A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Chimney Rock and Lake Lure vs. Atlantic City for Nightlife, Families, Couples, and Backpackers

Should you visit Chimney Rock and Lake Lure or Atlantic City?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Chimney Rock and Lake Lure and Atlantic City can help. It includes a travel cost comparison in addition to other factors. For many travelers, the cost of a destination is a primary consideration when choosing where to go.

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is a beautiful, peaceful, and active recreation area. Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is a gorgeous place to visit. It's also known for hiking. See Chimney Rock and Lake Lure travel costs.

Atlantic City

Atlantic City is a party-oriented, colorful, and glitzy city. Other popular activities here include beaches, shopping, and nightlife. See Atlantic City travel costs.

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure and Atlantic City: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Good for hiking
  • Known for its beauty
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Public transit not as usable
  • Less walkable
Pros
  • Active nightlife
  • Nice resorts
  • Popular beach
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good public transit
  • Very walkable
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • Less family-friendly


Is there more to do in Chimney Rock and Lake Lure or Atlantic City?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Atlantic City than Chimney Rock and Lake Lure, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Atlantic City is better known for its food, nightlife, resorts, beaches, and shopping, while Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is more popular for its hiking and impressive beauty. Atlantic City is more touristy than Chimney Rock and Lake Lure and is known for its casinos, gambling culture, nightlife scene, and wild personality Also, Atlantic City is famous for Steel Pier and the Boardwalk. Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is well known for its beautiful views and fun outdoor activities.

How is Chimney Rock and Lake Lure different from Atlantic City?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Atlantic City and Chimney Rock and Lake Lure. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Chimney Rock and Lake Lure or Atlantic City?

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure
Atlantic City

For an educational experience, head to a museum or a notable sight in either Chimney Rock and Lake Lure or Atlantic City.

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure offers a handful of options for museums and historical sights. There's a museum in Chimney Rock State Park, but most visitors spend their time taking advantage of the outdoor activities.

While most people don't head to Atlantic City specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. While most people don't spend their time in museums, there is the Marine Mammal Stranding Center, the African American Heritage Museum, and the Noyes Museum Galleries.


Is the Food Better in Chimney Rock and Lake Lure or Atlantic City? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure
Atlantic City

Atlantic City is a city with good options for its restaurant scene. However, Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is a recreation area with minimal options for its local flavors and cuisine.

There are many up and coming restaurants in the Atlantic City area. There are budget buffets around town as well as seafood restaurants and even some fine dining. Salt water taffy is a local specialty that you should pick up while you're in the area.

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure offers some easy restaurants to choose from. Within Chimney Rock Park there's a deli and a cafe. Nearby you'll also find casual eateries with pizza or classic American dishes.

Is Chimney Rock and Lake Lure or Atlantic City Better for Nightlife?

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure
Atlantic City

Atlantic City is an amazing city to visit for its evening party scene. However, Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is a recreation area with minimal options for nightlife.

Atlantic City has a colorful and one-of-a-kind nightlife scene. This is a city that is all about its nightlife scene. Many visitors come here just to party, and you'll find clubs with DJs or bands playing from sunset to sunrise. There are glitzy lounges and dive bars with everything in between. As a gambling town, there are casinos and all-night activities that keep the energy going round the clock.

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure doesn't have the most active nightlife scene. Most people head into nearby Asheville for the best nightlife.

Is Chimney Rock and Lake Lure or Atlantic City Better for Resorts?

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure
Atlantic City

Atlantic City is a great destination for its resorts. However, Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is not a resort destination.

In Atlantic City, you'll find some of the region's top resorts. The beach and boardwalk are lined with casinos and resorts. There are many recognizable names such as Harrah's, Bally's, Caesars, Hard Rock, and the Tropicana.

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is not a resort destination.


Is Chimney Rock and Lake Lure or Atlantic City Better for Beaches?

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure
Atlantic City

Atlantic City is a city with good options for the beach. However, Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is not a beach destination.

Plenty of visitors enjoy relaxing on the beach in Atlantic City. There's a Boardwalk that runs along the beach and is lined with piers and hotels. The Downtown Beach is the most accessible, and where most tourists hang out. If you're willing to travel a little further, there are some nice beaches nearby such as Margate Beach and Brigantine Beach.

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is not a beach destination.

Is Chimney Rock and Lake Lure or Atlantic City Better for Hiking?

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure
Atlantic City

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is well known for its hiking experiences. However, Atlantic City is not a hiking destination.

You'll find a nice variety of hiking trails around Chimney Rock and Lake Lure. One of the most popular trails in Chimney Rock State Park is The Exclamation Point Trail , which leads to many viewpoints. During the summer and fall seasons the trail can get very crowded. The obvious highlight in the park is Chimney Rock, which is a rock outcropping that offers spectacular views.

Atlantic City is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Chimney Rock and Lake Lure or Atlantic City?

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure
Atlantic City

Atlantic City is a city with good options for its shopping areas. However, Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is a recreation area with minimal options for shopping.

Many visitors go to Atlantic City to go shopping. You'll find many souvenir shops along the boardwalk. There's also a Tangier Outlet Mall in the area. Some of the hotels such as the Tropicana have their own shopping areas as well.

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is a good destination for shopping. You'll find the standard shopping centers in the area, but for the best shopping, head over to Asheville.


Is Chimney Rock and Lake Lure or Atlantic City More Beautiful?

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure
Atlantic City

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is a good destination for its scenery and beauty. However, Atlantic City is not a destination known for its beauty.

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is a gorgeous place to visit. From the top of Chimney Rock there's an impressive view point. The area is also filled with natural beauty and peaceful settings.

Atlantic City is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Chimney Rock and Lake Lure or Atlantic City Better for Families?

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure
Atlantic City

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is well known for its family-friendly activities. However, Atlantic City is not particularly known for its kid-friendly activities.

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is a very family-friendly place to visit. There are plenty of outdoor activities in the area. Head to sliding rock for a fun afternoon. There's also tubing, kayaking, and river rafting nearby. Horseback riding is a fun way to explore a trail, or simply hiking on one of the many paths in the area. You'll also find ziplining and plenty of water activities at the lake.

For families, Atlantic City is not always the best place to visit. Most families avoid this area for more family-friendly beaches, but if you find yourself in the area, you can check out Ripley's Believe It or Not or go on a dolphin cruise. Also popular is Steel Pier, which has rides for all ages.

Is Chimney Rock and Lake Lure or Atlantic City Better for Couples?

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure
Atlantic City

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is well known for romance. Also, Atlantic City is still popular, but not quite as popular for its romantic activities.

Couples visit Chimney Rock and Lake Lure frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. There are romantic hotels as well as bed and breakfasts that make for a romantic retreat. Couples who enjoy beautiful outdoor settings and fun adventures will enjoy a weekend trip to the area. There are also local restaurants and a few wineries to explore.

Atlantic City makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. It's not exactly known for its romance, but there are casinos, hotels, and a beaches that are fun to visit. You'll also find several spas and sunset cruises in the area.


Is Chimney Rock and Lake Lure or Atlantic City Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure
Atlantic City

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is well known for backpackers. Also, Atlantic City is still popular, but not quite as popular for backpackers and budget travelers.

Backpackers come from all over to visit Chimney Rock and Lake Lure. There are several great campgrounds and plenty of hiking trails that make this a nice budget or backpacker getaway.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Atlantic City. There is a hostel in the area. You'll also find a younger crowd and plenty of partying.

Is Chimney Rock and Lake Lure or Atlantic City Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure
Atlantic City

Atlantic City is a city with good options for its public transit. However, Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is a recreation area with minimal options for times when you don't have a car.

You'll find some public transit in Atlantic City, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. The Jitney are shuttle buses that runs from one end of the city to the other. They pass by most of the hotels and casinos along Pacific Avenue.

Public transit is quite limited in Chimney Rock and Lake Lure. There is limited public transit in the area.

Is Chimney Rock and Lake Lure or Atlantic City a more walkable city?

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure
Atlantic City

Atlantic City is a great destination for its ease of walking around. However, Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is a recreation area with minimal options for its walkability.

Atlantic City is a very walkable destination. Many of the hotels are walkable and located near the boardwalk.

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is not a very walkable recreation area. The trails and parks in the region are spread out and require a car to access.


For even more information, also check out Is Chimney Rock and Lake Lure Worth Visiting? and Is Atlantic City Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Atlantic City or Chimney Rock and Lake Lure?

How long in Chimney Rock and Lake Lure or Atlantic City?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Chimney Rock and Lake Lure and Atlantic City. In our opinion, Atlantic City has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Atlantic City than Chimney Rock and Lake Lure. However, 1-3 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

Couples should spend more time in Atlantic City than Chimney Rock and Lake Lure. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Atlantic City that are perfect for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Atlantic City than Chimney Rock and Lake Lure 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 Atlantic City.


  • How many days in Chimney Rock and Lake Lure or Atlantic City? Ideal Length of Stay
    Chimney Rock and Lake Lure 1-3 
    Atlantic City 1-3

One day in Chimney Rock and Lake Lure or Atlantic City?

Many travelers enjoy the when visiting the beautiful destination of Chimney Rock and Lake Lure. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. Your budget might influence how long you stay. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then one day is just the right amount of time to spend here.

In Atlantic City, many people enjoy the nightlife and food that this party-oriented destination offers. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Lots of people come for the nightlife. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. One day is usually enough time to experience most activities.

A weekend in Chimney Rock and Lake Lure or Atlantic City?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Chimney Rock and Lake Lure. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. A weekend is usually enough time to experience most activities.

In Atlantic City, many people enjoy the food and shopping that this destination offers. It's also a relaxing resort destination. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything. Many people spend a weekend here. A weekend is often enough time to do most activities.

Five days in Chimney Rock and Lake Lure or Atlantic City?

Travelers enjoy the when visiting the active destination of Chimney Rock and Lake Lure. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. This recreation area offers a variety of activities to choose from. Five days 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.

Many people enjoy the shopping and nightlife when visiting Atlantic City. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. This city offers something for everyone.


A week in Chimney Rock and Lake Lure or Atlantic City?

You'll find around the recreation area of Chimney Rock and Lake Lure. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the city of Atlantic City. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. Lots of people come for the nightlife. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Walking Tours in United States of America, The Best Northern Lights Tours in Alaska, The Best Tours Under $1000 in United States of America, and The Best Luxury Tours to United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Atlantic City or Chimney Rock and Lake Lure?

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

  • Chimney Rock and Lake Lure Prices
    USA Prices
    Atlantic City Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Chimney Rock and Lake Lure $234
    Atlantic City $190

The average daily cost (per person) in Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is $234, while the average daily cost in Atlantic City is $190. 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 Chimney Rock and Lake Lure and Atlantic City in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Chimney Rock and Lake Lure $117
    Atlantic City $73
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Chimney Rock and Lake Lure $234
    Atlantic City $146
Compare Hotels in Chimney Rock and Lake Lure and Atlantic City

Looking for a hotel in Chimney Rock and Lake Lure or Atlantic City? 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 Chimney Rock and Lake Lure


Hotels in Atlantic City


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: Atlantic City Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Chimney Rock and Lake Lure $35
    Atlantic City $40

Is it cheaper to fly into Chimney Rock and Lake Lure or Atlantic City?

Prices for flights to both Atlantic City and Chimney Rock and Lake Lure 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
    Chimney Rock and Lake Lure $91
    Atlantic City $86

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Chimney Rock and Lake Lure $34
    Atlantic City $44

Tours and Activities in Atlantic City

Here are a few actual costs in Atlantic City for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • Atlantic City Adventure Scavenger Hunt: $29
  • Aces to Ashes: Apparitions of Atlantic City Boardwalk Ghost Tour: $31
  • EARLY BIRD SPECIAL: Speed Boat & Dolphin Cruise in Ocean City, MD: $35
  • OC Bay Hopper - Sunset Cruise: $35
  • OC Bay Hopper - Assateague Island Cruise: $35
  • 1 Hour Private Escape Room Experience in Ocean City: $36
  • 1-Hour Sea Rocket Sunset & OC Harbor Cruise in Ocean City, MD: $38
  • 45-Minute Sea Rocket Speed Boat & Dolphin Cruise in Ocean City MD: $40
  • OC Bay Hopper Sunset Cruise Departs Downtown OC: $40
  • Assateague Horses, Herons and Happy Hour Cruise: $40
  • Ocean City Bay Hopper - Greene Turtle Lunch Cruise: $45
  • OC Bay Hopper - Happy Hour Cruise: $45

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Chimney Rock and Lake Lure $21
    Atlantic City $39


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

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Chimney Rock and Lake Lure Expensive? and Is Atlantic City Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Chimney Rock and Lake Lure or Atlantic City?

Atlantic City has a larger population, and is about 240 times larger than the population of Chimney Rock and Lake Lure. When comparing the sizes of Chimney Rock and Lake Lure and Atlantic City, 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.