A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Chapel Hill vs. Lewisburg for Attractions, Nightlife, Food, and Families

Should you visit Chapel Hill or Lewisburg?

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

Should I visit Chapel Hill or Lewisburg? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

Chapel Hill

Chapel Hill is a collegiate, southern, and student-oriented town. It's also known for shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Lewisburg

Lewisburg is a historical, quaint, and charming town. Don't miss this spot, as it's a charming small town with plenty of activities. Other popular activities here include shopping and museums.

Chapel Hill and Lewisburg: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for students
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with backpackers
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Scenic old town
  • Family-friendly
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less popular with couples
  • Less popular with backpackers
  • Less popular for students


Is there more to do in Chapel Hill or Lewisburg?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Chapel Hill than Lewisburg, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Chapel Hill is better known for its museums, food, and nightlife, while Lewisburg is more popular for its historical sights and small town charm. Chapel Hill is well known for being the home of the oldest public university in the United States. Also, Chapel Hill is famous for the University of North Carolina. Lewisburg is well known for its historical charm and friendly personality.

How is Chapel Hill different from Lewisburg?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Chapel Hill or Lewisburg?

Chapel Hill
Lewisburg

Chapel Hill is well known for its museums and landmarks. Also, Lewisburg is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historical sights.

Chapel Hill offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. Many of the museums are affiliated with UNC. A highlight of many trips is a visit to the Morehead Planetarium and Science Center. Hours can vary, so check the schedule ahead of time. Also worth visiting are the Ackland Art Museum and the Carolina Basketball Museum.

Lewisburg offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. There are several cultural and historical museums in town as well as a fun children's museum.


Is the Food Better in Chapel Hill or Lewisburg? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Chapel Hill
Lewisburg

Chapel Hill is a popular place for its restaurant scene. However, Lewisburg is not particularly known for its local flavors and cuisine.

Chapel Hill offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. Students often eat on Franklin Street, which has a diverse mix of casual and slightly nicer restaurants. You'll find Indian food, Mediterranean, Italian, and Greek. The city also has excellent barbecue and other southern favorites.

You'll find the standard options when it comes to food in Lewisburg. There are bistros and cafes as well as all the standard chain restaurants.

Is Chapel Hill or Lewisburg Better for Nightlife?

Chapel Hill
Lewisburg

Chapel Hill is well known for nightlife. However, Lewisburg is not particularly known for nightlife and partying.

Chapel Hill is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. Most of the nightlife is centered around the student population. Franklin Street has a number of bars where students hang out. There are also parties hosted by fraternities and sororities. Things are quieter during the summer months when students are mostly gone.

Lewisburg doesn't have the most active nightlife scene. While there are some bars, most people don't come here for the nightlife.

Is Chapel Hill or Lewisburg Better for its Old Town?

Chapel Hill
Lewisburg

Lewisburg is a popular place for its historic old town charm. However, Chapel Hill does not have a historic old town.

Lewisburg offers a nice historic old town area. There are a huge number of historical buildings in the downtown area that contribute to the town's charm and character.

Chapel Hill does not have a historic old town.


Is the Shopping Better in Chapel Hill or Lewisburg?

Chapel Hill
Lewisburg

Shopping is a popular activity in both Lewisburg and Chapel Hill.

Many visitors go to Chapel Hill to go shopping. There are a mix of local shops, larger shopping centers, and suburban malls. There are also weekly farmer's markets that are fun to check out.

Plenty of visitors enjoy shopping while in Lewisburg. There are some quaint local shops that sell local items and unique art works.

Is Chapel Hill or Lewisburg Better for Families?

Chapel Hill
Lewisburg

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Chapel Hill or Lewisburg.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Chapel Hill. You can wander around the UNC campus or visit one of the museums affiliated with the school. This includes a planetarium that has regular shows and movies (The Morehead Planetarium and Science Center). There are also science exhibits geared specifically towards kids.

Lewisburg offers lots of family activities. The Lewisburg Children's Museum is worth checking out, as is Reptiland and the many different indoor and outdoor play areas.

Is Chapel Hill or Lewisburg Better for Couples?

Chapel Hill
Lewisburg

Chapel Hill is a popular place for romance. However, Lewisburg is not particularly known for its romantic activities.

Chapel Hill is a nice destination for couples. There's an eclectic mix of restaurants on Franklin Street. Couples will also enjoy exploring the campus at UNC, visiting the botanical garden, or checking out one of the town's museums.

Most people don't think of Lewisburg as a couple's destination. There are several quaint inns and beautiful gardens that you can explore. There are also spas and restaurants where you can enjoy a nice meal.


Is Chapel Hill or Lewisburg Better for Students?

Chapel Hill
Lewisburg

Chapel Hill is an amazing town to visit for students. Also, Lewisburg is still popular, but not quite as popular for its student-friendly activities.

Many students frequent Chapel Hill. It's a quintessential college town. UNC has a nice campus and Franklin Street is the main spot for restaurants and shopping. Most of the students live near or on campus, but once you head further out things get more suburban.

It's common for students to visit Lewisburg. Many students enjoy living here while they attend Bucknell University.

Is Chapel Hill or Lewisburg Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Chapel Hill
Lewisburg

Chapel Hill is a popular place for its public transit. However, Lewisburg is not particularly known for times when you don't have a car.

You'll find some public transit in Chapel Hill, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There are bus routes that operate between Chapel Hill and Carrboro.

Public transit is mostly limited in Lewisburg. Public transportation in the area is limited.

Is Chapel Hill or Lewisburg a more walkable city?

Chapel Hill
Lewisburg

Chapel Hill and Lewisburg both are notable when exploring on foot.

Chapel Hill is a somewhat walkable town. The area around UNC is the most walkable part of town. Elsewhere things are very suburban and you'll need a car.

Lewisburg is somewhat walkable. It's small with a relatively compact downtown.


For even more information, also check out Is Chapel Hill Worth Visiting? and Is Lewisburg Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Lewisburg or Chapel Hill?

How long in Chapel Hill or Lewisburg?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Chapel Hill or Lewisburg to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Chapel Hill than Lewisburg because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Chapel Hill, and 1-2 days is enough time in Lewisburg.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Chapel Hill than Lewisburg 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 Chapel Hill.


  • How many days in Chapel Hill or Lewisburg? Ideal Length of Stay
    Chapel Hill 1-3 
    Lewisburg 1-2

One day in Chapel Hill or Lewisburg?

You'll find shopping and museums around the town of Chapel Hill. One day is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Chapel Hill has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Visitors enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the charming town of Lewisburg. One day should give you a good understanding of everything this town has to offer. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A weekend in Chapel Hill or Lewisburg?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the southern destination of Chapel Hill. 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.

Visitors enjoy the museums and shopping when visiting the quaint destination of Lewisburg. This town offers something for everyone. Plenty of people spend a weekend in the area when traveling. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

Five days in Chapel Hill or Lewisburg?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the collegiate town of Chapel Hill. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

The historical town of Lewisburg offers shopping and museums. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.


A week in Chapel Hill or Lewisburg?

Chapel Hill is a popular choice for travelers. 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.

Many people enjoy the museums and shopping when visiting Lewisburg. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Bicycle Tours in United States of America, Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in United States of America, The Best Coach Bus Tours in United States of America, and The Best Adventure Tours to United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Lewisburg or Chapel Hill?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Chapel Hill is $164, while the average daily cost in Lewisburg is $136. 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 Chapel Hill and Lewisburg in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Chapel Hill $95
    Lewisburg $70
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Chapel Hill $190
    Lewisburg $140
Compare Hotels in Chapel Hill and Lewisburg

Looking for a hotel in Chapel Hill or Lewisburg? 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 Chapel Hill


Hotels in Lewisburg


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: Chapel Hill Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Chapel Hill $34
    Lewisburg $53

Is it cheaper to fly into Chapel Hill or Lewisburg?

Prices for flights to both Lewisburg and Chapel Hill 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
    Chapel Hill $49
    Lewisburg $34

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Chapel Hill $17
    Lewisburg $18

Tours and Activities in Chapel Hill

Here are a few actual costs in Chapel Hill for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • Chapel Hill, NC: Murder Mystery Detective Experience: $15
  • Chapel Hill Historic Churches Tour: $16
  • Carolina History & Haunts Greensboro Historical Ghost Tour: $20
  • Unique Scavenger Hunt Experience in Greensboro by Zombie Scavengers: $20
  • Morning Aerial Adventure Adult Course from Riegelwood: $55
  • Raleigh Guided E-Bike Tour: Burgers, Brews, and History too: $107
  • Coastal Excursion/Sunset Cruise/Sand Dollars/Sea Shells/Horses: $225
  • 8 Hours Private Crystal Coast Sightseeing in North Carolina: $275

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Chapel Hill $40
    Lewisburg $12

Sample the Local Flavors in Chapel Hill

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Chapel Hill:

  • Wacky Fayetteville Bar Crawl: By Let’s Roam: $12


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Chapel Hill and Lewisburg, we can see that Chapel Hill is more expensive. And not only is Lewisburg much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Lewisburg would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Lewisburg 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 Chapel Hill would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Chapel Hill than you might in Lewisburg.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Chapel Hill Expensive? and Is Lewisburg Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Chapel Hill or Lewisburg?

Chapel Hill has a larger population, and is about 9 times larger than the population of Lewisburg. When comparing the sizes of Chapel Hill and Lewisburg, 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 Chapel Hill or Lewisburg?

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 Chapel Hill or Lewisburg in the Summer?

Both Lewisburg and Chapel Hill are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The summer months attract visitors to Chapel Hill because of the family-friendly experiences. Also, the small town charm and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Lewisburg this time of year.

In the summer, Chapel Hill is a little warmer than Lewisburg. Typically, the summer temperatures in Chapel Hill in July average around 79°F (26°C), and Lewisburg averages at about 74°F (24°C).

It's quite sunny in Lewisburg. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Chapel Hill. Chapel Hill usually receives less sunshine than Lewisburg during summer. Chapel Hill gets 259 hours of sunny skies, while Lewisburg receives 310 hours of full sun in the summer.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Lewisburg. It's quite rainy in Chapel Hill. In July, Chapel Hill usually receives more rain than Lewisburg. Chapel Hill gets 5.1 inches (129 mm) of rain, while Lewisburg receives 4 inches (101 mm) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Chapel Hill 79°F (26°C) 
    Lewisburg 74°F (24°C)

Should I visit Chapel Hill or Lewisburg in the Autumn?

Both Lewisburg and Chapel Hill during the autumn are popular places to visit. The shopping scene are the main draw to Chapel Hill this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Lewisburg for the shopping scene and the small town atmosphere.

In October, Chapel Hill is generally a little warmer than Lewisburg. Daily temperatures in Chapel Hill average around 61°F (16°C), and Lewisburg fluctuates around 54°F (12°C).

It's quite sunny in Chapel Hill. In the autumn, Chapel Hill often gets more sunshine than Lewisburg. Chapel Hill gets 211 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Lewisburg receives 194 hours of full sun.

Chapel Hill usually gets less rain in October than Lewisburg. Chapel Hill gets 2.8 inches (71 mm) of rain, while Lewisburg receives 3.3 inches (84 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Chapel Hill 61°F (16°C) 
    Lewisburg 54°F (12°C)

Should I visit Chapel Hill or Lewisburg in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Chapel Hill and Lewisburg. Many travelers come to Chapel Hill for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Lewisburg in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Lewisburg can get quite cold in the winter. Be prepared for some very cold days in Chapel Hill. Chapel Hill is much warmer than Lewisburg in the winter. The daily temperature in Chapel Hill averages around 40°F (5°C) in January, and Lewisburg fluctuates around 27°F (-3°C).

Chapel Hill usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Lewisburg during winter. Chapel Hill gets 162 hours of sunny skies, while Lewisburg receives 153 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Chapel Hill usually receives more rain than Lewisburg. Chapel Hill gets 3.2 inches (82 mm) of rain, while Lewisburg receives 2.5 inches (65 mm) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Chapel Hill 40°F (5°C) 
    Lewisburg 27°F (-3°C)

Should I visit Chapel Hill or Lewisburg in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Chapel Hill as well as Lewisburg. Also, most visitors come to Lewisburg for the small town charm during these months.

In the spring, Chapel Hill is a little warmer than Lewisburg. Typically, the spring temperatures in Chapel Hill in April average around 60°F (16°C), and Lewisburg averages at about 51°F (11°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Lewisburg. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Chapel Hill this time of the year. In the spring, Chapel Hill often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Lewisburg. Chapel Hill gets 251 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Lewisburg receives 237 hours of full sun.

Chapel Hill usually gets around the same amount of rain in April as Lewisburg. Chapel Hill gets 3.1 inches (78 mm) of rain, while Lewisburg receives 3.2 inches (82 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Chapel Hill 60°F (16°C) 
    Lewisburg 51°F (11°C)

Typical Weather for Lewisburg and Chapel Hill

Chapel Hill Lewisburg
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 40°F (5°C) 3.2 inches (82 mm) 27°F (-3°C) 2.5 inches (65 mm)
Feb 43°F (6°C) 3.3 inches (84 mm) 30°F (-1°C) 2.8 inches (70 mm)
Mar 52°F (11°C) 3.4 inches (87 mm) 40°F (5°C) 3.2 inches (81 mm)
Apr 60°F (16°C) 3.1 inches (78 mm) 51°F (11°C) 3.2 inches (82 mm)
May 68°F (20°C) 3.3 inches (84 mm) 62°F (16°C) 3.9 inches (98 mm)
Jun 76°F (24°C) 3.7 inches (93 mm) 70°F (21°C) 4.3 inches (110 mm)
Jul 79°F (26°C) 5.1 inches (129 mm) 74°F (24°C) 4 inches (101 mm)
Aug 78°F (26°C) 4.9 inches (125 mm) 73°F (23°C) 3.4 inches (86 mm)
Sep 73°F (23°C) 3.8 inches (96 mm) 65°F (19°C) 3.4 inches (86 mm)
Oct 61°F (16°C) 2.8 inches (71 mm) 54°F (12°C) 3.3 inches (84 mm)
Nov 53°F (11°C) 2.8 inches (72 mm) 44°F (7°C) 3.7 inches (95 mm)
Dec 44°F (7°C) 3.1 inches (78 mm) 33°F (1°C) 3 inches (77 mm)