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

Should you visit Asheville or Cleveland?

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 Cleveland. 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 outdoorsy, progressive, and open-minded mountain town. It's a gorgeous place to visit. This is a quaint and attractive place to visit, too. Other reasons to visit include shopping, nightlife, and live music.

Cleveland

Cleveland is a diverse, authentic, and under-rated city. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Asheville and Cleveland: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Asheville or Cleveland?

Travelers will generally find more things to do in Asheville than Cleveland. While Cleveland is larger than Asheville, Asheville has more sights and attractions for tourists. Asheville is very popular for its food, nightlife, resorts, historical sights, hiking, shopping, christmas markets, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere, while Cleveland attracts visitors for its museums. Asheville is more touristy than Cleveland and is popular for its fall foliage, artsy downtown, local North Carolina barbecue, and being home to the Biltmore Estate. It is also well known for The Biltmore Estate. Cleveland is famous for being the home to "rock 'n roll" as well as its friendly and hard working people.

How is Asheville different from Cleveland?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Cleveland is well known for its museums and landmarks. However, Asheville does not have museums and landmarks.

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around Cleveland. There are diverse museums around town such as the Cleveland Museum of Art, the Museum of Contemporary Art (moCa), and the Great Lakes Science Center. Music lovers will appreciate a visit to the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame.

Asheville does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Asheville is a nice place to visit for its restaurants. However, Cleveland is lacking in good options for its restaurant scene.

There are plenty of up and coming restaurants around 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.

You'll find the standard options when it comes to food in Cleveland. Casual dining with comfort food is the way most residents prefer to eat. There are local foods that have made a name for themselves such as gourmet hot dogs and deli sandwiches. The food is also influenced by the city's German, Irish, Polish, and Italian roots. Pierogis, bratwurst, and chicken paprikash are all common.

Is Asheville or Cleveland Better for Nightlife?

Asheville is a very popular place for nightlife. Also, Cleveland is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for nightlife and partying.

Asheville has a large number of nightlife venues. The city has a fun and eclectic nightlife scene that centers around the city's breweries and live music venues.

Cleveland has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. Breweries have become a popular nighttime activity. There are also comedy clubs, music venues, and several theaters.

Is Asheville or Cleveland Better for Music?

Live music enthusiatsts will find something to enjoy in either Asheville or Cleveland.

Music is a popular form of entertainment in Asheville. The city has grown into a world famous music destination that holds true to its mountain roots and independent artists.

The music scene in Cleveland draws a good crowd. Home to the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame, it has long been a destination for music enthusiasts. There are many independent music venues and it's the perfect place to catch a show.

Is Asheville or Cleveland Better for Resorts?

Asheville is a nice place to visit for its luxury resorts. However, Cleveland is not a resort destination.

Asheville has a handful of resorts to choose from. 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.

Cleveland is not a resort destination.

Is Asheville or Cleveland Better for its Old Town?

Asheville is a decent place to visit for its historic old town. However, Cleveland 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.

Cleveland does not have a historic old town.

Is Asheville or Cleveland Better for Hiking?

Asheville is a very popular place for its hiking trails. However, Cleveland is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors explore the nearby hiking trails while visiting 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.

Cleveland is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Asheville or Cleveland?

Asheville is a very popular place for shopping. Also, Cleveland is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its shopping opportunities.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Asheville. 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.

Cleveland offers some nice shopping areas. Large shopping malls offer plenty of selection. There's also West Side Market, which is the oldest public market in the city. Other interesting shopping areas include Little Italy and the Cleveland Flea.

Is Asheville or Cleveland Better for Christmas?

Asheville is a very popular place for its Christmas holiday experiences. However, Cleveland does not offer Christmas activities.

Since it has plenty to do, Asheville is a very popular place to visit 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.

Cleveland does not offer Christmas activities.

Is Asheville or Cleveland Better for Christmas Markets?

Asheville is a decent place to visit for visiting Christmas markets. However, Cleveland does not offer Christmas markets.

Asheville is a good spot to see some Christmas markets. There are a handful of local Christmas shops around town where you can buy personalized gifts.

Cleveland does not offer Christmas markets.

Is Asheville or Cleveland Better for Families?

Asheville is a very popular place for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Cleveland is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

Asheville is a very family-friendly destination. 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.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Cleveland. Kid-friendly activities in the area include the Children’s Museum of Cleveland, the Great Lakes Science Center, and the Cleveland Museum of Natural History. There's also the Cleveland Metroparks Zoo as well as the smaller Akron Zoo.

Is Asheville or Cleveland Better for Couples?

Asheville is a very popular place for romance. However, Cleveland is lacking in good options for its romantic activities.

Asheville makes for a fun place to visit for 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.

Most people don't think of Cleveland as a couple's destination. There are several romantic date night activities like boat rides on Lake Erie or dining at a nice restaurant.

Is Asheville or Cleveland Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Asheville is a very popular place for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Cleveland is lacking in good options for backpackers.

Asheville is very popular with the backpacker crowd. 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.

Cleveland is not the best destination for backpackers and budget travelers due to its high prices. There's little in the area that attracts the backpacker crowd.

Is Asheville or Cleveland Better for Students?

Asheville is a very popular place for its student-friendly activities. However, Cleveland is not popular with students.

Asheville is a great mountain town to visit as a student. With its progressive personality and charming downtown, students enjoy spending time in this great town.

Cleveland is not popular with students.

Is Asheville or Cleveland 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 Cleveland.

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 Cleveland. There are bus, trolley, and train lines through the city, but a car is the most efficient way to get around.

Is Asheville or Cleveland a more walkable city?

Asheville is a nice place to visit for its walkability. However, Cleveland is lacking in good options for its high level of walkability.

Asheville is somewhat walkable. 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.

Cleveland is generally not very walkable. While some neighborhoods are more walkable than others (Downtown, Ohio City and Buckeye - Shaker), most visitors need a car to easily access everything they wish to do.

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

Should I spend more time in Cleveland or Asheville?

How long in Asheville or Cleveland?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Asheville and Cleveland. In our opinion, Asheville has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Asheville than Cleveland. In general, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Asheville, and 1-3 days is enough time in Cleveland.

Families should spend more time in Asheville than Cleveland. 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 Cleveland. 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 Cleveland 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 Cleveland?

You'll find food and shopping around the mountain town of Asheville. 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.

You'll find shopping and museums around the city of Cleveland. One day is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Cleveland has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A weekend in Asheville or Cleveland?

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

You'll find museums and nightlife around the authentic destination of Cleveland. 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 Cleveland?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and live music when visiting the progressive mountain town of Asheville. 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.

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and live music when visiting the under-rated city of Cleveland. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in Asheville or Cleveland?

Asheville 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.

Cleveland is a popular choice for travelers. 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 comparing the travel costs between Asheville and Cleveland, we can see that Asheville 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 Asheville Expensive? and Is Cleveland Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Asheville or Cleveland?

Cleveland has a larger population, and is about 7 times larger than the population of Asheville. When comparing the sizes of Asheville and Cleveland, 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 Asheville or Cleveland?

Both places have a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. As both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Asheville or Cleveland in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Asheville as well as Cleveland. Many visitors come to Asheville in the summer for the hiking, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences. Additionally, most visitors come to Cleveland for the music scene and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In July, Asheville is generally a little warmer than Cleveland. Daily temperatures in Asheville average around 82°F (28°C), and Cleveland fluctuates around 75°F (24°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Cleveland. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Asheville this time of the year. In the summer, Asheville often gets less sunshine than Cleveland. Asheville gets 268 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Cleveland receives 307 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Cleveland. Asheville receives a lot of rain in the summer. Asheville usually gets more rain in July than Cleveland. Asheville gets 5.4 inches (137 mm) of rain, while Cleveland receives 4 inches (101 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Asheville or Cleveland in the Autumn?

Both Cleveland and Asheville are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Asheville for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Cleveland because of the shopping scene and the music scene.

Asheville is a little warmer than Cleveland in the autumn. The daily temperature in Asheville averages around 64°F (18°C) in October, and Cleveland fluctuates around 56°F (13°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Asheville. Asheville usually receives more sunshine than Cleveland during autumn. Asheville gets 229 hours of sunny skies, while Cleveland receives 165 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Asheville usually receives more rain than Cleveland. Asheville gets 3.4 inches (86 mm) of rain, while Cleveland receives 1.9 inches (49 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Asheville or Cleveland in the Winter?

Both Cleveland and Asheville during the winter are popular places to visit. The winter months attract visitors to Asheville because of the Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Cleveland this time of year.

It's quite cold in Cleveland in the winter. In the winter, Asheville is much warmer than Cleveland. Typically, the winter temperatures in Asheville in January average around 44°F (7°C), and Cleveland averages at about 28°F (-2°C).

In the winter, Asheville often gets more sunshine than Cleveland. Asheville gets 176 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Cleveland receives 95 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Asheville. Asheville usually gets more rain in January than Cleveland. Asheville gets 3.9 inches (100 mm) of rain, while Cleveland receives 1.5 inches (39 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Asheville or Cleveland in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Asheville and Cleveland. The natural beauty are the main draw to Asheville this time of year.

In April, Asheville is generally much warmer than Cleveland. Daily temperatures in Asheville average around 64°F (18°C), and Cleveland fluctuates around 51°F (10°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Cleveland this time of the year. In Asheville, it's very sunny this time of the year. Asheville usually receives more sunshine than Cleveland during spring. Asheville gets 266 hours of sunny skies, while Cleveland receives 213 hours of full sun in the spring.

Asheville gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In April, Asheville usually receives more rain than Cleveland. Asheville gets 4.4 inches (112 mm) of rain, while Cleveland receives 2.8 inches (71 mm) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Cleveland and Asheville