A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Boone vs. Saskatoon for Nightlife, Families, Couples, and Attractions

Should you visit Boone or Saskatoon?

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 Saskatoon can help you decide which place is right for you.

Boone

Boone is a charming, relaxing, and quaint town. This is a great small town that is just waiting to be explored. The beauty of Boone is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and skiing. See Boone travel costs.

Saskatoon

Saskatoon is a authentic, cultural, and friendly city. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food. See Saskatoon travel costs.

Boone and Saskatoon: 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
  • Small town charm
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to the Blue Ridge Parkway
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with backpackers


Is there more to do in Boone or Saskatoon?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Boone. Although Boone and Saskatoon are both popular with visitors, Boone has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Boone is more touristy than Saskatoon and is popular for its proximity to great hiking, skiing, and small town charm. It is also home to the Blue Ridge Parkway. Saskatoon is popular for its agriculture and outdoor spaces.

How is Boone different from Saskatoon?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Boone or Saskatoon Better for Skiing?

Boone
Saskatoon

Boone is a well-known place for snow skiing. However, Saskatoon is not a skiing destination.

People head to Boone specifically to take advantage of the area's skiing and winter sports. 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.

Saskatoon is not a skiing destination.


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

Boone
Saskatoon

You'll find a number of good museums and attractions in both Saskatoon 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.

Saskatoon is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. There are some museums and historical sites to check out such as Fort Battleford National Historic Site, Batoche National Historic Site, and the Saskatchewan Indigenous Cultural Centre.

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

Boone
Saskatoon

Picking the best cuisine and restaurants between Boone and Saskatoon can be difficult as they are each good 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.

Saskatoon offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. There's a great food scene around town with diverse restaurants and cuisines to choose from. You can sample dim sum, Mexican, Middle Eastern, Indian, and many more.

Is Boone or Saskatoon Better for Nightlife?

Boone
Saskatoon

Boone is a well-known place for nightlife and partying. Also, Saskatoon is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its evening party scene.

Boone offers plenty to do in the evening. 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.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Saskatoon. There are enough clubs and bars around town to keep things entertaining. Most cater to a younger crowd, but the vibe is fun and full of energy.


Is Boone or Saskatoon Better for Hiking?

Boone
Saskatoon

Boone is a well-known place for the nearby hiking options. However, Saskatoon is not a hiking destination.

Boone is a popular spot for hiking. 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.

Saskatoon is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Boone or Saskatoon?

Boone
Saskatoon

Boone is a well-known place for its shopping opportunities. Also, Saskatoon is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its shopping areas.

Boone is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. 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.

Saskatoon has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. A number of brands have opened stores in the downtown area in recent years, so the shopping scene continues to grow and diversify.

Is Boone or Saskatoon More Beautiful?

Boone
Saskatoon

Boone is a well-known place for its scenery and beauty. However, Saskatoon is not a destination known for its beauty.

The beauty of Boone is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. The surrounding area is filled with great natural beauty and wonderful hikes.

Saskatoon is not a destination known for its beauty.


Is Boone or Saskatoon Better for Families?

Boone
Saskatoon

Boone is a well-known place for its family-friendly activities. Also, Saskatoon is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

Boone is a very kid-friendly town. 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.

Saskatoon is a family-friendly town. It's filled with indoor and outdoor play areas. Make sure you check out the Nutrien Wonderhub as well as the countless playgrounds around town.

Is Boone or Saskatoon Better for Couples?

Boone
Saskatoon

Boone is a well-known place for its romantic activities. Also, Saskatoon is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for couples.

Boone is a very popular place to visit for couples. 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.

Saskatoon is a good town for couples to visit. There are plenty of evening activities like dining out at a nice restaurant or taking in a show at the Persephone Theatre.

Is Boone or Saskatoon Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Boone
Saskatoon

Boone is a good destination for backpackers. However, Saskatoon is not a good city for backpackers and budget travelers.

Plenty of backpackers visit Boone. 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.

Saskatoon is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. Most backpackers skip this town in favor of more popular destinations.


Is Boone or Saskatoon Better for Students?

Boone
Saskatoon

Boone is an unbeatable place for students. However, Saskatoon is not popular with students.

Boone is a very popular place to visit 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.

Saskatoon is not popular with students.

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

Boone
Saskatoon

Boone and Saskatoon both offer decent 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 Saskatoon. There is a bus system around town.

Is Boone or Saskatoon a more walkable city?

Boone
Saskatoon

Boone is a well-known place for its high level of walkability. Also, Saskatoon is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its ease of walking around.

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

Saskatoon is a somewhat walkable town. The downtown is walkable and easy to explore on foot.


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

Should I spend more time in Saskatoon or Boone?

How long in Boone or Saskatoon?

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

Families should spend more time in Boone than Saskatoon. 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 Saskatoon. 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 Saskatoon 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 Saskatoon? Ideal Length of Stay
    Boone 2-4 
    Saskatoon 1-3

One day in Boone or Saskatoon?

Even though Boone 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.

In Saskatoon, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this authentic 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 Saskatoon?

Boone is a small town where visitors enjoy the nightlife and food. 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Saskatoon. 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 Saskatoon?

Boone is a small town, so it's a great destination if you're short on time. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

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


A week in Boone or Saskatoon?

Boone 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.

You'll find food and shopping around the cultural destination of Saskatoon. 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 Family-Friendly Tours to Canada, and The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in Canada.


Which place is cheaper, Saskatoon 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
    Saskatoon Prices
    Canada Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Boone $211
    Saskatoon $149

The average daily cost (per person) in Boone is $211, while the average daily cost in Saskatoon is $149. 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 Saskatoon in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Boone $91
    Saskatoon $54
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Boone $182
    Saskatoon $108
Compare Hotels in Boone and Saskatoon

Looking for a hotel in Boone or Saskatoon? 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 Saskatoon


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 Saskatoon Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Boone $33
    Saskatoon $32

Is it cheaper to fly into Boone or Saskatoon?

Prices for flights to both Saskatoon 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
    Saskatoon $54
Typical Food Prices in Boone

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


  • Restaurant Lunch for 2
    $20

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Boone $53
    Saskatoon $17

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Boone $26
    Saskatoon $9.60


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

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


Which is Bigger, Boone or Saskatoon?

Saskatoon has a larger population, and is about 20 times larger than the population of Boone. When comparing the sizes of Boone and Saskatoon, 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.