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

Should you visit Raleigh or Lewisburg?

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

Should I visit Raleigh or Lewisburg? 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 southern, student-friendly, and suburban-style city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. It's also known for nightlife, food, and museums.

Lewisburg

Lewisburg is a historical, quaint, and charming town. Don't miss this spot, as it's a charming small town with plenty of activities. Other popular activities here include shopping and museums.

Raleigh and Lewisburg: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with couples
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Scenic old town
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less popular with couples


Is there more to do in Raleigh or Lewisburg?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Raleigh than Lewisburg, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Raleigh is better known for its food, nightlife, and big city activities, while Lewisburg is more popular for its historical sights, shopping, and small town charm. Raleigh is well known for its many museums and being the home to North Carolina State University. Also, Raleigh is famous for North Carolina State University. Lewisburg is well known for its historical charm and friendly personality.

How is Raleigh different from Lewisburg?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Lewisburg 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 Lewisburg?

Raleigh
Lewisburg

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

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.

Lewisburg is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. There are several cultural and historical museums in town as well as a fun children's museum.


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

Raleigh
Lewisburg

Raleigh is a popular place for its restaurant scene. However, Lewisburg is not particularly known for its local flavors and cuisine.

Raleigh offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. 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.

You'll find the standard options when it comes to food in Lewisburg. There are bistros and cafes as well as all the standard chain restaurants.

Is Raleigh or Lewisburg Better for Nightlife?

Raleigh
Lewisburg

Raleigh is a popular place for nightlife. However, Lewisburg is not particularly known for nightlife and partying.

Raleigh has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. 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.

Lewisburg doesn't have the most active nightlife scene. While there are some bars, most people don't come here for the nightlife.

Is Raleigh or Lewisburg Better for its Old Town?

Raleigh
Lewisburg

Lewisburg is a popular place for its historic old town charm. However, Raleigh does not have a historic old town.

Lewisburg offers a nice historic old town area. There are a huge number of historical buildings in the downtown area that contribute to the town's charm and character.

Raleigh does not have a historic old town.


Is the Shopping Better in Raleigh or Lewisburg?

Raleigh
Lewisburg

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

Many visitors go to Lewisburg to go shopping. There are some quaint local shops that sell local items and unique art works.

Raleigh is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Raleigh or Lewisburg Better for Families?

Raleigh
Lewisburg

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Raleigh or Lewisburg.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Raleigh. 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.

Lewisburg offers lots of family activities. The Lewisburg Children's Museum is worth checking out, as is Reptiland and the many different indoor and outdoor play areas.

Is Raleigh or Lewisburg Better for Couples?

Raleigh
Lewisburg

Most people don't think of either Raleigh or Lewisburg as a couple's destination.

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

Lewisburg is not the best destination for a couple to visit. There are several quaint inns and beautiful gardens that you can explore. There are also spas and restaurants where you can enjoy a nice meal.


Is Raleigh or Lewisburg Better for Students?

Raleigh
Lewisburg

Raleigh is well known for students. Also, Lewisburg is still popular, but not quite as popular for its student-friendly activities.

Raleigh is a very popular city for students and younger travelers. The city has a diverse student population with many nearby universities and colleges.

It's common for students to visit Lewisburg. Many students enjoy living here while they attend Bucknell University.

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

Raleigh
Lewisburg

Lewisburg is a town with a few options for its public transit. However, Raleigh is not particularly known for times when you don't have a car.

Public transit is generally limited in Lewisburg. Public transportation in the area is limited.

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

Is Raleigh or Lewisburg a more walkable city?

Raleigh
Lewisburg

Lewisburg is a popular place for its ease of walking around. However, Raleigh is not particularly known for its walkability.

Lewisburg is a somewhat walkable town. It's small with a relatively compact downtown.

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 Lewisburg Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Lewisburg or Raleigh?

How long in Raleigh or Lewisburg?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Raleigh or Lewisburg to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Raleigh than Lewisburg because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Raleigh, and 1-2 days is enough time in Lewisburg.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Lewisburg 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 Lewisburg.


  • How many days in Raleigh or Lewisburg? Ideal Length of Stay
    Raleigh 2-3 
    Lewisburg 1-2

One day in Raleigh or Lewisburg?

You'll find food and museums around the city of Raleigh. 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 Lewisburg, you'll find shopping and museums. 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 Lewisburg?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the student-friendly destination of Raleigh. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

In Lewisburg, you'll find museums and shopping. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Lewisburg has to offer.

Five days in Raleigh or Lewisburg?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the southern city of Raleigh. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Lewisburg is a great place to explore. 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 Lewisburg?

Raleigh is a popular choice for travelers. 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 Lewisburg. Many people enjoy the museums and shopping when visiting Lewisburg. 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.


Which place is cheaper, Lewisburg or Raleigh?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Raleigh is $189, while the average daily cost in Lewisburg is $136. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Raleigh and Lewisburg in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Raleigh $104
    Lewisburg $70
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Raleigh $208
    Lewisburg $140
Compare Hotels in Raleigh and Lewisburg

Looking for a hotel in Raleigh or Lewisburg? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Raleigh


Hotels in Lewisburg


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Raleigh Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Raleigh $37
    Lewisburg $53

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Raleigh

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Raleigh:

  • Durham to Raleigh-Durham Airport (RDU) - Departure Private Transfer: $62
  • Raleigh to Raleigh-Durham Airport (RDU) - Departure Private Transfer: $59
  • Raleigh-Durham Airport (RDU) to Durham - Arrival Private Transfer: $62
  • Raleigh-Durham Airport (RDU) to Durham - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $124
  • Raleigh-Durham Airport (RDU) to Raleigh - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $117
  • Raleigh-Durham Airport (RDU) to Raleigh Arrival Private Transfer: $59

Is it cheaper to fly into Raleigh or Lewisburg?

Prices for flights to both Lewisburg and Raleigh change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    Raleigh $57
    Lewisburg $34
Typical Food Prices in Raleigh

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for food and meal costs in Raleigh:


  • The Pit Authentic BBQ (for 3)
    $84

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Raleigh

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Raleigh.

  • Private Cooking Class in Durham with an Expert Home Cook: $104

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Raleigh $37
    Lewisburg $18

Tours and Activities in Raleigh

Here are a few actual costs in Raleigh for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • Scavenger Hunt Adventure in Durham by Wacky Walks: $10
  • Scavenger Hunt Adventure Self-Guided City Game: $10
  • Murder Mystery Detective Experience Chapel Hill, NC: $15
  • Raleigh Historian-Guided Downtown Walking Tour: $16
  • Guided Walking Historian Tour in Downtown Durham: $16
  • Raleigh Downtown: Historic Walking Tours: $16
  • Raleigh Ghost and Urban Legend Tour: $16
  • Raleigh African American History Tour: $16
  • True Crime History Guided Walking Tour: $16
  • Ghosts and Ghouls Hauntings Walking Tour: $26
  • Raleigh Ghosts and Ghouls Hauntings Tour: $30
  • Raleigh Puzzling Adventure: $35

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Raleigh $27
    Lewisburg $12


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Raleigh and Lewisburg, we can see that Raleigh is more expensive. And not only is Lewisburg much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Lewisburg would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Lewisburg 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 Lewisburg.

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


Which is Bigger, Raleigh or Lewisburg?

Raleigh has a larger population, and is about 50 times larger than the population of Lewisburg. When comparing the sizes of Raleigh and Lewisburg, 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 Lewisburg?

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 Lewisburg in the Summer?

Both Lewisburg and Raleigh are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The summer months attract visitors to Raleigh because of the city activities and the family-friendly experiences. Also, the small town charm and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Lewisburg this time of year.

In the summer, Raleigh is a little warmer than Lewisburg. Typically, the summer temperatures in Raleigh in July average around 79°F (26°C), and Lewisburg averages at about 74°F (24°C).

It's quite sunny in Lewisburg. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Raleigh. Raleigh usually receives less sunshine than Lewisburg during summer. Raleigh gets 259 hours of sunny skies, while Lewisburg receives 310 hours of full sun in the summer.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Lewisburg. It's quite rainy in Raleigh. In July, Raleigh usually receives more rain than Lewisburg. Raleigh gets 5.1 inches (129 mm) of rain, while Lewisburg receives 4 inches (101 mm) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Raleigh 79°F (26°C) 
    Lewisburg 74°F (24°C)

Should I visit Raleigh or Lewisburg in the Autumn?

Both Lewisburg and Raleigh during the autumn are popular places to visit. The city's sights and attractions are the main draw to Raleigh this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Lewisburg for the shopping scene and the small town atmosphere.

In October, Raleigh is generally a little warmer than Lewisburg. Daily temperatures in Raleigh average around 61°F (16°C), and Lewisburg fluctuates around 54°F (12°C).

It's quite sunny in Raleigh. In the autumn, Raleigh often gets more sunshine than Lewisburg. Raleigh gets 211 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Lewisburg receives 194 hours of full sun.

Raleigh usually gets less rain in October than Lewisburg. Raleigh gets 2.8 inches (71 mm) of rain, while Lewisburg receives 3.3 inches (84 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Raleigh 61°F (16°C) 
    Lewisburg 54°F (12°C)

Should I visit Raleigh or Lewisburg in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Raleigh and Lewisburg. Many travelers come to Raleigh for the museums and the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Lewisburg in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Lewisburg can get quite cold in the winter. Be prepared for some very cold days in Raleigh. Raleigh is much warmer than Lewisburg in the winter. The daily temperature in Raleigh averages around 40°F (5°C) in January, and Lewisburg fluctuates around 27°F (-3°C).

Raleigh usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Lewisburg during winter. Raleigh gets 162 hours of sunny skies, while Lewisburg receives 153 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Raleigh usually receives more rain than Lewisburg. Raleigh gets 3.2 inches (82 mm) of rain, while Lewisburg receives 2.5 inches (65 mm) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Raleigh 40°F (5°C) 
    Lewisburg 27°F (-3°C)

Should I visit Raleigh or Lewisburg in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Raleigh as well as Lewisburg. Many visitors come to Raleigh in the spring for the activities around the city. Also, most visitors come to Lewisburg for the small town charm during these months.

In the spring, Raleigh is a little warmer than Lewisburg. Typically, the spring temperatures in Raleigh in April average around 60°F (16°C), and Lewisburg averages at about 51°F (11°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Lewisburg. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Raleigh this time of the year. In the spring, Raleigh often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Lewisburg. Raleigh gets 251 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Lewisburg receives 237 hours of full sun.

Raleigh usually gets around the same amount of rain in April as Lewisburg. Raleigh gets 3.1 inches (78 mm) of rain, while Lewisburg receives 3.2 inches (82 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Raleigh 60°F (16°C) 
    Lewisburg 51°F (11°C)

Typical Weather for Lewisburg and Raleigh

Raleigh Lewisburg
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 40°F (5°C) 3.2 inches (82 mm) 27°F (-3°C) 2.5 inches (65 mm)
Feb 43°F (6°C) 3.3 inches (84 mm) 30°F (-1°C) 2.8 inches (70 mm)
Mar 52°F (11°C) 3.4 inches (87 mm) 40°F (5°C) 3.2 inches (81 mm)
Apr 60°F (16°C) 3.1 inches (78 mm) 51°F (11°C) 3.2 inches (82 mm)
May 68°F (20°C) 3.3 inches (84 mm) 62°F (16°C) 3.9 inches (98 mm)
Jun 76°F (24°C) 3.7 inches (93 mm) 70°F (21°C) 4.3 inches (110 mm)
Jul 79°F (26°C) 5.1 inches (129 mm) 74°F (24°C) 4 inches (101 mm)
Aug 78°F (26°C) 4.9 inches (125 mm) 73°F (23°C) 3.4 inches (86 mm)
Sep 73°F (23°C) 3.8 inches (96 mm) 65°F (19°C) 3.4 inches (86 mm)
Oct 61°F (16°C) 2.8 inches (71 mm) 54°F (12°C) 3.3 inches (84 mm)
Nov 53°F (11°C) 2.8 inches (72 mm) 44°F (7°C) 3.7 inches (95 mm)
Dec 44°F (7°C) 3.1 inches (78 mm) 33°F (1°C) 3 inches (77 mm)