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

Should you visit Chimney Rock and Lake Lure or Nashville?

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 Nashville 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 beautiful, peaceful, and active recreation area. It's a gorgeous place to visit. Other reasons to visit include hiking.

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. Other popular activities here include food, museums, and nightlife.

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure and Nashville: 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
  • Good music scene
  • Nice resorts
  • Popular at Christmas
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students


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

Visitors will usually find more to do in Nashville than Chimney Rock and Lake Lure, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Nashville is better known for its museums, food, nightlife, music, resorts, and big city activities, while Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is more popular for its hiking and impressive beauty. Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is more touristy than Nashville and is popular for its beautiful views and fun outdoor activities. 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 Chimney Rock and Lake Lure different from Nashville?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure
Nashville

Nashville 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 Nashville. 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.

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 Nashville? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure
Nashville

Nashville is a city 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 Nashville area. The city is known for some southern favorites including southern barbecue, mac and cheese, and biscuits and gravy.

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 Nashville Better for Nightlife?

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure
Nashville

Nashville 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 Nashville know how to have a good time. 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.

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 Nashville Better for Music?

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure
Nashville

Nashville is an amazing city to visit for its music scene. However, Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is not a live music destination.

In Nashville you'll find nightly musicians performing at a variety of venues. The city is famous for country music, blues, and rock and roll. Popular venues include The Basement, The 5 Spot, and The Cannery Complex.

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is not a live music destination.


Is Chimney Rock and Lake Lure or Nashville Better for Resorts?

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure
Nashville

Nashville is a city with good options for its resorts. However, Chimney Rock and Lake Lure 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.

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is not a resort destination.

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

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure
Nashville

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure 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 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.

Nashville is not a hiking destination.

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

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure
Nashville

Shopping is a popular activity in both Nashville and Chimney Rock and Lake Lure.

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure has some good spots for those that want to go shopping. You'll find the standard shopping centers in the area, but for the best shopping, head over to Asheville.

Nashville is a good destination for shopping. 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 Chimney Rock and Lake Lure or Nashville Better for Christmas?

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure
Nashville

Nashville is a city with good options for its Christmas activities. However, Chimney Rock and Lake Lure does not offer Christmas activities.

Many visitors go to Nashville during the Christmas season. Several different venues decorate beautifully for the Christmas season including the Gaylord Opryland.

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure does not offer Christmas activities.

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

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure
Nashville

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure 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.

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is a very family-friendly destination. 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.

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 Chimney Rock and Lake Lure or Nashville Better for Couples?

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure
Nashville

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is a very popular place for romance. Also, Nashville is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its romantic activities.

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. 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.

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

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure
Nashville

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is a very popular place for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Nashville is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for backpackers.

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is very popular with the backpacker crowd. There are several great campgrounds and plenty of hiking trails that make this a nice budget or backpacker getaway.

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

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

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure
Nashville

Neither Chimney Rock and Lake Lure or Nashville offer decent public transit.

Public transit is limited or non-existant in Chimney Rock and Lake Lure. There is limited public transit in the area.

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

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

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure
Nashville

Neither Chimney Rock and Lake Lure or Nashville are walkable places.

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

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


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

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

How long in Chimney Rock and Lake Lure or Nashville?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Chimney Rock and Lake Lure and Nashville. In our opinion, Nashville has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Nashville 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 Nashville.

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


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

One day in Chimney Rock and Lake Lure or Nashville?

You'll find around the recreation area of Chimney Rock and Lake Lure. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One day is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Chimney Rock and Lake Lure has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

In Nashville, many people enjoy the museums and nightlife that this country music lovers destination offers. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Lots of people come for the live music. 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 Nashville?

You'll find around the active destination of Chimney Rock and Lake Lure. 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 recreation area has to offer. This recreation area offers a variety of activities to choose from.

In Nashville, many people enjoy the nightlife and live music 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 Nashville?

Travelers enjoy the when visiting the active recreation area of Chimney Rock and Lake Lure. 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.

Many people enjoy the live music and food when visiting Nashville. 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 Nashville?

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure 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.

Travelers enjoy the food and museums when visiting the city of Nashville. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Lots of people come for the live music. 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, Nashville 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 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 Chimney Rock and Lake Lure and Nashville in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Chimney Rock and Lake Lure $117
    Nashville $99
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Chimney Rock and Lake Lure $234
    Nashville $198
Compare Hotels in Chimney Rock and Lake Lure and Nashville

Looking for a hotel in Chimney Rock and Lake Lure 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 Chimney Rock and Lake Lure


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: Nashville Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Chimney Rock and Lake Lure $35
    Nashville $21

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Nashville

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

  • Airport to Hotel Private Transfer: $125
  • Nashville Airport: One-Way Private Transfer to Nashville: $111
  • Nashville accomodation to Nashville Airport (BNA) - Departure Private Transfer: $66
  • Private transfer to Nashville Airport and Hotel: $128

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

Prices for flights to both Nashville 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
    Nashville $41

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Nashville

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

  • Nashville Delicious Donut Adventure & Walking Food Tour: $70
  • Neighborhood Food Tour on E-bikes: $79
  • The Dinner Detective Murder Mystery Show - Franklin, TN: $94
  • The Dinner Detective Murder Mystery Dinner Show - Nashville, TN: $94
  • Nashville Walking Food Tour With Secret Food Tours: $99
  • General Jackson Showboat Lunch or Dinner Cruise in Nashville: $113
  • General Jackson Showboat Dinner Cruise: $138

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Chimney Rock and Lake Lure $34
    Nashville $27

Tours and Activities in Nashville

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

  • Music City Self-Guided Walking Tour w/ Audio App: $6.75
  • Downtown A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $6.99
  • Nashville’s Bicentennial Capitol Mall State Park: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $6.99
  • Wander Nashville- Guided Historic Walking Tour: $10
  • Music History Guided Walking Tour: $10
  • Explore Nashville's Melodies: An In-App Audio Tour: $11
  • Willie Nelson and Friends Museum Entry Ticket: $11
  • Downtown Nashville Self-Guided Audio Walking Tour: $13
  • Nashville Scavenger Hunt and Sightseeing Self-Guided Tour: $13
  • Nashville Scavenger Hunt and Sights Self-Guided Private Tour: $13
  • Explore Haunted Downtown Walking Tour in Nashville : $20
  • Downtown Nashville Sightseeing Walking Tour with Ice Cream : $23

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Chimney Rock and Lake Lure $21
    Nashville $15

Sample the Local Flavors in Nashville

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Nashville:

  • Nashville's Annual New Year's Eve Pub Crawl: $25
  • Nashville's Annual Crawl-O-Ween Pub Crawl: $25
  • Nashville's Annual Saint Patrick's Day Pub Crawl: $25
  • Music City Pub Crawl: $25
  • Belle Meade Guided Mansion Tour with Complimentary Wine Tasting: $29
  • Seeking Spirits Haunted Pub Crawl: $30
  • Nashville Ghosts Boos and Booze Haunted Pub Crawl: $30
  • Nashville's Honky-Tonk Walking Sightseeing Pub Crawl: $31
  • Drinkers & Thinkers Pub Crawl: $33
  • Nashville's Lost Spirits: Murder and True Crime Haunted Pub Crawl: $35
  • Nashville Lost Spirits: Murder True Crime Haunted Pub Crawl: $35
  • Nashville Drinkers & Thinkers Pub Crawl: $35


When comparing the travel costs between Chimney Rock and Lake Lure and Nashville, 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 Nashville Expensive?.


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

Nashville has a larger population, and is about 3200 times larger than the population of Chimney Rock and Lake Lure. When comparing the sizes of Chimney Rock and Lake Lure 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.