A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Raleigh vs. Beaufort for Food, Couples, Attractions, and Nightlife

Should you visit Raleigh or Beaufort?

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

Should I visit Raleigh or Beaufort? 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.

Raleigh

Raleigh is a suburban-style, friendly, and southern city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. It's also known for nightlife, food, and museums.

Beaufort

Beaufort is a character-filled, southern, and charming town. As this is a charming small town, visitors also come to explore the sights and local activities. It offers plenty of beauty for visitors. With a quaint atmosphere, it also offers a unique feeling. Other popular activities here include shopping, museums, and food.

Raleigh and Beaufort: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Raleigh or Beaufort?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Beaufort than Raleigh, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Beaufort is better known for its food, beaches, historical sights, shopping, small town charm, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere, while Raleigh is more popular for its nightlife and big city activities. Beaufort is more touristy than Raleigh and is known for its Lowcountry cuisine and historic homes. Also, Beaufort is famous for Henry C. Chambers Waterfront Park. Raleigh is well known for its many museums and being the home to North Carolina State University.

How is Raleigh different from Beaufort?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Raleigh or Beaufort?

For an educational experience, head to a museum or a notable sight in either Raleigh or Beaufort.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Raleigh. As the state capital, there are a number of free museums in the area. There are also some kid-friendly options and other activities that are affiliated with the colleges and universities. Popular options include the NC Museum of Natural Sciences (free), the NC Museum of History (free), the NC Museum of Art (free), and Marbles Kids Museum.

Beaufort is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. The town's museums highlight the region's past. There are four popular museums that you can visit - the Beaufort History Museum, Parris Island Museum, Verdier House Museum, and York W. Bailey Museum.

Is the Food Better in Raleigh or Beaufort? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

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

Dining out in Beaufort is an experience not to be missed. Soak up the charming atmosphere by dining at one of the local restaurants. Many serve Lowcountry cuisine which includes She-crab soup, fried green tomatoes, shrimp burgers, and barbecue.

There are plenty of up and coming restaurants around Raleigh. In addition to the standard chain restaurants, you'll find a number of local eateries with great southern dishes. Try some southern classics like barbecue, pimento cheese, and fried chicken and waffles. There are also good international options including Nepalese, Laotian, and Ethiopian flavors.

Is Raleigh or Beaufort Better for Nightlife?

Raleigh is a nice place to visit for nightlife. However, Beaufort is a mediocre town for nightlife and partying.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Raleigh. Head to downtown Raleigh or the areas around NC State University for some of the best nightlife. Trivia nights and happy hours are popular and you'll find breweries popping up in many places.

Those looking for nightlife will find a few places to hang out in Beaufort. You'll find bars, grills, and taverns in town, but most people don't visit for the nightlife scene.

Is Raleigh or Beaufort Better for Beaches?

Beaufort is a popular place for the beach. However, Raleigh is not a beach destination.

Beaufort is a good option for a beach vacation. The town has a nice waterfront, but you have to head about half an hour out of town for a real beach. One of the best options is Hunting Island State Park.

Raleigh is not a beach destination.

Is Raleigh or Beaufort Better for its Old Town?

Beaufort is well known for its historic old town charm. However, Raleigh does not have a historic old town.

Many visitors explore the old town while visiting Beaufort. Historic homes, some that were built before the Civil War, offer a glimpse into the past. Beaufort is the second oldest town in South Carolina and it holds on to much of its charm and character.

Raleigh does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Raleigh or Beaufort?

Beaufort is a popular place for its shopping areas. However, Raleigh is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Many visitors go to Beaufort to go shopping. Head downtown for some souvenir shopping or to check out the art galleries or fashion boutiques.

Raleigh is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Raleigh or Beaufort Better for Families?

Raleigh is a nice place to visit for its family-friendly activities. However, Beaufort is a mediocre town for its kid-friendly activities.

Raleigh is a family-friendly place to visit. For such a small city, Raleigh has a number of unique kid-friendly activities like the popular Pullen Park and Marbles Kids' Museum. Pullen Park has small rides and a playground that are perfect for young kids. There's also the NC Museum of Natural History which is free and fun to explore with kids.

Beaufort is not always a place people visit with their families. There are parks and outdoor activities in the area, but one of the best options is to head out of town to the beach.

Is Raleigh or Beaufort Better for Couples?

Beaufort is well known for couples. However, Raleigh is not particularly known for romance.

Couples visit Beaufort frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. There are many charming and romantic spots around town as well as historic inns where you can stay. Couples will enjoy the waterfront area or exploring one of the nature parks that are nearby. There are also quaint local restaurants that make for a nice date night.

Raleigh is not the best destination for a couple to visit. While it's often overlooked by couples who want a weekend away, there are a number of museums and some nice restaurants to explore.

Is Raleigh or Beaufort Better for Students?

Raleigh is notable for students. However, Beaufort is not popular with students.

Raleigh is a great city to visit as a student. The city has a diverse student population with many nearby universities and colleges.

Beaufort is not popular with students.

Is Raleigh or Beaufort Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Neither Raleigh or Beaufort offer decent public transit.

Public transit is limited or non-existant in Raleigh. The city's public transportation options are limited to a few bus lines that are mostly used by students.

Public transit is quite limited in Beaufort. There is no reliable public transportation system in the area.

Is Raleigh or Beaufort a more walkable city?

Beaufort is well known for its ease of walking around. However, Raleigh is not particularly known for its walkability.

Beaufort is a very walkable destination. The quaint downtown is walkable and offers easy access to art galleries, restaurants, and shops.

Raleigh is generally not a very walkable city. The city is somewhat walkable in the downtown area, but everywhere else you'll need a car.

For even more information, also check out Is Raleigh Worth Visiting? and Is Beaufort Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Beaufort or Raleigh?

How long in Raleigh or Beaufort?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Raleigh and Beaufort. In our opinion, Beaufort has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Beaufort than Raleigh. In general, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Raleigh, and 1-3 days is enough time in Beaufort.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Beaufort than Raleigh 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 Beaufort.

One day in Raleigh or Beaufort?

The city of Raleigh offers nightlife and food. 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.

Beaufort is a small town with plenty to do. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. This town offers something for everyone. This would be the perfect place to spend one day, as it has just the right amount of activities.

A weekend in Raleigh or Beaufort?

Raleigh is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this city makes for a great vacation. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Raleigh, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Beaufort might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Visiting the old town is also a must. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Beaufort has to offer.

Five days in Raleigh or Beaufort?

Raleigh 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.

Beaufort is a great place to explore. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. 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 Raleigh or Beaufort?

Raleigh is a great place to explore. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This city offers something for everyone.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Beaufort. Since Beaufort is a small town, it's easily explored when your time is limited. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. 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 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 Raleigh and Beaufort, we can see that Raleigh is more expensive. And not only is Beaufort much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Beaufort would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Beaufort 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 Raleigh would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Raleigh than you might in Beaufort.

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

Which is Bigger, Raleigh or Beaufort?

Raleigh has a larger population, and is about 20 times larger than the population of Beaufort. When comparing the sizes of Raleigh and Beaufort, 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 Raleigh or Beaufort?

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 Raleigh or Beaufort in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Raleigh and Beaufort. Many travelers come to Raleigh for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Beaufort in the summer for the beaches, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Raleigh is around the same temperature as Beaufort. Typically, the summer temperatures in Raleigh in July average around 79°F (26°C), and Beaufort averages at about 82°F (28°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Beaufort this time of the year. In Raleigh, it's very sunny this time of the year. Raleigh usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Beaufort during summer. Raleigh gets 259 hours of sunny skies, while Beaufort receives 267 hours of full sun in the summer.

Beaufort receives a lot of rain in the summer. Raleigh gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In July, Raleigh usually receives less rain than Beaufort. Raleigh gets 5.1 inches (129 mm) of rain, while Beaufort receives 7.9 inches (200 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Raleigh or Beaufort in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Raleigh as well as Beaufort. Many visitors come to Raleigh in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions. Also, most visitors come to Beaufort for the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

In October, Raleigh is generally cooler than Beaufort. Daily temperatures in Raleigh average around 61°F (16°C), and Beaufort fluctuates around 68°F (20°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Beaufort. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Raleigh this time of the year. In the autumn, Raleigh often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Beaufort. Raleigh gets 211 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Beaufort receives 223 hours of full sun.

Raleigh usually gets around the same amount of rain in October as Beaufort. Raleigh gets 2.8 inches (71 mm) of rain, while Beaufort receives 2.8 inches (71 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Raleigh or Beaufort in the Winter?

Both Beaufort and Raleigh are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Raleigh for the museums and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Beaufort because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Raleigh can be very cold during winter. Raleigh is much colder than Beaufort in the winter. The daily temperature in Raleigh averages around 40°F (5°C) in January, and Beaufort fluctuates around 48°F (9°C).

Raleigh usually receives less sunshine than Beaufort during winter. Raleigh gets 162 hours of sunny skies, while Beaufort receives 176 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Raleigh usually receives more rain than Beaufort. Raleigh gets 3.2 inches (82 mm) of rain, while Beaufort receives 2.9 inches (74 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Raleigh or Beaufort in the Spring?

Both Beaufort and Raleigh during the spring are popular places to visit. The spring months attract visitors to Raleigh because of the activities around the city. Furthermore, the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty are the main draw to Beaufort this time of year.

In the spring, Raleigh is cooler than Beaufort. Typically, the spring temperatures in Raleigh in April average around 60°F (16°C), and Beaufort averages at about 67°F (19°C).

In Beaufort, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Raleigh. In the spring, Raleigh often gets less sunshine than Beaufort. Raleigh gets 251 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Beaufort receives 275 hours of full sun.

Raleigh usually gets around the same amount of rain in April as Beaufort. Raleigh gets 3.1 inches (78 mm) of rain, while Beaufort receives 2.9 inches (74 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Beaufort and Raleigh