A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Gatlinburg vs. Los Angeles for Attractions, Food, Nightlife, and Hiking

Should you visit Gatlinburg or Los Angeles?

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 Los Angeles can help you decide which place is right for you.

Gatlinburg

Gatlinburg is a wild, flashy, and high energy city. It's also popular because of the nightlife, hiking, and shopping.

Los Angeles

Los Angeles is a energetic, dynamic, and glamourous city. It's an amazing and huge city with tons of activities and things to do. Other reasons to visit include nightlife, live music, and food.

Gatlinburg and Los Angeles: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Gatlinburg or Los Angeles?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Los Angeles than Gatlinburg, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Los Angeles is better known for its museums, theatre productions, food, music, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, shopping, and big city activities, while Gatlinburg is more popular for its skiing. Gatlinburg is well known for its countless entertainment venues as well as its easy access to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Los Angeles is well known for is many A-list celebrities, its world-famous clubs and venues, its glamourous beaches, and being the location of the iconic Hollywood. Also, Los Angeles is famous for Hollywood.

How is Gatlinburg different from Los Angeles?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Gatlinburg or Los Angeles Better for Skiing?

Gatlinburg is a good destination for skiing and snowboarding. However, Los Angeles is not a skiing destination.

Head to Gatlinburg for some great skiing and other winter activities. Ober Gatlinburg is the only ski area in Tennessee. The winter activities open after Thanksgiving and include snow skiing, snowboarding, ice skating, and tubing.

Los Angeles is not a skiing destination.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Gatlinburg or Los Angeles?

Los Angeles is renowned for its historical sights. Also, Gatlinburg is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its sights and museums.

Travelers visit Los Angeles from around the world to see its many world-famous attractions. The city has an eclectic list of monuments and museums. Notable landmarks include the famous Hollywood sign, Griffith Observatory, the Getty Center, and the Petersen Automotive 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 Gatlinburg or Los Angeles Better for Theater?

Los Angeles is great for theatre. However, Gatlinburg is not a theatre destination.

Los Angeles has a number of performance venues where you can see a variety of shows. While most people think of Hollywood when they think of LA, the city also has a thriving stage presence. Musicals and plays are popular throughout the city.

Gatlinburg is not a theatre destination.

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

Los Angeles is renowned for its local flavors and cuisine. However, Gatlinburg is not a good destination for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Los Angeles has long been recognized as a culinary destination with great restaurants. As a huge and diverse city, there is no shortage of amazing food options around town. There are a wide range of cuisines represented and many different neighborhoods that specialize in specific types of food. Popular dishes around town include Cobb Salads, Mexican Tacos, and the French Dip Sandwich.

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 Los Angeles Better for Nightlife?

The vibe at night is first-rate in both Gatlinburg and Los Angeles.

Gatlinburg is a destination that you simply have to visit at least once for nightlife. 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.

Los Angeles has a colorful and one-of-a-kind nightlife scene. The city's nightlife scene is as diverse as the city itself. There are glamorous clubs where you might spot a celebrity, as well as local dives with a more down-to-earth vibe. Some of the most famous clubs in the city include Academy, Avalon, and Boardner's.

Is Gatlinburg or Los Angeles Better for Music?

Los Angeles is renowned for live music. However, Gatlinburg is not a live music destination.

Los Angeles is known as a music capital around the world. Music, movies, and show business - it's all part of what Los Angeles is known for. Several famous music venues include The Greek Theatre, Whiskey a Go Go, and The Roxy Theatre.

Gatlinburg is not a live music destination.

Is Gatlinburg or Los Angeles Better for Resorts?

Luxury resorts are fairly comparable in Gatlinburg and Los Angeles.

Vacationers can choose from a number of terrific resorts in Gatlinburg. There are plenty of resorts and vacation clubs near town. Many have pools, waterslides, or hot tubs.

Los Angeles is a popular resort destination that attracts visitors from everywhere. The city is home to a number of high end resorts including The Beverly Hill Hotel, The Langham Huntington Pasadena, and The Ritz-Carlton.

Is Gatlinburg or Los Angeles Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Los Angeles is very good for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Gatlinburg is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

It's worth going snorkeling or scuba diving in Los Angeles. The coastal setting means that there are a number of places where you can put on a mask and hop in the water. Popular snorkeling or diving spots near the city include Santa Catalina Island, Diver's Cove, and Crystal Cove State Park. Many visitors find the water to be a bit chili, but the wildlife is unique and beautiful.

Gatlinburg is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Gatlinburg or Los Angeles Better for Beaches?

Los Angeles is renowned for its beaches. However, Gatlinburg is not a beach destination.

With world-famous beaches, Los Angeles is a very popular vacation destination. Ranging from beaches with stunning natural beauty to those with glamourous and fun atmospheres, this city has a number of beaches to choose from. There are many fun and high-energy urban beach settings, and there are also beaches that are lined with parks and offer a more natural environment. Some of the most popular are Santa Monica, Malibu, Huntington Beach, and Redondo Beach.

Gatlinburg is not a beach destination.

Is Gatlinburg or Los Angeles Better for Hiking?

Los Angeles is renowned for hiking. Also, Gatlinburg is not as popular, but is still a nice city for the nearby hiking options.

Many people visit Los Angeles specifically for its hiking. In and around the city you'll find world class urban hiking with views of the mountains and the ocean. Some of the most well-known hikes include the Charlie Turner Trail to Mount Hollywood, Runyon Canyon, and the Sara Wan Trailhead at Corral Canyon.

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.

Is the Shopping Better in Gatlinburg or Los Angeles?

Los Angeles is renowned for shopping. Also, Gatlinburg is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its shopping opportunities.

People travel from around the world to go shopping in Los Angeles. Although it's most famous for the high end shopping at Rodeo Drive, there are actually many different shopping venues throughout the city. Other famous shopping areas include Robertson Blvd and the Grove.

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 Los Angeles Better for Families?

Los Angeles is renowned for its kid-friendly activities. However, Gatlinburg is not a family-friendly destination.

Los Angeles is one of the most popular family destinations. With its many amusement parks, including nearby Disneyland, and its countless family-friendly parks and playgrounds, there is no shortage of things to do with kids around the city. Favorite activities include the amusement parks, exploring Venice Beach, a trip to the California Science Center, and taking a Warner Brothers Studio Tour.

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 Los Angeles Better for Couples?

Los Angeles is renowned for romance. Also, Gatlinburg is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its romantic activities.

For those traveling as a couple, Los Angeles has plenty to offer. It is a large, sprawling city with tucked away romantic scenes that are perfect for a couple's getaway or a dream honeymoon. There are also trendy nightclubs, world-class restaurants, and high-energy beaches that make for iconic date activities.

Gatlinburg is a very popular place to visit for couples. 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.

Is Gatlinburg or Los Angeles Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Los Angeles is great for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Gatlinburg is not a good destination for backpackers.

Los Angeles is very popular with the backpacker crowd. The city is a major travel destination for all types, and backpackers will find no shortage of hostels or budget friendly accommodation around town.

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 Los Angeles Better for Students?

Los Angeles is renowned for its student-friendly activities. However, Gatlinburg is not popular with students.

Students come from all over the world to visit Los Angeles. International students have long flocked to this for its major universities and diverse setting. Major universities in the area include UCLA, the University of Southern California, and the California Institute of Technology.

Gatlinburg is not popular with students.

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

Gatlinburg and Los Angeles both offer notable public transit to get you around.

While Gatlinburg offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There's a free trolley service that offers a convenient way to get around town.

Los Angeles has a few public transit options. Many of the public transit options are overlooked by visitors for a number of reasons, but options include the subway, light rail, and buses.

Is Gatlinburg or Los Angeles a more walkable city?

Gatlinburg is a very popular place for its ease of walking around. Also, Los Angeles is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its walkability.

Gatlinburg is a very walkable destination. 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.

Los Angeles is somewhat walkable. The city is sprawling, but some of the neighborhoods are more walkable than others. Some of the more walkable neighborhoods include Hollywood, Koreatown, Downtown, and MacArthur Park.

For even more information, also check out Is Gatlinburg Worth Visiting? and Is Los Angeles 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 we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Gatlinburg and Los Angeles, we can see that Los Angeles is more expensive. And not only is Gatlinburg much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Gatlinburg would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Gatlinburg 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 Los Angeles would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Los Angeles than you might in Gatlinburg.

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

Which is Bigger, Gatlinburg or Los Angeles?

Los Angeles has a larger population, and is about 880 times larger than the population of Gatlinburg. When comparing the sizes of Gatlinburg and Los Angeles, 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 Los Angeles?

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 Gatlinburg or Los Angeles in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Gatlinburg and Los Angeles. Many visitors come to Gatlinburg in the summer for the hiking. Furthermore, most visitors come to Los Angeles for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In July, Gatlinburg is generally a little warmer than Los Angeles. Daily temperatures in Gatlinburg average around 81°F (27°C), and Los Angeles fluctuates around 72°F (22°C).

Gatlinburg gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In July, Gatlinburg usually receives more rain than Los Angeles. Gatlinburg gets 4.7 inches (119 mm) of rain, while Los Angeles receives 0 inches (0 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Gatlinburg or Los Angeles in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Gatlinburg as well as Los Angeles. Most visitors come to Gatlinburg for the hiking trails and the shopping scene during these months. Additionally, the autumn months attract visitors to Los Angeles because of the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the music scene.

Gatlinburg is around the same temperature as Los Angeles in the autumn. The daily temperature in Gatlinburg averages around 63°F (17°C) in October, and Los Angeles fluctuates around 64°F (18°C).

Gatlinburg usually gets more rain in October than Los Angeles. Gatlinburg gets 2.7 inches (68 mm) of rain, while Los Angeles receives 0.6 inches (15 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Gatlinburg or Los Angeles in the Winter?

Both Los Angeles and Gatlinburg are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. 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, the theater shows, and the cuisine are the main draw to Los Angeles this time of year.

The weather in Gatlinburg can be very cold. In the winter, Gatlinburg is much colder than Los Angeles. Typically, the winter temperatures in Gatlinburg in January average around 40°F (5°C), and Los Angeles averages at about 55°F (13°C).

It's quite rainy in Gatlinburg. In January, Gatlinburg usually receives more rain than Los Angeles. Gatlinburg gets 4.7 inches (119 mm) of rain, while Los Angeles receives 3.1 inches (79 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Gatlinburg or Los Angeles in the Spring?

Both Los Angeles and Gatlinburg during the spring are popular places to visit. Also, many travelers come to Los Angeles for the beaches and the activities around the city.

In April, Gatlinburg is generally around the same temperature as Los Angeles. Daily temperatures in Gatlinburg average around 62°F (17°C), and Los Angeles fluctuates around 61°F (16°C).

Gatlinburg usually gets more rain in April than Los Angeles. Gatlinburg gets 3.6 inches (92 mm) of rain, while Los Angeles receives 1 inches (25 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Los Angeles and Gatlinburg