A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Boone vs. Phoenix for Nightlife, Hiking, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Boone or Phoenix?

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

Which city is more affordable and which is best for your travel style? If you're trying to figure out where to go next, comparing the travel costs between Boone and Phoenix can help you decide which place is right for you.

Boone

Boone is a picturesque, charming, and relaxing town. With plenty of activities and sights, this is a small town worth visiting. With stunning beauty, Boone attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the museums, skiing, and nightlife. See Boone travel costs.

Phoenix

Phoenix is a laid back, sprawling, and desert city. It's also popular because of the shopping, museums, and nightlife. See Phoenix travel costs.

Boone and Phoenix: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular for skiing
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good for hiking
  • Known for its beauty
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Very walkable
  • Small town charm
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to the Blue Ridge Parkway
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with backpackers
  • Less walkable


Is there more to do in Boone or Phoenix?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Boone. Although Boone and Phoenix are popular destinations, Boone has more sights and attractions for tourists. Boone is more touristy than Phoenix and is known for its proximity to great hiking, skiing, and small town charm. It is also well known for the Blue Ridge Parkway. Phoenix is famous for its desert landscapes, high number of golf courses, and year round warm weather.

How is Boone different from Phoenix?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Boone or Phoenix Better for Skiing?

Boone
Phoenix

Boone is a great town for skiing. However, Phoenix is not a skiing destination.

Boone draws a large crowd in the winter for its impressive snow skiing opportunities. It's a very popular ski destination in North Carolina. There are family-friendly slopes as well as more challenging options. Head to the popular Appalachian Ski Mountain, nearby Beech Mountain, or Sugar Mountain for some of the area's best skiing.

Phoenix is not a skiing destination.


Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Boone or Phoenix?

Boone
Phoenix

You'll find a number of nice museums and attractions in both Phoenix and Boone.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Boone. Most people spend the majority of their time exploring the natural beauty, but there are also several small local museums such as the Banner House Museum.

Phoenix is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. You'll find art, science, and cultural museums around town. Favorites include the Heard Museum, the Phoenix Art Museum, S'edav Va'aki Museum, and the Arizona Science Museum.

Is the Food Better in Boone or Phoenix? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Boone
Phoenix

Picking the best cuisine and restaurants between Boone and Phoenix can be difficult as they are each nice in their own way.

Boone is becoming an appealing option for foodies. You'll find farm to table restaurants, local cafes, and all of the standard chain restaurants nearby. Check for a High Country Grown certification if you want to prioritize locally sourced ingredients.

Phoenix offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. There are many mom-and-pop shops around town that serve everything from casual meals to quality steaks. There's also a huge selection of Mexican restaurants, as well as other international options such as sushi, dim sum, and Italian.

Is Boone or Phoenix Better for Nightlife?

Boone
Phoenix

Boone is a great town for its evening party scene. Also, Phoenix is not as popular, but is still a nice city for nightlife.

The nightlife in Boone has something for everybody. It's a small town, but there are local breweries and a great nightlife scene that is, in large part, influenced by the large student population.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Phoenix. The best nightlife scene is found in downtown and central Phoenix. There are bars, restaurants, and venues where you can catch a show. North Phoenix also has grown into a popular evening spot with cocktail bars and pubs.


Is Boone or Phoenix Better for Hiking?

Boone
Phoenix

Boone is a great town for hiking. Also, Phoenix is not as popular, but is still a nice city for the nearby hiking options.

Many visitors go to Boone for the hiking trails. The area is filled with wonderful hikes, particularly around Grandfather Mountain and along the Blue Ridge Parkway. The famed Appalachian Trail passes through the area as well. Many hikes take you through beautiful forests, passed dramatic waterfalls, and to breathtaking viewpoints.

Phoenix offers some nice hiking trails. You don't have to head far out of town for impressive hiking opportunities. You'll find trails that range from easy to challenging, and many pass through other-worldly landscapes. You'll find popular trails in Usery Mountain Regional Park, Papago Park, White Tank Mountain Regional Park, South Mountain Park and many others.

Is the Shopping Better in Boone or Phoenix?

Boone
Phoenix

Boone is a great town for its shopping areas. Also, Phoenix is not as popular, but is still a nice city for shopping.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in Boone. Wander along King Street for some of the town's best shopping. There are independent vendors and antique shops that are fun to pop into. The town is also known for its farmer's markets.

Phoenix is a great destination for shopping. There are plenty of shopping centers, outlets, and malls where you'll find the standard chain stores. You'll also find farmer's markets around town.

Is Boone or Phoenix More Beautiful?

Boone
Phoenix

Boone is a great town for its scenery and beauty. However, Phoenix is not a destination known for its beauty.

With stunning beauty, Boone attracts visitors from all around. The surrounding area is filled with great natural beauty and wonderful hikes.

Phoenix is not a destination known for its beauty.


Is Boone or Phoenix Better for Families?

Boone
Phoenix

Boone is a great town for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Phoenix is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its family-friendly activities.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Boone. Near town you'll find kid-friendly hikes, such as Linville Falls. There are also several places where kids can go ziplining or rock climbing. Parks and outdoor activities are abundant and the whole family will enjoy the setting.

Phoenix is a family-friendly place to visit. Kids will love the Phoenix Zoo, the Arizona Science Center, the SEA LIFE Arizona Aquarium, and the Bearizona Wildlife Park. There's also a number of parks and gardens as well as a children's museum and several other interactive museums for kids.

Is Boone or Phoenix Better for Couples?

Boone
Phoenix

Boone is a great town for couples. Also, Phoenix is not as popular, but is still a nice city for romance.

Boone is a great town if you're traveling as a couple. The charming town has a romantic setting with local restaurants, beautiful hikes, and plenty of shopping. Couples enjoy staying at bed and breakfasts and enjoying the quaint atmosphere.

Phoenix is a nice destination for couples. There are many parks and gardens in town as well as beautiful hikes and outdoor activities that couples will enjoy. In the evening, there's theater, shows, and many romantic restaurants.

Is Boone or Phoenix Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Boone
Phoenix

Boone is a town with good options for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Phoenix is not known for backpackers.

Boone is a good town to visit for backpackers. While there aren't many hostels in the area, there are plenty of campgrounds. The nearby Appalachian State University also ensures that there are plenty of fun activities for young visitors.

Phoenix is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. There is a hostel or two around town for budget travelers.


Is Boone or Phoenix Better for Students?

Boone
Phoenix

Boone is an unbeatable place for its student-friendly activities. However, Phoenix is not popular with students.

Boone is a very popular town for students. This mountain town offers a great setting for students who enjoy hiking and skiing. Appalachian State University is a fun college with plenty of activities going on.

Phoenix is not popular with students.

Is Boone or Phoenix Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Boone
Phoenix

Boone and Phoenix both offer reasonable public transit to get you around.

Public transit is mostly limited in Boone. You really need a car to make the most of your time.

Public transit is generally limited in Phoenix. There's a bus and light rail system, but you really need your own vehicle to get around.

Is Boone or Phoenix a more walkable city?

Boone
Phoenix

Boone is a great town for its ease of walking around. However, Phoenix is not known for its walkability.

Boone is a very walkable destination. Head to King Street for the best shopping and the most pedestrian-friendly part of town.

Phoenix is generally not very walkable. It's a sprawling city and the only real area that's walkable is the downtown.


For even more information, also check out Is Boone Worth Visiting? and Is Phoenix Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Phoenix or Boone?

How long in Boone or Phoenix?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Boone and Phoenix. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Boone than in Phoenix. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Boone, and 1-3 days is enough time in Phoenix.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Boone than Phoenix 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 Boone.


  • How many days in Boone or Phoenix? Ideal Length of Stay
    Boone 2-4 
    Phoenix 1-3

One day in Boone or Phoenix?

Boone is a small town with plenty to do. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. This town offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

In Phoenix, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this desert destination offers. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Because of this, one day is usually enough time for a trip here.

A weekend in Boone or Phoenix?

Boone might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Boone has to offer.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Phoenix. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. This would be the perfect place to spend a weekend, as it has just the right amount of activities. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Five days in Boone or Phoenix?

Boone is a great place to explore. Hikers are also drawn to this area. 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.

Phoenix is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the destination of Phoenix. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.


A week in Boone or Phoenix?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Boone. Since Boone is a small town, it's easily explored when your time is limited. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

You'll find food and shopping around the desert destination of Phoenix. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Sightseeing Tours in United States of America, The Best Cruise Tours and Packages in United States of America, The Best Cultural Tours in United States of America, and The Best Photography Tours in United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Phoenix or Boone?

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

  • Boone Prices
    USA Prices
    Phoenix Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Boone $211
    Phoenix $276

The average daily cost (per person) in Boone is $211, while the average daily cost in Phoenix is $276. 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 Boone and Phoenix in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Boone $91
    Phoenix $144
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Boone $182
    Phoenix $288
Compare Hotels in Boone and Phoenix

Looking for a hotel in Boone or Phoenix? 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 Boone


Hotels in Phoenix


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: Boone Hotel Prices and Phoenix Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Boone $33
    Phoenix $39

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Phoenix

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

  • Private Roundtrip Transfer From Phoenix Harbor Airport to Phoenix: $299
  • Sky Harbor Airport Private Transfer: $195
  • One Way SUV Transfer from Phoenix Int'l Airport to Phoenix Metro: $180
  • Departure Private Transfer: Phoenix to Sky Harbor Airport PHX in Luxury Van: $153
  • Private Transfer: Phoenix Airport PHX to Scottsdale by Luxury SUV: $151
  • Arrival Transfer: Sky Harbor Airport PHX to Phoenix by Luxury SUV: $130
  • Private Transfer: Sky Harbor Airport PHX to Phoenix by Luxury SUV: $129
  • Private Transfer: Phoenix Airport PHX to Scottsdale by Sedan Car: $125
  • Private Transfer Phoenix Airport PHX to Phoenix Downtown / Hotels: $110
  • Departure Private Transfer: Phoenix to Sky Harbor Airport PHX in Business Car: $107
  • Private Transfer from Phoenix to Sky Harbor Airport PHX in Business Car: $107
  • Arrival Private Transfer Phoenix Airport PHX to Phoenix City : $106

Is it cheaper to fly into Boone or Phoenix?

Prices for flights to both Phoenix and Boone 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
    Boone $91
    Phoenix $90
Typical Food Prices in Boone

Here are some examples of typical meal expenses from previous travelers to Boone:


  • Restaurant Lunch for 2
    $20

Typical Food Prices in Phoenix

Here are some examples of typical meal expenses from previous travelers to Phoenix:


  • Nice Lunch (for 2)
    $36
  • Indian Food Dinner (for 2)
    $32

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Phoenix

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

  • Sushi Making Cooking Class at a Local Wine Bar in Phoenix: $75
  • Pasta Making Cooking Class at a Local Brewery in Phoenix: $75
  • Sushi Making Cooking Class at a Local Wine Bar: $75
  • Secret Food Tours Phoenix: $92
  • Phoenix Food Tour on Trendy Roosevelt Row with 7 Food Tastings: $95
  • Old Town Scottsdale Food Tour: $95
  • Scottsdale Waterfront Food Tour: $95
  • Downtown Phoenix Food Tour: $95
  • Scottsdale Old Town Food Tour of Hidden Gems with 6 Food Tastings: $105
  • Sunset at Desert Botanical Garden: Dinner & Walking Tour : $135

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Boone $53
    Phoenix $40

Tours and Activities in Phoenix

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

  • Phoenix South Mountain Hiking Tour Experience: $64
  • 1-2 Hour Sonoran Desert Private Guided Hiking Tour: $70
  • 1.5 Hour Stretch Limo Golf Cart Tour, Ultimate Old Town Exploration: $89
  • 2 Hour Scottsdale Segway Tours - Ultimate Old Town Exploration: $69
  • 2 Hour Segway Tour - Sunsets, Segways & City Lights: $75
  • 2 Hour Sonoran Desert Private Guided Mountain Bike Tour: $115
  • 2.5 Hour FAT Tire E-Bike Tour – Scottsdale Greenbelt Adventure: $115
  • 3 Hour Guided TomCar ATV Experience in Sonoran Desert: $237
  • 3 Hour Sonoran Desert Private Guided Mountain Bike Tour: $135
  • Amazing 2-Hour Guided Hiking Adventure in Phoenix, Arizona: $125
  • Ancient Ruins Tour - Guided Arizona Desert Tour by UTV: $150
  • Apache Trail Private Half-Day Tour: $299

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Boone $26
    Phoenix $17

Sample the Local Flavors in Phoenix

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Phoenix:

  • Phoenix Bar Crawl: $15
  • Halloween Party Bike Bar Crawl in Old Town Scottsdale: $59
  • Old Town Scottsdale Halloween Party Bike Bar Crawl : $69
  • Pedal Bar Crawl Tour of Downtown Phoenix: $70
  • Pedal Bar Crawl of Old Town Scottsdale: $70
  • Make Alfredo Pasta at a Local Brewery in Phoenix: $75
  • Stretch Limo Party Cart - Custom Bar Crawls, Wine Tastings, Night Clubs & More: $189
  • Ultimate Bachelorette Party-Wine Tasting From Scottsdale/Phoenix: $200


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

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


Which is Bigger, Boone or Phoenix?

Phoenix has a larger population, and is about 100 times larger than the population of Boone. When comparing the sizes of Boone and Phoenix, 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.