A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Beaufort vs. Chattanooga for Food, Couples, Attractions, and Nightlife

Should you visit Beaufort or Chattanooga?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Beaufort or Chattanooga, 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.

Beaufort

Beaufort is a character-filled, southern, and charming town. As this is a charming small town, visitors also come to explore the sights and local activities. It offers plenty of beauty for visitors. With a quaint atmosphere, it also offers a unique feeling. Other popular activities here include shopping, museums, and food.

Chattanooga

Chattanooga is a outdoorsy, thriving, and bustling city. It's also known for museums, nightlife, and food.

Beaufort and Chattanooga: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular beach
  • Scenic old town
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Small town charm
  • Quaint atmosphere
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less family-friendly
  • Public transit not as usable
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good public transit


Is there more to do in Beaufort or Chattanooga?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Beaufort than Chattanooga, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Beaufort is better known for its food, beaches, historical sights, small town charm, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere, while Chattanooga is more popular for its nightlife and hiking. Beaufort is well known for its Lowcountry cuisine and historic homes. Also, Beaufort is famous for Henry C. Chambers Waterfront Park. Chattanooga is well known for it's hikes, railways, and nearby natural areas.

How is Beaufort different from Chattanooga?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Beaufort or Chattanooga?

Beaufort
Chattanooga

Both Beaufort and Chattanooga have notable landmarks and museums for visitors.

Beaufort is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. The town's museums highlight the region's past. There are four popular museums that you can visit - the Beaufort History Museum, Parris Island Museum, Verdier House Museum, and York W. Bailey Museum.

Chattanooga offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. It's a thriving city and there are a number of museums to explore. The Hunter Museum of American Art is great for art enthusiasts. There's also the Creative Discovery Museum, the Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum, and the 6th Cavalry Museum, as well as several smaller museums that you can visit.


Is the Food Better in Beaufort or Chattanooga? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Beaufort
Chattanooga

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

Dining out in Beaufort is an experience not to be missed. Soak up the charming atmosphere by dining at one of the local restaurants. Many serve Lowcountry cuisine which includes She-crab soup, fried green tomatoes, shrimp burgers, and barbecue.

There are plenty of up and coming restaurants around Chattanooga. There are a growing number of restaurants that range from local dives to fine dining. Fried food is common, but you'll also find Mexican and classic hamburgers. Popular dishes that are local to the area include catfish, southern barbecue, and hush puppies.

Is Beaufort or Chattanooga Better for Nightlife?

Beaufort
Chattanooga

Chattanooga is a nice place to visit for nightlife. However, Beaufort is a mediocre town for nightlife and partying.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Chattanooga. You'll find plenty of bars and clubs around town. There are also a number of comedy and improv clubs that are fun to check out.

Those looking for nightlife will find a few places to hang out in Beaufort. You'll find bars, grills, and taverns in town, but most people don't visit for the nightlife scene.

Is Beaufort or Chattanooga Better for Beaches?

Beaufort
Chattanooga

Beaufort is a popular place for the beach. However, Chattanooga is not a beach destination.

Beaufort is a good option for a beach vacation. The town has a nice waterfront, but you have to head about half an hour out of town for a real beach. One of the best options is Hunting Island State Park.

Chattanooga is not a beach destination.


Is Beaufort or Chattanooga Better for its Old Town?

Beaufort
Chattanooga

Beaufort is a great destination for its historic old town charm. However, Chattanooga does not have a historic old town.

Many visitors explore the old town while visiting Beaufort. Historic homes, some that were built before the Civil War, offer a glimpse into the past. Beaufort is the second oldest town in South Carolina and it holds on to much of its charm and character.

Chattanooga does not have a historic old town.

Is Beaufort or Chattanooga Better for Hiking?

Beaufort
Chattanooga

Chattanooga is notable for the nearby hiking options. However, Beaufort is not a hiking destination.

Chattanooga is a popular spot for hiking. It's proximity to the mountains means that you don't have to go far to find good hiking. Within a half hour of town there are more than 50 trailheads. Lookout Mountain and Signal Mountain are both hiking destinations. Several trails have swimming spots and many pass through nice forests or head to impressive viewpoints.

Beaufort is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Beaufort or Chattanooga?

Beaufort
Chattanooga

Both Beaufort and Chattanooga are notable shopping destinations.

Beaufort is a great destination for shopping. Head downtown for some souvenir shopping or to check out the art galleries or fashion boutiques.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Chattanooga. Head downtown for local shops or to the larger malls if you want mainstream stores. Many visitors enjoy antiquing while they're in town, but there are also farmer's markets and thrift stores.


Is Beaufort or Chattanooga Better for Families?

Beaufort
Chattanooga

Chattanooga is a nice place to visit for its family-friendly activities. However, Beaufort is a mediocre town for its kid-friendly activities.

Chattanooga is a family-friendly place to visit. Many people enjoy a visit to the Tennessee Aquarium, which has a touch tank and a butterfly exhibit, among other things. Near downtown, Coolidge Park is a great place for kids to get their energy out. There's also the popular Lookout Mountain Incline Railway as well as many hiking trails in the area.

Beaufort is not always a place people visit with their families. There are parks and outdoor activities in the area, but one of the best options is to head out of town to the beach.

Is Beaufort or Chattanooga Better for Couples?

Beaufort
Chattanooga

Beaufort is a great destination for couples. Also, Chattanooga is still popular, but not quite as popular for romance.

Couples visit Beaufort frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. There are many charming and romantic spots around town as well as historic inns where you can stay. Couples will enjoy the waterfront area or exploring one of the nature parks that are nearby. There are also quaint local restaurants that make for a nice date night.

Chattanooga is a nice destination for couples. Many couples enjoy staying at a local inn and then dining in a nice restaurant or visiting a winery. There's an eclectic art district to explore as well as horse drawn carriages and plenty of nearby hiking trails.

Is Beaufort or Chattanooga Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Beaufort
Chattanooga

Chattanooga is notable for its public transit. However, Beaufort is a mediocre town for times when you don't have a car.

Many visitors rely on the effecient and affordable public transportation in Chattanooga. The city has a convenient and free electric shuttle service. It travels through the downtown and has stops at many points of interest such as the Chattanooga Choo Choo and the Tennessee Aquarium.

Public transit is quite limited in Beaufort. There is no reliable public transportation system in the area.


Is Beaufort or Chattanooga a more walkable city?

Beaufort
Chattanooga

Beaufort and Chattanooga both are very good when exploring on foot.

Beaufort is very walkable. The quaint downtown is walkable and offers easy access to art galleries, restaurants, and shops.

Chattanooga is a very walkable town. The city has put a lot of effort into improving its walkability. In particular, the downtown is nice to explore on foot.

For even more information, also check out Is Beaufort Worth Visiting? and Is Chattanooga Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Chattanooga or Beaufort?

How long in Beaufort or Chattanooga?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Beaufort and Chattanooga. In our opinion, Chattanooga has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Chattanooga than Beaufort. In general, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Beaufort, and 2-3 days is enough time in Chattanooga.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Chattanooga than Beaufort 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 Chattanooga.


  • How many days in Beaufort or Chattanooga? Ideal Length of Stay
    Beaufort 1-3 
    Chattanooga 2-3

One day in Beaufort or Chattanooga?

Beaufort is a small town with plenty to do. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. One day should give you a good understanding of everything this town has to offer. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

The city of Chattanooga offers food and shopping. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

A weekend in Beaufort or Chattanooga?

Beaufort might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. This town offers something for everyone. Plenty of people spend a weekend in the area when traveling. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

Chattanooga is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this city makes for a great vacation. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Chattanooga, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.


Five days in Beaufort or Chattanooga?

Because Beaufort is a small town, it's easy to explore in a short amount of time. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

Chattanooga is a popular choice for travelers. Five days 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. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A week in Beaufort or Chattanooga?

Since Beaufort is a small town, it's easily explored when your time is limited. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

Chattanooga is a great place to explore. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This city offers something for everyone.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 10-Day Tours in United States of America, The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in United States of America, The Best 2-Week Tours in United States of America, and The Best 3-Week Tours in United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Chattanooga or Beaufort?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Beaufort is $131, while the average daily cost in Chattanooga is $182. 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 Beaufort and Chattanooga in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Beaufort $100
    Chattanooga $92
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Beaufort $200
    Chattanooga $184
Compare Hotels in Beaufort and Chattanooga

Looking for a hotel in Beaufort or Chattanooga? 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 Beaufort


Hotels in Chattanooga


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: Beaufort Hotel Prices and Chattanooga Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Beaufort -
    Chattanooga $35

Typical Local Transportation Prices in Chattanooga

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


  • Chattanooga Zoo (for 2)
    $16

Is it cheaper to fly into Beaufort or Chattanooga?

Prices for flights to both Chattanooga and Beaufort 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
    Beaufort $31
    Chattanooga $59

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Chattanooga

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

  • MLK Walking Art History & Food Tour: $65
  • Historic Southside Food Tour in Chattanooga: $99
  • ChattaBrunch Food Tour: $99
  • Downtown Chattanooga Food Tour: $119

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Beaufort -
    Chattanooga $52

Tours and Activities in Beaufort

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Beaufort are as follows:

  • Historic City Tour by Bus: $29
  • Pat Conroy's Beaufort Tour by Golf Cart: $40
  • Gullah Heritage Tour: $49
  • Beaufort Tipsy Tour: $55

Tours and Activities in Chattanooga

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

  • Scavenger Hunt Adventure Self-Guided City Game: $10
  • National Medal of Honor Heritage Museum Admission Ticket in Chattanooga: $14
  • Scenic City Ghosts, Voodoo, Murder Mystery Tour: $21
  • Guided Ghost Walking Tour: $23
  • ChattaBOOga Ghost Walk Tour in Chattanooga: $23
  • Chattanooga Guided Walking Tour: $23
  • Original Local Award-Winning Walking Ghost Tour: $25
  • Murder & Mayhem Haunted History Walking Tour: $25
  • Ghost & Booze Tour of Chattanooga - 21+ Over: $25
  • A Spooky and Family-Friendly Walking Tour: $25
  • Family-Friendly Ghost Tour in Chattanooga: $25
  • Ghosts of Scenic City: Chattanooga Ghosts, Murder & Mystery Tour: $25

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Beaufort -
    Chattanooga $24


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

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


Which is Bigger, Beaufort or Chattanooga?

Chattanooga has a larger population, and is about 10 times larger than the population of Beaufort. When comparing the sizes of Beaufort and Chattanooga, 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 Beaufort or Chattanooga?

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 Beaufort or Chattanooga in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Beaufort and Chattanooga. Many visitors come to Beaufort in the summer for the beaches, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Chattanooga for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In July, Beaufort is generally around the same temperature as Chattanooga. Daily temperatures in Beaufort average around 82°F (28°C), and Chattanooga fluctuates around 81°F (27°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Chattanooga this time of the year. In Beaufort, it's very sunny this time of the year. Beaufort usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Chattanooga during summer. Beaufort gets 267 hours of sunny skies, while Chattanooga receives 265 hours of full sun in the summer.

Chattanooga receives a lot of rain in the summer. Beaufort gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In July, Beaufort usually receives more rain than Chattanooga. Beaufort gets 7.9 inches (200 mm) of rain, while Chattanooga receives 5.2 inches (131 mm) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Beaufort 82°F (28°C) 
    Chattanooga 81°F (27°C)

Should I visit Beaufort or Chattanooga in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Beaufort as well as Chattanooga. Most visitors come to Beaufort for the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area during these months. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Chattanooga because of the hiking trails and the shopping scene.

Beaufort is a little warmer than Chattanooga in the autumn. The daily temperature in Beaufort averages around 68°F (20°C) in October, and Chattanooga fluctuates around 63°F (17°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Chattanooga. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Beaufort this time of the year. In the autumn, Beaufort often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Chattanooga. Beaufort gets 223 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Chattanooga receives 211 hours of full sun.

Beaufort usually gets around the same amount of rain in October as Chattanooga. Beaufort gets 2.8 inches (71 mm) of rain, while Chattanooga receives 3 inches (75 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Beaufort 68°F (20°C) 
    Chattanooga 63°F (17°C)

Should I visit Beaufort or Chattanooga in the Winter?

Both Chattanooga and Beaufort are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The winter months attract visitors to Beaufort because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Chattanooga this time of year.

It's quite cold in Chattanooga in the winter. In the winter, Beaufort is much warmer than Chattanooga. Typically, the winter temperatures in Beaufort in January average around 48°F (9°C), and Chattanooga averages at about 40°F (5°C).

Beaufort usually receives more sunshine than Chattanooga during winter. Beaufort gets 176 hours of sunny skies, while Chattanooga receives 145 hours of full sun in the winter.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Chattanooga. In January, Beaufort usually receives less rain than Chattanooga. Beaufort gets 2.9 inches (74 mm) of rain, while Chattanooga receives 5.4 inches (137 mm) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Beaufort 48°F (9°C) 
    Chattanooga 40°F (5°C)

Should I visit Beaufort or Chattanooga in the Spring?

Both Chattanooga and Beaufort during the spring are popular places to visit. The beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty are the main draw to Beaufort this time of year.

In April, Beaufort is generally a little warmer than Chattanooga. Daily temperatures in Beaufort average around 67°F (19°C), and Chattanooga fluctuates around 62°F (17°C).

In Chattanooga, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Beaufort. In the spring, Beaufort often gets more sunshine than Chattanooga. Beaufort gets 275 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Chattanooga receives 243 hours of full sun.

Chattanooga gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Beaufort usually gets less rain in April than Chattanooga. Beaufort gets 2.9 inches (74 mm) of rain, while Chattanooga receives 4.4 inches (112 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Beaufort 67°F (19°C) 
    Chattanooga 62°F (17°C)

Typical Weather for Chattanooga and Beaufort

Beaufort Chattanooga
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 48°F (9°C) 2.9 inches (74 mm) 40°F (5°C) 5.4 inches (137 mm)
Feb 52°F (11°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm) 44°F (7°C) 5.2 inches (132 mm)
Mar 58°F (15°C) 4.4 inches (112 mm) 53°F (12°C) 5.6 inches (143 mm)
Apr 67°F (19°C) 2.9 inches (74 mm) 62°F (17°C) 4.4 inches (112 mm)
May 73°F (23°C) 4.2 inches (107 mm) 70°F (21°C) 3.4 inches (87 mm)
Jun 80°F (26°C) 5.9 inches (150 mm) 78°F (25°C) 3.7 inches (93 mm)
Jul 82°F (28°C) 7.9 inches (200 mm) 81°F (27°C) 5.2 inches (131 mm)
Aug 81°F (27°C) 6.5 inches (164 mm) 80°F (27°C) 3.2 inches (82 mm)
Sep 77°F (25°C) 5.6 inches (141 mm) 74°F (24°C) 3.7 inches (94 mm)
Oct 68°F (20°C) 2.8 inches (71 mm) 63°F (17°C) 3 inches (75 mm)
Nov 59°F (15°C) 1.9 inches (49 mm) 53°F (12°C) 3.9 inches (100 mm)
Dec 52°F (11°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm) 44°F (7°C) 5.2 inches (133 mm)