Deck or Stone patio?

We need to do something with our backyard. Our deck is about to fall down so we have to rip it out anyways. Option 1 would be to just replace the deck. Option 2 would be to build a stone patio with planters and seating, etc. We think the cost would be pretty much the same, but you don't have as much up keep with a patio as a deck since you have to stain a deck every 3 years or so. So, we need help deciding. What do you think? Deck or patio?