much warmer than Alexandria. Daily temperatures in Sarasota average around 76°F (24°C), and Alexandria fluctuates around 60°F (15°C).

It's quite sunny in Sarasota. In the autumn, Sarasota often gets more sunshine than Alexandria. Sarasota gets 234 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Alexandria receives 197 hours of full sun.

Sarasota usually gets less rain in October than Alexandria. Sarasota gets 2.6 inches (65 mm) of rain, while Alexandria receives 2.9 inches (73 mm) of rain this time of the year. Also, June to November in Sarasota is the hurricane season.

Should I visit Sarasota or Alexandria in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Sarasota and Alexandria. Many travelers come to Sarasota for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Alexandria in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Alexandria can get quite cold in the winter. Sarasota is much warmer than Alexandria in the winter. The daily temperature in Sarasota averages around 59°F (15°C) in January, and Alexandria fluctuates around 35°F (1°C).

In Sarasota, it's very sunny this time of the year. Sarasota usually receives more sunshine than Alexandria during winter. Sarasota gets 200 hours of sunny skies, while Alexandria receives 139 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Sarasota usually receives less rain than Alexandria. Sarasota gets 2.3 inches (59 mm) of rain, while Alexandria receives 2.7 inches (68 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Sarasota or Alexandria in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Sarasota as well as Alexandria. Many visitors come to Sarasota in the spring for the beaches. Also, most visitors come to Alexandria for the small town charm and the natural beauty during these months.

In the spring, Sarasota is much warmer than Alexandria. Typically, the spring temperatures in Sarasota in April average around 73°F (23°C), and Alexandria averages at about 56°F (14°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Alexandria. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Sarasota this time of the year. In the spring, Sarasota often gets more sunshine than Alexandria. Sarasota gets 299 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Alexandria receives 228 hours of full sun.

Sarasota usually gets less rain in April than Alexandria. Sarasota gets 2.1 inches (53 mm) of rain, while Alexandria receives 2.8 inches (72 mm) of rain this time of the year. Also, the hurricane season in Sarasota is June to November.

Typical Weather for Alexandria and Sarasota