A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Gatlinburg vs. Houston for Nightlife, Attractions, Food, and Couples

Should you visit Gatlinburg or Houston?

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 Houston 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 nightlife, hiking, and shopping. See Gatlinburg travel costs.

Houston

Houston is a diverse, sprawling, and southern city. It's an amazing and huge city with tons of activities and things to do. Other reasons to visit include shopping, museums, and nightlife. See Houston travel costs.

Gatlinburg and Houston: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular for skiing
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Nice resorts
  • Good for hiking
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Very walkable
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for food
  • Less popular with backpackers
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for students
  • Big city activities
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with backpackers
  • Less walkable


Is there more to do in Gatlinburg or Houston?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Houston. Although Gatlinburg and Houston are popular destinations, Houston has more sights and attractions for tourists. Houston is very popular for its museums and attractions, food, music, and big city activities, while Gatlinburg attracts visitors for its skiing, nightlife, resorts, and hiking. Gatlinburg is more touristy than Houston and is popular for its countless entertainment venues as well as its easy access to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Houston is famous for its sprawling size, its local Texas restaurants, and being the home to NASA. It is also well known for The Space Center Houston.

How is Gatlinburg different from Houston?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Gatlinburg or Houston Better for Skiing?

Gatlinburg
Houston

Gatlinburg is a good destination for winter skiing. However, Houston is not a skiing destination.

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.

Houston is not a skiing destination.


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

Gatlinburg
Houston

Houston is great for its historical sights. Also, Gatlinburg is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its sights and museums.

Many visitors head to Houston specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. Head to Houston's Museum District to explore 19 different museums in a walkable area. A highlight of a trip to the city is a visit to the Space Center, but other popular museums include the Houston Museum of Natural Science, the Museum of Fine Arts, and the Houston Children's Museum.

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.

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

Gatlinburg
Houston

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

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in Houston. The city is famous for its Texas barbecue, Mexican food, and a wide diversity of other different ethnic foods. It's a surprisingly diverse city and this is reflected in the restaurant selection around town.

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 Houston Better for Nightlife?

Gatlinburg
Houston

Gatlinburg is a world-class destination for nightlife and partying. Also, Houston is still popular, but not quite as popular 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.

Many people head to Houston for the nightlife scene. The nightlife is at its best on weekends when bars, dance clubs, and concert halls come to life. There are a diversity of venues around town including dance clubs, Honky Tonks, and cocktail bars. Some of the most active nightlife areas are Downtown, Midtown, Montrose, Washington Avenue, and Rice Village.


Is Gatlinburg or Houston Better for Music?

Gatlinburg
Houston

Houston is very good for live music. However, Gatlinburg is not a live music destination.

Music lovers will find a few good venues in Houston. Popular music venues include Fitzgerald's, Walter's Downtown, and The Continental Club.

Gatlinburg is not a live music destination.

Is Gatlinburg or Houston Better for Resorts?

Gatlinburg
Houston

Gatlinburg is well known for its resorts. However, Houston is not a resort destination.

There are plenty of resorts in Gatlinburg to choose from. There are plenty of resorts and vacation clubs near town. Many have pools, waterslides, or hot tubs.

Houston is not a resort destination.

Is Gatlinburg or Houston Better for Hiking?

Gatlinburg
Houston

Gatlinburg is well known for its hiking experiences. However, Houston is not a hiking destination.

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

Houston is not a hiking destination.


Is the Shopping Better in Gatlinburg or Houston?

Gatlinburg
Houston

If you're looking to go shopping, Gatlinburg and Houston both offer plenty of nice spots.

Plenty of visitors enjoy shopping while in Gatlinburg. 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.

Houston offers some nice shopping areas. There are a number of upscale malls and shopping centers that have brand names, chain stores, and the occasional local shop where you can pick up items.

Is Gatlinburg or Houston Better for Families?

Gatlinburg
Houston

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

Houston is a very family-friendly destination. It is a large city with plenty of things that kids can enjoy including museums, theaters, a zoo, and even the Space Center. The Children's Museum of Houston is perfect for a rainy day. For science loving kids there's the Health Museum and the Museum of Natural Science. Houston also has a Six Flags nearby which the whole family can enjoy.

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 Houston Better for Couples?

Gatlinburg
Houston

Gatlinburg is well known for its romantic activities. Also, Houston is still popular, but not quite as popular for couples.

Couples visit Gatlinburg frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. 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.

Houston is a good city for couples to visit. There's a surprising diversity of restaurants around the city. There are also performing arts productions and many outdoor parks and gardens.


Is Gatlinburg or Houston Better for Students?

Gatlinburg
Houston

Houston is very good for its student-friendly activities. However, Gatlinburg is not popular with students.

It's common for students to visit Houston. It's a large city with a number of universities and a large student population.

Gatlinburg is not popular with students.

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

Gatlinburg
Houston

Gatlinburg is a good destination for its public transit. However, Houston is not particularly known for times when you don't have a car.

You'll find some public transit in Gatlinburg, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There's a free trolley service that offers a convenient way to get around town.

Public transit is mostly limited in Houston. The system includes buses and a limited light rail. Houston is known as a car-centric city and you really need a car to fully experience it.

Is Gatlinburg or Houston a more walkable city?

Gatlinburg
Houston

Gatlinburg is well known for its high level of walkability. However, Houston is not particularly known for its ease of walking around.

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.

Houston is generally not a very walkable city. The most walkable neighborhood is the historic Houston Heights, but most parts of the city aren't very walkable.


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

Should I spend more time in Houston or Gatlinburg?

How long in Gatlinburg or Houston?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Gatlinburg and Houston. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Gatlinburg than in Houston. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Gatlinburg, and 2-3 days is enough time in Houston.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Gatlinburg than Houston 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 Gatlinburg.


  • How many days in Gatlinburg or Houston? Ideal Length of Stay
    Gatlinburg 2-4 
    Houston 2-3

One day in Gatlinburg or Houston?

In Gatlinburg, you'll find skiing and nightlife. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. One reason most visitors come is for the nightlife. This city offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

When visiting Houston, people usually allow for lots of time. Anyone can find something fun to do here. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Gatlinburg or Houston?

In Gatlinburg, you'll find nightlife 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. One reason most visitors come is for the nightlife. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Gatlinburg has to offer.

When visiting Houston, people usually allow for lots of time. It offers something for everyone. Many people spend a weekend here. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this city.

Five days in Gatlinburg or Houston?

Gatlinburg is a great place to explore. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. 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.

Houston, a popular city, is full of activities for travelers. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.


A week in Gatlinburg or Houston?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Gatlinburg. Many people enjoy the museums and skiing when visiting Gatlinburg. One reason most visitors come is for the nightlife. It's also a relaxing resort destination. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

Houston is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 2-Week Tours from San Francisco, The Best 2-Week Tours from Los Angeles, The Best Family-Friendly Tours to United States of America, and The Best Wildlife Tours to United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Houston or Gatlinburg?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations. These travel costs come from the actual spending of real travelers.

  • Gatlinburg Prices
    USA Prices
    Houston Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Gatlinburg $253
    Houston $287

The average daily cost (per person) in Gatlinburg is $253, while the average daily cost in Houston is $287. 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 Gatlinburg and Houston in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Gatlinburg $80
    Houston $142
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Gatlinburg $160
    Houston $284
Compare Hotels in Gatlinburg and Houston

Looking for a hotel in Gatlinburg or Houston? 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 Gatlinburg


Hotels in Houston


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: Gatlinburg Hotel Prices and Houston Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Gatlinburg $35
    Houston $72

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Houston

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Houston:

  • Privat Transfer from Houston Airport (IAH) to Galveston Port: $252
  • William P. Hobby Airport (HOU) to Port of Galveston - Arrival Private Transfer: $216
  • Sedan Airport Transfer in Houston: $165
  • Houston William P. Hobby Airport (HOU) to Houston - Arrival Private Transfer: $139
  • Houston to Houston George Bush Airport (IAH) - Departure Private Transfer: $139
  • Arrival Private Transfer: George Bush Airport IAH to Houston in Luxury SUV: $105
  • Departure Private Transfer: Houston to George Bush Airport IAH in Luxury SUV: $105
  • Private Arrival Transfer from Houston William P. Hobby Airport HOU: $48

Is it cheaper to fly into Gatlinburg or Houston?

Prices for flights to both Houston and Gatlinburg 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
    Gatlinburg $148
    Houston $60
Typical Food Prices in Gatlinburg

Here are some examples of typical meal expenses from previous travelers to Gatlinburg:


  • Chinese Food Dinner (for 2)
    $21

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Houston

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

  • Astroville Food Tour of Downtown Houston with Tunnel Access: $72
  • Downtown Houston Food Tour: $80
  • Houston Walking Food Tour With Secret Food Tours: $85
  • Houston Downtown: Secret Food Tours: $86
  • Howdy H-Town EADO Food Tour: $90
  • East Downtown Food Tour: $90
  • Astroville Food Tour of Downtown Houston: $90
  • Houston Heights Culture and Food Tour: $95

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Gatlinburg $24
    Houston $14
Typical Entertainment Prices in Gatlinburg

For Gatlinburg, here are some examples of average entertainment and activity prices from previous travelers:


  • Horseback Riding Photos
    $22
  • Horseback Riding (for 2)
    $55

Tours and Activities in Gatlinburg

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Gatlinburg.

  • Museum of the Cherokee People Admission Ticket: $8.00
  • Great Smoky Mountains NP Driving Tour smartphone autoplay APP/GPS: $9.75
  • Clingmans Dome Self Guided Walking Audio Tour: $9.99
  • Blue Ridge Parkway (Cherokee to Asheville) Self-Guided Audio Tour: $15
  • Cades Cove Sightseeing Self-Guided Driving Audio Tour: $15
  • Self-Guided Audio Driving Tour in Great Smoky Mountains: $17
  • Great Smoky Mountains National Park Self-Guided Driving Tour: $17
  • Rocky Top Mountain Coaster Admission Ticket in Pigeon Forge: $18
  • Scavenger Hunt Adventure in Pigeon Forge by Zombie Scavengers: $20
  • Scenic Blue Ridge Parkway Self-Guided Driving Audio Tour: $25
  • Self-Guided Audio Driving Tour in Blue Ridge Parkway: $25
  • Great Smoky Mountains & Cades Cove Self-Guided Driving Tours: $25

Tours and Activities in Houston

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

  • H- Town Tour with 15ft Open Air Party Truck : $46
  • Houston Ghosts and Hauntings By US Ghost Adventures: $31
  • 1 Hour Private Christmas Lights Tour in Houston : $39
  • 2-Hour Private Sightseeing Cart Tour of Houston and Galveston: $256
  • 90s R&B Party Bike Tour through Downtown Houston: $46
  • All-Inclusive Hip-Hop Brunch Party Bike Tour: $60
  • Astroville Best of Houston City Driving Tour with Live Guide: $45
  • Astroville Driving Tour & NASA Space Center Ticket/Transportation: $85
  • Astroville Houston Tunnel Tour (in Spanish): $30
  • Astroville Tunnel Tour & NASA Space Center Ticket/Transportation: $85
  • Astroville Tunnel Tour of Downtown Houston (Air-Conditioned): $30
  • Color Factory Houston Ticket: $29

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Gatlinburg $15
    Houston $13

Sample the Local Flavors in Gatlinburg

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Gatlinburg:

  • Famous Moonshine & Wine Tour From Pigeon Forge: $70

Sample the Local Flavors in Houston

Also in Houston, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • Brewery Pass with Beer Tastings: $50
  • Private Houston Brewery Tour by Cart: $57
  • 2-Hour Downtown Brewery Tour by Electric Cart: $70
  • Private 3-in-1 Sightseeing, Brewery, and Mural Tour of Houston by Cart: $115


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


Which is Bigger, Gatlinburg or Houston?

Houston has a larger population, and is about 490 times larger than the population of Gatlinburg. When comparing the sizes of Gatlinburg and Houston, 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 Gatlinburg or Houston?

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 Gatlinburg or Houston in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Gatlinburg as well as Houston. Many visitors come to Gatlinburg in the summer for the hiking. Additionally, most visitors come to Houston for the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In the summer, Gatlinburg is around the same temperature as Houston. Typically, the summer temperatures in Gatlinburg in July average around 81°F (27°C), and Houston averages at about 84°F (29°C).

It's quite rainy in Houston. Gatlinburg receives a lot of rain in the summer. Gatlinburg usually gets around the same amount of rain in July as Houston. Gatlinburg gets 4.7 inches (119 mm) of rain, while Houston receives 4.8 inches (122 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Gatlinburg 81°F (27°C) 
    Houston 84°F (29°C)

Should I visit Gatlinburg or Houston in the Autumn?

Both Houston and Gatlinburg are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Gatlinburg for the hiking trails and the shopping scene during these months. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Houston because of the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the music scene.

In October, Gatlinburg is generally cooler than Houston. Daily temperatures in Gatlinburg average around 63°F (17°C), and Houston fluctuates around 71°F (22°C).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Houston. In October, Gatlinburg usually receives less rain than Houston. Gatlinburg gets 2.7 inches (68 mm) of rain, while Houston receives 4.2 inches (107 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Gatlinburg 63°F (17°C) 
    Houston 71°F (22°C)

Should I visit Gatlinburg or Houston in the Winter?

Both Houston and Gatlinburg during the winter are popular places to visit. The winter months attract visitors to Gatlinburg because of the skiing, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Houston this time of year.

The weather in Gatlinburg can be very cold. Gatlinburg is much colder than Houston in the winter. The daily temperature in Gatlinburg averages around 40°F (5°C) in January, and Houston fluctuates around 52°F (11°C).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Gatlinburg. Gatlinburg usually gets more rain in January than Houston. Gatlinburg gets 4.7 inches (119 mm) of rain, while Houston receives 3.6 inches (91 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Gatlinburg 40°F (5°C) 
    Houston 52°F (11°C)

Should I visit Gatlinburg or Houston in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Gatlinburg and Houston. Also, many travelers come to Houston for the activities around the city.

In the spring, Gatlinburg is cooler than Houston. Typically, the spring temperatures in Gatlinburg in April average around 62°F (17°C), and Houston averages at about 70°F (21°C).

In April, Gatlinburg usually receives more rain than Houston. Gatlinburg gets 3.6 inches (92 mm) of rain, while Houston receives 3.1 inches (78 mm) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Gatlinburg 62°F (17°C) 
    Houston 70°F (21°C)

Typical Weather for Houston and Gatlinburg

Gatlinburg Houston
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 40°F (5°C) 4.7 inches (119 mm) 52°F (11°C) 3.6 inches (91 mm)
Feb 44°F (7°C) 4.7 inches (120 mm) 55°F (13°C) 3.1 inches (79 mm)
Mar 54°F (12°C) 4.8 inches (123 mm) 63°F (17°C) 2.8 inches (71 mm)
Apr 62°F (17°C) 3.6 inches (92 mm) 70°F (21°C) 3.1 inches (78 mm)
May 70°F (21°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm) 76°F (25°C) 5.2 inches (132 mm)
Jun 78°F (25°C) 3.6 inches (92 mm) 81°F (27°C) 6.4 inches (163 mm)
Jul 81°F (27°C) 4.7 inches (119 mm) 84°F (29°C) 4.8 inches (122 mm)
Aug 80°F (27°C) 3.2 inches (82 mm) 83°F (29°C) 4.4 inches (113 mm)
Sep 74°F (24°C) 2.8 inches (71 mm) 80°F (27°C) 5.6 inches (143 mm)
Oct 63°F (17°C) 2.7 inches (68 mm) 71°F (22°C) 4.2 inches (107 mm)
Nov 53°F (12°C) 3.5 inches (90 mm) 63°F (17°C) 4.1 inches (104 mm)
Dec 44°F (7°C) 4.5 inches (114 mm) 55°F (13°C) 3.4 inches (87 mm)