A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Fort Lauderdale vs. Boone for Couples, Food, Nightlife, and Families

Should you visit Fort Lauderdale or Boone?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for Fort Lauderdale and Boone. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.

Fort Lauderdale

Fort Lauderdale is a bustling, spirited, and luxury coastal city. With stunning beauty, Fort Lauderdale attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the beaches, shopping, and nightlife. See Fort Lauderdale travel costs.

Boone

Boone is a quaint, picturesque, and charming town. As this is a charming small town, visitors also come to explore the sights and local activities. Boone is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for skiing, nightlife, and food. See Boone travel costs.

Fort Lauderdale and Boone: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Active nightlife
  • Nice resorts
  • Good scuba and snorkeling destination
  • Popular beach
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to the Local Beaches
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with backpackers
Pros
  • Popular for skiing
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Small town charm
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to the Blue Ridge Parkway


Is there more to do in Fort Lauderdale or Boone?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Fort Lauderdale than Boone, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Fort Lauderdale is better known for its food, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, and beaches, while Boone is more popular for its skiing, museums and attractions, hiking, shopping, and small town charm. Fort Lauderdale is more touristy than Boone and is popular for its canals, beaches, walkable waterfront, and luxury resorts. Also, Fort Lauderdale is famous for The Local Beaches. Boone is well known for its proximity to great hiking, skiing, and small town charm.

How is Fort Lauderdale different from Boone?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Boone and Fort Lauderdale. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Is Fort Lauderdale or Boone Better for Skiing?

Fort Lauderdale
Boone

Boone is a great destination for winter skiing. However, Fort Lauderdale is not a skiing destination.

Boone is an extremely popular place for snow skiing and other winter sports. It's a very popular ski destination in North Carolina. There are family-friendly slopes as well as more challenging options. Head to the popular Appalachian Ski Mountain, nearby Beech Mountain, or Sugar Mountain for some of the area's best skiing.

Fort Lauderdale is not a skiing destination.


Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Fort Lauderdale or Boone?

Fort Lauderdale
Boone

Boone is a good destination for its museums and landmarks. However, Fort Lauderdale does not have museums and landmarks.

Boone is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. Most people spend the majority of their time exploring the natural beauty, but there are also several small local museums such as the Banner House Museum.

Fort Lauderdale does not have museums and landmarks.

Is the Food Better in Fort Lauderdale or Boone? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Fort Lauderdale
Boone

Fort Lauderdale is a great coastal city for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Boone is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Fort Lauderdale has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. Seafood is the obvious option with popular dishes being fish tacos, sea bass, and scallop risotto. There are many waterfront restaurants or you could head to Las Olas Boulevard, which has many bistros, cafes, and restaurants.

Boone offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. You'll find farm to table restaurants, local cafes, and all of the standard chain restaurants nearby. Check for a High Country Grown certification if you want to prioritize locally sourced ingredients.

Is Fort Lauderdale or Boone Better for Nightlife?

Fort Lauderdale
Boone

It's hard to distinguish whether Fort Lauderdale or Boone has a better nightlife scene.

The people in Fort Lauderdale know how to have a good time. Trendy and upscale partying is the name of the game in this Florida city. Most people head to the beach, Las Olas Blvd, River Front and The New Hard Rock Seminole Hotel Complex for the best bars and clubs. You'll find the most activity around the weekends, but there really is something going on any night of the week.

The nightlife in Boone has something for everybody. It's a small town, but there are local breweries and a great nightlife scene that is, in large part, influenced by the large student population.


Is Fort Lauderdale or Boone Better for Resorts?

Fort Lauderdale
Boone

Fort Lauderdale is an amazing coastal city to visit for its luxury resorts. However, Boone is not a resort destination.

If you're looking for a fantastic resort destination, Fort Lauderdale is a perfect choice. Luxury beachfront resorts are plentiful in the area. Several of the most impressive include the Ritz-Carlton, W Fort Lauderdale, and the Dalmar. Most resorts have a beachfront pool, hot tubs, and depending on the resort, a kid's club.

Boone is not a resort destination.

Is Fort Lauderdale or Boone Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Fort Lauderdale
Boone

Fort Lauderdale is very good for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Boone is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

It's worth going snorkeling or scuba diving in Fort Lauderdale. Although the snorkeling doesn't compare to what you'll find further south around the Florida Keys, there are some great places to pull your mask and fins out in the area. Popular snorkeling spots nearby include the Vista Park Reef, Pompano Beach, and Hollywood North Beach Park.

Boone is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Fort Lauderdale or Boone Better for Beaches?

Fort Lauderdale
Boone

Fort Lauderdale is an amazing coastal city to visit for the beach. However, Boone is not a beach destination.

With world-famous beaches, Fort Lauderdale is a very popular vacation destination. With seven miles of beautiful sandy beaches, a fun boardwalk, and impressive views, the beaches here are among the best in the area. They are surprisingly walkable and, while there can be crowds, there's still a laid-back and relaxing atmosphere.

Boone is not a beach destination.


Is Fort Lauderdale or Boone Better for Hiking?

Fort Lauderdale
Boone

Boone is a great destination for its hiking experiences. However, Fort Lauderdale is not a hiking destination.

You'll find a nice variety of hiking trails around Boone. The area is filled with wonderful hikes, particularly around Grandfather Mountain and along the Blue Ridge Parkway. The famed Appalachian Trail passes through the area as well. Many hikes take you through beautiful forests, passed dramatic waterfalls, and to breathtaking viewpoints.

Fort Lauderdale is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Fort Lauderdale or Boone?

Fort Lauderdale
Boone

Boone is a great destination for shopping. Also, Fort Lauderdale is still popular, but not quite as popular for its shopping opportunities.

Boone is an extremely popular place for shoppers. Wander along King Street for some of the town's best shopping. There are independent vendors and antique shops that are fun to pop into. The town is also known for its farmer's markets.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Fort Lauderdale. For interesting local boutiques head to Las Olas Boulevard and for name brand stores you'll want to visit Sawgrass Mills Mall.

Is Fort Lauderdale or Boone More Beautiful?

Fort Lauderdale
Boone

Fort Lauderdale and Boone both are comparable with their high quality scenery and beauty.

Fort Lauderdale is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Seven miles of scenic coastline with a boardwalk to explore make this a beautiful Florida beach destination.

The beauty of Boone is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. The surrounding area is filled with great natural beauty and wonderful hikes.


Is Fort Lauderdale or Boone Better for Families?

Fort Lauderdale
Boone

Both Fort Lauderdale and Boone are high quality family-friendly destinations.

Fort Lauderdale is a very family-friendly place to visit. With seven miles of beautiful sandy beaches and a number of kid-oriented activities, the kids will love it here. Fun activities include Bluefoot Pirate Adventures, Butterfly World, and Funderdome. On sunny days there are many outdoor recreation areas and when the weather isn't cooperating, there are hands-on museums.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Boone is very family-friendly. Near town you'll find kid-friendly hikes, such as Linville Falls. There are also several places where kids can go ziplining or rock climbing. Parks and outdoor activities are abundant and the whole family will enjoy the setting.

Is Fort Lauderdale or Boone Better for Couples?

Fort Lauderdale
Boone

Fort Lauderdale is an amazing coastal city to visit for couples. Also, Boone is not as popular, but is still a nice town for romance.

For those traveling as a couple, Fort Lauderdale has plenty to offer. Fine dining, beautiful beaches, and great shopping make for a great romantic getaway. Couples and honeymooners love relaxing at the beaches in Fort Lauderdale. A sunset walk on the beach and a stay at a romantic resort will make for an unforgettable trip.

Boone is a very popular place to visit for couples. The charming town has a romantic setting with local restaurants, beautiful hikes, and plenty of shopping. Couples enjoy staying at bed and breakfasts and enjoying the quaint atmosphere.

Is Fort Lauderdale or Boone Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Fort Lauderdale
Boone

Boone is a good destination for backpackers. However, Fort Lauderdale is a coastal city with minimal options for backpackers and budget travelers.

Plenty of backpackers visit Boone. While there aren't many hostels in the area, there are plenty of campgrounds. The nearby Appalachian State University also ensures that there are plenty of fun activities for young visitors.

Fort Lauderdale is not the best destination for backpackers and budget travelers due to its high prices. You'll find few backpackers heading to the high end city.


Is Fort Lauderdale or Boone Better for Students?

Fort Lauderdale
Boone

Boone is a must-visit destination for students. However, Fort Lauderdale is not popular with students.

Boone is a very popular place to visit for students. This mountain town offers a great setting for students who enjoy hiking and skiing. Appalachian State University is a fun college with plenty of activities going on.

Fort Lauderdale is not popular with students.

Is Fort Lauderdale or Boone Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Fort Lauderdale
Boone

You'll find somewhat comparable public transit options in both Fort Lauderdale and Boone.

Public transit is generally limited in Fort Lauderdale. Transportation options include a water taxi and the Sun Trolley Hop-on Bus.

Public transit is mostly limited in Boone. You really need a car to make the most of your time.

Is Fort Lauderdale or Boone a more walkable city?

Fort Lauderdale
Boone

Fort Lauderdale and Boone both are high quality when exploring on foot.

Fort Lauderdale is very walkable. It is one of the most walkable Florida communities with a boardwalk and several pedestrian areas that are fun to wander around.

Boone is a very walkable coastal city. Head to King Street for the best shopping and the most pedestrian-friendly part of town.


For even more information, also check out Is Fort Lauderdale Worth Visiting? and Is Boone Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Boone or Fort Lauderdale?

How long in Fort Lauderdale or Boone?

It's fun to spend time in either Fort Lauderdale or Boone. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Fort Lauderdale due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Fort Lauderdale, and 2-4 days is enough time in Boone.

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

Couples should spend more time in Fort Lauderdale than Boone. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Fort Lauderdale that are great for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Boone than Fort Lauderdale 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 Boone.


  • How many days in Fort Lauderdale or Boone? Ideal Length of Stay
    Fort Lauderdale 3-7 
    Boone 2-4

One day in Fort Lauderdale or Boone?

In Fort Lauderdale, many people enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping that this luxury destination offers. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. Lots of people come for the beaches. This coastal city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

Boone is a small town with plenty to do. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

A weekend in Fort Lauderdale or Boone?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Fort Lauderdale. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Boone might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. A weekend here is typical. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything. A weekend is often enough time to do most activities.

Five days in Fort Lauderdale or Boone?

Fort Lauderdale is a fun place to experience. In Fort Lauderdale, many people enjoy the nightlife and food that this destination offers. Lots of people come for the beaches. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. This would be the perfect place to spend five days, as it has just the right amount of activities.

Boone is a great place to explore. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. This town offers something for everyone. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.


A week in Fort Lauderdale or Boone?

In Fort Lauderdale, many people enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling that this luxury destination offers. Plenty of people spend one week in the area when traveling. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Lots of people come for the beaches. One week is often enough time to do most activities.

Since Boone is a small town, it's easily explored when your time is limited. Hikers are also drawn to this area. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 2-Week Tours from New York City, The Best 2-Week Tours from Anchorage, The Best 2-Week Tours from San Francisco, and The Best 2-Week Tours from Los Angeles.


Which place is cheaper, Boone or Fort Lauderdale?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations. These travel costs come from the actual spending of real travelers.

  • Fort Lauderdale Prices
    USA Prices
    Boone Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Fort Lauderdale $218
    Boone $211

The average daily cost (per person) in Fort Lauderdale is $218, while the average daily cost in Boone is $211. 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 Fort Lauderdale and Boone in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Fort Lauderdale $96
    Boone $91
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Fort Lauderdale $192
    Boone $182
Compare Hotels in Fort Lauderdale and Boone

Looking for a hotel in Fort Lauderdale or Boone? 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 Fort Lauderdale


Hotels in Boone


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: Fort Lauderdale Hotel Prices and Boone Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Fort Lauderdale $51
    Boone $33

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Fort Lauderdale

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Fort Lauderdale:

  • Bimini Day Cruise from Fort Lauderdale with Round-Trip Miami Transfer: $289
  • Private Transfer from Fort Lauderdale Airport to Key Largo: $289
  • Try find your better than us ! Airport transfer in Fort Lauderdale APT-HTL (FLL): $285
  • Transfer from Fort Lauderdale (FLL or Port Everglades) to Miami.: $220
  • Private transfer from Port of Miami to Fort Lauderdale: $220
  • Transfer to Miami: $200
  • Fort Lauderdale Airport (FLL) to Port Everglades - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $180
  • Fort Lauderdale Airport(FLL) to Key Largo/ Marathon -Roundtrip Private Transfer: $178
  • Arrival Transfer: Airport FLL to Fort Lauderdale by Luxury SUV: $155
  • Private Transfer from Fort Lauderdale Airport (FLL) to Doral : $155
  • Private Transfer from Fort Lauderdale Airport (FLL) to Boca Raton: $154
  • Private Transfer from Fort Lauderdale Airport to Miami and Doral : $154

Is it cheaper to fly into Fort Lauderdale or Boone?

Prices for flights to both Boone and Fort Lauderdale 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
    Fort Lauderdale $85
    Boone $91
Typical Food Prices in Fort Lauderdale

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for food and meal costs in Fort Lauderdale:


  • Quick Lunch
    $12

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Fort Lauderdale

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

  • Fort Lauderdale Intracoastal & Dinner Cruise: $64
  • Immersive Sushi Cooking Class in Fort Lauderdale: $75
  • Intracoastal Cruise with Waterfront Dinner: $80
  • All You Can Eat BBQ Dinner and Show at Tropical Isle with Sightseeing Cruise: $80
  • Hollywood Florida Walking Food Tour : $109
  • Downtown Fort Lauderdale Dinner & Drinks Tour: $109
  • Downtown Fort Lauderdale Dinner and Drinks Tour: $114
  • Fort Lauderdale Beach Food Tour: $114
  • Fort Lauderdale, Las Olas, Around the World Food Tour Experience: $120

Typical Food Prices in Boone

Here are some examples of typical meal expenses from previous travelers to Boone:


  • Restaurant Lunch for 2
    $20

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Fort Lauderdale $15
    Boone $53

Tours and Activities in Fort Lauderdale

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

  • 1 Hour-Relaxing Private Boat Tour - Fort Lauderdale (Up to 6 Pax): $150
  • 1-Hour Interactive Pirate Cruise (arrive 30 minutes early): $35
  • 2 Hours Electric Bike Experience on Ft Lauderdale: $50
  • 2 to 6 hours Private Yacht Cruise around Fort Lauderdale: $299
  • 90-Minute Ocean Parasailing Adventure In Fort Lauderdale, FL: $100
  • 90-Minute Snorkel & Seabob Underwater Guided Reef Tour in Fort Lauderdale: $214
  • Beach Snorkeling Adventure in Lauderdale by the Sea: $45
  • Best of Fort Lauderdale Small Group Tour with Intercoastal Cruise: $199
  • Day Trip To Freeport, Grand Bahama - Tickets only: $260
  • Discover Scuba Diving Adventure Shipwreck and Coral Reef : $175
  • Don’t Miss Out – 4-Hour Slingshot Experience: $140
  • Evening Boat Cruise through Downtown Ft. Lauderdale: $50

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Fort Lauderdale $33
    Boone $26
Typical Alcohol Prices in Fort Lauderdale

Some typical examples of the costs for nightlife and alcohol in Fort Lauderdale are as follows:


  • Beer
    $7.30

Sample the Local Flavors in Fort Lauderdale

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Fort Lauderdale:

  • Fort Lauderdale Bar Crawl: $15
  • Ft. Lauderdale: Boos and Booze Haunted Pub Crawl: $30
  • Ft Lauderdale Ghosts Boos and Booze Haunted Pub Crawl: $36


When comparing the travel costs between Fort Lauderdale and Boone, we can see that Fort Lauderdale 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 Fort Lauderdale Expensive? and Is Boone Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Fort Lauderdale or Boone?

Fort Lauderdale has a larger population, and is about 10 times larger than the population of Boone. When comparing the sizes of Fort Lauderdale and Boone, 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.