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

Should you visit Philadelphia or Memphis?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Philadelphia or Memphis, 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.

Philadelphia

Philadelphia is a cultural, diverse, and historic city. As it's a big city, visitors will find plenty to do, too. It offers plenty of beauty for visitors. It's also popular because of the theater, nightlife, and live music.

Memphis

Memphis is a creative, laid-back, and soulful city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. Visitors also love the live music, food, and museums.

Philadelphia and Memphis: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Philadelphia or Memphis?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Philadelphia than Memphis, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Philadelphia is more popular for its museums, theatre productions, food, historical sights, shopping, christmas markets, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Memphis is known for its music. Philadelphia is more touristy than Memphis and is known for its diverse population, large number of universities, great restaurant and market scene, and its role in American history. It is also home to The Liberty Bell. Memphis is popular for its influential music scene and its southern barbecue.

How is Philadelphia different from Memphis?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Philadelphia is a world-class destination for its historical sights. Also, Memphis is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its sights and museums.

With plenty of landmarks, attractions, and museums, Philadelphia has many famous sights for visitors. The city has a rich history with a number of museums and monuments. Popular sites around the city include the Liberty Bell, Independence Hall, the Philadelphia Museum of Art, and the National Museum of Jewish American History.

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 Philadelphia or Memphis Better for Theater?

Philadelphia is a great city for its shows and theatre. However, Memphis is not a theatre destination.

Many visitors plan to see a show while visiting Philadelphia. There are major Broadway shows as well as smaller venues. Head to The Avenue of the Arts along Broad Street for a popular stretch of theaters.

Memphis is not a theatre destination.

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

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

Philadelphia has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. It has grown into a well-recognized food destination. It's diversity of cultures and residents have influenced the restaurant scene and you'll find many great places to dine covering a number of international flavors. The city is famous for its Philly cheesesteak and roast pork sandwich. You can also grab some local favorites at Reading Terminal Market.

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 Philadelphia or Memphis Better for Nightlife?

Both Philadelphia and Memphis have superb vibes after the sun sets.

Philadelphia has a lively atmosphere and nightlife is popular here. The city's nightlife scene carries late into the evening with many rooftop and outdoor beer gardens. Most of the clubs and bars are found in the downtown area and you'll find places to dance, listen to live music, or sip a trendy cocktails.

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.

Is Philadelphia or Memphis Better for Music?

Memphis is a must-visit destination for its live music scene. Also, Philadelphia is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its music scene.

With so many music venues, you're guaranteed a show any night of the week in Memphis. 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.

Philadelphia has become a hotbed of musicians and artists. The city's diverse music scene includes jazz, rock, and hip hop.

Is Philadelphia or Memphis Better for its Old Town?

Philadelphia is a nice place to visit for its historic old town charm. However, Memphis does not have a historic old town.

Philadelphia has an old town worth visiting. The Old City has a number of Colonial-era sites including Independence Hall, the Liberty Bell, the Betsy Ross House.

Memphis does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Philadelphia or Memphis?

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

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in Philadelphia. With all items tax-free, this city is a great place to shop. It has many boutique shops as well as name brand stores and shopping areas. For a local vibe, head to Reading Terminal Market.

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 Philadelphia or Memphis Better for Christmas?

Philadelphia is a great city for its Christmas holiday experiences. However, Memphis does not offer Christmas activities.

Philadelphia is a very popular destination during Christmas. There are a number of holiday events, light shows, and festivals during the holiday season.

Memphis does not offer Christmas activities.

Is Philadelphia or Memphis Better for Christmas Markets?

Philadelphia is a nice place to visit for visiting Christmas markets. However, Memphis does not offer Christmas markets.

Philadelphia has Christmas markets worth visiting. The city has its own German style Christmas market at Love Park and City Hall. It hosts over 80 vendors.

Memphis does not offer Christmas markets.

Is Philadelphia or Memphis Better for Families?

Philadelphia is a great city 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 Philadelphia. The city has many museums and a fascinating history that is interesting to kids and adults alike. Popular activities include a zoo and Sesame Place. Kids also love the hands-on Please Touch Museum.

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 Philadelphia or Memphis Better for Couples?

Philadelphia and Memphis are both good to visit as a couple.

Philadelphia makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Like many large cities, it is a fun place to explore in the evening as a couple. This is also a great foodie destination with great markets, food trucks, and diverse restaurants that reflect the city's diverse population.

Memphis is a good city for couples to visit. 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 Philadelphia or Memphis Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Philadelphia 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 Philadelphia. There are a few good hostels for backpackers and budget travelers to choose from.

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 Philadelphia or Memphis Better for Students?

Philadelphia is a great city for its student-friendly activities. Also, Memphis is not as popular, but is still a nice city for students.

Philadelphia is a great city to visit as a student. With its many universities and diverse population, this city is a great place for international students.

Memphis is a good city to visit for students. The live music scene and great food options make this is a fun town for students.

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

Philadelphia is a great city for times when you don't have a car. However, Memphis is not known for its public transit.

Philadelphia offers a very effecient public transportation network. The system includes a subway, trolleys, buses, and a commuter rail.

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 Philadelphia or Memphis a more walkable city?

Philadelphia 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.

Philadelphia is a very easy city to get around on foot. The Old City is particularly walkable, as is Avenue of the Arts, and Rittenhouse Square.

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 Philadelphia Worth Visiting? and Is Memphis Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Memphis or Philadelphia?

How long in Philadelphia or Memphis?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Philadelphia and Memphis. In our opinion, Philadelphia has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Philadelphia than Memphis. However, 2-3 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

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

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

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

One day in Philadelphia or Memphis?

Because Philadelphia is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. One reason most visitors come is for the museums. This city offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

In Memphis, many people enjoy the live music and food that this creative city offers. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

A weekend in Philadelphia or Memphis?

Because Philadelphia is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. 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 museums. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Philadelphia has to offer.

Memphis is a fun place to experience. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. Lots of people come for the live music. So, a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

Five days in Philadelphia or Memphis?

Philadelphia 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.

You'll find museums and nightlife around the creative destination of Memphis. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Lots of people come for the live music. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days.

A week in Philadelphia or Memphis?

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

Memphis is a popular place to visit. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Sightseeing Tours in United States of America, The Best Cruise Tours and Packages in United States of America, The Best Cultural Tours in United States of America, and The Best Photography Tours in United States of America.

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

Which is Bigger, Philadelphia or Memphis?

Philadelphia has a larger population, and is about 2 times larger than the population of Memphis. When comparing the sizes of Philadelphia and Memphis, 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 Philadelphia or Memphis?

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 Philadelphia or Memphis in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Philadelphia and Memphis. The summer months attract visitors to Philadelphia because of the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Memphis this time of year.

In the summer, Philadelphia is cooler than Memphis. Typically, the summer temperatures in Philadelphia in July average around 77°F (25°C), and Memphis averages at about 83°F (29°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Memphis this time of the year. In Philadelphia, it's very sunny this time of the year. Philadelphia usually receives less sunshine than Memphis during summer. Philadelphia gets 273 hours of sunny skies, while Memphis receives 328 hours of full sun in the summer.

Philadelphia gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In July, Philadelphia usually receives more rain than Memphis. Philadelphia gets 3.9 inches (100 mm) of rain, while Memphis receives 2.9 inches (73 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Philadelphia or Memphis in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Philadelphia as well as Memphis. The city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Philadelphia this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Memphis for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the music scene.

In October, Philadelphia is generally cooler than Memphis. Daily temperatures in Philadelphia average around 56°F (14°C), and Memphis fluctuates around 64°F (18°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Memphis. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Philadelphia this time of the year. In the autumn, Philadelphia often gets less sunshine than Memphis. Philadelphia gets 202 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Memphis receives 240 hours of full sun.

Philadelphia usually gets more rain in October than Memphis. Philadelphia gets 1.9 inches (48 mm) of rain, while Memphis receives 1.6 inches (41 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Philadelphia or Memphis in the Winter?

Both Memphis and Philadelphia are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Philadelphia for the museums, the Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Memphis in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Memphis can get quite cold in the winter. Be prepared for some very cold days in Philadelphia. Philadelphia is much colder than Memphis in the winter. The daily temperature in Philadelphia averages around 30°F (-1°C) in January, and Memphis fluctuates around 40°F (5°C).

Philadelphia usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Memphis during winter. Philadelphia gets 152 hours of sunny skies, while Memphis receives 163 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Philadelphia usually receives around the same amount of rain as Memphis. Philadelphia gets 2.3 inches (58 mm) of rain, while Memphis receives 2.4 inches (62 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Philadelphia or Memphis in the Spring?

Both Memphis and Philadelphia during the spring are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Philadelphia in the spring for the activities around the city and the natural beauty. Furthermore, most visitors come to Memphis for the activities around the city during these months.

In the spring, Philadelphia is much colder than Memphis. Typically, the spring temperatures in Philadelphia in April average around 52°F (11°C), and Memphis averages at about 64°F (18°C).

In Memphis, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Philadelphia. In the spring, Philadelphia often gets less sunshine than Memphis. Philadelphia gets 216 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Memphis receives 254 hours of full sun.

Memphis gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Philadelphia usually gets less rain in April than Memphis. Philadelphia gets 2.8 inches (70 mm) of rain, while Memphis receives 4.3 inches (109 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Memphis and Philadelphia