A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Boca Raton vs. Asheville for Food, Nightlife, Resorts, and Hiking

Should you visit Boca Raton or Asheville?

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 Boca Raton and Asheville. 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.

Boca Raton

Boca Raton is a outdoorsy, relaxed, and luxurious coastal city. And you can't forget about the scuba diving and snorkeling, beaches, and hiking.

Asheville

Asheville is a open-minded, eclectic, and outdoorsy mountain town. It offers plenty of beauty for visitors. As this is a very quaint destination, you'll find it has a special atmosphere. It's also popular because of the live music, food, and hiking.

Boca Raton and Asheville: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Boca Raton or Asheville?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Boca Raton. Although Boca Raton and Asheville are roughly the same size, Boca Raton has more sights and attractions for tourists. Boca Raton is more popular for its museums, food, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, and beaches, while Asheville is known for its music, historical sights, hiking, christmas markets, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere. Boca Raton is popular for its golf courses, outdoor recreational activities, and safe atmosphere. It is also home to Red Reef Park. Asheville is popular for its fall foliage, artsy downtown, local North Carolina barbecue, and being home to the Biltmore Estate.

How is Boca Raton different from Asheville?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Boca Raton or Asheville?

Boca Raton 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 Boca Raton. While most visitors focus on the beaches and outdoor activities in the area, there are also a surprising number of museums that you can visit. On a rainy day head to the Boca Raton Museum of Art or the Schmidt Boca Raton History Museum. Sports enthusiasts will like the Sports Immortals Museum and kids will want to check out the Children's Science Explorium.

Asheville does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Boca Raton is well known for its restaurant scene. Also, Asheville is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Boca Raton. You'll find a mix of local and international flavors with both casual and upscale dining available. Reservations are recommended, particularly on weekend nights. For the health-conscious, there's also a nice selection of healthy eateries to choose from.

Asheville is becoming an appealing option for foodies. 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.

Is Boca Raton or Asheville Better for Nightlife?

The vibe at night is excellent in both Boca Raton and Asheville.

Many people head to Boca Raton for the nightlife scene. You'll find plenty of upscale wine bars, cocktail bars, and live music venues that will keep you entertained late into the evening.

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.

Is Boca Raton or Asheville Better for Music?

Asheville is great for its music scene. However, Boca Raton is not a live music destination.

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

Boca Raton is not a live music destination.

Is Boca Raton or Asheville Better for Resorts?

Boca Raton is well known for its resorts. Also, Asheville is still popular, but not quite as popular for its luxury resorts.

There are plenty of resorts in Boca Raton to choose from. You'll find many luxury beachside resorts that offer all of the amenities, from access to golf course to family-friendly kids clubs.

Asheville has a few great resort options. 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.

Is Boca Raton or Asheville Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Boca Raton is a good destination for its diving and snorkeling. However, Asheville is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Grab a mask and fins and explore the underwater scenery in Boca Raton. Head to the "Aqua Zoo", which is just to the south of Boca Inlet to see stingrays, groupers, and moray eels. Red Reef Park offers excellent snorkeling as well.

Asheville is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Boca Raton or Asheville Better for Beaches?

Boca Raton is an unbeatable place for the beache. However, Asheville is not a beach destination.

Boca Raton offers stunning beaches that attract visitors from around the world. There's a two mile stretch of beautiful sandy beaches that are all monitored by lifeguards. The beaches offer all of the facilities that you might need such as picnic areas, restrooms, and showers. Many beaches are part of park land and some offer nice snorkeling. Some of the most popular beaches in the area include Spanish River Park, Bark Park Dog Beach, Red Reef Beach, and South Beach Park.

Asheville is not a beach destination.

Is Boca Raton or Asheville Better for its Old Town?

Asheville is adequate for its historic old town charm. However, Boca Raton does not have a historic old town.

The old town area in Asheville is worth visiting. Downtown Asheville maintains much of its historic vibe, but it's smaller than some of the more notable old cities around the country.

Boca Raton does not have a historic old town.

Is Boca Raton or Asheville Better for Hiking?

Asheville is great for hiking. Also, Boca Raton is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal city for the nearby hiking options.

Many visitors go to Asheville for the hiking trails. 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.

Boca Raton is a good destination for hiking. There's a surprising number of nature parks in the area that have hiking trails, nature walks, and beach paths that are fun to explore.

Is the Shopping Better in Boca Raton or Asheville?

If you're looking to go shopping, Boca Raton and Asheville both offer plenty of excellent spots.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in Boca Raton. It's an upscale area, and you'll find no shortage of luxury shopping around town. Popular areas for shopping include Downtown Boca, Mizner Park, and the Town Center at Boca Raton.

Asheville is an extremely popular place for shoppers. 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.

Is Boca Raton or Asheville Better for Christmas?

Asheville is great for its Christmas holiday experiences. However, Boca Raton 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.

Boca Raton does not offer Christmas activities.

Is Boca Raton or Asheville Better for Christmas Markets?

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

During the holidays, visitors often browse through the Christmas markets in Asheville. There are a handful of local Christmas shops around town where you can buy personalized gifts.

Boca Raton does not offer Christmas markets.

Is Boca Raton or Asheville Better for Families?

Both Boca Raton and Asheville are excellent family-friendly destinations.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Boca Raton. It's an upscale area with a family-friendly atmosphere and plenty of outdoor activities to choose from. Many of the hotels have kids clubs that will keep the young ones entertained. The area also has nature centers, children's museums, and waterparks that will ensure everyone stays entertained.

Asheville is a very family-friendly place to visit. 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 Boca Raton or Asheville Better for Couples?

Boca Raton and Asheville both excellent destinations for a couple.

Boca Raton is a great coastal city if you're traveling as a couple. There's an upscale vibe with plenty of nature trails and nice beaches. Many of the hotels offer a touch of luxury that honeymooning couples will appreciate. You can also head to the downtown area for music, events, and museums.

Asheville is a very popular place to visit for couples. 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.

Is Boca Raton or Asheville Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Asheville is great for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Boca Raton is not a good destination for backpackers.

Plenty of budget travelers and 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.

Boca Raton is not the best destination for backpackers and budget travelers due to its high prices. It's known for its upscale luxury, and you won't find much in the form of hostels or backpacker-friendly accommodation.

Is Boca Raton or Asheville Better for Students?

Asheville is great for its student-friendly activities. However, Boca Raton is not popular with students.

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

Boca Raton is not popular with students.

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

Boca Raton 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 Boca Raton, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. The Downtowner is a fleet of free, oversized golf cars that shuttle visitors around town, passing by many top sites such as Mizner Park, Red Reef Park, and the Gumbo Limbo Nature Center. There's also a public bus system, Palm Tran, that offers service around town.

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

Is Boca Raton or Asheville a more walkable city?

Boca Raton and Asheville are good when it comes to walkability.

Boca Raton is a somewhat walkable coastal city. There are some communities within the city that are more walkable than others, particularly East Boca Raton, Royal Palm Place, and Mizner Park. There are also many pedestrian and bike paths around town. Even so, you really must have a car to explore the area in depth.

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.

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

Should I spend more time in Asheville or Boca Raton?

How long in Boca Raton or Asheville?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Boca Raton and Asheville. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Boca Raton than in Asheville. Usually, 3-5 days is a good amount of time for Boca Raton, and 2-3 days is enough time in Asheville.

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

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

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

You'll find nightlife and food around the coastal city of Boca Raton. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. 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.

With shopping and nightlife around the progressive mountain town of Asheville, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Boca Raton or Asheville?

You'll find food and scuba diving and snorkeling around the posh destination of Boca Raton. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. This coastal city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

With nightlife and live music around the destination of Asheville, there's plenty to do. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. It offers something for everyone. Many people spend a weekend here. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this mountain town.

Five days in Boca Raton or Asheville?

You'll find scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping around the relaxed coastal city of Boca Raton. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this coastal city makes for a great vacation. It's also a relaxing resort destination. Most people head to the area for the beaches. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this coastal city has to offer.

Asheville, a popular mountain town, is full of activities for travelers. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

A week in Boca Raton or Asheville?

Boca Raton is a popular choice for travelers. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. 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.

Asheville is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Historical Tours in United States of America, The Best 10-Day Tours in United States of America, The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in United States of America, and The Best 2-Week Tours in United States of America.

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

Which is Bigger, Boca Raton or Asheville?

Boca Raton has a larger population, and is about 17% larger than the population of Asheville. When comparing the sizes of Boca Raton and Asheville, 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 Boca Raton or Asheville?

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 Boca Raton or Asheville in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Boca Raton as well as Asheville. The summer months attract visitors to Boca Raton because of the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences. Additionally, the hiking, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Asheville this time of year.

In July, Boca Raton is generally around the same temperature as Asheville. Daily temperatures in Boca Raton average around 82°F (28°C), and Asheville fluctuates around 82°F (28°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Asheville. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Boca Raton this time of the year. In the summer, Boca Raton often gets more sunshine than Asheville. Boca Raton gets 316 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Asheville receives 268 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Asheville. Boca Raton receives a lot of rain in the summer. Boca Raton usually gets more rain in July than Asheville. Boca Raton gets 6.5 inches (166 mm) of rain, while Asheville receives 5.4 inches (137 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Boca Raton or Asheville in the Autumn?

Both Asheville and Boca Raton are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The hiking trails and the shopping scene are the main draw to Boca Raton this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Asheville for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

Boca Raton is a little warmer than Asheville in the autumn. The daily temperature in Boca Raton averages around 78°F (25°C) in October, and Asheville fluctuates around 64°F (18°C).

It's quite sunny in Asheville. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Boca Raton. Boca Raton usually receives more sunshine than Asheville during autumn. Boca Raton gets 275 hours of sunny skies, while Asheville receives 229 hours of full sun in the autumn.

It's quite rainy in Boca Raton. In October, Boca Raton usually receives more rain than Asheville. Boca Raton gets 8.7 inches (222 mm) of rain, while Asheville receives 3.4 inches (86 mm) of rain each month for the autumn. The hurricane season in Boca Raton is June to November.

Should I visit Boca Raton or Asheville in the Winter?

Both Asheville and Boca Raton during the winter are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Boca Raton for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Asheville in the winter for the Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

In the winter, Boca Raton is much warmer than Asheville. Typically, the winter temperatures in Boca Raton in January average around 65°F (19°C), and Asheville averages at about 44°F (7°C).

It's quite sunny in Boca Raton. In the winter, Boca Raton often gets more sunshine than Asheville. Boca Raton gets 243 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Asheville receives 176 hours of full sun.

Asheville gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Boca Raton usually gets less rain in January than Asheville. Boca Raton gets 2.6 inches (66 mm) of rain, while Asheville receives 3.9 inches (100 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Boca Raton or Asheville in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Boca Raton and Asheville. Many visitors come to Boca Raton in the spring for the beaches. Also, most visitors come to Asheville for the natural beauty during these months.

In April, Boca Raton is generally a little warmer than Asheville. Daily temperatures in Boca Raton average around 74°F (23°C), and Asheville fluctuates around 64°F (18°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Asheville this time of the year. In Boca Raton, it's very sunny this time of the year. Boca Raton usually receives more sunshine than Asheville during spring. Boca Raton gets 300 hours of sunny skies, while Asheville receives 266 hours of full sun in the spring.

Asheville receives a lot of rain in the spring. In April, Boca Raton usually receives less rain than Asheville. Boca Raton gets 3.5 inches (89 mm) of rain, while Asheville receives 4.4 inches (112 mm) of rain each month for the spring. June to November is the hurricane season in Boca Raton.

Typical Weather for Asheville and Boca Raton