A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Clearwater vs. Blue Ridge for Attractions, Food, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Clearwater or Blue Ridge?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for Clearwater and Blue Ridge. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.

Clearwater

Clearwater is a beautiful, outdoorsy, and adventure-filled coastal city. Other reasons to visit include beaches, shopping, and museums.

Blue Ridge

Blue Ridge is a historic, quaint, and charming town. This is a great small town that is just waiting to be explored. It's a gorgeous place to visit. It's also known for nightlife, food, and hiking.

Clearwater and Blue Ridge: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Clearwater or Blue Ridge?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Clearwater. Although Clearwater and Blue Ridge are both popular with visitors, Clearwater has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Clearwater is more popular for its museums, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, and beaches, while Blue Ridge is known for its hiking, shopping, small town charm, and impressive beauty. Clearwater is more touristy than Blue Ridge and is popular for its beautiful white sand beaches, laid back atmosphere, and watersports. It is also home to Clearwater Beach. Blue Ridge is popular for its beautiful mountain setting, miles of hiking trails, and small town atmosphere.

How is Clearwater different from Blue Ridge?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Blue Ridge and Clearwater. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Clearwater or Blue Ridge?

Clearwater is a very popular place for its museums and history. However, Blue Ridge is lacking in good options for its museums and landmarks.

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around Clearwater. Perhaps most well known is the Clearwater Marine Aquarium, but there are also a surprising number of museums nearby such as the Dalí Museum, the impressive Chihuly Glass Museum, and the Museum of Fine Arts.

Blue Ridge offers a handful of options for museums and historical sights. While you don't immediately think of museums in the area, there are a couple. The Dahlonega Gold Museum gives information on the gold rush and mining industry in town. In nearby Tennessee, Ducktown Basin Museum is a historic mine site that is open for tours.

Is the Food Better in Clearwater or Blue Ridge? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Foodies will find both Clearwater and Blue Ridge both to be excellent destinations.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Clearwater makes for a great culinary experience. Head to the waterfront for some of the best seafood. Unfortunately this is also where you'll find the highest prices. Shrimp, crab, and a fresh catch of the day are common on many menus.

Blue Ridge has a huge number of terrific restaurants. You'll find plenty of small town restaurants serving local dishes like barbecue, trout, and biscuits with gravy. Southern food is popular, but you'll also find plenty of breweries and wineries in the area. Head downtown for an assortment of options that include southern, vegan, and even international flavors.

Is Clearwater or Blue Ridge Better for Nightlife?

Evening events are good in both Clearwater and Blue Ridge.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Clearwater. You'll find laid back beach clubs, glitzy wine bars, and relaxed bars where you can spend a nice night out.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Blue Ridge. Head downtown for a mix of breweries, bars, and clubs where you'll find live music and a casual meal.

Is Clearwater or Blue Ridge Better for Resorts?

Clearwater is a very popular place for its luxury resorts. However, Blue Ridge is not a resort destination.

There are plenty of resorts in Clearwater to choose from. You'll find a number of nice resorts along the coastline. Some of the most popular are the Sandpearl Resort, the Opal Sands Resort, and the Clearwater Beach Marriott.

Blue Ridge is not a resort destination.

Is Clearwater or Blue Ridge Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Clearwater is a good destination for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Blue Ridge is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Grab a mask and fins and explore the underwater scenery in Clearwater. There's both snorkeling and diving nearby. Some of the best dive spots are within and hour of the shore and you'll find diving shops that offer trips.

Blue Ridge is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Clearwater or Blue Ridge Better for Beaches?

Clearwater is an amazing coastal city to visit for its beaches. However, Blue Ridge is not a beach destination.

Clearwater offers stunning beaches that attract visitors from around the world. Clearwater Beach is on many lists as one of the best beaches in America. It's the most popular beach in the area and it spreads out over 2.5 miles. Sand Key Beach is another popular destination as is the pristine Caladesi Island State Park.

Blue Ridge is not a beach destination.

Is Clearwater or Blue Ridge Better for Hiking?

Blue Ridge is notable for the nearby hiking options. However, Clearwater is not a hiking destination.

Blue Ridge is a popular spot for hiking. There are miles of hiking trails in the area that take you to waterfalls and viewpoints. The starting point of the Appalachian Trail is also nearby, and another popular trail is the Benton MacKaye Trail. Options range from beginner to expert with everything in between.

Clearwater is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Clearwater or Blue Ridge?

Blue Ridge is notable for shopping. Also, Clearwater is not as famous, but is still a good coastal city to visit for its shopping opportunities.

Blue Ridge is an extremely popular place for shoppers. You'll find artisan shops, art galleries, and boutique clothing vendors. Many places are concentrated in the charming downtown area, which is fun to explore for a day or two.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Clearwater. You'll find all of the standard shopping options in the area such as malls, shopping centers, and outlets. Westfield Countryside Mall is a popular destination as is the Cleveland Street District.

Is Clearwater or Blue Ridge Better for Families?

Both Clearwater and Blue Ridge are excellent family-friendly destinations.

Clearwater is a very family-friendly place to visit. Check out the playground and activities around Pier 60. Less crowded and family-friendly Sand Key Park is another favorite spot and the playgrounds at New Coachman Park and Crest Lake Park are also fun. Clearwater Marine Aquarium is another popular attraction for visitors with kids.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Blue Ridge is very family-friendly. Kids who enjoy hiking and playing outdoors will have fun here. There are waterfall hikes, fruit picking farms, and plenty of playgrounds. There's also a scenic railway and lots of places to sample treats.

Is Clearwater or Blue Ridge Better for Couples?

Clearwater and Blue Ridge both excellent destinations for a couple.

Clearwater is a very popular place to visit for couples. There are beautiful parks and beaches as well as romantic activities like sunset cruises and dolphin spotting tours. Couples will also enjoy dining on local seafood and shopping at the local venues.

Blue Ridge makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. If you're looking for a cozy retreat where you can relax in a cabin, take long walks through nature, and enjoy local food, then this is your place. There are plenty of bed and breakfasts, vacation rentals, and rustic cabins with fireplaces and simple pleasures. If you want to escape it all then the mountains are the place to be.

Is Clearwater or Blue Ridge Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Blue Ridge is notable for backpackers. However, Clearwater is a mediocre coastal city for backpackers and budget travelers.

Backpackers come from all over to visit Blue Ridge. There are a number of campgrounds in the area as well as plenty of hikes that backpackers will enjoy. Nearby you'll also find the start of the famed Appalachian Trail.

Clearwater is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. There is a hostel in town, and you'll find more affordable prices than in some nearby beach destinations.

Is Clearwater or Blue Ridge Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Clearwater is a decent place to visit for times when you don't have a car. However, Blue Ridge is lacking in good options for its public transit.

Public transit is mostly limited in Clearwater. The Clearwater Jolley Trolley connects some of the area's highlights. There are also public buses that run several routes through town.

Public transit is limited or non-existant in Blue Ridge. There's no real public transportation system in the area.

Is Clearwater or Blue Ridge a more walkable city?

Clearwater and Blue Ridge both are good when exploring on foot.

Clearwater is somewhat walkable. The waterfront and downtown areas are surprisingly walkable.

Blue Ridge is a somewhat walkable place. While the downtown area is relatively walkable, if you want to hike and get out in nature, you'll need to have a car.

For even more information, also check out Is Clearwater Worth Visiting? and Is Blue Ridge Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Blue Ridge or Clearwater?

How long in Clearwater or Blue Ridge?

In either Clearwater or Blue Ridge, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. In our opinion, Clearwater has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Clearwater than Blue Ridge. In general, 3-5 days is a good amount of time for Clearwater, and 2-5 days is enough time in Blue Ridge.

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

Couples should spend more time in Clearwater than Blue Ridge. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Clearwater that are great for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Blue Ridge than Clearwater 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 Blue Ridge.

One day in Clearwater or Blue Ridge?

With food and scuba diving and snorkeling around the beautiful coastal city of Clearwater, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. One of the main draws to the area is the beaches. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

Blue Ridge might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Clearwater or Blue Ridge?

With scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping around the destination of Clearwater, there's plenty to do. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. It offers something for everyone. One of the main draws to the area is the beaches. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything.

Even though Blue Ridge is a small town, it has plenty of activities to choose from. 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 town.

Five days in Clearwater or Blue Ridge?

Clearwater, a popular coastal city, is full of activities for travelers. This is a popular place to visit for five days. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. In five days, you should have a good grasp of this coastal city. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Blue Ridge, a popular town, is full of activities for travelers. This is a popular place to visit for five days. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. In five days, you should have a good grasp of this town. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

A week in Clearwater or Blue Ridge?

Clearwater is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. One of the main draws to the area is the beaches. 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.

Blue Ridge 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.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in United States of America, The Best Polar Tours & Cruises in United States of America, The Best Walking Tours in United States of America, and The Best Tours Under $1000 in United States of America.

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

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Clearwater Expensive? and Is Blue Ridge Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Clearwater or Blue Ridge?

Clearwater has a larger population, and is about 90 times larger than the population of Blue Ridge. When comparing the sizes of Clearwater and Blue Ridge, 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.

When is the best time to visit Clearwater or Blue Ridge?

Both places have a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. As both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Clearwater or Blue Ridge in the Summer?

Both Blue Ridge and Clearwater during the summer are popular places to visit. The summer months attract visitors to Clearwater because of the beaches, snorkeling, and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Blue Ridge this time of year.

Clearwater is around the same temperature as Blue Ridge in the summer. The daily temperature in Clearwater averages around 82°F (28°C) in July, and Blue Ridge fluctuates around 81°F (27°C).

In Blue Ridge, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Clearwater. In the summer, Clearwater often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Blue Ridge. Clearwater gets 265 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Blue Ridge receives 265 hours of full sun.

Blue Ridge gets a good bit of rain this time of year. It rains a lot this time of the year in Clearwater. Clearwater usually gets more rain in July than Blue Ridge. Clearwater gets 8.4 inches (214 mm) of rain, while Blue Ridge receives 5.2 inches (131 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Clearwater or Blue Ridge in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Clearwater and Blue Ridge. The shopping scene are the main draw to Clearwater this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Blue Ridge for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Clearwater is a little warmer than Blue Ridge. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Clearwater in October average around 75°F (24°C), and Blue Ridge averages at about 63°F (17°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Blue Ridge this time of the year. In Clearwater, it's very sunny this time of the year. Clearwater usually receives more sunshine than Blue Ridge during autumn. Clearwater gets 234 hours of sunny skies, while Blue Ridge receives 211 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Clearwater usually receives less rain than Blue Ridge. Clearwater gets 2.6 inches (65 mm) of rain, while Blue Ridge receives 3 inches (75 mm) of rain each month for the autumn. June to November in Clearwater is the hurricane season.

Should I visit Clearwater or Blue Ridge in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Clearwater as well as Blue Ridge. Many travelers come to Clearwater for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Additionally, many visitors come to Blue Ridge in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Blue Ridge can get quite cold in the winter. In January, Clearwater is generally much warmer than Blue Ridge. Daily temperatures in Clearwater average around 60°F (15°C), and Blue Ridge fluctuates around 40°F (5°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Clearwater this time of the year. In the winter, Clearwater often gets more sunshine than Blue Ridge. Clearwater gets 200 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Blue Ridge receives 145 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Blue Ridge. Clearwater usually gets less rain in January than Blue Ridge. Clearwater gets 2.3 inches (59 mm) of rain, while Blue Ridge receives 5.4 inches (137 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Clearwater or Blue Ridge in the Spring?

Both Blue Ridge and Clearwater are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Clearwater in the spring for the beaches. Also, most visitors come to Blue Ridge for the small town charm and the natural beauty during these months.

Clearwater is a little warmer than Blue Ridge in the spring. The daily temperature in Clearwater averages around 71°F (22°C) in April, and Blue Ridge fluctuates around 62°F (17°C).

It's quite sunny in Blue Ridge. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Clearwater. Clearwater usually receives more sunshine than Blue Ridge during spring. Clearwater gets 299 hours of sunny skies, while Blue Ridge receives 243 hours of full sun in the spring.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Blue Ridge. In April, Clearwater usually receives less rain than Blue Ridge. Clearwater gets 2.1 inches (53 mm) of rain, while Blue Ridge receives 4.4 inches (112 mm) of rain each month for the spring. The hurricane season in Clearwater is June to November.

Typical Weather for Blue Ridge and Clearwater