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

Should you visit Chimney Rock and Lake Lure or Grand Canyon National Park?

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 Grand Canyon National Park 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. Other reasons to visit include hiking. See Chimney Rock and Lake Lure travel costs.

Grand Canyon National Park

Grand Canyon National Park is a breathtaking, stunning, and world-renowned national park. The famous beauty of Grand Canyon National Park is one of the main draws. Other popular activities here include hiking. See Grand Canyon National Park travel costs.

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure and Grand Canyon National Park: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Good for hiking
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less charming
  • Less walkable
Pros
  • Nice resorts
  • Good for hiking
  • Known for its beauty
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Very walkable
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to the sunset views
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife


Is there more to do in Chimney Rock and Lake Lure or Grand Canyon National Park?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Grand Canyon National Park than Chimney Rock and Lake Lure, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Grand Canyon National Park is better known for its resorts and impressive beauty, while Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is more popular for its museums and attractions and shopping. Grand Canyon National Park is more touristy than Chimney Rock and Lake Lure and is popular for its iconic beauty, layers of color, breathtaking sunsets, and world-renowned geological history. Also, Grand Canyon National Park is famous for the sunset views. 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 Grand Canyon National Park?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Grand Canyon National Park 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 Grand Canyon National Park?

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure
Grand Canyon National Park

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is a decent place to visit for its museums and history. However, Grand Canyon National Park does not have museums and landmarks.

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.

Grand Canyon National Park does not have museums and landmarks.


Is the Food Better in Chimney Rock and Lake Lure or Grand Canyon National Park? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure
Grand Canyon National Park

Picking the best cuisine and restaurants between Chimney Rock and Lake Lure and Grand Canyon National Park can be difficult as they are each respectable 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.

Grand Canyon National Park offers some easy restaurants to choose from. There are several markets, restaurants, and cafes in the park but, in general, the options are expensive and not the best. If possible, bring your own food and plan for a picnic with a view.

Is Chimney Rock and Lake Lure or Grand Canyon National Park Better for Nightlife?

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure
Grand Canyon National Park

It's hard to distinguish whether Chimney Rock and Lake Lure or Grand Canyon National Park has a better nightlife scene.

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is generally a quiet destination but there are options around. Most people head into nearby Asheville for the best nightlife.

Grand Canyon National Park doesn't have the most active nightlife scene. There's a couple of bars that aren't too far from the park but you'll do better to bring your own drinks and enjoy the scenic setting.

Is Chimney Rock and Lake Lure or Grand Canyon National Park Better for Resorts?

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure
Grand Canyon National Park

Grand Canyon National Park is a national park with good options for its resorts. However, Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is not a resort destination.

Grand Canyon National Park has a few great resort options. There are several options within and near the park that range from luxury to affordable. Reservations should be made well in advance for most hotels within the park. Bright Angel Lodge, El Tovar Hotel, Grand Canyon Lodge (North Rim) and Phantom Ranch are all unique places to stay.

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is not a resort destination.


Is Chimney Rock and Lake Lure or Grand Canyon National Park Better for Hiking?

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure
Grand Canyon National Park

Both Chimney Rock and Lake Lure and Grand Canyon National Park are destinations which offer very good 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 Grand Canyon National Park for the hiking trails. Hiking options at the Grand Canyon include an easy walk along the rim or a hike into the canyon. If you're planning to enjoy a view from the rim and then stroll along the rim walk, a day or two is plenty. Hiking into the canyon is a thrilling experience, but it does require more preparation and planning. You should also check out the weather before you depart as temperatures within the canyon can become dangerously hot.

Is the Shopping Better in Chimney Rock and Lake Lure or Grand Canyon National Park?

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure
Grand Canyon National Park

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is a decent place to visit for shopping. However, Grand Canyon National Park is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

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.

Grand Canyon National Park is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Chimney Rock and Lake Lure or Grand Canyon National Park More Beautiful?

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure
Grand Canyon National Park

Grand Canyon National Park is an amazing national park to visit for its scenery and beauty. Also, Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is still popular, but not quite as popular for its scenery and beauty.

The famous beauty of Grand Canyon National Park is one of the main draws. The canyon is a breathtaking national landmark that has striking colors and spectacular views.

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.


Is Chimney Rock and Lake Lure or Grand Canyon National Park Better for Families?

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure
Grand Canyon National Park

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is a very popular place for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Grand Canyon National Park is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

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.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Grand Canyon National Park. This park is a spectacular landmark with a number of nature programs that kids can enjoy. There's also a simple rim walk along the edge of the canyon that is perfect for little legs.

Is Chimney Rock and Lake Lure or Grand Canyon National Park Better for Couples?

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure
Grand Canyon National Park

Grand Canyon National Park is an amazing national park to visit for couples. Also, Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is still popular, but not quite as popular for romance.

Grand Canyon National Park is a great national park for couples, as it has plenty to offer. Couples who enjoy beauty, nature, and adventure will appreciate a visit to this park. There are amazing hikes and breathtaking views that make this a truly romantic destination. There are also several hotels and lodges that make for a truly romantic getaway (book well in advance!).

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is a great recreation area if you're traveling as a couple. 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.

Is Chimney Rock and Lake Lure or Grand Canyon National Park Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure
Grand Canyon National Park

Grand Canyon National Park is an amazing national park to visit for backpackers. Also, Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is still popular, but not quite as popular for backpackers and budget travelers.

Grand Canyon National Park is a very popular national park to visit for backpackers. Backpackers and budget travelers can take in one of America's most notable landmarks while camping at the large and affordable national park campground.

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is very popular with the backpacker crowd. There are several great campgrounds and plenty of hiking trails that make this a nice budget or backpacker getaway.


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

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure
Grand Canyon National Park

Grand Canyon National Park is a national park with a few 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.

Public transit is generally limited in Grand Canyon National Park. There are free shuttle buses that run along the South Rim of the Grand Canyon.

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 Grand Canyon National Park a more walkable city?

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure
Grand Canyon National Park

Grand Canyon National Park is a national park with good options for its ease of walking around. However, Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is a recreation area with minimal options for its walkability.

Grand Canyon National Park is a somewhat walkable national park. There's a nice rim walk that is the perfect place for a leisurely stroll, but to reach many parts of the park you'll want to have a car or plan to take some form of transit.

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 Grand Canyon National Park Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Grand Canyon National Park or Chimney Rock and Lake Lure?

How long in Chimney Rock and Lake Lure or Grand Canyon National Park?

It's fun to spend time in either Chimney Rock and Lake Lure or Grand Canyon National Park. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Grand Canyon National Park due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Chimney Rock and Lake Lure, and 1-4 days is enough time in Grand Canyon National Park.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Grand Canyon National Park 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 Grand Canyon National Park.


  • How many days in Chimney Rock and Lake Lure or Grand Canyon National Park? Ideal Length of Stay
    Chimney Rock and Lake Lure 1-3 
    Grand Canyon National Park 1-4

One day in Chimney Rock and Lake Lure or Grand Canyon National Park?

In Chimney Rock and Lake Lure, many people enjoy the that this active destination offers. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Hikers are also drawn to this area. One day is usually enough time to experience most activities.

In Grand Canyon National Park, many people enjoy the that this breathtaking destination offers. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Hikers are also drawn to this area. One day is usually enough time to experience most activities.


A weekend in Chimney Rock and Lake Lure or Grand Canyon National Park?

In Chimney Rock and Lake Lure, many people enjoy the 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.

In Grand Canyon National Park, many people enjoy the that this beautiful 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 Grand Canyon National Park?

Many people enjoy the when visiting 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. This recreation area offers something for everyone.

Many people enjoy the when visiting Grand Canyon National Park. 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 national park offers something for everyone.

A week in Chimney Rock and Lake Lure or Grand Canyon National Park?

Travelers enjoy the when visiting the recreation area of Chimney Rock and Lake Lure. 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.

Travelers enjoy the when visiting the beautiful national park of Grand Canyon National Park. 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, Grand Canyon National Park 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
    Grand Canyon National Park Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Chimney Rock and Lake Lure $234
    Grand Canyon National Park $203

The average daily cost (per person) in Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is $234, while the average daily cost in Grand Canyon National Park is $203. 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 Grand Canyon National Park in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Chimney Rock and Lake Lure $117
    Grand Canyon National Park $89
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Chimney Rock and Lake Lure $234
    Grand Canyon National Park $178
Compare Hotels in Chimney Rock and Lake Lure and Grand Canyon National Park

Looking for a hotel in Chimney Rock and Lake Lure or Grand Canyon National Park? 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 Grand Canyon National Park


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: Grand Canyon National Park Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Chimney Rock and Lake Lure $35
    Grand Canyon National Park $43

Is it cheaper to fly into Chimney Rock and Lake Lure or Grand Canyon National Park?

Prices for flights to both Grand Canyon National Park 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
    Grand Canyon National Park $84

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Grand Canyon National Park

For Grand Canyon National Park, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Grand Canyon South Rim Sunset Tour with Dinner included: $170

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Chimney Rock and Lake Lure $34
    Grand Canyon National Park $35

Tours and Activities in Grand Canyon National Park

For Grand Canyon National Park, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • Grand Canyon South & East Rim Self-Driving, Walking & Shuttling Tour: $17
  • Ultimate Arizona Self-Guided Driving and Walking Tour Bundle: $32
  • Grand Canyon West: All Access Ticket: $114
  • 3 Hour Off-Road Sunset Safari to Grand Canyon with Entrance Gate Detour : $123
  • Grand Canyon Signature Hummer Tour with Optional Sunset Views: $127
  • Grand Entrance Grand Canyon Jeep Tour: $136
  • 4-Hour Biblical Creation + Sunset Tour • Grand Canyon National Park South Rim: $149
  • 4-Hour Grand Canyon Morning Rim Tour featuring Biblical Creation: $149
  • Tusayan: Grand Canyon Desert View & South Rim Pink Jeep Tour: $150
  • Grand Entrance Sunset Tour from Tusayan: $155
  • Desert View Grand Canyon Jeep Tour: $157
  • Private Grand Canyon South Rim VAN tours: $162

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Chimney Rock and Lake Lure $21
    Grand Canyon National Park $11


When comparing the travel costs between Chimney Rock and Lake Lure and Grand Canyon National Park, 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 Grand Canyon National Park Expensive?.