A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Chimney Rock and Lake Lure vs. Bangor for Families, Couples, Backpackers, and Attractions

Should you visit Chimney Rock and Lake Lure or Bangor?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Chimney Rock and Lake Lure and Bangor can help. It includes a travel cost comparison in addition to other factors. For many travelers, the cost of a destination is a primary consideration when choosing where to go.

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is a active, beautiful, and peaceful recreation area. It offers plenty of beauty for visitors. Other popular activities here include hiking.

Bangor

Bangor is a friendly, laid back, and welcoming town. Don't miss this spot, as it's a charming small town with plenty of activities. Other popular activities here include museums, food, and shopping.

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure and Bangor: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less walkable
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Family-friendly
  • Very walkable
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less popular with couples
  • Less popular with backpackers


Is there more to do in Chimney Rock and Lake Lure or Bangor?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Chimney Rock and Lake Lure. Although Chimney Rock and Lake Lure and Bangor are popular destinations, Chimney Rock and Lake Lure has more sights and attractions for tourists. Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is very popular for its hiking and impressive beauty, while Bangor attracts visitors for its museums, food, shopping, and small town charm. Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is more touristy than Bangor and is known for its beautiful views and fun outdoor activities. It is also well known for Lake Lure Beach Park. Bangor is famous for its history as a lumber town.

How is Chimney Rock and Lake Lure different from Bangor?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Bangor and Chimney Rock and Lake Lure. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Chimney Rock and Lake Lure or Bangor?

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure
Bangor

Bangor is a town with good options for its museums and landmarks. However, Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is a recreation area with minimal options for its historical sights.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Bangor. There are a couple of museums around town that focus on culture and daily life in Maine.

While most people don't head to Chimney Rock and Lake Lure specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. There's a museum in Chimney Rock State Park, but most visitors spend their time taking advantage of the outdoor activities.


Is the Food Better in Chimney Rock and Lake Lure or Bangor? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure
Bangor

Bangor is a town with good options for its restaurant scene. However, Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is a recreation area with minimal options for its local flavors and cuisine.

There are many up and coming restaurants in the Bangor area. For a small town, there are a range of dining options in the area such as seafood, international cuisine, and quick eats.

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure offers some easy restaurants to choose from. Within Chimney Rock Park there's a deli and a cafe. Nearby you'll also find casual eateries with pizza or classic American dishes.

Is Chimney Rock and Lake Lure or Bangor Better for Nightlife?

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure
Bangor

It's hard to distinguish whether Chimney Rock and Lake Lure or Bangor has a better nightlife scene.

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is generally a quiet destination but there are options around. Most people head into nearby Asheville for the best nightlife.

Bangor doesn't have the most active nightlife scene. There are breweries and bars with laid back vibes and a casual atmosphere.

Is Chimney Rock and Lake Lure or Bangor Better for Hiking?

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure
Bangor

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is a well-known place for the nearby hiking options. However, Bangor is not a hiking destination.

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is a popular spot for hiking. One of the most popular trails in Chimney Rock State Park is The Exclamation Point Trail , which leads to many viewpoints. During the summer and fall seasons the trail can get very crowded. The obvious highlight in the park is Chimney Rock, which is a rock outcropping that offers spectacular views.

Bangor is not a hiking destination.


Is the Shopping Better in Chimney Rock and Lake Lure or Bangor?

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure
Bangor

Bangor is a town with good options for its shopping areas. However, Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is a recreation area with minimal options for shopping.

Many visitors go to Bangor to go shopping. Head downtown for the widest selection of locally own shops and boutiques.

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is a good destination for shopping. You'll find the standard shopping centers in the area, but for the best shopping, head over to Asheville.

Is Chimney Rock and Lake Lure or Bangor Better for Families?

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure
Bangor

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is a well-known place for its family-friendly activities. Also, Bangor is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. There are plenty of outdoor activities in the area. Head to sliding rock for a fun afternoon. There's also tubing, kayaking, and river rafting nearby. Horseback riding is a fun way to explore a trail, or simply hiking on one of the many paths in the area. You'll also find ziplining and plenty of water activities at the lake.

Bangor is a family-friendly recreation area. You'll find a number of parks and walking trails nearby. There's also fruit picking and playgrounds to explore.

Is Chimney Rock and Lake Lure or Bangor Better for Couples?

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure
Bangor

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is a well-known place for couples. However, Bangor is not a good town for romance.

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is a very popular place to visit for couples. There are romantic hotels as well as bed and breakfasts that make for a romantic retreat. Couples who enjoy beautiful outdoor settings and fun adventures will enjoy a weekend trip to the area. There are also local restaurants and a few wineries to explore.

Bangor is not the best destination for a couple to visit. There are local restaurants and several museums in town that couples will enjoy.


Is Chimney Rock and Lake Lure or Bangor Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure
Bangor

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is a well-known place for backpackers. However, Bangor is not a good town for backpackers and budget travelers.

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is a very popular recreation area for backpackers and budget travelers. There are several great campgrounds and plenty of hiking trails that make this a nice budget or backpacker getaway.

Bangor is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. Budget accommodation is available, but most backpackers don't think the visit here.

Is Chimney Rock and Lake Lure or Bangor Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure
Bangor

Bangor is a town with a few options for its public transit. However, Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is a recreation area with minimal options for times when you don't have a car.

Public transit is generally limited in Bangor. There's a bus system, but visitors usually use their own car to get around.

Public transit is quite limited in Chimney Rock and Lake Lure. There is limited public transit in the area.

Is Chimney Rock and Lake Lure or Bangor a more walkable city?

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure
Bangor

Bangor is a town with good options for its ease of walking around. However, Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is a recreation area with minimal options for its walkability.

Bangor is a somewhat walkable town. The downtown is compact and easy to explore on foot.

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is not a very walkable recreation area. The trails and parks in the region are spread out and require a car to access.


For even more information, also check out Is Chimney Rock and Lake Lure Worth Visiting? and Is Bangor Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Bangor or Chimney Rock and Lake Lure?

How long in Chimney Rock and Lake Lure or Bangor?

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

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


  • How many days in Chimney Rock and Lake Lure or Bangor? Ideal Length of Stay
    Chimney Rock and Lake Lure 1-3 
    Bangor 1-2

One day in Chimney Rock and Lake Lure or Bangor?

Many travelers enjoy the when visiting the destination of Chimney Rock and Lake Lure. Hikers are also drawn to this area. One day is often enough time to do most activities.

In Bangor, many people enjoy the food and shopping that this friendly destination offers. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One day is usually enough time to experience most activities.

A weekend in Chimney Rock and Lake Lure or Bangor?

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

In Bangor, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this destination offers. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything. Many people spend a weekend here. A weekend is often enough time to do most activities.

Five days in Chimney Rock and Lake Lure or Bangor?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Chimney Rock and Lake Lure. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Many people enjoy the museums and food when visiting Bangor. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. This town offers something for everyone.


A week in Chimney Rock and Lake Lure or Bangor?

Travelers enjoy the when visiting the active destination of Chimney Rock and Lake Lure. This recreation area offers a variety of activities to choose from. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

Travelers enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the town of Bangor. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.


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


Which place is cheaper, Bangor or Chimney Rock and Lake Lure?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is $196, while the average daily cost in Bangor is $197. 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 Chimney Rock and Lake Lure and Bangor in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Chimney Rock and Lake Lure $117
    Bangor $114
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Chimney Rock and Lake Lure $234
    Bangor $228
Compare Hotels in Chimney Rock and Lake Lure and Bangor

Looking for a hotel in Chimney Rock and Lake Lure or Bangor? 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 Chimney Rock and Lake Lure


Hotels in Bangor


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: Bangor Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Chimney Rock and Lake Lure $35
    Bangor $36

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Bangor

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Bangor:

  • Private Transfer from Bangor Airport(BGR) to Rockland Cruise Port: $69
  • Private Transfer from Bangor city hotels to Rockland Cruise Port: $69

Is it cheaper to fly into Chimney Rock and Lake Lure or Bangor?

Prices for flights to both Bangor and Chimney Rock and Lake Lure 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
    Chimney Rock and Lake Lure $52
    Bangor $54

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Chimney Rock and Lake Lure $34
    Bangor $45

Typical Entertainment Prices in Bangor

Some typical examples of activities, tours, and entrance ticket prices in Bangor are as follows:


  • Children's Museum (for 4)
    $32

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Chimney Rock and Lake Lure $21
    Bangor $23


When comparing the travel costs between Chimney Rock and Lake Lure and Bangor, we can see that Bangor 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 Chimney Rock and Lake Lure Expensive? and Is Bangor Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Chimney Rock and Lake Lure or Bangor?

Bangor has a larger population, and is about 190 times larger than the population of Chimney Rock and Lake Lure. When comparing the sizes of Chimney Rock and Lake Lure and Bangor, 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.