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

Should you visit Chattanooga or Lancaster?

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

Should I visit Chattanooga or Lancaster? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

Chattanooga

Chattanooga is a bustling, outdoorsy, and thriving city. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food.

Lancaster

Lancaster is a picturesque, scenic, and traditional town. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. Other popular activities here include museums, food, and shopping.

Chattanooga and Lancaster: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good public transit
  • Very walkable
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with backpackers
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less popular with backpackers
  • Public transit not as usable
  • Less walkable


Is there more to do in Chattanooga or Lancaster?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Chattanooga than Lancaster. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Chattanooga is very popular for its nightlife and hiking, while Lancaster attracts visitors for its museums, shopping, and impressive beauty. Chattanooga is famous for it's hikes, railways, and nearby natural areas. It is also well known for Rock City. Lancaster is famous for its history and long running Amish community.

How is Chattanooga different from Lancaster?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Chattanooga
Lancaster

Lancaster is a great destination for its museums and landmarks. Also, Chattanooga is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historical sights.

Lancaster offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. Filled with history and local culture, there are many educational opportunities in the area where you can learn about Amish traditions. The Amish Village has tours and unique experiences. The town also has James Buchanan's Wheatland, the Railroad Museum of Pennsylvania, the National Toy Train Museum, the Ephrata Cloister, and the National Watch & Clock Museum, among many others.

Chattanooga is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. 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 Chattanooga or Lancaster? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Chattanooga
Lancaster

Dining out at restaurants in both Chattanooga and Lancaster can be an enjoyable experience.

There are many up and coming restaurants in the Chattanooga area. 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.

There are plenty of up and coming restaurants around Lancaster. You can sample authentic Pennsylvania Dutch dishes at one of the Amish restaurants in the area. Many places serve food family-style and dishes include chicken pot pie, ham balls, and pork and sauerkraut. Whoopie pies also originated in the area.

Is Chattanooga or Lancaster Better for Nightlife?

Chattanooga
Lancaster

Chattanooga is a nice place to visit for its evening party scene. However, Lancaster is not known for nightlife.

If you're looking for night time activities Chattanooga has a few options to choose from. 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.

Most people don't head to Lancaster specifically for the nightlife scene, but you can find a few options. It's a small town, but you'll still find local pubs and cozy bars where you can enjoy a drink in a laid back atmosphere.

Is Chattanooga or Lancaster Better for Hiking?

Chattanooga
Lancaster

Chattanooga is a great city for hiking. However, Lancaster is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors go to Chattanooga for the hiking trails. 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.

Lancaster is not a hiking destination.


Is the Shopping Better in Chattanooga or Lancaster?

Chattanooga
Lancaster

Lancaster is a great destination for its shopping areas. Also, Chattanooga is still popular, but not quite as popular for shopping.

Browsing through shops is a popular activity in Lancaster. Many visitors pick up hand-crafted Amish items while they're in town. Furniture and Amish quilts are particularly popular. Farmers markets and antique shopping are both unique in the area and there are also art galleries and several outlet stores that you can visit.

Plenty of visitors enjoy shopping while in 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 Chattanooga or Lancaster Better for Families?

Chattanooga
Lancaster

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

Lancaster is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. In you area you'll find farms and petting zoos, amusement parks, and train rides. They can learn about a unique lifestyle at the Amish Experience or soak up the local beauty and farmland in the surrounding countryside.

Chattanooga offers lots of family activities. 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.

Is Chattanooga or Lancaster Better for Couples?

Chattanooga
Lancaster

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

Couples visit Lancaster frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. This region is known for it's local beauty and serene farmland, making it a relaxing and peaceful destination for couples. There are walking trails, outdoor activities, buggy rides, and a variety of dining experiences. You can also stay at a bed and breakfast or local inn.

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

Chattanooga
Lancaster

Chattanooga is a great city for times when you don't have a car. However, Lancaster is not known for its public transit.

Chattanooga offers a very effecient public transportation network. 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 generally limited in Lancaster. The city has buses and several transportation options, but once you're outside of the urban core, your options are limited.

Is Chattanooga or Lancaster a more walkable city?

Chattanooga
Lancaster

Chattanooga is a great city for its ease of walking around. However, Lancaster is not known for its walkability.

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

Lancaster is generally not very walkable. While the city itself has walkable areas, most visitors want to get out and explore the countryside, which requires a car.

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

Should I spend more time in Lancaster or Chattanooga?

How long in Chattanooga or Lancaster?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Chattanooga and Lancaster. You can spend similar amounts of time exploring each one. However, 2-3 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Chattanooga than Lancaster 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 Chattanooga or Lancaster? Ideal Length of Stay
    Chattanooga 2-3 
    Lancaster 2-3

One day in Chattanooga or Lancaster?

You'll find shopping and museums around the city of Chattanooga. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the picturesque town of Lancaster. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.


A weekend in Chattanooga or Lancaster?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the bustling destination of Chattanooga. Hikers are also drawn to this area. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Visitors enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the picturesque destination of Lancaster. 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.

Five days in Chattanooga or Lancaster?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the outdoorsy city of Chattanooga. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

The picturesque town of Lancaster offers museums and food. 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.

A week in Chattanooga or Lancaster?

Chattanooga is a popular choice for travelers. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. One week 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. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Many people enjoy the food and shopping when visiting Lancaster. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.


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


Which place is cheaper, Lancaster or Chattanooga?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Chattanooga is $182, while the average daily cost in Lancaster is $183. 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 Chattanooga and Lancaster in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Chattanooga $92
    Lancaster $91
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Chattanooga $184
    Lancaster $182
Compare Hotels in Chattanooga and Lancaster

Looking for a hotel in Chattanooga or Lancaster? 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 Chattanooga


Hotels in Lancaster


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: Chattanooga Hotel Prices and Lancaster Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Chattanooga $35
    Lancaster $69
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 Chattanooga or Lancaster?

Prices for flights to both Lancaster and Chattanooga 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
    Chattanooga $59
    Lancaster $53

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

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Lancaster

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

  • International Food Tour Lancaster, Pennsylvania: $62
  • Red Rose Walking Food Tour in Lancaster: $65

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Chattanooga $52
    Lancaster $19

Tours and Activities in Chattanooga

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

  • 2 Virtual Reality Simulator Bundle for Outdoor Experiences: $27
  • 2-Hour Paddleboard Adventure to Nickajack Bat Cave: $75
  • ChattaBOOga Ghost Walk Tour in Chattanooga: $23
  • Chattanooga "C-Block Prison Break" Escape Room Admission Ticket: $36
  • Chattanooga "Locker Room Lockdown: Mascot Rescue" Escape Room Admission Ticket: $34
  • Chattanooga "Secret Agent" Escape Room Admission Ticket: $34
  • Chattanooga "The Inheritance Mystery Room" Escape Room Admission Ticket: $36
  • Chattanooga "Vaccine: Search For The Zombie Cure" Escape Room Admission Ticket: $36
  • Chattanooga Guided Walking Tour: $23
  • A Spooky and Family-Friendly Walking Tour: $25
  • Adults-Only Haunted City Walking Tour: $35
  • City Trolley Tour with Coker Automotive Museum visit: $44

Tours and Activities in Lancaster

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

  • Guided Tour of the 1792 Johannes Mueller House: $12
  • Guided Ghost Tour of Lititz: $12
  • 45-Minute Private Guided Historic Walking Tour in Lititz: $12
  • Historic Columbia, PA: Guided Tour of the Bank Museum: $14
  • Evening Ghost Tour by Candlelight: $25
  • Lititz Whiskey and History Tour : $25
  • Lancaster Scavenger Hunt Adventure: $25
  • Lancaster Puzzling Adventure: $35
  • Lancaster County: Amish Farmlands, Museum Tour, Farm Visit: $36
  • Premium Amish Country Tour including Amish Farm and House: $36
  • Amish Experience SuperSaver Package: $47
  • Lancaster History and Breakfast Walking Tour: $57

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Chattanooga $24
    Lancaster $11

Sample the Local Flavors in Lancaster

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

  • Guided Brewery Walking Tour in Lancaster City: $79
  • Lancaster City: The Ultimate Walking Craft Brewery Tour: $79


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


Which is Bigger, Chattanooga or Lancaster?

Chattanooga has a larger population, and is about 3 times larger than the population of Lancaster. When comparing the sizes of Chattanooga and Lancaster, 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 Chattanooga or Lancaster?

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 Chattanooga or Lancaster in the Summer?

Both Lancaster and Chattanooga during the summer are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Chattanooga for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Lancaster in the summer for the family-friendly experiences.

Chattanooga is around the same temperature as Lancaster in the summer. The daily temperature in Chattanooga averages around 81°F (27°C) in July, and Lancaster fluctuates around 77°F (25°C).

In Lancaster, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Chattanooga. In the summer, Chattanooga often gets less sunshine than Lancaster. Chattanooga gets 265 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Lancaster receives 310 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Chattanooga. Chattanooga usually gets more rain in July than Lancaster. Chattanooga gets 5.2 inches (131 mm) of rain, while Lancaster receives 3.6 inches (91 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Chattanooga 81°F (27°C) 
    Lancaster 77°F (25°C)

Should I visit Chattanooga or Lancaster in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Chattanooga and Lancaster. Many visitors come to Chattanooga in the autumn for the hiking trails and the shopping scene. Also, most visitors come to Lancaster for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

In the autumn, Chattanooga is a little warmer than Lancaster. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Chattanooga in October average around 63°F (17°C), and Lancaster averages at about 56°F (13°C).

In Chattanooga, it's very sunny this time of the year. Chattanooga usually receives more sunshine than Lancaster during autumn. Chattanooga gets 211 hours of sunny skies, while Lancaster receives 194 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Chattanooga usually receives around the same amount of rain as Lancaster. Chattanooga gets 3 inches (75 mm) of rain, while Lancaster receives 2.9 inches (75 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Chattanooga 63°F (17°C) 
    Lancaster 56°F (13°C)

Should I visit Chattanooga or Lancaster in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Chattanooga as well as Lancaster. Most visitors come to Chattanooga for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Lancaster because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

The weather in Lancaster can be very cold. Chattanooga can be very cold during winter. In January, Chattanooga is generally much warmer than Lancaster. Daily temperatures in Chattanooga average around 40°F (5°C), and Lancaster fluctuates around 30°F (-1°C).

In the winter, Chattanooga often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Lancaster. Chattanooga gets 145 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Lancaster receives 153 hours of full sun.

Chattanooga receives a lot of rain in the winter. Chattanooga usually gets more rain in January than Lancaster. Chattanooga gets 5.4 inches (137 mm) of rain, while Lancaster receives 2.8 inches (72 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Chattanooga 40°F (5°C) 
    Lancaster 30°F (-1°C)

Should I visit Chattanooga or Lancaster in the Spring?

Both Lancaster and Chattanooga are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Also, the natural beauty are the main draw to Lancaster this time of year.

Chattanooga is a little warmer than Lancaster in the spring. The daily temperature in Chattanooga averages around 62°F (17°C) in April, and Lancaster fluctuates around 53°F (12°C).

It's quite sunny in Lancaster. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Chattanooga. Chattanooga usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Lancaster during spring. Chattanooga gets 243 hours of sunny skies, while Lancaster receives 237 hours of full sun in the spring.

It's quite rainy in Chattanooga. In April, Chattanooga usually receives more rain than Lancaster. Chattanooga gets 4.4 inches (112 mm) of rain, while Lancaster receives 3.2 inches (82 mm) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Chattanooga 62°F (17°C) 
    Lancaster 53°F (12°C)

Typical Weather for Lancaster and Chattanooga

Chattanooga Lancaster
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 40°F (5°C) 5.4 inches (137 mm) 30°F (-1°C) 2.8 inches (72 mm)
Feb 44°F (7°C) 5.2 inches (132 mm) 33°F (0°C) 2.9 inches (75 mm)
Mar 53°F (12°C) 5.6 inches (143 mm) 42°F (6°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm)
Apr 62°F (17°C) 4.4 inches (112 mm) 53°F (12°C) 3.2 inches (82 mm)
May 70°F (21°C) 3.4 inches (87 mm) 63°F (17°C) 4.3 inches (108 mm)
Jun 78°F (25°C) 3.7 inches (93 mm) 72°F (22°C) 3.9 inches (98 mm)
Jul 81°F (27°C) 5.2 inches (131 mm) 77°F (25°C) 3.6 inches (91 mm)
Aug 80°F (27°C) 3.2 inches (82 mm) 75°F (24°C) 3.3 inches (84 mm)
Sep 74°F (24°C) 3.7 inches (94 mm) 68°F (20°C) 3.5 inches (89 mm)
Oct 63°F (17°C) 3 inches (75 mm) 56°F (13°C) 2.9 inches (75 mm)
Nov 53°F (12°C) 3.9 inches (100 mm) 46°F (8°C) 3.5 inches (90 mm)
Dec 44°F (7°C) 5.2 inches (133 mm) 35°F (2°C) 3.2 inches (82 mm)