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

Should you visit Chimney Rock and Lake Lure or Wilmington?

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 Wilmington 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.

Wilmington

Wilmington is a welcoming, charming, and historic city. Other popular activities here include nightlife, food, and beaches.

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure and Wilmington: 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
  • Less walkable
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Popular beach
  • Scenic old town
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for students
  • Very walkable
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with backpackers


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

Visitors will usually find more to do in Wilmington than Chimney Rock and Lake Lure, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Wilmington is better known for its museums, food, nightlife, beaches, historical sights, and shopping, while Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is more popular for its hiking and impressive beauty. Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is more touristy than Wilmington and is popular for its beautiful views and fun outdoor activities. Wilmington is well known for its laid back beaches, historical waterfront area, and university setting. Also, Wilmington is famous for the Battleship North Carolina.

How is Chimney Rock and Lake Lure different from Wilmington?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure
Wilmington

Wilmington 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 Wilmington. There are art, history, and science museums around town. The Battleship North Carolina is a popular destination. Science enthusiasts will enjoy a visit to the Cape Fear Museum of History and Science or the North Carolina Aquarium at Fort Fisher. For art, head to the Cameron Art Museum or Art in Bloom Gallery.

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 Wilmington? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure
Wilmington

Wilmington 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 Wilmington area. Head to the waterfront for local seafood restaurants that offer outdoor seating and fresh caught fish. There are also farm-to-table restaurants and local diners with casual food.

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 Wilmington Better for Nightlife?

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure
Wilmington

Wilmington 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.

Wilmington has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. Live music is popular around town. There are also bars, lounges and dance clubs. When the weather is warm, many places make use of the outdoor setting, which makes for a relaxed and fun evening.

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 Wilmington Better for Beaches?

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure
Wilmington

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

The beaches at Wilmington attract visitors from all over. Nearby you'll find Wrightsville Beach, Kure Beach, and Carolina Beach. They have long stretches of sand and great waves. The water is usually warm enough for swimming between the months of April and October. During these peak months parking can be challenging, but during the quieter times, you shouldn't have trouble.

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is not a beach destination.


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

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure
Wilmington

Wilmington 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.

Wilmington offers a nice historic old town area. The Historic District is along the waterfront and has 18th and 19th century architecture. There are also great restaurants and interesting shops.

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

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

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure
Wilmington

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is great for hiking. However, Wilmington is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors go to Chimney Rock and Lake Lure for the hiking trails. 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.

Wilmington is not a hiking destination.

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

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure
Wilmington

Wilmington 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 Wilmington to go shopping. Head downtown for the most interesting local shops. You'll find boutiques and souvenir shops where you can pick up art, accessories, or antiques.

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 Wilmington Better for Families?

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure
Wilmington

Both Chimney Rock and Lake Lure and Wilmington are high quality to visit with kids.

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.

Wilmington is a very family-friendly destination. Near town you'll find several beaches - Wrightsville Beach, Kure Beach, and Carolina Beach. They're all family-friendly and perfect for a day's activity. The city also has the North Carolina Aquarium at Fort Fisher, the Children's Museum of Wilmington, and the Wilmington Railroad Museum. For a rainy day there are also indoor play areas and entertainment centers.

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

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure
Wilmington

Both Chimney Rock and Lake Lure and Wilmington are high quality destinations for a couple's getaway.

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.

Wilmington is a great recreation area if you're traveling as a couple. The beaches are great for a relaxing day of swimming and sunbathing. In the evening head into town and enjoy one of the local seafood restaurants on the waterfront. You'll also find great shopping and historical sights in the area.

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

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure
Wilmington

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is great for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Wilmington is not a good destination 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.

Wilmington is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. While it's usually overlooked by backpackers, the university and great beaches make this a surprisingly fun destination.


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

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure
Wilmington

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

Wilmington is popular with students. The University of North Carolina at Wilmington is a popular school that brings many students to town.

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is not popular with students.

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

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure
Wilmington

Wilmington 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 Wilmington. There are public buses around town, but for practical reasons, you'll want to have your own vehicle.

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 Wilmington a more walkable city?

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure
Wilmington

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

Wilmington is a somewhat walkable city. The Historic District is best explored on foot. You can also get around Wrightsville Beach on foot, but traveling between these places requires 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 Wilmington Worth Visiting?.

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

How long in Chimney Rock and Lake Lure or Wilmington?

In either Chimney Rock and Lake Lure or Wilmington, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Wilmington than Chimney Rock and Lake Lure because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Chimney Rock and Lake Lure, and 2-5 days is enough time in Wilmington.

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

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

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


  • How many days in Chimney Rock and Lake Lure or Wilmington? Ideal Length of Stay
    Chimney Rock and Lake Lure 1-3 
    Wilmington 2-5

One day in Chimney Rock and Lake Lure or Wilmington?

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 Wilmington, many people enjoy the museums and nightlife that this charming destination offers. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Most people come for the beaches. 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 Wilmington?

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 Wilmington, many people enjoy the nightlife and food that this destination offers. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. 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 Wilmington?

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.

In Wilmington, many people enjoy the food and shopping that this historic destination offers. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. This is a popular place to visit for five days.Five days is often enough time to do most activities. This city offers something for everyone.


A week in Chimney Rock and Lake Lure or Wilmington?

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 shopping and museums when visiting the city of Wilmington. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. It's also a great beach destination, too. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Walking Tours in United States of America, The Best Northern Lights Tours in Alaska, The Best Tours Under $1000 in United States of America, and The Best Luxury Tours to United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Wilmington 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 Wilmington is $204. 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 Wilmington in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Chimney Rock and Lake Lure $117
    Wilmington $120
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Chimney Rock and Lake Lure $234
    Wilmington $240
Compare Hotels in Chimney Rock and Lake Lure and Wilmington

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


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: Wilmington Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Chimney Rock and Lake Lure $35
    Wilmington $47

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

Prices for flights to both Wilmington 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
    Wilmington $56

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Chimney Rock and Lake Lure $34
    Wilmington $17

Tours and Activities in Wilmington

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

  • Scavenger Hunt Adventure Self-Guided City Game: $10
  • Scavenger Hunt Adventure in Wilmington by Zombie Scavengers: $20
  • Eagles Island 50 minute Narrated Boat Cruise: $21
  • Wilmington History and Architecture Tour: $25
  • History and Architecture Walking Tour : $25
  • Ghosts of the Port City Haunted Walking Tour: $26
  • Wilmington Running Tour: Highlights of Historic Downtown: $30
  • Craft Beer and History Crawl Shared Experience in Wilmington: $30
  • Black Water Adventure Cruise: $33
  • Trolley Pub Public Tour: $49
  • Island Hopper Cruise in Wrightsville Beach: $50
  • 2-Hour Tour de Wilmington E-Bike Tour: $50

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Chimney Rock and Lake Lure $21
    Wilmington $39

Sample the Local Flavors in Wilmington

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Wilmington:

  • 3-Hour Wilmington E-Bike Bar Crawl: $55
  • 3-Hour Wilmington E-Bike Bar Crawl: $55
  • Private and Custom Brewery Tour in a '72 VW Bus : $286


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


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

Wilmington has a larger population, and is about 560 times larger than the population of Chimney Rock and Lake Lure. When comparing the sizes of Chimney Rock and Lake Lure and Wilmington, 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.