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

Should you visit Chattanooga or Newport?

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

Should I visit Chattanooga or Newport? 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 shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Newport

Newport is a historical, charming, and coastal town. Don't miss this spot, as it's a charming small town with plenty of activities. It offers plenty of beauty for visitors. Other popular activities here include beaches, shopping, and museums.

Chattanooga and Newport: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with couples
  • Less popular with backpackers
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Popular beach
  • Scenic old town
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with backpackers


Is there more to do in Chattanooga or Newport?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Newport. Although Chattanooga and Newport are popular destinations, Newport has more sights and attractions for tourists. Newport is very popular for its museums, food, beaches, historical sights, shopping, small town charm, and impressive beauty, while Chattanooga attracts visitors for its hiking. Newport is more touristy than Chattanooga and is popular for its sailing regattas, its mansions along Bellevue Avenue, and its maritime history. It is also well known for Thames Street. Chattanooga is famous for it's hikes, railways, and nearby natural areas.

How is Chattanooga different from Newport?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Chattanooga
Newport

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

Newport offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. The historic mansions and local museums educate visitors on the town's maritime past and colonial roots. Some of the more popular places to visit include The Breakers, The Elms Mansion, The Marble House, and Chateau-sur-mer Mansion.

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 Newport? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Chattanooga
Newport

Newport 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 Newport is an experience not to be missed. Find a waterfront restaurant and enjoy fresh seafood and a charming atmosphere. Many restaurants are influenced by the town's Portuguese and Irish roots. You'll find classic pubs as well as brunch cafes and traditional taverns.

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 Chattanooga or Newport Better for Nightlife?

Chattanooga
Newport

It's hard to distinguish whether Chattanooga or Newport has a better nightlife scene.

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.

If you're looking for night time activities Newport has a few options to choose from. There's a lively atmosphere in the evening with many pubs, taverns, and bars that keep the energy high.

Is Chattanooga or Newport Better for Beaches?

Chattanooga
Newport

Newport is a great destination for the beach. However, Chattanooga is not a beach destination.

Newport is considered a top beach destination. Tucked in along the rocky coastline are many beautiful sandy beaches. You'll find popular and active beaches where you can lounge in a chair and people watch, as well as more secluded spots where you can enjoy a more peaceful setting. The largest beach is Easton's Beach (also known as First Beach). Surfers and boaters enjoy Sachuest Beach (or Second Beach), and a less popular, but very rewarding beach is also King Park Beach.

Chattanooga is not a beach destination.


Is Chattanooga or Newport Better for its Old Town?

Chattanooga
Newport

Newport 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 Newport. The Historic District is filled with colonial buildings and impressive mansions. There are cobblestone streets and a charming loop through the town's Old Quarter.

Chattanooga does not have a historic old town.

Is Chattanooga or Newport Better for Hiking?

Chattanooga
Newport

Chattanooga is a very popular place for its hiking trails. However, Newport is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors explore the nearby hiking trails while visiting 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.

Newport is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Chattanooga or Newport?

Chattanooga
Newport

Newport 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 Newport. Walk along the charming cobblestone streets and pop in the many local boutiques and shops.

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 Newport Better for Families?

Chattanooga
Newport

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

Newport is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. For an educational and interactive experience, head to Save The Bay Exploration Center & Aquarium. The Norman Bird Sanctuary also has a lot of land and places to explore. Kids will enjoy a visit to the beach or running around Breton Point State Park as well. On a rainy day, Ryans Family Amusements is the perfect way to pass some time.

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 Newport Better for Couples?

Chattanooga
Newport

Newport is an unbeatable place for couples. Also, Chattanooga is still popular, but not quite as popular for romance.

Newport makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. It's a coastal town with a lot of charm that makes for a perfect romantic escape. Enjoy dining and shopping along Thames Street or take a walk along the coast. There are many local restaurants and evening activities for couples as well.

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 Newport Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Chattanooga
Newport

Chattanooga is a very popular place for times when you don't have a car. Also, Newport is not quite as popular, but is fairly good 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.

You'll find some public transit in Newport, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There are buses operated by RIPTA. You can visit most of the attractions in the downtown area by catching a ride on one of the classic green and gold hybrid trolley buses.


Is Chattanooga or Newport a more walkable city?

Chattanooga
Newport

Chattanooga and Newport both are great when exploring on foot.

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.

Newport is very walkable. The town's downtown are compact and fun to explore on foot. There is a nice concentration of shops, restaurants, hotels and sights.

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

Should I spend more time in Newport or Chattanooga?

How long in Chattanooga or Newport?

In either Chattanooga or Newport, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Newport than Chattanooga because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Chattanooga, and 2-5 days is enough time in Newport.

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

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

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


  • How many days in Chattanooga or Newport? Ideal Length of Stay
    Chattanooga 2-3 
    Newport 2-5

One day in Chattanooga or Newport?

In Chattanooga, you'll find nightlife and food. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. This city offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

Visitors enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the seaside town of Newport. It's also a great beach destination, too. 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 Newport?

In Chattanooga, you'll find food and shopping. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Chattanooga has to offer.

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the charming destination of Newport. 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.


Five days in Chattanooga or Newport?

Chattanooga is a great place to explore. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

Visitors enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the coastal town of Newport. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. Many people spend five days here.If you enjoy all that's offered here, then five days is just the right amount of time to spend here. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

A week in Chattanooga or Newport?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Chattanooga. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Chattanooga. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Newport. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Most people come for the beaches. 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, Newport 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 Newport is $159. 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 Newport in more detail.



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

Looking for a hotel in Chattanooga or Newport? 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 Newport


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 Newport Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Chattanooga $35
    Newport $36
Typical Local Transportation Prices in Chattanooga

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


  • Chattanooga Zoo (for 2)
    $16

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Newport

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

  • Private Transfer from Newport Cruise Port to Boston city hotels: $88
  • Private Transfer from Newport Port to Boston Logan Airport (BOS) : $88
  • Private Transfer from Newport Port to Providence Airport (PVD): $49
  • Private Transfer from Newport Port to Providence city Hotels: $61

Is it cheaper to fly into Chattanooga or Newport?

Prices for flights to both Newport 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
    Newport $45

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 Newport

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

  • Newport Neighborhood Food Tour: $89

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Chattanooga $52
    Newport $17

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
  • 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 Ghosts of the Misty Mountains Walking Tour: $26
  • 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 Newport

For Newport, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • Downtown Historic Self-Guided Audio Walking Tour: $6.50
  • Newport Downtown Historic Audio APP Self Guided Smart Phone Tour: $6.75
  • Newport Cliff Walk: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $7.99
  • Newport's Cliff Walk: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $7.99
  • Newport, Rhode Island: Cliff Walk Gilded Age Audio Tour: $7.99
  • Cliff Walk Self-Guided Walking Tour: $8.49
  • Newport Cliff Walk - Legends of the Gilded Age GPS Guided Audio Tour: $8.99
  • Ocean Drive Historic District: A Newport Self-Guided Driving Tour: $9.99
  • Newport Cliff Walk Self-Guided Walking Tour: $9.99
  • Ocean Drive Historic District Self-Guided Tour: $9.99
  • Discover Newport's Grandeur: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $11
  • Newport, Rhode Island: Scenic Self-Driving Audio Tour: $13

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Chattanooga $24
    Newport $14


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


Which is Bigger, Chattanooga or Newport?

Chattanooga has a larger population, and is about 6 times larger than the population of Newport. When comparing the sizes of Chattanooga and Newport, 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 Newport?

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 Newport in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Chattanooga as well as Newport. The hiking and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Chattanooga this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Newport for the beaches, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences.

Chattanooga is a little warmer than Newport in the summer. The daily temperature in Chattanooga averages around 81°F (27°C) in July, and Newport fluctuates around 73°F (23°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Newport. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Chattanooga this time of the year. In the summer, Chattanooga often gets less sunshine than Newport. Chattanooga gets 265 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Newport receives 293 hours of full sun.

Chattanooga receives a lot of rain in the summer. Chattanooga usually gets more rain in July than Newport. Chattanooga gets 5.2 inches (131 mm) of rain, while Newport receives 2.8 inches (72 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Chattanooga 81°F (27°C) 
    Newport 73°F (23°C)

Should I visit Chattanooga or Newport in the Autumn?

Both Newport and Chattanooga are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Chattanooga for the hiking trails and the shopping scene. Also, many visitors come to Newport in the autumn for the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Chattanooga is a little warmer than Newport. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Chattanooga in October average around 63°F (17°C), and Newport averages at about 53°F (12°C).

It's quite sunny in Newport. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Chattanooga. Chattanooga usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Newport during autumn. Chattanooga gets 211 hours of sunny skies, while Newport receives 211 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Chattanooga usually receives less rain than Newport. Chattanooga gets 3 inches (75 mm) of rain, while Newport receives 3.3 inches (83 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Chattanooga 63°F (17°C) 
    Newport 53°F (12°C)

Should I visit Chattanooga or Newport in the Winter?

Both Newport and Chattanooga during the winter are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Chattanooga in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Furthermore, most visitors come to Newport for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Newport can be very cold during winter. Chattanooga can get quite cold in the winter. In January, Chattanooga is generally much warmer than Newport. Daily temperatures in Chattanooga average around 40°F (5°C), and Newport fluctuates around 28°F (-2°C).

In the winter, Chattanooga often gets less sunshine than Newport. Chattanooga gets 145 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Newport receives 170 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Chattanooga. Chattanooga usually gets more rain in January than Newport. Chattanooga gets 5.4 inches (137 mm) of rain, while Newport receives 3.5 inches (89 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Chattanooga 40°F (5°C) 
    Newport 28°F (-2°C)

Should I visit Chattanooga or Newport in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Chattanooga and Newport. Furthermore, the spring months attract visitors to Newport because of the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty.

Chattanooga is much warmer than Newport in the spring. The daily temperature in Chattanooga averages around 62°F (17°C) in April, and Newport fluctuates around 48°F (9°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Newport this time of the year. In Chattanooga, it's very sunny this time of the year. Chattanooga usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Newport during spring. Chattanooga gets 243 hours of sunny skies, while Newport receives 225 hours of full sun in the spring.

Chattanooga gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In April, Chattanooga usually receives more rain than Newport. Chattanooga gets 4.4 inches (112 mm) of rain, while Newport receives 3.7 inches (94 mm) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Chattanooga 62°F (17°C) 
    Newport 48°F (9°C)

Typical Weather for Newport and Chattanooga

Chattanooga Newport
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 40°F (5°C) 5.4 inches (137 mm) 28°F (-2°C) 3.5 inches (89 mm)
Feb 44°F (7°C) 5.2 inches (132 mm) 30°F (-1°C) 3.5 inches (88 mm)
Mar 53°F (12°C) 5.6 inches (143 mm) 38°F (3°C) 4 inches (101 mm)
Apr 62°F (17°C) 4.4 inches (112 mm) 48°F (9°C) 3.7 inches (94 mm)
May 70°F (21°C) 3.4 inches (87 mm) 58°F (15°C) 3.5 inches (89 mm)
Jun 78°F (25°C) 3.7 inches (93 mm) 67°F (20°C) 2.6 inches (67 mm)
Jul 81°F (27°C) 5.2 inches (131 mm) 73°F (23°C) 2.8 inches (72 mm)
Aug 80°F (27°C) 3.2 inches (82 mm) 72°F (22°C) 3.9 inches (99 mm)
Sep 74°F (24°C) 3.7 inches (94 mm) 64°F (18°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm)
Oct 63°F (17°C) 3 inches (75 mm) 53°F (12°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm)
Nov 53°F (12°C) 3.9 inches (100 mm) 44°F (7°C) 4.5 inches (115 mm)
Dec 44°F (7°C) 5.2 inches (133 mm) 33°F (0°C) 4.1 inches (105 mm)