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

Should you visit Tampa or Memphis?

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

Should I visit Tampa 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.

Tampa

Tampa is a easy-going, low-key, and laid-back city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. It's also popular because of the food and beaches.

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.

Tampa and Memphis: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Good scuba and snorkeling destination
  • Popular beach
  • Family-friendly
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less popular with couples
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students


Is there more to do in Tampa or Memphis?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Memphis than Tampa. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Memphis is very popular for its museums, nightlife, music, and shopping, while Tampa attracts visitors for its scuba diving & snorkeling and beaches. Tampa is famous for its amusement parks, wildlife parks, and popularity as a cruise ship port. Memphis is famous for its influential music scene and its southern barbecue. It is also well known for Elvis Presley's Graceland.

How is Tampa different from Memphis?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Tampa
Memphis

Memphis is a popular place for its museums and history. However, Tampa does not have museums and landmarks.

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.

Tampa does not have museums and landmarks.


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

Tampa
Memphis

Picking the best cuisine and restaurants between Tampa and Memphis can be difficult as they are each nice in their own way.

Tampa is becoming an appealing option for foodies. There are a surprising number of great local restaurants around town as well as a good food truck scene. Some favorite dishes include fresh caught seafood, Grouper sandwiches, and Cuban sandwiches.

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 Tampa or Memphis Better for Nightlife?

Tampa
Memphis

Memphis is an excellent place to visit for its evening party scene. However, Tampa is lacking in options for nightlife.

Memphis has a lively atmosphere and nightlife is popular here. 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.

Tampa is generally a quiet destination but there are options around. The city has some good nightclubs, sports bars, and other spots where locals enjoy spending the evening.

Is Tampa or Memphis Better for Music?

Tampa
Memphis

Memphis is an amazing city to visit for its music scene. However, Tampa 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.

Tampa is not a live music destination.


Is Tampa or Memphis Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Tampa
Memphis

Tampa is adequate for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Memphis is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

There are few places where you can go snorkeling in Tampa. While the water isn't always the clearest, there are some nice snorkeling and diving spots in the area. Options include Shell Key and Egmont Key, Crystal River, and Fort De Soto.

Memphis is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Tampa or Memphis Better for Beaches?

Tampa
Memphis

Tampa is a great city for the beach. However, Memphis is not a beach destination.

You'll have a great beach vacation in Tampa. Popular beaches near Tampa include Ben T. Davis Beach, Fred Howard Park, and Indian Rocks Beach.

Memphis is not a beach destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Tampa or Memphis?

Tampa
Memphis

Memphis is a decent place to visit for its shopping areas. However, Tampa is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Memphis has some good spots for those that want to go shopping. The city has plenty of malls and chain stores where you can grab anything you might need.

Tampa is not a noteworthy shopping destination.


Is Tampa or Memphis Better for Families?

Tampa
Memphis

Tampa 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 Tampa. The city has a number of kid-oriented attractions including Busch Gardens Amusement Park, several kid-friendly museums, and a number of animal centers, aquariums, and wildlife rescue facilities.

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 Tampa or Memphis Better for Couples?

Tampa
Memphis

Memphis is a popular place for couples. However, Tampa is lacking in options for romance.

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.

Tampa is not the best destination for a couple to visit. The area does have great restaurants and some fun places to explore, but the downtown area has room for improvement and much of the city is suburban.

Is Tampa or Memphis Better for Students?

Tampa
Memphis

Memphis is a popular place for its student-friendly activities. However, Tampa 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.

Tampa is not popular with students.


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

Tampa
Memphis

Memphis is a decent place to visit for times when you don't have a car. However, Tampa is lacking in options for its public transit.

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 limited or non-existant in Tampa. There is the street car that runs from downtown Tampa to Ybor City and stops at 11 stations.

Is Tampa or Memphis a more walkable city?

Tampa
Memphis

Memphis is a popular place for its ease of walking around. However, Tampa is lacking in options for its 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.

Tampa is generally not very walkable. While there are some neighborhoods that are considered walkable, you really need a car if you hope to explore Tampa in depth.

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

Should I spend more time in Memphis or Tampa?

How long in Tampa or Memphis?

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

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Memphis than Tampa 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 Tampa or Memphis? Ideal Length of Stay
    Tampa 2-3 
    Memphis 2-3

One day in Tampa or Memphis?

In Tampa, you'll find food. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. 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 food and museums that this creative destination offers. Lots of people come for the live music. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.


A weekend in Tampa or Memphis?

In Tampa, you'll find food. 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 Tampa has to offer.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Memphis. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. This would be the perfect place to spend a weekend, as it has just the right amount of activities. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Five days in Tampa or Memphis?

Tampa 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.

Memphis is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the nightlife and live music when visiting the destination of Memphis. Lots of people come for the live music. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

A week in Tampa or Memphis?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Tampa. Many people enjoy the food when visiting Tampa. 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.

You'll find live music and food around the laid-back destination of Memphis. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Lots of people come for the live music. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.


Which place is cheaper, Memphis or Tampa?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Tampa is $179, 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 Tampa and Memphis in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Tampa $85
    Memphis $84
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Tampa $170
    Memphis $168
Compare Hotels in Tampa and Memphis

Looking for a hotel in Tampa 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 Tampa


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: Tampa Hotel Prices and Memphis Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Tampa $69
    Memphis $59

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Tampa

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

  • Tampa Bay Cruise Port: Private Transfer to Tampa hotels: $306
  • Tampa Airport (TPA): Transfer tо Tampa Bay Cruise Port: $306
  • Tampa Airport (TPA): Private Transfer to Tampa hotel/address: $206
  • Private Transfer from Tampa Airport (TPA) to Clearwater Beach: $189
  • Private Transfer from Tampa Airport TPA to Lakeland/Winter Haven: $189
  • Tampa Airport (TPA) to St Petersburg - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $176
  • Private Transfer from TPA to Lakeland and Winter Haven: $158
  • Private transfer from Tampa airport To Zephyrhills, FL: $155
  • Private Transfer from TPA to Tampa / St Petersburg / Clearwater Beach : $121
  • Private Transfer from Tampa Airport to Clearwater: $120
  • Tampa Airport (TPA) to Lakeland / Winter Haven - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $108
  • Private transfer Arrival or Departure - Tampa International Airport (TPA): $79

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: $50
  • Memphis Airport MEM to Hot Springs Resorts Round-Trip Transfer: $287
  • Memphis Airport (MEM) to Memphis City - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $135
  • Greater Memphis To MEM International Airport - Luxury Transfer: $95

Is it cheaper to fly into Tampa or Memphis?

Prices for flights to both Memphis and Tampa 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
    Tampa $53
    Memphis $43

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Tampa

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

  • Cooking Class near Disney in Tampa Florida: $88
  • Ybor City Food Tour On Sundays: $89

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.
    Tampa $20
    Memphis $45

Tours and Activities in Tampa

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

  • Tampa Terrors Ghost Tour By US Ghost Adventures: $30
  • 1.5-hour Dolphin Sightseeing Cruise from Tampa: $31
  • 2 Hour Guided Segway Tour: $69
  • 2 Hour Private Floating Tiki Boat Tour in Tampa: $59
  • Adventure Island Water Park Ticket: $41
  • Busch Gardens Tampa Bay Admission Ticket: $108
  • Downtown Tampa Historic Walking Tour: $30
  • Escape to Paradise: Private Island Boat Adventure in Tampa: $630
  • Ghost Hunters Paranormal Ghost Tour: $39
  • Ghost Investigation Tour Interactive Paranormal Experience 18Plus: $35
  • Ghost Investigation Tours with Interactive Paranormal Experience: $35
  • Guided Tampa Sightseeing Tour in 2023 Street Legal Golf Cart: $45

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: $37
  • Downtown Memphis : Ultimate Private Party Experience: $535
  • 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

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Tampa $26
    Memphis $26

Sample the Local Flavors in Tampa

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

  • Tampa Bar Hunt: Tampa Takeover Bar Crawl: $12
  • Tampa Bar Crawl on a 2023 Street Legal Golf Cart: $40
  • Haunted Pub Crawl: $40

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


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


Which is Bigger, Tampa or Memphis?

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

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Tampa and Memphis. Many travelers come to Tampa for the beaches, snorkeling, the city activities, 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.

Tampa is around the same temperature as Memphis in the summer. The daily temperature in Tampa averages around 82°F (28°C) in July, and Memphis fluctuates around 83°F (29°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Memphis this time of the year. In Tampa, it's very sunny this time of the year. Tampa usually receives less sunshine than Memphis during summer. Tampa gets 265 hours of sunny skies, while Memphis receives 328 hours of full sun in the summer.

Tampa gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In July, Tampa usually receives more rain than Memphis. Tampa gets 8.4 inches (214 mm) of rain, while Memphis receives 2.9 inches (73 mm) of rain each month for the summer.


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

Should I visit Tampa or Memphis in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Tampa as well as Memphis. Many visitors come to Tampa in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions. Also, most visitors come to Memphis for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the music scene during these months.

In the autumn, Tampa is a little warmer than Memphis. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Tampa in October average around 75°F (24°C), and Memphis averages at about 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 Tampa this time of the year. In the autumn, Tampa often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Memphis. Tampa gets 234 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Memphis receives 240 hours of full sun.

Tampa usually gets more rain in October than Memphis. Tampa gets 2.6 inches (65 mm) of rain, while Memphis receives 1.6 inches (41 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Tampa 75°F (24°C) 
    Memphis 64°F (18°C)

Should I visit Tampa or Memphis in the Winter?

Both Memphis and Tampa are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Tampa for 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 January, Tampa is generally much warmer than Memphis. Daily temperatures in Tampa average around 60°F (15°C), and Memphis fluctuates around 40°F (5°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Tampa. Tampa usually receives more sunshine than Memphis during winter. Tampa gets 200 hours of sunny skies, while Memphis receives 163 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Tampa usually receives around the same amount of rain as Memphis. Tampa gets 2.3 inches (59 mm) of rain, while Memphis receives 2.4 inches (62 mm) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Tampa 60°F (15°C) 
    Memphis 40°F (5°C)

Should I visit Tampa or Memphis in the Spring?

Both Memphis and Tampa during the spring are popular places to visit. The spring months attract visitors to Tampa because of the beaches and the activities around the city. Furthermore, the activities around the city are the main draw to Memphis this time of year.

Tampa is a little warmer than Memphis in the spring. The daily temperature in Tampa averages around 71°F (22°C) in April, and Memphis fluctuates around 64°F (18°C).

In Memphis, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Tampa. In the spring, Tampa often gets more sunshine than Memphis. Tampa gets 299 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. Tampa usually gets less rain in April than Memphis. Tampa gets 2.1 inches (53 mm) of rain, while Memphis receives 4.3 inches (109 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Tampa 71°F (22°C) 
    Memphis 64°F (18°C)

Typical Weather for Memphis and Tampa

Tampa Memphis
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 60°F (15°C) 2.3 inches (59 mm) 40°F (5°C) 2.4 inches (62 mm)
Feb 61°F (16°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm) 45°F (7°C) 3.3 inches (85 mm)
Mar 67°F (19°C) 3.9 inches (99 mm) 54°F (12°C) 4.2 inches (106 mm)
Apr 71°F (22°C) 2.1 inches (53 mm) 64°F (18°C) 4.3 inches (109 mm)
May 77°F (25°C) 2.4 inches (61 mm) 72°F (22°C) 3.3 inches (84 mm)
Jun 81°F (27°C) 6.5 inches (165 mm) 80°F (27°C) 2.3 inches (58 mm)
Jul 82°F (28°C) 8.4 inches (214 mm) 83°F (29°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm)
Aug 82°F (28°C) 8 inches (203 mm) 82°F (28°C) 2.8 inches (72 mm)
Sep 81°F (27°C) 6.3 inches (161 mm) 76°F (24°C) 2.6 inches (66 mm)
Oct 75°F (24°C) 2.6 inches (65 mm) 64°F (18°C) 1.6 inches (41 mm)
Nov 68°F (20°C) 1.8 inches (45 mm) 54°F (12°C) 2.6 inches (65 mm)
Dec 62°F (17°C) 2.2 inches (56 mm) 44°F (7°C) 4.1 inches (105 mm)