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

Should you visit Orlando or Chimney Rock and Lake Lure?

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

Should I visit Orlando or Chimney Rock and Lake Lure? 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.

Orlando

Orlando is a active, family-friendly, and entertaining city. Other popular activities here include shopping, theater, and nightlife. See Orlando 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. Other reasons to visit include hiking. See Chimney Rock and Lake Lure travel costs.

Orlando and Chimney Rock and Lake Lure: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Numerous theater shows
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Nice resorts
  • Fun shopping
  • Popular at Christmas
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for students
  • Home to Disney World, Universal Studios, and the city's many amusement parks
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with backpackers
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Good for hiking
  • Known for its beauty
  • 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 popular for shopping


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

Visitors will usually find more to do in Orlando than Chimney Rock and Lake Lure, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Orlando is better known for its theatre productions, food, nightlife, resorts, and shopping, while Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is more popular for its museums and attractions, hiking, and impressive beauty. Orlando is more touristy than Chimney Rock and Lake Lure and is popular for being the home of Walt Disney World, Universal Orlando, and many other theme parks and family-friendly activities. Also, Orlando is famous for Disney World, Universal Studios, and the city's many amusement parks. Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is well known for its beautiful views and fun outdoor activities.

How is Orlando 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 Orlando. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

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

Orlando
Chimney Rock and Lake Lure

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is adequate for its historical sights. However, Orlando 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.

Orlando does not have museums and landmarks.


Is Orlando or Chimney Rock and Lake Lure Better for Theater?

Orlando
Chimney Rock and Lake Lure

Orlando is a city with good options for its shows and theatre. However, Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is not a theatre destination.

With some theater and performance venues, you might want to see a show in Orlando. The city has a number of local theaters that are fun to explore. As home to Disney World and Universal Studios, there are also a number of shows available that are affiliated with the parks.

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is not a theatre destination.

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

Orlando
Chimney Rock and Lake Lure

Orlando 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 Orlando is an experience not to be missed. There are a diversity of restaurants on the Disney grounds and nearby. You'll also find many restaurants at Universal CityWalk and Disney Springs. Food can be expensive, and the quality can vary dramatically. Many people enjoy going to dinner shows as well. Restaurants can be challenging also, as reservations must be made months in advance.

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 Orlando or Chimney Rock and Lake Lure Better for Nightlife?

Orlando
Chimney Rock and Lake Lure

Orlando is a city with good options for its evening party scene. However, Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is a recreation area with minimal options for nightlife.

Orlando has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. If you need a break from the kids, you'll find some of the best nightlife around Orlando at Disney Springs, Wall Street Plaza and Universal CityWalk.

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


Is Orlando or Chimney Rock and Lake Lure Better for Resorts?

Orlando
Chimney Rock and Lake Lure

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

Orlando is a world class resort vacation destination. Disney World is famous for its many iconic resorts. Some of the most popular are the Animal Kingdom Lodge, Port Orleans Resort, and the Grand Floridian Resort. There are also many resorts that aren't affiliated with the major theme parks. These tend to be more affordable, but transportation options to and from the park are limited. You'll also miss out on the perks that come with staying at a theme park resort.

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is not a resort destination.

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

Orlando
Chimney Rock and Lake Lure

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is great for hiking. However, Orlando is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors go to Chimney Rock and Lake Lure for the hiking trails. 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.

Orlando is not a hiking destination.

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

Orlando
Chimney Rock and Lake Lure

Orlando 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 Orlando. Shopping is a dream for any Disney enthusiast. There are countless malls and shops, both on and off the Disney grounds, that sell all of the Disney paraphernalia. Disney Springs and Universal CityWalk are the most famous areas. During the evenings, these areas can be very crowded, but during the day they're less popular as most people are at the theme parks.

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 Orlando or Chimney Rock and Lake Lure More Beautiful?

Orlando
Chimney Rock and Lake Lure

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is a popular place for its scenery and beauty. However, Orlando is not a destination known for its beauty.

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.

Orlando is not a destination known for its beauty.

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

Orlando
Chimney Rock and Lake Lure

Orlando is an amazing city to visit for its family-friendly activities. Also, Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

Orlando is an extremely popular city to visit for families. Known as a theme park capital, here you'll find the iconic Disney World, as well as Universal Studios, SeaWorld and many more. While most people spend their vacation at the Disney or Universal resorts, there is also an endless supply of less mainstream parks and activities in the area.

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.

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

Orlando
Chimney Rock and Lake Lure

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is great for romance. Also, Orlando is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its romantic activities.

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.

Orlando makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. While most people visit the area with family, there is a niche crowd that enjoys honeymooning or vacationing here as a couple. There are many beautiful restaurants and interesting activities that couples can enjoy together. This is the perfect trip for fun loving couples who don't take themselves to seriously.


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

Orlando
Chimney Rock and Lake Lure

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is great for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Orlando is not a good destination for backpackers.

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.

Orlando is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. It's not exactly a backpacker destination, but there are a surprising number of cheap motels that aren't affiliated with the major parks.

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

Orlando
Chimney Rock and Lake Lure

Orlando is a city with good options for students. However, Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is not popular with students.

Orlando is popular with students. Most people don't think about education when they think about Orlando, but there are actually a diversity of internships and opportunities for students to learn in a fun setting.

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is not popular with students.

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

Orlando
Chimney Rock and Lake Lure

Orlando is a 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 Orlando. If you're staying at a Disney Property, there is excellent transportation around the complex, but otherwise, a car is essential.

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


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

Orlando
Chimney Rock and Lake Lure

Neither Orlando or Chimney Rock and Lake Lure are walkable places.

Orlando is not a very walkable city. The city is sprawling, so unless you stay on the Disney grounds, it's best to rent a car.

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is not a walkable 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 Orlando Worth Visiting? and Is Chimney Rock and Lake Lure Worth Visiting?.

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

How long in Orlando or Chimney Rock and Lake Lure?

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

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Chimney Rock and Lake Lure than Orlando 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 Chimney Rock and Lake Lure.


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

One day in Orlando or Chimney Rock and Lake Lure?

In Orlando, many people enjoy the theater and nightlife that this family-friendly destination offers. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

In Chimney Rock and Lake Lure, you'll find . Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. This recreation area offers something for everyone. This would be the perfect place to spend one day, as it has just the right amount of activities.

A weekend in Orlando or Chimney Rock and Lake Lure?

The destination of Orlando offers nightlife and food. It's also a relaxing resort destination. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything. A weekend may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

In Chimney Rock and Lake Lure, you'll find . The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Chimney Rock and Lake Lure has to offer.


Five days in Orlando or Chimney Rock and Lake Lure?

Many people enjoy the food and shopping when visiting Orlando. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. This city offers something for everyone.

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is a great place to explore. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

A week in Orlando or Chimney Rock and Lake Lure?

Travelers enjoy the shopping and theater when visiting the city of Orlando. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Chimney Rock and Lake Lure. Many people enjoy the when visiting Chimney Rock and Lake Lure. 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.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Train & Rail Tours in United States of America, The Best Sightseeing Tours in United States of America, The Best Cruise Tours and Packages in United States of America, and The Best Cultural Tours in United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Chimney Rock and Lake Lure or Orlando?

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

  • Orlando Prices
    USA Prices
    Chimney Rock and Lake Lure Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Orlando $368
    Chimney Rock and Lake Lure $234

The average daily cost (per person) in Orlando is $368, 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 Orlando and Chimney Rock and Lake Lure in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Orlando $154
    Chimney Rock and Lake Lure $117
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Orlando $308
    Chimney Rock and Lake Lure $234
Compare Hotels in Orlando and Chimney Rock and Lake Lure

Looking for a hotel in Orlando 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 Orlando


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: Orlando Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Orlando $66
    Chimney Rock and Lake Lure $35
Typical Local Transportation Prices in Orlando

Some typical examples of transportation costs in Orlando are as follows:


  • Parking
    $14
  • Taxi Ride
    $45

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Orlando

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

  • Airport to Port Canaveral Suv Transfer up to 6 pax One Way: $187
  • Disney Hotels Private Van Transfer to/from Orlando Intl Airport : $55
  • Private Transfer from Orlando Airport to Cocoa Port Canaveral: $215
  • 14 Pax Van Port Transfer TO or FROM Orlando International Airport: $245
  • Airport Transfer Service in Orlando Hotel to Airport (MCO): $53
  • Arrival Private Transfer: Orlando Airport MCO to Orlando in Business Car: $102
  • Arrival Transfer: Orlando Airport MCO to Orlando by Luxury SUV: $118
  • Canaveral Cruise Port to Orlando Airport (MCO) - Departure Private Transfer: $115
  • Canaveral Cruise Port to Orlando Airport (MCO)-Departure Transfer: $95
  • Departure Private Transfer: Orlando to Orlando Airport MCO in Business Car: $101
  • Departure Transfer: Orlando to Orlando Airport MCO by Luxury SUV: $119
  • Hotel Transfer to Cruise Ships Port Canaveral : $140

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

Prices for flights to both Chimney Rock and Lake Lure and Orlando 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
    Orlando $113
    Chimney Rock and Lake Lure $91
Typical Food Prices in Orlando

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


  • Lunch for Two at Epcot
    $29

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Orlando

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

  • The Outta Control Magic Comedy Dinner Show: $39
  • Italian Buffet Dinner Cruise Aboard the Barbara Lee Paddlewheeler: $40
  • Flavors of ICON Park Food Tour: $40
  • St. Johns River Lunch and Dinner Cruises in Sanford, Florida: $43
  • Orlando Polynesian Fire Luau and Dinner Show Experience: $75
  • Immersive Pasta Making Cooking Class: $75
  • Señor Frogs Lunch / Dinner Package: $75
  • Pasta Making Cooking Class With Local Chef in Orlando: $75
  • Sushi Making Cooking Class at a Local Brewery in Orlando: $75
  • Pirates Adventure Dinner Show with Drinks: $80
  • Medieval Times Dinner Show in Orlando: $80
  • Speakeasy Murder Mystery Dinner Show in Orlando: $82

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Orlando $204
    Chimney Rock and Lake Lure $34
Typical Entertainment Prices in Orlando

For Orlando, here are some examples of average entertainment and activity prices from previous travelers:


  • Universal Studios for Two
    $110

Tours and Activities in Orlando

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Orlando.

  • Ghost Hunt in Quest Experience: $7.16
  • Scavenger Hunt Adventure in Orlando by Operation City Quest: $10
  • 7-D Dark Ride Entry Ticket: $12
  • Orlando Area 5 Day Self Guided Disney Save Tour & More: $12
  • SelfGuided Scavenger Hunt:Feel the Adventure Breeze at WinterPark: $12
  • Skip the Line: Museum of Military History Ticket: $12
  • Feel the Adventure Breeze at Winter Park Scavenger Hunt: $15
  • Orlando Art Walk an Interactive Walking Tour: $15
  • Orlando Audio Tour Adventure: $15
  • Old Town Entertainment District Attraction Tickets: $15
  • Orlando City Pride- National Women's Soccer League Tickets: $18
  • Bonanza Golf Entry Ticket in Orlando: $18

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Orlando $30
    Chimney Rock and Lake Lure $21

Sample the Local Flavors in Orlando

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Orlando:

  • Orlando Bar Crawl: Orlando's Magical Nightlife Bar Crawl: $15
  • Orlando Haunts Boos and Booze Haunted Pub Crawl: $27
  • Orlando Haunts Boos and Booze Haunted Pub Crawl: $30
  • Caribbean Moonshine Distillery Tour and Tasting: $40
  • Sanford’s Haunted Brewery Tour: $43
  • Brews and Bites Brewery Walking Tour: $75
  • 2-Hour Sushi Making Class at a Local Brewery: $75
  • Pontoon Pub Crawl, 5 Lakeside Pubs and Restaurants Visit by Boat: $90
  • Happy Hour Downtown Pub Crawl: $139
  • Ghost Tour and Pub Crawl: $139
  • Chef's Table and Wine Tasting Tour: $300


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Orlando and Chimney Rock and Lake Lure, we can see that Orlando is more expensive. And not only is Chimney Rock and Lake Lure much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Chimney Rock and Lake Lure would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Chimney Rock and Lake Lure 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 Orlando would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Orlando than you might in Chimney Rock and Lake Lure.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Orlando Expensive? and Is Chimney Rock and Lake Lure Expensive?.


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

Orlando has a larger population, and is about 1250 times larger than the population of Chimney Rock and Lake Lure. When comparing the sizes of Orlando 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.