A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Boone vs. Gatlinburg for Nightlife, Skiing, Hiking, and Couples

Should you visit Boone or Gatlinburg?

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

Which city is more affordable and which is best for your travel style? If you're trying to figure out where to go next, comparing the travel costs between Boone and Gatlinburg can help you decide which place is right for you.

Boone

Boone is a picturesque, charming, and relaxing town. With plenty of activities and sights, this is a small town worth visiting. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Other reasons to visit include hiking, shopping, and museums.

Gatlinburg

Gatlinburg is a wild, flashy, and high energy city. It's also popular because of the shopping, museums, and skiing.

Boone and Gatlinburg: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular for skiing
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Small town charm
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to the Blue Ridge Parkway
Pros
  • Popular for skiing
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Nice resorts
  • Good for hiking
  • Good for couples and romance
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with backpackers


Is there more to do in Boone or Gatlinburg?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Boone than Gatlinburg, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Boone is better known for its skiing, food, shopping, small town charm, and impressive beauty, while Gatlinburg is more popular for its nightlife and resorts. Gatlinburg is more touristy than Boone and is known for its countless entertainment venues as well as its easy access to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Boone is well known for its proximity to great hiking, skiing, and small town charm. Also, Boone is famous for the Blue Ridge Parkway.

How is Boone different from Gatlinburg?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Boone or Gatlinburg Better for Skiing?

Boone
Gatlinburg

Boone is great for skiing. Also, Gatlinburg is not as popular, but is still a nice city for snow skiing.

Boone offers world-class skiing that is fun for everyone. It's a very popular ski destination in North Carolina. There are family-friendly slopes as well as more challenging options. Head to the popular Appalachian Ski Mountain, nearby Beech Mountain, or Sugar Mountain for some of the area's best skiing.

For winter sports and skiing, Gatlinburg is a great destination to visit. Ober Gatlinburg is the only ski area in Tennessee. The winter activities open after Thanksgiving and include snow skiing, snowboarding, ice skating, and tubing.


Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Boone or Gatlinburg?

Boone
Gatlinburg

You'll find a number of notable museums and attractions in both Gatlinburg and Boone.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Boone. Most people spend the majority of their time exploring the natural beauty, but there are also several small local museums such as the Banner House Museum.

Gatlinburg is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. Museums range from gaudy to quirky. Check out the Hollywood Star Cars Museum, the Salt and Pepper Shaker Museum, Ripley's Believe It or Not, the Hollywood Wax Museum, and the Titanic Museum. There's also the Gatlinburg Space Needle and the Gatlinburg SkyBridge.

Is the Food Better in Boone or Gatlinburg? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Boone
Gatlinburg

Boone is very good for its local flavors and cuisine. However, Gatlinburg is not a good destination for its local cuisine and restaurants.

There are plenty of up and coming restaurants around Boone. You'll find farm to table restaurants, local cafes, and all of the standard chain restaurants nearby. Check for a High Country Grown certification if you want to prioritize locally sourced ingredients.

You'll find the standard options when it comes to food in Gatlinburg. Staying true to form, restaurants in Gatlinburg cater to the tourist scene and serve up burgers, pizza, pancakes, and other classic favorites.

Is Boone or Gatlinburg Better for Nightlife?

Boone
Gatlinburg

Gatlinburg is an amazing city to visit for its evening party scene. Also, Boone is not as popular, but is still a nice town for nightlife.

Gatlinburg has a colorful and one-of-a-kind nightlife scene. Live music, theatrical shows, as well as bars and clubs that stay open late into the night give this town a huge party atmosphere. During the peak season the town is packed with people looking to have a good time and you'll find tons of things to do by simply walking down the main drag.

Boone offers plenty to do in the evening. It's a small town, but there are local breweries and a great nightlife scene that is, in large part, influenced by the large student population.


Is Boone or Gatlinburg Better for Resorts?

Boone
Gatlinburg

Gatlinburg is a great city for its luxury resorts. However, Boone is not a resort destination.

Vacationers can choose from a number of terrific resorts in Gatlinburg. There are plenty of resorts and vacation clubs near town. Many have pools, waterslides, or hot tubs.

Boone is not a resort destination.

Is Boone or Gatlinburg Better for Hiking?

Boone
Gatlinburg

You'll find very good hiking in both Boone and Gatlinburg.

Many visitors go to Boone for the hiking trails. The area is filled with wonderful hikes, particularly around Grandfather Mountain and along the Blue Ridge Parkway. The famed Appalachian Trail passes through the area as well. Many hikes take you through beautiful forests, passed dramatic waterfalls, and to breathtaking viewpoints.

Gatlinburg is a popular spot for hiking. You'll need to head out of town into the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, but once you're there the hiking is impressive. There are waterfall hikes, trails to viewpoints, and loops that take you through wildflowers. Some of the most popular trails include Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail, Middle Prong Trail, and the Gatlinburg Trail.

Is the Shopping Better in Boone or Gatlinburg?

Boone
Gatlinburg

Boone is great for shopping. Also, Gatlinburg is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its shopping opportunities.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Boone. Wander along King Street for some of the town's best shopping. There are independent vendors and antique shops that are fun to pop into. The town is also known for its farmer's markets.

Gatlinburg offers some nice shopping areas. There are tourist traps and souvenir shops around town, but you can also head to the Great Smoky Arts and Crafts Community where you can meet local artists and learn about their work.


Is Boone or Gatlinburg Better for Families?

Boone
Gatlinburg

Boone is great for its kid-friendly activities. However, Gatlinburg is not a family-friendly destination.

Boone is a very family-friendly destination. Near town you'll find kid-friendly hikes, such as Linville Falls. There are also several places where kids can go ziplining or rock climbing. Parks and outdoor activities are abundant and the whole family will enjoy the setting.

Gatlinburg is not a family-friendly destination. Ober Gatlinburg is a combination ski resort and amusement park that is a highlight for many families. During the warmer season, horseback riding and waterparks are popular. There's also a Ripley's Aquarium, minigolf, and Gatlin's Fun Center. Nearby you'll find Dollywood and Pigeon Forge.

Is Boone or Gatlinburg Better for Couples?

Boone
Gatlinburg

Both Boone and Gatlinburg are very good destinations to visit as a couple.

Boone is a great town if you're traveling as a couple. The charming town has a romantic setting with local restaurants, beautiful hikes, and plenty of shopping. Couples enjoy staying at bed and breakfasts and enjoying the quaint atmosphere.

Gatlinburg is a very popular place to visit for couples. If you're looking for a flashy and ostentatious experience, then there are all the typical activities around town - Ripley's Believe It or Not, the Gatlinburg Space Needle, or Ober Gatlinburg. For a bit more nature, you can head out of town and enjoy one of the many hiking trails. There are also breweries and wineries in the area, as well as a range of resorts.

Is Boone or Gatlinburg Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Boone
Gatlinburg

Boone is very good for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Gatlinburg is not a good destination for backpackers.

Boone is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. While there aren't many hostels in the area, there are plenty of campgrounds. The nearby Appalachian State University also ensures that there are plenty of fun activities for young visitors.

Gatlinburg is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. It's a touristy town with plenty of cheap motels in the area. There are also campgrounds and hiking not far away.


Is Boone or Gatlinburg Better for Students?

Boone
Gatlinburg

Boone is renowned for its student-friendly activities. However, Gatlinburg is not popular with students.

Students come from all over the world to visit Boone. This mountain town offers a great setting for students who enjoy hiking and skiing. Appalachian State University is a fun college with plenty of activities going on.

Gatlinburg is not popular with students.

Is Boone or Gatlinburg Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Boone
Gatlinburg

Gatlinburg is very good for times when you don't have a car. However, Boone is not known for its public transit.

While Gatlinburg offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There's a free trolley service that offers a convenient way to get around town.

Public transit is generally limited in Boone. You really need a car to make the most of your time.

Is Boone or Gatlinburg a more walkable city?

Boone
Gatlinburg

Boone and Gatlinburg are very good when it comes to walkability.

Boone is a very walkable destination. Head to King Street for the best shopping and the most pedestrian-friendly part of town.

Gatlinburg is very walkable. The downtown area is pedestrian-friendly and most of the attractions in town can be reached on foot. If you want to leave town, a car is a must, but in town traffic and parking can be frustrating, so walk when you can.


For even more information, also check out Is Boone Worth Visiting? and Is Gatlinburg Worth Visiting?.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Sightseeing Tours in United States of America, The Best Cruise Tours and Packages in United States of America, The Best Cultural Tours in United States of America, and The Best Photography Tours in United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Gatlinburg or Boone?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Boone is $173, while the average daily cost in Gatlinburg is $190. 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 Boone and Gatlinburg in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Boone $91
    Gatlinburg $80
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Boone $182
    Gatlinburg $160
Compare Hotels in Boone and Gatlinburg

Looking for a hotel in Boone or Gatlinburg? 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 Boone


Hotels in Gatlinburg


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: Boone Hotel Prices and Gatlinburg Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Boone $33
    Gatlinburg $35

Is it cheaper to fly into Boone or Gatlinburg?

Prices for flights to both Gatlinburg and Boone 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
    Boone $53
    Gatlinburg $85
Typical Food Prices in Boone

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


  • Restaurant Lunch for 2
    $20

Typical Food Prices in Gatlinburg

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


  • Chinese Food Dinner (for 2)
    $21

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Boone $53
    Gatlinburg $24

Typical Entertainment Prices in Gatlinburg

For Gatlinburg, here are some examples of average entertainment and activity prices from previous travelers:


  • Horseback Riding Photos
    $22
  • Horseback Riding (for 2)
    $55

Tours and Activities in Gatlinburg

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

  • 3-Hour Nantahala River Fully Guided Rafting Experience: $65
  • 6-Line Zip at Night Tour: $72
  • 7-Line Zipline Experience in Sevierville: $119
  • Admission Ticket: Brian Hoffman's Remembering Red - A Tribute to Red Skelton: $35
  • Admission Ticket: Patty Waszak Show in Pigeon Forge: $35
  • Appalachian Trail Adventure: $175
  • Beyond The Lens Interactive Museum Admission Ticket: $27
  • Blue Ridge Parkway (Cherokee to Asheville) Self-Guided Audio Tour: $15
  • Blue Ridge Parkway: Audio Driving Tour: $25
  • Douglas Lake View Scenic Helicopter Tour: $41
  • East Tennessee Off Road ATV Guided Experience: $71
  • Extended Douglas Lake Region Tour by Helicopter: $63

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Boone $26
    Gatlinburg $15

Sample the Local Flavors in Gatlinburg

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Gatlinburg:

  • Famous Moonshine & Wine Tour From Pigeon Forge: $70


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


Which is Bigger, Boone or Gatlinburg?

Boone has a larger population, and is about 3 times larger than the population of Gatlinburg. When comparing the sizes of Boone and Gatlinburg, 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.