A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Austin vs. Roanoke for Food, Nightlife, Attractions, and Hiking

Should you visit Austin or Roanoke?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Austin or Roanoke, this travel comparison, which includes costs, can help. The overall cost of travel is usually a consideration when deciding where to go next, and the cost comparison down below can help you decide based on the average prices from other travelers along with your own travel budget.

Austin

Austin is a entrepreneurial, eccentric, and unconventional city. With a variety of activities, it's a big city. Austin is beautiful destination to visit. It's also popular because of the food, shopping, and museums. See Austin travel costs.

Roanoke

Roanoke is a outdoorsy, laid back, and scenic town. It's also known for shopping, museums, and nightlife. See Roanoke travel costs.

Austin and Roanoke: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Austin or Roanoke?

You'll generally find more things to do in Austin than Roanoke. Austin is bigger than Roanoke, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Austin is better known for its museums and attractions, food, nightlife, music, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Roanoke is more popular for its hiking. Austin is well known for its live music scene, excellent Texas barbecue, authentic Mexican food, and vibrant student population. Also, Austin is famous for The Texas Capital. Roanoke is well known for its welcoming hospitality and convenient access to the Blue Ridge Mountains.

How is Austin different from Roanoke?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Austin or Roanoke?

Austin is a great city for its historical sights. Also, Roanoke is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its sights and museums.

Austin offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. Austin has a number of great museums and sights including the Blanton Museum of Art, the Mexic-Arte Museum, and the Bob Bullock Texas State History Museum. There's also a huge supply of local art galleries. Perhaps the most notable landmark in town is the beautiful Texas Capital Building

Roanoke is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. There are several museums and sights around town such as the Living-Coral Reef Aquarium, the Science Museum of Western Virginia, and the Taubman Museum of Art. There's also the Harrison Museum of African American Culture and even the Roanoke Pinball Museum.

Is the Food Better in Austin or Roanoke? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Austin is renowned for its local flavors and cuisine. However, Roanoke is not known for its local cuisine and restaurants.

For foodies, Austin is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. It is credited with being the original food truck city and you'll find many diverse food truck options around town. There is also amazing Mexican food, world renowned Texas barbecue, and many modern restaurants that reflect the city's culinary influence.

Roanoke offers some easy restaurants to choose from. There are burger joints, pizza restaurants, and plenty of other casual eateries where you can grab a quick meal.

Is Austin or Roanoke Better for Nightlife?

Austin is renowned for its evening party scene. Also, Roanoke is not as popular, but is still a nice town for nightlife.

Austin is a destination that you simply have to visit at least once for nightlife. It's nightlife is centered around its thriving live music scene. Head for Sixth Street for some of the most popular bars and clubs. There are also many music festivals and outdoor concerts, particularly during the summer months. Popular bars and clubs around town include the White Horse, the Rose Room, and Antone's Nightclub.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Roanoke. There are local venues in the area that have drinks and often live music. You'll find jazz, country, rock, and bluegrass, particularly along Crooked Road in Franklin County.

Is Austin or Roanoke Better for Music?

Austin is renowned for its music scene. However, Roanoke is not a live music destination.

Austin has become a mecca for musicians from around the world. Music is what gives this city its character. There are many live music venues, concerts, and music festivals to experience. Austin has influenced many music genres such as rock, blues, jazz, hip hop, punk, and country.

Roanoke is not a live music destination.

Is Austin or Roanoke Better for Hiking?

Roanoke is a great destination for its hiking experiences. However, Austin is a city with minimal options for hiking.

You'll find a nice variety of hiking trails around Roanoke. The surrounding countryside is filled with mountain hikes. The Blue Ridge Mountains are crossed by trails that take you to waterfalls, scenic viewpoints, and through serene forest. McAfee Knob, Sharp Top Mountain, and Roaring Run Trail some of the best hikes in the area.

Many visitors include a hike while visiting Austin. Head just outside of town to explore a few great hiking spots right near town.

Is the Shopping Better in Austin or Roanoke?

Shopping is a popular activity in both Roanoke and Austin.

Austin is a great destination for shopping. There are a number of local boutiques around town where you can enjoy shopping.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Roanoke. Market Street in Downtown Roanoke is lined with local vendors, particularly at the Historic Roanoke City Market. The town also has a mall and several shopping centers.

Is Austin or Roanoke More Beautiful?

Austin is adequate for its scenery and beauty. However, Roanoke is not a destination known for its beauty.

Austin is beautiful destination to visit. The city has some nearby natural beauty as well as an eclectic style.

Roanoke is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Austin or Roanoke Better for Families?

Austin and Roanoke are both notable destinations for the whole family.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Austin. The city is a popular destination for young travelers, but there are also some family-friendly activities like Barton Springs, Zilker Park, and several natural swimming holes. There's a number of nice parks around town that are great for kids of all ages.

Roanoke offers lots of family activities. The Blue Ridge Parkway is filled with kid-friendly hiking trails and fun outdoor activities. You can visit the Blue Ridge Institute & Farm Museum or Smith Mountain Lake Farm. There's also Virginia Children's Theater.

Is Austin or Roanoke Better for Couples?

Roanoke is a great destination for romance. Also, Austin is still popular, but not quite as popular for its romantic activities.

Couples visit Roanoke frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. Staying at a quaint bed and breakfast, tucked into the beautiful mountain setting is the perfect romantic getaway. Nearby there are vineyards and wine cellars, as well as gardens, hikes, and other outdoor activities.

Austin makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Young couples will enjoy the city for its lively nightlife, fun music scene, and youthful vibe. There are also many outdoor areas where you can hike or explore. The restaurant scene is among the best as well.

Is Austin or Roanoke Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Austin is a great city for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Roanoke is not as popular, but is still a nice town for backpackers.

Plenty of budget travelers and backpackers visit Austin. Although the city is relatively small, it does see a disproportionate number of backpackers. There are a couple of hostels in town as well.

Roanoke is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. There are several campgrounds in the area as well as great hiking trails.

Is Austin or Roanoke Better for Students?

Austin is a great city for its student-friendly activities. However, Roanoke is not popular with students.

Austin is a very popular city for students and younger travelers. The city has a huge university, the University of Texas at Austin, and it is a young city with tons for international students. There is a great nightlife scene and plenty for students to see and do.

Roanoke is not popular with students.

Is Austin or Roanoke Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

You'll find somewhat comparable public transit options in both Austin and Roanoke.

Public transit is generally limited in Austin. There are city buses and a very limited lightrail system, but you really need a car to explore the city.

Public transit is mostly limited in Roanoke. There are buses as well as a free trolley service through the downtown, but you really do need a car to get most places.

Is Austin or Roanoke a more walkable city?

Austin and Roanoke both are respectable when exploring on foot.

Austin is generally not very walkable. The city, like most southern cities, isn't very walkable and it's important to have a car to get around. There are some downtown areas that are pedestrian-friendly.

Roanoke is generally not a very walkable city. The downtown area is the most walkable part of town, with sidewalks and more dense development styles.

For even more information, also check out Is Austin Worth Visiting? and Is Roanoke Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Roanoke or Austin?

How long in Austin or Roanoke?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Austin and Roanoke. In our opinion, Austin has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Austin than Roanoke. In general, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Austin, and 1-3 days is enough time in Roanoke.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Austin than Roanoke 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 Austin.

One day in Austin or Roanoke?

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

Many travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the destination of Roanoke. Hikers are also drawn to this area. One day is often enough time to do most activities.

A weekend in Austin or Roanoke?

In Austin, you'll find museums and nightlife. 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 Austin has to offer.

Roanoke is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Five days in Austin or Roanoke?

Austin is a great place to explore. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Roanoke. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A week in Austin or Roanoke?

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

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the laid back destination of Roanoke. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Los Angeles, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from New York City, The Best 2-Week Tours from New York City, and The Best 2-Week Tours from Anchorage.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Austin or Roanoke?

Austin has a larger population, and is about 7 times larger than the population of Roanoke. When comparing the sizes of Austin and Roanoke, 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 Austin or Roanoke?

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 Austin or Roanoke in the Summer?

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

In July, Austin is generally a little warmer than Roanoke. Daily temperatures in Austin average around 87°F (30°C), and Roanoke fluctuates around 79°F (26°C).

In Roanoke, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Austin. In the summer, Austin often gets more sunshine than Roanoke. Austin gets 318 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Roanoke receives 273 hours of full sun.

Roanoke gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Austin usually gets less rain in July than Roanoke. Austin gets 1.9 inches (48 mm) of rain, while Roanoke receives 4.2 inches (106 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Austin or Roanoke in the Autumn?

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

Austin is a little warmer than Roanoke in the autumn. The daily temperature in Austin averages around 73°F (23°C) in October, and Roanoke fluctuates around 60°F (16°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Roanoke this time of the year. In Austin, it's very sunny this time of the year. Austin usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Roanoke during autumn. Austin gets 214 hours of sunny skies, while Roanoke receives 210 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Austin usually receives less rain than Roanoke. Austin gets 3 inches (77 mm) of rain, while Roanoke receives 3.7 inches (94 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Austin or Roanoke in the Winter?

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

It's quite cold in Roanoke in the winter. In the winter, Austin is much warmer than Roanoke. Typically, the winter temperatures in Austin in January average around 51°F (11°C), and Roanoke averages at about 38°F (3°C).

In the winter, Austin often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Roanoke. Austin gets 163 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Roanoke receives 165 hours of full sun.

Austin usually gets less rain in January than Roanoke. Austin gets 1.9 inches (48 mm) of rain, while Roanoke receives 2.9 inches (73 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Austin or Roanoke in the Spring?

Both Roanoke and Austin are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The activities around the city and the natural beauty are the main draw to Austin this time of year.

In April, Austin is generally a little warmer than Roanoke. Daily temperatures in Austin average around 71°F (22°C), and Roanoke fluctuates around 59°F (15°C).

It's quite sunny in Roanoke. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Austin. Austin usually receives less sunshine than Roanoke during spring. Austin gets 209 hours of sunny skies, while Roanoke receives 246 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Austin usually receives more rain than Roanoke. Austin gets 3.5 inches (89 mm) of rain, while Roanoke receives 3.1 inches (79 mm) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Roanoke and Austin