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

Should you visit Chattanooga or Williamsburg?

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

Should I visit Chattanooga or Williamsburg? 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.

Williamsburg

Williamsburg is a quaint, well-preserved, and historic town. It offers plenty of beauty for visitors. Other popular activities here include museums, food, and shopping.

Chattanooga and Williamsburg: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good for hiking
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good public transit
  • Very walkable
Things to Consider
  • Less family-friendly
  • Less popular with backpackers
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Scenic old town
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for students
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 Williamsburg?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Williamsburg. Although Chattanooga and Williamsburg are popular destinations, Williamsburg has more sights and attractions for tourists. Williamsburg is very popular for its museums, food, historical sights, shopping, and impressive beauty, while Chattanooga attracts visitors for its nightlife and hiking. Williamsburg is more touristy than Chattanooga and is known for its historic and colonial charm, its award winning amusement parks, and its historical reenactments. It is also well known for Colonial Williamsburg. Chattanooga is famous for it's hikes, railways, and nearby natural areas.

How is Chattanooga different from Williamsburg?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Chattanooga
Williamsburg

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

Williamsburg offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. Colonial Williamsburg is like a living museum with reenactments and historic buildings that date back to the colonial days. In addition to the historic area, there are folk art museums and other historic sights in the area.

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 Williamsburg? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Chattanooga
Williamsburg

Williamsburg 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 Williamsburg is an experience not to be missed. Head to Historic Williamsburg if you want to try some colonial classics. There are historic taverns that maintain their old world charm and serve dishes such as peanut soup and stewed beef. Around town you'll also find casual restaurants with pizza, macaroni and cheese, and burgers.

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 Williamsburg Better for Nightlife?

Chattanooga
Williamsburg

Chattanooga is a good destination for its evening party scene. However, Williamsburg is a town with minimal options 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.

Williamsburg doesn't have the most active nightlife scene. Despite its student population, there isn't much of a nightlife scene in town. There are restaurants where you can enjoy fine wine or cocktails, but nightclubs and bars are limited.

Is Chattanooga or Williamsburg Better for its Old Town?

Chattanooga
Williamsburg

Williamsburg is an unbeatable place for its historic old town charm. However, Chattanooga does not have a historic old town.

With a famous historical old-town, Williamsburg offers plenty to see. Colonial Williamsburg is an impressively maintained area with museums, shops, and taverns. There are live reenactments of historic events as well as blacksmiths, wig shops, and carriage rides. You can wander around without a ticket, but for access to many parts of the historic area you'll need to purchase a pass.

Chattanooga does not have a historic old town.


Is Chattanooga or Williamsburg Better for Hiking?

Chattanooga
Williamsburg

Chattanooga is a great destination for its hiking experiences. However, Williamsburg 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.

Williamsburg is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Chattanooga or Williamsburg?

Chattanooga
Williamsburg

Williamsburg 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 Williamsburg. Charming shops both in the historic area and just outside sell unique items that reflect the city's past. There are souvenirs, food items, cookbooks, and home decor to choose from.

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 Williamsburg Better for Families?

Chattanooga
Williamsburg

Williamsburg is an unbeatable place for its family-friendly activities. Also, Chattanooga is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

As it has a large number of activities for kids, Williamsburg is a very family-friendly destination. Older kids will appreciate the history in the area. For kids of all ages there are a number of amusement parks and water parks such as Great Wolf Lodge, Busch Gardens, and the award winning Water Country USA.

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 Williamsburg Better for Couples?

Chattanooga
Williamsburg

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

Couples visit Williamsburg frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. Historic Williamsburg is filled with inns and charming restaurants that make this a beautiful destination for couples. There are quaint restaurants that serve colonial food and interesting southern shops with unique trinkets. You can also wander around the campus of William and Mary College.

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 Williamsburg Better for Students?

Chattanooga
Williamsburg

Williamsburg is an unbeatable place for students. However, Chattanooga is not popular with students.

Many students frequent Williamsburg. The College of William and Mary has a beautiful campus and students enjoy the charming atmosphere with colonial architecture around town. There are also good restaurants and a great collegiate vibe.

Chattanooga is not popular with students.

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

Chattanooga
Williamsburg

Chattanooga is a great destination for its public transit. However, Williamsburg is a town with minimal options 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 mostly limited in Williamsburg. There are buses around town, and they offer access to Historic Williamsburg, but for most places you'll need to have your own car.


Is Chattanooga or Williamsburg a more walkable city?

Chattanooga
Williamsburg

Chattanooga is a great destination for its ease of walking around. However, Williamsburg is a town with minimal options 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.

Williamsburg is generally not a very walkable city. Historic Williamsburg and the neighborhoods around the College of William and Mary are all walkable, but if you plan to visit the amusement parks then you'll absolutely need a car.

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

Should I spend more time in Williamsburg or Chattanooga?

How long in Chattanooga or Williamsburg?

It's fun to spend time in either Chattanooga or Williamsburg. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Williamsburg due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Chattanooga, and 2-4 days is enough time in Williamsburg.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Williamsburg 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 Williamsburg.


  • How many days in Chattanooga or Williamsburg? Ideal Length of Stay
    Chattanooga 2-3 
    Williamsburg 2-4

One day in Chattanooga or Williamsburg?

In Chattanooga, many people enjoy the food and shopping that this thriving city offers. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the charming town of Williamsburg. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. 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 Williamsburg?

Chattanooga is a fun place to experience. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. So, a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

Visitors enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the well-preserved destination of Williamsburg. 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 Williamsburg?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the outdoorsy destination of Chattanooga. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days.

The historic town of Williamsburg offers museums and food. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. 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 Williamsburg?

Chattanooga is a popular place to visit. 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. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Many people enjoy the food and shopping when visiting Williamsburg. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. 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, Williamsburg 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 Williamsburg is $112. 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 Williamsburg in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Chattanooga $92
    Williamsburg $66
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Chattanooga $184
    Williamsburg $132
Compare Hotels in Chattanooga and Williamsburg

Looking for a hotel in Chattanooga or Williamsburg? 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 Williamsburg


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 Williamsburg Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Chattanooga $35
    Williamsburg $11
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 Williamsburg?

Prices for flights to both Williamsburg 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
    Williamsburg $31

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 Williamsburg

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Williamsburg.

  • Taste of Williamsburg Food Tour by Junket: $79
  • Guided Food Tour with Tastings: $84

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Chattanooga $52
    Williamsburg $34

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

Tours and Activities in Williamsburg

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

  • Scavenger Hunt Adventure in Williamsburg by Wacky Walks: $10
  • Scavenger Hunt Adventure Self-Guided City Game: $10
  • Colonial Self-Guided Walking Tour: $15
  • Colonial Williamsburg Self-Guided Audio Walking Tour: $15
  • Williamsburg East Ghost Tour: $16
  • Yorktown Battlefield Self-Guided Driving Tour: $17
  • The Original Ghosts of Williamsburg Tour: $20
  • The Original Ghost of Williamsburg Candlelight Walking Tour: $20
  • Scavenger Hunt Adventure in Williamsburg by Zombie Scavengers: $20
  • Colonial Christmas Walking Tour: $20
  • Yorktown Hallowed Ground Candlelight Walking Tour: $20
  • Colonial Williamsburg & Yorktown Self-Guided Audio Tour Bundle: $25

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Chattanooga $24
    Williamsburg -

Sample the Local Flavors in Williamsburg

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

  • Colonial Ghosts Boos and Brews Haunted Pub Crawl : $35
  • The Murder Tour and Pub Crawl: $48


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

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


Which is Bigger, Chattanooga or Williamsburg?

Chattanooga has a larger population, and is about 10 times larger than the population of Williamsburg. When comparing the sizes of Chattanooga and Williamsburg, 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 Williamsburg?

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 Williamsburg in the Summer?

Both Williamsburg 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 Williamsburg because of the family-friendly experiences.

Chattanooga is around the same temperature as Williamsburg in the summer. The daily temperature in Chattanooga averages around 81°F (27°C) in July, and Williamsburg fluctuates around 78°F (26°C).

It's quite sunny in Williamsburg. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Chattanooga. Chattanooga usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Williamsburg during summer. Chattanooga gets 265 hours of sunny skies, while Williamsburg receives 279 hours of full sun in the summer.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Williamsburg. It's quite rainy in Chattanooga. In July, Chattanooga usually receives more rain than Williamsburg. Chattanooga gets 5.2 inches (131 mm) of rain, while Williamsburg receives 4.7 inches (120 mm) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Chattanooga 81°F (27°C) 
    Williamsburg 78°F (26°C)

Should I visit Chattanooga or Williamsburg in the Autumn?

Both Williamsburg 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. Also, the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Williamsburg this time of year.

In the autumn, Chattanooga is around the same temperature as Williamsburg. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Chattanooga in October average around 63°F (17°C), and Williamsburg averages at about 61°F (16°C).

In Williamsburg, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Chattanooga. In the autumn, Chattanooga often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Williamsburg. Chattanooga gets 211 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Williamsburg receives 211 hours of full sun.

Chattanooga usually gets around the same amount of rain in October as Williamsburg. Chattanooga gets 3 inches (75 mm) of rain, while Williamsburg receives 2.8 inches (71 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Chattanooga 63°F (17°C) 
    Williamsburg 61°F (16°C)

Should I visit Chattanooga or Williamsburg in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Chattanooga and Williamsburg. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Chattanooga this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Williamsburg for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Williamsburg. It's quite cold in Chattanooga in the winter. In January, Chattanooga is generally a little warmer than Williamsburg. Daily temperatures in Chattanooga average around 40°F (5°C), and Williamsburg fluctuates around 38°F (4°C).

Chattanooga usually receives less sunshine than Williamsburg during winter. Chattanooga gets 145 hours of sunny skies, while Williamsburg receives 168 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 Williamsburg. Chattanooga gets 5.4 inches (137 mm) of rain, while Williamsburg receives 3.6 inches (93 mm) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Chattanooga 40°F (5°C) 
    Williamsburg 38°F (4°C)

Should I visit Chattanooga or Williamsburg in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Chattanooga as well as Williamsburg. Also, many visitors come to Williamsburg in the spring for the natural beauty.

Chattanooga is a little warmer than Williamsburg in the spring. The daily temperature in Chattanooga averages around 62°F (17°C) in April, and Williamsburg fluctuates around 57°F (14°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Williamsburg. 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 Williamsburg. Chattanooga gets 243 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Williamsburg receives 253 hours of full sun.

Chattanooga receives a lot of rain in the spring. Chattanooga usually gets more rain in April than Williamsburg. Chattanooga gets 4.4 inches (112 mm) of rain, while Williamsburg receives 3 inches (76 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Chattanooga 62°F (17°C) 
    Williamsburg 57°F (14°C)

Typical Weather for Williamsburg and Chattanooga

Chattanooga Williamsburg
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 40°F (5°C) 5.4 inches (137 mm) 38°F (4°C) 3.6 inches (93 mm)
Feb 44°F (7°C) 5.2 inches (132 mm) 41°F (5°C) 3.8 inches (96 mm)
Mar 53°F (12°C) 5.6 inches (143 mm) 49°F (9°C) 4.2 inches (106 mm)
Apr 62°F (17°C) 4.4 inches (112 mm) 57°F (14°C) 3 inches (76 mm)
May 70°F (21°C) 3.4 inches (87 mm) 66°F (19°C) 4 inches (102 mm)
Jun 78°F (25°C) 3.7 inches (93 mm) 74°F (24°C) 4.1 inches (105 mm)
Jul 81°F (27°C) 5.2 inches (131 mm) 78°F (26°C) 4.7 inches (120 mm)
Aug 80°F (27°C) 3.2 inches (82 mm) 78°F (25°C) 4.7 inches (120 mm)
Sep 74°F (24°C) 3.7 inches (94 mm) 72°F (22°C) 4.6 inches (118 mm)
Oct 63°F (17°C) 3 inches (75 mm) 61°F (16°C) 2.8 inches (71 mm)
Nov 53°F (12°C) 3.9 inches (100 mm) 52°F (11°C) 3.2 inches (81 mm)
Dec 44°F (7°C) 5.2 inches (133 mm) 43°F (6°C) 3.5 inches (90 mm)