A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Jekyll Island vs. Asheville for Hiking, Families, Couples, and Backpackers

Should you visit Jekyll Island or Asheville?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Jekyll Island and Asheville 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.

Jekyll Island

Jekyll Island is a relaxing, secluded, and natural island. And you can't forget about the hiking, museums, and beaches.

Asheville

Asheville is a outdoorsy, progressive, and open-minded mountain town. It offers plenty of beauty for visitors. As this is a very quaint destination, you'll find it has a special atmosphere. It's also popular because of the nightlife, live music, and food.

Jekyll Island and Asheville: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Jekyll Island or Asheville?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Asheville. Although Jekyll Island and Asheville are both popular with visitors, Asheville has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Asheville is more popular for its food, nightlife, music, resorts, historical sights, shopping, christmas markets, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere, while Jekyll Island is known for its museums and beaches. Jekyll Island is popular for its quiet beaches and its Historic District. Asheville is popular for its fall foliage, artsy downtown, local North Carolina barbecue, and being home to the Biltmore Estate. It is also home to The Biltmore Estate.

How is Jekyll Island different from Asheville?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Jekyll Island or Asheville?

Jekyll Island is a good destination for its museums and landmarks. However, Asheville does not have museums and landmarks.

Jekyll Island offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. Mosaic is the history museum on the island. The museum also offers historic tours of the area's sites. The Historic District is a popular place to visit with its well-maintained historic cottages and other structures.

Asheville does not have museums and landmarks.

Is the Food Better in Jekyll Island or Asheville? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Asheville is a mountain town with good options for its restaurants. However, Jekyll Island is lacking in good options for its restaurant scene.

Asheville is becoming an appealing option for foodies. Downtown Asheville is filled with local restaurants that serve everything from brunch to late night snacks. There are many vegan and vegetarian options as well as a number of international restaurants. Popular local dishes include North Carolina barbeque and country ham biscuits.

Jekyll Island offers some easy restaurants to choose from. Many restaurants are casual with low country dishes or fried seafood. You'll find some brunch places as well as cafes and quick dining eateries around town.

Is Jekyll Island or Asheville Better for Nightlife?

Asheville is a very popular place for its evening party scene. However, Jekyll Island is lacking in good options for nightlife.

Asheville has a large number of nightlife venues. The city has a fun and eclectic nightlife scene that centers around the city's breweries and live music venues.

Things get quiet in the evenings in Jekyll Island. There are sunset cruises, but otherwise the nightlife scene is quiet.

Is Jekyll Island or Asheville Better for Music?

Asheville is a very popular place for its music scene. However, Jekyll Island is not a live music destination.

It's worth checking out the music scene in Asheville while you're in town. The city has grown into a world famous music destination that holds true to its mountain roots and independent artists.

Jekyll Island is not a live music destination.

Is Jekyll Island or Asheville Better for Resorts?

Asheville is a mountain town with good options for its luxury resorts. However, Jekyll Island is lacking in good options for its resorts.

Asheville has a few great resort options. The most famous resorts in the area are the Biltmore Estate and the Grove Park Inn. Both offer luxury restaurants and beautiful grounds that are particularly nice during the holidays.

Jekyll Island has a few resort options worth checking out. You'll mostly find mid-range hotels on the island.

Is Jekyll Island or Asheville Better for Beaches?

Jekyll Island is well known for the beache. However, Asheville is not a beach destination.

Many people visit Jekyll Island for it's beautiful beaches. Unspoiled beaches are the biggest draw. Some areas are rocky, but the beaches are peaceful and perfect for walks if you want to get away from the crowds. Much of the island is a state park, so it's undeveloped and pristine.

Asheville is not a beach destination.

Is Jekyll Island or Asheville Better for its Old Town?

Asheville is a decent place to visit for its historic old town charm. However, Jekyll Island does not have a historic old town.

The old town area in Asheville is worth visiting. Downtown Asheville maintains much of its historic vibe, but it's smaller than some of the more notable old cities around the country.

Jekyll Island does not have a historic old town.

Is Jekyll Island or Asheville Better for Hiking?

Both Jekyll Island and Asheville are destinations which offer very good hiking.

Many visitors explore the nearby hiking trails while visiting Jekyll Island. The state park has some trails that are nice. There are also beach walks, bike trails, and routes that take you through historic sites.

You'll find a nice variety of hiking trails around Asheville. Just outside of town are many great hikes to waterfalls or through the mountains. The hikes range in skill level and length but many pass through local forests or along the beautiful skyline.

Is the Shopping Better in Jekyll Island or Asheville?

Asheville is a very popular place for its shopping areas. However, Jekyll Island is lacking in good options for shopping.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in Asheville. The city has many local shops that sell local crafts and independent art. The downtown area is filled with art vendors and you'll find the greatest concentration of shopping along the pedestrian-friendly Lexington Avenue.

Jekyll Island is a good destination for shopping. You'll find a few gift shops and boutiques, but in general, shopping options are limited.

Is Jekyll Island or Asheville Better for Christmas?

Asheville is a very popular place for its Christmas holiday experiences. However, Jekyll Island does not offer Christmas activities.

Since it has plenty to do, Asheville is a very popular place to visit during Christmas. Head to the Biltmore Estate to see it fully decorated for the Christmas season. It's also worth going to see the winning Gingerbread Houses on display at the Grove Park Inn.

Jekyll Island does not offer Christmas activities.

Is Jekyll Island or Asheville Better for Christmas Markets?

Asheville is a decent place to visit for visiting Christmas markets. However, Jekyll Island does not offer Christmas markets.

During the holidays, visitors often browse through the Christmas markets in Asheville. There are a handful of local Christmas shops around town where you can buy personalized gifts.

Jekyll Island does not offer Christmas markets.

Is Jekyll Island or Asheville Better for Families?

Both Jekyll Island and Asheville are very good to visit with kids.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Jekyll Island. Kids will love climbing and playing at Driftwood Beach, which is like a natural playground. Animal lovers will enjoy dolphin cruises or a visit to a turtle hospital. There's also the standard beach activities like minigolf, bike rental, and tram tours.

Asheville is a very family-friendly place to visit. With its beautiful hiking, interesting nature centers, and outdoor adventure activities, this mountain town makes a great kid-friendly destination. There are outdoor adventure parks where kids can zipline or climb. There are also hands on farms and orchards for fruit-picking.

Is Jekyll Island or Asheville Better for Couples?

Asheville is a very popular place for couples. Also, Jekyll Island is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for romance.

Asheville makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Couples enjoy exploring the beautiful Biltmore Estates or visiting the spa at the Grove Park Inn. The quaint town makes a great honeymoon destination or a nice romantic getaway. There are luxury hotels or intimate bed and breakfasts that offer different options for couples on a romantic trip.

Jekyll Island is a nice destination for couples. There are several basic hotels as well as a few campgrounds. Couples will enjoy the beaches, but the island is small with limited activities and restaurant options. If you love natural scenery then this is a great destination, but there are fewer amenities than there are in many beach areas.

Is Jekyll Island or Asheville Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Asheville is a very popular place for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Jekyll Island is lacking in good options for backpackers.

Plenty of budget travelers and backpackers visit Asheville. The town has an eclectic vibe that backpackers appreciate. There are a few good hostels around town as well as nearby campgrounds that are perfect for budget travelers or hikers.

Jekyll Island is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. There are a few campgrounds in the area as well as some nice beaches.

Is Jekyll Island or Asheville Better for Students?

Asheville is a very popular place for its student-friendly activities. However, Jekyll Island is not popular with students.

Students come from all over to stay in Asheville. With its progressive personality and charming downtown, students enjoy spending time in this great town.

Jekyll Island is not popular with students.

Is Jekyll Island or Asheville Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

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

Public transit is mostly limited in Asheville. There are buses around town, but almost everyone gets around town with their own vehicle.

Public transit is limited or non-existant in Jekyll Island. There are bus and trolley tours, but public transportation is mostly non-existent.

Is Jekyll Island or Asheville a more walkable city?

Asheville is a mountain town with good options for its ease of walking around. However, Jekyll Island is lacking in good options for its walkability.

Asheville is a somewhat walkable mountain town. If you stay downtown and don't plan to explore the outlying areas, then it's possible to walk around town. Otherwise, you'll need a car.

Jekyll Island is not a walkable island. Resources are spread out, so you really need a car to get around.

For even more information, also check out Is Jekyll Island Worth Visiting? and Is Asheville Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Asheville or Jekyll Island?

How long in Jekyll Island or Asheville?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Jekyll Island and Asheville. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Jekyll Island than in Asheville. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Jekyll Island, and 2-3 days is enough time in Asheville.

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

Couples should spend more time in Asheville than Jekyll Island. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Asheville that are perfect for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Asheville than Jekyll Island 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 Asheville.

One day in Jekyll Island or Asheville?

You'll find museums around the island of Jekyll Island. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Many travelers enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the outdoorsy destination of Asheville. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. Your budget might influence how long you stay. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

A weekend in Jekyll Island or Asheville?

You'll find museums around the secluded destination of Jekyll Island. 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 island has to offer. This island offers a variety of activities to choose from.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Asheville. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. A weekend is usually enough time to experience most activities.

Five days in Jekyll Island or Asheville?

Travelers enjoy the museums when visiting the natural island of Jekyll Island. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. It's also a great beach destination, too. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and live music when visiting the eclectic destination of Asheville. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. This mountain town offers a variety of activities to choose from. Five days 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.

A week in Jekyll Island or Asheville?

Jekyll Island is a popular choice for travelers. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. 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.

You'll find live music and food around the mountain town of Asheville. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 2-Week Tours from Los Angeles, The Best Family-Friendly Tours to United States of America, The Best Wildlife Tours to United States of America, and The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in United States of America.

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

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

When is the best time to visit Jekyll Island or Asheville?

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 Jekyll Island or Asheville in the Summer?

Both Asheville and Jekyll Island during the summer are popular places to visit. The beaches, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Jekyll Island this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Asheville for the hiking, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Jekyll Island is generally around the same temperature as Asheville. Daily temperatures in Jekyll Island average around 82°F (28°C), and Asheville fluctuates around 82°F (28°C).

In Asheville, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Jekyll Island. In the summer, Jekyll Island often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Asheville. Jekyll Island gets 286 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Asheville receives 268 hours of full sun.

Asheville gets a good bit of rain this time of year. It rains a lot this time of the year in Jekyll Island. Jekyll Island usually gets around the same amount of rain in July as Asheville. Jekyll Island gets 5.4 inches (137 mm) of rain, while Asheville receives 5.4 inches (137 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Jekyll Island or Asheville in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Jekyll Island and Asheville. Many travelers come to Jekyll Island for the hiking trails and the shopping scene. Also, many visitors come to Asheville in the autumn for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

Jekyll Island is a little warmer than Asheville in the autumn. The daily temperature in Jekyll Island averages around 70°F (21°C) in October, and Asheville fluctuates around 64°F (18°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Asheville this time of the year. In Jekyll Island, it's very sunny this time of the year. Jekyll Island usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Asheville during autumn. Jekyll Island gets 214 hours of sunny skies, while Asheville receives 229 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Jekyll Island usually receives less rain than Asheville. Jekyll Island gets 2.9 inches (73 mm) of rain, while Asheville receives 3.4 inches (86 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Jekyll Island or Asheville in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Jekyll Island as well as Asheville. Many visitors come to Jekyll Island in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Asheville for the Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

In the winter, Jekyll Island is much warmer than Asheville. Typically, the winter temperatures in Jekyll Island in January average around 53°F (12°C), and Asheville averages at about 44°F (7°C).

In the winter, Jekyll Island often gets more sunshine than Asheville. Jekyll Island gets 191 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Asheville receives 176 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Asheville. Jekyll Island usually gets less rain in January than Asheville. Jekyll Island gets 3.3 inches (83 mm) of rain, while Asheville receives 3.9 inches (100 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Jekyll Island or Asheville in the Spring?

Both Asheville and Jekyll Island are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Jekyll Island for the beaches during these months. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Asheville because of the natural beauty.

In April, Jekyll Island is generally a little warmer than Asheville. Daily temperatures in Jekyll Island average around 68°F (20°C), and Asheville fluctuates around 64°F (18°C).

It's quite sunny in Asheville. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Jekyll Island. Jekyll Island usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Asheville during spring. Jekyll Island gets 285 hours of sunny skies, while Asheville receives 266 hours of full sun in the spring.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Asheville. In April, Jekyll Island usually receives less rain than Asheville. Jekyll Island gets 2.8 inches (72 mm) of rain, while Asheville receives 4.4 inches (112 mm) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Asheville and Jekyll Island