A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Roanoke vs. San Diego for Families, Couples, Attractions, and Food

Should you visit Roanoke or San Diego?

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

Should I visit Roanoke or San Diego? 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.

Roanoke

Roanoke is a laid back, scenic, and outdoorsy town. Visitors also love the museums, nightlife, and hiking. See Roanoke travel costs.

San Diego

San Diego is a energetic, relaxed, and outdoorsy coastal city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. San Diego offers plenty of beauty for visitors. As this is a very quaint destination, you'll find it has a special atmosphere. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and live music. See San Diego travel costs.

Roanoke and San Diego: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Roanoke or San Diego?

Travelers will usually find more to do in San Diego than Roanoke, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. San Diego is more touristy than Roanoke and is known for its relaxed coastal atmosphere, its many kid-friendly sights, and its beautiful beaches with critter-filled tidal pools. It is also home to The San Diego Zoo. Roanoke is popular for its welcoming hospitality and convenient access to the Blue Ridge Mountains.

How is Roanoke different from San Diego?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Roanoke or San Diego?

San Diego is a great coastal city for its historical sights. Also, Roanoke is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its sights and museums.

San Diego offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. While the city is famous for it's beaches, zoos, and aquariums, don't overlook the museums and other landmarks. Popular options include the Midway Aircraft Carrier Museum, the Old Town State Historic Park, and Point Loma and Cabrillo Monument.

Roanoke is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. There are several museums and sights around town such as the Living-Coral Reef Aquarium, the Science Museum of Western Virginia, and the Taubman Museum of Art. There's also the Harrison Museum of African American Culture and even the Roanoke Pinball Museum.

Is the Food Better in Roanoke or San Diego? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

San Diego is a great coastal city for its local flavors and cuisine. However, Roanoke is not known for its local cuisine and restaurants.

San Diego has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. The city has great seafood and a diversity of cuisines. There are many casual dining options that serve informal foods like burgers or salads, but there are also award-winning fine dining restaurants with elegant atmospheres. Popular local dishes include fish tacos and California burritos.

Roanoke offers some easy restaurants to choose from. There are burger joints, pizza restaurants, and plenty of other casual eateries where you can grab a quick meal.

Is Roanoke or San Diego Better for Nightlife?

San Diego is a great coastal city for its evening party scene. Also, Roanoke is not as popular, but is still a nice town for nightlife.

The nightlife in San Diego has something for everybody. The heart of the city's nightlife scene is in the Gaslamp District, which is filled with bars, clubs, and music venues. There's a young student population that keeps the nightlife scene casual and fun.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Roanoke. There are local venues in the area that have drinks and often live music. You'll find jazz, country, rock, and bluegrass, particularly along Crooked Road in Franklin County.

Is Roanoke or San Diego Better for Music?

San Diego is a great coastal city for its music scene. However, Roanoke is not a live music destination.

San Diego has a thriving music scene. Popular venues include the House of Blues, The Belly Up, and The Shout House.

Roanoke is not a live music destination.

Is Roanoke or San Diego Better for Resorts?

San Diego is a popular place for its luxury resorts. However, Roanoke is not a resort destination.

San Diego has a few great resort options. Most people prefer to stay in hotels or VRBOs, but several popular resorts include Fairmont Grand Del Mar, Paradise Point, and the famous Hotel del Coronado.

Roanoke is not a resort destination.

Is Roanoke or San Diego Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

San Diego is a popular place for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Roanoke is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

San Diego has a few good snorkeling spots. Popular snorkeling and diving spots include La Jolla Cove, Mission Bay, and Turtle Town. The water's a bit chili, but it's still worth going for a dive or popping on a mask and snorkeling around for a bit.

Roanoke is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Roanoke or San Diego Better for Beaches?

San Diego is renowned for the beach. However, Roanoke is not a beach destination.

Travelers come from around the world to visit the beaches in San Diego. The city has great beaches with tidal pools and interesting sea life at low tide. Adults and kids alike will enjoy hitting the beach when the tides are out and looking for local critters in the tidal pools. Popular beaches in the area include La Jolla Cove Beach, Coronado Beach, and Pacific Beach.

Roanoke is not a beach destination.

Is Roanoke or San Diego Better for Hiking?

If you're looking to go hiking, Roanoke and San Diego both have superb trails.

Many visitors go to Roanoke for the hiking trails. The surrounding countryside is filled with mountain hikes. The Blue Ridge Mountains are crossed by trails that take you to waterfalls, scenic viewpoints, and through serene forest. McAfee Knob, Sharp Top Mountain, and Roaring Run Trail some of the best hikes in the area.

San Diego is a popular spot for hiking. The city is filled with parks and has tons of natural beauty. There is plenty of urban hiking in town, or you can visit more natural areas just out of town. Head to Torrey Pines State Park or Los Penasquitos Canyon Trail for some nice hikes.

Is the Shopping Better in Roanoke or San Diego?

If you're looking to go shopping, Roanoke and San Diego both offer plenty of good spots.

Roanoke has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. Market Street in Downtown Roanoke is lined with local vendors, particularly at the Historic Roanoke City Market. The town also has a mall and several shopping centers.

San Diego is a great destination for shopping. Head to Fashion Valley or Westfield UTC for some fun shopping. There are suburban shopping malls in the area as well as souvenir shops in the more touristy areas.

Is Roanoke or San Diego More Beautiful?

San Diego is a popular place for its scenery and beauty. However, Roanoke is not a destination known for its beauty.

San Diego offers plenty of beauty for visitors. Many people enjoy city's beautiful coastline and surrounding natural beauty.

Roanoke is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Roanoke or San Diego Better for Families?

San Diego is renowned for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Roanoke is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its family-friendly activities.

As it has a large number of activities for kids, San Diego is a very family-friendly destination. The city is filled with kid-friendly activities that everyone can enjoy. There's the world-class zoo, several amusement parks, the beaches, aquariums, and more. The year-round warm weather makes it easy to spend plenty of time outdoors in parks, playgrounds, and beaches where kids can stretch their legs and run around.

Roanoke is a family-friendly place to visit. The Blue Ridge Parkway is filled with kid-friendly hiking trails and fun outdoor activities. You can visit the Blue Ridge Institute & Farm Museum or Smith Mountain Lake Farm. There's also Virginia Children's Theater.

Is Roanoke or San Diego Better for Couples?

San Diego is renowned for couples. Also, Roanoke is not as popular, but is still a nice town for romance.

San Diego makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. For adventurous couples, there are many outdoor activities that you can enjoy together. The beaches offer a great playground for adults who enjoy the water and warm weather. There are also restaurants and a great nightlife in San Diego.

Roanoke is a very popular place to visit for couples. Staying at a quaint bed and breakfast, tucked into the beautiful mountain setting is the perfect romantic getaway. Nearby there are vineyards and wine cellars, as well as gardens, hikes, and other outdoor activities.

Is Roanoke or San Diego Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

For backpackers, both Roanoke and San Diego are good places to visit.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Roanoke. There are several campgrounds in the area as well as great hiking trails.

San Diego is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. Backpackers will enjoy the young vibe of the city. There are a few great hostels near the beach or in town.

Is Roanoke or San Diego Better for Students?

San Diego is renowned for its student-friendly activities. However, Roanoke is not popular with students.

Many students frequent San Diego. With its young population and many universities, international students will feel right at home in San Diego. There are also many great outdoor activities for the adventurous.

Roanoke is not popular with students.

Is Roanoke or San Diego Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Roanoke and San Diego both offer decent public transit to get you around.

Public transit is mostly limited in Roanoke. There are buses as well as a free trolley service through the downtown, but you really do need a car to get most places.

Public transit is generally limited in San Diego. The city has a trolley (light rail system) as well as a bus system. Most people depend on cars to get around, and you'll likely enjoy your trip a bit more if you have your own vehicle.

Is Roanoke or San Diego a more walkable city?

San Diego is a popular place for its ease of walking around. However, Roanoke is not known for its walkability.

San Diego is a somewhat walkable coastal city. The downtown area is walkable, but if you want to travel further, you'll need to find a different form of transportation.

Roanoke is generally not very walkable. The downtown area is the most walkable part of town, with sidewalks and more dense development styles.

For even more information, also check out Is Roanoke Worth Visiting? and Is San Diego Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in San Diego or Roanoke?

How long in Roanoke or San Diego?

In either Roanoke or San Diego, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in San Diego than Roanoke because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Roanoke, and 3-5 days is enough time in San Diego.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in San Diego than Roanoke 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 San Diego.

One day in Roanoke or San Diego?

You'll find shopping and museums around the town of Roanoke. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One day is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Roanoke has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

In San Diego, you'll find food and scuba diving and snorkeling. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. One reason most visitors come is for the beaches. This coastal city offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

A weekend in Roanoke or San Diego?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the scenic destination of Roanoke. Hikers are also drawn to this area. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this town has to offer. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from.

In San Diego, you'll find scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One reason most visitors come is for the beaches. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

Five days in Roanoke or San Diego?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and shopping when visiting the scenic town of Roanoke. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

San Diego is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that San Diego has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

A week in Roanoke or San Diego?

Roanoke is a popular choice for travelers. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. One week 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. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in San Diego. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting San Diego. One reason most visitors come is for the beaches. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. 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.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Roanoke or San Diego?

San Diego has a larger population, and is about 10 times larger than the population of Roanoke. When comparing the sizes of Roanoke and San Diego, 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.

When is the best time to visit Roanoke or San Diego?

Both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. And since both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Roanoke or San Diego in the Summer?

Both San Diego and Roanoke are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Roanoke for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to San Diego because of the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Roanoke is generally a little warmer than San Diego. Daily temperatures in Roanoke average around 79°F (26°C), and San Diego fluctuates around 71°F (22°C).

It's quite sunny in San Diego. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Roanoke. Roanoke usually receives less sunshine than San Diego during summer. Roanoke gets 273 hours of sunny skies, while San Diego receives 306 hours of full sun in the summer.

It's quite rainy in Roanoke. In July, Roanoke usually receives more rain than San Diego. Roanoke gets 4.2 inches (106 mm) of rain, while San Diego receives 0 inches (1 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Roanoke or San Diego in the Autumn?

Both San Diego and Roanoke during the autumn are popular places to visit. The autumn months attract visitors to Roanoke because of the hiking trails and the shopping scene. Furthermore, the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to San Diego this time of year.

Roanoke is cooler than San Diego in the autumn. The daily temperature in Roanoke averages around 60°F (16°C) in October, and San Diego fluctuates around 68°F (20°C).

In San Diego, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Roanoke. In the autumn, Roanoke often gets less sunshine than San Diego. Roanoke gets 210 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while San Diego receives 244 hours of full sun.

Roanoke usually gets more rain in October than San Diego. Roanoke gets 3.7 inches (94 mm) of rain, while San Diego receives 0.4 inches (9 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Roanoke or San Diego in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Roanoke and San Diego. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Roanoke this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to San Diego for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

It's quite cold in Roanoke in the winter. In the winter, Roanoke is much colder than San Diego. Typically, the winter temperatures in Roanoke in January average around 38°F (3°C), and San Diego averages at about 57°F (14°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in San Diego this time of the year. Roanoke usually receives less sunshine than San Diego during winter. Roanoke gets 165 hours of sunny skies, while San Diego receives 239 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Roanoke usually receives more rain than San Diego. Roanoke gets 2.9 inches (73 mm) of rain, while San Diego receives 1.8 inches (46 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Roanoke or San Diego in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Roanoke as well as San Diego. Additionally, many visitors come to San Diego in the spring for the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty.

In April, Roanoke is generally around the same temperature as San Diego. Daily temperatures in Roanoke average around 59°F (15°C), and San Diego fluctuates around 62°F (17°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in San Diego. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Roanoke this time of the year. In the spring, Roanoke often gets less sunshine than San Diego. Roanoke gets 246 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while San Diego receives 277 hours of full sun.

Roanoke usually gets more rain in April than San Diego. Roanoke gets 3.1 inches (79 mm) of rain, while San Diego receives 0.8 inches (20 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for San Diego and Roanoke