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

Should you visit Boone or Seattle?

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 Seattle 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. With stunning beauty, Boone attracts visitors from all around. Other popular activities here include food, hiking, and shopping. See Boone travel costs.

Seattle

Seattle is a outdoorsy, laid-back, and bustling city. As it's a big city, visitors will find plenty to do, too. Seattle offers plenty of beauty for visitors. It's also popular because of the theater, nightlife, and live music. See Seattle travel costs.

Boone and Seattle: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular for skiing
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Small town charm
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to the Blue Ridge Parkway
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Numerous theater shows
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Big city activities
  • Home to the Space Needle


Is there more to do in Boone or Seattle?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Seattle. Although Boone and Seattle are popular destinations, Seattle has more sights and attractions for tourists. Seattle is very popular for its museums and attractions, theatre productions, food, music, beaches, and big city activities, while Boone attracts visitors for its skiing, shopping, small town charm, and impressive beauty. Boone is famous for its proximity to great hiking, skiing, and small town charm. Seattle is famous for its beautiful waterfront setting, diverse culinary scene, thriving art and cultural venues, and being the home of many international tech companies. It is also well known for The Space Needle.

How is Boone different from Seattle?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Boone or Seattle Better for Skiing?

Boone
Seattle

Boone is notable for snow skiing. However, Seattle is not a skiing destination.

Boone is a well-known ski destination which attracts visitors from far and wide. 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.

Seattle is not a skiing destination.


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

Boone
Seattle

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

Many visitors head to Seattle specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. The city's most iconic landmark is the Space Needle. There's also a zoo, aquarium, and a handful of nice museums. Several favorites include the Chihuly Garden and Glass, the Museum of History & Industry, and the Seattle Art Museum.

Boone is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. 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.

Is Boone or Seattle Better for Theater?

Boone
Seattle

Seattle is very good for its shows and theatre. However, Boone is not a theatre destination.

If you have some extra time in Seattle, take in a show. There are a handful of theaters where you can enjoy traveling Broadway shows or smaller productions.

Boone is not a theatre destination.

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

Boone
Seattle

Seattle is a great city for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Boone is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Seattle has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. The city has many diverse dining options that make it a popular foodie destination. The seafood is world-class with many restaurants offering fresh caught salmon and oysters. There are also many great Asian restaurants with Pho, sushi, and dim sum all being popular around town. Seattle is also famous as the birthplace of Starbucks coffee, and both chain and independent coffee shops are common. Finally, make sure you check out the donuts at Pike's Place Market.

Boone offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. 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.


Is Boone or Seattle Better for Nightlife?

Boone
Seattle

If the nightlife is your priority, you'll find excellent options in both Boone and Seattle.

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.

Seattle offers plenty to do in the evening. The city is known for its breweries and eclectic nightlife scene. There is a thriving theater scene as well as many bars and trendy restaurants. The best neighborhoods for nightlife include Capitol Hill, Belltown, and Downtown.

Is Boone or Seattle Better for Music?

Boone
Seattle

Seattle is a great city for its music scene. However, Boone is not a live music destination.

Seattle has a thriving music scene. The city has developed its own music culture around several genres including alternative rock and grunge.

Boone is not a live music destination.

Is Boone or Seattle Better for Beaches?

Boone
Seattle

Seattle is very good for the beach. However, Boone is not a beach destination.

Many people head to Seattle to enjoy the beach. The city is surrounded by water so there are a number of rocky and sandy beaches nearby. Some beaches are more popular with locals while others attract a large amount of tourists. Alki Beach Park, Discovery Park, and Golden Gardens Park are among the best.

Boone is not a beach destination.


Is Boone or Seattle Better for Hiking?

Boone
Seattle

You'll find excellent hiking in both Boone and Seattle.

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.

Seattle is a popular spot for hiking. It's famously an outdoorsy city and the hiking will not disappoint. Within a half hour drive of town you'll find beautiful forests and stunning natural beauty. Head into the Cascades, to the coastal rainforests, or around Mount Rainier for all kinds of diverse landscapes. Seattle is well situated for you to experience hiking through the diverse Pacific Northwest landscapes.

Is the Shopping Better in Boone or Seattle?

Boone
Seattle

Boone is notable for its shopping areas. Also, Seattle is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for shopping.

Browsing through shops is a popular activity 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.

Plenty of visitors enjoy shopping while in Seattle. Shopping in town has an eclectic mix of high end brands, local vendors, and vintage shops. There are farmers markets as well as the famous Pike Place Market, but also major malls with all of the standard department stores.

Is Boone or Seattle More Beautiful?

Boone
Seattle

Boone is notable for its scenery and beauty. Also, Seattle is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its scenery and beauty.

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

Seattle is a gorgeous place to visit. Set against the backdrop of Mt. Rainier, the city has both natural and architectural beauty. It's also beautifully situated on the water with lots of parks and vegetation throughout.


Is Boone or Seattle Better for Families?

Boone
Seattle

Boone is notable for its family-friendly activities. Also, Seattle is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

Boone is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. 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.

Seattle is a family-friendly town. This is an outdoor city with plenty of places where kids can run around and experience nature. There are several good museums as well as outdoor activities, parks, and a zoo. Make sure you check out the Burke Museum of Natural History and Culture, Volunteer Park, and Artists at Play Playground.

Is Boone or Seattle Better for Couples?

Boone
Seattle

Boone is notable for couples. Also, Seattle is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for romance.

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.

Seattle is a nice destination for couples. The city has a laid back vibe, a nice downtown area, and plenty of outdoor activities. There are a diversity of restaurants to enjoy and a great nightlife scene that makes for a good couple's getaway.

Is Boone or Seattle Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Boone
Seattle

For backpackers, both Boone and Seattle are nice places to visit.

Boone is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. 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.

It's common for backpackers to visit Seattle. Although it's not the most popular city for backpackers in America, the city's chill vibe, fun breweries, and lively setting make it a great spot for young backpackers.


Is Boone or Seattle Better for Students?

Boone
Seattle

Boone is renowned for students. Also, Seattle is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its student-friendly activities.

Boone is a great destination 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.

Students come from all over to stay in Seattle. It is a major IT center with a large university, so international students will have plenty of opportunities here. It's also a vibrant city with many outdoor recreational opportunities and a fun nightlife scene.

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

Boone
Seattle

Seattle is very good for times when you don't have a car. However, Boone is not known for its public transit.

While Seattle offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There is a light rail system, a monorail, a street car, and buses.

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

Is Boone or Seattle a more walkable city?

Boone
Seattle

Boone and Seattle are excellent when it comes to walkability.

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

Seattle is very walkable. Many neighborhoods are very walkable, particularly in the downtown and major tourist areas.


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

Should I spend more time in Seattle or Boone?

How long in Boone or Seattle?

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

Families should spend more time in Boone than Seattle. 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.

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


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

One day in Boone or Seattle?

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.

Each neighborhood in Seattle has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

A weekend in Boone or Seattle?

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 Seattle. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. 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 Seattle?

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.

Seattle is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the big city destination of Seattle. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.


A week in Boone or Seattle?

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 shopping and museums around the outdoorsy big city of Seattle. Hikers are also drawn to this area. 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, Seattle 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
    Seattle Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Boone $211
    Seattle $242

The average daily cost (per person) in Boone is $211, while the average daily cost in Seattle is $242. 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 Seattle in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Boone $91
    Seattle $120
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Boone $182
    Seattle $240
Compare Hotels in Boone and Seattle

Looking for a hotel in Boone or Seattle? 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 Seattle


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 Seattle Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Boone $33
    Seattle $30

Typical Local Transportation Prices in Seattle

Here are some examples of typical transportation prices from actual travelers in Seattle:


  • Lightrail from Airport (for 2)
    $5.50
  • Roundtrip Ferry to Bainbridge Island (for 2)
    $15

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Seattle

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Seattle:

  • From Seattle Airport - Transfer to Hotel & Homes: $265
  • From Seattle Hotels - Hotel Transfer to Airport: $265
  • From Seattle Hotels - Hotel Transfer to Airport: $175
  • Smith Cove Terminal to Seattle hotels - Arrival Private Transfer : $172
  • Arrival Private Transfer: Seattle Airport SEA to Seattle in Luxury Car: $160
  • Departure Private Transfer: Seattle to Seattle Airport SEA in Luxury Car: $160
  • Seattle Roundtrip Chauffeur Driven Airport Transfer: $150
  • From Snoqualmie Falls and Wineries Tour w/ Transfer: $145
  • Try find your better than us ! Airport transfer service in Seattle HTL-APT (SEA): $143
  • SEA Airport Private Transfer to Seattle City|Hotels: $140
  • Seattle Airport Transfer Arrival & Departures (outer city): $135
  • Smith Cove Terminal to Seattle Tacoma Airport (SEA) - Departure Private Transfer: $132

Is it cheaper to fly into Boone or Seattle?

Prices for flights to both Seattle 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
    Seattle $88
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 Seattle

Some typical examples of dining costs in Seattle are as follows:


  • Expresso & cookie at Pier 70
    $7.00
  • Cashews at Pike Place Market
    $6.00
  • 6 Mini Donuts at Pike Place Market
    $3.25
  • Chinese Lunch in International District (for 2)
    $21
  • Breakfast at Lowel's in Pike Place Market (for 2)
    $32
  • Breakfast at French Cafe (for 2)
    $37

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Seattle

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Seattle.

  • Bite-Sized Seattle History & Food Tour: $26
  • Meet Me at the Market Food Tour: $44
  • Seattle Holiday Donut Adventure & Walking Food Tour: $65
  • Pike Place Market Chef-Guided Food Tour: $71
  • Chef Guided Food Tour of Pike Place Market: $72
  • Secret Food Tours: Seattle Pike Place Market: $73
  • Japanese Ramen Cooking Class With Local Chef: $75
  • Seattle Pike Market Food Tasting Tour with Secret Food Tours: $75
  • Plant Based in Pike Place Food Tour (GF available): $79
  • Chef Food Tour of Seattle Space Needle and Seattle Center: $85
  • Festive Flavors of Pike Place Market Holiday Food Tour: $110
  • Pike Place Market Gourmet Food Tour: $110

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Boone $53
    Seattle $16

Tours and Activities in Seattle

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Seattle are as follows:

  • 2 Hour Guided Boat Tour in Gig Harbor and Narrows Bridges: $55
  • Leavenworth Exclusive Tour from Seattle: $195
  • 2 Hour Sound Tour: $118
  • Bainbridge Island Discovery Tour: $137
  • Bainbridge Island Serenity Forest Hike & Cultural Landmarks Tour: $235
  • Bald Eagles Nesting Area Tour at Skagit River: $135
  • Beneath The Streets Underground History Tour: $29
  • Best of Seattle Small Group Walking Tour W/ Space Needle: $244
  • Boeing Factory Tour with Guided Transport from Seattle: $125
  • Brunch Cruise with Buffet in Washington: $98
  • Chef Guided Happy Hour Tour - Cocktails, Bubbles and Bites: $140
  • Chihuly Garden and Glass in Seattle Ticket: $37

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Boone $26
    Seattle $16

Sample the Local Flavors in Seattle

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

  • Seattle Bar Crawl Belltown Bar Blitz: $15
  • Seattle Terrors Spirits & Spirits Haunted Pub Crawl: $30
  • Where the Hops Grow! Yakima Brewery Tour : $45
  • Diverse Wine Tasting Experience Near Pike Place Market: $75
  • Diverse Wine Tasting Experience with Bites: $75
  • Woodinville Guided Wine Tour with Optional Tastings: $109
  • Bainbridge Island Discovery and Wine Tour: $159
  • All-inclusive Wine Tasting and Lunch Experience: $249
  • From Snoqualmie Falls & Woodinville Wine Tasting: $344


When comparing the travel costs between Boone and Seattle, we can see that Seattle is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Since both cities are in North America, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

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


Which is Bigger, Boone or Seattle?

Seattle has a larger population, and is about 40 times larger than the population of Boone. When comparing the sizes of Boone and Seattle, 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.