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

Should you visit Chimney Rock and Lake Lure or San Antonio?

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 San Antonio 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. It's also known for hiking.

San Antonio

San Antonio is a historic, cultural, and colorful city. It offers plenty of beauty for visitors. Other popular activities here include nightlife, live music, and food.

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure and San Antonio: 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
  • Scenic old town
  • Popular at Christmas
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for students
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with backpackers


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

Visitors will usually find more to do in San Antonio than Chimney Rock and Lake Lure, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. San Antonio is better known for its museums, food, nightlife, music, historical sights, and shopping, while Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is more popular for its hiking. Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is more touristy than San Antonio and is known for its beautiful views and fun outdoor activities. San Antonio is well known for being the home to the Alamo, the popular RiverWalk area, and several world-class amusement parks. Also, San Antonio is famous for The Alamo.

How is Chimney Rock and Lake Lure different from San Antonio?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure
San Antonio

San Antonio 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 San Antonio. It is known for its role in American history, and the city is famous as the location of the Alamo. It's also where you'll find the San Antonio Missions National Historical Park & Mission Trail, the San Antonio Museum of Art, Witte Museum, and the Guinness World Records Museum, among others.

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 San Antonio? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure
San Antonio

San Antonio 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 San Antonio area. You'll find a mix of amazing and authentic Mexican food, simpler Tex Mex, and a number of Hill Country specialties. The city is filled with comfort food and the restaurants reflect the diverse character of the population. Popular local dishes include tacos, sweet potato fries, and chicken fried steak.

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 San Antonio Better for Nightlife?

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure
San Antonio

San Antonio 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.

San Antonio has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. The city's nightlife scene is diverse, with dance halls, breweries, and clubs. It has seen a recent boom in dance clubs, so there are plenty of places to party hard, or to have a more relaxing night out. The RiverWalk is at the heart of the city's nightlife scene, particularly for tourists. Many conferences stay at hotels near the RiverWalk, so it's not uncommon to see professionals out and about after a day of networking.

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 San Antonio Better for Music?

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure
San Antonio

San Antonio is a city with good options for its music scene. However, Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is not a live music destination.

You'll find some good live music in San Antonio. It's worth checking out The Aztec Theater, Sam's Burger Joint, and 502 Bar.

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


Is Chimney Rock and Lake Lure or San Antonio Better for its Old Town?

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure
San Antonio

San Antonio is a city with good options for its historic old town charm. However, Chimney Rock and Lake Lure does not have a historic old town.

San Antonio offers a nice historic old town area. The city is famous for its River Walk, which may feel slightly cheesy, but is still a unique and mesmerizing place to wander.

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure does not have a historic old town.

Is Chimney Rock and Lake Lure or San Antonio Better for Hiking?

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure
San Antonio

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is a great destination for its hiking experiences. However, San Antonio 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.

San Antonio is not a hiking destination.

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

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure
San Antonio

San Antonio 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 San Antonio to go shopping. From souvenir shops to local boutiques and chain stores, there are several shopping options around town. Check out the historic Market Square or the shops at Rivercenter for some of the city's most interesting shopping.

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 San Antonio Better for Christmas?

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure
San Antonio

San Antonio 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 San Antonio during the Christmas season. It's fun to see the lights along the River Walk at Christmas.

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure does not offer Christmas activities.

Is Chimney Rock and Lake Lure or San Antonio Better for Families?

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure
San Antonio

San Antonio is an amazing city to visit for its family-friendly activities. Also, Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

San Antonio is an extremely popular city to visit for families. The RiverWalk is a fun family-friendly area. There's also Six Flags, SeaWorld and the San Antonio Zoo as well as a number of museums and other amusement parks in the area. It's easy to spend days having a great family vacation in this area and you can combine history, culture, and entertainment all in one setting.

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.

Is Chimney Rock and Lake Lure or San Antonio Better for Couples?

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure
San Antonio

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is a great destination for romance. Also, San Antonio is still popular, but not quite as popular for its romantic activities.

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.

San Antonio makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Couples will enjoy taking a boat ride and exploring the many sites around town. The RiverWalk has many restaurants and a great atmosphere for a date night. There's also the botanical gardens and many outdoor spaces to explore.


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

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure
San Antonio

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is a great destination for backpackers. However, San Antonio is a city with minimal options for backpackers and budget travelers.

Backpackers come from all over to visit Chimney Rock and Lake Lure. There are several great campgrounds and plenty of hiking trails that make this a nice budget or backpacker getaway.

San Antonio is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. While its not on most backpacker's lists, it does have a fun atmosphere and a social setting.

Is Chimney Rock and Lake Lure or San Antonio Better for Students?

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure
San Antonio

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

San Antonio is popular with students. There are a couple of colleges in the area. This is also a major conference destination so it's possible to network and meet other professionals.

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is not popular with students.

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

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure
San Antonio

San Antonio 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 San Antonio. Buses connect most of the city's tourist attractions, but you'll find life much easier if you have your own car.

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 San Antonio a more walkable city?

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure
San Antonio

San Antonio 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.

San Antonio is generally not very walkable. If you stick to the downtown area you will be fine getting around on foot. Outside of that area, you'll need a car.

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 San Antonio Worth Visiting?.

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

How long in Chimney Rock and Lake Lure or San Antonio?

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

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in San Antonio 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 San Antonio.


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

One day in Chimney Rock and Lake Lure or San Antonio?

Visitors enjoy the when visiting the beautiful recreation area of Chimney Rock and Lake Lure. Hikers are also drawn to this area. One day should give you a good understanding of everything this recreation area has to offer. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

In San Antonio, many people enjoy the food and shopping that this festive 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 San Antonio?

Visitors enjoy the when visiting the peaceful destination of Chimney Rock and Lake Lure. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. This recreation area 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.

In San Antonio, 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 San Antonio?

The beautiful recreation area of Chimney Rock and Lake Lure offers . 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. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting San Antonio. 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 San Antonio?

Many people enjoy the when visiting Chimney Rock and Lake Lure. Anyone can find something fun to do here. 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 nightlife and live music when visiting the city of San Antonio. 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, San Antonio 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 San Antonio is $132. 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 San Antonio in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Chimney Rock and Lake Lure $117
    San Antonio $69
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Chimney Rock and Lake Lure $234
    San Antonio $138
Compare Hotels in Chimney Rock and Lake Lure and San Antonio

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


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: San Antonio Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Chimney Rock and Lake Lure $35
    San Antonio $20

Typical Local Transportation Prices in San Antonio

Some typical examples of transportation costs in San Antonio are as follows:


  • Rental Car for a Day
    $60

Hired Cars and Shuttles in San Antonio

Some specific examples of transportation prices in San Antonio:

  • Galveston: One-Way Transfer GLS Airport to City: $237
  • Private One-way San Antonio Airport Transfer To/From San Antonio: $67
  • Private Round Trip Transfer - San Antonio International Airport (SAT): $93
  • Private Transfer: San Antonio Airport to San Antonio by Sedan, SUV or Minibus : $97

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

Prices for flights to both San Antonio 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
    San Antonio $40

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in San Antonio

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

  • The Haunted Dinner Tour: $75

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Chimney Rock and Lake Lure $34
    San Antonio $36

Typical Entertainment Prices in San Antonio

Here are a few typical costs in San Antonio for activities, ticket prices, and tours that come from previous visitors:


  • Spa Treatments
    $200

Tours and Activities in San Antonio

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

  • Self-Guided Ghost Walking Tour: $6.75
  • The Alamo In-App Audio Tour (WITHOUT A TICKET): $10
  • Briscoe Western Art Museum Entry Ticket: $14
  • The Alamo Exhibit Entry Ticket: $14
  • Witte Museum Admission Ticket: $16
  • Tower of the Americas Entry Ticket: $20
  • San Antonio Scavenger Hunt Adventure: $21
  • San Antonio Museum of Art Entry Ticket: $22
  • Hopscotch Immersive Art Experience: $24
  • Hopscotch Immersive Art Experience Ticket: $24
  • San Antonio Scavenger Hunt Walking Tour and Game: $25
  • Historical Ghost Tour: $25

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Chimney Rock and Lake Lure $21
    San Antonio -

Sample the Local Flavors in San Antonio

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in San Antonio:

  • Epic San Antonio Bar Crawl: By Let’s Roam: $12
  • Death Warmed Over: San Antonio Haunted Pub Crawl: $30
  • Guided Haunted Pub Crawl: $30
  • Texas’ Oldest Haunted Pub Crawl Shared Walking Tour: $30
  • Taste of Fredericksburg Small-Group Wine Tour from San Antonio: $155


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Chimney Rock and Lake Lure and San Antonio, we can see that Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is more expensive. And not only is San Antonio much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to San Antonio would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in San Antonio 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 San Antonio.

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 San Antonio Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Chimney Rock and Lake Lure or San Antonio?

San Antonio has a larger population, and is about 7570 times larger than the population of Chimney Rock and Lake Lure. When comparing the sizes of Chimney Rock and Lake Lure and San Antonio, 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.