A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Chimney Rock and Lake Lure vs. Sonoma for Food, Couples, Nightlife, and Hiking

Should you visit Chimney Rock and Lake Lure or Sonoma?

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 Sonoma 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. It's also popular because of the hiking.

Sonoma

Sonoma is a scenic, serene, and relaxing county. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. Other popular activities here include nightlife, food, and beaches.

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure and Sonoma: 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
Pros
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Nice resorts
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • Less popular with backpackers


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

Travelers will usually find more to do in Sonoma. Although Chimney Rock and Lake Lure and Sonoma are popular destinations, Sonoma has more sights and attractions for tourists. Sonoma is more touristy than Chimney Rock and Lake Lure and is popular for its world-class winemaking and sustainable agriculture. It is also well known for Buena Vista Winery. Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is famous for its beautiful views and fun outdoor activities.

How is Chimney Rock and Lake Lure different from Sonoma?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure
Sonoma

For an educational experience, head to a museum or a notable sight in either Chimney Rock and Lake Lure or Sonoma.

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure offers a handful of options for museums and historical sights. There's a museum in Chimney Rock State Park, but most visitors spend their time taking advantage of the outdoor activities.

While most people don't head to Sonoma specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. While most people don't think of museums when they think of Sonoma, there are actually some interesting local options. The California Indian Museum, the Cotati Museum, and the Depot Park Museum are also local are fascinating.


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

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure
Sonoma

Sonoma is an amazing county to visit for its restaurant scene. However, Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is a recreation area with minimal options for its local flavors and cuisine.

Many restaurants in Sonoma have been singled out for their culinary prowess. Although wine may be the first thing you think about, the region is also filled with farm-to-table restaurants and award-winning dining options. The food is almost always fresh and local. You can sample many local ingredients such as vegetables, cheeses, olive oils, and fish.

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 Sonoma Better for Nightlife?

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure
Sonoma

Sonoma 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 Sonoma know how to have a good time. Lounges, wine bars, and live music venues offer a variety of activities for visitors during the evening hours.

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 Sonoma Better for Resorts?

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure
Sonoma

Sonoma is a great destination for its resorts. However, Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is not a resort destination.

In Sonoma, you'll find some of the region's top resorts. Spa hotels, charming inns, and beautiful resorts all offer a variety of options for visitors.

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is not a resort destination.


Is Chimney Rock and Lake Lure or Sonoma Better for Beaches?

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure
Sonoma

Sonoma is a great destination for the beach. However, Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is not a beach destination.

The beaches at Sonoma attract visitors from all over. The county has a coastline that includes several great beaches as well as rocky shoreline. The beaches include secluded coves and picturesque cliffs as well as sand dunes and sandy beaches.

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is not a beach destination.

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

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure
Sonoma

Both Chimney Rock and Lake Lure and Sonoma are destinations which offer great hiking.

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.

Many visitors go to Sonoma for the hiking trails. In between wine tastings you can explore the area's stunning natural beauty. There are hikes through the vineyards, along the coast, or through forested parks. Some of the best hikes are found in Jack London State Historic Park, Sugarloaf State Park, and Armstrong Woods State Park.

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

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure
Sonoma

Sonoma 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 Sonoma. You'll find a range of local vendors in the area, selling everything from jewelry to art, home decor, and olive oil.

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 Sonoma Better for Families?

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure
Sonoma

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is a great recreation area for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Sonoma is not as popular, but is still a nice county for its family-friendly activities.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Chimney Rock and Lake Lure. 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.

Sonoma is a family-friendly place to visit. While most people think immediately of wine tours, there's actually a lot more to Sonoma County. Kids will enjoy the many outdoor activities in the area, which include beaches, parks, wildlife viewing, and more. There's also horseback riding and even ziplining opportunities.

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

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure
Sonoma

Sonoma is an amazing county to visit for couples. Also, Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is still popular, but not quite as popular for romance.

Sonoma is a great county for couples, as it has plenty to offer. It has long been a favorite honeymoon destination for couples who come for the vineyards and wine tours. There are also charming hotels, award winning restaurants, and beautiful beaches.

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is a great recreation area if you're traveling as 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.

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

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure
Sonoma

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is a great recreation area for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Sonoma is not known for backpackers.

Plenty of budget travelers and backpackers 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.

Sonoma is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. There are a few budget hotel options in the area, but not much in the form of hostels.


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

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure
Sonoma

Neither Chimney Rock and Lake Lure or Sonoma 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 Sonoma. While there are buses, they are almost never used by tourists. There is the Sonoma Valley Wine Trolley which you should purchase tickets for in advance.

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

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure
Sonoma

Neither Chimney Rock and Lake Lure or Sonoma 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.

Sonoma is not a very walkable recreation area. You really must have a car to get around the area and explore it efficiently.

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

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

How long in Chimney Rock and Lake Lure or Sonoma?

It's fun to spend time in either Chimney Rock and Lake Lure or Sonoma. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Sonoma due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Chimney Rock and Lake Lure, and 2-4 days is enough time in Sonoma.

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


  • How many days in Chimney Rock and Lake Lure or Sonoma? Ideal Length of Stay
    Chimney Rock and Lake Lure 1-3 
    Sonoma 2-4

One day in Chimney Rock and Lake Lure or Sonoma?

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 Sonoma, many people enjoy the nightlife and food that this relaxing destination offers. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Lots of people come for the food. Hikers are also drawn to this area. 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 Sonoma?

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 Sonoma, many people enjoy the food and shopping that this beautiful destination offers. It's also a relaxing resort destination. 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 Sonoma?

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 shopping and nightlife when visiting Sonoma. 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. This county offers something for everyone.

A week in Chimney Rock and Lake Lure or Sonoma?

Travelers enjoy the when visiting the beautiful 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 nightlife and food when visiting the beautiful county of Sonoma. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. Lots of people come for the food. 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, Sonoma 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 Sonoma is $219. 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 Sonoma in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Chimney Rock and Lake Lure $117
    Sonoma $93
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Chimney Rock and Lake Lure $234
    Sonoma $186
Compare Hotels in Chimney Rock and Lake Lure and Sonoma

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


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: Sonoma Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Chimney Rock and Lake Lure $35
    Sonoma $134

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

Prices for flights to both Sonoma 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
    Sonoma $56

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Chimney Rock and Lake Lure $34
    Sonoma $16

Tours and Activities in Sonoma

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Sonoma.

  • Sonoma Scavenger Hunt Walking Tour & Game: $49
  • Sonoma Valley: Wine Trolley Tasting Tour with Lunch: $125
  • Sonoma Valley: Guided Winery Tour with Picnic Lunch: $126
  • Create your own wine blend experience: $140
  • From Napa Valley Classic Sidecar Tour to 3 Wineries: $300

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Chimney Rock and Lake Lure $21
    Sonoma $41

Sample the Local Flavors in Sonoma

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

  • San Francisco: Half-Day Wine Tour with 2 Tastings Included: $189
  • Sonoma Food & Wine Tour: $235


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


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

Sonoma has a larger population, and is about 60 times larger than the population of Chimney Rock and Lake Lure. When comparing the sizes of Chimney Rock and Lake Lure and Sonoma, 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.