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

Should you visit Memphis or Newport?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Memphis or Newport, 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 live music, food, and museums.

Newport

Newport is a charming, coastal, and seaside town. With fun activities and sights, this is a small town worth visiting. It offers plenty of beauty for visitors. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food.

Memphis and Newport: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for students
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for shopping
  • Less popular with couples
  • Less popular with backpackers
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Popular beach
  • Scenic old town
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with backpackers


Is there more to do in Memphis or Newport?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Memphis. Although Memphis and Newport are popular destinations, Memphis has more sights and attractions for tourists. Memphis is very popular for its nightlife, music, and big city activities, while Newport attracts visitors for its museums, food, beaches, historical sights, shopping, small town charm, and impressive beauty. Newport is more touristy than Memphis and is known for its sailing regattas, its mansions along Bellevue Avenue, and its maritime history. 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 Newport?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Newport 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 Newport?

Memphis
Newport

Newport is a great town 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 Newport can be an interesting and educational experience. The historic mansions and local museums educate visitors on the town's maritime past and colonial roots. Some of the more popular places to visit include The Breakers, The Elms Mansion, The Marble House, and Chateau-sur-mer Mansion.

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 Newport? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Memphis
Newport

Newport is a great town for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Memphis is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Newport has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. Find a waterfront restaurant and enjoy fresh seafood and a charming atmosphere. Many restaurants are influenced by the town's Portuguese and Irish roots. You'll find classic pubs as well as brunch cafes and traditional taverns.

Memphis offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. 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.

Is Memphis or Newport Better for Nightlife?

Memphis
Newport

Memphis is a very popular place for its evening party scene. Also, Newport is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for nightlife.

Memphis has a large number of nightlife venues. 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.

Newport has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. There's a lively atmosphere in the evening with many pubs, taverns, and bars that keep the energy high.

Is Memphis or Newport Better for Music?

Memphis
Newport

Memphis is terrific for its music scene. However, Newport 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.

Newport is not a live music destination.


Is Memphis or Newport Better for Beaches?

Memphis
Newport

Newport is a great town for the beach. However, Memphis is not a beach destination.

You'll have a great beach vacation in Newport. Tucked in along the rocky coastline are many beautiful sandy beaches. You'll find popular and active beaches where you can lounge in a chair and people watch, as well as more secluded spots where you can enjoy a more peaceful setting. The largest beach is Easton's Beach (also known as First Beach). Surfers and boaters enjoy Sachuest Beach (or Second Beach), and a less popular, but very rewarding beach is also King Park Beach.

Memphis is not a beach destination.

Is Memphis or Newport Better for its Old Town?

Memphis
Newport

Newport is a great town for its historic old town charm. However, Memphis does not have a historic old town.

Many visitors go to Newport to see the historical old town. The Historic District is filled with colonial buildings and impressive mansions. There are cobblestone streets and a charming loop through the town's Old Quarter.

Memphis does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Memphis or Newport?

Memphis
Newport

Newport is a great town for its shopping areas. However, Memphis is not known for shopping.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in Newport. Walk along the charming cobblestone streets and pop in the many local boutiques and shops.

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 Newport Better for Families?

Memphis
Newport

Newport is a great town for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Memphis is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its family-friendly activities.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Newport. For an educational and interactive experience, head to Save The Bay Exploration Center & Aquarium. The Norman Bird Sanctuary also has a lot of land and places to explore. Kids will enjoy a visit to the beach or running around Breton Point State Park as well. On a rainy day, Ryans Family Amusements is the perfect way to pass some time.

Memphis is a family-friendly place to visit. The town has some great activities for kids including a zoo, several museums, petting farms, and a botanical garden.

Is Memphis or Newport Better for Couples?

Memphis
Newport

Newport is a world-class destination for couples. Also, Memphis is not as popular, but is still a nice city for romance.

Newport has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. It's a coastal town with a lot of charm that makes for a perfect romantic escape. Enjoy dining and shopping along Thames Street or take a walk along the coast. There are many local restaurants and evening activities for couples as well.

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 Newport Better for Students?

Memphis
Newport

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

Plenty of students visit Memphis. The live music scene and great food options make this is a fun town for students.

Newport is not popular with students.


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

Memphis
Newport

Newport is a nice place to visit for times when you don't have a car. However, Memphis is not known for its public transit.

While Newport offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There are buses operated by RIPTA. You can visit most of the attractions in the downtown area by catching a ride on one of the classic green and gold hybrid trolley buses.

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 Newport a more walkable city?

Memphis
Newport

Newport is a great town for its ease of walking around. Also, Memphis is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its walkability.

Newport is a very walkable destination. The town's downtown are compact and fun to explore on foot. There is a nice concentration of shops, restaurants, hotels and sights.

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 Newport Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Newport or Memphis?

How long in Memphis or Newport?

In either Memphis or Newport, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Newport than Memphis because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Memphis, and 2-5 days is enough time in Newport.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Newport 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 Newport.


  • How many days in Memphis or Newport? Ideal Length of Stay
    Memphis 2-3 
    Newport 2-5

One day in Memphis or Newport?

In Memphis, you'll find nightlife and live music. One reason most visitors come is for the live music. This city offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

In Newport, you'll find nightlife and food. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. This town 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 Newport?

In Memphis, you'll find live music and food. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. One reason most visitors come is for the live music. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Memphis has to offer.

In Newport, 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 Newport has to offer.

Five days in Memphis or Newport?

Memphis is a great place to explore. 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.

Newport is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Newport has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

A week in Memphis or Newport?

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

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Newport. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Newport. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. 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, Newport 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 Newport is $159. 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 Newport in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Memphis $84
    Newport $92
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Memphis $168
    Newport $184
Compare Hotels in Memphis and Newport

Looking for a hotel in Memphis or Newport? 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 Newport


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 Newport Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Memphis $59
    Newport $36

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Memphis

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

  • Private Departure Transfer to Memphis Airport MEM: $72
  • Private Arrival Transfer from Memphis Airport MEM: $72
  • Guided Tour with Riverboat Cruise & Hotel Transfers: $339
  • Memphis Airport Transfers: $60
  • Memphis Airport MEM to Hot Springs Resorts Round-Trip Transfer: $285
  • Memphis Airport (MEM) to Memphis City - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $133

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Newport

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

  • Private Transfer from Newport Port to Boston Logan Airport (BOS) : $88
  • Private Transfer from Newport Cruise Port to Boston city hotels: $88
  • Private Transfer from Newport Port to Providence city Hotels: $61
  • Private Transfer from Newport Port to Providence Airport (PVD): $49

Is it cheaper to fly into Memphis or Newport?

Prices for flights to both Newport 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
    Newport $45
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

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Newport

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

  • Newport Neighborhood Food Tour: $89

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Memphis $45
    Newport $17

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: $430
  • 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 Newport

For Newport, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • Newport Ghosts: Seaside Hauntings and Hags Tour: $27
  • Afternoon Grand Tour | Gansett Cruises in Newport, RI: $38
  • Discover Newport's Grandeur: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $11
  • Downtown Westerly Ghost Tour: $30
  • Evening Voyage with Gansett Cruises in Newport, RI: $45
  • Historic Highlights with the Gilded Age Private Van Tour: $225
  • Lighthouse and Mimosa Cruise of Narragansett Bay from Newport: $42
  • Morning Mimosa Cruise with Gansett Cruises in Newport, RI: $38
  • Morning Mimosa Sightseeing Sail on Schooner Madeleine in Newport: $45
  • Newport Afternoon Sightseeing Sail on Classic Sailboat: $45
  • Newport Beach Private Tour & Whale Watching Cruise: $395
  • Newport Cliff Walk & Ocean Drive Self-Guided Tours Bundle: $14

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Memphis $26
    Newport $14

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: $69
  • Signature Guided Brewery Tour: $69


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


Which is Bigger, Memphis or Newport?

Memphis has a larger population, and is about 30 times larger than the population of Newport. When comparing the sizes of Memphis and Newport, 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 Newport?

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 Newport in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Memphis and Newport. Most visitors come to Memphis for the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Newport because of the beaches, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences.

Memphis is a little warmer than Newport in the summer. The daily temperature in Memphis averages around 83°F (29°C) in July, and Newport fluctuates around 73°F (23°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Newport this time of the year. In Memphis, it's very sunny this time of the year. Memphis usually receives more sunshine than Newport during summer. Memphis gets 328 hours of sunny skies, while Newport receives 293 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Memphis usually receives around the same amount of rain as Newport. Memphis gets 2.9 inches (73 mm) of rain, while Newport receives 2.8 inches (72 mm) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Memphis 83°F (29°C) 
    Newport 73°F (23°C)

Should I visit Memphis or Newport in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Memphis as well as Newport. The autumn months attract visitors to Memphis because of the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the music scene. Also, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Newport this time of year.

In the autumn, Memphis is much warmer than Newport. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Memphis in October average around 64°F (18°C), and Newport averages at about 53°F (12°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Newport. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Memphis this time of the year. In the autumn, Memphis often gets more sunshine than Newport. Memphis gets 240 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Newport receives 211 hours of full sun.

Memphis usually gets less rain in October than Newport. Memphis gets 1.6 inches (41 mm) of rain, while Newport receives 3.3 inches (83 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Memphis 64°F (18°C) 
    Newport 53°F (12°C)

Should I visit Memphis or Newport in the Winter?

Both Newport and Memphis are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Memphis this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Newport for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Newport. It's quite cold in Memphis in the winter. In January, Memphis is generally much warmer than Newport. Daily temperatures in Memphis average around 40°F (5°C), and Newport fluctuates around 28°F (-2°C).

Memphis usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Newport during winter. Memphis gets 163 hours of sunny skies, while Newport receives 170 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Memphis usually receives less rain than Newport. Memphis gets 2.4 inches (62 mm) of rain, while Newport receives 3.5 inches (89 mm) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Memphis 40°F (5°C) 
    Newport 28°F (-2°C)

Should I visit Memphis or Newport in the Spring?

Both Newport and Memphis during the spring are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Memphis for the activities around the city. Furthermore, many visitors come to Newport in the spring for the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty.

Memphis is much warmer than Newport in the spring. The daily temperature in Memphis averages around 64°F (18°C) in April, and Newport fluctuates around 48°F (9°C).

In Newport, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Memphis. In the spring, Memphis often gets more sunshine than Newport. Memphis gets 254 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Newport receives 225 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Memphis. Memphis usually gets more rain in April than Newport. Memphis gets 4.3 inches (109 mm) of rain, while Newport receives 3.7 inches (94 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Memphis 64°F (18°C) 
    Newport 48°F (9°C)

Typical Weather for Newport and Memphis

Memphis Newport
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 40°F (5°C) 2.4 inches (62 mm) 28°F (-2°C) 3.5 inches (89 mm)
Feb 45°F (7°C) 3.3 inches (85 mm) 30°F (-1°C) 3.5 inches (88 mm)
Mar 54°F (12°C) 4.2 inches (106 mm) 38°F (3°C) 4 inches (101 mm)
Apr 64°F (18°C) 4.3 inches (109 mm) 48°F (9°C) 3.7 inches (94 mm)
May 72°F (22°C) 3.3 inches (84 mm) 58°F (15°C) 3.5 inches (89 mm)
Jun 80°F (27°C) 2.3 inches (58 mm) 67°F (20°C) 2.6 inches (67 mm)
Jul 83°F (29°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm) 73°F (23°C) 2.8 inches (72 mm)
Aug 82°F (28°C) 2.8 inches (72 mm) 72°F (22°C) 3.9 inches (99 mm)
Sep 76°F (24°C) 2.6 inches (66 mm) 64°F (18°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm)
Oct 64°F (18°C) 1.6 inches (41 mm) 53°F (12°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm)
Nov 54°F (12°C) 2.6 inches (65 mm) 44°F (7°C) 4.5 inches (115 mm)
Dec 44°F (7°C) 4.1 inches (105 mm) 33°F (0°C) 4.1 inches (105 mm)