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

Should you visit Sarasota or Seattle?

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 Seattle. 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. Other popular activities here include museums, nightlife, and food. See Sarasota travel costs.

Seattle

Seattle is a progressive, cultural, and outdoorsy city. Travelers will also find plenty of sights and attractions here, as it's a big city that attracts lots of visitors. Seattle is a beautiful place to visit, too. Visitors also love the beaches, hiking, and shopping. See Seattle travel costs.

Sarasota and Seattle: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Sarasota or Seattle?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Seattle than Sarasota, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Seattle is more popular for its theatre productions, food, nightlife, music, hiking, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Sarasota is known for its resorts. Sarasota is popular for its sandy beaches and its fun activities. Seattle is popular for its beautiful waterfront setting, diverse culinary scene, thriving art and cultural venues, and being the home of many international tech companies. It is also home to The Space Needle.

How is Sarasota different from Seattle?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

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.

Seattle offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. The city's most iconic landmark is the Space Needle. There's also a zoo, aquarium, and a handful of nice museums. Several favorites include the Chihuly Garden and Glass, the Museum of History & Industry, and the Seattle Art Museum.

Is Sarasota or Seattle Better for Theater?

Seattle is a good destination for its theatre productions. However, Sarasota is not a theatre destination.

If you have some extra time in Seattle, take in a show. There are a handful of theaters where you can enjoy traveling Broadway shows or smaller productions.

Sarasota is not a theatre destination.

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

Seattle 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.

Seattle has a huge number of terrific restaurants. The city has many diverse dining options that make it a popular foodie destination. The seafood is world-class with many restaurants offering fresh caught salmon and oysters. There are also many great Asian restaurants with Pho, sushi, and dim sum all being popular around town. Seattle is also famous as the birthplace of Starbucks coffee, and both chain and independent coffee shops are common. Finally, make sure you check out the donuts at Pike's Place Market.

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 Seattle Better for Nightlife?

Seattle is great for nightlife and partying. Also, Sarasota is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its evening party scene.

Many people head to Seattle for the nightlife scene. The city is known for its breweries and eclectic nightlife scene. There is a thriving theater scene as well as many bars and trendy restaurants. The best neighborhoods for nightlife include Capitol Hill, Belltown, and Downtown.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Sarasota. 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.

Is Sarasota or Seattle Better for Music?

Seattle is great for its live music scene. However, Sarasota is not a live music destination.

The music scene in Seattle draws a good crowd. The city has developed its own music culture around several genres including alternative rock and grunge.

Sarasota is not a live music destination.

Is Sarasota or Seattle Better for Resorts?

Sarasota is a nice place to visit for its resorts. However, Seattle is not a resort destination.

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

Seattle is not a resort destination.

Is Sarasota or Seattle Better for Beaches?

Sarasota and Seattle both offer good beaches.

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.

Seattle is a good option for a beach vacation. The city is surrounded by water so there are a number of rocky and sandy beaches nearby. Some beaches are more popular with locals while others attract a large amount of tourists. Alki Beach Park, Discovery Park, and Golden Gardens Park are among the best.

Is Sarasota or Seattle Better for Hiking?

Seattle is great for hiking. However, Sarasota is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors go to Seattle for the hiking trails. It's famously an outdoorsy city and the hiking will not disappoint. Within a half hour drive of town you'll find beautiful forests and stunning natural beauty. Head into the Cascades, to the coastal rainforests, or around Mount Rainier for all kinds of diverse landscapes. Seattle is well situated for you to experience hiking through the diverse Pacific Northwest landscapes.

Sarasota is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Sarasota or Seattle?

If you're looking to go shopping, Sarasota and Seattle both offer plenty of good 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 Seattle to go shopping. Shopping in town has an eclectic mix of high end brands, local vendors, and vintage shops. There are farmers markets as well as the famous Pike Place Market, but also major malls with all of the standard department stores.

Is Sarasota or Seattle More Beautiful?

Seattle is a good destination for its scenery and beauty. However, Sarasota is not a destination known for its beauty.

Seattle is a beautiful place to visit, too. Set against the backdrop of Mt. Rainier, the city has both natural and architectural beauty. It's also beautifully situated on the water with lots of parks and vegetation throughout.

Sarasota is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Sarasota or Seattle Better for Families?

Sarasota is renowned for its family-friendly activities. Also, Seattle is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

Sarasota is an amazing family-friendly city to visit. 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.

Seattle is a family-friendly city. This is an outdoor city with plenty of places where kids can run around and experience nature. There are several good museums as well as outdoor activities, parks, and a zoo. Make sure you check out the Burke Museum of Natural History and Culture, Volunteer Park, and Artists at Play Playground.

Is Sarasota or Seattle Better for Couples?

Sarasota and Seattle both good destinations for a couple.

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

Seattle is a good city for couples to visit. The city has a laid back vibe, a nice downtown area, and plenty of outdoor activities. There are a diversity of restaurants to enjoy and a great nightlife scene that makes for a good couple's getaway.

Is Sarasota or Seattle Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

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

Plenty of backpackers visit Seattle. Although it's not the most popular city for backpackers in America, the city's chill vibe, fun breweries, and lively setting make it a great spot for young backpackers.

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 Seattle Better for Students?

Seattle is great for its student-friendly activities. However, Sarasota is not popular with students.

Many students visit Seattle. It is a major IT center with a large university, so international students will have plenty of opportunities here. It's also a vibrant city with many outdoor recreational opportunities and a fun nightlife scene.

Sarasota is not popular with students.

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

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

While Seattle offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There is a light rail system, a monorail, a street car, and buses.

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 Seattle a more walkable city?

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

Seattle is a very walkable city. Many neighborhoods are very walkable, particularly in the downtown and major tourist areas.

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 Seattle Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Seattle or Sarasota?

How long in Sarasota or Seattle?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Sarasota and Seattle. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Sarasota than in Seattle. Usually, 2-5 days is a good amount of time for Sarasota, and 2-3 days is enough time in Seattle.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Seattle 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 Seattle.

One day in Sarasota or Seattle?

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

Seattle is a big city with plenty to do. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. 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 Seattle?

In Sarasota, you'll find food and shopping. 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 Sarasota has to offer.

Seattle 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 spend some time hiking while you're in the area. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Seattle, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Sarasota or Seattle?

Sarasota 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 Sarasota has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

Seattle 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 Seattle?

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

Seattle is a great place to explore. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. 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 Seattle, we can see that Sarasota is more expensive. And not only is Seattle much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Seattle would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Seattle 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 Seattle.

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

Which is Bigger, Sarasota or Seattle?

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

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 Seattle in the Summer?

Both Seattle and Sarasota during the summer are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Sarasota in the summer for the beaches and the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Seattle for the beaches, the hiking, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In the summer, Sarasota is a little warmer than Seattle. Typically, the summer temperatures in Sarasota in July average around 82°F (28°C), and Seattle averages at about 67°F (19°C).

In Seattle, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Sarasota. In the summer, Sarasota often gets less sunshine than Seattle. Sarasota gets 265 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Seattle receives 313 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Sarasota. Sarasota usually gets more rain in July than Seattle. Sarasota gets 8.4 inches (214 mm) of rain, while Seattle receives 0.9 inches (22 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Sarasota or Seattle in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Sarasota and Seattle. Most visitors come to Sarasota for the shopping scene during these months. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Seattle because of the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Sarasota is generally much warmer than Seattle. Daily temperatures in Sarasota average around 76°F (24°C), and Seattle fluctuates around 54°F (12°C).

In Sarasota, it's very sunny this time of the year. Sarasota usually receives more sunshine than Seattle during autumn. Sarasota gets 234 hours of sunny skies, while Seattle receives 143 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Sarasota usually receives less rain than Seattle. Sarasota gets 2.6 inches (65 mm) of rain, while Seattle receives 3.3 inches (83 mm) of rain each month for the autumn. June to November is the hurricane season in Sarasota.

Should I visit Sarasota or Seattle in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Sarasota as well as Seattle. The winter months attract visitors to Sarasota because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, the museums, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine are the main draw to Seattle this time of year.

Sarasota is much warmer than Seattle in the winter. The daily temperature in Sarasota averages around 59°F (15°C) in January, and Seattle fluctuates around 42°F (5°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Sarasota this time of the year. In the winter, Sarasota often gets more sunshine than Seattle. Sarasota gets 200 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Seattle receives 67 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Seattle. Sarasota usually gets less rain in January than Seattle. Sarasota gets 2.3 inches (59 mm) of rain, while Seattle receives 5.4 inches (136 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Sarasota or Seattle in the Spring?

Both Seattle and Sarasota are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The beaches are the main draw to Sarasota this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Seattle for the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty.

In the spring, Sarasota is much warmer than Seattle. Typically, the spring temperatures in Sarasota in April average around 73°F (23°C), and Seattle averages at about 51°F (11°C).

It's quite sunny in Seattle. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Sarasota. Sarasota usually receives more sunshine than Seattle during spring. Sarasota gets 299 hours of sunny skies, while Seattle receives 212 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Sarasota usually receives less rain than Seattle. Sarasota gets 2.1 inches (53 mm) of rain, while Seattle receives 2.5 inches (64 mm) of rain each month for the spring. June to November in Sarasota is the hurricane season.

Typical Weather for Seattle and Sarasota