A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Asheville vs. Niagara Falls for Families, Nightlife, Hiking, and Couples

Should you visit Asheville or Niagara Falls?

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 Niagara Falls. 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 eclectic, outdoorsy, and progressive mountain town. It's a beautiful place to visit, too. This destination also has one of those special and quaint feelings. And you can't forget about the food, hiking, and shopping.

Niagara Falls

Niagara Falls is a breathtaking, impressive, and iconic city. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the hiking, shopping, and nightlife.

Asheville and Niagara Falls: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Asheville or Niagara Falls?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Asheville than Niagara Falls, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Asheville is better known for its nightlife, music, resorts, historical sights, shopping, christmas markets, and quaint atmosphere, while Niagara Falls is more popular for its museums & sights and impressive beauty. Niagara Falls is more touristy than Asheville and is known for the large volume of water that flows over it. 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.

How is Asheville different from Niagara Falls?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Niagara Falls 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 Niagara Falls?

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

Niagara Falls offers a handful of options for museums and historical sights. The Niagara Falls History Museum is one of the best museums in the area. There are also more touristy museums and attractions that you can visit as well. There's also a butterfly conservancy that is worth checking out.

Asheville does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Dining out at restaurants in both Asheville and Niagara Falls 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.

Niagara Falls is becoming an appealing option for foodies. It's an iconic Canadian destination so, of course, you should try all things Canadian while you're in town. Maple syrup, poutine, butter tart, and beavertail (fried dough) are all things that should be on your list. Also make sure you sample some of the local game meat.

Is Asheville or Niagara Falls Better for Nightlife?

Asheville is notable for nightlife and partying. Also, Niagara Falls is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its evening party scene.

Asheville has plenty to do after the sun goes down. The city has a fun and eclectic nightlife scene that centers around the city's breweries and live music venues.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Niagara Falls. There's a decent concentration of clubs, pubs, and bars around town that keep things fun late into the evening.

Is Asheville or Niagara Falls Better for Music?

Asheville is notable for its live music scene. However, Niagara Falls is not a live music destination.

If you love music, you'll find something to enjoy in Asheville. The city has grown into a world famous music destination that holds true to its mountain roots and independent artists.

Niagara Falls is not a live music destination.

Is Asheville or Niagara Falls Better for Resorts?

Asheville is a popular place for its resorts. However, Niagara Falls 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.

Niagara Falls is not a resort destination.

Is Asheville or Niagara Falls Better for its Old Town?

Asheville is a moderate mountain town for its old town. However, Niagara Falls 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.

Niagara Falls does not have a historic old town.

Is Asheville or Niagara Falls Better for Hiking?

Hiking trails can be found around both Asheville and Niagara Falls, and they are superb.

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 Niagara Falls for the hiking trails. The nearby area is filled with hiking trails that let you escape into nature and enjoy impressive views.

Is the Shopping Better in Asheville or Niagara Falls?

Asheville is notable for its shopping opportunities. Also, Niagara Falls is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its shopping areas.

Asheville is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. 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.

Niagara Falls has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. You'll find touristy souvenir shops as well as outlets and malls nearby.

Is Asheville or Niagara Falls Better for Christmas?

Asheville is notable for its Christmas activities. However, Niagara Falls does not offer Christmas activities.

Asheville is an extremely popular place to visit during the Christmas season. 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.

Niagara Falls does not offer Christmas activities.

Is Asheville or Niagara Falls Better for Christmas Markets?

Asheville is a moderate mountain town for its Christmas markets. However, Niagara Falls 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.

Niagara Falls does not offer Christmas markets.

Is Asheville or Niagara Falls Better for Families?

Niagara Falls is an unbeatable place for its family-friendly activities. Also, Asheville is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

With a huge array of activities for kids, Niagara Falls is very family-friendly. The views and setting are spectacular, and kids will love the boat tours or taking a ride on the Whirlpool Aero Car. There's also an indoor waterpark, a butterfly conservatory, and plenty of nature to explore.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Asheville. 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.

Is Asheville or Niagara Falls Better for Couples?

Asheville and Niagara Falls both superb destinations for a couple.

Couples visit Asheville frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. 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.

Niagara Falls is a great mountain town if you're traveling as a couple. The setting has long brought to mind romance, and to this day couples still honeymoon at this iconic destination. There are boat tours, nature trails, luxury hotels, and even wineries to explore.

Is Asheville or Niagara Falls Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Asheville is notable for backpackers. Also, Niagara Falls is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Asheville is a great mountain town to visit for backpackers. 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.

Niagara Falls is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. There's a hostel or two where you can stay for cheap and meet other travelers.

Is Asheville or Niagara Falls Better for Students?

Asheville is notable for students. However, Niagara Falls is not popular with students.

Asheville is a very popular mountain town for students and younger travelers. With its progressive personality and charming downtown, students enjoy spending time in this great town.

Niagara Falls is not popular with students.

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

Niagara Falls is a good destination for its public transit. However, Asheville is not particularly known for times when you don't have a car.

You'll find some public transit in Niagara Falls, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There is a bus system through town.

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

Is Asheville or Niagara Falls a more walkable city?

Asheville and Niagara Falls 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.

Niagara Falls is a somewhat walkable mountain town. Most of the attractions and close together by the falls, so it's relatively walkable.

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

Should I spend more time in Niagara Falls or Asheville?

How long in Asheville or Niagara Falls?

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

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

Couples should spend more time in Asheville than Niagara Falls. 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 Niagara Falls 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 Niagara Falls?

Many travelers enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the progressive destination of Asheville. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. Your budget might influence how long you stay. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

You'll find food and shopping around the city of Niagara Falls. 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 Niagara Falls?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Asheville. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. 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.

You'll find shopping and nightlife around the breathtaking destination of Niagara Falls. 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 Niagara Falls?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and live music when visiting the progressive destination of Asheville. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. This mountain 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.

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the iconic city of Niagara Falls. 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 Niagara Falls?

You'll find live music and food around the mountain town of Asheville. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. 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.

Niagara Falls 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 Adventure Tours to United States of America, The Best Train & Rail Tours in United States of America, The Best Tours for Seniors to Canada, and The Best Contiki Tours to Canada.

When comparing the travel costs between Asheville and Niagara Falls, 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 Niagara Falls Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Asheville or Niagara Falls?

Niagara Falls has a larger population, and is about 19% larger than the population of Asheville. When comparing the sizes of Asheville and Niagara Falls, 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 Niagara Falls?

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 Asheville or Niagara Falls in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Asheville and Niagara Falls. The hiking, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Asheville this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Niagara Falls for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences.

Asheville is a little warmer than Niagara Falls in the summer. The daily temperature in Asheville averages around 82°F (28°C) in July, and Niagara Falls fluctuates around 23°C (74°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Niagara Falls this time of the year. In Asheville, it's very sunny this time of the year. Asheville usually receives less sunshine than Niagara Falls during summer. Asheville gets 268 hours of sunny skies, while Niagara Falls receives 306 hours of full sun in the summer.

Asheville gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In July, Asheville usually receives more rain than Niagara Falls. Asheville gets 5.4 inches (137 mm) of rain, while Niagara Falls receives 69 mm (2.7 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Asheville or Niagara Falls in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Asheville as well as Niagara Falls. Many travelers come to Asheville for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, many visitors come to Niagara Falls in the autumn for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Asheville is a little warmer than Niagara Falls. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Asheville in October average around 64°F (18°C), and Niagara Falls averages at about 12°C (54°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Asheville this time of the year. In the autumn, Asheville often gets more sunshine than Niagara Falls. Asheville gets 229 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Niagara Falls receives 148 hours of full sun.

Asheville usually gets more rain in October than Niagara Falls. Asheville gets 3.4 inches (86 mm) of rain, while Niagara Falls receives 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Asheville or Niagara Falls in the Winter?

Both Niagara Falls and Asheville are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Asheville in the winter for the Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Niagara Falls for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Niagara Falls can be very cold during winter. In January, Asheville is generally much warmer than Niagara Falls. Daily temperatures in Asheville average around 44°F (7°C), and Niagara Falls fluctuates around -4°C (26°F).

Asheville usually receives more sunshine than Niagara Falls during winter. Asheville gets 176 hours of sunny skies, while Niagara Falls receives 89 hours of full sun in the winter.

It's quite rainy in Asheville. In January, Asheville usually receives more rain than Niagara Falls. Asheville gets 3.9 inches (100 mm) of rain, while Niagara Falls receives 52 mm (2 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Asheville or Niagara Falls in the Spring?

Both Niagara Falls and Asheville during the spring are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Asheville for the natural beauty during these months. Furthermore, the spring months attract visitors to Niagara Falls because of the natural beauty.

Asheville is much warmer than Niagara Falls in the spring. The daily temperature in Asheville averages around 64°F (18°C) in April, and Niagara Falls fluctuates around 10°C (49°F).

In Niagara Falls, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Asheville. In the spring, Asheville often gets more sunshine than Niagara Falls. Asheville gets 266 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Niagara Falls receives 203 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Asheville. Asheville usually gets more rain in April than Niagara Falls. Asheville gets 4.4 inches (112 mm) of rain, while Niagara Falls receives 63 mm (2.5 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Niagara Falls and Asheville