A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Key West vs. Chimney Rock and Lake Lure for Nightlife, Families, Couples, and Backpackers

Should you visit Key West or Chimney Rock and Lake Lure?

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

Should I visit Key West or Chimney Rock and Lake Lure? 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 eclectic, bustling, and active town. Don't miss this spot, as it's a charming small town with plenty of activities. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. With a quaint atmosphere, it also offers a unique feeling. Other popular activities here include scuba diving and snorkeling, beaches, and nightlife.

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is a peaceful, active, and beautiful recreation area. It's a beautiful place to visit, too. And you can't forget about the hiking.

Key West and Chimney Rock and Lake Lure: Pros and Cons

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

Tourists will generally find more to do in Key West. Although Key West and Chimney Rock and Lake Lure are both popular with visitors, Key West has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Key West is more popular for its food, nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, historical sights, small town charm, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere, while Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is known for its museums and hiking. Key West is more touristy than Chimney Rock and Lake Lure 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. It is also home to Duval Street. Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is popular for its beautiful views and fun outdoor activities.

How is Key West different from Chimney Rock and Lake Lure?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Key West or Chimney Rock and Lake Lure?

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is a moderate recreation area for its sights and museums. However, Key West does not have museums and landmarks.

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.

Key West does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Key West is a town 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 Key West area. 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.

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 Key West or Chimney Rock and Lake Lure Better for Nightlife?

Key West 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 Key West know how to have a good time. 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.

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure doesn't have the most active nightlife scene. Most people head into nearby Asheville for the best nightlife.

Is Key West or Chimney Rock and Lake Lure Better for Resorts?

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

In Key West, you'll find some of the region's top resorts. 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.

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is not a resort destination.

Is Key West or Chimney Rock and Lake Lure Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Key West is a town with good options for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

It's fun to get in the water and check out the local marine life 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.

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Key West or Chimney Rock and Lake Lure Better for Beaches?

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

The beaches at Key West attract visitors from all over. 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.

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is not a beach destination.

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

Key West is a great destination for its historic old town charm. However, Chimney Rock and Lake Lure does not have a historic old town.

Key West is an extremely popular place to visit the historic old town area. 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.

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

Is Key West or Chimney Rock and Lake Lure Better for Hiking?

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is notable for the nearby hiking options. However, Key West is not a hiking destination.

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is a popular spot for hiking. 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.

Key West is not a hiking destination.

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

Both Key West and Chimney Rock and Lake Lure are decent shopping destinations.

If you're looking to go shopping, Key West has some nice offerings. 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.

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure has some good spots for those that want to go shopping. You'll find the standard shopping centers in the area, but for the best shopping, head over to Asheville.

Is Key West or Chimney Rock and Lake Lure Better for Families?

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Key West or Chimney Rock and Lake Lure.

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 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.

Is Key West or Chimney Rock and Lake Lure Better for Couples?

With fun activities for couples, both Key West and Chimney Rock and Lake Lure make for a excellent 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.

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure makes for a fun place to visit for 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 Key West or Chimney Rock and Lake Lure Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is notable for backpackers. However, Key West is a mediocre town for backpackers and budget travelers.

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is a great recreation area to visit for backpackers. There are several great campgrounds and plenty of hiking trails that make this a nice budget or backpacker getaway.

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 Chimney Rock and Lake Lure Better for Students?

Key West is a great destination for students. However, Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is not popular with students.

Students come from all over to stay in Key West. It's a great spring break destination with a quirky personality and many great activities.

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is not popular with students.

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

Neither Key West or Chimney Rock and Lake Lure offer decent public transit.

Public transit is limited or non-existant in Key West. Public transportation in Key West is limited to a few buses.

Public transit is quite limited in Chimney Rock and Lake Lure. There is limited public transit in the area.

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

Key West is a town 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.

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

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is not a very walkable town. The trails and parks in the region are spread out and require a car to access.

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

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

How long in Key West or Chimney Rock and Lake Lure?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Key West and Chimney Rock and Lake Lure. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Key West than in Chimney Rock and Lake Lure. Usually, 5-7 days is a good amount of time for Key West, and 1-3 days is enough time in Chimney Rock and Lake Lure.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Key West 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 Key West.

One day in Key West or Chimney Rock and Lake Lure?

In Key West, many people enjoy the nightlife and food that this bustling destination offers. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

The recreation area of Chimney Rock and Lake Lure offers . Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one day here. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

A weekend in Key West or Chimney Rock and Lake Lure?

In Key West, many people enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling 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. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything.

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this recreation area 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 Chimney Rock and Lake Lure, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Key West or Chimney Rock and Lake Lure?

In Key West, many people enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and nightlife that this active destination offers. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. This is a popular place to visit for five days.Five days is often enough time to do most activities. This town offers something for everyone.

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure 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 Chimney Rock and Lake Lure?

In Key West, many people enjoy the nightlife and food that this beautiful town offers. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. If you have one week, this town makes for a great vacation. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. Because of this, one week is usually enough time for a trip here.

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure 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 recreation area 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 Chimney Rock and Lake Lure, we can see that Key West is more expensive. And not only is Chimney Rock and Lake Lure much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Chimney Rock and Lake Lure would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Chimney Rock and Lake Lure 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 Chimney Rock and Lake Lure.

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 Chimney Rock and Lake Lure Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Key West or Chimney Rock and Lake Lure?

Key West has a larger population, and is about 150 times larger than the population of Chimney Rock and Lake Lure. When comparing the sizes of Key West and Chimney Rock and Lake Lure, 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.