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

Should you visit Chattanooga or Lewisburg?

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

Should I visit Chattanooga or Lewisburg? 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 outdoorsy, thriving, and bustling city. It's also known for hiking, shopping, and museums.

Lewisburg

Lewisburg is a historical, quaint, and charming town. Don't miss this spot, as it's a charming small town with plenty of activities. Other popular activities here include shopping and museums.

Chattanooga and Lewisburg: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good public transit
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with backpackers
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Scenic old town
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for students
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less popular with couples
  • Less popular with backpackers
  • Public transit not as usable


Is there more to do in Chattanooga or Lewisburg?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Chattanooga than Lewisburg, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Chattanooga is better known for its food, nightlife, and hiking, while Lewisburg is more popular for its historical sights and small town charm. Chattanooga is more touristy than Lewisburg and is known for it's hikes, railways, and nearby natural areas. Also, Chattanooga is famous for Rock City. Lewisburg is well known for its historical charm and friendly personality.

How is Chattanooga different from Lewisburg?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Chattanooga
Lewisburg

For an educational experience, head to a museum or a notable sight in either Chattanooga or Lewisburg.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Chattanooga. 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.

Lewisburg is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. There are several cultural and historical museums in town as well as a fun children's museum.


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

Chattanooga
Lewisburg

Chattanooga is a popular place for its restaurant scene. However, Lewisburg is not particularly known for its local flavors and cuisine.

Chattanooga offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. 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.

You'll find the standard options when it comes to food in Lewisburg. There are bistros and cafes as well as all the standard chain restaurants.

Is Chattanooga or Lewisburg Better for Nightlife?

Chattanooga
Lewisburg

Chattanooga is a popular place for nightlife. However, Lewisburg is not particularly known for nightlife and partying.

Chattanooga has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. 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.

Lewisburg doesn't have the most active nightlife scene. While there are some bars, most people don't come here for the nightlife.

Is Chattanooga or Lewisburg Better for its Old Town?

Chattanooga
Lewisburg

Lewisburg is a popular place for its historic old town charm. However, Chattanooga does not have a historic old town.

Lewisburg offers a nice historic old town area. There are a huge number of historical buildings in the downtown area that contribute to the town's charm and character.

Chattanooga does not have a historic old town.


Is Chattanooga or Lewisburg Better for Hiking?

Chattanooga
Lewisburg

Chattanooga is well known for its hiking experiences. However, Lewisburg is not a hiking destination.

You'll find a nice variety of hiking trails around Chattanooga. 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.

Lewisburg is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Chattanooga or Lewisburg?

Chattanooga
Lewisburg

Shopping is a popular activity in both Lewisburg and Chattanooga.

Many visitors go to Chattanooga to go shopping. 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.

Plenty of visitors enjoy shopping while in Lewisburg. There are some quaint local shops that sell local items and unique art works.

Is Chattanooga or Lewisburg Better for Families?

Chattanooga
Lewisburg

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Chattanooga or Lewisburg.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Chattanooga. 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.

Lewisburg offers lots of family activities. The Lewisburg Children's Museum is worth checking out, as is Reptiland and the many different indoor and outdoor play areas.


Is Chattanooga or Lewisburg Better for Couples?

Chattanooga
Lewisburg

Chattanooga is a popular place for romance. However, Lewisburg is not particularly known for its romantic activities.

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.

Most people don't think of Lewisburg as a couple's destination. There are several quaint inns and beautiful gardens that you can explore. There are also spas and restaurants where you can enjoy a nice meal.

Is Chattanooga or Lewisburg Better for Students?

Chattanooga
Lewisburg

Lewisburg is a popular place for students. However, Chattanooga is not popular with students.

Lewisburg is popular with students. Many students enjoy living here while they attend Bucknell University.

Chattanooga is not popular with students.

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

Chattanooga
Lewisburg

Chattanooga is well known for its public transit. However, Lewisburg is not particularly known for times when you don't have a car.

Visitors to Chattanooga can move around easily with public transportation. 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 mostly limited in Lewisburg. Public transportation in the area is limited.


Is Chattanooga or Lewisburg a more walkable city?

Chattanooga
Lewisburg

Chattanooga is well known for its walkability. Also, Lewisburg is still popular, but not quite as popular for its high level of walkability.

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

Lewisburg is a somewhat walkable place. It's small with a relatively compact downtown.

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

Should I spend more time in Lewisburg or Chattanooga?

How long in Chattanooga or Lewisburg?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Chattanooga or Lewisburg to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Chattanooga than Lewisburg because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Chattanooga, and 1-2 days is enough time in Lewisburg.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Chattanooga than Lewisburg 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 Lewisburg? Ideal Length of Stay
    Chattanooga 2-3 
    Lewisburg 1-2

One day in Chattanooga or Lewisburg?

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 shopping and museums when visiting the quaint town of Lewisburg. 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.

A weekend in Chattanooga or Lewisburg?

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 museums and shopping when visiting the historical destination of Lewisburg. 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 Lewisburg?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the bustling 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 charming town of Lewisburg offers shopping and museums. 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 Lewisburg?

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 museums and shopping when visiting Lewisburg. 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 Cruise Tours and Packages in United States of America, The Best Cultural Tours in United States of America, The Best Photography Tours in United States of America, and The Best Camping Tours in United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Lewisburg 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 Lewisburg is $136. 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 Lewisburg in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Chattanooga $92
    Lewisburg $70
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Chattanooga $184
    Lewisburg $140
Compare Hotels in Chattanooga and Lewisburg

Looking for a hotel in Chattanooga or Lewisburg? 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 Lewisburg


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.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Chattanooga $35
    Lewisburg $53
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 Lewisburg?

Prices for flights to both Lewisburg 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
    Lewisburg $34

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.
    Chattanooga $52
    Lewisburg $18

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
  • Chattanooga Guided Walking Tour: $23
  • ChattaBOOga Ghost Walk Tour in Chattanooga: $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
    Chattanooga $24
    Lewisburg $12


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Chattanooga and Lewisburg, we can see that Chattanooga is more expensive. And not only is Lewisburg much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Lewisburg would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Lewisburg 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 Lewisburg.

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


Which is Bigger, Chattanooga or Lewisburg?

Chattanooga has a larger population, and is about 30 times larger than the population of Lewisburg. When comparing the sizes of Chattanooga and Lewisburg, 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 Lewisburg?

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 Chattanooga or Lewisburg in the Summer?

Both Lewisburg and Chattanooga are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The summer months attract visitors to Chattanooga because of the hiking and the family-friendly experiences. Also, the small town charm and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Lewisburg this time of year.

In the summer, Chattanooga is a little warmer than Lewisburg. Typically, the summer temperatures in Chattanooga in July average around 81°F (27°C), and Lewisburg averages at about 74°F (24°C).

It's quite sunny in Lewisburg. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Chattanooga. Chattanooga usually receives less sunshine than Lewisburg during summer. Chattanooga gets 265 hours of sunny skies, while Lewisburg receives 310 hours of full sun in the summer.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Lewisburg. It's quite rainy in Chattanooga. In July, Chattanooga usually receives more rain than Lewisburg. Chattanooga gets 5.2 inches (131 mm) of rain, while Lewisburg receives 4 inches (101 mm) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Chattanooga 81°F (27°C) 
    Lewisburg 74°F (24°C)

Should I visit Chattanooga or Lewisburg in the Autumn?

Both Lewisburg and Chattanooga during the autumn are popular places to visit. The hiking trails and the shopping scene are the main draw to Chattanooga this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Lewisburg for the shopping scene and the small town atmosphere.

In October, Chattanooga is generally a little warmer than Lewisburg. Daily temperatures in Chattanooga average around 63°F (17°C), and Lewisburg fluctuates around 54°F (12°C).

It's quite sunny in Chattanooga. In the autumn, Chattanooga often gets more sunshine than Lewisburg. Chattanooga gets 211 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Lewisburg receives 194 hours of full sun.

Chattanooga usually gets less rain in October than Lewisburg. Chattanooga gets 3 inches (75 mm) of rain, while Lewisburg receives 3.3 inches (84 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Chattanooga 63°F (17°C) 
    Lewisburg 54°F (12°C)

Should I visit Chattanooga or Lewisburg in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Chattanooga and Lewisburg. Many travelers come to Chattanooga for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Furthermore, many visitors come to Lewisburg in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Lewisburg can get quite cold in the winter. Be prepared for some very cold days in Chattanooga. Chattanooga is much warmer than Lewisburg in the winter. The daily temperature in Chattanooga averages around 40°F (5°C) in January, and Lewisburg fluctuates around 27°F (-3°C).

Chattanooga usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Lewisburg during winter. Chattanooga gets 145 hours of sunny skies, while Lewisburg receives 153 hours of full sun in the winter.

Chattanooga gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In January, Chattanooga usually receives more rain than Lewisburg. Chattanooga gets 5.4 inches (137 mm) of rain, while Lewisburg receives 2.5 inches (65 mm) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Chattanooga 40°F (5°C) 
    Lewisburg 27°F (-3°C)

Should I visit Chattanooga or Lewisburg in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Chattanooga as well as Lewisburg. Additionally, most visitors come to Lewisburg for the small town charm during these months.

In the spring, Chattanooga is much warmer than Lewisburg. Typically, the spring temperatures in Chattanooga in April average around 62°F (17°C), and Lewisburg averages at about 51°F (11°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Lewisburg. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Chattanooga this time of the year. In the spring, Chattanooga often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Lewisburg. Chattanooga gets 243 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Lewisburg receives 237 hours of full sun.

Chattanooga receives a lot of rain in the spring. Chattanooga usually gets more rain in April than Lewisburg. Chattanooga gets 4.4 inches (112 mm) of rain, while Lewisburg receives 3.2 inches (82 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Chattanooga 62°F (17°C) 
    Lewisburg 51°F (11°C)

Typical Weather for Lewisburg and Chattanooga

Chattanooga Lewisburg
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 40°F (5°C) 5.4 inches (137 mm) 27°F (-3°C) 2.5 inches (65 mm)
Feb 44°F (7°C) 5.2 inches (132 mm) 30°F (-1°C) 2.8 inches (70 mm)
Mar 53°F (12°C) 5.6 inches (143 mm) 40°F (5°C) 3.2 inches (81 mm)
Apr 62°F (17°C) 4.4 inches (112 mm) 51°F (11°C) 3.2 inches (82 mm)
May 70°F (21°C) 3.4 inches (87 mm) 62°F (16°C) 3.9 inches (98 mm)
Jun 78°F (25°C) 3.7 inches (93 mm) 70°F (21°C) 4.3 inches (110 mm)
Jul 81°F (27°C) 5.2 inches (131 mm) 74°F (24°C) 4 inches (101 mm)
Aug 80°F (27°C) 3.2 inches (82 mm) 73°F (23°C) 3.4 inches (86 mm)
Sep 74°F (24°C) 3.7 inches (94 mm) 65°F (19°C) 3.4 inches (86 mm)
Oct 63°F (17°C) 3 inches (75 mm) 54°F (12°C) 3.3 inches (84 mm)
Nov 53°F (12°C) 3.9 inches (100 mm) 44°F (7°C) 3.7 inches (95 mm)
Dec 44°F (7°C) 5.2 inches (133 mm) 33°F (1°C) 3 inches (77 mm)