A Travel Price Comparison for North Carolina Chimney Rock and Lake Lure vs. Greensboro for Families, Couples, Backpackers, and Attractions

Should you visit Chimney Rock and Lake Lure or Greensboro?

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 Greensboro 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 peaceful, active, and beautiful recreation area. It's a beautiful place to visit, too. And you can't forget about the hiking.

Greensboro

Greensboro is a welcoming, under-rated, and friendly city. Other popular activities here include museums, nightlife, and shopping.

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure and Greensboro: 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
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for students
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with couples
  • Less popular with backpackers


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

Tourists will generally find more to do in Chimney Rock and Lake Lure. Although Chimney Rock and Lake Lure and Greensboro are both popular with visitors, Chimney Rock and Lake Lure has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is more popular for its hiking and impressive beauty, while Greensboro is known for its museums, nightlife, and shopping. Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is more touristy than Greensboro and is known for its beautiful views and fun outdoor activities. It is also home to Lake Lure Beach Park. Greensboro is popular for its interesting museums and diverse restaurants.

How is Chimney Rock and Lake Lure different from Greensboro?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure
Greensboro

Greensboro is a city 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 Greensboro. The Greensboro Science Center is a highlight for families. Other interesting museums around town include the Elsewhere Modern Art Museum, the Greensboro History Museum, the International Civil Rights Center, and the Weatherspoon Art Museum.

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 Greensboro? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure
Greensboro

Picking the best cuisine and restaurants between Chimney Rock and Lake Lure and Greensboro can be difficult as they are each decent in their own way.

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure may not make the list for most foodies, but you'll find what you need while you're in town. Within Chimney Rock Park there's a deli and a cafe. Nearby you'll also find casual eateries with pizza or classic American dishes.

Greensboro offers some easy restaurants to choose from. You'll find a good selection of restaurants around town with Mexican, southern, Italian, and Chinese all being popular options.

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

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure
Greensboro

Greensboro is a city with good options for its evening party scene. However, Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is a recreation area with minimal options for nightlife.

Greensboro has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. Head downtown for the most trendy bars, breweries, and nightclubs.

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 Greensboro Better for Hiking?

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure
Greensboro

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is well known for its hiking experiences. However, Greensboro is not a hiking destination.

You'll find a nice variety of hiking trails around Chimney Rock and Lake Lure. 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.

Greensboro is not a hiking destination.


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

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure
Greensboro

Greensboro is a city 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 Greensboro to go shopping. There are shopping centers and shopping malls around town as well as some interesting local 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 Greensboro Better for Families?

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure
Greensboro

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is well known for its family-friendly activities. Also, Greensboro is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is a very kid-friendly recreation area. 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.

Greensboro offers lots of family activities. Kids will love visiting the Greensboro Science Center, which has hands-on science exhibits and a small zoo. Younger kids will also enjoy a visit to the Miriam P. Brenner Children’s Museum. During the summer months the Wet 'n Wild Emerald Pointe Water Park is a great way to spend a day. Other times of the year, there are indoor play spaces and movie theaters around town.

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

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure
Greensboro

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is well known for its romantic activities. However, Greensboro is not particularly known for couples.

Couples visit Chimney Rock and Lake Lure frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. 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.

Greensboro is not always the best place to visit for a couple. The Carolina Theater makes a great date night activity. There is also a diverse selection of restaurants around town and a few parks for a daytime outing.


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

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure
Greensboro

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is well known for backpackers. However, Greensboro is not particularly known for backpackers and budget travelers.

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

Greensboro is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. There are a number of budget hotels nearby but no real hostels.

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

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure
Greensboro

Greensboro is a city with good options for students. However, Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is not popular with students.

Greensboro is popular with students. University of North Carolina at Greensboro attracts students to the city. There are also several smaller colleges in the area.

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is not popular with students.

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

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure
Greensboro

Greensboro is a city 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 Greensboro. There are several bus routes around town, but you really can depend on them to get where you're going. A car is important for making the most of your trip.

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 Greensboro a more walkable city?

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure
Greensboro

Greensboro is a city with a few options for its ease of walking around. However, Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is a recreation area with minimal options for its walkability.

Greensboro is generally not very walkable. Most areas aren't walkable, but for the most pedestrian-friendly sections head to College Hill, downtown, or Brice Street.

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 Greensboro Worth Visiting?.

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

How long in Chimney Rock and Lake Lure or Greensboro?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Chimney Rock and Lake Lure or Greensboro to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Chimney Rock and Lake Lure than Greensboro 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 Greensboro.

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

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


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

One day in Chimney Rock and Lake Lure or Greensboro?

With around the active recreation area of Chimney Rock and Lake Lure, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. 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, one day is sufficent for most.

In Greensboro, many people enjoy the nightlife and shopping that this welcoming 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 Greensboro?

With around the destination of Chimney Rock and Lake Lure, there's plenty to do. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. It offers something for everyone. Many people spend a weekend here. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this recreation area.

In Greensboro, 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 Greensboro?

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure, a popular recreation area, is full of activities for travelers. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Greensboro. 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 Greensboro?

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and shopping when visiting the city of Greensboro. 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, Greensboro 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 Greensboro is $162. 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 Greensboro in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Chimney Rock and Lake Lure $117
    Greensboro $96
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Chimney Rock and Lake Lure $234
    Greensboro $192
Compare Hotels in Chimney Rock and Lake Lure and Greensboro

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


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: Greensboro Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Chimney Rock and Lake Lure $35
    Greensboro $24

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

Prices for flights to both Greensboro 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
    Greensboro $48

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Chimney Rock and Lake Lure $34
    Greensboro $26

Tours and Activities in Greensboro

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

  • True Crime Tour: $16
  • Downtown Historic Walking Tour: $16
  • African American History Walking Tour: $16

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Chimney Rock and Lake Lure $21
    Greensboro $20


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

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 Greensboro Expensive?.


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

Greensboro has a larger population, and is about 1400 times larger than the population of Chimney Rock and Lake Lure. When comparing the sizes of Chimney Rock and Lake Lure and Greensboro, 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.