A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Saint Simons vs. Asheville for Food, Nightlife, Hiking, and Families

Should you visit Saint Simons or Asheville?

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

Should I visit Saint Simons or Asheville? 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.

Saint Simons

Saint Simons is a laid back, scenic, and relaxing island. As this is a charming small town, visitors also come to explore the sights and local activities. Saint Simons is a beautiful place to visit, too. And you can't forget about the hiking, shopping, and food. See Saint Simons travel costs.

Asheville

Asheville is a progressive, open-minded, and eclectic mountain town. Asheville is a gorgeous place to visit. This is a quaint and attractive place to visit, too. It's also known for food, hiking, and shopping. See Asheville travel costs.

Saint Simons and Asheville: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Saint Simons or Asheville?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Asheville. Although Saint Simons and Asheville are popular destinations, Asheville has more sights and attractions for tourists. Asheville is very popular for its nightlife, music, historical sights, hiking, christmas markets, and quaint atmosphere, while Saint Simons attracts visitors for its museums and attractions, beaches, and small town charm. Saint Simons is more touristy than Asheville and is known for its beaches, charter fishing, and golf courses. Asheville is famous for its fall foliage, artsy downtown, and local North Carolina barbecue. It is also well known for The Biltmore Estate.

How is Saint Simons different from Asheville?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Saint Simons or Asheville?

Saint Simons is a island with a few options for its museums and landmarks. However, Asheville does not have museums and landmarks.

Saint Simons offers a handful of options for museums and historical sights. St. Simons Lighthouse is a highlight for many visitors. There's a maritime museum attached to the lighthouse as well. Fort Frederica National Monument is another historic site that is worth a visit.

Asheville does not have museums and landmarks.

Is the Food Better in Saint Simons or Asheville? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Dining out at restaurants in both Saint Simons and Asheville can be an enjoyable experience.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Saint Simons makes for a great culinary experience. There are more than 70 restaurants on the island that range from cafes to fine dining. You can enjoy an eggs benedict for brunch, crab cakes for lunch, and shrimp and grits for dinner. Many restaurants take advantage of the mild climate by offering outdoor seating. There are also several dessert places with ice cream or donuts.

Asheville has a huge number of terrific restaurants. Downtown Asheville is filled with local restaurants that serve everything from brunch to late night snacks. There are many vegan and vegetarian options as well as a number of international restaurants. Popular local dishes include North Carolina barbeque and country ham biscuits.

Is Saint Simons or Asheville Better for Nightlife?

Asheville is a great destination for nightlife. However, Saint Simons is a island with minimal options for nightlife and partying.

The people in Asheville know how to have a good time. The city has a fun and eclectic nightlife scene that centers around the city's breweries and live music venues.

Saint Simons doesn't have the most active nightlife scene. There are several family-friendly bars with laid back atmospheres around town, but if you're looking for a wild night out, there aren't a lot of places to go.

Is Saint Simons or Asheville Better for Music?

Asheville is a great destination for live music. However, Saint Simons is not a live music destination.

Asheville has become a hotbed of musicians and artists. The city has grown into a world famous music destination that holds true to its mountain roots and independent artists.

Saint Simons is not a live music destination.

Is Saint Simons or Asheville Better for Resorts?

Saint Simons and Asheville offer a relatively similar set of nice luxury resort options.

Saint Simons has a handful of resorts to choose from. There are a handful of nice resorts with pools and beachfront settings.

With a selection of resorts, Asheville makes a nice vacation spot. The most famous resorts in the area are the Biltmore Estate and the Grove Park Inn. Both offer luxury restaurants and beautiful grounds that are particularly nice during the holidays.

Is Saint Simons or Asheville Better for Beaches?

Saint Simons is well known for the beach. However, Asheville is not a beach destination.

Many people visit Saint Simons for it's beautiful beaches. There's golden sand and a beautiful setting. Visitors enjoy swimming or walking along the coastline. You'll also find piers and playgrounds. East Beach is one of the most popular.

Asheville is not a beach destination.

Is Saint Simons or Asheville Better for its Old Town?

Asheville is a mountain town with a few options for its historic old town. However, Saint Simons does not have a historic old town.

Asheville is a good place to visit the old town. Downtown Asheville maintains much of its historic vibe, but it's smaller than some of the more notable old cities around the country.

Saint Simons does not have a historic old town.

Is Saint Simons or Asheville Better for Hiking?

Asheville is a great destination for its hiking experiences. Also, Saint Simons is still popular, but not quite as popular for hiking.

You'll find a nice variety of hiking trails around Asheville. Just outside of town are many great hikes to waterfalls or through the mountains. The hikes range in skill level and length but many pass through local forests or along the beautiful skyline.

Many people include a hike when visiting Saint Simons. There are several parks and natural areas where you can enjoy a walk in nature. Cannon's Point Preserve has a nice trail system. Other trails on the island include John Gilbert Nature Trail, Earth Day Nature Trail, and Wanderer Memorial Trail.

Is the Shopping Better in Saint Simons or Asheville?

Shopping is a popular activity in both Asheville and Saint Simons.

Saint Simons is an extremely popular place for shoppers. You'll find a good concentration of gift shops and clothing boutiques on the island. Antiquing is also popular. Head to Pier Village for a nice mix of shops.

Asheville is well-known for its shopping. The city has many local shops that sell local crafts and independent art. The downtown area is filled with art vendors and you'll find the greatest concentration of shopping along the pedestrian-friendly Lexington Avenue.

Is Saint Simons or Asheville More Beautiful?

Saint Simons and Asheville both are comparable with their nice scenery and beauty.

Saint Simons is a gorgeous place to visit. Beautiful beaches and live oaks with Spanish moss give the island a southern charm.

Asheville is a beautiful place to visit, too. With the surrounding mountains and the charming town, the area is filled with natural beauty.

Is Saint Simons or Asheville Better for Families?

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Saint Simons or Asheville.

Saint Simons is a very family-friendly place to visit. The beaches are kid-friendly and there are many family-friendly restaurants in town. There's also the St. Simons Lighthouse, minigolf, and kayaking, as well as Neptune Park Fun Zone.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Asheville is very family-friendly. With its beautiful hiking, interesting nature centers, and outdoor adventure activities, this mountain town makes a great kid-friendly destination. There are outdoor adventure parks where kids can zipline or climb. There are also hands on farms and orchards for fruit-picking.

Is Saint Simons or Asheville Better for Couples?

With fun activities for couples, both Saint Simons and Asheville make for a superb place to visit.

Couples visit Saint Simons frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. There are romantic restaurants, beautiful beaches, and nice hotels. Sunset walks on the beach or a round of golf all make this a favorite couple's destination.

Asheville is a great island if you're traveling as a couple. Couples enjoy exploring the beautiful Biltmore Estates or visiting the spa at the Grove Park Inn. The quaint town makes a great honeymoon destination or a nice romantic getaway. There are luxury hotels or intimate bed and breakfasts that offer different options for couples on a romantic trip.

Is Saint Simons or Asheville Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Asheville is a great destination for backpackers. However, Saint Simons is a island with minimal options for backpackers and budget travelers.

Backpackers come from all over to visit Asheville. The town has an eclectic vibe that backpackers appreciate. There are a few good hostels around town as well as nearby campgrounds that are perfect for budget travelers or hikers.

Saint Simons is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. There are campgrounds in the area that offer access to the island.

Is Saint Simons or Asheville Better for Students?

Asheville is a great destination for students. However, Saint Simons is not popular with students.

Asheville is a very popular mountain town for students and younger travelers. With its progressive personality and charming downtown, students enjoy spending time in this great town.

Saint Simons is not popular with students.

Is Saint Simons or Asheville Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Asheville is a mountain town with a few options for its public transit. However, Saint Simons is a island with minimal options for times when you don't have a car.

Public transit is generally limited in Asheville. There are buses around town, but almost everyone gets around by using their own vehicle. In particular, if you plan to hike or explore the Blue Ridge Mountains, you'll need a car. Many of the downtown hotels offer shuttle buses to the Biltmore area.

Public transit is quite limited in Saint Simons. While there are trolley tours available, public transportation is basically non-existent.

Is Saint Simons or Asheville a more walkable city?

Saint Simons and Asheville both are nice when exploring on foot.

Saint Simons is somewhat walkable. The downtown area is walkable, but to access much of what is available, you'll want to have a car.

Asheville is a somewhat walkable place. If you stay downtown and don't plan to explore the outlying areas, then it's possible to reach restaurants and shops on foot. Otherwise, you'll need a car.

For even more information, also check out Is Saint Simons Worth Visiting? and Is Asheville Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Asheville or Saint Simons?

How long in Saint Simons or Asheville?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Saint Simons and Asheville. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Saint Simons than in Asheville. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Saint Simons, and 2-3 days is enough time in Asheville.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Asheville than Saint Simons 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 Asheville.

One day in Saint Simons or Asheville?

Even though Saint Simons is a small town, it has plenty of activities to choose from. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

In Asheville, many people enjoy the live music and food that this progressive mountain town offers. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

A weekend in Saint Simons or Asheville?

Saint Simons is a small town where visitors enjoy the shopping and food. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this island has to offer. This island offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Asheville is a fun place to experience. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. So, a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

Five days in Saint Simons or Asheville?

Saint Simons is a small town, so it's a great destination if you're short on time. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. It's also a great beach destination, too. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

You'll find shopping and nightlife around the outdoorsy destination of Asheville. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days.

A week in Saint Simons or Asheville?

Saint Simons is a popular choice for travelers. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. 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.

Asheville is a popular place to visit. 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. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in United States of America, The Best Historical Tours in United States of America, The Best 10-Day Tours in United States of America, and The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in United States of America.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Saint Simons or Asheville?

Asheville has a larger population, and is about 5 times larger than the population of Saint Simons. When comparing the sizes of Saint Simons and Asheville, 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 Saint Simons or Asheville?

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 Saint Simons or Asheville in the Summer?

Both Asheville and Saint Simons are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Saint Simons for the beaches, the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Asheville because of the hiking, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Saint Simons is around the same temperature as Asheville. Typically, the summer temperatures in Saint Simons in July average around 82°F (28°C), and Asheville averages at about 82°F (28°C).

It's quite sunny in Asheville. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Saint Simons. Saint Simons usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Asheville during summer. Saint Simons gets 286 hours of sunny skies, while Asheville receives 268 hours of full sun in the summer.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Asheville. It's quite rainy in Saint Simons. In July, Saint Simons usually receives around the same amount of rain as Asheville. Saint Simons gets 5.4 inches (137 mm) of rain, while Asheville receives 5.4 inches (137 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Saint Simons or Asheville in the Autumn?

Both Asheville and Saint Simons during the autumn are popular places to visit. The autumn months attract visitors to Saint Simons because of the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area. Furthermore, the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Asheville this time of year.

In October, Saint Simons is generally a little warmer than Asheville. Daily temperatures in Saint Simons average around 70°F (21°C), and Asheville fluctuates around 64°F (18°C).

In Asheville, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Saint Simons. In the autumn, Saint Simons often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Asheville. Saint Simons gets 214 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Asheville receives 229 hours of full sun.

Saint Simons usually gets less rain in October than Asheville. Saint Simons gets 2.9 inches (73 mm) of rain, while Asheville receives 3.4 inches (86 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Saint Simons or Asheville in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Saint Simons and Asheville. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Saint Simons this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Asheville for the Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Saint Simons is much warmer than Asheville in the winter. The daily temperature in Saint Simons averages around 53°F (12°C) in January, and Asheville fluctuates around 44°F (7°C).

Saint Simons usually receives more sunshine than Asheville during winter. Saint Simons gets 191 hours of sunny skies, while Asheville receives 176 hours of full sun in the winter.

Asheville receives a lot of rain in the winter. In January, Saint Simons usually receives less rain than Asheville. Saint Simons gets 3.3 inches (83 mm) of rain, while Asheville receives 3.9 inches (100 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Saint Simons or Asheville in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Saint Simons as well as Asheville. Many travelers come to Saint Simons for the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty. Additionally, many visitors come to Asheville in the spring for the natural beauty.

In the spring, Saint Simons is a little warmer than Asheville. Typically, the spring temperatures in Saint Simons in April average around 68°F (20°C), and Asheville averages at about 64°F (18°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Asheville. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Saint Simons this time of the year. In the spring, Saint Simons often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Asheville. Saint Simons gets 285 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Asheville receives 266 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Asheville. Saint Simons usually gets less rain in April than Asheville. Saint Simons gets 2.8 inches (72 mm) of rain, while Asheville receives 4.4 inches (112 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Asheville and Saint Simons