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

Should you visit Chimney Rock and Lake Lure or Philadelphia?

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 Philadelphia 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. Visitors also love the hiking. See Chimney Rock and Lake Lure travel costs.

Philadelphia

Philadelphia is a cultural, diverse, and historic city. As it's a big city, visitors will find plenty to do, too. Philadelphia offers plenty of beauty for visitors. Other popular activities here include food, shopping, and museums. See Philadelphia travel costs.

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure and Philadelphia: 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
  • Less popular for shopping
  • 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
  • Scenic old town
  • Fun shopping
  • 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


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

Tourists will generally find more to do in Philadelphia. Although Chimney Rock and Lake Lure and Philadelphia are both popular with visitors, Philadelphia has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Philadelphia is more popular for its museums and attractions, theatre productions, food, nightlife, music, historical sights, shopping, christmas markets, and big city activities, while Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is known for its hiking. Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is more touristy than Philadelphia and is popular for its beautiful views and fun outdoor activities. Philadelphia is popular for its diverse population, large number of universities, great restaurant and market scene, and its role in American history. It is also home to The Liberty Bell.

How is Chimney Rock and Lake Lure different from Philadelphia?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure
Philadelphia

Philadelphia 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 Philadelphia on the map. The city has a rich history with a number of museums and monuments. Popular sites around the city include the Liberty Bell, Independence Hall, the Philadelphia Museum of Art, and the National Museum of Jewish American History.

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 Philadelphia Better for Theater?

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure
Philadelphia

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

Philadelphia attracts a wide-range of world-class performances. There are major Broadway shows as well as smaller venues. Head to The Avenue of the Arts along Broad Street for a popular stretch of theaters.

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is not a theatre destination.

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

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure
Philadelphia

Philadelphia 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 Philadelphia is an experience not to be missed. It has grown into a well-recognized food destination. It's diversity of cultures and residents have influenced the restaurant scene and you'll find many great places to dine covering a number of international flavors. The city is famous for its Philly cheesesteak and roast pork sandwich. You can also grab some local favorites at Reading Terminal Market.

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 Philadelphia Better for Nightlife?

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure
Philadelphia

Philadelphia 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 Philadelphia know how to have a good time. The city's nightlife scene carries late into the evening with many rooftop and outdoor beer gardens. Most of the clubs and bars are found in the downtown area and you'll find places to dance, listen to live music, or sip a trendy cocktails.

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 Philadelphia Better for Music?

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure
Philadelphia

Philadelphia is a great destination for its music scene. However, Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is not a live music destination.

Philadelphia has become a hotbed of musicians and artists. The city's diverse music scene includes jazz, rock, and hip hop.

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

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

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure
Philadelphia

Philadelphia is a city with good options for its historic old town charm. However, Chimney Rock and Lake Lure does not have a historic old town.

Philadelphia offers a nice historic old town area. The Old City has a number of Colonial-era sites including Independence Hall, the Liberty Bell, the Betsy Ross House.

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

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

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure
Philadelphia

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is an excellent place to visit for its hiking trails. However, Philadelphia is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors explore the nearby hiking trails while visiting 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.

Philadelphia is not a hiking destination.


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

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure
Philadelphia

Philadelphia is a great destination for its shopping areas. However, Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is a recreation area with minimal options for shopping.

Browsing through shops is a popular activity in Philadelphia. With all items tax-free, this city is a great place to shop. It has many boutique shops as well as name brand stores and shopping areas. For a local vibe, head to Reading Terminal Market.

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 Philadelphia More Beautiful?

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure
Philadelphia

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

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.

Philadelphia is a gorgeous place to visit. With its diverse neighborhoods and rich history, this city offers its own type of beauty.

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

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure
Philadelphia

Both Chimney Rock and Lake Lure and Philadelphia are high quality to visit with kids.

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.

Philadelphia is a very family-friendly destination. The city has many museums and a fascinating history that is interesting to kids and adults alike. Popular activities include a zoo and Sesame Place. Kids also love the hands-on Please Touch Museum.


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

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure
Philadelphia

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is an excellent place to visit for its romantic activities. Also, Philadelphia is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for couples.

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure makes for a fun place to visit for 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.

Philadelphia is a good recreation area for couples to visit. Like many large cities, it is a fun place to explore in the evening as a couple. This is also a great foodie destination with great markets, food trucks, and diverse restaurants that reflect the city's diverse population.

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

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure
Philadelphia

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is an excellent place to visit for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Philadelphia is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for backpackers.

Many backpackers 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.

Philadelphia is a good recreation area to visit for backpackers. There are a few good hostels for backpackers and budget travelers to choose from.

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

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure
Philadelphia

Philadelphia is a great destination for students. However, Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is not popular with students.

Students come from all over to stay in Philadelphia. With its many universities and diverse population, this city is a great place for international students.

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is not popular with students.


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

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure
Philadelphia

Philadelphia 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 Philadelphia. The system includes a subway, trolleys, buses, and a commuter rail.

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 Philadelphia a more walkable city?

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure
Philadelphia

Philadelphia 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 Philadelphia on foot is easy. The Old City is particularly walkable, as is Avenue of the Arts, and Rittenhouse Square.

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 Philadelphia Worth Visiting?.

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

How long in Chimney Rock and Lake Lure or Philadelphia?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Chimney Rock and Lake Lure and Philadelphia. In our opinion, Philadelphia has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Philadelphia 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 Philadelphia.

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

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

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


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

One day in Chimney Rock and Lake Lure or Philadelphia?

In Chimney Rock and Lake Lure, many people enjoy the that this active recreation area offers. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. In one day, you should have a good grasp of this recreation area.

Each neighborhood in Philadelphia 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. 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 Philadelphia?

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is a fun place to experience. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. So, a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

Each neighborhood in Philadelphia has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. 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 Philadelphia?

You'll find around the active destination of Chimney Rock and Lake Lure. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days.

Many people enjoy the theater and nightlife when visiting Philadelphia. 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 Philadelphia?

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is a popular place to visit. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and live music when visiting the city of Philadelphia. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. 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, Philadelphia 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
    Philadelphia Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Chimney Rock and Lake Lure $234
    Philadelphia $224

The average daily cost (per person) in Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is $234, while the average daily cost in Philadelphia is $224. 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 Philadelphia in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Chimney Rock and Lake Lure $117
    Philadelphia $119
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Chimney Rock and Lake Lure $234
    Philadelphia $238
Compare Hotels in Chimney Rock and Lake Lure and Philadelphia

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


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: Philadelphia Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Chimney Rock and Lake Lure $35
    Philadelphia $28

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Philadelphia

Also for Philadelphia, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Philadelphia Airport (PHL) to Philadelphia - Arrival Private Transfer: $109
  • Philadelphia City to Baltimore City - Private Car Transfer: $210
  • Private Transfer Philadelphia to Philadephia Airport PHL by SUV: $146
  • Private Transfer Philadephia to Philadelphia Airport PHL by Sedan: $94
  • Private Transfer: Philadelphia Airport PHL to Philadelphia in Business Car: $104
  • Private Transfer: Philadelphia Airport PHL to Philadelphia in Luxury SUV: $115
  • Private transfer from PHL to Philadelphia Downtown: $130

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

Prices for flights to both Philadelphia 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
    Philadelphia $84

Typical Food Prices in Philadelphia

For Philadelphia, here are some examples of average food and meal prices for travelers:


  • Casual Lunch (for 3)
    $27

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Philadelphia

For Philadelphia, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Nibble Food Tour: $58
  • Philadelphia Italian Market Public Food Tour: $59
  • Center City Philadelphia Food Tour with Reading Market : $59
  • Flavors of Philly Food Tour: $65
  • Behind The Scenes Food Tour: South Philly & Italian Market: $95
  • Highlights of East Passyunk Food Tour: $105
  • City Cruises Signature Dinner Cruise with Buffet: $123

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Chimney Rock and Lake Lure $34
    Philadelphia $28

Typical Entertainment Prices in Philadelphia

Below are a few sample prices from actual travelers for Philadelphia's activities, tours, and tickets:


  • Big Bus Tour (family of 3)
    $99

Tours and Activities in Philadelphia

For Philadelphia, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • Philadelphia Haunted Ghost Smartphone Guided Audio Walking Tour: $7.75
  • Unique Scavenger Hunt Experience in Philadelphia by Operation City Quest: $10
  • The Road to Revolution: A Self-Guided Audio Tour in Philadelphia: $12
  • Philadelphia Architecture: Discover Every American Style on a GPS Audio Tour: $12
  • Philadelphia 76ers Basketball Game Ticket at Wells Fargo Center: $12
  • University of Pennsylvania Scavenger Hunt Experience: $15
  • Experience the season with a scavenger hunt in Philadelphia with Holly Jolly: $20
  • The Constitutional Walking Tour of Philadelphia: $24
  • The Ghosts of Philadelphia Tour: $25
  • Museum of the American Revolution Admission Ticket with Audio Guided Option: $27
  • Revolution and the Founders: History Tour of Philadelphia: $29
  • 90 Minute History Walking Tour of Old City Philadelphia: $29

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

Sample the Local Flavors in Philadelphia

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

  • Philly Ghosts Boos and Booze Haunted Pub Crawl: $36
  • Liberty History Tour Pub Crawl: $45
  • Philadelphia Prohibition Pub Crawl: $50
  • Philly Signature Guided Brewery Tour: $105


When comparing the travel costs between Chimney Rock and Lake Lure and Philadelphia, 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 Philadelphia Expensive?.


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

Philadelphia has a larger population, and is about 9140 times larger than the population of Chimney Rock and Lake Lure. When comparing the sizes of Chimney Rock and Lake Lure and Philadelphia, 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.