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

Should you visit Chimney Rock and Lake Lure or Chattanooga?

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 Chattanooga 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 active, beautiful, and peaceful recreation area. Chimney Rock and Lake Lure offers plenty of beauty for visitors. Other popular activities here include hiking. See Chimney Rock and Lake Lure travel costs.

Chattanooga

Chattanooga is a bustling, outdoorsy, and thriving city. Other popular activities here include nightlife, food, and hiking. See Chattanooga travel costs.

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure and Chattanooga: 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
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good public transit
  • Very walkable
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with backpackers


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

Travelers will usually find more to do in Chattanooga. Although Chimney Rock and Lake Lure and Chattanooga are popular destinations, Chattanooga has more sights and attractions for tourists. Chattanooga is very popular for its museums and attractions, food, nightlife, and shopping, while Chimney Rock and Lake Lure attracts visitors for its impressive beauty. Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is more touristy than Chattanooga and is known for its beautiful views and fun outdoor activities. Chattanooga is famous for it's hikes, railways, and nearby natural areas. It is also well known for Rock City.

How is Chimney Rock and Lake Lure different from Chattanooga?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure
Chattanooga

Chattanooga is a city with good options for its museums and landmarks. However, Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is a recreation area with minimal options for its historical sights.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Chattanooga. It's a thriving city and there are a number of museums to explore. The Hunter Museum of American Art is great for art enthusiasts. There's also the Creative Discovery Museum, the Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum, and the 6th Cavalry Museum, as well as several smaller museums that you can visit.

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

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure
Chattanooga

Chattanooga 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 Chattanooga area. There are a growing number of restaurants that range from local dives to fine dining. Fried food is common, but you'll also find Mexican and classic hamburgers. Popular dishes that are local to the area include catfish, southern barbecue, and hush puppies.

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 Chattanooga Better for Nightlife?

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure
Chattanooga

Chattanooga is a city with good options for its evening party scene. However, Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is a recreation area with minimal options for nightlife.

Chattanooga has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. You'll find plenty of bars and clubs around town. There are also a number of comedy and improv clubs that are fun to check out.

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 Chattanooga Better for Hiking?

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure
Chattanooga

Both Chimney Rock and Lake Lure and Chattanooga are destinations which offer excellent hiking.

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.

Many visitors go to Chattanooga for the hiking trails. It's proximity to the mountains means that you don't have to go far to find good hiking. Within a half hour of town there are more than 50 trailheads. Lookout Mountain and Signal Mountain are both hiking destinations. Several trails have swimming spots and many pass through nice forests or head to impressive viewpoints.


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

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure
Chattanooga

Chattanooga 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 Chattanooga to go shopping. Head downtown for local shops or to the larger malls if you want mainstream stores. Many visitors enjoy antiquing while they're in town, but there are also farmer's markets and thrift stores.

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 Chattanooga More Beautiful?

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure
Chattanooga

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is a popular place for its scenery and beauty. However, Chattanooga is not a destination known for its beauty.

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.

Chattanooga is not a destination known for its beauty.

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

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure
Chattanooga

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is a great destination for its family-friendly activities. Also, Chattanooga is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is known to be 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.

Chattanooga offers lots of family activities. Many people enjoy a visit to the Tennessee Aquarium, which has a touch tank and a butterfly exhibit, among other things. Near downtown, Coolidge Park is a great place for kids to get their energy out. There's also the popular Lookout Mountain Incline Railway as well as many hiking trails in the area.


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

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure
Chattanooga

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is a great destination for couples. Also, Chattanooga is still popular, but not quite as popular for romance.

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.

Chattanooga is a nice destination for couples. Many couples enjoy staying at a local inn and then dining in a nice restaurant or visiting a winery. There's an eclectic art district to explore as well as horse drawn carriages and plenty of nearby hiking trails.

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

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure
Chattanooga

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is a great destination for backpackers. However, Chattanooga is a city with minimal options for backpackers and budget travelers.

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is a very popular recreation area for backpackers and budget travelers. There are several great campgrounds and plenty of hiking trails that make this a nice budget or backpacker getaway.

Chattanooga is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. It's proximity to the mountains and diverse outdoor activities make this an under-rated destination for many backpackers.

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

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure
Chattanooga

Chattanooga is a great destination 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.

Many visitors use the public transit system in Chattanooga. The city has a convenient and free electric shuttle service. It travels through the downtown and has stops at many points of interest such as the Chattanooga Choo Choo and the Tennessee Aquarium.

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 Chattanooga a more walkable city?

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure
Chattanooga

Chattanooga 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.

Chattanooga is a very walkable destination. The city has put a lot of effort into improving its walkability. In particular, the downtown is nice to explore 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 Chattanooga Worth Visiting?.

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

How long in Chimney Rock and Lake Lure or Chattanooga?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Chimney Rock and Lake Lure and Chattanooga. In our opinion, Chattanooga has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Chattanooga than Chimney Rock and Lake Lure. In general, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Chimney Rock and Lake Lure, and 2-3 days is enough time in Chattanooga.

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

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

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


  • How many days in Chimney Rock and Lake Lure or Chattanooga? Ideal Length of Stay
    Chimney Rock and Lake Lure 1-3 
    Chattanooga 2-3

One day in Chimney Rock and Lake Lure or Chattanooga?

Visitors enjoy the when visiting the active recreation area of Chimney Rock and Lake Lure. Hikers are also drawn to this area. One day should give you a good understanding of everything this recreation area has to offer. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

In Chattanooga, many people enjoy the museums and nightlife that this thriving destination offers. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Hikers are also drawn to this area. 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 Chattanooga?

Visitors enjoy the when visiting the active destination of Chimney Rock and Lake Lure. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. This recreation area offers something for everyone. Plenty of people spend a weekend in the area when traveling. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

In Chattanooga, many people enjoy the nightlife and food that this destination offers. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. 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 Chattanooga?

The beautiful recreation area of Chimney Rock and Lake Lure offers . 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. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

Many people enjoy the food and shopping when visiting Chattanooga. 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. This city offers something for everyone.

A week in Chimney Rock and Lake Lure or Chattanooga?

Many people enjoy the when visiting Chimney Rock and Lake Lure. Anyone can find something fun to do here. 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 shopping and museums when visiting the city of Chattanooga. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. 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.


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, Chattanooga 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
    Chattanooga Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Chimney Rock and Lake Lure $234
    Chattanooga $225

The average daily cost (per person) in Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is $234, while the average daily cost in Chattanooga is $225. 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 Chattanooga in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Chimney Rock and Lake Lure $117
    Chattanooga $92
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Chimney Rock and Lake Lure $234
    Chattanooga $184
Compare Hotels in Chimney Rock and Lake Lure and Chattanooga

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


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: Chattanooga Hotel Prices.

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

Typical Local Transportation Prices in Chattanooga

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


  • Chattanooga Zoo (for 2)
    $16

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Chattanooga

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Chattanooga:

  • Private One Way Transfer from/to Chattanooga Airport and Hotels: $185

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

Prices for flights to both Chattanooga 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
    Chattanooga $103

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Chattanooga

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

  • Historic Southside Food Tour in Chattanooga: $99
  • Downtown Chattanooga Food Tour: $119
  • ChattaBrunch Food Tour: $119
  • ChattaBrunch Food Tour: $119
  • Southside Food Tour with Lunch: $129
  • Downtown Food Tour with 3-4 Tastings: $139

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Chimney Rock and Lake Lure $34
    Chattanooga $52

Tours and Activities in Chattanooga

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

  • Chattanooga Blues to Bridges Self Guided Walking Tour: $9.75
  • National Medal of Honor Heritage Museum Admission Ticket in Chattanooga: $14
  • Guided Ghost Walking Tour: $23
  • Chattanooga Crypts and Chills Ghost Tour: $24
  • Original Local Award-Winning Walking Ghost Tour: $25
  • Murder & Mayhem Haunted History Walking Tour: $25
  • A Spooky and Family-Friendly Walking Tour: $30
  • Family Friendly Ghost Tour in Chattanooga: $30
  • Ghost & Booze Tour of Chattanooga - 21+ Over: $31
  • Chattanooga Crypts and Chills Ghost Tour: $32
  • The Flash City Sightseeing Tour by Trolley: $34
  • The Flash: 1 Hour City Tour : $34

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Chimney Rock and Lake Lure $21
    Chattanooga $24

Sample the Local Flavors in Chattanooga

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

  • Distillery Tour at Gate 11: $18
  • Chattanooga Wine Tasting with Art Sightseeing Tour: $180


When comparing the travel costs between Chimney Rock and Lake Lure and Chattanooga, we can see that Chimney Rock and Lake Lure 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 Chimney Rock and Lake Lure Expensive? and Is Chattanooga Expensive?.


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

Chattanooga has a larger population, and is about 940 times larger than the population of Chimney Rock and Lake Lure. When comparing the sizes of Chimney Rock and Lake Lure and Chattanooga, 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.