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

Should you visit Boone or Beaufort?

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

Which city is more affordable and which is best for your travel style? If you're trying to figure out where to go next, comparing the travel costs between Boone and Beaufort can help you decide which place is right for you.

Boone

Boone is a charming, relaxing, and quaint town. This is a great small town that is just waiting to be explored. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for skiing, nightlife, and food.

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.

Boone and Beaufort: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular for skiing
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Small town charm
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to the Blue Ridge Parkway
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular beach
  • Scenic old town
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Small town charm
  • Quaint atmosphere
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less family-friendly
  • Less popular with backpackers


Is there more to do in Boone or Beaufort?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Boone than Beaufort, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Boone is better known for its skiing, nightlife, hiking, shopping, and impressive beauty, while Beaufort is more popular for its food, beaches, historical sights, and quaint atmosphere. Boone is more touristy than Beaufort and is popular for its proximity to great hiking, skiing, and small town charm. Also, Boone is famous for the Blue Ridge Parkway. Beaufort is well known for its Lowcountry cuisine and historic homes.

How is Boone different from Beaufort?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Boone or Beaufort Better for Skiing?

Boone
Beaufort

Boone is notable for snow skiing. However, Beaufort is not a skiing destination.

Boone is an extremely popular place for snow skiing and other winter sports. It's a very popular ski destination in North Carolina. There are family-friendly slopes as well as more challenging options. Head to the popular Appalachian Ski Mountain, nearby Beech Mountain, or Sugar Mountain for some of the area's best skiing.

Beaufort is not a skiing destination.


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

Boone
Beaufort

You'll find a number of notable museums and attractions in both Beaufort and Boone.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Boone. Most people spend the majority of their time exploring the natural beauty, but there are also several small local museums such as the Banner House Museum.

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.

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

Boone
Beaufort

Beaufort is a great town for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Boone is not as popular, but is still a nice town 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.

Boone offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. You'll find farm to table restaurants, local cafes, and all of the standard chain restaurants nearby. Check for a High Country Grown certification if you want to prioritize locally sourced ingredients.

Is Boone or Beaufort Better for Nightlife?

Boone
Beaufort

Boone is notable for nightlife. However, Beaufort is a mediocre town for nightlife and partying.

Boone has plenty to do after the sun goes down. It's a small town, but there are local breweries and a great nightlife scene that is, in large part, influenced by the large student population.

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 Boone or Beaufort Better for Beaches?

Boone
Beaufort

Beaufort is very good for the beach. However, Boone is not a beach destination.

Many people head to Beaufort to enjoy the beach. 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.

Boone is not a beach destination.

Is Boone or Beaufort Better for its Old Town?

Boone
Beaufort

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

There is a nice variety of sights in the old town of 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.

Boone does not have a historic old town.

Is Boone or Beaufort Better for Hiking?

Boone
Beaufort

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

Boone is a popular spot for hiking. The area is filled with wonderful hikes, particularly around Grandfather Mountain and along the Blue Ridge Parkway. The famed Appalachian Trail passes through the area as well. Many hikes take you through beautiful forests, passed dramatic waterfalls, and to breathtaking viewpoints.

Beaufort is not a hiking destination.


Is the Shopping Better in Boone or Beaufort?

Boone
Beaufort

Boone is notable for shopping. Also, Beaufort is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its shopping opportunities.

Boone is an extremely popular place for shoppers. Wander along King Street for some of the town's best shopping. There are independent vendors and antique shops that are fun to pop into. The town is also known for its farmer's markets.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Beaufort. Head downtown for some souvenir shopping or to check out the art galleries or fashion boutiques.

Is Boone or Beaufort Better for Families?

Boone
Beaufort

Boone is notable for its family-friendly activities. However, Beaufort is a mediocre town for its kid-friendly activities.

Boone is a very family-friendly place to visit. Near town you'll find kid-friendly hikes, such as Linville Falls. There are also several places where kids can go ziplining or rock climbing. Parks and outdoor activities are abundant and the whole family will enjoy the setting.

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 Boone or Beaufort Better for Couples?

Boone
Beaufort

Both Boone and Beaufort are excellent destinations to visit as a couple.

Boone is a great town if you're traveling as a couple. The charming town has a romantic setting with local restaurants, beautiful hikes, and plenty of shopping. Couples enjoy staying at bed and breakfasts and enjoying the quaint atmosphere.

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.


Is Boone or Beaufort Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Boone
Beaufort

Boone 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 Boone. While there aren't many hostels in the area, there are plenty of campgrounds. The nearby Appalachian State University also ensures that there are plenty of fun activities for young visitors.

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 Boone or Beaufort Better for Students?

Boone
Beaufort

Boone is renowned for students. However, Beaufort is not popular with students.

Boone is a great destination for students. This mountain town offers a great setting for students who enjoy hiking and skiing. Appalachian State University is a fun college with plenty of activities going on.

Beaufort is not popular with students.

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

Boone
Beaufort

Boone 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 Boone. You really need a car to make the most of your time.

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


Is Boone or Beaufort a more walkable city?

Boone
Beaufort

Boone and Beaufort are excellent when it comes to walkability.

Boone is a very walkable destination. Head to King Street for the best shopping and the most pedestrian-friendly part of town.

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

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

Should I spend more time in Beaufort or Boone?

How long in Boone or Beaufort?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Boone and Beaufort. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Boone than in Beaufort. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Boone, and 1-3 days is enough time in Beaufort.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Boone 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 Boone.


  • How many days in Boone or Beaufort? Ideal Length of Stay
    Boone 2-4 
    Beaufort 1-3

One day in Boone or Beaufort?

Boone is a small town where visitors enjoy the museums and skiing. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

In Beaufort, many people enjoy the food and shopping that this character-filled small town offers. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from. Because of this, one day is usually enough time for a trip here.

A weekend in Boone or Beaufort?

Boone 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 Boone, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Beaufort. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. This would be the perfect place to spend a weekend, as it has just the right amount of activities. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.


Five days in Boone or Beaufort?

Boone 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.

Beaufort is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the museums and food when visiting the quaint small town of Beaufort. Visiting the old town is also a must. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

A week in Boone or Beaufort?

Boone 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.

You'll find food and shopping around the charming small town of Beaufort. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.


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


Which place is cheaper, Beaufort or Boone?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Boone is $173, while the average daily cost in Beaufort is $131. 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 Boone and Beaufort in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Boone $91
    Beaufort $100
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Boone $182
    Beaufort $200
Compare Hotels in Boone and Beaufort

Looking for a hotel in Boone or Beaufort? 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 Boone


Hotels in Beaufort


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: Boone Hotel Prices and Beaufort Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Boone $33
    Beaufort -

Is it cheaper to fly into Boone or Beaufort?

Prices for flights to both Beaufort and Boone 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
    Boone $53
    Beaufort $31
Typical Food Prices in Boone

Here are some examples of typical meal expenses from previous travelers to Boone:


  • Restaurant Lunch for 2
    $20

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Boone $53
    Beaufort -

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
  • Pat Conroy's Beaufort Tour by Golf Cart: $40

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Boone $26
    Beaufort -


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


Which is Bigger, Boone or Beaufort?

Boone has a larger population, and is about 5% larger than the population of Beaufort. When comparing the sizes of Boone and Beaufort, 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.