A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Washington vs. Chimney Rock and Lake Lure for Attractions, Food, Nightlife, and Hiking

Should you visit Washington or Chimney Rock and Lake Lure?

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

Which city is more affordable and which is best for your travel style? If you're trying to figure out where to go next, comparing the travel costs between Washington and Chimney Rock and Lake Lure can help you decide which place is right for you.

Washington

Washington is a active, monument-filled, and international city. As it's a big city, visitors will find plenty to do, too. With stunning beauty, Washington attracts visitors from all around. As this is a very quaint destination, you'll find it has a special atmosphere. Other popular activities here include food, shopping, and museums. See Washington 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.

Washington and Chimney Rock and Lake Lure: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Numerous theater shows
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Fun shopping
  • Popular at Christmas
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for students
  • Good public transit
  • Very walkable
  • Big city activities
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to the Washington Monument and the White House
Things to Consider
  • Less hiking options
  • Less popular with backpackers
Pros
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • Less popular for food
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less popular for shopping
  • Public transit not as usable
  • Less walkable


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

Visitors will usually find more to do in Washington than Chimney Rock and Lake Lure, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Washington is better known for its museums and attractions, theatre productions, food, nightlife, music, shopping, big city activities, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere, while Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is more popular for its hiking. Washington is well known for its reputation as the capital of the United States, but it's also known for its many monuments, memorials, and museums. Also, Washington is famous for The Washington Monument and the White House. Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is well known for its beautiful views and fun outdoor activities.

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

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

Washington
Chimney Rock and Lake Lure

Washington is an amazing city to visit for its museums and landmarks. However, Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is a recreation area with minimal options for its historical sights.

You'll find many recognizable landmarks that put Washington on the map. The city has world class museums that are often free. The Smithsonian Museums are arguably some of the most impressive museums in the United States. The city also has a large collection of monuments that are dedicated to past presidents or historical events. Many are best experienced at night when the sun sets and the lights come on.

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.


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

Washington
Chimney Rock and Lake Lure

Washington is a great destination for its shows and theatre. However, Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is not a theatre destination.

Washington attracts a wide-range of world-class performances. Theater is popular in the city. From major theaters like the Kennedy Center and Ford's Theater, to lesser known smaller venues, there are options for everyone.

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is not a theatre destination.

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

Washington
Chimney Rock and Lake Lure

Washington is an amazing city to visit for its restaurant scene. However, Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is a recreation area with minimal options for its local flavors and cuisine.

Many restaurants in Washington have been singled out for their culinary prowess. This city is among the most diverse in the country, so you can find restaurants from almost any cuisine here. It's worth exploring and stepping out of your comfort zone. There are popular neighborhoods for Ethiopian, Korean, Thai, Japanese, and Chinese food, among many others.

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 Washington or Chimney Rock and Lake Lure Better for Nightlife?

Washington
Chimney Rock and Lake Lure

Washington 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 Washington know how to have a good time. Many visitors head straight to the museums and the National Mall, and don't realize what a livable and fun city this is. Some of the best nightlife is found in Dupont Circle, U Street, and even Arlington, VA. The city's young population ensures that there's never a dull moment.

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


Is Washington or Chimney Rock and Lake Lure Better for Music?

Washington
Chimney Rock and Lake Lure

Washington is a city with good options for its music scene. However, Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is not a live music destination.

You'll find some good live music in Washington. Notable live music venues include the 9:30 Club, the Anthem, and Union Stage.

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is not a live music destination.

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

Washington
Chimney Rock and Lake Lure

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is great for hiking. However, Washington is not a good destination for the nearby hiking options.

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.

Many visitors include a hike while visiting Washington. Just outside of Washington DC you'll find plenty of places to go hiking. There's also an elaborate bike and walking trail system in the city. To enjoy a bit of nature, head to Teddy Roosevelt Island.

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

Washington
Chimney Rock and Lake Lure

Washington 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 Washington. Head to Georgetown and Dupont Circle for some of the city's best local shopping. There are name brand chains mixed in with local boutiques. You'll also find plenty of souvenir shops in the more touristy areas if you're looking to pick up some trinkets.

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 Washington or Chimney Rock and Lake Lure More Beautiful?

Washington
Chimney Rock and Lake Lure

Washington 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, Washington attracts visitors from all around. The city is particularly beautiful when it lights up at night or when the Cherry Blossoms are in bloom.

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 Washington or Chimney Rock and Lake Lure Better for Families?

Washington
Chimney Rock and Lake Lure

You'll find superb kid-friendly activities in either Washington or Chimney Rock and Lake Lure.

Washington is a very family-friendly destination. It is a fun and educational destination where kids can explore world class museums and try unique foods from all around the world. The city has nationally recognized landmarks, monuments, and memorials and it's also home to some of the best (free) museums in the United States including the world class Smithsonian Institutions. Many schools visit Washington DC as a field trip, particularly during the Spring months, so you'll kids groups in colorful t-shirts running around the National Mall.

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is a very kid-friendly city. 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 Washington or Chimney Rock and Lake Lure Better for Couples?

Washington
Chimney Rock and Lake Lure

Both Washington and Chimney Rock and Lake Lure are superb destinations to visit as a couple.

Washington is a great city if you're traveling as a couple. The city lights up at night, so couples will enjoy wandering by the monuments in the evening or taking in a dinner and show. During the Spring months you'll find couples wandering through the Cherry Blossoms or along the waterfront.

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is a very popular place to visit for couples. 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 Washington or Chimney Rock and Lake Lure Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Washington
Chimney Rock and Lake Lure

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is great for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Washington 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.

Washington is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. While it is an international travel destination, the city often isn't at the top of most backpacker's lists. There are some affordable accommodation options available though if you know where to look.

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

Washington
Chimney Rock and Lake Lure

Washington is an amazing city to visit for students. However, Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is not popular with students.

Washington is a very popular city for students. International students come from around the world to study, learn, intern, and work in the capital of the United States. There are many internships available through the federal government as well as NGOs and nonprofits.

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is not popular with students.

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

Washington
Chimney Rock and Lake Lure

Washington is an amazing city to visit 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 in Washington is top-notch. The metro system and the bus system are reliable and efficient ways to explore the city.

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


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

Washington
Chimney Rock and Lake Lure

Washington is an amazing city to visit for its ease of walking around. However, Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is a recreation area with minimal options for its walkability.

Getting around Washington on foot is easy. Many neighborhoods around the city are easy to explore on foot. Most tourists spend a lot of time in the Mall area, which is very pedestrian friendly.

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is not a very 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 Washington Worth Visiting? and Is Chimney Rock and Lake Lure Worth Visiting?.

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

How long in Washington or Chimney Rock and Lake Lure?

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

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Washington 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 Washington.


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

One day in Washington or Chimney Rock and Lake Lure?

Each neighborhood in Washington has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

With around the peaceful recreation area of Chimney Rock and Lake Lure, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Chimney Rock and Lake Lure, one day is sufficent for most.

A weekend in Washington or Chimney Rock and Lake Lure?

Each neighborhood in Washington has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. 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.

With around the destination of Chimney Rock and Lake Lure, there's plenty to do. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. It offers something for everyone. Many people spend a weekend here. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this recreation area.


Five days in Washington or Chimney Rock and Lake Lure?

Each neighborhood in Washington has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. This is a popular place to visit for five days.Five days is often enough time to do most activities. This city offers something for everyone.

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure, a popular recreation area, is full of activities for travelers. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

A week in Washington or Chimney Rock and Lake Lure?

Each neighborhood in Washington has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. If you have one week, this city makes for a great vacation. Because of this, one week is usually enough time for a trip here.

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Bicycle Tours in United States of America, Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in United States of America, The Best Coach Bus Tours in United States of America, and The Best Adventure Tours to United States of America.


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

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

  • Washington Prices
    USA Prices
    Chimney Rock and Lake Lure Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Washington $226
    Chimney Rock and Lake Lure $234

The average daily cost (per person) in Washington is $226, 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 Washington and Chimney Rock and Lake Lure in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Washington $113
    Chimney Rock and Lake Lure $117
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Washington $226
    Chimney Rock and Lake Lure $234
Compare Hotels in Washington and Chimney Rock and Lake Lure

Looking for a hotel in Washington 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 Washington


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: Washington Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Washington $47
    Chimney Rock and Lake Lure $35
Typical Local Transportation Prices in Washington

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


  • Metro Day Pass
    $9.00

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Washington

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

  • Airport Transfer DCA to/from Washington DC Downtown Area only: $147
  • Airport Transfer from Dulles IAD Airport⇄ Washington Dc: $99
  • Airport Transfer from Ronald Reagan Airport DCA ⇄ Washington DC: $65
  • Airport Transfer from Ronald Reagan ⇄Airport DCA to Washington DC: $90
  • Arrival Private Transfer: National Airport DCA to Washington in Business Car: $155
  • Arrival Private Transfer: National Airport DCA to Washington in Luxury Car: $203
  • Arrival Transfer from Dulles Airport IAD to Washington DC by SUV: $188
  • Arrival Transfer: Airport DCA to Washington by Luxury SUV: $173
  • Baltimore Airport (BWI) to Washington - Arrival Private Transfer: $154
  • Departure Private Transfer: Washington to Dulles Airport IAD in Luxury Car: $232
  • Departure Private Transfer: Washington to Dulles Airport IAD in Luxury SUV: $173
  • Departure Private Transfer: Washington to Dulles Airport IAD in Luxury Van: $173

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

Prices for flights to both Chimney Rock and Lake Lure and Washington 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
    Washington $66
    Chimney Rock and Lake Lure $91
Typical Food Prices in Washington

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


  • Water
    $2.00
  • Snacks on Monuments Tour
    $6.15

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Washington

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

  • DC: City Cruises Buffet Brunch, Lunch, or Dinner Cruise: $60
  • DC: City Cruises Gourmet Brunch, Lunch, or Dinner Cruise: $71
  • Little Ethiopia Food Tour: $71
  • Adams Morgan Food Tour: $78
  • Dupont Circle Food Tour: $84
  • Washington D.C: Acquired Taste Food Tour in Georgetown: $95
  • DC: Eastern Market Eats Food Tour (5 Food Stops + Dessert): $99
  • Washington D.C.: Georgetown Guided Secret Food Tour: $104
  • City Cruises Washington DC: Signature Dinner Cruise: $121
  • City Cruises Washington DC: Premier Dinner Cruise: $127
  • Eastern Market Neighborhood Food Tour (5 Food Stops + Dessert): $129
  • Washington D.C.: Taste of Georgetown Walking Food Tour: $129

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Washington $24
    Chimney Rock and Lake Lure $34

Tours and Activities in Washington

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

  • Private Audio Guided Walking Tour in Washington: $6.00
  • The Kennedy Homes: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $7.99
  • Washington DC Self Guided Audio Experience: $9.00
  • Georgetown's Famous Ghosts Smartphone Guided Haunted Walking Tour: $9.75
  • Reflections on a Nation Self-Guided National Mall Highlights Tour: $9.99
  • Washington DC Mall Self Guided Audio Walking Tour: $12
  • National Mall Democracy Quest Experience in Washington DC: $12
  • Washington DC Audio Tour: Washington, D.C. Audio Tour Adventure: $15
  • DC - Historical: At your leisure and your pace. Downloadable audiovisual tour.: $15
  • Washington DC Monuments Self-Guided Walking Audio Tour: $15
  • City Cruises DC: Water Taxi from Wharf or Old Town Alexandria: $20
  • Washington D.C.: Washington Wizards Basketball Game Ticket: $20

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Washington $19
    Chimney Rock and Lake Lure $21

Sample the Local Flavors in Washington

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Washington:

  • Epic Washington DC Bar Crawl: By Let’s Roam: $12
  • Washington DC: Ghosts Boos and Booze Haunted Pub Crawl: $30
  • DC Ghosts Boos and Booze Haunted Pub Crawl By US Ghost Adventures: $36
  • Washington, D.C.: History Tour Pub Crawl: $56
  • DC Signature Guided Brewery Tour: $105
  • DC: Guided Craft Brewery Tours with a Snack: $105


When comparing the travel costs between Washington 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 Washington Expensive? and Is Chimney Rock and Lake Lure Expensive?.


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

Washington has a larger population, and is about 3330 times larger than the population of Chimney Rock and Lake Lure. When comparing the sizes of Washington 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.