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

Should you visit Memphis or Norfolk?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Memphis or Norfolk, 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 soulful, creative, and laid-back city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. It's also known for food, museums, and nightlife.

Norfolk

Norfolk is a authentic, blue collar, and maritime city. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food.

Memphis and Norfolk: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Memphis or Norfolk?

You'll generally find more things to do in Memphis than Norfolk. Memphis is bigger than Norfolk, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Memphis is better known for its nightlife, music, and big city activities, while Norfolk is more popular for its shopping. Memphis is well known for its influential music scene and its southern barbecue. Also, Memphis is famous for Elvis Presley's Graceland. Norfolk is well known for its naval base and military presence.

How is Memphis different from Norfolk?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

You'll find a number of notable museums and attractions in both Norfolk and Memphis.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Memphis. 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.

Norfolk is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. There are some interesting museums in town like the Chrysler Museum, the Hampton Roads Naval Museum, and the Norfolk Police and Fire Museum. You should also check out the Nauticus and the Battleship Wisconsin.

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

Foodies will find both Memphis and Norfolk both to be notable 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.

Norfolk offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. You'll find a decent collection of restaurants in the downtown area. Food options include local seafood, brunch, casual eateries, and fine dining.

Is Memphis or Norfolk Better for Nightlife?

Memphis is a great destination for nightlife. Also, Norfolk is still popular, but not quite as popular for nightlife and partying.

The people in Memphis know how to have a good time. 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.

If you're looking for night time activities Norfolk has a few options to choose from. Downtown is where you'll find the most busy nightlife venues. The city has great breweries, and the live music scene has taken off. There are also lounges, dance clubs, and wine bars to choose from.

Is Memphis or Norfolk Better for Music?

Memphis is a must-visit destination for live music. However, Norfolk is not a live music destination.

Memphis is a world class music destination. 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.

Norfolk is not a live music destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Memphis or Norfolk?

Norfolk is a nice place to visit for its shopping areas. However, Memphis is not known for shopping.

Norfolk has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. There's a mix of shopping malls, local boutiques, farmer's markets, and shopping centers around town.

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 Norfolk Better for Families?

Memphis and Norfolk are both notable destinations for the whole family.

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.

Norfolk is a family-friendly place to visit. The Norfolk Zoo is always a hit with kids. You should also visit the USS Wisconsin which offers tours, as well as the Douglas MacArthur Memorial Museum.

Is Memphis or Norfolk Better for Couples?

Memphis is a popular place for romance. However, Norfolk is a city with minimal options for its romantic activities.

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.

Most people don't think of Norfolk as a couple's destination. There are some nice hotels and several great parks and outdoor activities.

Is Memphis or Norfolk Better for Students?

Memphis is a popular place for students. However, Norfolk is not popular with students.

Memphis is popular with students. The live music scene and great food options make this is a fun town for students.

Norfolk is not popular with students.

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

Memphis and Norfolk both offer respectable public transit to get you around.

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

Public transit is generally limited in Norfolk. While there are buses, ferries, and even lightrail in the area, you really want to have a car to get around.

Is Memphis or Norfolk a more walkable city?

Memphis and Norfolk are notable when it comes to walkability.

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

Norfolk is somewhat walkable. Downtown is the most walkable part of the city.

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

Should I spend more time in Norfolk or Memphis?

How long in Memphis or Norfolk?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Memphis or Norfolk to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Memphis than Norfolk because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Memphis, and 1-2 days is enough time in Norfolk.

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

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

One day in Memphis or Norfolk?

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 Norfolk, you'll find nightlife and food. This city offers something for everyone. This would be the perfect place to spend one day, as it has just the right amount of activities.

A weekend in Memphis or Norfolk?

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

Five days in Memphis or Norfolk?

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.

Norfolk 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.

A week in Memphis or Norfolk?

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 Norfolk. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Norfolk. 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.

When comparing the travel costs between Memphis and Norfolk, 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 Norfolk Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Memphis or Norfolk?

Memphis has a larger population, and is about 3 times larger than the population of Norfolk. When comparing the sizes of Memphis and Norfolk, 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 Norfolk?

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 Memphis or Norfolk in the Summer?

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

In the summer, Memphis is around the same temperature as Norfolk. Typically, the summer temperatures in Memphis in July average around 83°F (29°C), and Norfolk averages at about 79°F (26°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Norfolk. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Memphis this time of the year. In the summer, Memphis often gets more sunshine than Norfolk. Memphis gets 328 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Norfolk receives 279 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Norfolk. Memphis usually gets less rain in July than Norfolk. Memphis gets 2.9 inches (73 mm) of rain, while Norfolk receives 5.7 inches (145 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Memphis or Norfolk in the Autumn?

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

In October, Memphis is generally around the same temperature as Norfolk. Daily temperatures in Memphis average around 64°F (18°C), and Norfolk fluctuates around 62°F (16°C).

It's quite sunny in Norfolk. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Memphis. Memphis usually receives more sunshine than Norfolk during autumn. Memphis gets 240 hours of sunny skies, while Norfolk receives 211 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Memphis usually receives less rain than Norfolk. Memphis gets 1.6 inches (41 mm) of rain, while Norfolk receives 3.1 inches (78 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Memphis or Norfolk in the Winter?

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

It's quite cold in Norfolk in the winter. The weather in Memphis can be very cold. Memphis is a little warmer than Norfolk in the winter. The daily temperature in Memphis averages around 40°F (5°C) in January, and Norfolk fluctuates around 39°F (4°C).

In the winter, Memphis often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Norfolk. Memphis gets 163 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Norfolk receives 168 hours of full sun.

Memphis usually gets less rain in January than Norfolk. Memphis gets 2.4 inches (62 mm) of rain, while Norfolk receives 3.3 inches (85 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Memphis or Norfolk in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Memphis and Norfolk. The activities around the city are the main draw to Memphis this time of year.

In the spring, Memphis is a little warmer than Norfolk. Typically, the spring temperatures in Memphis in April average around 64°F (18°C), and Norfolk averages at about 58°F (14°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Norfolk this time of the year. In Memphis, it's very sunny this time of the year. Memphis usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Norfolk during spring. Memphis gets 254 hours of sunny skies, while Norfolk receives 253 hours of full sun in the spring.

Memphis gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In April, Memphis usually receives more rain than Norfolk. Memphis gets 4.3 inches (109 mm) of rain, while Norfolk receives 2.7 inches (69 mm) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Norfolk and Memphis