A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Chimney Rock and Lake Lure vs. Boston for Attractions, Families, Food, and Nightlife

Should you visit Chimney Rock and Lake Lure or Boston?

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 Boston 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.

Boston

Boston is a historic, traditional, and classic city. As it's a big city, visitors will find plenty to do, too. Boston offers plenty of beauty for visitors. As this is a very quaint destination, you'll find it has a special atmosphere. Other popular activities here include food, shopping, and museums. See Boston travel costs.

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure and Boston: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • Less popular for food
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Public transit not as usable
  • Less walkable
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Numerous theater shows
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Popular beach
  • Scenic old town
  • Popular at Christmas
  • Known for Christmas markets
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Good public transit
  • Very walkable
  • Big city activities
  • Home to the Freedom Trail


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

Visitors will usually find more to do in Boston than Chimney Rock and Lake Lure, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Boston is better known for its museums and attractions, theatre productions, food, nightlife, music, beaches, historical sights, shopping, christmas markets, big city activities, and quaint atmosphere, while Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is more popular for its hiking. Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is well known for its beautiful views and fun outdoor activities. Boston is well known for its enthusiastic sports fans, influential history, beautiful parks, and world-class universities. Also, Boston is famous for The Freedom Trail.

How is Chimney Rock and Lake Lure different from Boston?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Boston 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 Boston?

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure
Boston

Boston is an amazing city to visit for its museums and landmarks. However, Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is a recreation area with minimal options for its historical sights.

You'll find many recognizable landmarks that put Boston on the map. The city itself feels like a living museum. It is famous for Faneuil Hall, the Museum of Fine Arts, the Isabelle Stewart Gardner Museum, the USS Constitution, as well as the many sites along the Freedom Trail. There are also many museums on the campuses of the world renowned universities in the city.

While most people don't head to Chimney Rock and Lake Lure specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. There's a museum in Chimney Rock State Park, but most visitors spend their time taking advantage of the outdoor activities.


Is Chimney Rock and Lake Lure or Boston Better for Theater?

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure
Boston

Boston is a great destination for its shows and theatre. However, Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is not a theatre destination.

Boston attracts a wide-range of world-class performances. The city has many historic, beautifully restored theaters where you can enjoy a show. Head to the theater district for some of the most famous venues.

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is not a theatre destination.

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

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure
Boston

Boston is a great destination for its restaurant scene. However, Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is a recreation area with minimal options for its local flavors and cuisine.

Dining out in Boston is an experience not to be missed. There are many local dishes that utilize fresh caught seafood and comfort food flavors. The cuisine also takes advantage of the city's Italian and Irish populations. Famous local foods include New England Clam Chowder, lobster rolls, and baked beans. You'll find hearty sandwiches and filling meals that warm your soul.

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 Boston Better for Nightlife?

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure
Boston

Boston is a great destination for its evening party scene. However, Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is a recreation area with minimal options for nightlife.

The people in Boston know how to have a good time. The city is known for its breweries, craft beer, and vibrant university neighborhoods. It also hosts regular outdoor movies and world class sporting events. The nightlife scene is varied, with some areas catering to the student population and other areas focused on the professional or sport-loving crowds.

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 Boston Better for Music?

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure
Boston

Boston is a city with good options for its music scene. However, Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is not a live music destination.

You'll find some good live music in Boston. Popular music venues include Lizard Lounge, Blue Hills Bank Pavilion, and The Middle East.

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is not a live music destination.

Is Chimney Rock and Lake Lure or Boston Better for Beaches?

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure
Boston

Boston is a city with a few options for the beach. However, Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is not a beach destination.

The beach in Boston is worth checking out. There are a few urban beaches in the greater Boston area that you can explore on a nice day.

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is not a beach destination.

Is Chimney Rock and Lake Lure or Boston Better for its Old Town?

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure
Boston

Boston is an amazing city to visit for its historic old town charm. However, Chimney Rock and Lake Lure does not have a historic old town.

Boston offers visitors a world-class historical old town to explore. Boston is famous for its Freedom Trail, which takes visitors around the city's rich history. The oldest parts of the city are known as Boston Proper and include the neighborhoods of Beacon Hill, Historic Downtown, the North End, and the West End.

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure does not have a historic old town.


Is Chimney Rock and Lake Lure or Boston Better for Hiking?

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure
Boston

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is notable for the nearby hiking options. However, Boston is not a hiking destination.

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is a popular spot for hiking. 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.

Boston is not a hiking destination.

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

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure
Boston

Boston 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 Boston to go shopping. Head to Back Bay for some of the best high end shops. There are luxury brands and boutique venues that sell local art or crafts.

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 Boston More Beautiful?

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure
Boston

You'll find a similar quality of notable scenery and beauty in both Chimney Rock and Lake Lure and Boston.

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure offers plenty of beauty for visitors. From the top of Chimney Rock there's an impressive view point. The area is also filled with natural beauty and peaceful settings.

Boston is a gorgeous place to visit. The history, architecture, and world renowned university campuses all give this city its unique beauty.


Is Chimney Rock and Lake Lure or Boston Better for Families?

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure
Boston

Boston is an amazing city to visit for its family-friendly activities. Also, Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

Boston is an extremely popular city to visit for families. It's filled with history, but there are also many activities for kids who need a break from all of the historical stuff. Popular activities for all ages include the Museum of Science, the New England Aquarium, and exploring the waterfront, gardens, and parks around town.

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is a very family-friendly destination. 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.

Is Chimney Rock and Lake Lure or Boston Better for Couples?

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure
Boston

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is notable for romance. Also, Boston is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its romantic activities.

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is a very popular place to visit for couples. 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.

Boston makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Couples who enjoy history will enjoy exploring the city. Take a swan boat ride in the Public Garden and wander the unique route along the Freedom Trail. There are also many sporting and entertainment options around town.

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

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure
Boston

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is notable for backpackers. Also, Boston is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit 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 Boston. Like most larger American cities, the city has a handful of hostels to choose from.


Is Chimney Rock and Lake Lure or Boston Better for Students?

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure
Boston

Boston is an amazing city to visit for students. However, Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is not popular with students.

Boston is a very popular city for students. It is a city of students, with a number of world renowned universities located here including Harvard University, Boston College, and MIT. Many neighborhoods are filled with students and there are many student-centered activities around town including festivals and an active nightlife scene.

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is not popular with students.

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

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure
Boston

Boston is an amazing city to visit 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.

Public transit in Boston is top-notch. There's the T, which is the subway, as well as a trolley, bus, and water transportation system.

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 Boston a more walkable city?

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure
Boston

Boston is an amazing city to visit for its ease of walking around. However, Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is a recreation area with minimal options for its walkability.

Getting around Boston on foot is easy. The many parks and compact neighborhoods are best explored on foot.

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 Boston Worth Visiting?.

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

How long in Chimney Rock and Lake Lure or Boston?

In either Chimney Rock and Lake Lure or Boston, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Boston than Chimney Rock and Lake Lure because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Chimney Rock and Lake Lure, and 3-5 days is enough time in Boston.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Boston 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 Boston.


  • How many days in Chimney Rock and Lake Lure or Boston? Ideal Length of Stay
    Chimney Rock and Lake Lure 1-3 
    Boston 3-5

One day in Chimney Rock and Lake Lure or Boston?

Many travelers enjoy the when visiting the destination of Chimney Rock and Lake Lure. Hikers are also drawn to this area. One day is often enough time to do most activities.

Each neighborhood in Boston has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Lots of people come for the museums. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Chimney Rock and Lake Lure or Boston?

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Each neighborhood in Boston has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything.

Five days in Chimney Rock and Lake Lure or Boston?

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. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Each neighborhood in Boston has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. This is a popular place to visit for five days.Five days is often enough time to do most activities. This city offers something for everyone.


A week in Chimney Rock and Lake Lure or Boston?

Travelers enjoy the when visiting the active destination of Chimney Rock and Lake Lure. This recreation area offers a variety of activities to choose from. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and live music when visiting the city of Boston. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. Lots of people come for the museums. 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, Boston 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
    Boston Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Chimney Rock and Lake Lure $234
    Boston $291

The average daily cost (per person) in Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is $234, while the average daily cost in Boston is $291. 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 Boston in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Chimney Rock and Lake Lure $117
    Boston $166
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Chimney Rock and Lake Lure $234
    Boston $332
Compare Hotels in Chimney Rock and Lake Lure and Boston

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


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: Boston Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Chimney Rock and Lake Lure $35
    Boston $37

Typical Local Transportation Prices in Boston

Some typical examples of transportation costs in Boston are as follows:


  • Taxi
    $35
  • Subway Daily Pass
    $9.00

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Boston

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Boston:

  • Boston hotels to Flynn Cruise Port - Departure Private Transfer: $121
  • Arrival Private Transfer: Boston Airport BOS to Boston City in Luxury SUV: $143
  • Arrival Transfer: Boston Airport BOS to Boston by Business Car: $119
  • Boston Airport (BOS) to Providence – Arrival Private Transfer : $70
  • Boston Airport (BOS): Transfer to Flynn Cruise Port Boston: $184
  • Boston Logan Airport (BOS) to Boston - Arrival Private Transfer: $61
  • Boston Logan Airport (BOS) to Boston - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $121
  • Boston Logan Airport (BOS) to Flynn Cruise Port - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $190
  • Boston Logan Airport Chauffeur, Boston Airport private Transfer: $50
  • Boston Logan Airport Transfer Limo & Car Service: $140
  • Boston Logan International Airport: Transfer to Boston: $120
  • Boston Logan Intl Airport (BOS) to Flynn Cruise Port - Arrival Private Transfer: $94

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

Prices for flights to both Boston 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
    Boston $86

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Boston

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

  • Self Guided "The North End Pizza, Cannoli and Picnic" Solo Walking Tour : $5.50
  • Morning Walks with Salem Food Tours: $34
  • Boston Freedom Trail History and Food Tour: $39
  • Freedom Trail History and Food Tour: $39
  • Pizza Beer and Paul Revere Tour: $65
  • Boston Pizza Lovers Food & History Walking Food Tour: $69
  • North End Pizza Walking Tour with 3 Slices & Cannoli: $69
  • 2-Hour Pasta Making Cooking Class With Local Chef in Boston: $75
  • North End Food Experience with Pizza, Meats & Cheese: $75
  • Pizza, Beer, and Paul Revere Tour: $75
  • City Cruises Harbor Buffet Lunch or Dinner Cruise: $89
  • Boston’s Politically Incorrect North End Food tour: $98

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Chimney Rock and Lake Lure $34
    Boston $33

Typical Entertainment Prices in Boston

Some typical examples of activities, tours, and entrance ticket prices in Boston are as follows:


  • Two Tickets to Celtics Game
    $101
  • Duck Tour
    $32

Tours and Activities in Boston

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

  • 2 Hour Boston Historical and Heritage Walking Tour: $5.00
  • Self Guided "Historic Boston Downtown Freedom Trail" Audio/GPS Walking Tour: $5.00
  • The Ghosts of Boston's Past Haunted Self-guided Tour: $5.00
  • Self-Guided Audio Tour of Boston North End: $5.75
  • Self-Guided Smartphone Ghost Walking Tour in Salem: $7.75
  • Harvard's Haunts Solo Smart Phone Guided App Ghost Walking Tour: $7.75
  • Self Guided Classic Freedom Trail Location Aware (GPS) Walking Audio Tour: $7.75
  • City History and Highlights Audio App Walking Tour: $7.99
  • Boston's Old North Church Admission with Self-Guided Audio Tour: $8.00
  • Boston Scavenger Hunt and Highlights Self-Guided Tour: $8.32
  • Harvard’s Secret Society: Exploration Game and Tour: $8.93
  • Boston Harborwalk & Tea Party Self-Guided Walking Audio Tour: $8.99

For more ideas for your next trip, check out Free Things to Do in Boston, Must-See Monuments and Memorials In Boston, and The Best Things To Do in Boston with Kids.


Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Chimney Rock and Lake Lure $21
    Boston $27

Sample the Local Flavors in Boston

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Boston:

  • Boston Bar Crawl Back Bay Beat Bar Craw: $15
  • Boos and Brews Haunted Pub Crawl: $29
  • Boston Haunted Pub Crawl: $35
  • Haunted Pub Crawl of Historic Pubs and Taverns: $35
  • 2 Hour Historic Pub Crawl in Boston: $35
  • Salem Booze and Brews Haunted Pub Crawl by US Ghost Adventures: $36
  • Boston Ghosts Boos and Brews Haunted Pub Crawl : $36
  • History Pub Crawl Tour Along the Freedom Trail: $56
  • Boston Freedom Trail History Pub Crawl Small-Group Tour: $60
  • Freedom Trail History Tour and Brewery Taste: $71
  • Sushi Making Class at a Local Brewery in Boston: $75
  • Sushi Making Class at a Local Distillery in Boston: $75


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

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 Boston Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Chimney Rock and Lake Lure or Boston?

Boston has a larger population, and is about 3550 times larger than the population of Chimney Rock and Lake Lure. When comparing the sizes of Chimney Rock and Lake Lure and Boston, 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.