A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Blue Ridge vs. Nags Head for Food, Nightlife, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Blue Ridge or Nags Head?

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 Blue Ridge and Nags Head. 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.

Blue Ridge

Blue Ridge is a outdoorsy, historic, and quaint town. With plenty of activities and sights, this is a small town worth visiting. Blue Ridge is a gorgeous place to visit. Other reasons to visit include shopping, nightlife, and food. See Blue Ridge travel costs.

Nags Head

Other reasons to visit include nightlife and food. See Nags Head travel costs.

Blue Ridge and Nags Head: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good for hiking
  • Fun shopping
  • Known for its beauty
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Small town charm
Pros
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers


Is there more to do in Blue Ridge or Nags Head?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Blue Ridge. Although Blue Ridge and Nags Head are both popular with visitors, Blue Ridge has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Blue Ridge is more popular for its museums and attractions, food, hiking, shopping, small town charm, and impressive beauty, while Nags Head is known for its nightlife. Blue Ridge is more touristy than Nags Head and is known for its beautiful mountain setting, miles of hiking trails, and small town atmosphere. It is also home to Chattahoochee National Forest. Nags Head is popular for

How is Blue Ridge different from Nags Head?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Blue Ridge or Nags Head?

Blue Ridge
Nags Head

Blue Ridge is adequate for its historical sights. However, Nags Head does not have museums and landmarks.

While most people don't head to Blue Ridge specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. While you don't immediately think of museums in the area, there are a couple. The Dahlonega Gold Museum gives information on the gold rush and mining industry in town. In nearby Tennessee, Ducktown Basin Museum is a historic mine site that is open for tours.

Nags Head does not have museums and landmarks.


Is the Food Better in Blue Ridge or Nags Head? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Blue Ridge
Nags Head

Blue Ridge is great for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Nags Head is not as popular, but is still a nice for its local cuisine and restaurants.

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in Blue Ridge. You'll find plenty of small town restaurants serving local dishes like barbecue, trout, and biscuits with gravy. Southern food is popular, but you'll also find plenty of breweries and wineries in the area. Head downtown for an assortment of options that include southern, vegan, and even international flavors.

Visitors will find a budding food and restaurant scene in Nags Head. There are a wide variety of seafood restaurants that serve locally caught fish, shrimp, and crabs. Cajon flavors are popular and you'll also find cheese grits at many places.

Is Blue Ridge or Nags Head Better for Nightlife?

Blue Ridge
Nags Head

Nags Head is a very popular place for nightlife. Also, Blue Ridge is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for nightlife and partying.

Nags Head has a large number of nightlife venues. You'll find the widest variety of nightlife options in the Outer Banks here. There are a number of bars and clubs around town where you can enjoy a drink or dance late into the night. During the peak summer months there's often live music at many places.

Blue Ridge has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. Head downtown for a mix of breweries, bars, and clubs where you'll find live music and a casual meal.

Is Blue Ridge or Nags Head Better for Hiking?

Blue Ridge
Nags Head

Blue Ridge is great for hiking. However, Nags Head is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors go to Blue Ridge for the hiking trails. There are miles of hiking trails in the area that take you to waterfalls and viewpoints. The starting point of the Appalachian Trail is also nearby, and another popular trail is the Benton MacKaye Trail. Options range from beginner to expert with everything in between.

Nags Head is not a hiking destination.


Is the Shopping Better in Blue Ridge or Nags Head?

Blue Ridge
Nags Head

Blue Ridge is great for shopping. However, Nags Head is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Blue Ridge. You'll find artisan shops, art galleries, and boutique clothing vendors. Many places are concentrated in the charming downtown area, which is fun to explore for a day or two.

Nags Head is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Blue Ridge or Nags Head More Beautiful?

Blue Ridge
Nags Head

Blue Ridge is a popular place for its scenery and beauty. However, Nags Head is not a destination known for its beauty.

Blue Ridge is a gorgeous place to visit. There are plenty of hikes to waterfalls and scenic viewpoints. There's also a scenic railroad as well as places to kayak or go horseback riding.

Nags Head is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Blue Ridge or Nags Head Better for Families?

Blue Ridge
Nags Head

Both Blue Ridge and Nags Head are superb family-friendly destinations.

Blue Ridge is a very family-friendly destination. Kids who enjoy hiking and playing outdoors will have fun here. There are waterfall hikes, fruit picking farms, and plenty of playgrounds. There's also a scenic railway and lots of places to sample treats.

Nags Head is a very kid-friendly town. It makes a wonderful base for the many family-friendly activities in the area. Jockey's Ridge is a fun place to visit with kids. There are also wonderful beaches and many kids enjoying flying kites.


Is Blue Ridge or Nags Head Better for Couples?

Blue Ridge
Nags Head

Blue Ridge is great for romance. Also, Nags Head is not as popular, but is still a nice for its romantic activities.

Blue Ridge is a great town if you're traveling as a couple. If you're looking for a cozy retreat where you can relax in a cabin, take long walks through nature, and enjoy local food, then this is your place. There are plenty of bed and breakfasts, vacation rentals, and rustic cabins with fireplaces and simple pleasures. If you want to escape it all then the mountains are the place to be.

Nags Head makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. There are great seafood restaurants and a number of activities in the area that are fun for couples.

Is Blue Ridge or Nags Head Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Blue Ridge
Nags Head

Blue Ridge is great for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Nags Head is not as popular, but is still a nice for backpackers.

Blue Ridge is very popular with the backpacker crowd. There are a number of campgrounds in the area as well as plenty of hikes that backpackers will enjoy. Nearby you'll also find the start of the famed Appalachian Trail.

Nags Head is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. This is one of the more affordable places to stay in the Outer Banks, so it appeals to more budget-oriented travelers.

Is Blue Ridge or Nags Head Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Blue Ridge
Nags Head

Neither Blue Ridge or Nags Head offer decent public transit.

Public transit is quite limited in Blue Ridge. There's no real public transportation system in the area.

Public transit is limited or non-existant in Nags Head. There's no real public transit around town, so you'll need to have your own car.


Is Blue Ridge or Nags Head a more walkable city?

Blue Ridge
Nags Head

Blue Ridge is a popular place for its walkability. However, Nags Head is not a good destination for its high level of walkability.

Blue Ridge is somewhat walkable. While the downtown area is relatively walkable, if you want to hike and get out in nature, you'll need to have a car.

Nags Head is generally not very walkable. This is one of the least walkable towns in the Outer Banks. You'll need a car to reach most restaurants and other activities in the area.

Should I spend more time in Nags Head or Blue Ridge?

How long in Blue Ridge or Nags Head?

Both Blue Ridge and Nags Head have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Nags Head than in Blue Ridge. Usually, 2-5 days is a good amount of time for Blue Ridge, and 4-7 days is enough time in Nags Head.

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

Couples should spend more time in Blue Ridge than Nags Head. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Blue Ridge that are great for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Blue Ridge than Nags Head 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 Blue Ridge.


  • How many days in Blue Ridge or Nags Head? Ideal Length of Stay
    Blue Ridge 2-5 
    Nags Head 4-7

One day in Blue Ridge or Nags Head?

Even though Blue Ridge is a small town, it has plenty of activities to choose from. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. 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.

With food and nightlife around the fun-filled of Nags Head, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Blue Ridge or Nags Head?

Blue Ridge is a small town where visitors enjoy the shopping and nightlife. Hikers are also drawn to this area. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this town has to offer. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from.

With nightlife and food around the destination of Nags Head, there's plenty to do. It offers something for everyone. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything.


Five days in Blue Ridge or Nags Head?

Blue Ridge is a small town with plenty to do. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this town makes for a great vacation. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this town has to offer.

Nags Head, a popular , is full of activities for travelers. This is a popular place to visit for five days. In five days, you should have a good grasp of this . Your budget might influence how long you stay.

A week in Blue Ridge or Nags Head?

Blue Ridge is a popular choice for travelers. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. 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.

Nags Head is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have one week, this makes for a great vacation. One week should give you a good understanding of everything this has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 2-Week Tours in United States of America, The Best 3-Week Tours in United States of America, The Best Bicycle Tours in United States of America, and Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Nags Head or Blue Ridge?

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

  • Blue Ridge Prices
    USA Prices
    Nags Head Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Blue Ridge $150
    Nags Head $179

The average daily cost (per person) in Blue Ridge is $150, while the average daily cost in Nags Head is $179. 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 Blue Ridge and Nags Head in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Blue Ridge $67
    Nags Head $80
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Blue Ridge $134
    Nags Head $160
Compare Hotels in Blue Ridge and Nags Head

Looking for a hotel in Blue Ridge or Nags Head? 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 Blue Ridge


Hotels in Nags Head


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: Blue Ridge Hotel Prices and Nags Head Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Blue Ridge $34
    Nags Head $40

Is it cheaper to fly into Blue Ridge or Nags Head?

Prices for flights to both Nags Head and Blue Ridge 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
    Blue Ridge $61
    Nags Head $71

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Blue Ridge $18
    Nags Head $14

Tours and Activities in Blue Ridge

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

  • 2 Hour Culture Tour in Helen: $29
  • 2-Hour Helen Haunts and History Walk Tour: $29
  • Helen Haunts, Murder, Mystery Tour With Paranormal Investigation: $20
  • Helen’s Ghosts of Christmas Past Walking Tour: $26

Tours and Activities in Nags Head

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

  • 2-hour Outer Banks Wild Horse Tour by 4WD Truck: $65
  • Alligator River Kayak Adventure: $59
  • Cape Hatteras Kayak Adventure in Rodanthe: $59
  • Cape Hatteras National Seashore Self-Guided Audio Driving Tour: $15
  • Kitty Hawk Maritime Forest Kayak Tour: $49
  • Nags Head Kayak Tour: $55
  • OBX Ghost Tours- The Original Ghost Tour of the Outer Banks: $25
  • OBX Ghost Tours: Lighthouse Wraiths & Dune Shadows: $26
  • Outer Banks Self-Guided Driving Audio Tour: $25
  • Self-Guided Audio Driving Tour in Outer Banks: $17
  • Stand Up Paddleboard Adventure on the Outer Banks : $65
  • Wright Brothers Carolina Dunes Self-Guided Driving Audio Tour: $15

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Blue Ridge $20
    Nags Head $12

Sample the Local Flavors in Nags Head

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Nags Head:

  • Wine Tasting And Boat Ride: $109


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

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


Which is Bigger, Blue Ridge or Nags Head?

Nags Head has a larger population, and is about 3 times larger than the population of Blue Ridge. When comparing the sizes of Blue Ridge and Nags Head, 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 Blue Ridge or Nags Head?

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 Blue Ridge or Nags Head in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Blue Ridge and Nags Head. The hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Blue Ridge this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Nags Head for the family-friendly experiences.

Blue Ridge is around the same temperature as Nags Head in the summer. The daily temperature in Blue Ridge averages around 81°F (27°C) in July, and Nags Head fluctuates around 78°F (26°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Nags Head this time of the year. In Blue Ridge, it's very sunny this time of the year. Blue Ridge usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Nags Head during summer. Blue Ridge gets 265 hours of sunny skies, while Nags Head receives 274 hours of full sun in the summer.

Nags Head receives a lot of rain in the summer. Blue Ridge gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In July, Blue Ridge usually receives around the same amount of rain as Nags Head. Blue Ridge gets 5.2 inches (131 mm) of rain, while Nags Head receives 5.4 inches (137 mm) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Blue Ridge 81°F (27°C) 
    Nags Head 78°F (26°C)

Should I visit Blue Ridge or Nags Head in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Blue Ridge as well as Nags Head. Many travelers come to Blue Ridge for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Blue Ridge is around the same temperature as Nags Head. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Blue Ridge in October average around 63°F (17°C), and Nags Head averages at about 62°F (16°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Nags Head. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Blue Ridge this time of the year. In the autumn, Blue Ridge often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Nags Head. Blue Ridge gets 211 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Nags Head receives 205 hours of full sun.

Blue Ridge usually gets less rain in October than Nags Head. Blue Ridge gets 3 inches (75 mm) of rain, while Nags Head receives 3.2 inches (82 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Blue Ridge 63°F (17°C) 
    Nags Head 62°F (16°C)

Should I visit Blue Ridge or Nags Head in the Winter?

Both Nags Head and Blue Ridge are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Blue Ridge in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Nags Head for the cuisine during these months.

Nags Head can be very cold during winter. Blue Ridge can get quite cold in the winter. In January, Blue Ridge is generally around the same temperature as Nags Head. Daily temperatures in Blue Ridge average around 40°F (5°C), and Nags Head fluctuates around 41°F (5°C).

Blue Ridge usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Nags Head during winter. Blue Ridge gets 145 hours of sunny skies, while Nags Head receives 147 hours of full sun in the winter.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Nags Head. It's quite rainy in Blue Ridge. In January, Blue Ridge usually receives more rain than Nags Head. Blue Ridge gets 5.4 inches (137 mm) of rain, while Nags Head receives 4.1 inches (105 mm) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Blue Ridge 40°F (5°C) 
    Nags Head 41°F (5°C)

Should I visit Blue Ridge or Nags Head in the Spring?

Both Nags Head and Blue Ridge during the spring are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Blue Ridge for the small town charm and the natural beauty during these months.

Blue Ridge is a little warmer than Nags Head in the spring. The daily temperature in Blue Ridge averages around 62°F (17°C) in April, and Nags Head fluctuates around 59°F (15°C).

In Nags Head, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Blue Ridge. In the spring, Blue Ridge often gets less sunshine than Nags Head. Blue Ridge gets 243 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Nags Head receives 262 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Blue Ridge. Blue Ridge usually gets more rain in April than Nags Head. Blue Ridge gets 4.4 inches (112 mm) of rain, while Nags Head receives 3 inches (75 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Blue Ridge 62°F (17°C) 
    Nags Head 59°F (15°C)

Typical Weather for Nags Head and Blue Ridge

Blue Ridge Nags Head
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 40°F (5°C) 5.4 inches (137 mm) 41°F (5°C) 4.1 inches (105 mm)
Feb 44°F (7°C) 5.2 inches (132 mm) 42°F (6°C) 3.6 inches (92 mm)
Mar 53°F (12°C) 5.6 inches (143 mm) 50°F (10°C) 3.9 inches (98 mm)
Apr 62°F (17°C) 4.4 inches (112 mm) 59°F (15°C) 3 inches (75 mm)
May 70°F (21°C) 3.4 inches (87 mm) 67°F (19°C) 4.6 inches (117 mm)
Jun 78°F (25°C) 3.7 inches (93 mm) 74°F (23°C) 4.1 inches (105 mm)
Jul 81°F (27°C) 5.2 inches (131 mm) 78°F (26°C) 5.4 inches (137 mm)
Aug 80°F (27°C) 3.2 inches (82 mm) 78°F (25°C) 5 inches (127 mm)
Sep 74°F (24°C) 3.7 inches (94 mm) 72°F (22°C) 4.7 inches (119 mm)
Oct 63°F (17°C) 3 inches (75 mm) 62°F (16°C) 3.2 inches (82 mm)
Nov 53°F (12°C) 3.9 inches (100 mm) 53°F (12°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm)
Dec 44°F (7°C) 5.2 inches (133 mm) 45°F (7°C) 3.4 inches (85 mm)