A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Key West vs. Asheville for Nightlife, Resorts, Old Town, and Families

Should you visit Key West or Asheville?

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

Should I visit Key West or Asheville? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

Key West

Key West is a lively, quaint, and laid-back town. Don't miss this spot, as it's a charming small town with plenty of activities. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. With a quaint atmosphere, it also offers a unique feeling. And you can't forget about the scuba diving and snorkeling, beaches, and nightlife.

Asheville

Asheville is a eclectic, outdoorsy, and progressive mountain town. It's a beautiful place to visit, too. This destination also has one of those special and quaint feelings. And you can't forget about the food, hiking, and shopping.

Key West and Asheville: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Key West or Asheville?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Asheville than Key West, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Asheville is better known for its music, hiking, shopping, and christmas markets, while Key West is more popular for its resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, historical sights, small town charm, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere. Key West is more touristy than Asheville and is known for its festive nightlife, quirky town center, colorful personality, adrenaline-filled watersports, stunning beaches, turquoise water, and location at the southernmost point of the continental U.S. Asheville is well known for its fall foliage, artsy downtown, local North Carolina barbecue, and being home to the Biltmore Estate. Also, Asheville is famous for The Biltmore Estate.

How is Key West different from Asheville?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is the Food Better in Key West or Asheville? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

There are opportunities to sample the local cuisine at notable restaurants in both Key West and Asheville.

Visitors will find a budding food and restaurant scene in Key West. Head to town for local restaurants with quirky atmospheres. There are many local dishes to sample, be the town is most known for its stone crabs, conch fritters, and Mahi Mahi sandwiches. You'll also find cold drinks and waterfront dining areas.

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.

Is Key West or Asheville Better for Nightlife?

Evening events are superb in both Key West and Asheville.

Key West has plenty to do after the sun goes down. This area has some of the most lively nightlife in the Florida Keys. There are quirky bars and fun hangouts where you can spend the evening. The party starts at Mallory Square around sunset and many bars stay open well into the early hours. You can also enjoy sunset cruises or pass your time at one of the many tiki bars.

Asheville has a lively atmosphere and nightlife is popular here. The city has a fun and eclectic nightlife scene that centers around the city's breweries and live music venues.

Is Key West or Asheville Better for Music?

Asheville is notable for its live music scene. However, Key West is not a live music destination.

If you love music, you'll find something to enjoy in Asheville. The city has grown into a world famous music destination that holds true to its mountain roots and independent artists.

Key West is not a live music destination.

Is Key West or Asheville Better for Resorts?

Key West is well known for its resorts. Also, Asheville is still popular, but not quite as popular for its luxury resorts.

There are plenty of resorts in Key West to choose from. There are a number of high end resorts around the island, many with recognizable names such as the Hyatt and Hilton. Prices can be high, but these resorts often come with reliable luxury.

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.

Is Key West or Asheville Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Key West is a good destination for its diving and snorkeling. However, Asheville is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Grab a mask and fins and explore the underwater scenery in Key West. There are a number of dive shops and snorkeling excursions that leave from Key West. Like many tourist areas these days, the coral shows its damage from the crowds, but you'll likely see some barracuda or a Grouper.

Asheville is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Key West or Asheville Better for Beaches?

Key West is well known for the beache. However, Asheville is not a beach destination.

Many people visit Key West for it's beautiful beaches. One of the best beaches in the area is Fort Zachary Taylor Historic State Park. The beach has soft sand and stunning turquoise water. As is typical in the Keys, the water stays shallow for great distances.

Asheville is not a beach destination.

Is Key West or Asheville Better for its Old Town?

Key West is well known for its old town. However, Asheville is not particularly known for its historic old town charm.

There are many historical things to see in the old town of Key West. The town has the most charming Old Town areas in the Florida Keys. Head to Mallory Square for the sunset street performers and explore the historic streets around Duval Street.

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.

Is Key West or Asheville Better for Hiking?

Asheville is notable for the nearby hiking options. However, Key West is not a hiking destination.

Asheville is a popular spot for hiking. 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.

Key West is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Key West or Asheville?

Asheville is notable for its shopping opportunities. However, Key West is a mediocre town for its shopping areas.

Asheville is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. 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.

Key West has some good spots for those that want to go shopping. While it definitely has its share of gimmicky souvenir shops and t-shirt stores, there are still a number of art galleries and local shops around Key West where you can enjoy shopping.

Is Key West or Asheville Better for Christmas?

Asheville is notable for its Christmas activities. However, Key West does not offer Christmas activities.

Asheville is an extremely popular place to visit during the Christmas season. 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.

Key West does not offer Christmas activities.

Is Key West or Asheville Better for Christmas Markets?

Asheville is a moderate mountain town for its Christmas markets. However, Key West does not offer Christmas markets.

Asheville has some Christmas markets worth visiting during the holidays. There are a handful of local Christmas shops around town where you can buy personalized gifts.

Key West does not offer Christmas markets.

Is Key West or Asheville Better for Families?

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Key West or Asheville.

Key West is a very kid-friendly town. Families that enjoy snorkeling, aquariums, water sports, and exploring new places will enjoy visiting this part of the Florida Keys. There are many ways to get out on the water from kayaking and snorkeling to glass bottom boat tours and sunset cruises. There are also many kid-friendly beaches in the area. The town can have a party atmosphere, but it's not hard to find a more family-friendly area where everyone can have fun.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Asheville. 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 Key West or Asheville Better for Couples?

With fun activities for couples, both Key West and Asheville make for a superb place to visit.

Key West is a very popular place to visit for couples. From Mallory Square to the beautiful nearby parks, Key West makes a wonderful, romantic destination. Whether it's your honeymoon, an anniversary, or simply a couples' retreat, Key West is a great option. You can sip wine on a sunset cruise or dine at one of the many character-filled restaurants in town. If you are looking for a party, it's not hard to find, but if you want a more laid back holiday, that's also possible.

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.

Is Key West or Asheville Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Asheville is notable for backpackers. However, Key West is a mediocre town for backpackers and budget travelers.

Asheville is a great mountain town to visit for backpackers. 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.

Key West is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. Key West is a pretty expensive destination, but there are Airbnbs and even a hostel or two that cater to budget backpackers.

Is Key West or Asheville Better for Students?

Key West and Asheville are both superb destinations for students and younger travelers.

Key West is a very popular town for students and younger travelers. It's a great spring break destination with a quirky personality and many great activities.

Asheville is very popular with students. With its progressive personality and charming downtown, students enjoy spending time in this great town.

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

Asheville is a moderate mountain town for its public transit. However, Key West is a mediocre town for times when you don't have a car.

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

Public transit is quite limited in Key West. Public transportation in Key West is limited to a few buses.

Is Key West or Asheville a more walkable city?

Key West and Asheville both are notable when exploring on foot.

Key West is a somewhat walkable place. The town is the most walkable part of the Florida Keys. The area around Mallory Square and Duval Street is the most pedestrian friendly.

Asheville is a somewhat walkable 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.

For even more information, also check out Is Key West Worth Visiting? and Is Asheville Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Asheville or Key West?

How long in Key West or Asheville?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Key West and Asheville. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Key West than in Asheville. Usually, 5-7 days is a good amount of time for Key West, and 2-3 days is enough time in Asheville.

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

Couples should spend more time in Asheville than Key West. 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 Key West 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 Key West or Asheville?

You'll find food and scuba diving and snorkeling around the quaint town of Key West. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. 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.

The mountain town of Asheville offers live music and food. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

A weekend in Key West or Asheville?

You'll find scuba diving and snorkeling and nightlife around the quaint destination of Key West. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Asheville is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this mountain town makes for a great vacation. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Asheville, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Key West or Asheville?

You'll find nightlife and food around the bustling town of Key West. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this town makes for a great vacation. It's also a relaxing resort destination. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this town has to offer.

Asheville is a popular choice for travelers. 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. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A week in Key West or Asheville?

Key West is a popular choice for travelers. One week here is typical. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Key West, one week is sufficent for most. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Asheville is a great place to explore. 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. This mountain town offers something for everyone.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Los Angeles, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from New York City, The Best 2-Week Tours from New York City, and The Best 2-Week Tours from Anchorage.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Key West and Asheville, we can see that Key West 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 Key West would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Key West 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 Key West Expensive? and Is Asheville Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Key West or Asheville?

Asheville has a larger population, and is about 3 times larger than the population of Key West. When comparing the sizes of Key West and Asheville, 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 Key West or Asheville?

Both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. And since both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Key West or Asheville in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Key West and Asheville. Most visitors come to Key West for the beaches, snorkeling, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Furthermore, the summer months attract visitors to Asheville because of the hiking, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

Key West is around the same temperature as Asheville in the summer. The daily temperature in Key West averages around 84°F (29°C) in July, and Asheville fluctuates around 82°F (28°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Asheville this time of the year. In Key West, it's very sunny this time of the year. Key West usually receives more sunshine than Asheville during summer. Key West gets 328 hours of sunny skies, while Asheville receives 268 hours of full sun in the summer.

Asheville receives a lot of rain in the summer. In July, Key West usually receives less rain than Asheville. Key West gets 3.3 inches (83 mm) of rain, while Asheville receives 5.4 inches (137 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Key West or Asheville in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Key West as well as Asheville. The autumn months attract visitors to Key West because of the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area. Additionally, the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Asheville this time of year.

In the autumn, Key West is a little warmer than Asheville. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Key West in October average around 80°F (27°C), and Asheville averages at about 64°F (18°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Asheville. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Key West this time of the year. In the autumn, Key West often gets more sunshine than Asheville. Key West gets 258 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Asheville receives 229 hours of full sun.

Key West receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Key West usually gets more rain in October than Asheville. Key West gets 5.1 inches (129 mm) of rain, while Asheville receives 3.4 inches (86 mm) of rain this time of the year. Also, the hurricane season in Key West is June to November.

Should I visit Key West or Asheville in the Winter?

Both Asheville and Key West are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The shopping scene and the cuisine are the main draw to Key West this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Asheville for the Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

In January, Key West is generally much warmer than Asheville. Daily temperatures in Key West average around 70°F (21°C), and Asheville fluctuates around 44°F (7°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Key West. Key West usually receives more sunshine than Asheville during winter. Key West gets 252 hours of sunny skies, while Asheville receives 176 hours of full sun in the winter.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Asheville. In January, Key West usually receives less rain than Asheville. Key West gets 1.7 inches (43 mm) of rain, while Asheville receives 3.9 inches (100 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Key West or Asheville in the Spring?

Both Asheville and Key West during the spring are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Key West for the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty. Also, many visitors come to Asheville in the spring for the natural beauty.

Key West is a little warmer than Asheville in the spring. The daily temperature in Key West averages around 77°F (25°C) in April, and Asheville fluctuates around 64°F (18°C).

In Asheville, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Key West. In the spring, Key West often gets more sunshine than Asheville. Key West gets 326 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Asheville receives 266 hours of full sun.

Asheville gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Key West usually gets less rain in April than Asheville. Key West gets 0.8 inches (21 mm) of rain, while Asheville receives 4.4 inches (112 mm) of rain this time of the year. Keep in mind that June to November is the hurricane season in Key West.

Typical Weather for Asheville and Key West