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

Should you visit Memphis or Alexandria?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Memphis or Alexandria, this travel comparison, which includes costs, can help. The overall cost of travel is usually a consideration when deciding where to go next, and the cost comparison down below can help you decide based on the average prices from other travelers along with your own travel budget.

Memphis

Memphis is a laid-back, soulful, and creative city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and live music.

Alexandria

Alexandria is a charming, quaint, and historic city. With fun activities and sights, this is a small town worth visiting. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food.

Memphis and Alexandria: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for students
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for shopping
  • Less popular with backpackers
  • Public transit not as usable
  • Less walkable
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Scenic old town
  • Fun shopping
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good public transit
  • Very walkable
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to Mount Vernon
Things to Consider
  • Less family-friendly


Is there more to do in Memphis or Alexandria?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Memphis than Alexandria. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Memphis is very popular for its nightlife, music, and big city activities, while Alexandria attracts visitors for its museums, historical sights, shopping, small town charm, and impressive beauty. Alexandria is more touristy than Memphis and is known for its long-running history, beautiful architecture, and small town atmosphere. Memphis is famous for its influential music scene and its southern barbecue. It is also well known for Elvis Presley's Graceland.

How is Memphis different from Alexandria?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Memphis or Alexandria?

Memphis
Alexandria

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

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Alexandria can be an interesting and educational experience. George Washington's Mount Vernon home is an iconic destination in Alexandria. There are also many other museums in town that focus on the region's history. The Alexandria History Museum at the Lyceum and the Gadsby's Tavern Museum are both interesting. There's Gunston Hall and the Carlyle House, as well as an archeology museum and many historic landmarks around town.

Memphis is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. Many attractions in town are related to the city's history in music. There is the famed Graceland as well as the Rock 'n' Soul Museum, the Blues Hall of Fame and Stax Museum of American Soul Music. The city also has several art museums that are worth checking out.


Is the Food Better in Memphis or Alexandria? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Memphis
Alexandria

Foodies will find both Memphis and Alexandria both to be nice destinations.

Memphis is becoming an appealing option for foodies. The town has grown into a foodie destination with excellent barbecue and ribs. There are many award winning barbecue joints, but you'll also find casual bars that serve nachos, pizza, and other quick bites.

Alexandria offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. The food, like the city itself, reflects the area's history. There are many southern classic dishes as well as a lot of seafood. You'll find lots of local restaurants that serve high quality dishes and a quaint atmosphere.

Is Memphis or Alexandria Better for Nightlife?

Memphis
Alexandria

Memphis is great for its evening party scene. Also, Alexandria is not as popular, but is still a nice city for nightlife.

Many people head to Memphis for the nightlife scene. Music is at the heart of the nightlife scene. Head to Beale Street in Memphis's downtown for the most active nightlife that usually stays open the latest. You'll also find a lot of bars and clubs in Midtown around Overton Square.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Alexandria. There's a great bar scene, as well as tons of restaurants that make for a relaxing night out.

Is Memphis or Alexandria Better for Music?

Memphis
Alexandria

Memphis is an unbeatable place for its music scene. However, Alexandria is not a live music destination.

Memphis has become a mecca for musicians from around the world. There are plenty of live music venues in the downtown area that you can explore. Several of the most famous include B.B. King's Blues Club, Handy Park Pavilion, and Blues City Cafe. The city is known for its influential role in several music genres including the blues, soul, and rock 'n' roll. There are also many music related museums and attractions in town like Graceland, the Rock 'n' Soul Museum, the Blues Hall of Fame and Stax Museum of American Soul Music.

Alexandria is not a live music destination.


Is Memphis or Alexandria Better for its Old Town?

Memphis
Alexandria

Alexandria is a world-class destination for its historic old town charm. However, Memphis does not have a historic old town.

The historic old town of Alexandria is revered around the world. At the heart of the city is the historic old town. Its lined with townhomes that date back to the 18th century. There are many historic sights that have stories from the early days of the country. There are also cobblestone streets and a great waterfront.

Memphis does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Memphis or Alexandria?

Memphis
Alexandria

Alexandria is a great city for its shopping areas. However, Memphis is not known for shopping.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in Alexandria. King Street is the main shopping street in town and it offers the largest concentration of independently owned boutiques in the Washington D.C. area. It's the perfectly place to spend an afternoon shopping.

Memphis is a good destination for shopping. The city has plenty of malls and chain stores where you can grab anything you might need.

Is Memphis or Alexandria Better for Families?

Memphis
Alexandria

Memphis is a good destination for its kid-friendly activities. However, Alexandria is not a good destination for its family-friendly activities.

Memphis offers lots of family activities. The town has some great activities for kids including a zoo, several museums, petting farms, and a botanical garden.

Alexandria is not the most family-friendly destination. The waterfront area is nice to walk around. You can break up the history with an ice cream shop and kids will also enjoy taking a boat tour.


Is Memphis or Alexandria Better for Couples?

Memphis
Alexandria

Alexandria is a great city for couples. Also, Memphis is not as popular, but is still a nice city for romance.

Alexandria is a great city if you're traveling as a couple. The charm of the old town makes this a quaint and romantic destination. There's a waterfront area and many historic buildings. There are also romantic restaurants and plenty of places to grab brunch.

Memphis is a nice destination for couples. Couples who enjoy good music and southern food will enjoy a weekend here. There are many music related landmarks including Graceland and the Rock 'n' Soul Museum. Live music is very popular as well.

Is Memphis or Alexandria Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Memphis
Alexandria

Alexandria is a nice place to visit for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Memphis is not known for backpackers.

It's common for backpackers to visit Alexandria. There aren't any true hostels in town, but you will find some cheap motels.

Memphis is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. There are a couple of hostels and plenty of live music that make this a popular stop off for young travelers.

Is Memphis or Alexandria Better for Students?

Memphis
Alexandria

Memphis is a good destination for its student-friendly activities. However, Alexandria is not popular with students.

It's common for students to visit Memphis. The live music scene and great food options make this is a fun town for students.

Alexandria is not popular with students.


Is Memphis or Alexandria Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Memphis
Alexandria

Alexandria is a world-class destination for times when you don't have a car. However, Memphis is not known for its public transit.

With a huge network, the transit system in Alexandria can get you around easily. DASH is the local bus system, but the city is also connected into the Washington DC metro system.

Public transit is generally limited in Memphis. There is a trolley and bus system that the city operates, but a car is really helpful for getting around.

Is Memphis or Alexandria a more walkable city?

Memphis
Alexandria

Alexandria is a world-class destination for its ease of walking around. Also, Memphis is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its walkability.

Alexandria is a very easy city to get around on foot. It's a very easy city to walk around, particularly in the historic heart where most tourists spend their time.

Memphis is somewhat walkable. Most of the touristy parts of town are walkable, but if you want to explore further out you'll need a car.

For even more information, also check out Is Memphis Worth Visiting? and Is Alexandria Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Alexandria or Memphis?

How long in Memphis or Alexandria?

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

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Alexandria than Memphis 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 Alexandria.


  • How many days in Memphis or Alexandria? Ideal Length of Stay
    Memphis 2-3 
    Alexandria 2-4

One day in Memphis or Alexandria?

With museums and nightlife around the laid-back city of Memphis, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. One of the main draws to the area is the live music. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

In Alexandria, you'll find nightlife and food. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. This city offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.


A weekend in Memphis or Alexandria?

With nightlife and live music around the destination of Memphis, there's plenty to do. It offers something for everyone. Many people spend a weekend here. One of the main draws to the area is the live music. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this city.

In Alexandria, you'll find food and shopping. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Visiting the old town is also a must. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Alexandria has to offer.

Five days in Memphis or Alexandria?

Memphis, 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.

Alexandria is a great place to explore. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. 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.

A week in Memphis or Alexandria?

Memphis is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. One of the main draws to the area is the live music. 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Alexandria. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Alexandria. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.


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.


Which place is cheaper, Alexandria or Memphis?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Memphis is $167, while the average daily cost in Alexandria is $0.00. 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 Memphis and Alexandria in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Memphis $84
    Alexandria $38
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Memphis $168
    Alexandria $76
Compare Hotels in Memphis and Alexandria

Looking for a hotel in Memphis or Alexandria? 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 Memphis


Hotels in Alexandria


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: Memphis Hotel Prices and Alexandria Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Memphis $59
    Alexandria -

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Memphis

Also for Memphis, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Guided Tour with Riverboat Cruise & Hotel Transfers: $339
  • Memphis Airport (MEM) to Memphis City - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $133
  • Private Arrival Transfer from Memphis Airport MEM: $72
  • Private Departure Transfer to Memphis Airport MEM: $72
  • Memphis Airport Transfers: $60

Is it cheaper to fly into Memphis or Alexandria?

Prices for flights to both Alexandria and Memphis 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
    Memphis $43
    Alexandria -
Typical Food Prices in Memphis

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


  • Baskin Robins (for 2)
    $6.00

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Memphis

For Memphis, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Taste of Downtown Memphis Food Tour: $75

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Memphis $45
    Alexandria -

Tours and Activities in Memphis

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

  • 2.5 Hours Essence of Memphis African American History Tour: $72
  • Amazing Scavenger Hunt Adventure - Memphis: $44
  • Beale Street & Sun Studio: Private Half-Day Walking Tour: $160
  • Beale Street Experience Audio App Self Guided Walking Tour: $7.75
  • Beale Street Guided Walking Tour: $22
  • Best of Memphis Walking Tour: $149
  • Downtown Memphis : Ultimate Party Experience - Public: $35
  • Downtown Memphis : Ultimate Private Party Experience: $387
  • Elvis Presley's Childhood Home Sightseeing Daytrip from Memphis: $111
  • Elvis Unleashed: Private Elvis Walking Tour: $150
  • From Tupelo Elvis Presley's Upbringing Tour: $102
  • Guided Memphis City Tour with Riverboat Cruise along Mississippi River: $85

Tours and Activities in Alexandria

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

  • A Walk in Washington's Footsteps History Tour: $32
  • American Revolution Guided Walking Tour: $30
  • Full-Day Bike Tour to Mt Vernon w/ Optional Boat: $68
  • Phantoms of the Potomac Walking Tour: $26
  • Private Tour of George Washington's Mount Vernon: $165
  • Ultimate Dead of Night Walking Ghost Tour: $38
  • Old Town Alexandria Tour: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $5.99
  • Old Town Southern Comfort Food & History Tour: $127
  • Philadelphia Tour from Alexandria by Rail: $329

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Memphis $26
    Alexandria -

Sample the Local Flavors in Memphis

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

  • Drinking Spirits with Spirits Haunted Pub Crawl: $27
  • Haunted Pub Crawl in Memphis: $27
  • Memphis Signature Guided Brewery Tour: $59
  • Signature Guided Brewery Tour: $62

Sample the Local Flavors in Alexandria

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

  • Ghosts Boos and Booze Haunted Pub Crawl: $35


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Memphis and Alexandria, we can see that Memphis is more expensive. And not only is Alexandria much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Alexandria would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Alexandria 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 Memphis would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Memphis than you might in Alexandria.

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


Which is Bigger, Memphis or Alexandria?

Memphis has a larger population, and is about 5 times larger than the population of Alexandria. When comparing the sizes of Memphis and Alexandria, 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 Memphis or Alexandria?

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 Memphis or Alexandria in the Summer?

Both Alexandria and Memphis are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Memphis for the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Alexandria in the summer for the small town charm and the family-friendly experiences.

Memphis is around the same temperature as Alexandria in the summer. The daily temperature in Memphis averages around 83°F (29°C) in July, and Alexandria fluctuates around 79°F (26°C).

It's quite sunny in Alexandria. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Memphis. Memphis usually receives more sunshine than Alexandria during summer. Memphis gets 328 hours of sunny skies, while Alexandria receives 278 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Memphis usually receives less rain than Alexandria. Memphis gets 2.9 inches (73 mm) of rain, while Alexandria receives 3.5 inches (88 mm) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Memphis 83°F (29°C) 
    Alexandria 79°F (26°C)

Should I visit Memphis or Alexandria in the Autumn?

Both Alexandria and Memphis during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Memphis in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the music scene. Furthermore, most visitors come to Alexandria for the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

In the autumn, Memphis is a little warmer than Alexandria. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Memphis in October average around 64°F (18°C), and Alexandria averages at about 60°F (15°C).

It's quite sunny in Memphis. In the autumn, Memphis often gets more sunshine than Alexandria. Memphis gets 240 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Alexandria receives 197 hours of full sun.

Memphis usually gets less rain in October than Alexandria. Memphis gets 1.6 inches (41 mm) of rain, while Alexandria receives 2.9 inches (73 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Memphis 64°F (18°C) 
    Alexandria 60°F (15°C)

Should I visit Memphis or Alexandria in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Memphis and Alexandria. Most visitors come to Memphis for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Furthermore, the winter months attract visitors to Alexandria because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

The weather in Alexandria can be very cold. Memphis can be very cold during winter. In January, Memphis is generally much warmer than Alexandria. Daily temperatures in Memphis average around 40°F (5°C), and Alexandria fluctuates around 35°F (1°C).

Memphis usually receives more sunshine than Alexandria during winter. Memphis gets 163 hours of sunny skies, while Alexandria receives 139 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Memphis usually receives less rain than Alexandria. Memphis gets 2.4 inches (62 mm) of rain, while Alexandria receives 2.7 inches (68 mm) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Memphis 40°F (5°C) 
    Alexandria 35°F (1°C)

Should I visit Memphis or Alexandria in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Memphis as well as Alexandria. The spring months attract visitors to Memphis because of the activities around the city. Additionally, the small town charm and the natural beauty are the main draw to Alexandria this time of year.

Memphis is a little warmer than Alexandria in the spring. The daily temperature in Memphis averages around 64°F (18°C) in April, and Alexandria fluctuates around 56°F (14°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Alexandria. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Memphis this time of the year. In the spring, Memphis often gets more sunshine than Alexandria. Memphis gets 254 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Alexandria receives 228 hours of full sun.

Memphis receives a lot of rain in the spring. Memphis usually gets more rain in April than Alexandria. Memphis gets 4.3 inches (109 mm) of rain, while Alexandria receives 2.8 inches (72 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Memphis 64°F (18°C) 
    Alexandria 56°F (14°C)

Typical Weather for Alexandria and Memphis

Memphis Alexandria
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 40°F (5°C) 2.4 inches (62 mm) 35°F (1°C) 2.7 inches (68 mm)
Feb 45°F (7°C) 3.3 inches (85 mm) 37°F (3°C) 2.7 inches (69 mm)
Mar 54°F (12°C) 4.2 inches (106 mm) 47°F (8°C) 3.2 inches (82 mm)
Apr 64°F (18°C) 4.3 inches (109 mm) 56°F (14°C) 2.8 inches (72 mm)
May 72°F (22°C) 3.3 inches (84 mm) 66°F (19°C) 3.5 inches (89 mm)
Jun 80°F (27°C) 2.3 inches (58 mm) 75°F (24°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm)
Jul 83°F (29°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm) 79°F (26°C) 3.5 inches (88 mm)
Aug 82°F (28°C) 2.8 inches (72 mm) 78°F (26°C) 3.9 inches (98 mm)
Sep 76°F (24°C) 2.6 inches (66 mm) 71°F (22°C) 3.3 inches (85 mm)
Oct 64°F (18°C) 1.6 inches (41 mm) 60°F (15°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm)
Nov 54°F (12°C) 2.6 inches (65 mm) 50°F (10°C) 3.2 inches (82 mm)
Dec 44°F (7°C) 4.1 inches (105 mm) 39°F (4°C) 3.2 inches (82 mm)