A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Orlando vs. Asheville for Resorts, Families, Food, and Nightlife

Should you visit Orlando or Asheville?

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

Should I visit Orlando 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.

Orlando

Orlando is a entertaining, active, and family-friendly city. And you can't forget about the shopping, theater, and nightlife.

Asheville

Asheville is a open-minded, eclectic, and outdoorsy mountain town. It's a gorgeous place to visit. This is a quaint and attractive place to visit, too. Other reasons to visit include food, hiking, and shopping.

Orlando and Asheville: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Orlando or Asheville?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Orlando than Asheville. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Orlando is very popular for its theatre productions, food, and resorts, while Asheville attracts visitors for its nightlife, music, historical sights, hiking, christmas markets, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere. Orlando is more touristy than Asheville and is popular for being the home of Walt Disney World, Universal Orlando, and many other theme parks and family-friendly activities. It is also well known for Disney World, Universal Studios, and the city's many amusement parks. Asheville is famous for its fall foliage, artsy downtown, local North Carolina barbecue, and being home to the Biltmore Estate.

How is Orlando different from Asheville?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Orlando or Asheville Better for Theater?

Orlando is a good destination for its theatre productions. However, Asheville is not a theatre destination.

With some theater and performance venues, you might want to see a show in Orlando. The city has a number of local theaters that are fun to explore. As home to Disney World and Universal Studios, there are also a number of shows available that are affiliated with the parks.

Asheville is not a theatre destination.

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

Orlando is well known for its restaurant scene. Also, Asheville is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Orlando. There are a diversity of restaurants on the Disney grounds and nearby. You'll also find many restaurants at Universal CityWalk and Disney Springs. Food can be expensive, and the quality can vary dramatically. Many people enjoy going to dinner shows as well. Restaurants can be challenging also, as reservations must be made months in advance.

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 Orlando or Asheville Better for Nightlife?

Asheville is great for nightlife. Also, Orlando is not as popular, but is still a nice city for nightlife and partying.

Many people head to Asheville for the nightlife scene. The city has a fun and eclectic nightlife scene that centers around the city's breweries and live music venues.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Orlando. If you need a break from the kids, you'll find some of the best nightlife around Orlando at Disney Springs, Wall Street Plaza and Universal CityWalk.

Is Orlando or Asheville Better for Music?

Asheville is great for live music. However, Orlando is not a live music destination.

The music scene in Asheville draws a good crowd. The city has grown into a world famous music destination that holds true to its mountain roots and independent artists.

Orlando is not a live music destination.

Is Orlando or Asheville Better for Resorts?

Orlando is an unbeatable place for its resorts. Also, Asheville is still popular, but not quite as popular for its luxury resorts.

Vacationers flock to Orlando for its luxury resorts. Disney World is famous for its many iconic resorts. Some of the most popular are the Animal Kingdom Lodge, Port Orleans Resort, and the Grand Floridian Resort. There are also many resorts that aren't affiliated with the major theme parks. These tend to be more affordable, but transportation options to and from the park are limited. You'll also miss out on the perks that come with staying at a theme park resort.

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 Orlando or Asheville Better for its Old Town?

Asheville is adequate for its historic old town. However, Orlando does not have a historic old town.

Asheville is a good place to visit the old town. Downtown Asheville maintains much of its historic vibe, but it's smaller than some of the more notable old cities around the country.

Orlando does not have a historic old town.

Is Orlando or Asheville Better for Hiking?

Asheville is great for hiking. However, Orlando is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors go to Asheville for the hiking trails. 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.

Orlando is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Orlando or Asheville?

If you're looking to go shopping, Orlando and Asheville both offer plenty of superb spots.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Orlando. Shopping is a dream for any Disney enthusiast. There are countless malls and shops, both on and off the Disney grounds, that sell all of the Disney paraphernalia. Disney Springs and Universal CityWalk are the most famous areas. During the evenings, these areas can be very crowded, but during the day they're less popular as most people are at the theme parks.

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.

Is Orlando or Asheville Better for Christmas?

Orlando is an unbeatable place for its Christmas activities. Also, Asheville is still popular, but not quite as popular for its Christmas holiday experiences.

During Christmas, Orlando is not to be missed. Christmas at Disney World is lots of fun. There are decorations and all kinds of seasonal activities around town.

Asheville is a very popular destination 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.

Is Orlando or Asheville Better for Christmas Markets?

Asheville is adequate for visiting Christmas markets. However, Orlando does not offer Christmas markets.

Asheville is a good spot to see some Christmas markets. There are a handful of local Christmas shops around town where you can buy personalized gifts.

Orlando does not offer Christmas markets.

Is Orlando or Asheville Better for Families?

Orlando is an unbeatable place for its family-friendly activities. Also, Asheville is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

With a huge array of activities for kids, Orlando is very family-friendly. Known as a theme park capital, here you'll find the iconic Disney World, as well as Universal Studios, SeaWorld and many more. While most people spend their vacation at the Disney or Universal resorts, there is also an endless supply of less mainstream parks and activities in the area.

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 Orlando or Asheville Better for Couples?

Asheville is great for romance. Also, Orlando is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its romantic activities.

Asheville is a great mountain town if you're traveling as 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.

Orlando makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. While most people visit the area with family, there is a niche crowd that enjoys honeymooning or vacationing here as a couple. There are many beautiful restaurants and interesting activities that couples can enjoy together. This is the perfect trip for fun loving couples who don't take themselves to seriously.

Is Orlando or Asheville Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Asheville is great for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Orlando is not a good destination for backpackers.

Asheville is very popular with the backpacker crowd. 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.

Orlando is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. It's not exactly a backpacker destination, but there are a surprising number of cheap motels that aren't affiliated with the major parks.

Is Orlando or Asheville Better for Students?

Asheville is great for its student-friendly activities. Also, Orlando is not as popular, but is still a nice city for students.

Asheville is a very popular mountain town for students and younger travelers. With its progressive personality and charming downtown, students enjoy spending time in this great town.

Orlando is a good city to visit for students. Most people don't think about education when they think about Orlando, but there are actually a diversity of internships and opportunities for students to learn in a fun setting.

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

Orlando and Asheville both offer reasonable public transit to get you around.

Public transit is mostly limited in Orlando. If you're staying at a Disney Property, there is excellent transportation around the complex, but otherwise, a car is essential.

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

Is Orlando or Asheville a more walkable city?

Asheville is a popular place for its walkability. However, Orlando is not a good destination for its high level of walkability.

Asheville is somewhat walkable. 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.

Orlando is not a walkable city. The city is sprawling, so unless you stay on the Disney grounds, it's best to rent a car.

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

Should I spend more time in Asheville or Orlando?

How long in Orlando or Asheville?

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

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

Couples should spend more time in Asheville than Orlando. 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 Orlando 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 Orlando or Asheville?

You'll find shopping and theater around the city of Orlando. 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.

In Asheville, you'll find nightlife and live music. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. This mountain town offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

A weekend in Orlando or Asheville?

You'll find theater and nightlife around the entertaining destination of Orlando. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

In Asheville, you'll find live music and food. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Asheville has to offer.

Five days in Orlando or Asheville?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the family-friendly city of Orlando. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. It's also a relaxing resort destination. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Asheville is a great place to explore. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

A week in Orlando or Asheville?

Orlando is a popular choice for travelers. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Asheville. Many people enjoy the shopping and nightlife when visiting Asheville. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in United States of America, The Best 2-Week Tours in United States of America, The Best 3-Week Tours in United States of America, and The Best Bicycle Tours in United States of America.

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

Which is Bigger, Orlando or Asheville?

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

The summer brings many poeple to Orlando as well as Asheville. Most visitors come to Orlando for the family-friendly experiences during these months. Additionally, the summer months attract visitors to Asheville because of the hiking, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Orlando is around the same temperature as Asheville. Typically, the summer temperatures in Orlando in July average around 82°F (28°C), and Asheville averages at about 82°F (28°C).

It's quite rainy in Asheville. Orlando receives a lot of rain in the summer. Orlando usually gets more rain in July than Asheville. Orlando gets 8.3 inches (211 mm) of rain, while Asheville receives 5.4 inches (137 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Orlando or Asheville in the Autumn?

Both Asheville and Orlando are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The autumn months attract visitors to Orlando because of the shopping scene. Also, 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 October, Orlando is generally a little warmer than Asheville. Daily temperatures in Orlando average around 75°F (24°C), and Asheville fluctuates around 64°F (18°C).

It's quite rainy in Orlando. In October, Orlando usually receives more rain than Asheville. Orlando gets 4.1 inches (103 mm) of rain, while Asheville receives 3.4 inches (86 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Orlando or Asheville in the Winter?

Both Asheville and Orlando during the winter are popular places to visit. The Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine are the main draw to Orlando this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Asheville for the Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Orlando is much warmer than Asheville in the winter. The daily temperature in Orlando averages around 59°F (15°C) in January, and Asheville fluctuates around 44°F (7°C).

Asheville gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Orlando usually gets less rain in January than Asheville. Orlando gets 2.3 inches (58 mm) of rain, while Asheville receives 3.9 inches (100 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Orlando or Asheville in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Orlando and Asheville. Also, many visitors come to Asheville in the spring for the natural beauty.

In the spring, Orlando is a little warmer than Asheville. Typically, the spring temperatures in Orlando in April average around 72°F (22°C), and Asheville averages at about 64°F (18°C).

Asheville receives a lot of rain in the spring. In April, Orlando usually receives less rain than Asheville. Orlando gets 2.7 inches (69 mm) of rain, while Asheville receives 4.4 inches (112 mm) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Asheville and Orlando