A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Chattanooga vs. Redwood National Park for Hiking, Backpackers, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Chattanooga or Redwood National Park?

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

Should I visit Chattanooga or Redwood National Park? 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. Other popular activities here include food, hiking, and shopping.

Redwood National Park

Redwood National Park is a monumental, grand, and impressive park. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. Other popular activities here include beaches and hiking.

Chattanooga and Redwood National Park: Pros and Cons

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


Is there more to do in Chattanooga or Redwood National Park?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Chattanooga. Although Chattanooga and Redwood National Park are popular destinations, Chattanooga has more sights and attractions for tourists. Chattanooga is very popular for its museums, food, nightlife, and shopping, while Redwood National Park attracts visitors for its beaches, hiking, and impressive beauty. Redwood National Park is more touristy than Chattanooga and is known for being the home of the world's tallest trees. Chattanooga is famous for it's hikes, railways, and nearby natural areas. It is also well known for Rock City.

How is Chattanooga different from Redwood National Park?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Redwood National Park 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 Redwood National Park?

Chattanooga
Redwood National Park

Chattanooga is a good destination for its museums and landmarks. However, Redwood National Park is not particularly known for its historical sights.

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.

If you're looking to pass the time, head to a museum or historic sight in Redwood National Park. There is little in the form of museums, but you can visit the Thomas H. Kuchel Visitor Center on the south side of the park and see exhibits about Yurok culture and the area's ecology.


Is the Food Better in Chattanooga or Redwood National Park? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Chattanooga
Redwood National Park

Chattanooga is a good destination for its restaurant scene. However, Redwood National Park is not particularly known for its local flavors and cuisine.

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.

While Redwood National Park is not famous for its food, you'll find what you need there. There are no dining or grocery options within the park but there are some options just outside the park.

Is Chattanooga or Redwood National Park Better for Nightlife?

Chattanooga
Redwood National Park

Chattanooga is a good destination for its evening party scene. However, Redwood National Park is not particularly known for nightlife.

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.

The nightlife scene is quiet in Redwood National Park The laid back setting offers little in the form of nightlife.

Is Chattanooga or Redwood National Park Better for Beaches?

Chattanooga
Redwood National Park

Redwood National Park is a popular place for the beach. However, Chattanooga is not a beach destination.

Redwood National Park is a good option for a beach vacation. The park runs along the Pacific coastline and there are 70 miles of coastal trail in the park. Beaches are rugged and sandy and favorite sections include Gold Bluff Beach, Crescent Beach, and Enderts Beach, which has great tidal pools.

Chattanooga is not a beach destination.


Is Chattanooga or Redwood National Park Better for Hiking?

Chattanooga
Redwood National Park

Redwood National Park is an unbeatable place for its hiking experiences. Also, Chattanooga is still popular, but not quite as popular for hiking.

People visit Redwood National Park specifically for its hiking, as the natural beauty is well-known. Hikes range from coastal trails to world-renowned hikes through the redwoods. You'll feel humbled in the presence of these grand and majestic trees. Several of the most well-known hikes include Fern Canyon, the Cathedral Trees Trail, and Redwood Creek Trail.

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.

Is the Shopping Better in Chattanooga or Redwood National Park?

Chattanooga
Redwood National Park

Chattanooga is a good destination for its shopping areas. However, Redwood National Park is not particularly known for shopping.

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.

Shopping in Redwood National Park can be found for those interested. You'll find park stores at the visitor centers if you want to pick up a small gift or souvenir.

Is Chattanooga or Redwood National Park Better for Families?

Chattanooga
Redwood National Park

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

Redwood National Park is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. There are plenty of kid-friendly hikes in the park and the kids will love exploring the varied landscapes and diverse ecosystems. Less than a mile long, Fern Canyon is the perfect hike for little kids and it's not-to-be-missed. Cathedral Trees Trail is three miles, and also a highlight of any trip to the park.

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 Redwood National Park Better for Couples?

Chattanooga
Redwood National Park

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

Couples visit Redwood National Park frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. There are historic lodges that make for a romantic getaway. You can fill your days with hikes through magical landscapes and breathtaking settings surrounded by the impressive redwoods.

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 Redwood National Park Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Chattanooga
Redwood National Park

Redwood National Park is an unbeatable place for backpackers. However, Chattanooga is a city with minimal options for backpackers and budget travelers.

Redwood National Park is a very popular park to visit for backpackers. There are miles of backcountry trails that let you can explore the park in relative peace and solitude. This is an amazing way to experience the park, but do make sure you purchase a permit in advance.

Chattanooga is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. It's proximity to the mountains and diverse outdoor activities make this an under-rated destination for many backpackers.

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

Chattanooga
Redwood National Park

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

Many visitors use the public transit system 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 Redwood National Park. There's no public transportation within the park.


Is Chattanooga or Redwood National Park a more walkable city?

Chattanooga
Redwood National Park

Chattanooga is well known for its ease of walking around. However, Redwood National Park is not particularly 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.

Redwood National Park is not a very walkable city. The park is large and spread out, so you'll need a car to get around.

For even more information, also check out Is Chattanooga Worth Visiting? and Is Redwood National Park Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Redwood National Park or Chattanooga?

How long in Chattanooga or Redwood National Park?

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

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


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

One day in Chattanooga or Redwood National Park?

In Chattanooga, you'll find shopping and museums. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

Visitors enjoy the when visiting the impressive park of Redwood National Park. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Most people visit for the hiking. 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 Redwood National Park?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Chattanooga. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this city. It offers something for everyone.

Visitors enjoy the when visiting the monumental destination of Redwood National Park. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. This park offers something for everyone. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.


Five days in Chattanooga or Redwood National Park?

Chattanooga is a fun place to experience. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Visitors enjoy the when visiting the impressive park of Redwood National Park. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. 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 Redwood National Park?

You'll find food and shopping around the bustling destination of Chattanooga. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

Many people enjoy the when visiting Redwood National Park. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. Most people visit for the hiking. 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, Redwood National Park 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 Redwood National Park is $111. 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 Redwood National Park in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Chattanooga $92
    Redwood National Park $44
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Chattanooga $184
    Redwood National Park $88
Compare Hotels in Chattanooga and Redwood National Park

Looking for a hotel in Chattanooga or Redwood National Park? 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 Redwood National Park


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
    Redwood National Park $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 Redwood National Park?

Prices for flights to both Redwood National Park 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
    Redwood National Park $33

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
    Redwood National Park $33

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
    Chattanooga $24
    Redwood National Park $11


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

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



When is the best time to visit Chattanooga or Redwood National Park?

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 Redwood National Park in the Summer?

Both Redwood National Park and Chattanooga are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Chattanooga for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Redwood National Park because of the beaches, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences.

Chattanooga is much warmer than Redwood National Park in the summer. The daily temperature in Chattanooga averages around 81°F (27°C) in July, and Redwood National Park fluctuates around 57°F (14°C).

It's quite sunny in Redwood National Park. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Chattanooga. Chattanooga usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Redwood National Park during summer. Chattanooga gets 265 hours of sunny skies, while Redwood National Park receives 274 hours of full sun in the summer.

It's quite rainy in Chattanooga. In July, Chattanooga usually receives more rain than Redwood National Park. Chattanooga gets 5.2 inches (131 mm) of rain, while Redwood National Park receives 0.1 inches (3 mm) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Chattanooga 81°F (27°C) 
    Redwood National Park 57°F (14°C)

Should I visit Chattanooga or Redwood National Park in the Autumn?

Both Redwood National Park and Chattanooga during the autumn are popular places to visit. The autumn months attract visitors to Chattanooga because of the hiking trails and the shopping scene. Furthermore, the hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Redwood National Park this time of year.

In the autumn, Chattanooga is a little warmer than Redwood National Park. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Chattanooga in October average around 63°F (17°C), and Redwood National Park averages at about 55°F (13°C).

It's quite sunny in Chattanooga. In the autumn, Chattanooga often gets more sunshine than Redwood National Park. Chattanooga gets 211 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Redwood National Park receives 177 hours of full sun.

Chattanooga usually gets more rain in October than Redwood National Park. Chattanooga gets 3 inches (75 mm) of rain, while Redwood National Park receives 2.7 inches (68 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Chattanooga 63°F (17°C) 
    Redwood National Park 55°F (13°C)

Should I visit Chattanooga or Redwood National Park in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Chattanooga and Redwood National Park. 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 January, Chattanooga is generally much colder than Redwood National Park. Daily temperatures in Chattanooga average around 40°F (5°C), and Redwood National Park fluctuates around 48°F (9°C).

Chattanooga usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Redwood National Park during winter. Chattanooga gets 145 hours of sunny skies, while Redwood National Park receives 135 hours of full sun in the winter.

Redwood National Park receives a lot of rain in the winter. Chattanooga gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In January, Chattanooga usually receives less rain than Redwood National Park. Chattanooga gets 5.4 inches (137 mm) of rain, while Redwood National Park receives 6 inches (152 mm) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Chattanooga 40°F (5°C) 
    Redwood National Park 48°F (9°C)

Should I visit Chattanooga or Redwood National Park in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Chattanooga as well as Redwood National Park. Additionally, many visitors come to Redwood National Park in the spring for the beaches and the natural beauty.

Chattanooga is much warmer than Redwood National Park in the spring. The daily temperature in Chattanooga averages around 62°F (17°C) in April, and Redwood National Park fluctuates around 50°F (10°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Redwood National Park. 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 Redwood National Park. Chattanooga gets 243 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Redwood National Park receives 254 hours of full sun.

Chattanooga receives a lot of rain in the spring. Chattanooga usually gets more rain in April than Redwood National Park. Chattanooga gets 4.4 inches (112 mm) of rain, while Redwood National Park receives 2.9 inches (73 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Chattanooga 62°F (17°C) 
    Redwood National Park 50°F (10°C)

Typical Weather for Redwood National Park and Chattanooga

Chattanooga Redwood National Park
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 40°F (5°C) 5.4 inches (137 mm) 48°F (9°C) 6 inches (152 mm)
Feb 44°F (7°C) 5.2 inches (132 mm) 49°F (10°C) 4.7 inches (120 mm)
Mar 53°F (12°C) 5.6 inches (143 mm) 50°F (10°C) 5.3 inches (135 mm)
Apr 62°F (17°C) 4.4 inches (112 mm) 50°F (10°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm)
May 70°F (21°C) 3.4 inches (87 mm) 53°F (12°C) 1.5 inches (37 mm)
Jun 78°F (25°C) 3.7 inches (93 mm) 56°F (13°C) 0.5 inches (13 mm)
Jul 81°F (27°C) 5.2 inches (131 mm) 57°F (14°C) 0.1 inches (3 mm)
Aug 80°F (27°C) 3.2 inches (82 mm) 58°F (14°C) 0.5 inches (12 mm)
Sep 74°F (24°C) 3.7 inches (94 mm) 58°F (14°C) 0.9 inches (23 mm)
Oct 63°F (17°C) 3 inches (75 mm) 55°F (13°C) 2.7 inches (68 mm)
Nov 53°F (12°C) 3.9 inches (100 mm) 52°F (11°C) 6.5 inches (164 mm)
Dec 44°F (7°C) 5.2 inches (133 mm) 49°F (9°C) 6 inches (153 mm)


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