A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Gatlinburg vs. Breckenridge for Skiing, Nightlife, Resorts, and Hiking

Should you visit Gatlinburg or Breckenridge?

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

Which city is more affordable and which is best for your travel style? If you're trying to figure out where to go next, comparing the travel costs between Gatlinburg and Breckenridge can help you decide which place is right for you.

Gatlinburg

Gatlinburg is a high energy, wild, and flashy city. And you can't forget about the hiking, shopping, and museums.

Breckenridge

Breckenridge is a nature-filled, charming, and breathtaking ski resort. With plenty of activities and sights, this is a small town worth visiting. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Since it has a quaint atmosphere, you'll want to spend time soaking it all in. Other reasons to visit include hiking, shopping, and skiing.

Gatlinburg and Breckenridge: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Gatlinburg or Breckenridge?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Breckenridge. Although Gatlinburg and Breckenridge are popular destinations, Breckenridge has more sights and attractions for tourists. Breckenridge is very popular for its skiing, food, historical sights, shopping, christmas markets, small town charm, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere, while Gatlinburg attracts visitors for its museums, nightlife, resorts, and hiking. Gatlinburg is more touristy than Breckenridge and is popular for its countless entertainment venues as well as its easy access to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Breckenridge is famous for its world-class ski resorts, its charming small town atmosphere, and its family-friendly environment. It is also well known for The Family-Friendly Ski Resort.

How is Gatlinburg different from Breckenridge?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Gatlinburg or Breckenridge Better for Skiing?

Breckenridge is renowned for skiing. Also, Gatlinburg is not as popular, but is still a nice city for snow skiing.

Breckenridge is among the world's best ski destinations. This is one of the most recognizable ski destinations in the world. It has diverse terrain that is good for all levels including beginners, intermediate, and expert skiers. The resort also has the tallest chairlift in North America.

For winter sports and skiing, Gatlinburg is a great destination to visit. Ober Gatlinburg is the only ski area in Tennessee. The winter activities open after Thanksgiving and include snow skiing, snowboarding, ice skating, and tubing.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Gatlinburg or Breckenridge?

Gatlinburg is a popular place for its sights and museums. However, Breckenridge does not have museums and landmarks.

Gatlinburg offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. Museums range from gaudy to quirky. Check out the Hollywood Star Cars Museum, the Salt and Pepper Shaker Museum, Ripley's Believe It or Not, the Hollywood Wax Museum, and the Titanic Museum. There's also the Gatlinburg Space Needle and the Gatlinburg SkyBridge.

Breckenridge does not have museums and landmarks.

Is the Food Better in Gatlinburg or Breckenridge? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Breckenridge is very good for its local flavors and cuisine. However, Gatlinburg is not a good destination for its local cuisine and restaurants.

There are plenty of up and coming restaurants around Breckenridge. There are a number of restaurants around town serving everything from casual to fine dining. There are bistros, pubs, and luxury options where you can enjoy international or local dishes including elk and buffalo.

You'll find the standard options when it comes to food in Gatlinburg. Staying true to form, restaurants in Gatlinburg cater to the tourist scene and serve up burgers, pizza, pancakes, and other classic favorites.

Is Gatlinburg or Breckenridge Better for Nightlife?

Gatlinburg is a world-class destination for nightlife and partying. Also, Breckenridge is not as famous, but is still a good ski resort to visit for its evening party scene.

People head to Gatlinburg just to party. Live music, theatrical shows, as well as bars and clubs that stay open late into the night give this town a huge party atmosphere. During the peak season the town is packed with people looking to have a good time and you'll find tons of things to do by simply walking down the main drag.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Breckenridge. The town comes to life in the winter and there are plenty of bars, breweries, and a wide selection of craft beer that you can try. Live music also brings the town to life in the evening.

Is Gatlinburg or Breckenridge Better for Resorts?

Gatlinburg is a well-known place for its resorts. Also, Breckenridge is not as famous, but is still a good ski resort to visit for its luxury resorts.

Gatlinburg is known as a popular and fun resort destination. There are plenty of resorts and vacation clubs near town. Many have pools, waterslides, or hot tubs.

Breckenridge has a few great resort options. The resorts often have pools or hot tubs where you can unwind after a day on the slopes. Many have condos that include a kitchen and separate bedrooms.

Is Gatlinburg or Breckenridge Better for its Old Town?

Breckenridge is very good for its historic old town. However, Gatlinburg does not have a historic old town.

Breckenridge is a good destination for visiting its old town. Originating as a mining town, there is a historic Main Street that is filled with character.

Gatlinburg does not have a historic old town.

Is Gatlinburg or Breckenridge Better for Hiking?

Gatlinburg is a well-known place for the nearby hiking options. Also, Breckenridge is not as famous, but is still a good ski resort to visit for its hiking trails.

Gatlinburg is a popular spot for hiking. You'll need to head out of town into the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, but once you're there the hiking is impressive. There are waterfall hikes, trails to viewpoints, and loops that take you through wildflowers. Some of the most popular trails include Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail, Middle Prong Trail, and the Gatlinburg Trail.

Many people include a hike when visiting Breckenridge. During the summer months there are plenty of beautiful hikes nearby, but you'll likely need a car to reach most trailheads. Popular trails include Hoosier Pass Loop, Blue Lakes Trail, and McCullough Gulch.

Is the Shopping Better in Gatlinburg or Breckenridge?

Breckenridge is great for shopping. Also, Gatlinburg is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its shopping opportunities.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Breckenridge. Quaint shops and galleries are throughout the town where you can by gear, artwork, or souvenirs.

Gatlinburg offers some nice shopping areas. There are tourist traps and souvenir shops around town, but you can also head to the Great Smoky Arts and Crafts Community where you can meet local artists and learn about their work.

Is Gatlinburg or Breckenridge Better for Christmas?

Breckenridge is renowned for its Christmas holiday experiences. However, Gatlinburg does not offer Christmas activities.

With so many activities, Breckenridge is a top place to visit during Christmas. From sledding to sleigh rides and hot chocolate, this town is absolutely magical during the Christmas season.

Gatlinburg does not offer Christmas activities.

Is Gatlinburg or Breckenridge Better for Christmas Markets?

Breckenridge is great for visiting Christmas markets. However, Gatlinburg does not offer Christmas markets.

Breckenridge has a lively atmosphere around its Christmas markets. During the holiday season the Arts District hosts a Christmas Market.

Gatlinburg does not offer Christmas markets.

Is Gatlinburg or Breckenridge Better for Families?

Breckenridge is great for its kid-friendly activities. However, Gatlinburg is not a family-friendly destination.

Breckenridge is a very family-friendly destination. It is a fun, family-friendly ski resort town with skiing for all levels. There are lessons for kids starting at the age of three, and slopes that are perfect for all skill levels. The town also has ice skating, sledding, and white water rafting.

Gatlinburg is not a family-friendly destination. Ober Gatlinburg is a combination ski resort and amusement park that is a highlight for many families. During the warmer season, horseback riding and waterparks are popular. There's also a Ripley's Aquarium, minigolf, and Gatlin's Fun Center. Nearby you'll find Dollywood and Pigeon Forge.

Is Gatlinburg or Breckenridge Better for Couples?

Both Gatlinburg and Breckenridge are great destinations to visit as a couple.

Gatlinburg is a great city if you're traveling as a couple. If you're looking for a flashy and ostentatious experience, then there are all the typical activities around town - Ripley's Believe It or Not, the Gatlinburg Space Needle, or Ober Gatlinburg. For a bit more nature, you can head out of town and enjoy one of the many hiking trails. There are also breweries and wineries in the area, as well as a range of resorts.

Breckenridge is a very popular place to visit for couples. For couples who enjoy skiing, outdoor activities, beautiful hikes, and a charming small town atmosphere, this is the perfect romantic getaway.

Is Gatlinburg or Breckenridge Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Breckenridge is very good for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Gatlinburg is not a good destination for backpackers.

Breckenridge is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. The town has a hostel or two for skiers who want a social setting at an affordable price.

Gatlinburg is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. It's a touristy town with plenty of cheap motels in the area. There are also campgrounds and hiking not far away.

Is Gatlinburg or Breckenridge Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Gatlinburg is a popular place for its public transit. However, Breckenridge is not a good ski resort for times when you don't have a car.

Gatlinburg has a few public transit options. There's a free trolley service that offers a convenient way to get around town.

Public transit is mostly limited in Breckenridge. There is a free shuttle service around town.

Is Gatlinburg or Breckenridge a more walkable city?

Breckenridge is renowned for its walkability. Also, Gatlinburg is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its high level of walkability.

Breckenridge is a very easy ski resort to get around on foot. The town is designed to be pedestrian-friendly.

Gatlinburg is a very walkable city. The downtown area is pedestrian-friendly and most of the attractions in town can be reached on foot. If you want to leave town, a car is a must, but in town traffic and parking can be frustrating, so walk when you can.

For even more information, also check out Is Gatlinburg Worth Visiting? and Is Breckenridge Worth Visiting?.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Wildlife Tours to United States of America, The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in United States of America, The Best Historical Tours in United States of America, and The Best 10-Day Tours in United States of America.

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

Which is Bigger, Gatlinburg or Breckenridge?

Gatlinburg has a larger population, and is about 47% larger than the population of Breckenridge. When comparing the sizes of Gatlinburg and Breckenridge, 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.