A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America West Palm Beach vs. Detroit for Nightlife, Families, Couples, and Food

Should you visit West Palm Beach or Detroit?

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

Should I visit West Palm Beach or Detroit? 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.

West Palm Beach

West Palm Beach is a diverse, vibrant, and fun-filled beach area. Visitors also love the scuba diving and snorkeling, beaches, and nightlife. See West Palm Beach travel costs.

Detroit

Detroit is a under-rated, hardworking, and overlooked city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. Other reasons to visit include food, shopping, and museums. See Detroit travel costs.

West Palm Beach and Detroit: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Active nightlife
  • Nice resorts
  • Good scuba and snorkeling destination
  • Popular beach
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with couples


Is there more to do in West Palm Beach or Detroit?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Detroit than West Palm Beach. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Detroit is very popular for its museums and attractions, food, music, shopping, and big city activities, while West Palm Beach attracts visitors for its resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, and beaches. West Palm Beach is more touristy than Detroit and is known for its nice resorts, a lively boardwalk, great seafood, and fun watersports. Detroit is famous for its Motown music, blue collar atmosphere, and influential auto industry. It is also well known for the Henry Ford Experience.

How is West Palm Beach different from Detroit?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in West Palm Beach or Detroit?

West Palm Beach
Detroit

Detroit is a popular place for its historical sights. However, West Palm Beach does not have museums and landmarks.

Detroit is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. Popular museums around town include the Detroit Institute of Arts, the Detroit Historical Museum, and the Michigan Science Center.

West Palm Beach does not have museums and landmarks.


Is the Food Better in West Palm Beach or Detroit? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

West Palm Beach
Detroit

Detroit is a popular place for its local flavors and cuisine. However, West Palm Beach is not known for its local cuisine and restaurants.

There are plenty of up and coming restaurants around Detroit. There's a local flavor to the food with a number of classic dishes that are popular like square pizza, Coney dogs, and corned beef egg rolls.

You'll find the standard options when it comes to food in West Palm Beach. Oceanfront restaurants usually have a great view and offer local and fresh seafood. There are also many local restaurants concentrated around Clematis Street and CityPlace districts.

Is West Palm Beach or Detroit Better for Nightlife?

West Palm Beach
Detroit

If the nightlife is your priority, you'll find very good options in both West Palm Beach and Detroit.

The nightlife in West Palm Beach has something for everybody. With rooftop bars and clubs, oceanfront venues, and plenty of nightlife options downtown, this city rivals most places when it comes to nightlife. The nightlife scene is particularly active during spring break, when university students head to town.

Detroit offers plenty to do in the evening. It's long history in music still influences the nightlife scene. You'll find bars, clubs, and other activities around town. Greektown and Midtown are both popular neighborhoods during the evening.

Is West Palm Beach or Detroit Better for Music?

West Palm Beach
Detroit

Detroit is very popular for live music. However, West Palm Beach is not a live music destination.

Detroit is known as a music capital around the world. Few cities have such an influential music industry. It's home to Motown and is well known for its soul music, jazz, blues, and rap.

West Palm Beach is not a live music destination.


Is West Palm Beach or Detroit Better for Resorts?

West Palm Beach
Detroit

West Palm Beach is an unbeatable place for its luxury resorts. However, Detroit is not a resort destination.

West Palm Beach offers an unforgettable resort vacation. All of the major names are present including the Hilton, Marriott, and Four Seasons.

Detroit is not a resort destination.

Is West Palm Beach or Detroit Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

West Palm Beach
Detroit

West Palm Beach is a very popular place for its diving and snorkeling. However, Detroit is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Many visitors go to West Palm Beach to enjoy scuba diving and snorkeling. Check out Phil Foster Park in Rivera Beach. It's a man-made reef that is surprisingly clear.

Detroit is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is West Palm Beach or Detroit Better for Beaches?

West Palm Beach
Detroit

West Palm Beach is an unbeatable place for the beach. However, Detroit is not a beach destination.

The beaches in West Palm Beach are among the best in the world. From bustling beaches with a boardwalk to quieter, more relaxing beaches surrounded by parkland, there are are number of options in the area.

Detroit is not a beach destination.


Is the Shopping Better in West Palm Beach or Detroit?

West Palm Beach
Detroit

Detroit is a popular place for shopping. However, West Palm Beach is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Plenty of visitors enjoy shopping while in Detroit. There are several shopping streets like Woodward Avenue. There are also outlet malls, shopping centers, and Eastern Market.

West Palm Beach is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is West Palm Beach or Detroit Better for Families?

West Palm Beach
Detroit

West Palm Beach is a very popular place for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Detroit is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, West Palm Beach is very family-friendly. Animal lovers will appreciate the zoos and aquariums in the area. Check out McCarthy's Wildlife Sanctuary, Manatee Lagoon, the Palm Beach Zoo, and the South Florida Science Center and Aquarium.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Detroit. Head to the Detroit Zoo or check out one of the amusement parks in the area. Kids will enjoy a visit to Legoland and there's also the Sea Life Michigan Aquarium. You could also spend some time visiting the unique museums in the area.

Is West Palm Beach or Detroit Better for Couples?

West Palm Beach
Detroit

West Palm Beach is a very popular place for its romantic activities. However, Detroit is lacking in good options for couples.

West Palm Beach makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Couples will enjoy kayaking, dining out, or simply relaxing on the beach. It's fun to spend a day exploring the botanical gardens and an evening wandering around Clematis Street.

Detroit is not always the best place to visit for a couple. It's not a city that usually brings to mind romance, but if you find yourself here for a couple of days, there's a RiverWalk area and some interesting local neighborhoods.


Is West Palm Beach or Detroit Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

West Palm Beach
Detroit

West Palm Beach is a nice place to visit for times when you don't have a car. However, Detroit is lacking in good options for its public transit.

West Palm Beach has some public transit options. There's a downtown trolley, a commuter trail line (connecting West Palm Beach, Miami, and Fort Lauderdale), and a bus system with about 30 lines.

Public transit is generally limited in Detroit. There's a streetcar and bus system, but the car is still king in Motor City.

Is West Palm Beach or Detroit a more walkable city?

West Palm Beach
Detroit

West Palm Beach and Detroit are nice when it comes to walkability.

West Palm Beach is somewhat walkable. West Palm Beach has a surprisingly walkable area and it's possible to explore the downtown area on foot.

Detroit is a somewhat walkable place. There are parts of downtown Detroit that are walkable, but most people need a car to get around.

For even more information, also check out Is West Palm Beach Worth Visiting? and Is Detroit Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Detroit or West Palm Beach?

How long in West Palm Beach or Detroit?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both West Palm Beach and Detroit. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in West Palm Beach than in Detroit. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for West Palm Beach, and 1-3 days is enough time in Detroit.

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

Couples should spend more time in West Palm Beach than Detroit. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in West Palm Beach that are great for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Detroit than West Palm Beach 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 Detroit.


  • How many days in West Palm Beach or Detroit? Ideal Length of Stay
    West Palm Beach 3-7 
    Detroit 1-3

One day in West Palm Beach or Detroit?

In West Palm Beach, you'll find nightlife and scuba diving and snorkeling. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. One reason most visitors come is for the beaches. This beach area offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

The hardworking destination of Detroit offers live music and food. It's no surprise that live music is why people visit. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One day is usually enough time to experience most activities.


A weekend in West Palm Beach or Detroit?

In West Palm Beach, you'll find scuba diving and snorkeling and nightlife. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Most people come for the beaches. One reason most visitors come is for the beaches. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

The city of Detroit offers food and shopping. A weekend here is typical. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything. A weekend is often enough time to do most activities.

Five days in West Palm Beach or Detroit?

West Palm Beach is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that West Palm Beach has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

Detroit is a great place to explore. It's no surprise that live music is why people visit. This city offers something for everyone. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

A week in West Palm Beach or Detroit?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in West Palm Beach. In West Palm Beach, you'll find scuba diving and snorkeling and nightlife. One reason most visitors come is for the beaches. It's also a relaxing resort destination. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one week here.

Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Detroit. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 3-Week Tours in United States of America, The Best Bicycle Tours in United States of America, Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in United States of America, and The Best Coach Bus Tours in United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Detroit or West Palm Beach?

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

  • West Palm Beach Prices
    USA Prices
    Detroit Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    West Palm Beach $378
    Detroit $165

The average daily cost (per person) in West Palm Beach is $378, while the average daily cost in Detroit is $165. 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 West Palm Beach and Detroit in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    West Palm Beach $234
    Detroit $64
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    West Palm Beach $468
    Detroit $128
Compare Hotels in West Palm Beach and Detroit

Looking for a hotel in West Palm Beach or Detroit? 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 West Palm Beach


Hotels in Detroit


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: West Palm Beach Hotel Prices and Detroit Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    West Palm Beach $49
    Detroit $37

Hired Cars and Shuttles in West Palm Beach

Also for West Palm Beach, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Private Transfer from Palm Beach to Palm Beach Cruise Port: $72
  • Private Transfer from Palm Beach Airport (PBI) to Palm Beach Port: $72
  • Private Transfer from PBI to Palm Beach City : $149
  • Private Transfer from Cruise Port of Palm Beach to Palm Beach: $72
  • Port of Palm Beach to Palm Beach Intl Airport (PBI) - Departure Private Transfer: $42
  • Palm Beach hotels to Cruise Port of Palm Beach - Departure Private Transfer : $109
  • Palm Beach Intl Airport (PBI) to Port of Palm Beach - RoundTrip Private Transfer: $84
  • Palm Beach International Airport: Transfer to Palm Beach: $70
  • Palm Beach Airport (PBI) to Palm Beach City - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $213
  • Limo Service Transfer To or From Palm Beach Airport and Hotels: $139
  • Cruise Port of Palm Beach to Palm Beach hotels - Arrival Private Transfer : $109
  • Cruise Port of Palm Beach to Palm Beach Arrival Private Transfer: $155

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Detroit

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

  • Detroit Airport (DTW) to Detroit City - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $183
  • Private Transfer from Detroit (DTW) Airport to Detroit City: $155
  • Private Transfer from Detroit City to Detroit (DTW) Airport: $155
  • Departure Private Transfer: Detroit to Detroit Airport DTW in Luxury SUV: $142
  • Departure Private Transfer: Detroit to Detroit Airport DTW in Business Car: $108
  • Detroit City to Detroit Airport (DTW) - Departure Private Transfer: $92
  • Detroit Airport (DTW) to Detroit City - Arrival Private Transfer: $92
  • Private Departure Transfer - to Detroit Airport (DTW) by SUV: $90
  • Private Departure Transfer to Detroit Airport DTW: $61

Is it cheaper to fly into West Palm Beach or Detroit?

Prices for flights to both Detroit and West Palm Beach 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
    West Palm Beach $114
    Detroit $76

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in West Palm Beach

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

  • Mornings in the Market Food Tour: $75
  • Mornings in the Market Food Tour: $75
  • Downtown West Palm Beach Food Tour: $94
  • Downtown Food Tour: $94
  • Food Tour of Historic West Palm Beach Neighborhoods: $105
  • Prohibition Dinner & Drinks Tour: $110
  • Prohibition Dinner & Drinks Tour: $110

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Detroit

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

  • Secret Food Tour with Tastings: $80
  • Detroit Downtown Food Tour: 6+ Iconic Tastings in Motor City: $95
  • Detroit Flavors Food Tour: $150
  • Delicious in Detroit Food Tour: $159

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    West Palm Beach $19
    Detroit $21

Tours and Activities in West Palm Beach

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for West Palm Beach.

  • 2 ½ - Hour Guided Snorkel Tour of Phil Foster park, Free Videos!: $44
  • 3 Hour Cruise & Swimming Excursion from Downtown West Palm Beach: $77
  • Beginner Scuba Diving Experience With Videos in West Palm Beach: $99
  • Blue Heron Bridge Guided Snorkel Tour : $80
  • Bulk Candy Store Tour: $13
  • Clear Kayak Eco Tour in Jupiter, Florida: $75
  • Clear Kayak Peanut Island Guided Tour Palm Beach Singer Island: $90
  • Cruise the Palm Beach Intracoastal on a 90 minute Tour : $65
  • Experience Peanut Island Adventures: $50
  • Experience Peanut Island Adventures with Go Pro : $300
  • Flamingle Happy Hour Cruise: $40
  • Guided Clear Kayak Eco-Tour of Jupiter: $89

Tours and Activities in Detroit

For Detroit, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • Ann Arbor Scavenger Hunt Interactive Walking Tour: $35
  • Best Detroit Walking Tour: $105
  • Best Downtown Detroit Historical Walking Tour: $100
  • Chauffeured Historic Tour of Detroit with Flexibility : $65
  • Detroit Drunks of Antiquity Historic Bar Tour : $65
  • Detroit Food Walking Tour: $159
  • Detroit Guided Pedicab Tour Explore the City in Comfort: $125
  • Detroit Pistons Basketball Game Ticket at Little Caesars Arena: $23
  • Detroit Private Sightseeing Tour with Daily Chauffeur: $3,000
  • Detroit Red Wings Ice Hockey Game Ticket at Little Caesars Arena: $11
  • Detroit's Hidden History Guided Walking Tour: $35
  • Architectural Beauty and Hidden Gems Walking Tour: $120

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    West Palm Beach $39
    Detroit $20


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

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


Which is Bigger, West Palm Beach or Detroit?

Detroit has a larger population, and is about 10 times larger than the population of West Palm Beach. When comparing the sizes of West Palm Beach and Detroit, 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 West Palm Beach or Detroit?

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 West Palm Beach or Detroit in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both West Palm Beach and Detroit. Many travelers come to West Palm Beach for the beaches, snorkeling, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Detroit in the summer for the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, West Palm Beach is a little warmer than Detroit. Typically, the summer temperatures in West Palm Beach in July average around 82°F (28°C), and Detroit averages at about 74°F (24°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Detroit this time of the year. In West Palm Beach, it's very sunny this time of the year. West Palm Beach usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Detroit during summer. West Palm Beach gets 316 hours of sunny skies, while Detroit receives 319 hours of full sun in the summer.

West Palm Beach gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In July, West Palm Beach usually receives more rain than Detroit. West Palm Beach gets 6.5 inches (166 mm) of rain, while Detroit receives 3.4 inches (85 mm) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    West Palm Beach 82°F (28°C) 
    Detroit 74°F (24°C)

Should I visit West Palm Beach or Detroit in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to West Palm Beach as well as Detroit. Also, most visitors come to Detroit for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the music scene during these months.

In October, West Palm Beach is generally much warmer than Detroit. Daily temperatures in West Palm Beach average around 78°F (25°C), and Detroit fluctuates around 54°F (12°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in West Palm Beach this time of the year. In the autumn, West Palm Beach often gets more sunshine than Detroit. West Palm Beach gets 275 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Detroit receives 172 hours of full sun.

West Palm Beach receives a lot of rain in the autumn. West Palm Beach usually gets more rain in October than Detroit. West Palm Beach gets 8.7 inches (222 mm) of rain, while Detroit receives 2.3 inches (58 mm) of rain this time of the year. Also, June to November in West Palm Beach is the hurricane season.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    West Palm Beach 78°F (25°C) 
    Detroit 54°F (12°C)

Should I visit West Palm Beach or Detroit in the Winter?

Both Detroit and West Palm Beach are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to West Palm Beach for the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Detroit because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

The weather in Detroit can be very cold. West Palm Beach is much warmer than Detroit in the winter. The daily temperature in West Palm Beach averages around 65°F (19°C) in January, and Detroit fluctuates around 25°F (-4°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in West Palm Beach. West Palm Beach usually receives more sunshine than Detroit during winter. West Palm Beach gets 243 hours of sunny skies, while Detroit receives 120 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, West Palm Beach usually receives more rain than Detroit. West Palm Beach gets 2.6 inches (66 mm) of rain, while Detroit receives 2 inches (50 mm) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    West Palm Beach 65°F (19°C) 
    Detroit 25°F (-4°C)

Should I visit West Palm Beach or Detroit in the Spring?

Both Detroit and West Palm Beach during the spring are popular places to visit. The spring months attract visitors to West Palm Beach because of the beaches. Furthermore, the activities around the city are the main draw to Detroit this time of year.

In the spring, West Palm Beach is much warmer than Detroit. Typically, the spring temperatures in West Palm Beach in April average around 74°F (23°C), and Detroit averages at about 49°F (9°C).

In Detroit, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in West Palm Beach. In the spring, West Palm Beach often gets more sunshine than Detroit. West Palm Beach gets 300 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Detroit receives 223 hours of full sun.

West Palm Beach usually gets more rain in April than Detroit. West Palm Beach gets 3.5 inches (89 mm) of rain, while Detroit receives 3.2 inches (80 mm) of rain this time of the year. Also, the hurricane season in West Palm Beach is June to November.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    West Palm Beach 74°F (23°C) 
    Detroit 49°F (9°C)

Typical Weather for Detroit and West Palm Beach

West Palm Beach Detroit
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 65°F (19°C) 2.6 inches (66 mm) 25°F (-4°C) 2 inches (50 mm)
Feb 66°F (19°C) 2.6 inches (66 mm) 27°F (-3°C) 2.1 inches (54 mm)
Mar 70°F (21°C) 3.3 inches (84 mm) 37°F (3°C) 2.8 inches (72 mm)
Apr 74°F (23°C) 3.5 inches (89 mm) 49°F (9°C) 3.2 inches (80 mm)
May 78°F (25°C) 5.2 inches (131 mm) 60°F (16°C) 3 inches (76 mm)
Jun 81°F (27°C) 8.1 inches (207 mm) 70°F (21°C) 3.8 inches (97 mm)
Jul 82°F (28°C) 6.5 inches (166 mm) 74°F (24°C) 3.4 inches (85 mm)
Aug 83°F (28°C) 6.9 inches (176 mm) 73°F (23°C) 3.4 inches (86 mm)
Sep 81°F (27°C) 9.8 inches (250 mm) 65°F (19°C) 3.4 inches (87 mm)
Oct 78°F (25°C) 8.7 inches (222 mm) 54°F (12°C) 2.3 inches (58 mm)
Nov 72°F (22°C) 2.5 inches (63 mm) 43°F (6°C) 3 inches (75 mm)
Dec 67°F (20°C) 2.2 inches (56 mm) 31°F (-1°C) 3.2 inches (82 mm)