A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Winston-Salem vs. Beaufort for Food, Old Town, Couples, and Attractions

Should you visit Winston-Salem or Beaufort?

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

Should I visit Winston-Salem or Beaufort? 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.

Winston-Salem

Winston-Salem is a under-rated, welcoming, and friendly city. It's also known for nightlife, food, and shopping. See Winston-Salem travel costs.

Beaufort

Beaufort is a charming, historic, and character-filled town. This is a great small town that is just waiting to be explored. Beaufort offers plenty of beauty for visitors. This is an attractive and quaint destination worth visiting as well. Other popular activities here include food, beaches, and shopping. See Beaufort travel costs.

Winston-Salem and Beaufort: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for students
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with couples
  • Less walkable
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular beach
  • Known for its beauty
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Very walkable
  • Small town charm
  • Quaint atmosphere
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less family-friendly


Is there more to do in Winston-Salem or Beaufort?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Beaufort than Winston-Salem, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Beaufort is better known for its food, beaches, historical sights, small town charm, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere, while Winston-Salem is more popular for its nightlife. Beaufort is more touristy than Winston-Salem and is known for its Lowcountry cuisine and historic homes. Also, Beaufort is famous for Henry C. Chambers Waterfront Park. Winston-Salem is well known for it's southern character and quaint college campuses.

How is Winston-Salem different from Beaufort?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Beaufort and Winston-Salem. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Winston-Salem or Beaufort?

Winston-Salem
Beaufort

For an educational experience, head to a museum or a notable sight in either Winston-Salem or Beaufort.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Winston-Salem. Old Salem has a nice concentration of museums and gardens. Outside of the old town you'll find several art museums like the Museum of Early Southern Decorative Arts and the Reynolda House Museum of American Art.

Beaufort is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. The town's museums highlight the region's past. There are four popular museums that you can visit - the Beaufort History Museum, Parris Island Museum, Verdier House Museum, and York W. Bailey Museum.


Is the Food Better in Winston-Salem or Beaufort? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Winston-Salem
Beaufort

Beaufort is notable for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Winston-Salem is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its restaurants.

Dining out in Beaufort is an experience not to be missed. Soak up the charming atmosphere by dining at one of the local restaurants. Many serve Lowcountry cuisine which includes She-crab soup, fried green tomatoes, shrimp burgers, and barbecue.

There are plenty of up and coming restaurants around Winston-Salem. North Carolina barbecue is popular around town. The city is also the birthplace of Krispy Kreme donuts and during the holiday season you should sample the local Moravian Cookies.

Is Winston-Salem or Beaufort Better for Nightlife?

Winston-Salem
Beaufort

Winston-Salem is a nice place to visit for nightlife. However, Beaufort is a mediocre town for nightlife and partying.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Winston-Salem. Local breweries are popping up around town. You'll also find active nightlife venues near the colleges and universities.

Those looking for nightlife will find a few places to hang out in Beaufort. You'll find bars, grills, and taverns in town, but most people don't visit for the nightlife scene.

Is Winston-Salem or Beaufort Better for Beaches?

Winston-Salem
Beaufort

Beaufort is a popular place for the beach. However, Winston-Salem is not a beach destination.

Beaufort is a good option for a beach vacation. The town has a nice waterfront, but you have to head about half an hour out of town for a real beach. One of the best options is Hunting Island State Park.

Winston-Salem is not a beach destination.


Is Winston-Salem or Beaufort Better for its Old Town?

Winston-Salem
Beaufort

Beaufort is notable for its historic old town charm. Also, Winston-Salem is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its historic old town.

Many visitors explore the old town while visiting Beaufort. Historic homes, some that were built before the Civil War, offer a glimpse into the past. Beaufort is the second oldest town in South Carolina and it holds on to much of its charm and character.

Winston-Salem is a good destination for visiting its old town. Nearby Old Salem is filled with historic museums, gardens, and restaurants. A ticket is required for most of the venues, but the atmosphere and architecture are charming.

Is the Shopping Better in Winston-Salem or Beaufort?

Winston-Salem
Beaufort

Both Winston-Salem and Beaufort are notable shopping destinations.

Many visitors go to Winston-Salem to go shopping. You'll find a mix of larger shopping malls, retail outlets, and shopping centers around town.

Plenty of visitors enjoy shopping while in Beaufort. Head downtown for some souvenir shopping or to check out the art galleries or fashion boutiques.

Is Winston-Salem or Beaufort More Beautiful?

Winston-Salem
Beaufort

Beaufort is a popular place for its scenery and beauty. However, Winston-Salem is not a destination known for its beauty.

Beaufort offers plenty of beauty for visitors. There are many beautiful spots to take in nature or watch the sunset.

Winston-Salem is not a destination known for its beauty.


Is Winston-Salem or Beaufort Better for Families?

Winston-Salem
Beaufort

Winston-Salem is a nice place to visit for its family-friendly activities. However, Beaufort is a mediocre town for its kid-friendly activities.

Winston-Salem is a family-friendly place to visit. There are interactive museums like the Kaleideum science museums. There are also outdoor parks and playgrounds, kid-friendly restaurants, and a children's theater.

Beaufort is not always a place people visit with their families. There are parks and outdoor activities in the area, but one of the best options is to head out of town to the beach.

Is Winston-Salem or Beaufort Better for Couples?

Winston-Salem
Beaufort

Beaufort is notable for couples. However, Winston-Salem is a mediocre city for romance.

Beaufort is a very popular place to visit for couples. There are many charming and romantic spots around town as well as historic inns where you can stay. Couples will enjoy the waterfront area or exploring one of the nature parks that are nearby. There are also quaint local restaurants that make for a nice date night.

Winston-Salem is not the best destination for a couple to visit. There are restaurants and movie theaters that make for a nice date night. There are also parks and walks that will get you outdoors.

Is Winston-Salem or Beaufort Better for Students?

Winston-Salem
Beaufort

Winston-Salem is a nice place to visit for students. However, Beaufort is not popular with students.

Winston-Salem is a good city to visit for students. Wake Forest University as well as colleges such as Salem College give parts of the city a collegiate vibe.

Beaufort is not popular with students.


Is Winston-Salem or Beaufort Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Winston-Salem
Beaufort

Winston-Salem is a moderate city for its public transit. However, Beaufort is a mediocre town for times when you don't have a car.

Public transit is generally limited in Winston-Salem. There are bus routes, but they are limited in their frequency and convenience, making a car essential for most visitors.

Public transit is quite limited in Beaufort. There is no reliable public transportation system in the area.

Is Winston-Salem or Beaufort a more walkable city?

Winston-Salem
Beaufort

Beaufort is notable for its ease of walking around. However, Winston-Salem is a mediocre city for its walkability.

Beaufort is a very walkable destination. The quaint downtown is walkable and offers easy access to art galleries, restaurants, and shops.

Winston-Salem is generally not a very walkable city. The downtown area is the most pedestrian-friendly part of town, but most of the city requires a car.

For even more information, also check out Is Winston-Salem Worth Visiting? and Is Beaufort Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Beaufort or Winston-Salem?

How long in Winston-Salem or Beaufort?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Winston-Salem and Beaufort. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Beaufort than in Winston-Salem. Usually, 1-2 days is a good amount of time for Winston-Salem, and 1-3 days is enough time in Beaufort.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Beaufort than Winston-Salem 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 Beaufort.


  • How many days in Winston-Salem or Beaufort? Ideal Length of Stay
    Winston-Salem 1-2 
    Beaufort 1-3

One day in Winston-Salem or Beaufort?

The city of Winston-Salem offers food and shopping. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one day here. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Even though Beaufort is a small town, it has plenty of activities to choose from. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Your budget might influence how long you stay. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then one day is just the right amount of time to spend here.


A weekend in Winston-Salem or Beaufort?

Winston-Salem is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this city makes for a great vacation. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Winston-Salem, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Beaufort. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. A weekend is usually enough time to experience most activities.

Five days in Winston-Salem or Beaufort?

Winston-Salem is a popular choice for travelers. Five days 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. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Beaufort is a small town, so it's a great destination if you're short on time. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from. Five days 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.

A week in Winston-Salem or Beaufort?

Winston-Salem is a great place to explore. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This city offers something for everyone.

Beaufort is a small town, so you can explore the area with less time. Visiting the old town is also a must. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.


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, Beaufort or Winston-Salem?

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

  • Winston-Salem Prices
    USA Prices
    Beaufort Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Winston-Salem $181
    Beaufort $154

The average daily cost (per person) in Winston-Salem is $181, while the average daily cost in Beaufort is $154. 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 Winston-Salem and Beaufort in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Winston-Salem $91
    Beaufort $100
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Winston-Salem $182
    Beaufort $200
Compare Hotels in Winston-Salem and Beaufort

Looking for a hotel in Winston-Salem or Beaufort? 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 Winston-Salem


Hotels in Beaufort


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: Winston-Salem Hotel Prices and Beaufort Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Winston-Salem $23
    Beaufort -

Is it cheaper to fly into Winston-Salem or Beaufort?

Prices for flights to both Beaufort and Winston-Salem 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
    Winston-Salem $73
    Beaufort $54

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Winston-Salem $20
    Beaufort -

Tours and Activities in Winston-Salem

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Winston-Salem are as follows:

  • Old Salem's Ghost Self Guided Outside Walking Tour: $7.75
  • Winston-Salem Historic Guided Walking Tour: $19
  • Winston-Salem True Crime Tour: $19
  • Winston Salem African American History Tour: $19
  • Carolina History & Haunts Winston-Salem Historical Ghost Tour: $26

Tours and Activities in Beaufort

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Beaufort are as follows:

  • Historic City Tour by Bus: $37
  • Local History and Film Sites Tour by golf cart: $38
  • Pat Conroy's Beaufort Tour by Golf Cart: $48
  • Gullah Heritage Tour: $52
  • Beaufort Tipsy Tour: $59

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Winston-Salem $24
    Beaufort -


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

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Winston-Salem Expensive? and Is Beaufort Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Winston-Salem or Beaufort?

Winston-Salem has a larger population, and is about 20 times larger than the population of Beaufort. When comparing the sizes of Winston-Salem and Beaufort, 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 Winston-Salem or Beaufort?

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 Winston-Salem or Beaufort in the Summer?

Both Beaufort and Winston-Salem are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Winston-Salem for the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Beaufort in the summer for the beaches, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Winston-Salem is around the same temperature as Beaufort. Typically, the summer temperatures in Winston-Salem in July average around 81°F (27°C), and Beaufort averages at about 82°F (28°C).

It's quite sunny in Beaufort. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Winston-Salem. Winston-Salem usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Beaufort during summer. Winston-Salem gets 273 hours of sunny skies, while Beaufort receives 267 hours of full sun in the summer.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Beaufort. It's quite rainy in Winston-Salem. In July, Winston-Salem usually receives less rain than Beaufort. Winston-Salem gets 4.4 inches (112 mm) of rain, while Beaufort receives 7.9 inches (200 mm) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Winston-Salem 81°F (27°C) 
    Beaufort 82°F (28°C)

Should I visit Winston-Salem or Beaufort in the Autumn?

Both Beaufort and Winston-Salem during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Winston-Salem in the autumn for the shopping scene. Also, most visitors come to Beaufort for the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

In October, Winston-Salem is generally cooler than Beaufort. Daily temperatures in Winston-Salem average around 62°F (17°C), and Beaufort fluctuates around 68°F (20°C).

In Beaufort, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Winston-Salem. In the autumn, Winston-Salem often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Beaufort. Winston-Salem gets 212 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Beaufort receives 223 hours of full sun.

Winston-Salem usually gets around the same amount of rain in October as Beaufort. Winston-Salem gets 3 inches (75 mm) of rain, while Beaufort receives 2.8 inches (71 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Winston-Salem 62°F (17°C) 
    Beaufort 68°F (20°C)

Should I visit Winston-Salem or Beaufort in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Winston-Salem and Beaufort. Most visitors come to Winston-Salem for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Beaufort because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Winston-Salem can be very cold during winter. Winston-Salem is much colder than Beaufort in the winter. The daily temperature in Winston-Salem averages around 40°F (4°C) in January, and Beaufort fluctuates around 48°F (9°C).

Winston-Salem usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Beaufort during winter. Winston-Salem gets 169 hours of sunny skies, while Beaufort receives 176 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Winston-Salem usually receives more rain than Beaufort. Winston-Salem gets 3.2 inches (82 mm) of rain, while Beaufort receives 2.9 inches (74 mm) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Winston-Salem 40°F (4°C) 
    Beaufort 48°F (9°C)

Should I visit Winston-Salem or Beaufort in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Winston-Salem as well as Beaufort. Also, the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty are the main draw to Beaufort this time of year.

In the spring, Winston-Salem is cooler than Beaufort. Typically, the spring temperatures in Winston-Salem in April average around 61°F (16°C), and Beaufort averages at about 67°F (19°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Beaufort. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Winston-Salem this time of the year. In the spring, Winston-Salem often gets less sunshine than Beaufort. Winston-Salem gets 248 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Beaufort receives 275 hours of full sun.

Winston-Salem usually gets more rain in April than Beaufort. Winston-Salem gets 3.1 inches (80 mm) of rain, while Beaufort receives 2.9 inches (74 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Winston-Salem 61°F (16°C) 
    Beaufort 67°F (19°C)

Typical Weather for Beaufort and Winston-Salem

Winston-Salem Beaufort
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 40°F (4°C) 3.2 inches (82 mm) 48°F (9°C) 2.9 inches (74 mm)
Feb 43°F (6°C) 3.4 inches (86 mm) 52°F (11°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm)
Mar 52°F (11°C) 3.7 inches (94 mm) 58°F (15°C) 4.4 inches (112 mm)
Apr 61°F (16°C) 3.1 inches (80 mm) 67°F (19°C) 2.9 inches (74 mm)
May 69°F (21°C) 3 inches (77 mm) 73°F (23°C) 4.2 inches (107 mm)
Jun 77°F (25°C) 3.9 inches (99 mm) 80°F (26°C) 5.9 inches (150 mm)
Jul 81°F (27°C) 4.4 inches (112 mm) 82°F (28°C) 7.9 inches (200 mm)
Aug 80°F (26°C) 4.3 inches (109 mm) 81°F (27°C) 6.5 inches (164 mm)
Sep 73°F (23°C) 3.5 inches (90 mm) 77°F (25°C) 5.6 inches (141 mm)
Oct 62°F (17°C) 3 inches (75 mm) 68°F (20°C) 2.8 inches (71 mm)
Nov 53°F (12°C) 2.6 inches (67 mm) 59°F (15°C) 1.9 inches (49 mm)
Dec 44°F (7°C) 3.1 inches (80 mm) 52°F (11°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm)