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

Should you visit Fort Lauderdale or Chimney Rock and Lake Lure?

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 Chimney Rock and Lake Lure. 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 luxury, high energy, and scenic coastal city. With stunning beauty, Fort Lauderdale attracts visitors from all around. Other popular activities here include nightlife, food, and scuba diving and snorkeling. See Fort Lauderdale travel costs.

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. It's also known for hiking. See Chimney Rock and Lake Lure travel costs.

Fort Lauderdale and Chimney Rock and Lake Lure: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Nice resorts
  • Good scuba and snorkeling destination
  • Popular beach
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Very walkable
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to the Local Beaches
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with backpackers
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for food
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less walkable


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

Visitors will usually find more to do in Fort Lauderdale than Chimney Rock and Lake Lure, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Fort Lauderdale is better known for its food, nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, shopping, and impressive beauty, while Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is more popular for its museums and attractions and hiking. Fort Lauderdale is more touristy than Chimney Rock and Lake Lure and is known for its canals, beaches, walkable waterfront, and luxury resorts. Also, Fort Lauderdale is famous for The Local Beaches. Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is well known for its beautiful views and fun outdoor activities.

How is Fort Lauderdale different from Chimney Rock and Lake Lure?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Fort Lauderdale
Chimney Rock and Lake Lure

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is a recreation area with a few options for its museums and landmarks. However, Fort Lauderdale does not have museums and landmarks.

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.

Fort Lauderdale does not have museums and landmarks.


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

Fort Lauderdale
Chimney Rock and Lake Lure

Fort Lauderdale 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 Fort Lauderdale is an experience not to be missed. 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.

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 Fort Lauderdale or Chimney Rock and Lake Lure Better for Nightlife?

Fort Lauderdale
Chimney Rock and Lake Lure

Fort Lauderdale 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 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.

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure doesn't have the most active nightlife scene. Most people head into nearby Asheville for the best nightlife.

Is Fort Lauderdale or Chimney Rock and Lake Lure Better for Resorts?

Fort Lauderdale
Chimney Rock and Lake Lure

Fort Lauderdale is an amazing coastal city to visit for its resorts. However, Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is not a resort destination.

Fort Lauderdale is a world class resort vacation destination. 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.

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is not a resort destination.


Is Fort Lauderdale or Chimney Rock and Lake Lure Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Fort Lauderdale
Chimney Rock and Lake Lure

Fort Lauderdale is a coastal city with good options for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

It's fun to get in the water and check out the local marine life 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.

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Fort Lauderdale or Chimney Rock and Lake Lure Better for Beaches?

Fort Lauderdale
Chimney Rock and Lake Lure

Fort Lauderdale is an amazing coastal city to visit for the beach. However, Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is not a beach destination.

Fort Lauderdale is considered to be a world-class beach 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.

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is not a beach destination.

Is Fort Lauderdale or Chimney Rock and Lake Lure Better for Hiking?

Fort Lauderdale
Chimney Rock and Lake Lure

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure 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 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.

Fort Lauderdale is not a hiking destination.


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

Fort Lauderdale
Chimney Rock and Lake Lure

Fort Lauderdale is a coastal 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 Fort Lauderdale to go shopping. For interesting local boutiques head to Las Olas Boulevard and for name brand stores you'll want to visit Sawgrass Mills Mall.

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 Fort Lauderdale or Chimney Rock and Lake Lure More Beautiful?

Fort Lauderdale
Chimney Rock and Lake Lure

Fort Lauderdale is a great destination for its scenery and beauty. Also, Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is still popular, but not quite as popular for its scenery and beauty.

With stunning beauty, Fort Lauderdale attracts visitors from all around. Seven miles of scenic coastline with a boardwalk to explore make this a beautiful Florida beach destination.

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 Fort Lauderdale or Chimney Rock and Lake Lure Better for Families?

Fort Lauderdale
Chimney Rock and Lake Lure

Both Fort Lauderdale and Chimney Rock and Lake Lure are very good 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, Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is very family-friendly. 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.


Is Fort Lauderdale or Chimney Rock and Lake Lure Better for Couples?

Fort Lauderdale
Chimney Rock and Lake Lure

Fort Lauderdale is an amazing coastal city to visit for couples. Also, Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is still popular, but not quite as popular for romance.

Fort Lauderdale is a great coastal city for couples, as it 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.

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is a great coastal city 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 Fort Lauderdale or Chimney Rock and Lake Lure Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Fort Lauderdale
Chimney Rock and Lake Lure

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

Backpackers come from all over to 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.

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

Fort Lauderdale
Chimney Rock and Lake Lure

Fort Lauderdale is a coastal city 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 Fort Lauderdale. Transportation options include a water taxi and the Sun Trolley Hop-on Bus.

Public transit is quite limited in Chimney Rock and Lake Lure. There is limited public transit in the area.


Is Fort Lauderdale or Chimney Rock and Lake Lure a more walkable city?

Fort Lauderdale
Chimney Rock and Lake Lure

Fort Lauderdale 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.

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

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

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

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

How long in Fort Lauderdale or Chimney Rock and Lake Lure?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Fort Lauderdale and Chimney Rock and Lake Lure. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Fort Lauderdale than in Chimney Rock and Lake Lure. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Fort Lauderdale, and 1-3 days is enough time in Chimney Rock and Lake Lure.

Families should spend more time in Fort Lauderdale than Chimney Rock and Lake Lure. 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 Chimney Rock and Lake Lure. 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 Fort Lauderdale 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 Fort Lauderdale.


  • How many days in Fort Lauderdale or Chimney Rock and Lake Lure? Ideal Length of Stay
    Fort Lauderdale 3-7 
    Chimney Rock and Lake Lure 1-3

One day in Fort Lauderdale or Chimney Rock and Lake Lure?

In Fort Lauderdale, many people enjoy the shopping and nightlife that this scenic destination offers. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Lots of people come for the beaches. Most people come for the beaches. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

The active destination of Chimney Rock and Lake Lure offers . 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 enough time to experience most activities.

A weekend in Fort Lauderdale or Chimney Rock and Lake Lure?

In Fort Lauderdale, many people enjoy the nightlife and food that this beautiful destination offers. It's also a relaxing resort destination. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything.

The recreation area of Chimney Rock and Lake Lure offers . 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 Chimney Rock and Lake Lure?

In Fort Lauderdale, many people enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling that this luxury destination offers. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. This is a popular place to visit for five days.Five days is often enough time to do most activities. This coastal city offers something for everyone.

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

A week in Fort Lauderdale or Chimney Rock and Lake Lure?

In Fort Lauderdale, many people enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping that this beautiful coastal city offers. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. If you have one week, this coastal city makes for a great vacation. It's also a great beach destination, too. Lots of people come for the beaches. Because of this, one week is usually enough time for a trip here.

Many people enjoy the when visiting Chimney Rock and Lake Lure. 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, Chimney Rock and Lake Lure 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
    Chimney Rock and Lake Lure Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Fort Lauderdale $218
    Chimney Rock and Lake Lure $234

The average daily cost (per person) in Fort Lauderdale is $218, while the average daily cost in Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is $234. 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 Chimney Rock and Lake Lure in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Fort Lauderdale $96
    Chimney Rock and Lake Lure $117
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Fort Lauderdale $192
    Chimney Rock and Lake Lure $234
Compare Hotels in Fort Lauderdale and Chimney Rock and Lake Lure

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


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.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Fort Lauderdale $51
    Chimney Rock and Lake Lure $35

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Fort Lauderdale

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Fort Lauderdale:

  • Arrival Private Transfer: Airport FLL to Fort Lauderdale in Business Car: $107
  • Arrival Private Transfer: Airport FLL to Fort Lauderdale in Luxury SUV: $119
  • Arrival Private Transfer: Airport FLL to Hollywood Beach in Business Car : $78
  • Arrival Private Transfer: Airport FLL to Hollywood Beach in Luxury SUV: $113
  • Arrival Transfer: Airport FLL to Fort Lauderdale by Luxury SUV: $155
  • Bimini Day Cruise from Fort Lauderdale with Round-Trip Miami Transfer: $289
  • Boca Raton Luxury SUV Transfer to/from Fort Lauderdale Airport: $55
  • Boynton Beach to Fort Lauderdale Airport (FLL) - Departure Private Transfer: $76
  • Delray Beach to Fort Lauderdale Airport (FLL) - Departure Private Transfer: $76
  • Departure Private Transfer: Fort Lauderdale to Airport FLL in Luxury SUV: $119
  • Fort Lauderdale Airport (FLL) to Boca Raton - Arrival Private Transfer: $89
  • Fort Lauderdale Airport (FLL) to Boynton Beach - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $151

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

Prices for flights to both Chimney Rock and Lake Lure 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
    Chimney Rock and Lake Lure $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

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Fort Lauderdale $15
    Chimney Rock and Lake Lure $34

Tours and Activities in Fort Lauderdale

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

  • Unique Scavenger Hunt Experience in Pembroke Pines by Wacky Walks: $10
  • Fort Lauderdale Riverwalk Self-guided Audio Walking Tour: $11
  • Scavenger Hunt Adventure in Pompano Beach by Zombie Scavengers: $20
  • 1-Hour Family Pirate Adventure Cruise: $22
  • Fort Lauderdale Fallen Frights and Fury Ghost Tour: $24
  • Private BLU3 Nomad Scuba Demo Experience in Deerfield: $25
  • Holiday Mansion Lights Boat Tour: $30
  • Florida Everglades Airboat Adventure and Wildlife Encounter: $31
  • Jungle Queen Riverboat 90-Minute Narrated Sightseeing Cruise in Fort Lauderdale: $31
  • VENICE OF AMERICA TOUR!! Best of Fort Lauderdale over 30 years!!!: $32
  • Fort Lauderdale Fallen Frights and Fury Ghost Tour: $32
  • Sea Rocket Intracoastal Holiday Lights Cruise in Fort Lauderdale: $33

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Fort Lauderdale $33
    Chimney Rock and Lake Lure $21
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 Chimney Rock and Lake Lure, 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 Fort Lauderdale Expensive? and Is Chimney Rock and Lake Lure Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Fort Lauderdale or Chimney Rock and Lake Lure?

Fort Lauderdale has a larger population, and is about 1030 times larger than the population of Chimney Rock and Lake Lure. When comparing the sizes of Fort Lauderdale and Chimney Rock and Lake Lure, 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.