A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Asheville vs. Boulder for Nightlife, Music, Hiking, and Families

Should you visit Asheville or Boulder?

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

Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for Asheville and Boulder. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.

Asheville

Asheville is a open-minded, eclectic, and outdoorsy mountain town. It's a beautiful place to visit, too. This destination also has one of those special and quaint feelings. Visitors also love the live music, food, and hiking.

Boulder

Boulder is a outdoorsy, nature-filled, and biker-friendly city. It's a beautiful place to visit, too. And you can't forget about the live music, food, and hiking.

Asheville and Boulder: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Asheville or Boulder?

Travelers will generally find more things to do in Asheville than Boulder. While Boulder is larger than Asheville, Asheville has more sights and attractions for tourists. Asheville is better known for its nightlife, music, resorts, historical sights, shopping, christmas markets, and quaint atmosphere, while Boulder is more popular for its skiing and museums. Asheville is well known for its fall foliage, artsy downtown, local North Carolina barbecue, and being home to the Biltmore Estate. Also, Asheville is famous for The Biltmore Estate. Boulder is well known for its outdoor sports, biker-friendly downtown, vibrant downtown, and many local breweries.

How is Asheville different from Boulder?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Asheville or Boulder Better for Skiing?

Boulder is a city with a few options for winter skiing. However, Asheville is not a skiing destination.

Boulder is a fun local destination for snow skiers. The town offers access within an hour or two to several great ski resorts including Eldora Mountain, Vail, and Breckenridge.

Asheville is not a skiing destination.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Asheville or Boulder?

Boulder is a city with a few options for its museums and landmarks. However, Asheville does not have museums and landmarks.

Boulder offers a handful of options for museums and historical sights. Most people visit Boulder for the outdoor activities more than the museums and sights. If have the time you can wander around the University of Colorado Boulder campus, visit the Museum of Boulder, or see the Leanin' Tree Museum of Western Art.

Asheville does not have museums and landmarks.

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

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

Visitors will find a budding food and restaurant scene in Asheville. 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.

Boulder is becoming an appealing option for foodies. This is an often overlooked foodie town, with great farmer's markets and restaurants to try. There are many casual places to eat as well as vegetarian and vegan friendly options everywhere.

Is Asheville or Boulder Better for Nightlife?

Asheville is a great mountain town for nightlife and partying. Also, Boulder is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its evening party scene.

The nightlife in Asheville has something for everybody. The city has a fun and eclectic nightlife scene that centers around the city's breweries and live music venues.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Boulder. The town has breweries, craft beer, and plenty to do in the evening. Live music is popular and many venues are smaller with a more personal atmosphere. Check out The Bitter Bar or License No. 1 for a local vibe.

Is Asheville or Boulder Better for Music?

Asheville is a great mountain town for its live music scene. Also, Boulder is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its music scene.

Asheville has a thriving music scene. The city has grown into a world famous music destination that holds true to its mountain roots and independent artists.

The music scene in Boulder is active and vibrant. During the summer months there are often outdoor concerts. Head to Pearl Street for open air stages or see a concert at Boulder Theater.

Is Asheville or Boulder Better for Resorts?

Asheville is a good destination for its luxury resorts. However, Boulder is not a resort destination.

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.

Boulder is not a resort destination.

Is Asheville or Boulder Better for its Old Town?

Asheville is adequate for its old town. However, Boulder does not have a historic old town.

You can check out the historic old town in Asheville. Downtown Asheville maintains much of its historic vibe, but it's smaller than some of the more notable old cities around the country.

Boulder does not have a historic old town.

Is Asheville or Boulder Better for Hiking?

Hiking trails can be found around both Asheville and Boulder, and they are excellent.

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 visitors go to Boulder for the hiking trails. There are many accessible hikes in the area that take you through the mountains, by wildflowers, or up mountain peaks. Popular hikes that are nearby include the Bear Peak Summit Hike, the trails in Eldorado Canyon State Park, and Boulder Falls.

Is the Shopping Better in Asheville or Boulder?

Asheville is a great mountain town for its shopping opportunities. Also, Boulder is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its shopping areas.

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.

Many visitors go to Boulder to go shopping. The downtown area has many local retailers where you can shop for clothing, art, or home goods. You can also pick up outdoor gear, camping equipment, and any other items you may need in town. Make sure you wander down the pedestrian-friendly Pearl Street Mall.

Is Asheville or Boulder Better for Christmas?

Asheville is a great mountain town for its Christmas holiday experiences. However, Boulder does not offer Christmas activities.

Asheville is a very popular destination during Christmas. Head to the Biltmore Estate to see it fully decorated for the Christmas season. It's also worth going to see the winning Gingerbread Houses on display at the Grove Park Inn.

Boulder does not offer Christmas activities.

Is Asheville or Boulder Better for Christmas Markets?

Asheville is adequate for visiting Christmas markets. However, Boulder does not offer Christmas markets.

Asheville has some Christmas markets worth visiting during the holidays. There are a handful of local Christmas shops around town where you can buy personalized gifts.

Boulder does not offer Christmas markets.

Is Asheville or Boulder Better for Families?

Asheville is a great mountain town for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Boulder is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its family-friendly activities.

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.

Boulder is a family-friendly place to visit. The city has parks, playgrounds, a planetarium, and climbing gyms that are fun for kids of all ages. There are plenty places to get outdoors with hiking, kayaking, and other outdoor recreational activities. Eldorado Canyon State Park is a great place to explore as well.

Is Asheville or Boulder Better for Couples?

Asheville is a great mountain town for its romantic activities. Also, Boulder is not as popular, but is still a nice city for couples.

Asheville is a great mountain town 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.

Boulder is a good mountain town for couples to visit. This is a great city for couples who love outdoor adventures, hiking, rock climbing, and cycling. You can wander down Pearl Street or go for a bike ride. There are also great restaurants where you can enjoy a meal and then head to Panorama Point to take in the view.

Is Asheville or Boulder Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Asheville is a great mountain town for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Boulder is not as popular, but is still a nice city for backpackers.

Many backpackers 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.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Boulder. There are a number of backcountry areas in the region that are perfect for backpackers. The city also has a young population and several affordable places to stay.

Is Asheville or Boulder Better for Students?

Asheville and Boulder are excellent places to visit for students.

Many students visit Asheville. With its progressive personality and charming downtown, students enjoy spending time in this great town.

Boulder is a very popular mountain town for students and younger travelers. With the University of Colorado, Boulder in town, this city is a popular spot for students. It's an outdoor enthusiast's perfect base with many outdoor recreational activities in the area.

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

You'll find somewhat comparable public transit options in both Asheville and Boulder.

Public transit is generally limited in Asheville. There are buses around town, but almost everyone gets around town with their own vehicle.

Public transit is mostly limited in Boulder. There are buses that run around town, but you really need a car to fully experience everything that the city has to offer.

Is Asheville or Boulder a more walkable city?

Asheville and Boulder both are notable when exploring on foot.

Asheville is a somewhat walkable place. If you stay downtown and don't plan to explore the outlying areas, then it's possible to walk around town. Otherwise, you'll need a car.

Boulder is a somewhat walkable mountain town. The city has some nice walkable areas and it is very bike-friendly.

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

Should I spend more time in Boulder or Asheville?

How long in Asheville or Boulder?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Asheville and Boulder. In our opinion, Asheville has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Asheville than Boulder. However, 2-3 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Asheville than Boulder 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 Asheville or Boulder?

In Asheville, you'll find nightlife and live music. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. This mountain town offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

You'll find food and shopping around the city of Boulder. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. 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.

A weekend in Asheville or Boulder?

In Asheville, you'll find live music and food. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Asheville has to offer.

You'll find shopping and nightlife around the outdoorsy destination of Boulder. 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 city has to offer. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Five days in Asheville or Boulder?

Asheville is a great place to explore. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and live music when visiting the biker-friendly city of Boulder. 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.

A week in Asheville or Boulder?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Asheville. Many people enjoy the shopping and nightlife when visiting Asheville. 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.

Boulder 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.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in United States of America, The Best Polar Tours & Cruises in United States of America, The Best Walking Tours in United States of America, and The Best Tours Under $1000 in United States of America.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Asheville and Boulder, we can see that Boulder 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 Boulder would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Boulder 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 Asheville Expensive? and Is Boulder Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Asheville or Boulder?

Boulder has a larger population, and is about 33% larger than the population of Asheville. When comparing the sizes of Asheville and Boulder, 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.