A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America West Palm Beach vs. Blue Ridge for Food, Nightlife, Families, and Couples

Should you visit West Palm Beach or Blue Ridge?

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

Should I visit West Palm Beach or Blue Ridge? 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.

West Palm Beach

West Palm Beach is a fun-filled, diverse, and vibrant beach area. Other reasons to visit include nightlife, scuba diving and snorkeling, and beaches. See West Palm Beach travel costs.

Blue Ridge

Blue Ridge is a outdoorsy, historic, and quaint town. With plenty of activities and sights, this is a small town worth visiting. Blue Ridge is a gorgeous place to visit. Other reasons to visit include shopping, nightlife, and food. See Blue Ridge travel costs.

West Palm Beach and Blue Ridge: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in West Palm Beach or Blue Ridge?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Blue Ridge. Although West Palm Beach and Blue Ridge are both popular with visitors, Blue Ridge has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Blue Ridge is more popular for its museums and attractions, food, hiking, shopping, small town charm, and impressive beauty, while West Palm Beach is known for its nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, and beaches. West Palm Beach is more touristy than Blue Ridge and is known for its nice resorts, a lively boardwalk, great seafood, and fun watersports. Blue Ridge is popular for its beautiful mountain setting, miles of hiking trails, and small town atmosphere. It is also home to Chattahoochee National Forest.

How is West Palm Beach different from Blue Ridge?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Blue Ridge and West Palm Beach. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in West Palm Beach or Blue Ridge?

Blue Ridge is adequate for its historical sights. However, West Palm Beach does not have museums and landmarks.

While most people don't head to Blue Ridge specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. While you don't immediately think of museums in the area, there are a couple. The Dahlonega Gold Museum gives information on the gold rush and mining industry in town. In nearby Tennessee, Ducktown Basin Museum is a historic mine site that is open for tours.

West Palm Beach does not have museums and landmarks.

Is the Food Better in West Palm Beach or Blue Ridge? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Blue Ridge is a great town for its local flavors and cuisine. However, West Palm Beach is not known for its local cuisine and restaurants.

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in Blue Ridge. You'll find plenty of small town restaurants serving local dishes like barbecue, trout, and biscuits with gravy. Southern food is popular, but you'll also find plenty of breweries and wineries in the area. Head downtown for an assortment of options that include southern, vegan, and even international flavors.

You'll find the standard options when it comes to food in West Palm Beach. Oceanfront restaurants usually have a great view and offer local and fresh seafood. There are also many local restaurants concentrated around Clematis Street and CityPlace districts.

Is West Palm Beach or Blue Ridge Better for Nightlife?

West Palm Beach is a very popular place for nightlife. Also, Blue Ridge is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for nightlife and partying.

West Palm Beach has a large number of nightlife venues. With rooftop bars and clubs, oceanfront venues, and plenty of nightlife options downtown, this city rivals most places when it comes to nightlife. The nightlife scene is particularly active during spring break, when university students head to town.

Blue Ridge has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. Head downtown for a mix of breweries, bars, and clubs where you'll find live music and a casual meal.

Is West Palm Beach or Blue Ridge Better for Resorts?

West Palm Beach is an amazing beach area to visit for its luxury resorts. However, Blue Ridge is not a resort destination.

Vacationers flock to West Palm Beach for its luxury resorts. All of the major names are present including the Hilton, Marriott, and Four Seasons.

Blue Ridge is not a resort destination.

Is West Palm Beach or Blue Ridge Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

West Palm Beach is a very popular place for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Blue Ridge is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

There are many scuba diving and snorkeling spots near West Palm Beach. Check out Phil Foster Park in Rivera Beach. It's a man-made reef that is surprisingly clear.

Blue Ridge is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is West Palm Beach or Blue Ridge Better for Beaches?

West Palm Beach is an amazing beach area to visit for its beaches. However, Blue Ridge is not a beach destination.

West Palm Beach offers stunning beaches that attract visitors from around the world. From bustling beaches with a boardwalk to quieter, more relaxing beaches surrounded by parkland, there are are number of options in the area.

Blue Ridge is not a beach destination.

Is West Palm Beach or Blue Ridge Better for Hiking?

Blue Ridge is a great town for hiking. However, West Palm Beach is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors go to Blue Ridge for the hiking trails. There are miles of hiking trails in the area that take you to waterfalls and viewpoints. The starting point of the Appalachian Trail is also nearby, and another popular trail is the Benton MacKaye Trail. Options range from beginner to expert with everything in between.

West Palm Beach is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in West Palm Beach or Blue Ridge?

Blue Ridge is a great town for shopping. However, West Palm Beach is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Blue Ridge. You'll find artisan shops, art galleries, and boutique clothing vendors. Many places are concentrated in the charming downtown area, which is fun to explore for a day or two.

West Palm Beach is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is West Palm Beach or Blue Ridge More Beautiful?

Blue Ridge is a popular place for its scenery and beauty. However, West Palm Beach is not a destination known for its beauty.

Blue Ridge is a gorgeous place to visit. There are plenty of hikes to waterfalls and scenic viewpoints. There's also a scenic railroad as well as places to kayak or go horseback riding.

West Palm Beach is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is West Palm Beach or Blue Ridge Better for Families?

Kids will enjoy a visit to either West Palm Beach or Blue Ridge.

West Palm Beach is a very family-friendly destination. Animal lovers will appreciate the zoos and aquariums in the area. Check out McCarthy's Wildlife Sanctuary, Manatee Lagoon, the Palm Beach Zoo, and the South Florida Science Center and Aquarium.

Blue Ridge is a very kid-friendly beach area. Kids who enjoy hiking and playing outdoors will have fun here. There are waterfall hikes, fruit picking farms, and plenty of playgrounds. There's also a scenic railway and lots of places to sample treats.

Is West Palm Beach or Blue Ridge Better for Couples?

With fun activities for couples, both West Palm Beach and Blue Ridge make for a superb place to visit.

West Palm Beach is a great beach area if you're traveling as a couple. Couples will enjoy kayaking, dining out, or simply relaxing on the beach. It's fun to spend a day exploring the botanical gardens and an evening wandering around Clematis Street.

Blue Ridge is a very popular place to visit for couples. If you're looking for a cozy retreat where you can relax in a cabin, take long walks through nature, and enjoy local food, then this is your place. There are plenty of bed and breakfasts, vacation rentals, and rustic cabins with fireplaces and simple pleasures. If you want to escape it all then the mountains are the place to be.

Is West Palm Beach or Blue Ridge Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Blue Ridge is a great town for backpackers and budget travelers. However, West Palm Beach is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

Blue Ridge is very popular with the backpacker crowd. There are a number of campgrounds in the area as well as plenty of hikes that backpackers will enjoy. Nearby you'll also find the start of the famed Appalachian Trail.

West Palm Beach is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

Is West Palm Beach or Blue Ridge Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

West Palm Beach is a good destination for times when you don't have a car. However, Blue Ridge is lacking in good options for its public transit.

West Palm Beach has some public transit options. There's a downtown trolley, a commuter trail line (connecting West Palm Beach, Miami, and Fort Lauderdale), and a bus system with about 30 lines.

Public transit is limited or non-existant in Blue Ridge. There's no real public transportation system in the area.

Is West Palm Beach or Blue Ridge a more walkable city?

West Palm Beach and Blue Ridge are good when it comes to walkability.

West Palm Beach is somewhat walkable. West Palm Beach has a surprisingly walkable area and it's possible to explore the downtown area on foot.

Blue Ridge is a somewhat walkable place. While the downtown area is relatively walkable, if you want to hike and get out in nature, you'll need to have a car.

For even more information, also check out Is West Palm Beach Worth Visiting? and Is Blue Ridge Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Blue Ridge or West Palm Beach?

How long in West Palm Beach or Blue Ridge?

In either West Palm Beach or Blue Ridge, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in West Palm Beach than Blue Ridge because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for West Palm Beach, and 2-5 days is enough time in Blue Ridge.

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

Couples should spend more time in West Palm Beach than Blue Ridge. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in West Palm Beach that are great for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Blue Ridge than West Palm Beach 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 Blue Ridge.

One day in West Palm Beach or Blue Ridge?

With scuba diving and snorkeling and nightlife around the diverse beach area of West Palm Beach, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. One of the main draws to the area is the beaches. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

Blue Ridge is a small town with plenty to do. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

A weekend in West Palm Beach or Blue Ridge?

With nightlife and scuba diving and snorkeling around the destination of West Palm Beach, there's plenty to do. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. It offers something for everyone. One of the main draws to the area is the beaches. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything.

Blue Ridge might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. A weekend here is typical. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything. A weekend is often enough time to do most activities.

Five days in West Palm Beach or Blue Ridge?

West Palm Beach, a popular beach area, is full of activities for travelers. This is a popular place to visit for five days. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. In five days, you should have a good grasp of this beach area. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Blue Ridge is a great place to explore. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. This town offers something for everyone. It is common to spend five days here. Five days is often enough time to do most activities.

A week in West Palm Beach or Blue Ridge?

West Palm Beach is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have one week, this beach area makes for a great vacation. One of the main draws to the area is the beaches. One week should give you a good understanding of everything this beach area has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Since Blue Ridge is a small town, it's easily explored when your time is limited. Hikers are also drawn to this area. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 3-Week Tours in United States of America, The Best Bicycle Tours in United States of America, Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in United States of America, and The Best Coach Bus Tours in United States of America.

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

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is West Palm Beach Expensive? and Is Blue Ridge Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, West Palm Beach or Blue Ridge?

West Palm Beach has a larger population, and is about 70 times larger than the population of Blue Ridge. When comparing the sizes of West Palm Beach and Blue Ridge, 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 West Palm Beach or Blue Ridge?

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 West Palm Beach or Blue Ridge in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both West Palm Beach and Blue Ridge. Most visitors come to West Palm Beach for the beaches, snorkeling, and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Blue Ridge because of the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences.

West Palm Beach is around the same temperature as Blue Ridge in the summer. The daily temperature in West Palm Beach averages around 82°F (28°C) in July, and Blue Ridge fluctuates around 81°F (27°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Blue Ridge this time of the year. In West Palm Beach, it's very sunny this time of the year. West Palm Beach usually receives more sunshine than Blue Ridge during summer. West Palm Beach gets 316 hours of sunny skies, while Blue Ridge receives 265 hours of full sun in the summer.

Blue Ridge receives a lot of rain in the summer. West Palm Beach gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In July, West Palm Beach usually receives more rain than Blue Ridge. West Palm Beach gets 6.5 inches (166 mm) of rain, while Blue Ridge receives 5.2 inches (131 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit West Palm Beach or Blue Ridge in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to West Palm Beach as well as Blue Ridge. Also, the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Blue Ridge this time of year.

In the autumn, West Palm Beach is a little warmer than Blue Ridge. Typically, the autumn temperatures in West Palm Beach in October average around 78°F (25°C), and Blue Ridge averages at about 63°F (17°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Blue Ridge. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in West Palm Beach this time of the year. In the autumn, West Palm Beach often gets more sunshine than Blue Ridge. West Palm Beach gets 275 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Blue Ridge receives 211 hours of full sun.

West Palm Beach receives a lot of rain in the autumn. West Palm Beach usually gets more rain in October than Blue Ridge. West Palm Beach gets 8.7 inches (222 mm) of rain, while Blue Ridge receives 3 inches (75 mm) of rain this time of the year. Also, the hurricane season in West Palm Beach is June to November.

Should I visit West Palm Beach or Blue Ridge in the Winter?

Both Blue Ridge and West Palm Beach are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The cuisine are the main draw to West Palm Beach this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Blue Ridge for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Blue Ridge. In January, West Palm Beach is generally much warmer than Blue Ridge. Daily temperatures in West Palm Beach average around 65°F (19°C), and Blue Ridge fluctuates around 40°F (5°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in West Palm Beach. West Palm Beach usually receives more sunshine than Blue Ridge during winter. West Palm Beach gets 243 hours of sunny skies, while Blue Ridge receives 145 hours of full sun in the winter.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Blue Ridge. In January, West Palm Beach usually receives less rain than Blue Ridge. West Palm Beach gets 2.6 inches (66 mm) of rain, while Blue Ridge receives 5.4 inches (137 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit West Palm Beach or Blue Ridge in the Spring?

Both Blue Ridge and West Palm Beach during the spring are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to West Palm Beach for the beaches. Furthermore, many visitors come to Blue Ridge in the spring for the small town charm and the natural beauty.

West Palm Beach is a little warmer than Blue Ridge in the spring. The daily temperature in West Palm Beach averages around 74°F (23°C) in April, and Blue Ridge fluctuates around 62°F (17°C).

In Blue Ridge, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in West Palm Beach. In the spring, West Palm Beach often gets more sunshine than Blue Ridge. West Palm Beach gets 300 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Blue Ridge receives 243 hours of full sun.

Blue Ridge gets a good bit of rain this time of year. West Palm Beach usually gets less rain in April than Blue Ridge. West Palm Beach gets 3.5 inches (89 mm) of rain, while Blue Ridge receives 4.4 inches (112 mm) of rain this time of the year. Keep in mind that June to November is the hurricane season in West Palm Beach.

Typical Weather for Blue Ridge and West Palm Beach