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

Should you visit Sarasota or Lewisburg?

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 Lewisburg. 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 underrated, relaxing, and entertaining city. It's also known for beaches, shopping, and museums. See Sarasota travel costs.

Lewisburg

Lewisburg is a charming, historical, and quaint town. With fun activities and sights, this is a small town worth visiting. Visitors also love the shopping and museums. See Lewisburg travel costs.

Sarasota and Lewisburg: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Nice resorts
  • Popular beach
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with backpackers
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Scenic old town
  • Good for students
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less family-friendly
  • Less popular with couples
  • Less popular with backpackers


Is there more to do in Sarasota or Lewisburg?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Sarasota. Although Sarasota and Lewisburg are popular destinations, Sarasota has more sights and attractions for tourists. Sarasota is very popular for its museums and attractions, food, nightlife, resorts, and beaches, while Lewisburg attracts visitors for its historical sights and small town charm. Sarasota is more touristy than Lewisburg and is popular for its sandy beaches and its fun activities. It is also well known for the John and Mable Ringling Museum. Lewisburg is famous for its historical charm and friendly personality.

How is Sarasota different from Lewisburg?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Sarasota
Lewisburg

Sarasota is well known for its museums and landmarks. Also, Lewisburg is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historical sights.

Sarasota offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. 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.

Lewisburg offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. There are several cultural and historical museums in town as well as a fun children's museum.


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

Sarasota
Lewisburg

Sarasota is a popular place for its restaurant scene. However, Lewisburg is not particularly known for its local flavors and cuisine.

Sarasota offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. You'll find plenty of seafood around town, but there are also international restaurants and quirky local joints.

You'll find the standard options when it comes to food in Lewisburg. There are bistros and cafes as well as all the standard chain restaurants.

Is Sarasota or Lewisburg Better for Nightlife?

Sarasota
Lewisburg

Sarasota is a popular place for nightlife. However, Lewisburg is not particularly known for nightlife and partying.

Sarasota has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. 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.

Lewisburg doesn't have the most active nightlife scene. While there are some bars, most people don't come here for the nightlife.

Is Sarasota or Lewisburg Better for Resorts?

Sarasota
Lewisburg

Sarasota is a popular place for its resorts. However, Lewisburg is not a resort destination.

Sarasota has a handful of resorts to choose from. You'll find beachfront resorts with pools and nice views.

Lewisburg is not a resort destination.


Is Sarasota or Lewisburg Better for Beaches?

Sarasota
Lewisburg

Sarasota is a popular place for its beaches. However, Lewisburg is not a beach destination.

Sarasota is a good option for a beach vacation. 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.

Lewisburg is not a beach destination.

Is Sarasota or Lewisburg Better for its Old Town?

Sarasota
Lewisburg

Lewisburg is a good destination for its old town. However, Sarasota does not have a historic old town.

Plenty of visitors enjoy exploring the old town in Lewisburg. There are a huge number of historical buildings in the downtown area that contribute to the town's charm and character.

Sarasota does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Sarasota or Lewisburg?

Sarasota
Lewisburg

If you're looking to go shopping, Sarasota and Lewisburg both offer plenty of nice spots.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Sarasota. 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.

Many visitors go to Lewisburg to go shopping. There are some quaint local shops that sell local items and unique art works.


Is Sarasota or Lewisburg Better for Families?

Sarasota
Lewisburg

Sarasota is an amazing city to visit for its family-friendly activities. Also, Lewisburg is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

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

Lewisburg offers lots of family activities. The Lewisburg Children's Museum is worth checking out, as is Reptiland and the many different indoor and outdoor play areas.

Is Sarasota or Lewisburg Better for Couples?

Sarasota
Lewisburg

Sarasota is a popular place for romance. However, Lewisburg is not particularly known for its romantic activities.

Sarasota is a nice destination for couples. 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.

Most people don't think of Lewisburg as a couple's destination. There are several quaint inns and beautiful gardens that you can explore. There are also spas and restaurants where you can enjoy a nice meal.

Is Sarasota or Lewisburg Better for Students?

Sarasota
Lewisburg

Lewisburg is a good destination for its student-friendly activities. However, Sarasota is not popular with students.

It's common for students to visit Lewisburg. Many students enjoy living here while they attend Bucknell University.

Sarasota is not popular with students.


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

Sarasota
Lewisburg

Sarasota and Lewisburg both offer reasonable public transit to get you around.

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

Public transit is generally limited in Lewisburg. Public transportation in the area is limited.

Is Sarasota or Lewisburg a more walkable city?

Sarasota
Lewisburg

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

Lewisburg is a somewhat walkable place. It's small with a relatively compact downtown.

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 Lewisburg Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Lewisburg or Sarasota?

How long in Sarasota or Lewisburg?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Sarasota or Lewisburg to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Sarasota than Lewisburg because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 2-5 days is a good amount of time for Sarasota, and 1-2 days is enough time in Lewisburg.

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

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


  • How many days in Sarasota or Lewisburg? Ideal Length of Stay
    Sarasota 2-5 
    Lewisburg 1-2

One day in Sarasota or Lewisburg?

You'll find shopping and museums around the city of Sarasota. 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.

The town of Lewisburg offers museums and shopping. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one day here. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.


A weekend in Sarasota or Lewisburg?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the entertaining destination of Sarasota. 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.

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

Five days in Sarasota or Lewisburg?

You'll find nightlife and food around the entertaining city of Sarasota. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this city makes for a great vacation. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer.

Lewisburg 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 Lewisburg?

Sarasota 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.

Lewisburg is a great place to explore. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This town 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.


Which place is cheaper, Lewisburg or Sarasota?

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

  • Sarasota Prices
    USA Prices
    Lewisburg Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Sarasota $350
    Lewisburg $161

The average daily cost (per person) in Sarasota is $350, while the average daily cost in Lewisburg is $161. 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 Sarasota and Lewisburg in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Sarasota $108
    Lewisburg $70
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Sarasota $216
    Lewisburg $140
Compare Hotels in Sarasota and Lewisburg

Looking for a hotel in Sarasota or Lewisburg? 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 Sarasota


Hotels in Lewisburg


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: Sarasota Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Sarasota -
    Lewisburg $53

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Sarasota

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

  • Private Airport Arrival Transfer From Sarasota (SRQ) Airport: $24
  • Private Airport Departure Transfer To Sarasota (SRQ) Airport: $24
  • Sarasota Airport (SRQ) to Anna Maria island - Round-Trip Transfer: $251
  • Sarasota Airport(SRQ) to Anna Maria island hotel-Arrival Transfer: $125
  • Sarasota–Bradenton Airport (SRQ) to Sarasota Round-Trip Transfer: $55
  • Sarasota–Bradenton Intl. Airport (SRQ) to Sarasota - Arrival Private Transfer: $27

Is it cheaper to fly into Sarasota or Lewisburg?

Prices for flights to both Lewisburg and Sarasota 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
    Sarasota $238
    Lewisburg $59

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Sarasota

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

  • Downtown Sarasota Dinner Tour: $153

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Sarasota $11
    Lewisburg $18

Tours and Activities in Sarasota

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

  • Palmetto Ghost & History Tour by Silent Slayer Ghost Tours: $40
  • Robinson Preserve Mangrove Tour: $55
  • Siesta Key: Mangrove Kayak or Paddleboard Tour: $55
  • Mangroves, Manatees, and a Hidden Beach: Kayak Tour: $55
  • Anna Maria Island Dolphin Sightseeing Adventure : $55
  • Anna Maria Island Dolphin Sunset Boat Tour: $58
  • Sarasota Guided Mangrove Tunnel Kayak Tour: $59
  • Siesta Key Guided Eco Tour: $59
  • Glass Bottom Kayak Fish Feeding LED Night Tour: $59
  • Sarasota Waterways Tour for All Ages: $60
  • Siesta Key Kayak Tour : $60
  • Clear Kayak Private Guided Day and Night Tours in Florida: $60

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Sarasota -
    Lewisburg $12


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

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


Which is Bigger, Sarasota or Lewisburg?

Sarasota has a larger population, and is about 10 times larger than the population of Lewisburg. When comparing the sizes of Sarasota and Lewisburg, 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 Lewisburg?

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 Sarasota or Lewisburg in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Sarasota as well as Lewisburg. The beaches and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Sarasota this time of year. Additionally, many travelers come to Lewisburg for the small town charm and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Sarasota is generally a little warmer than Lewisburg. Daily temperatures in Sarasota average around 82°F (28°C), and Lewisburg fluctuates around 74°F (24°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Lewisburg. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Sarasota this time of the year. In the summer, Sarasota often gets less sunshine than Lewisburg. Sarasota gets 265 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Lewisburg receives 310 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Lewisburg. Sarasota receives a lot of rain in the summer. Sarasota usually gets more rain in July than Lewisburg. Sarasota gets 8.4 inches (214 mm) of rain, while Lewisburg receives 4 inches (101 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Sarasota 82°F (28°C) 
    Lewisburg 74°F (24°C)

Should I visit Sarasota or Lewisburg in the Autumn?

Both Lewisburg and Sarasota are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Sarasota for the shopping scene. Also, many visitors come to Lewisburg in the autumn for the shopping scene and the small town atmosphere.

Sarasota is much warmer than Lewisburg in the autumn. The daily temperature in Sarasota averages around 76°F (24°C) in October, and Lewisburg fluctuates around 54°F (12°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Sarasota. Sarasota usually receives more sunshine than Lewisburg during autumn. Sarasota gets 234 hours of sunny skies, while Lewisburg receives 194 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Sarasota usually receives less rain than Lewisburg. Sarasota gets 2.6 inches (65 mm) of rain, while Lewisburg receives 3.3 inches (84 mm) of rain each month for the autumn. The hurricane season in Sarasota is June to November.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Sarasota 76°F (24°C) 
    Lewisburg 54°F (12°C)

Should I visit Sarasota or Lewisburg in the Winter?

Both Lewisburg and Sarasota during the winter are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Sarasota in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Lewisburg for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Lewisburg can be very cold during winter. In the winter, Sarasota is much warmer than Lewisburg. Typically, the winter temperatures in Sarasota in January average around 59°F (15°C), and Lewisburg averages at about 27°F (-3°C).

It's quite sunny in Sarasota. In the winter, Sarasota often gets more sunshine than Lewisburg. Sarasota gets 200 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Lewisburg receives 153 hours of full sun.

Sarasota usually gets less rain in January than Lewisburg. Sarasota gets 2.3 inches (59 mm) of rain, while Lewisburg receives 2.5 inches (65 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Sarasota 59°F (15°C) 
    Lewisburg 27°F (-3°C)

Should I visit Sarasota or Lewisburg in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Sarasota and Lewisburg. Most visitors come to Sarasota for the beaches during these months. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Lewisburg because of the small town charm.

In April, Sarasota is generally much warmer than Lewisburg. Daily temperatures in Sarasota average around 73°F (23°C), and Lewisburg fluctuates around 51°F (11°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Lewisburg this time of the year. In Sarasota, it's very sunny this time of the year. Sarasota usually receives more sunshine than Lewisburg during spring. Sarasota gets 299 hours of sunny skies, while Lewisburg receives 237 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Sarasota usually receives less rain than Lewisburg. Sarasota gets 2.1 inches (53 mm) of rain, while Lewisburg receives 3.2 inches (82 mm) of rain each month for the spring. June to November is the hurricane season in Sarasota.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Sarasota 73°F (23°C) 
    Lewisburg 51°F (11°C)

Typical Weather for Lewisburg and Sarasota

Sarasota Lewisburg
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 59°F (15°C) 2.3 inches (59 mm) 27°F (-3°C) 2.5 inches (65 mm)
Feb 62°F (17°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm) 30°F (-1°C) 2.8 inches (70 mm)
Mar 67°F (20°C) 3.9 inches (99 mm) 40°F (5°C) 3.2 inches (81 mm)
Apr 73°F (23°C) 2.1 inches (53 mm) 51°F (11°C) 3.2 inches (82 mm)
May 78°F (25°C) 2.4 inches (61 mm) 62°F (16°C) 3.9 inches (98 mm)
Jun 82°F (28°C) 6.5 inches (165 mm) 70°F (21°C) 4.3 inches (110 mm)
Jul 82°F (28°C) 8.4 inches (214 mm) 74°F (24°C) 4 inches (101 mm)
Aug 82°F (28°C) 8 inches (203 mm) 73°F (23°C) 3.4 inches (86 mm)
Sep 81°F (27°C) 6.3 inches (161 mm) 65°F (19°C) 3.4 inches (86 mm)
Oct 76°F (24°C) 2.6 inches (65 mm) 54°F (12°C) 3.3 inches (84 mm)
Nov 69°F (20°C) 1.8 inches (45 mm) 44°F (7°C) 3.7 inches (95 mm)
Dec 62°F (17°C) 2.2 inches (56 mm) 33°F (1°C) 3 inches (77 mm)