A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Mazatlan vs. Boone for Attractions, Food, Nightlife, and Families

Should you visit Mazatlan or Boone?

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

Should I visit Mazatlan or Boone? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

Mazatlan

Mazatlan is a authentic, historical, and cultural city. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food. See Mazatlan 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. The beauty of Boone is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and skiing. See Boone travel costs.

Mazatlan and Boone: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Mazatlan or Boone?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Mazatlan. Although Mazatlan and Boone are both popular with visitors, Mazatlan has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Mazatlan is more popular for its museums and attractions, food, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and historical sights, while Boone is known for its skiing, nightlife, hiking, shopping, small town charm, and impressive beauty. Boone is more touristy than Mazatlan and is popular for its proximity to great hiking, skiing, and small town charm. Mazatlan is popular for its historic center, authenticity, and surfing areas. It is also home to the Malecon.

How is Mazatlan different from Boone?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Mazatlan or Boone Better for Skiing?

Boone is well known for winter skiing. However, Mazatlan is not a skiing destination.

People head to Boone specifically to take advantage of the area's skiing and 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.

Mazatlan is not a skiing destination.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Mazatlan or Boone?

Mazatlan is a great city for its historical sights. Also, Boone is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its sights and museums.

Many visitors head to Mazatlan specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. There are colonial buildings around the Centro Historico. You should also check out the Historic Cathedral and the Angela Peralta Theater.

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.

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

Mazatlan is a great 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.

Mazatlan has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. Stewed meats and shrimp are a big part of the cuisine here. Many recipes have a little bit of spice. The restaurants around town are authentic and local, making for a great dining experience.

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 Mazatlan or Boone Better for Nightlife?

Boone is well known for nightlife and partying. Also, Mazatlan is still popular, but not quite as popular for its evening party scene.

Boone is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. 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.

If you're looking for night time activities Mazatlan has a few options to choose from. There are plenty of bars and clubs around town, particularly along the beach. Like anywhere else, remember to stay cautious late at night around town. This is considered to be one of the less safe parts of Mexico.

Is Mazatlan or Boone Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Mazatlan 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 Mazatlan. Most of the diving takes place around the Pajaros, Venados and Lobos islands. This is where you'll see the most tropical fish.

Boone is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Mazatlan or Boone Better for Beaches?

Mazatlan is a great city for the beach. However, Boone is not a beach destination.

Mazatlan is a very popular place to visit for its beaches. There are many stretches of beach around town. Most notable is the 13 miles that run along Malecon where there's a boardwalk. Surfing is also popular in the area.

Boone is not a beach destination.

Is Mazatlan or Boone Better for its Old Town?

Mazatlan is a great city for its historic old town charm. However, Boone does not have a historic old town.

There is a nice variety of sights in the old town of Mazatlan. It's a historic port city with a charming colonial old town.

Boone does not have a historic old town.

Is Mazatlan or Boone Better for Hiking?

Boone is well known for its hiking experiences. However, Mazatlan 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.

Mazatlan is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Mazatlan or Boone?

Boone is well known for its shopping opportunities. Also, Mazatlan is still popular, but not quite as popular for its shopping areas.

Boone is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. 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.

Mazatlan has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. There are local shops, big box stores, and souvenir vendors where you can pick up anything you may need or items to commemorate your trip.

Is Mazatlan or Boone More Beautiful?

Boone is well known for its scenery and beauty. However, Mazatlan is not a destination known for its beauty.

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.

Mazatlan is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Mazatlan or Boone Better for Families?

Boone is well known for its family-friendly activities. Also, Mazatlan is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

Boone is a very kid-friendly town. 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.

Mazatlan offers lots of family activities. Kids will enjoy the all-inclusive resorts and the waterfront setting. There are also many cultural opportunities such as markets, history, and shows. The food is very kid-friendly as well.

Is Mazatlan or Boone Better for Couples?

Boone is well known for its romantic activities. Also, Mazatlan is still popular, but not quite as popular for couples.

Couples visit Boone frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. 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.

Mazatlan is a good city for couples to visit. The resorts are romantic and the beaches are stunning. If you're looking for an idyllic escape that also has culture, authenticity, and great food, then this is your spot.

Is Mazatlan or Boone Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Mazatlan is a great city for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Boone is not as popular, but is still a nice town for backpackers.

Plenty of budget travelers and backpackers visit Mazatlan. The laid back atmosphere makes this a great stopover for backpackers who want to experience the Mexican culture. Stick to the touristy areas if possible.

It's common for backpackers to 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.

Is Mazatlan or Boone Better for Students?

Boone is a world-class destination for students. However, Mazatlan is not popular with students.

Many students frequent Boone. 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.

Mazatlan is not popular with students.

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

Mazatlan is very good for times when you don't have a car. However, Boone is not known for its public transit.

While Mazatlan offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There are city buses around town.

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

Is Mazatlan or Boone a more walkable city?

Mazatlan and Boone both are great when exploring on foot.

Mazatlan is a very walkable city. The city is relatively walkable.

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

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

Should I spend more time in Boone or Mazatlan?

How long in Mazatlan or Boone?

It's fun to spend time in either Mazatlan or Boone. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Mazatlan due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 3-5 days is a good amount of time for Mazatlan, and 2-4 days is enough time in Boone.

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

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

One day in Mazatlan or Boone?

In Mazatlan, many people enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling that this cultural destination offers. It's also a great beach destination, too. This 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 where visitors enjoy the museums and skiing. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

A weekend in Mazatlan or Boone?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Mazatlan. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. 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 is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this town makes for a great vacation. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Boone, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Mazatlan or Boone?

Mazatlan is a fun place to experience. In Mazatlan, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this destination offers. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. This would be the perfect place to spend five days, as it has just the right amount of activities.

Boone is a popular choice for travelers. Five days is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A week in Mazatlan or Boone?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the cultural destination of Mazatlan. Most people come for the beaches. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Boone is a great place to explore. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This town offers something for everyone.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Food and Culinary Tours in Mexico, The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Mexico, The Best Sightseeing Tours in United States of America, and The Best Cruise Tours and Packages in United States of America.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Mazatlan and Boone, we can see that Boone is more expensive. And not only is Mazatlan much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Mazatlan would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Mazatlan and be able to afford a more luxurious travel style by staying in nicer hotels, eating at more expensive restaurants, taking tours, and experiencing more activities. The same level of travel in Boone would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Boone than you might in Mazatlan.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Mazatlan Expensive? and Is Boone Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Mazatlan or Boone?

Mazatlan has a larger population, and is about 30 times larger than the population of Boone. When comparing the sizes of Mazatlan 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.