A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Saint Simons vs. Memphis for Food, Nightlife, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Saint Simons or Memphis?

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

Should I visit Saint Simons or Memphis? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

Saint Simons

Saint Simons is a scenic, relaxing, and laid back island. With plenty of activities and sights, this is a small town worth visiting. It offers plenty of beauty for visitors. It's also popular because of the shopping, food, and beaches.

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.

Saint Simons and Memphis: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Nice resorts
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Small town charm
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less popular with backpackers
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


Is there more to do in Saint Simons or Memphis?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Memphis than Saint Simons, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Memphis is better known for its museums, nightlife, music, and big city activities, while Saint Simons is more popular for its food, resorts, beaches, hiking, shopping, small town charm, and impressive beauty. Saint Simons is more touristy than Memphis and is popular for its beaches, charter fishing, and golf courses. Memphis is well known for its influential music scene and its southern barbecue. Also, Memphis is famous for Elvis Presley's Graceland.

How is Saint Simons different from Memphis?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Saint Simons or Memphis?

Saint Simons
Memphis

Memphis is a popular place for its museums and landmarks. However, Saint Simons is a island with minimal options for its historical sights.

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.

While most people don't head to Saint Simons specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. St. Simons Lighthouse is a highlight for many visitors. There's a maritime museum attached to the lighthouse as well. Fort Frederica National Monument is another historic site that is worth a visit.


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

Saint Simons
Memphis

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

Saint Simons has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. There are more than 70 restaurants on the island that range from cafes to fine dining. You can enjoy an eggs benedict for brunch, crab cakes for lunch, and shrimp and grits for dinner. Many restaurants take advantage of the mild climate by offering outdoor seating. There are also several dessert places with ice cream or donuts.

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 Saint Simons or Memphis Better for Nightlife?

Saint Simons
Memphis

Memphis is a great destination for nightlife. However, Saint Simons is a island with minimal options 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.

Saint Simons doesn't have the most active nightlife scene. There are several family-friendly bars with laid back atmospheres around town, but if you're looking for a wild night out, there aren't a lot of places to go.

Is Saint Simons or Memphis Better for Music?

Saint Simons
Memphis

Memphis is an unbeatable place for live music. However, Saint Simons 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.

Saint Simons is not a live music destination.


Is Saint Simons or Memphis Better for Resorts?

Saint Simons
Memphis

Saint Simons is a nice place to visit for its luxury resorts. However, Memphis is not a resort destination.

Saint Simons has a few great resort options. There are a handful of nice resorts with pools and beachfront settings.

Memphis is not a resort destination.

Is Saint Simons or Memphis Better for Beaches?

Saint Simons
Memphis

Saint Simons is a great island for the beach. However, Memphis is not a beach destination.

You'll have a great beach vacation in Saint Simons. There's golden sand and a beautiful setting. Visitors enjoy swimming or walking along the coastline. You'll also find piers and playgrounds. East Beach is one of the most popular.

Memphis is not a beach destination.

Is Saint Simons or Memphis Better for Hiking?

Saint Simons
Memphis

Saint Simons is a nice place to visit for hiking. However, Memphis is not a hiking destination.

Saint Simons has hiking trails worth exploring. There are several parks and natural areas where you can enjoy a walk in nature. Cannon's Point Preserve has a nice trail system. Other trails on the island include John Gilbert Nature Trail, Earth Day Nature Trail, and Wanderer Memorial Trail.

Memphis is not a hiking destination.


Is the Shopping Better in Saint Simons or Memphis?

Saint Simons
Memphis

Saint Simons is a great island for its shopping areas. However, Memphis is not known for shopping.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in Saint Simons. You'll find a good concentration of gift shops and clothing boutiques on the island. Antiquing is also popular. Head to Pier Village for a nice mix of 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 Saint Simons or Memphis Better for Families?

Saint Simons
Memphis

Saint Simons is a great island 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 Saint Simons. The beaches are kid-friendly and there are many family-friendly restaurants in town. There's also the St. Simons Lighthouse, minigolf, and kayaking, as well as Neptune Park Fun Zone.

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 Saint Simons or Memphis Better for Couples?

Saint Simons
Memphis

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

Saint Simons is a great island if you're traveling as a couple. There are romantic restaurants, beautiful beaches, and nice hotels. Sunset walks on the beach or a round of golf all make this a favorite couple's destination.

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 Saint Simons or Memphis Better for Students?

Saint Simons
Memphis

Memphis is a popular place for students. However, Saint Simons 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.

Saint Simons is not popular with students.

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

Saint Simons
Memphis

Memphis is a city with a few options for its public transit. However, Saint Simons is a island with minimal options for times when you don't have a car.

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.

Public transit is quite limited in Saint Simons. While there are trolley tours available, public transportation is basically non-existent.

Is Saint Simons or Memphis a more walkable city?

Saint Simons
Memphis

Saint Simons and Memphis both are notable when exploring on foot.

Saint Simons is somewhat walkable. The downtown area is walkable, but to access much of what is available, you'll want to have a car.

Memphis is a somewhat walkable place. 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 Saint Simons Worth Visiting? and Is Memphis Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Memphis or Saint Simons?

How long in Saint Simons or Memphis?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Saint Simons and Memphis. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Saint Simons than in Memphis. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Saint Simons, and 2-3 days is enough time in Memphis.

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

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

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


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

One day in Saint Simons or Memphis?

Saint Simons is a small town with plenty to do. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. This island 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 soulful 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 Saint Simons or Memphis?

Saint Simons might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Most people come for the beaches. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Saint Simons 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 Saint Simons or Memphis?

Saint Simons is a great place to explore. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. 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 laid-back 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 Saint Simons or Memphis?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Saint Simons. Since Saint Simons is a small town, it's easily explored when your time is limited. 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.

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 Family-Friendly Tours to United States of America, The Best Wildlife Tours to United States of America, The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in United States of America, and The Best Historical Tours in United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Memphis or Saint Simons?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Saint Simons is $176, while the average daily cost in Memphis is $167. 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 Saint Simons and Memphis in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Saint Simons $100
    Memphis $84
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Saint Simons $200
    Memphis $168
Compare Hotels in Saint Simons and Memphis

Looking for a hotel in Saint Simons or Memphis? 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 Saint Simons


Hotels in Memphis


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: Saint Simons Hotel Prices and Memphis Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Saint Simons $49
    Memphis $59

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Memphis

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

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

Is it cheaper to fly into Saint Simons or Memphis?

Prices for flights to both Memphis and Saint Simons 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
    Saint Simons $48
    Memphis $43

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.
    Saint Simons $16
    Memphis $45

Tours and Activities in Memphis

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

  • Self-Guided Audio Walking Tour of Beale Street: $6.50
  • Beale Street Experience Audio App Self Guided Walking Tour: $7.75
  • Memphis Music Hall of Fame Admission Ticket: $8.00
  • Memphis Music Hall of Fame Admission Ticket: $8.00
  • Downtown In-App Audio Tour: $9.00
  • Scavenger Hunt Adventure in Memphis by Operation City Quest: $10
  • Scavenger Hunt Adventure City Game on Your Phone: $10
  • Entry Ticket to the Edge Motor Museum: $10
  • Rock 'n' Soul Museum with Audio Tour: $11
  • Brews, Blues and BBQ Self-Guided Audio Tour: $12
  • Woodruff-Fontaine House Museum Admission Ticket in Memphis: $15
  • 1-Hour Beale Street Guided Walking Tour: $16

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Saint Simons $60
    Memphis $26

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 Saint Simons and Memphis, we can see that Saint Simons 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 Saint Simons Expensive? and Is Memphis Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Saint Simons or Memphis?

Memphis has a larger population, and is about 50 times larger than the population of Saint Simons. When comparing the sizes of Saint Simons 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 Saint Simons or Memphis?

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 Saint Simons or Memphis in the Summer?

Both Memphis and Saint Simons during the summer are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Saint Simons for the beaches, the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Memphis in the summer for the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Saint Simons is generally around the same temperature as Memphis. Daily temperatures in Saint Simons average around 82°F (28°C), and Memphis fluctuates around 83°F (29°C).

In Memphis, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Saint Simons. In the summer, Saint Simons often gets less sunshine than Memphis. Saint Simons gets 286 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Memphis receives 328 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Saint Simons. Saint Simons usually gets more rain in July than Memphis. Saint Simons gets 5.4 inches (137 mm) of rain, while Memphis receives 2.9 inches (73 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Saint Simons 82°F (28°C) 
    Memphis 83°F (29°C)

Should I visit Saint Simons or Memphis in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Saint Simons and Memphis. Many visitors come to Saint Simons in the autumn for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, most visitors come to Memphis for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the music scene during these months.

Saint Simons is a little warmer than Memphis in the autumn. The daily temperature in Saint Simons averages around 70°F (21°C) in October, and Memphis fluctuates around 64°F (18°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Memphis this time of the year. In Saint Simons, it's very sunny this time of the year. Saint Simons usually receives less sunshine than Memphis during autumn. Saint Simons gets 214 hours of sunny skies, while Memphis receives 240 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Saint Simons usually receives more rain than Memphis. Saint Simons gets 2.9 inches (73 mm) of rain, while Memphis receives 1.6 inches (41 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Saint Simons 70°F (21°C) 
    Memphis 64°F (18°C)

Should I visit Saint Simons or Memphis in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Saint Simons as well as Memphis. Most visitors come to Saint Simons for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Memphis because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

The weather in Memphis can be very cold. In the winter, Saint Simons is much warmer than Memphis. Typically, the winter temperatures in Saint Simons in January average around 53°F (12°C), and Memphis averages at about 40°F (5°C).

In the winter, Saint Simons often gets more sunshine than Memphis. Saint Simons gets 191 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Memphis receives 163 hours of full sun.

Saint Simons usually gets more rain in January than Memphis. Saint Simons gets 3.3 inches (83 mm) of rain, while Memphis receives 2.4 inches (62 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Saint Simons 53°F (12°C) 
    Memphis 40°F (5°C)

Should I visit Saint Simons or Memphis in the Spring?

Both Memphis and Saint Simons are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The spring months attract visitors to Saint Simons because of the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty. Also, the activities around the city are the main draw to Memphis this time of year.

In April, Saint Simons is generally a little warmer than Memphis. Daily temperatures in Saint Simons average around 68°F (20°C), and Memphis fluctuates around 64°F (18°C).

It's quite sunny in Memphis. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Saint Simons. Saint Simons usually receives more sunshine than Memphis during spring. Saint Simons gets 285 hours of sunny skies, while Memphis receives 254 hours of full sun in the spring.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Memphis. In April, Saint Simons usually receives less rain than Memphis. Saint Simons gets 2.8 inches (72 mm) of rain, while Memphis receives 4.3 inches (109 mm) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Saint Simons 68°F (20°C) 
    Memphis 64°F (18°C)

Typical Weather for Memphis and Saint Simons

Saint Simons Memphis
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 53°F (12°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm) 40°F (5°C) 2.4 inches (62 mm)
Feb 56°F (13°C) 3.9 inches (100 mm) 45°F (7°C) 3.3 inches (85 mm)
Mar 62°F (17°C) 3.7 inches (93 mm) 54°F (12°C) 4.2 inches (106 mm)
Apr 68°F (20°C) 2.8 inches (72 mm) 64°F (18°C) 4.3 inches (109 mm)
May 74°F (24°C) 3.7 inches (93 mm) 72°F (22°C) 3.3 inches (84 mm)
Jun 80°F (27°C) 5.7 inches (146 mm) 80°F (27°C) 2.3 inches (58 mm)
Jul 82°F (28°C) 5.4 inches (137 mm) 83°F (29°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm)
Aug 82°F (28°C) 7.8 inches (199 mm) 82°F (28°C) 2.8 inches (72 mm)
Sep 79°F (26°C) 7.1 inches (180 mm) 76°F (24°C) 2.6 inches (66 mm)
Oct 70°F (21°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm) 64°F (18°C) 1.6 inches (41 mm)
Nov 62°F (17°C) 2.2 inches (55 mm) 54°F (12°C) 2.6 inches (65 mm)
Dec 56°F (13°C) 2.7 inches (69 mm) 44°F (7°C) 4.1 inches (105 mm)