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

Should you visit Chimney Rock and Lake Lure or Denver?

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 Denver 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 peaceful, active, and beautiful recreation area. Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is a beautiful place to visit, too. And you can't forget about the hiking. See Chimney Rock and Lake Lure travel costs.

Denver

Denver is a suburban, accessible, and sprawling city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. Other popular activities here include hiking, shopping, and skiing. See Denver travel costs.

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


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

Tourists will generally find more to do in Denver. Although Chimney Rock and Lake Lure and Denver are both popular with visitors, Denver has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Denver is more popular for its skiing, nightlife, shopping, and big city activities, while Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is known for its hiking and impressive beauty. Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is more touristy than Denver and is known for its beautiful views and fun outdoor activities. Denver is popular for serving as a gateway to the Rocky Mountains and the many national parks that are in the area. It is also home to Red Rocks Park.

How is Chimney Rock and Lake Lure different from Denver?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Chimney Rock and Lake Lure or Denver Better for Skiing?

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure
Denver

Denver is a city with good options for winter skiing. However, Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is not a skiing destination.

Head to Denver for some great skiing and other winter activities. Although there's no skiing in the immediate area, there is a huge list of world class ski resorts within an hour or two of town. Two of the closest are Echo Mountain Resort and Loveland Ski Area.

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is not a skiing destination.


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

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure
Denver

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

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 Denver specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. Many people use Denver as a starting or ending point for their mountain and national park trip, but those who linger can visit some of the city's museums and sights. Popular museums include the Denver Museum of Nature and Science, the History Colorado Center, and the Forney Museum of Transportation.

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

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure
Denver

Picking the best cuisine and restaurants between Chimney Rock and Lake Lure and Denver can be difficult as they are each decent in their own way.

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure may not make the list for most foodies, but you'll find what you need while you're in town. Within Chimney Rock Park there's a deli and a cafe. Nearby you'll also find casual eateries with pizza or classic American dishes.

Denver offers some easy restaurants to choose from. It's a pretty large city, so you'll find some nice local restaurants, but the foodie scene is still emerging in many neighborhoods. A number of restaurants offer outdoor seating, which is nice. You'll also find a growing selection of international restaurants. For something uniquely local, you should try the Bison steak and fried pickles.

Is Chimney Rock and Lake Lure or Denver Better for Nightlife?

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure
Denver

Denver 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.

Denver has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. The city has come a long way with its nightlife. There's a great craft beer scene and the downtown area has really come to life. Popular bars and clubs in town include the Grizzly Rose and 54Thirty Rooftop. Many places are concentrated in the Soco Nightlife District.

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 Denver Better for Hiking?

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure
Denver

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is a well-known place for the nearby hiking options. Also, Denver is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its hiking trails.

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.

Plenty of visitors go hiking around Denver. The city is very close to many beautiful parks and hiking areas in the Rocky Mountains. It's not hard to make a day trip from town and enjoy some great hiking. Nice options include the Trading Post Trail in Red Rocks Mountain Park, Bergen Peak near Evergreen, and Chimney Gulch Trail near the town of Golden.

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

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure
Denver

Denver 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 Denver to go shopping. The city has many outlet malls that budget shoppers appreciate. There are also weekend farmer's markets, boutique shopping areas, and all of the major chains that you'll find in most larger cities.

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 Denver More Beautiful?

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure
Denver

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is a nice place to visit for its scenery and beauty. However, Denver is not a destination known for its beauty.

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

Denver is not a destination known for its beauty.


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

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure
Denver

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is a well-known place for its family-friendly activities. Also, Denver is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is a very kid-friendly recreation area. 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.

Denver is a family-friendly recreation area. It is a family-friendly city with museums, playgrounds, and plenty of outdoor activities. There are also a few ropes courses near town that kids and adults alike will enjoy. Popular activities include the Denver Zoo, the Denver Museum of Nature and Science, and Children's Museum of Denver at Marsico Campus.

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

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure
Denver

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is a well-known place for its romantic activities. Also, Denver is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for couples.

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.

Denver is a good recreation area for couples to visit. There are many beautiful and romantic outdoor activities in the area such as parks and botanical gardens. There are also spas, including the impressive Spa at the Brown Palace, as well as upscale restaurants and fun bars and clubs to explore.

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

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure
Denver

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is a well-known place for backpackers. However, Denver is not a good city for backpackers and budget travelers.

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

Denver is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. Some backpackers fly into Denver to begin their national park tour. There is a hostel or two around town, and if you leave town quickly you'll find campgrounds not far away.


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

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure
Denver

Denver is a city with good options for students. However, Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is not popular with students.

Denver is popular with students. There are a few students in the city, but there isn't a college town vibe that you'd get at other nearby university areas.

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is not popular with students.

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

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure
Denver

Denver 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 Denver, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. If you're not planning to leave town, the light rail and bus systems offer good access to much of Denver.

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 Denver a more walkable city?

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure
Denver

Neither Chimney Rock and Lake Lure or Denver are walkable places.

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

Denver is not a very walkable recreation area. While the downtown area is generally walkable, this is still a sprawling city where you'll really want to have a car to access areas outside of town.


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

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

How long in Chimney Rock and Lake Lure or Denver?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Chimney Rock and Lake Lure and Denver. You can spend similar amounts of time exploring each one. 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 Denver.

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


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

One day in Chimney Rock and Lake Lure or Denver?

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.

In Denver, many people enjoy the skiing and nightlife that this sprawling destination offers. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. 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 Denver?

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.

In Denver, many people enjoy the nightlife and shopping that this destination offers. 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 Denver?

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.

Many people enjoy the shopping and skiing when visiting Denver. 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 Denver?

Travelers enjoy the when visiting the peaceful 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 skiing and nightlife when visiting the city of Denver. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. 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, Denver 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
    Denver Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Chimney Rock and Lake Lure $234
    Denver $248

The average daily cost (per person) in Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is $234, while the average daily cost in Denver is $248. 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 Denver in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Chimney Rock and Lake Lure $117
    Denver $87
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Chimney Rock and Lake Lure $234
    Denver $174
Compare Hotels in Chimney Rock and Lake Lure and Denver

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


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: Denver Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Chimney Rock and Lake Lure $35
    Denver $101

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Denver

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Denver:

  • Arrival Private Transfer Denver Airport DEN to Denver City by SUV: $290
  • Arrival Private Transfer: Denver Airport DEN to Denver in Business Car: $119
  • Arrival Private Transfer: Denver Airport DEN to Denver in Luxury Van: $149
  • Arrival Transfer Denver Airport DEN to Denver City by Luxury Car: $170
  • Avon/Vail Valley to Denver Airport (DEN) - Departure Private Transfer : $143
  • Denver Airport (DEN) to Aspen hotel or address - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $287
  • Denver Airport (DEN) to Avon/Vail Valley - Arrival Private Transfer : $143
  • Denver Airport (DEN) to Avon/Vail Valley - Round-Trip Private Transfer : $287
  • Denver Airport (DEN) to Breckenridge - Arrival Private Transfer: $143
  • Denver Airport (DEN) to Keystone resort - Arrival Private Transfer: $143
  • Denver Airport (DEN) to Keystone resort - Round-Trip Private Transfer : $287
  • Denver Airport (DEN): Private Transfer to Denver hotels: $276

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

Prices for flights to both Denver 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
    Denver $73

Typical Food Prices in Denver

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


  • Sushi Dinner (for 2)
    $61

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Denver

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

  • Epic Pad Thai Cooking Class in Denver: $55
  • 16th Street Mall Food Tour with Local Guide: $62
  • Arts District Walking Food Tour: $79
  • Mystery Puzzle Food Tour in Golden, CO: $80
  • Denver RiNo Arts District Food Tour: $85
  • Downtown Denver Food Tour: $85
  • Denver Food Tour: 6+ Tastings in Historic Downtown: $99
  • Dinner Food Tour in RiNo Denver : $99
  • RiNo Evening Food Tour with a Local Guide: $99
  • Denver Food Tour: Wild West Flavors & Downtown Classics: $111
  • Taste of the City Food Tour by Bike or E-Bike: $125

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

Tours and Activities in Denver

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

  • $5 Capitol Hill History & Ghost Walking Tour: $5.00
  • Denver's Art District Self Guided Walking Tour: $5.00
  • Denver Scavenger Hunt and Highlights Self Guided Tour: $7.19
  • Denver Scavenger Hunt and Sights Self-Guided Tour: $7.73
  • Denver's Heart A Self Guided Tour of the State Capitol and Beyond: $8.99
  • Denver’s Wild Side: Self-Guided Audio Tour of its Notorious Past: $9.99
  • Winding Pathways of Denver's City Park A Self-Guided Tour : $9.99
  • Unique Scavenger Hunt Experience in Denver by Operation City Quest: $10
  • Fun Royal Scavenger Hunt Adventure in Arvada, CO: $10
  • Self Guided Denver Ghost Hunt: Mile High Ghost Tour: $12
  • Denver Audio Tour Adventure: $15
  • Molly Brown House Museum Self-Guided Tour & Entry: $15

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Chimney Rock and Lake Lure $21
    Denver $5.31

Sample the Local Flavors in Denver

Also in Denver, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • Denver Bar Crawl Lodo Bar Crawl: $15
  • California Vs. Colorado Wine Tasting: $30
  • Spirits & Spirits Haunted Pub Crawl: $30
  • 4+ Hour Themed Bar Crawl Through Denver's RiNo Arts District : $35
  • Private Vintner's Wine Tasting Experience in Colorado: $40
  • Downtown Denver Pub Crawl - Food & Drinks Included!: $50
  • Neighborhood Bar Crawl in RiNo Arts District (Denver): $50
  • Vintner's Personalized Wine Tasting Experience: $60
  • Wild West Pub Crawl: $61
  • Buds & Brews Cannabis Grow Tour and Brewery Visit: $67
  • E-Bike & Brews: Denver's Platte River & Brewery E-Bike Tour: $125
  • Denver Pedicab Brewery Tour: $130


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


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

Denver has a larger population, and is about 3340 times larger than the population of Chimney Rock and Lake Lure. When comparing the sizes of Chimney Rock and Lake Lure and Denver, 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.