A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Chimney Rock and Lake Lure vs. Berkeley for Attractions, Food, Nightlife, and Families

Should you visit Chimney Rock and Lake Lure or Berkeley?

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 Berkeley 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.

Berkeley

Berkeley is a diverse, quirky, and progressive city. It offers plenty of beauty for visitors. Other popular activities here include shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure and Berkeley: 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 food
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less popular for shopping
  • Public transit not as usable
  • Less walkable
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Good public transit
  • Very walkable


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

Travelers will usually find more to do in Berkeley. Although Chimney Rock and Lake Lure and Berkeley are popular destinations, Berkeley has more sights and attractions for tourists. Berkeley is very popular for its museums, food, nightlife, and shopping, while Chimney Rock and Lake Lure attracts visitors for its hiking. Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is famous for its beautiful views and fun outdoor activities. Berkeley is famous for its progressive and liberal mindset as well as its farmer's markets and local boutiques. It is also well known for University of California Botanical Garden.

How is Chimney Rock and Lake Lure different from Berkeley?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Berkeley 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 Berkeley?

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure
Berkeley

Berkeley is a great destination for its museums and landmarks. However, Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is a recreation area with minimal options for its historical sights.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into Berkeley. There are a wide range of museums around town, many of which are affiliated with the university. There are natural history museums, art museums, cultural museums, as well as historical and science museums.

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 Berkeley? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure
Berkeley

Berkeley is a great destination for its restaurant scene. However, Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is a recreation area with minimal options for its local flavors and cuisine.

Dining out in Berkeley is an experience not to be missed. There's a huge diversity of restaurants that range from international to California flavors. There are also eateries that cater to the student population, as well as fine dining and everything in between. You'll also find many farmer's markets, vegan options, and restaurants that use locally sourced ingredients.

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 Berkeley Better for Nightlife?

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure
Berkeley

Berkeley is a great destination for its evening party scene. However, Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is a recreation area with minimal options for nightlife.

The people in Berkeley know how to have a good time. With its large student population, you'll find no shortage of nightlife activities around town. There are bars and pubs as well as live music venues and plenty of unique experiences.

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure doesn't have the most active nightlife scene. Most people head into nearby Asheville for the best nightlife.

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

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure
Berkeley

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is notable for the nearby hiking options. However, Berkeley 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.

Berkeley is not a hiking destination.


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

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure
Berkeley

Berkeley is a great destination for its shopping areas. However, Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is a recreation area with minimal options for shopping.

Browsing through shops is a popular activity in Berkeley. Quirky and local is what shopping in Berkeley is all about. There are also plenty of thrift stores and farmer's markets. Head to Fourth Street or Telegraph Avenue for some of the most interesting shopping opportunities.

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 Berkeley Better for Families?

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure
Berkeley

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is notable for its family-friendly activities. Also, Berkeley is not as famous, but is still a good city 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.

Berkeley is a family-friendly recreation area. There are many outdoor places to explore with kids like Tilden Park or UC Botanical Garden. There are also science museums, nature centers, and plenty of kid-friendly restaurants.

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

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure
Berkeley

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is notable for couples. Also, Berkeley is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit 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.

Berkeley is a nice destination for couples. There's a wonderful mix of cultural activities and outdoor parks that you can explore. There's the Berkeley Rose Garden, the Berkeley Repertory Theatre, and many charming restaurants.


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

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure
Berkeley

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure and Berkeley are high quality places to visit 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.

Berkeley is very popular with the backpacker crowd. With its eclectic and alternative vibe, backpackers will find their place in this city. There's also a huge student population and a couple of hostels in the area.

Is Chimney Rock and Lake Lure or Berkeley Better for Students?

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure
Berkeley

Berkeley is a great destination for students. However, Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is not popular with students.

Students come from all over to stay in Berkeley. University of California, Berkeley is a well reviewed university that attracts a progressive and motivated student population. The city is an expensive, but very rewarding place to study with many activities and opportunities for students.

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is not popular with students.

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

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure
Berkeley

Berkeley is an amazing city to visit 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 in Berkeley is top-notch. It's located in the San Francisco Bay Area, and it has access to buses and several BART stations.

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 Berkeley a more walkable city?

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure
Berkeley

Berkeley is an amazing city to visit for its ease of walking around. However, Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is a recreation area with minimal options for its walkability.

Getting around Berkeley on foot is easy. Most of Berkeley is very walkable, particularly the parts around the university.

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 Berkeley Worth Visiting?.

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

How long in Chimney Rock and Lake Lure or Berkeley?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Chimney Rock and Lake Lure and Berkeley. In our opinion, Berkeley has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Berkeley than Chimney Rock and Lake Lure. In general, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Chimney Rock and Lake Lure, and 2-3 days is enough time in Berkeley.

Families should spend more time in Chimney Rock and Lake Lure than Berkeley. 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.

Couples should spend more time in Berkeley than Chimney Rock and Lake Lure. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Berkeley that are perfect for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Berkeley than Chimney Rock and Lake Lure 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 Berkeley.


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

One day in Chimney Rock and Lake Lure or Berkeley?

The recreation area of Chimney Rock and Lake Lure offers . Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one day here. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

In Berkeley, many people enjoy the museums and nightlife that this quirky destination offers. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Chimney Rock and Lake Lure or Berkeley?

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this recreation area 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 Chimney Rock and Lake Lure, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

In Berkeley, many people enjoy the nightlife and food 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 Berkeley?

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure 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.

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

A week in Chimney Rock and Lake Lure or Berkeley?

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure 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 recreation area offers something for everyone.

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the city of Berkeley. 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, Berkeley 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 Berkeley is $190. 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 Berkeley in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Chimney Rock and Lake Lure $117
    Berkeley $131
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Chimney Rock and Lake Lure $234
    Berkeley $262
Compare Hotels in Chimney Rock and Lake Lure and Berkeley

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


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: Berkeley Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Chimney Rock and Lake Lure $35
    Berkeley $30

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Berkeley

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Berkeley:

  • Arrival Transfer from Oakland Airport OAK to San Francisco by SUV: $232
  • Oakland Airport (OAK) to Oakland hotel or address - Private Arrival Transfer: $44
  • Oakland Airport (OAK) to Oakland hotel or address - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $87
  • Oakland Airport (OAK) to San Francisco hotel/address - Private Arrival Transfer: $63
  • Private Arrival Transfer from Oakland Airport (OAK) to Oakland: $93
  • Private Arrival Transfer from Oakland Airport OAK: $81
  • Private Departure Transfer to Oakland Airport OAK: $97
  • Private Transfer: Oakland International Airport to Hotel: $200

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

Prices for flights to both Berkeley 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
    Berkeley $36

Typical Food Prices in Berkeley

Some typical examples of dining costs in Berkeley are as follows:


  • Chocolates at Sweet Dreams
    $4.46

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Berkeley

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Berkeley.

  • North 3-Hour Food Tour: $116
  • Best of North Berkeley Food Tour: $130
  • Black Food Tour - Downtown Oakland: $130

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Chimney Rock and Lake Lure $34
    Berkeley $30

Tours and Activities in Berkeley

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Berkeley are as follows:

  • Ruth Bancroft Garden General Admission Ticket: $12
  • Oakland Athletics Baseball Game Ticket at RingCentral Coliseum: $14
  • 2 Hours Private Walking Tour in Berkeley: $20
  • Self-Guided Oakland Tour in an Urban Excursion: $20
  • Comedy Oakland at The Washington Inn Show Tickets: $20
  • Scavenger Hunt Adventure in Berkeley by Zombie Scavengers: $20
  • Unique Scavenger Hunt Experience in Antioch by Zombie Scavengers: $20
  • Redwoods of Marin and Mt. Tamalpais Walking Tour with Local Guide: $59
  • Historic Houseboat Tour: $65
  • Oakland's Temescal Tastes Tour: $120
  • Classic Sausalito Wooden Boat Tour: $135

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Chimney Rock and Lake Lure $21
    Berkeley $13

Sample the Local Flavors in Berkeley

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

  • Guided Wine Tasting at Berkeley Wineries with Local Sommelière : $175
  • Guided Wine Tasting with Local Sommelière: $175


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


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

Berkeley has a larger population, and is about 600 times larger than the population of Chimney Rock and Lake Lure. When comparing the sizes of Chimney Rock and Lake Lure and Berkeley, 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.