Need advice - What would you do?

Groomsman at a destination wedding — stay at the resort or nearby hotel?

One of my close friends from high school is getting married in Florida, and I’m a groomsman. The wedding is at a beautiful hotel/resort, and the entire wedding party is planning to stay there since all the wedding events will be happening there. The wedding is adults-only, so my wife and kids won’t be attending. My wife is completely understanding of me going alone since I’m in the wedding party.

We were recently given the price for the hotel block, and even with the discounted wedding rate, the resort is quite expensive for only 2 nights. On the flip side, I’ve found several hotels nearby for half the price.

I talked to the groom about it, and he said he would understand if I stayed at the cheaper hotel, although he did seem a little disappointed with me asking. I would consider splitting a room with other people I know, but they all will be bringing their significant others.

We can afford it, but I think I’d rather use that money for a family trip next year. What would you do? Would you pay more to stay at the wedding resort with the rest of the wedding party, and for the convenience of being in the same place where all the events are taking place, or would you book the nearby hotel and save the money?