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

Should you visit Atlanta or Memphis?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Atlanta or Memphis, this travel comparison, which includes costs, can help. The overall cost of travel is usually a consideration when deciding where to go next, and the cost comparison down below can help you decide based on the average prices from other travelers along with your own travel budget.

Atlanta

Atlanta is a diverse, sprawling, and suburban city. As it's a big city, visitors will find plenty to do, too. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food.

Memphis

Memphis is a laid-back, soulful, and creative city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and live music.

Atlanta and Memphis: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Atlanta or Memphis?

Visitors will generally find more to do in Atlanta than Memphis. While Memphis is larger than Atlanta, Atlanta has more sights, attractions, and activities for tourists. Atlanta is very popular for its museums, food, shopping, and big city activities, while Memphis attracts visitors for its music. Atlanta is more touristy than Memphis and is known for its world class aquarium, its role as host of the 1996 Olympic Games, and its influence during the Civil Rights Movement. It is also well known for the Georgia Aquarium. Memphis is famous for its influential music scene and its southern barbecue.

How is Atlanta different from Memphis?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Atlanta or Memphis?

Atlanta is a world-class destination for its historical sights. Also, Memphis is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its sights and museums.

With plenty of landmarks, attractions, and museums, Atlanta has many famous sights for visitors. The museums range in topic from history to science and art. The country's largest aquarium, the Georgia Aquarium, is in Atlanta as well. It's home to whale sharks, stingrays, and a diversity of marine life. Other museums around town include the Atlanta History Center, the Fernbank Museum of Natural History, the High Museum of Art, the World of Coca Cola, the David J. Sencer CDC Museum, and the Delta Flight Museum. There are also many monuments and sites including the Martin Luther King Jr. National Historic Site.

Memphis is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. Many attractions in town are related to the city's history in music. There is the famed Graceland as well as the Rock 'n' Soul Museum, the Blues Hall of Fame and Stax Museum of American Soul Music. The city also has several art museums that are worth checking out.

Is the Food Better in Atlanta or Memphis? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Atlanta is a great city for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Memphis is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Atlanta has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. It's a huge city with a wide selection of restaurants including international, local, and classic southern styles. Fried chicken, biscuits, diner food, and barbecue are all popular. For a classic southern breakfast check out The OK Cafe and for a quintessential Atlanta experience go to The Varsity.

Memphis offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. The town has grown into a foodie destination with excellent barbecue and ribs. There are many award winning barbecue joints, but you'll also find casual bars that serve nachos, pizza, and other quick bites.

Is Atlanta or Memphis Better for Nightlife?

If the nightlife is your priority, you'll find superb options in both Atlanta and Memphis.

The nightlife in Atlanta has something for everybody. The nightlife scene is diverse with trendy bars, dance clubs, and huge music halls. There are a number of neighborhoods that each have their own atmosphere. For some of the best nightlife check out the upscale bars in Buckhead, the music venues in Midtown, the hipster vibe in Edgewood, or the laid-back atmosphere in Virginia Highland.

Memphis offers plenty to do in the evening. Music is at the heart of the nightlife scene. Head to Beale Street in Memphis's downtown for the most active nightlife that usually stays open the latest. You'll also find a lot of bars and clubs in Midtown around Overton Square.

Is Atlanta or Memphis Better for Music?

Memphis is terrific for its music scene. However, Atlanta is not a live music destination.

Memphis has become a mecca for musicians from around the world. There are plenty of live music venues in the downtown area that you can explore. Several of the most famous include B.B. King's Blues Club, Handy Park Pavilion, and Blues City Cafe. The city is known for its influential role in several music genres including the blues, soul, and rock 'n' roll. There are also many music related museums and attractions in town like Graceland, the Rock 'n' Soul Museum, the Blues Hall of Fame and Stax Museum of American Soul Music.

Atlanta is not a live music destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Atlanta or Memphis?

Atlanta is a world-class destination for its shopping areas. However, Memphis is not known for shopping.

Many people travel to Atlanta specifically to go shopping. There are a number of great shopping districts around town. Atlantic Station is popular with a movie theater and ice skating. Buckhead has boutique and local vendors and Lenox Square has a large shopping mall.

Memphis is a good destination for shopping. The city has plenty of malls and chain stores where you can grab anything you might need.

Is Atlanta or Memphis Better for Families?

Atlanta is a great city for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Memphis is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its family-friendly activities.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Atlanta. There is no shortage of playgrounds around town, but a highlight of any trip is a visit to the Georgia Aquarium. It's the largest aquarium in the United States and its home to whale sharks, hammerheads, dolphin shows, and more. It is so much more than just an aquarium, and it truly is a not to be missed experience. Also worth a visit are Zoo Atlanta, the Center of Puppetry Arts, Stone Mountain, Fernbank Museum of Natural History, and the Lego Discovery Center. If you have the chance to see the Atlanta Braves play, that's also a rewarding experience.

Memphis is a family-friendly place to visit. The town has some great activities for kids including a zoo, several museums, petting farms, and a botanical garden.

Is Atlanta or Memphis Better for Couples?

Atlanta and Memphis are both nice to visit as a couple.

Atlanta is a good city for couples to visit. It's a big city, so there are a number of date night activities available such as orchestra concerts, theater shows, and fine dining. The city also has many outdoor areas like Lake Lanier and Piedmont Park. The Georgia Aquarium is world class, and there are other amazing museums around town as well.

Memphis is a nice destination for couples. Couples who enjoy good music and southern food will enjoy a weekend here. There are many music related landmarks including Graceland and the Rock 'n' Soul Museum. Live music is very popular as well.

Is Atlanta or Memphis Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Atlanta is a nice place to visit for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Memphis is not known for backpackers.

It's common for backpackers to visit Atlanta. While it's usually overlooked by backpackers, there are actually a couple of hostels around town and a surprising number of activities worth experiencing. The city's large airport make it a convenient entry point for international travelers.

Memphis is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. There are a couple of hostels and plenty of live music that make this a popular stop off for young travelers.

Is Atlanta or Memphis Better for Students?

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

Atlanta is a great city to visit as a student. There are a number of universities in town such as Emory, Georgia Institute of Technology, Georgia State University, and Morehouse College. The city is sprawling, but it's also full of entertainment and activities that students will enjoy.

Memphis is a good city to visit for students. The live music scene and great food options make this is a fun town for students.

Is Atlanta or Memphis Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Atlanta and Memphis both offer reasonable public transit to get you around.

Public transit is mostly limited in Atlanta. For such a large city, the public transportation system is very limited. MARTA is the main transit authority and there are a few subway lines that cross the city as well as bus routes running around town.

Public transit is generally limited in Memphis. There is a trolley and bus system that the city operates, but a car is really helpful for getting around.

Is Atlanta or Memphis a more walkable city?

Atlanta and Memphis are nice when it comes to walkability.

Atlanta is a somewhat walkable city. Parts of the city are walkable, but most of the sights are spread out and require a car to access. Within neighborhoods, there are a few places that are more pedestrian-friendly such as Downtown, Midtown, Virginia Highlands, and Buckhead.

Memphis is somewhat walkable. Most of the touristy parts of town are walkable, but if you want to explore further out you'll need a car.

For even more information, also check out Is Atlanta Worth Visiting? and Is Memphis Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Memphis or Atlanta?

How long in Atlanta or Memphis?

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

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Atlanta than Memphis 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 Atlanta.

One day in Atlanta or Memphis?

Because Atlanta is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. This city offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

In Memphis, you'll find nightlife and live music. One reason most visitors come is for the live music. This city offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

A weekend in Atlanta or Memphis?

Because Atlanta is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. 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 Atlanta has to offer.

In Memphis, you'll find live music and food. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. One reason most visitors come is for the live music. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Memphis has to offer.

Five days in Atlanta or Memphis?

Atlanta 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.

Memphis 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 Atlanta or Memphis?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Atlanta. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Atlanta. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Memphis. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Memphis. One reason most visitors come is for the live music. 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 Historical Tours in United States of America, The Best 10-Day Tours in United States of America, The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in United States of America, and The Best 2-Week Tours in United States of America.

When comparing the travel costs between Atlanta and Memphis, we can see that Atlanta 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 Atlanta Expensive? and Is Memphis Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Atlanta or Memphis?

Memphis has a larger population, and is about 54% larger than the population of Atlanta. When comparing the sizes of Atlanta and Memphis, 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 Atlanta or Memphis?

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 Atlanta or Memphis in the Summer?

Both Memphis and Atlanta are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The summer months attract visitors to Atlanta because of the city activities and the family-friendly experiences. Also, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Memphis this time of year.

Atlanta is around the same temperature as Memphis in the summer. The daily temperature in Atlanta averages around 82°F (28°C) in July, and Memphis fluctuates around 83°F (29°C).

It's quite sunny in Memphis. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Atlanta. Atlanta usually receives less sunshine than Memphis during summer. Atlanta gets 271 hours of sunny skies, while Memphis receives 328 hours of full sun in the summer.

It's quite rainy in Atlanta. In July, Atlanta usually receives more rain than Memphis. Atlanta gets 5.2 inches (133 mm) of rain, while Memphis receives 2.9 inches (73 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Atlanta or Memphis in the Autumn?

Both Memphis and Atlanta during the autumn are popular places to visit. The city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene are the main draw to Atlanta this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Memphis for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the music scene.

In the autumn, Atlanta is around the same temperature as Memphis. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Atlanta in October average around 66°F (19°C), and Memphis averages at about 64°F (18°C).

In Memphis, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Atlanta. In the autumn, Atlanta often gets less sunshine than Memphis. Atlanta gets 222 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Memphis receives 240 hours of full sun.

Atlanta usually gets more rain in October than Memphis. Atlanta gets 3 inches (77 mm) of rain, while Memphis receives 1.6 inches (41 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Atlanta or Memphis in the Winter?

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

Memphis can get quite cold in the winter. In January, Atlanta is generally much warmer than Memphis. Daily temperatures in Atlanta average around 45°F (7°C), and Memphis fluctuates around 40°F (5°C).

Atlanta usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Memphis during winter. Atlanta gets 164 hours of sunny skies, while Memphis receives 163 hours of full sun in the winter.

Atlanta gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In January, Atlanta usually receives more rain than Memphis. Atlanta gets 4.7 inches (120 mm) of rain, while Memphis receives 2.4 inches (62 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Atlanta or Memphis in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Atlanta as well as Memphis. Many visitors come to Atlanta in the spring for the activities around the city. Also, most visitors come to Memphis for the activities around the city during these months.

Atlanta is around the same temperature as Memphis in the spring. The daily temperature in Atlanta averages around 65°F (18°C) in April, and Memphis fluctuates around 64°F (18°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Memphis. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Atlanta this time of the year. In the spring, Atlanta often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Memphis. Atlanta gets 262 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Memphis receives 254 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Memphis. Atlanta receives a lot of rain in the spring. Atlanta usually gets around the same amount of rain in April as Memphis. Atlanta gets 4.1 inches (104 mm) of rain, while Memphis receives 4.3 inches (109 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Memphis and Atlanta