A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Saint Simons vs. Roanoke for Food, Hiking, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Saint Simons or Roanoke?

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

Should I visit Saint Simons or Roanoke? 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.

Saint Simons

Saint Simons is a scenic, relaxing, and laid back island. With plenty of activities and sights, this is a small town worth visiting. It offers plenty of beauty for visitors. It's also popular because of the shopping, food, and beaches.

Roanoke

Roanoke is a outdoorsy, laid back, and scenic town. It's also known for shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Saint Simons and Roanoke: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Saint Simons or Roanoke?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Saint Simons than Roanoke, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Saint Simons is better known for its food, resorts, beaches, shopping, small town charm, and impressive beauty, while Roanoke is more popular for its museums, nightlife, and hiking. Saint Simons is more touristy than Roanoke and is popular for its beaches, charter fishing, and golf courses. Also, Saint Simons is famous for East Beach. Roanoke is well known for its welcoming hospitality and convenient access to the Blue Ridge Mountains.

How is Saint Simons different from Roanoke?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Saint Simons or Roanoke?

Roanoke is a popular place for its museums and landmarks. However, Saint Simons is a island with minimal options for its historical sights.

Roanoke is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. There are several museums and sights around town such as the Living-Coral Reef Aquarium, the Science Museum of Western Virginia, and the Taubman Museum of Art. There's also the Harrison Museum of African American Culture and even the Roanoke Pinball Museum.

While most people don't head to Saint Simons specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. St. Simons Lighthouse is a highlight for many visitors. There's a maritime museum attached to the lighthouse as well. Fort Frederica National Monument is another historic site that is worth a visit.

Is the Food Better in Saint Simons or Roanoke? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Saint Simons is a great island for its local flavors and cuisine. However, Roanoke is not known for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Saint Simons has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. There are more than 70 restaurants on the island that range from cafes to fine dining. You can enjoy an eggs benedict for brunch, crab cakes for lunch, and shrimp and grits for dinner. Many restaurants take advantage of the mild climate by offering outdoor seating. There are also several dessert places with ice cream or donuts.

Roanoke offers some easy restaurants to choose from. There are burger joints, pizza restaurants, and plenty of other casual eateries where you can grab a quick meal.

Is Saint Simons or Roanoke Better for Nightlife?

Roanoke is a popular place for nightlife. However, Saint Simons is a island with minimal options for nightlife and partying.

Roanoke has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. There are local venues in the area that have drinks and often live music. You'll find jazz, country, rock, and bluegrass, particularly along Crooked Road in Franklin County.

Saint Simons doesn't have the most active nightlife scene. There are several family-friendly bars with laid back atmospheres around town, but if you're looking for a wild night out, there aren't a lot of places to go.

Is Saint Simons or Roanoke Better for Resorts?

Saint Simons is a popular place for its luxury resorts. However, Roanoke is not a resort destination.

Saint Simons has a few great resort options. There are a handful of nice resorts with pools and beachfront settings.

Roanoke is not a resort destination.

Is Saint Simons or Roanoke Better for Beaches?

Saint Simons is a great island for the beach. However, Roanoke is not a beach destination.

Saint Simons is considered a top beach destination. There's golden sand and a beautiful setting. Visitors enjoy swimming or walking along the coastline. You'll also find piers and playgrounds. East Beach is one of the most popular.

Roanoke is not a beach destination.

Is Saint Simons or Roanoke Better for Hiking?

Roanoke is a great destination for its hiking experiences. Also, Saint Simons is still popular, but not quite as popular for hiking.

You'll find a nice variety of hiking trails around Roanoke. The surrounding countryside is filled with mountain hikes. The Blue Ridge Mountains are crossed by trails that take you to waterfalls, scenic viewpoints, and through serene forest. McAfee Knob, Sharp Top Mountain, and Roaring Run Trail some of the best hikes in the area.

Many people include a hike when visiting Saint Simons. There are several parks and natural areas where you can enjoy a walk in nature. Cannon's Point Preserve has a nice trail system. Other trails on the island include John Gilbert Nature Trail, Earth Day Nature Trail, and Wanderer Memorial Trail.

Is the Shopping Better in Saint Simons or Roanoke?

Saint Simons is a great island for its shopping areas. Also, Roanoke is not as popular, but is still a nice town for shopping.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in Saint Simons. You'll find a good concentration of gift shops and clothing boutiques on the island. Antiquing is also popular. Head to Pier Village for a nice mix of shops.

Roanoke is a great destination for shopping. Market Street in Downtown Roanoke is lined with local vendors, particularly at the Historic Roanoke City Market. The town also has a mall and several shopping centers.

Is Saint Simons or Roanoke Better for Families?

Saint Simons is a great island for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Roanoke is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its family-friendly activities.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Saint Simons. The beaches are kid-friendly and there are many family-friendly restaurants in town. There's also the St. Simons Lighthouse, minigolf, and kayaking, as well as Neptune Park Fun Zone.

Roanoke is a family-friendly place to visit. The Blue Ridge Parkway is filled with kid-friendly hiking trails and fun outdoor activities. You can visit the Blue Ridge Institute & Farm Museum or Smith Mountain Lake Farm. There's also Virginia Children's Theater.

Is Saint Simons or Roanoke Better for Couples?

With fun activities for couples, both Saint Simons and Roanoke make for a high quality place to visit.

Couples visit Saint Simons frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. There are romantic restaurants, beautiful beaches, and nice hotels. Sunset walks on the beach or a round of golf all make this a favorite couple's destination.

Roanoke is a great island if you're traveling as a couple. Staying at a quaint bed and breakfast, tucked into the beautiful mountain setting is the perfect romantic getaway. Nearby there are vineyards and wine cellars, as well as gardens, hikes, and other outdoor activities.

Is Saint Simons or Roanoke Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Roanoke is a popular place for backpackers. However, Saint Simons is a island with minimal options for backpackers and budget travelers.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Roanoke. There are several campgrounds in the area as well as great hiking trails.

Saint Simons is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. There are campgrounds in the area that offer access to the island.

Is Saint Simons or Roanoke Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Roanoke is a town with a few options for its public transit. However, Saint Simons is a island with minimal options for times when you don't have a car.

Public transit is generally limited in Roanoke. There are buses as well as a free trolley service through the downtown, but you really do need a car to get most places.

Public transit is quite limited in Saint Simons. While there are trolley tours available, public transportation is basically non-existent.

Is Saint Simons or Roanoke a more walkable city?

Saint Simons is a popular place for its ease of walking around. However, Roanoke is not known for its walkability.

Saint Simons is a somewhat walkable island. The downtown area is walkable, but to access much of what is available, you'll want to have a car.

Roanoke is generally not very walkable. The downtown area is the most walkable part of town, with sidewalks and more dense development styles.

For even more information, also check out Is Saint Simons Worth Visiting? and Is Roanoke Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Roanoke or Saint Simons?

How long in Saint Simons or Roanoke?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Saint Simons and Roanoke. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Saint Simons than in Roanoke. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Saint Simons, and 1-3 days is enough time in Roanoke.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Roanoke than Saint Simons 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 Roanoke.

One day in Saint Simons or Roanoke?

Saint Simons is a small town with plenty to do. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. This island offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

In Roanoke, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this outdoorsy town offers. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. In one day, you should have a good grasp of this town.

A weekend in Saint Simons or Roanoke?

Saint Simons 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. Most people come for the beaches. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Saint Simons has to offer.

Roanoke is a fun place to experience. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. So, a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

Five days in Saint Simons or Roanoke?

Saint Simons is a great place to explore. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the 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.

You'll find nightlife and shopping around the scenic destination of Roanoke. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days.

A week in Saint Simons or Roanoke?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Saint Simons. Since Saint Simons is a small town, it's easily explored when your time is limited. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

Roanoke is a popular place to visit. 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. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Family-Friendly Tours to United States of America, The Best Wildlife Tours to United States of America, The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in United States of America, and The Best Historical Tours in United States of America.

When comparing the travel costs between Saint Simons and Roanoke, we can see that Saint Simons is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Since both cities are in North America, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

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

Which is Bigger, Saint Simons or Roanoke?

Roanoke has a larger population, and is about 7 times larger than the population of Saint Simons. When comparing the sizes of Saint Simons and Roanoke, 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 Saint Simons or Roanoke?

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 Saint Simons or Roanoke in the Summer?

Both Roanoke and Saint Simons during the summer are popular places to visit. The summer months attract visitors to Saint Simons because of the beaches, the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, the hiking and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Roanoke this time of year.

In July, Saint Simons is generally around the same temperature as Roanoke. Daily temperatures in Saint Simons average around 82°F (28°C), and Roanoke fluctuates around 79°F (26°C).

In Roanoke, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Saint Simons. In the summer, Saint Simons often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Roanoke. Saint Simons gets 286 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Roanoke receives 273 hours of full sun.

Roanoke gets a good bit of rain this time of year. It rains a lot this time of the year in Saint Simons. Saint Simons usually gets more rain in July than Roanoke. Saint Simons gets 5.4 inches (137 mm) of rain, while Roanoke receives 4.2 inches (106 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Saint Simons or Roanoke in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Saint Simons and Roanoke. The hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Saint Simons this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Roanoke for the hiking trails and the shopping scene.

Saint Simons is a little warmer than Roanoke in the autumn. The daily temperature in Saint Simons averages around 70°F (21°C) in October, and Roanoke fluctuates around 60°F (16°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Roanoke this time of the year. In Saint Simons, it's very sunny this time of the year. Saint Simons usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Roanoke during autumn. Saint Simons gets 214 hours of sunny skies, while Roanoke receives 210 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Saint Simons usually receives less rain than Roanoke. Saint Simons gets 2.9 inches (73 mm) of rain, while Roanoke receives 3.7 inches (94 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Saint Simons or Roanoke in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Saint Simons as well as Roanoke. Many travelers come to Saint Simons for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Roanoke in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Roanoke can get quite cold in the winter. In the winter, Saint Simons is much warmer than Roanoke. Typically, the winter temperatures in Saint Simons in January average around 53°F (12°C), and Roanoke averages at about 38°F (3°C).

In the winter, Saint Simons often gets more sunshine than Roanoke. Saint Simons gets 191 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Roanoke receives 165 hours of full sun.

Saint Simons usually gets more rain in January than Roanoke. Saint Simons gets 3.3 inches (83 mm) of rain, while Roanoke receives 2.9 inches (73 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Saint Simons or Roanoke in the Spring?

Both Roanoke and Saint Simons are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Saint Simons in the spring for the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty.

In April, Saint Simons is generally a little warmer than Roanoke. Daily temperatures in Saint Simons average around 68°F (20°C), and Roanoke fluctuates around 59°F (15°C).

It's quite sunny in Roanoke. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Saint Simons. Saint Simons usually receives more sunshine than Roanoke during spring. Saint Simons gets 285 hours of sunny skies, while Roanoke receives 246 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Saint Simons usually receives less rain than Roanoke. Saint Simons gets 2.8 inches (72 mm) of rain, while Roanoke receives 3.1 inches (79 mm) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Roanoke and Saint Simons