A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Atlanta vs. The Hamptons for Food, Nightlife, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Atlanta or The Hamptons?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Atlanta or The Hamptons, 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 cultural, diverse, and sprawling city. It's a large city with plenty of activites for visitors as well. It's also known for shopping, museums, and nightlife.

The Hamptons

The Hamptons is a lavish, wealthy, and opulent beach destination. It offers plenty of beauty for visitors. It's also popular because of the shopping, nightlife, and food.

Atlanta and The Hamptons: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Big city activities
Pros
  • Active nightlife
  • Nice resorts
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with backpackers


Is there more to do in Atlanta or The Hamptons?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Atlanta than The Hamptons, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Atlanta is better known for its museums, food, nightlife, and big city activities, while The Hamptons is more popular for its resorts, beaches, hiking, and impressive beauty. Atlanta is well known for its world class aquarium, its role as host of the 1996 Olympic Games, and its influence during the Civil Rights Movement. Also, Atlanta is famous for the Georgia Aquarium. The Hamptons is well known for its long sandy beaches, charming seaside communities, opulent villas, and vacationing celebrities.

How is Atlanta different from The Hamptons?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Atlanta
The Hamptons

Atlanta is a world-class destination for its museums and landmarks. However, The Hamptons does not have museums and landmarks.

Visitors will find world class museums and historical sights in Atlanta that are not to be missed. 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.

The Hamptons does not have museums and landmarks.


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

Atlanta
The Hamptons

Atlanta is a great destination for its restaurant scene. Also, The Hamptons is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Atlanta makes for a great culinary experience. 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.

The Hamptons has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. There are a number of fine dining restaurants in the area and seafood is a favorite. Some restaurants are known to be frequented by vacationing celebrities, so if you're hoping to spot someone famous, do some research and you may have some luck.

Is Atlanta or The Hamptons Better for Nightlife?

Atlanta
The Hamptons

Atlanta is a great destination for nightlife. Also, The Hamptons is still popular, but not quite as popular for nightlife and partying.

The people in Atlanta know how to have a good time. 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.

If you're looking for night time activities The Hamptons has a few options to choose from. There are plenty of nightclubs and bars throughout the area. Head to East Hampton for some of the best options.

Is Atlanta or The Hamptons Better for Resorts?

Atlanta
The Hamptons

The Hamptons is a great beach destination for its luxury resorts. However, Atlanta is not a resort destination.

The Hamptons is a popular resort destination that attracts visitors from everywhere. Known as a hangout for the rich and famous, there is no shortage of luxury hotels and resorts in the area.

Atlanta is not a resort destination.


Is Atlanta or The Hamptons Better for Beaches?

Atlanta
The Hamptons

The Hamptons is a nice place to visit for the beach. However, Atlanta is not a beach destination.

The Hamptons has a beach worth visiting. The beaches in the area feature long stretches of soft sand and plenty of space to spread out. Many beaches do come with a hefty price tag though as they require you to pay for parking or a permit.

Atlanta is not a beach destination.

Is Atlanta or The Hamptons Better for Hiking?

Atlanta
The Hamptons

The Hamptons is a nice place to visit for hiking. However, Atlanta is not a hiking destination.

The Hamptons has hiking trails worth exploring. There are a number of picturesque walks through the dunes and wetlands around the area. There is plenty of peaceful nature to explore if you're looking for a break from city life.

Atlanta is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Atlanta or The Hamptons?

Atlanta
The Hamptons

If you're looking to go shopping, Atlanta and The Hamptons both offer plenty of first-rate spots.

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.

The Hamptons is a famous shopping destination with plenty of stores. Known as a playground for the rich and famous, you can be assured there are plenty of shopping opportunities where you can flash your cash around town.


Is Atlanta or The Hamptons Better for Families?

Atlanta
The Hamptons

Atlanta is a great destination for its family-friendly activities. Also, The Hamptons is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

Atlanta is a very family-friendly place to visit. 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.

The Hamptons offers lots of family activities. The area has a family-friendly setting with many outdoor activities and a children's museum. There are music events, children's parks, small zoos, and, of course, the beach. Also make sure you pick up some ice cream and enjoy that quintessential beach experience.

Is Atlanta or The Hamptons Better for Couples?

Atlanta
The Hamptons

The Hamptons is a great beach destination for couples. Also, Atlanta is not as popular, but is still a nice city for romance.

The Hamptons is a great beach destination if you're traveling as a couple. Couples who enjoy beaches, dining out, and escaping the chaos of city life will enjoy a retreat here. The area has many beautiful parks and outdoor spaces, but there are also amazing restaurants that make for a great date night.

Atlanta is a nice destination for couples. 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.

Is Atlanta or The Hamptons Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Atlanta
The Hamptons

Atlanta is a city with good options for backpackers. However, The Hamptons is a beach destination with minimal options for backpackers and budget travelers.

Atlanta is a good city to visit for backpackers. 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.

The Hamptons is not the best destination for backpackers and budget travelers due to its high prices. It's more popular with the rich and famous than it is with the budget crowd, so you may struggle to find an affordable place to stay, much less a hostel.


Is Atlanta or The Hamptons Better for Students?

Atlanta
The Hamptons

Atlanta is a great destination for students. However, The Hamptons is not popular with students.

Students come from all over to stay in Atlanta. 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.

The Hamptons is not popular with students.

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

Atlanta
The Hamptons

Atlanta is a city with a few options for its public transit. However, The Hamptons is a beach destination with minimal options for times when you don't have a car.

Public transit is generally 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 quite limited in The Hamptons. While there are trains between towns, there aren't many options when it comes to public transit.

Is Atlanta or The Hamptons a more walkable city?

Atlanta
The Hamptons

Atlanta and The Hamptons are notable 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.

The Hamptons is somewhat walkable. While some of the towns offer a nice place for a stroll, most of the Hamptons is not very walkable and it's best to have a car.


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

Should I spend more time in The Hamptons or Atlanta?

How long in Atlanta or The Hamptons?

Both Atlanta and The Hamptons have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in The Hamptons than in Atlanta. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Atlanta, and 3-7 days is enough time in The Hamptons.

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

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


  • How many days in Atlanta or The Hamptons? Ideal Length of Stay
    Atlanta 2-4 
    The Hamptons 3-7

One day in Atlanta or The Hamptons?

Each neighborhood in Atlanta has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

In The Hamptons, you'll find shopping and nightlife. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. One reason most visitors come is for the shopping. This beach destination 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 The Hamptons?

Atlanta is a fun place to experience. 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.

In The Hamptons, you'll find nightlife and food. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. One reason most visitors come is for the shopping. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

Five days in Atlanta or The Hamptons?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the sprawling big city of Atlanta. 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.

The Hamptons is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that The Hamptons has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.


A week in Atlanta or The Hamptons?

Atlanta is a popular place to visit. 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in The Hamptons. In The Hamptons, you'll find shopping and nightlife. One reason most visitors come is for the shopping. It's also a relaxing resort destination. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one week here.


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.


Which place is cheaper, The Hamptons or Atlanta?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Atlanta is $173, while the average daily cost in The Hamptons is $223. 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 Atlanta and The Hamptons in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Atlanta $90
    The Hamptons $126
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Atlanta $180
    The Hamptons $252
Compare Hotels in Atlanta and The Hamptons

Looking for a hotel in Atlanta or The Hamptons? 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 Atlanta


Hotels in The Hamptons


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: Atlanta Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Atlanta $44
    The Hamptons $63
Typical Local Transportation Prices in Atlanta

Here are some examples of typical transportation prices from actual travelers in Atlanta:


  • MARTA Subway Ticket
    $4.00

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Atlanta

Also for Atlanta, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Arrival Transfer: Atlanta Airport ATL to Atlanta in Luxury SUV: $133
  • Atlanta Airport (ATL) to Atlanta - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $214
  • Atlanta Airport (ATL) to Lithia Springs -Arrival Private Transfer: $36
  • Atlanta to Atlanta Airport (ATL) Departure Private Transfer: $97
  • Departure Transfer: Atlanta to Atlanta Airport ATL by Luxury SUV: $127
  • Departure Transfer: Atlanta to Atlanta Airport ATL in Luxury SUV: $133
  • Hartsfield Jackson Airport (ATL) to Lithia Springs - Arrival Private Transfer: $33
  • Hartsfield Jackson Airport (ATL) to Lithia Springs - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $66
  • Hartsfield Jackson Atlanta Airport (ATL) to Atlanta - Arrival Private Transfer: $97
  • Hartsfield Jackson Atlanta Airport (ATL) to Atlanta - Roundtrip Private Transfer: $194
  • Hartsfield Jackson Atlanta Airport (ATL):Transfer to Atlanta: $278
  • Private Arrival Transfer from Atlanta Airport (ATL): $80

Is it cheaper to fly into Atlanta or The Hamptons?

Prices for flights to both The Hamptons and Atlanta 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
    Atlanta $43
    The Hamptons $60
Typical Food Prices in Atlanta

Here are some examples of typical meal expenses from previous travelers to Atlanta:


  • Fast Food Lunch (for 2)
    $15
  • Lunch
    $20

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Atlanta

For Atlanta, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • 2 Hour Guided Wood Fired Pizza Class in Atlanta: $55
  • City Lights Atlanta Night-Time Tour with Photos & Dinner Stop: $65
  • City Lights Night Tour with Photos & Dinner Stop: $65
  • 2 Hour Historic Market Food Tour and Hands-On Biscuit Class: $70
  • Historic Market Food Tour and Biscuit Cooking Class: $70
  • Ponce City Market 2.5-Hour Weekend Food Tour: $99
  • Food Tour of Inman Park and the Atlanta Beltline: $99

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Atlanta $56
    The Hamptons $22

Tours and Activities in Atlanta

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Atlanta.

  • Civil Rights Self-Guided Audio App Walking Tour: $6.75
  • Self-Guided Audio Walking Tour: $8.50
  • Atlanta Self-Guided Audio Tour: $9.00
  • Olympic Park & Pemberton Place: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $9.99
  • Civil Rights Movement in A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $12
  • Atlanta Scavenger Hunt and Sights Self-Guided Tour: $13
  • Atlanta Scavenger Hunt and Sights Self-Guided Tour: $13
  • SkyView Ferris Wheel Ticket: $16
  • Atlanta Scavenger Hunt Adventure: $18
  • World of Coca-Cola Skip-the-Ticket-Line Entry: $23
  • Skip the Ticket Line: World of Coca-Cola Admission in Atlanta: $23
  • LEGO® Discovery Center Admission Ticket: $28

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Atlanta $17
    The Hamptons $31

Sample the Local Flavors in Atlanta

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Atlanta:

  • Drag Queen Guided Pub Crawl and Cabaret Show: $36
  • ATLANTA Yes, Queen! Drag Queen Pub Crawl : $40
  • Half-Day Wine Tastings in the North Georgia Mountains : $115
  • North Georgia Mountains Two Vineyard Wine Tasting Tour: $137
  • Bartram Trail Hike plus Wine Tasting: $159
  • North Georgia Mountains Three Vineyard Wine Tasting Tour: $165
  • North Georgia Mountains Private Three Vineyard Wine Tasting Tour: $180


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Atlanta and The Hamptons, we can see that The Hamptons is more expensive. And not only is Atlanta much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Atlanta would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Atlanta 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 The Hamptons would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in The Hamptons than you might in Atlanta.

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


Which is Bigger, Atlanta or The Hamptons?

Atlanta has a larger population, and is about 100 times larger than the population of The Hamptons. When comparing the sizes of Atlanta and The Hamptons, 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 The Hamptons?

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 Atlanta or The Hamptons in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Atlanta as well as The Hamptons. The city activities and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Atlanta this time of year. Additionally, many travelers come to The Hamptons for the beaches, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Atlanta is a little warmer than The Hamptons. Typically, the summer temperatures in Atlanta in July average around 82°F (28°C), and The Hamptons averages at about 76°F (25°C).

It's quite rainy in The Hamptons. Atlanta receives a lot of rain in the summer. Atlanta usually gets more rain in July than The Hamptons. Atlanta gets 5.2 inches (133 mm) of rain, while The Hamptons receives 4.1 inches (104 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Atlanta 82°F (28°C) 
    The Hamptons 76°F (25°C)

Should I visit Atlanta or The Hamptons in the Autumn?

Both The Hamptons and Atlanta are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Atlanta for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene. Also, many visitors come to The Hamptons in the autumn for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Atlanta is generally a little warmer than The Hamptons. Daily temperatures in Atlanta average around 66°F (19°C), and The Hamptons fluctuates around 58°F (14°C).

In October, Atlanta usually receives around the same amount of rain as The Hamptons. Atlanta gets 3 inches (77 mm) of rain, while The Hamptons receives 3 inches (77 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Atlanta 66°F (19°C) 
    The Hamptons 58°F (14°C)

Should I visit Atlanta or The Hamptons in the Winter?

Both The Hamptons and Atlanta during the winter are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Atlanta in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to The Hamptons for the shopping scene and the cuisine during these months.

The Hamptons can be very cold during winter. Atlanta is much warmer than The Hamptons in the winter. The daily temperature in Atlanta averages around 45°F (7°C) in January, and The Hamptons fluctuates around 31°F (-0°C).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Atlanta. Atlanta usually gets more rain in January than The Hamptons. Atlanta gets 4.7 inches (120 mm) of rain, while The Hamptons receives 3.2 inches (81 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Atlanta 45°F (7°C) 
    The Hamptons 31°F (-0°C)

Should I visit Atlanta or The Hamptons in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Atlanta and The Hamptons. Most visitors come to Atlanta for the activities around the city during these months. Also, the spring months attract visitors to The Hamptons because of the beaches and the natural beauty.

In the spring, Atlanta is much warmer than The Hamptons. Typically, the spring temperatures in Atlanta in April average around 65°F (18°C), and The Hamptons averages at about 51°F (11°C).

Atlanta gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In April, Atlanta usually receives more rain than The Hamptons. Atlanta gets 4.1 inches (104 mm) of rain, while The Hamptons receives 3.8 inches (96 mm) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Atlanta 65°F (18°C) 
    The Hamptons 51°F (11°C)

Typical Weather for The Hamptons and Atlanta

Atlanta The Hamptons
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 45°F (7°C) 4.7 inches (120 mm) 31°F (-0°C) 3.2 inches (81 mm)
Feb 49°F (9°C) 4.8 inches (123 mm) 33°F (1°C) 2.8 inches (72 mm)
Mar 57°F (14°C) 5.8 inches (147 mm) 41°F (5°C) 3.6 inches (91 mm)
Apr 65°F (18°C) 4.1 inches (104 mm) 51°F (11°C) 3.8 inches (96 mm)
May 73°F (23°C) 4.2 inches (107 mm) 62°F (17°C) 3.8 inches (96 mm)
Jun 80°F (27°C) 3.6 inches (91 mm) 71°F (22°C) 3.6 inches (91 mm)
Jul 82°F (28°C) 5.2 inches (133 mm) 76°F (25°C) 4.1 inches (104 mm)
Aug 82°F (28°C) 3.7 inches (95 mm) 75°F (24°C) 3.7 inches (95 mm)
Sep 76°F (25°C) 3.5 inches (89 mm) 68°F (20°C) 3.4 inches (86 mm)
Oct 66°F (19°C) 3 inches (77 mm) 58°F (14°C) 3 inches (77 mm)
Nov 57°F (14°C) 3.9 inches (99 mm) 47°F (9°C) 3.8 inches (96 mm)
Dec 48°F (9°C) 4.4 inches (111 mm) 37°F (3°C) 3.4 inches (86 mm)