A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Beaufort vs. Roanoke for Food, Couples, Attractions, and Nightlife

Should you visit Beaufort or Roanoke?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Beaufort or Roanoke, this travel comparison, which includes costs, can help. The overall cost of travel is usually a consideration when deciding where to go next, and the cost comparison down below can help you decide based on the average prices from other travelers along with your own travel budget.

Beaufort

Beaufort is a southern, charming, and historic town. With plenty of activities and sights, this is a small town worth visiting. It offers plenty of beauty for visitors. Since it has a quaint atmosphere, you'll want to spend time soaking it all in. It's also popular because of the museums, food, and beaches.

Roanoke

Roanoke is a outdoorsy, laid back, and scenic town. It's also known for nightlife, hiking, and shopping.

Beaufort and Roanoke: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Popular beach
  • Scenic old town
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Very walkable
  • Small town charm
  • Quaint atmosphere
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less family-friendly
  • Less popular with backpackers
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for food
  • Less walkable


Is there more to do in Beaufort or Roanoke?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Beaufort than Roanoke, 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 Roanoke is more popular for its nightlife and hiking. Beaufort is well known for its Lowcountry cuisine and historic homes. Also, Beaufort is famous for Henry C. Chambers Waterfront Park. Roanoke is well known for its welcoming hospitality and convenient access to the Blue Ridge Mountains.

How is Beaufort different from Roanoke?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Beaufort or Roanoke?

Beaufort
Roanoke

Both Beaufort and Roanoke have notable landmarks and museums for visitors.

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.

Roanoke offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. There are several museums and sights around town such as the Living-Coral Reef Aquarium, the Science Museum of Western Virginia, and the Taubman Museum of Art. There's also the Harrison Museum of African American Culture and even the Roanoke Pinball Museum.


Is the Food Better in Beaufort or Roanoke? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Beaufort
Roanoke

Beaufort is a great town for its local flavors and cuisine. However, Roanoke is not known for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Beaufort has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. 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.

Roanoke offers some easy restaurants to choose from. There are burger joints, pizza restaurants, and plenty of other casual eateries where you can grab a quick meal.

Is Beaufort or Roanoke Better for Nightlife?

Beaufort
Roanoke

Roanoke 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 Roanoke. There are local venues in the area that have drinks and often live music. You'll find jazz, country, rock, and bluegrass, particularly along Crooked Road in Franklin County.

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 Beaufort or Roanoke Better for Beaches?

Beaufort
Roanoke

Beaufort is a popular place for the beach. However, Roanoke 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.

Roanoke is not a beach destination.


Is Beaufort or Roanoke Better for its Old Town?

Beaufort
Roanoke

Beaufort is a great town for its historic old town charm. However, Roanoke does not have a 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.

Roanoke does not have a historic old town.

Is Beaufort or Roanoke Better for Hiking?

Beaufort
Roanoke

Roanoke is notable for the nearby hiking options. However, Beaufort is not a hiking destination.

Roanoke is a popular spot for hiking. The surrounding countryside is filled with mountain hikes. The Blue Ridge Mountains are crossed by trails that take you to waterfalls, scenic viewpoints, and through serene forest. McAfee Knob, Sharp Top Mountain, and Roaring Run Trail some of the best hikes in the area.

Beaufort is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Beaufort or Roanoke?

Beaufort
Roanoke

Both Beaufort and Roanoke are notable shopping destinations.

Beaufort is a great destination for shopping. Head downtown for some souvenir shopping or to check out the art galleries or fashion boutiques.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Roanoke. Market Street in Downtown Roanoke is lined with local vendors, particularly at the Historic Roanoke City Market. The town also has a mall and several shopping centers.


Is Beaufort or Roanoke Better for Families?

Beaufort
Roanoke

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

Roanoke is a family-friendly place to visit. The Blue Ridge Parkway is filled with kid-friendly hiking trails and fun outdoor activities. You can visit the Blue Ridge Institute & Farm Museum or Smith Mountain Lake Farm. There's also Virginia 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 Beaufort or Roanoke Better for Couples?

Beaufort
Roanoke

Beaufort and Roanoke are both very good to visit as a couple.

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.

Roanoke makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Staying at a quaint bed and breakfast, tucked into the beautiful mountain setting is the perfect romantic getaway. Nearby there are vineyards and wine cellars, as well as gardens, hikes, and other outdoor activities.

Is Beaufort or Roanoke Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Beaufort
Roanoke

Roanoke is a nice place to visit for backpackers. However, Beaufort is a mediocre town for backpackers and budget travelers.

It's common for backpackers to visit Roanoke. There are several campgrounds in the area as well as great hiking trails.

Beaufort is not the best destination for backpackers and budget travelers due to its high prices. There aren't any real places for backpackers to stay in the area.


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

Beaufort
Roanoke

Roanoke is a moderate town 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 Roanoke. There are buses as well as a free trolley service through the downtown, but you really do need a car to get most places.

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

Is Beaufort or Roanoke a more walkable city?

Beaufort
Roanoke

Beaufort is a great town for its ease of walking around. However, Roanoke is not known for its walkability.

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

Roanoke is generally not very walkable. The downtown area is the most walkable part of town, with sidewalks and more dense development styles.

For even more information, also check out Is Beaufort Worth Visiting? and Is Roanoke Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Roanoke or Beaufort?

How long in Beaufort or Roanoke?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Beaufort and Roanoke. In our opinion, Roanoke has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Roanoke than Beaufort. However, 1-3 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Roanoke than Beaufort 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 Roanoke.


  • How many days in Beaufort or Roanoke? Ideal Length of Stay
    Beaufort 1-3 
    Roanoke 1-3

One day in Beaufort or Roanoke?

Beaufort is a small town with plenty to do. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. This town offers something for everyone. This would be the perfect place to spend one day, as it has just the right amount of activities.

The town of Roanoke offers nightlife and shopping. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one day here. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.


A weekend in Beaufort or Roanoke?

Beaufort might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Visiting the old town is also a must. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Beaufort has to offer.

Roanoke is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this town makes for a great vacation. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Roanoke, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Beaufort or Roanoke?

Beaufort is a great place to explore. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. 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.

Roanoke 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.

A week in Beaufort or Roanoke?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Beaufort. Since Beaufort is a small town, it's easily explored when your time is limited. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

Roanoke is a great place to explore. 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. This town offers something for everyone.


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


Which place is cheaper, Roanoke or Beaufort?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Beaufort is $131, while the average daily cost in Roanoke is $164. 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 Beaufort and Roanoke in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Beaufort $100
    Roanoke $96
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Beaufort $200
    Roanoke $192
Compare Hotels in Beaufort and Roanoke

Looking for a hotel in Beaufort or Roanoke? 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 Beaufort


Hotels in Roanoke


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: Beaufort Hotel Prices and Roanoke Hotel Prices.

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

Is it cheaper to fly into Beaufort or Roanoke?

Prices for flights to both Roanoke and Beaufort 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
    Beaufort $31
    Roanoke $48

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Roanoke

For Roanoke, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Roanoke Ebike Food Tour: $150

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Beaufort -
    Roanoke $35

Tours and Activities in Beaufort

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

  • Beaufort Tipsy Tour: $55
  • Gullah Heritage Tour: $49
  • Historic City Tour by Bus: $29
  • Local History and Film Sites Tour by golf cart: $32
  • Pat Conroy's Beaufort Tour by Golf Cart: $40

Tours and Activities in Roanoke

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Roanoke.

  • Blue Ridge Parkway Virginia Audio Driving Tour: $13
  • Blue Ridge Parkway (Virginia) Driving Tour with Audio Guide: $13
  • Blue Ridge Parkway (Roanoke to Afton) Self-Guided Audio Tour: $15
  • Blue Ridge Parkway – Driving Audio Tour (Roanoke ↔ Afton): $15
  • Complete Blue Ridge Parkway Tour Bundle: $25
  • Downtown Roanoke Food, History & Cultural Tour: $78
  • Roanoke Holiday Season E-Bike Tour: $92
  • Mountain Bike Tour from The Roanoke Star: $139

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Beaufort -
    Roanoke $30


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


Which is Bigger, Beaufort or Roanoke?

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

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 Beaufort or Roanoke in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Beaufort as well as Roanoke. Many visitors come to Beaufort in the summer for the beaches, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Roanoke for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In July, Beaufort is generally around the same temperature as Roanoke. Daily temperatures in Beaufort average around 82°F (28°C), and Roanoke fluctuates around 79°F (26°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Roanoke. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Beaufort this time of the year. In the summer, Beaufort often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Roanoke. Beaufort gets 267 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Roanoke receives 273 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Roanoke. Beaufort receives a lot of rain in the summer. Beaufort usually gets more rain in July than Roanoke. Beaufort gets 7.9 inches (200 mm) of rain, while Roanoke receives 4.2 inches (106 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Beaufort 82°F (28°C) 
    Roanoke 79°F (26°C)

Should I visit Beaufort or Roanoke in the Autumn?

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

Beaufort is a little warmer than Roanoke in the autumn. The daily temperature in Beaufort averages around 68°F (20°C) in October, and Roanoke fluctuates around 60°F (16°C).

It's quite sunny in Roanoke. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Beaufort. Beaufort usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Roanoke during autumn. Beaufort gets 223 hours of sunny skies, while Roanoke receives 210 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Beaufort usually receives less rain than Roanoke. Beaufort gets 2.8 inches (71 mm) of rain, while Roanoke receives 3.7 inches (94 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Beaufort 68°F (20°C) 
    Roanoke 60°F (16°C)

Should I visit Beaufort or Roanoke in the Winter?

Both Roanoke and Beaufort during the winter are popular places to visit. The winter months attract visitors to Beaufort because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Furthermore, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Roanoke this time of year.

It's quite cold in Roanoke in the winter. In the winter, Beaufort is much warmer than Roanoke. Typically, the winter temperatures in Beaufort in January average around 48°F (9°C), and Roanoke averages at about 38°F (3°C).

In the winter, Beaufort often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Roanoke. Beaufort gets 176 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Roanoke receives 165 hours of full sun.

Beaufort usually gets around the same amount of rain in January as Roanoke. Beaufort gets 2.9 inches (74 mm) of rain, while Roanoke receives 2.9 inches (73 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Beaufort 48°F (9°C) 
    Roanoke 38°F (3°C)

Should I visit Beaufort or Roanoke in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Beaufort and Roanoke. The beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty are the main draw to Beaufort this time of year.

In April, Beaufort is generally a little warmer than Roanoke. Daily temperatures in Beaufort average around 67°F (19°C), and Roanoke fluctuates around 59°F (15°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Roanoke this time of the year. In Beaufort, it's very sunny this time of the year. Beaufort usually receives more sunshine than Roanoke during spring. Beaufort gets 275 hours of sunny skies, while Roanoke receives 246 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Beaufort usually receives around the same amount of rain as Roanoke. Beaufort gets 2.9 inches (74 mm) of rain, while Roanoke receives 3.1 inches (79 mm) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Beaufort 67°F (19°C) 
    Roanoke 59°F (15°C)

Typical Weather for Roanoke and Beaufort

Beaufort Roanoke
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 48°F (9°C) 2.9 inches (74 mm) 38°F (3°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm)
Feb 52°F (11°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm) 41°F (5°C) 3 inches (77 mm)
Mar 58°F (15°C) 4.4 inches (112 mm) 50°F (10°C) 3.5 inches (88 mm)
Apr 67°F (19°C) 2.9 inches (74 mm) 59°F (15°C) 3.1 inches (79 mm)
May 73°F (23°C) 4.2 inches (107 mm) 68°F (20°C) 3.9 inches (99 mm)
Jun 80°F (26°C) 5.9 inches (150 mm) 75°F (24°C) 3.4 inches (88 mm)
Jul 82°F (28°C) 7.9 inches (200 mm) 79°F (26°C) 4.2 inches (106 mm)
Aug 81°F (27°C) 6.5 inches (164 mm) 78°F (26°C) 3.6 inches (91 mm)
Sep 77°F (25°C) 5.6 inches (141 mm) 72°F (22°C) 3.2 inches (82 mm)
Oct 68°F (20°C) 2.8 inches (71 mm) 60°F (16°C) 3.7 inches (94 mm)
Nov 59°F (15°C) 1.9 inches (49 mm) 51°F (11°C) 3.1 inches (80 mm)
Dec 52°F (11°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm) 42°F (5°C) 3.2 inches (82 mm)