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

Should you visit Boone or Nashville?

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 Nashville can help you decide which place is right for you.

Boone

Boone is a relaxing, quaint, and picturesque town. It offers plenty of small town charm along with sights and activities, too. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Other reasons to visit include hiking, shopping, and museums.

Nashville

Nashville is a country music lovers, eclectic, and southern city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and live music.

Boone and Nashville: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular for skiing
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good for hiking
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Very walkable
  • Small town charm
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to the Blue Ridge Parkway
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Nice resorts
  • Popular at Christmas
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for shopping
  • Less popular for students
  • Less walkable


Is there more to do in Boone or Nashville?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Nashville than Boone, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Nashville is better known for its music, resorts, and big city activities, while Boone is more popular for its skiing, hiking, shopping, small town charm, and impressive beauty. Boone is more touristy than Nashville and is known for its proximity to great hiking, skiing, and small town charm. Nashville is well known for its influence in country music and its many live music venues. Also, Nashville is famous for The Grand Ole Opry.

How is Boone different from Nashville?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Boone or Nashville Better for Skiing?

Boone
Nashville

Boone is a very popular place for skiing and snowboarding. However, Nashville is not a skiing destination.

Boone offers world-class skiing that is fun for everyone. 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.

Nashville is not a skiing destination.


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

Boone
Nashville

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

Nashville is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. It is famous as the home of the Grand Ole Opry. It's also where you'll find the Country Music Hall of Fame and the unique Johnny Cash Museum.

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

Boone
Nashville

Picking the best cuisine and restaurants between Boone and Nashville can be difficult as they are each notable in their own way.

Boone is becoming an appealing option for foodies. 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.

Nashville offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. The city is known for some southern favorites including southern barbecue, mac and cheese, and biscuits and gravy.

Is Boone or Nashville Better for Nightlife?

Boone
Nashville

If the nightlife is your priority, you'll find superb options in both Boone and Nashville.

The nightlife in Boone has something for everybody. 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.

Nashville offers plenty to do in the evening. The city is popular for it's music scene, particularly the country music scene. You can take in one of the free Honky Tonks or head to a rooftop bar. It's also a popular destination for bachelor and bachelorette parties.


Is Boone or Nashville Better for Music?

Boone
Nashville

Nashville is an amazing city to visit for its music scene. However, Boone is not a live music destination.

Nashville has become a mecca for musicians from around the world. The city is famous for country music, blues, and rock and roll. Popular venues include The Basement, The 5 Spot, and The Cannery Complex.

Boone is not a live music destination.

Is Boone or Nashville Better for Resorts?

Boone
Nashville

Nashville is very good for its luxury resorts. However, Boone is not a resort destination.

Nashville has a few great resort options. There are a couple of famous resorts in the area including the Gaylord Opryland Resort, the Hermitage Hotel, and the Omni Nashville Hotel.

Boone is not a resort destination.

Is Boone or Nashville Better for Hiking?

Boone
Nashville

Boone is a very popular place for its hiking trails. However, Nashville is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors explore the nearby hiking trails while visiting Boone. 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.

Nashville is not a hiking destination.


Is the Shopping Better in Boone or Nashville?

Boone
Nashville

Boone is a very popular place for shopping. However, Nashville is lacking in good options for its shopping opportunities.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Boone. 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.

If you're looking to go shopping, Nashville has some nice offerings. The town has a number of boutique shops as well as major department stores. You'll find all of the major American chains around town.

Is Boone or Nashville Better for Christmas?

Boone
Nashville

Nashville is very good for its Christmas holiday experiences. However, Boone does not offer Christmas activities.

Nashville worth visiting during the Christmas season. Several different venues decorate beautifully for the Christmas season including the Gaylord Opryland.

Boone does not offer Christmas activities.

Is Boone or Nashville Better for Families?

Boone
Nashville

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

Boone is a very family-friendly destination. 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.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Nashville. The city has a handful of kid-friendly activities like a science center and kid-friendly music venues.


Is Boone or Nashville Better for Couples?

Boone
Nashville

Boone is a very popular place for romance. Also, Nashville is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its romantic activities.

Boone makes for a fun place to visit for 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.

Nashville makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. For music lovers, this is the ultimate couple's destination. There are also a number of romantic activities around town including horse drawn carriage rides through the downtown. To enjoy the beautiful weather, head to Centennial Park or take a hike in Forest Hills.

Is Boone or Nashville Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Boone
Nashville

For backpackers, both Boone and Nashville are notable places to visit.

Boone is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. 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.

It's common for backpackers to visit Nashville. There are one or two hostels around town and there's a great live music scene that attracts a young crowd.

Is Boone or Nashville Better for Students?

Boone
Nashville

Boone is a world-class destination for its student-friendly activities. However, Nashville is lacking in good options for students.

Boone is a very popular town 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.

Nashville is a decent spot for students. Several universities bring in international students, but the city is smaller and it isn't the most popular student destination in America.


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

Boone
Nashville

Boone is a decent place to visit for times when you don't have a car. However, Nashville is lacking in good options for its public transit.

Public transit is mostly limited in Boone. You really need a car to make the most of your time.

Public transit is limited or non-existant in Nashville. Public transportation is very limited and you really need a car to explore the city in depth.

Is Boone or Nashville a more walkable city?

Boone
Nashville

Boone is a very popular place for its walkability. However, Nashville is lacking in good options for its high level of walkability.

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

Nashville is not a walkable town. There aren't many parts of the city that are pedestrian-friendly.

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

Should I spend more time in Nashville or Boone?

How long in Boone or Nashville?

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

Families should spend more time in Boone than Nashville. 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 Nashville. 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 Nashville 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 Nashville? Ideal Length of Stay
    Boone 2-4 
    Nashville 2-3

One day in Boone or Nashville?

Even though Boone is a small town, it has plenty of activities to choose from. 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.

In Nashville, many people enjoy the food and museums that this country music lovers destination offers. Lots of people come for the live music. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.


A weekend in Boone or Nashville?

Boone is a small town where visitors enjoy the nightlife and food. 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 town has to offer. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Nashville. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. 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 Nashville?

Boone is a small town, so it's a great destination if you're short on time. 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.

Nashville is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the nightlife and live music when visiting the destination of Nashville. Lots of people come for the live music. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

A week in Boone or Nashville?

Boone 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.

You'll find live music and food around the country music lovers destination of Nashville. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Lots of people come for the live music. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 2-Week Tours from Los Angeles, The Best Family-Friendly Tours to United States of America, The Best Wildlife Tours to United States of America, and The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Nashville 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 Nashville is $172. 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 Nashville in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Boone $91
    Nashville $99
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Boone $182
    Nashville $198
Compare Hotels in Boone and Nashville

Looking for a hotel in Boone or Nashville? 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 Nashville


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 Nashville Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Boone $33
    Nashville $21

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Nashville

Also for Nashville, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Private Round trip transfer - Nashville International Airport (BNA): $260
  • Transfer from John C Tune Airport-JWN: $150
  • Nashville Airport (BNA) to Nashville Round-Trip Private Transfer: $137
  • Airport to Hotel Private Transfer: $125
  • One way Private Transfer from Nashville to Nashville Airport: $92
  • One way Private Transfer from International Airport to Nashville : $92
  • Nashville Airport: One-Way Private Transfer to Nashville: $90
  • Private Departure Transfer from Downtown Nashville to Nashville Airport (BNA): $84
  • Private Arrival Transfer from Nashville Airport (BNA) to Downtown Nashville: $84
  • Nashville Airport (BNA) to Nashville accomodation - Arrival Private Transfer: $68
  • Nashville accomodation to Nashville Airport (BNA) - Departure Private Transfer: $68
  • One Way Airport Transfer Service: $60

Is it cheaper to fly into Boone or Nashville?

Prices for flights to both Nashville 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
    Nashville $41
Typical Food Prices in Boone

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


  • Restaurant Lunch for 2
    $20

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Nashville

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

  • The Dinner Detective Murder Mystery Show - Franklin, TN: $94
  • The Gulch Walking & Tasting Food Tour: $98
  • Nashville Walking Food Tour With Secret Food Tours: $99
  • General Jackson Showboat Lunch or Dinner Cruise in Nashville: $104
  • General Jackson Showboat Dinner Cruise: $138
  • Downtown Food Tour: $145
  • Factory at Franklin: Indoor Food Tour: $145

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Boone $53
    Nashville $27

Tours and Activities in Nashville

For Nashville, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • Franklin Hop-On Hop-Off Sightseeing Tour with Live Narration: $39
  • 1 Hour Nashville Insider Photoshoot Tour in the Gulch: $79
  • 2 Hour Narrated Sightseeing Tractor Tour of Nashville: $50
  • 3 Hour Back Country Can-Am Experience: $229
  • 3D Panoramic-View BYOB Public City Tour by Glass Vehicle: $70
  • 4 Hour Back Country Can-Am Experience: $255
  • 4 Hour Can-Am Experience to Hampshire Wineries: $255
  • 90-Minute Monster Truck Joyride City Tour of Nashville: $53
  • Arrington Wine and Franklin Dine Private Tour from Nashville: $230
  • Austin and Colin's "Welcome to Nashville" Musical Party Bus Tour: $74
  • Axe Throwing Experience with Private Lane and Coach in Nashville: $46
  • Before-Hours Guided Tour of the Country Music Hall of Fame: $52

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Boone $26
    Nashville $15

Sample the Local Flavors in Nashville

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Nashville:

  • Music City Pub Crawl: $25
  • Nashville's Annual Tacky Sweater Pub Crawl: $25
  • Nashville Drinkers & Thinkers Pub Crawl: $25
  • Spirits of Nashville Haunted Pub Crawl: $25
  • Ghosts, Boos and Booze Haunted Pub Crawl: $28
  • Belle Meade Guided Mansion Tour with Complimentary Wine Tasting: $29
  • Seeking Spirits Haunted Pub Crawl: $30
  • Drinkers & Thinkers Pub Crawl: $33
  • Booze, Murder, and Mayhem Country Music Pub Crawl: $33
  • Booze, Brews, and Boos: Nashville's Haunted Pub Crawl: $35
  • Ghoul's Night Out: Nashville's Spooktacular Halloween Pub Crawl: $35
  • Nashville's Lost Spirits: Murder and True Crime Haunted Pub Crawl: $35


When comparing the travel costs between Boone and Nashville, we can see that Boone 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 Boone Expensive? and Is Nashville Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Boone or Nashville?

Nashville has a larger population, and is about 40 times larger than the population of Boone. When comparing the sizes of Boone and Nashville, 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.