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

Should you visit Gatlinburg or New York City?

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 New York City can help you decide which place is right for you.

Gatlinburg

Gatlinburg is a flashy, high energy, and wild city. Other reasons to visit include nightlife, hiking, and shopping.

New York City

New York City is a energetic, cosmopolitan, and one-of-a-kind city. It's an amazing and huge city with tons of activities and things to do. It's a gorgeous place to visit. Other reasons to visit include shopping, museums, and theater.

Gatlinburg and New York City: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Gatlinburg or New York City?

Tourists will generally find more to do in New York City. Although Gatlinburg and New York City are both popular with visitors, New York City has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. New York City is more popular for its museums, theatre productions, food, music, shopping, christmas markets, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Gatlinburg is known for its skiing, resorts, and hiking. Gatlinburg is popular for its countless entertainment venues as well as its easy access to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. New York City is popular for its high-reaching skyscrapers, iconic landmarks, world-class theater scene, and endless energy. It is also home to The Statue of Liberty.

How is Gatlinburg different from New York City?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Gatlinburg or New York City Better for Skiing?

Gatlinburg is a good destination for skiing and snowboarding. However, New York City is not a skiing destination.

Gatlinburg is a great destination for skiing with plenty areas to explore. Ober Gatlinburg is the only ski area in Tennessee. The winter activities open after Thanksgiving and include snow skiing, snowboarding, ice skating, and tubing.

New York City is not a skiing destination.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Gatlinburg or New York City?

New York City 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 New York City from around the world to see its many world-famous attractions. The sights and museums around the city are too numerous to list, but some of the most famous include the Statue of Liberty, the Metropolitan Museum of Art, the Museum of Modern Art, Central Park, and the Empire State Building. This is a city that is filled with iconic landmarks and you could spend weeks here and still not see it all.

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 New York City Better for Theater?

New York City is renowned for theatre. However, Gatlinburg is not a theatre destination.

The theater scene in New York City is world-class. Visiting Broadway is a quintessential NYC experience. Whether you enjoy the theater or simply want to experience something new, seeing a Broadway show is a true bucket list activity.

Gatlinburg is not a theatre destination.

Is the Food Better in Gatlinburg or New York City? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

New York City is renowned for its local flavors and cuisine. However, Gatlinburg is not a good destination for its local cuisine and restaurants.

New York City has long been recognized as a culinary destination with great restaurants. The city has a diverse variety of restaurants, with everything from local dives to Michelin star options. There are many neighborhoods that are notable for their ethnic cuisine, particularly Little Italy and Chinatown. Quintessential NYC dishes include NYC pizza, NYC hot dogs, bagels, and Chinese dim sum.

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 New York City Better for Nightlife?

The vibe at night is first-rate in both Gatlinburg and New York City.

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.

New York City has a colorful and one-of-a-kind nightlife scene. Known as the city that never sleeps, you can be assured that NYC has some of the best nightlife in the world. There are world class bars and clubs, but also local venues that have a more relaxed atmosphere. Several famous clubs include Paul's Cocktail Lounge, Le Bain, and Avant Gardner.

Is Gatlinburg or New York City Better for Music?

New York City is renowned for live music. However, Gatlinburg is not a live music destination.

New York City is known as a music capital around the world. Popular music venues include Music Hall of Williamsburg, Radio City Music Hall, Beacon Theatre, and Forest Hills Stadium.

Gatlinburg is not a live music destination.

Is Gatlinburg or New York City Better for Resorts?

Gatlinburg is an excellent place to visit for its luxury resorts. However, New York City 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.

New York City is not a resort destination.

Is Gatlinburg or New York City Better for Hiking?

Gatlinburg is an excellent place to visit for its hiking trails. However, New York City is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors explore the nearby hiking trails while visiting 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.

New York City is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Gatlinburg or New York City?

New York City 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 New York City. The shopping is as diverse as the city itself. Head for Fifth Avenue for high end shopping or check out any of the many street markets for local items. New York is known for its many flea markets where you can find vintage items at a good price. And if you're looking to pick up a souvenir shirt or knick knack, there are plenty of souvenir shops around town as well.

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 New York City Better for Christmas?

New York City is renowned for its Christmas holiday experiences. However, Gatlinburg does not offer Christmas activities.

With so many activities, New York City is a top place to visit during Christmas. Christmas in the city is a quintessential experience. From the Christmas tree and ice skating at Rockefeller Center to seeing a live performance of the Nutcracker, everyone enjoys the holidays in New York.

Gatlinburg does not offer Christmas activities.

Is Gatlinburg or New York City Better for Christmas Markets?

New York City is great for visiting Christmas markets. However, Gatlinburg does not offer Christmas markets.

New York City has a lively atmosphere around its Christmas markets. There are a number of Christmas markets that pop up around town during the holiday season. Nothing will get you more in the holiday spirit than wandering these unique venues.

Gatlinburg does not offer Christmas markets.

Is Gatlinburg or New York City Better for Families?

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

New York City is a very family-friendly destination. The city has many activities for kids of all ages including world class museums, beautifully designed playgrounds, and theater shows designed just for young ones. There are many kid-friendly restaurants as well and older kids will enjoy visiting the iconic landmarks in this world-class city.

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 New York City Better for Couples?

New York City 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, New York City has plenty to offer. From a beautiful carriage ride through Central Park, to a romantic river cruise at night, there is an endless list of unique activities that couples can enjoy in the city. Whether you're interested in theater, the arts, music, or nightlife, this city has it all.

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 New York City Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

New York City is great for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Gatlinburg is not a good destination for backpackers.

New York City is very popular with the backpacker crowd. It isn't a particularly budget-friendly destination, but it does get its share of backpackers, so you'll find a nice list of hostels and affordable hangouts that are perfect for the backpacker crowd. This is probably one of the most popular cities for backpackers in the entire United States.

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 New York City Better for Students?

New York City is renowned for its student-friendly activities. However, Gatlinburg is not popular with students.

Students come from all over the world to visit New York City. The city has a diverse population, and international students will feel right at home here exploring the city. There are also plenty of major universities including NYU, Columbia University, and Cornell University.

Gatlinburg is not popular with students.

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

New York City is renowned for times when you don't have a car. Also, Gatlinburg is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its public transit.

New York City has a great public transit system. The city has one of the largest subway systems in the world. There's also an elaborate bus system, ferry system, and yellow taxis all around town.

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

Is Gatlinburg or New York City a more walkable city?

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

New York City is a very easy city to get around on foot. The majority of the neighborhoods in Manhattan are very walkable and easy to explore on foot. Most people prefer not to drive here as it can be overwhelming and chaotic.

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 New York City 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 New York City, we can see that New York City 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 New York City would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in New York City 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 New York City Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Gatlinburg or New York City?

New York City has a larger population, and is about 1920 times larger than the population of Gatlinburg. When comparing the sizes of Gatlinburg and New York City, 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 New York City?

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 New York City in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Gatlinburg and New York City. Many visitors come to Gatlinburg in the summer for the hiking. Also, most visitors come to New York City for the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

Gatlinburg is around the same temperature as New York City in the summer. The daily temperature in Gatlinburg averages around 81°F (27°C) in July, and New York City fluctuates around 77°F (25°C).

New York City receives a lot of rain in the summer. Gatlinburg gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In July, Gatlinburg usually receives around the same amount of rain as New York City. Gatlinburg gets 4.7 inches (119 mm) of rain, while New York City receives 4.5 inches (114 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Gatlinburg or New York City in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Gatlinburg as well as New York City. Most visitors come to Gatlinburg for the hiking trails and the shopping scene during these months. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to New York City because of the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Gatlinburg is a little warmer than New York City. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Gatlinburg in October average around 63°F (17°C), and New York City averages at about 57°F (14°C).

Gatlinburg usually gets less rain in October than New York City. Gatlinburg gets 2.7 inches (68 mm) of rain, while New York City receives 3.1 inches (78 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Gatlinburg or New York City in the Winter?

Both New York City 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 Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine are the main draw to New York City this time of year.

It's quite cold in New York City in the winter. The weather in Gatlinburg can be very cold. In January, Gatlinburg is generally much warmer than New York City. Daily temperatures in Gatlinburg average around 40°F (5°C), and New York City fluctuates around 31°F (-1°C).

It's quite rainy in Gatlinburg. In January, Gatlinburg usually receives more rain than New York City. Gatlinburg gets 4.7 inches (119 mm) of rain, while New York City receives 3.4 inches (86 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Gatlinburg or New York City in the Spring?

Both New York City and Gatlinburg during the spring are popular places to visit. Furthermore, many travelers come to New York City for the activities around the city and the natural beauty.

Gatlinburg is much warmer than New York City in the spring. The daily temperature in Gatlinburg averages around 62°F (17°C) in April, and New York City fluctuates around 52°F (11°C).

Gatlinburg usually gets around the same amount of rain in April as New York City. Gatlinburg gets 3.6 inches (92 mm) of rain, while New York City receives 3.8 inches (98 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for New York City and Gatlinburg