A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Washington vs. Chattanooga for Attractions, Food, Nightlife, and Hiking

Should you visit Washington or Chattanooga?

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

Which city is more affordable and which is best for your travel style? If you're trying to figure out where to go next, comparing the travel costs between Washington and Chattanooga can help you decide which place is right for you.

Washington

Washington is a active, monument-filled, and international city. As it's a big city, visitors will find plenty to do, too. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. As this is a very quaint destination, you'll find it has a special atmosphere. Other popular activities here include food, shopping, and museums.

Chattanooga

Chattanooga is a outdoorsy, thriving, and bustling city. Other reasons to visit include shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Washington and Chattanooga: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Washington or Chattanooga?

You'll generally find more things to do in Washington than Chattanooga. Washington is bigger than Chattanooga, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Washington is better known for its museums, theatre productions, food, nightlife, music, shopping, big city activities, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere, while Chattanooga is more popular for its hiking. Washington is more touristy than Chattanooga and is popular for its reputation as the capital of the United States, but it's also known for its many monuments, memorials, and museums. Also, Washington is famous for The Washington Monument and the White House. Chattanooga is well known for it's hikes, railways, and nearby natural areas.

How is Washington different from Chattanooga?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Washington or Chattanooga?

Washington is an unbeatable place for its museums and landmarks. Also, Chattanooga is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historical sights.

You'll find many recognizable landmarks that put Washington on the map. The city has world class museums that are often free. The Smithsonian Museums are arguably some of the most impressive museums in the United States. The city also has a large collection of monuments that are dedicated to past presidents or historical events. Many are best experienced at night when the sun sets and the lights come on.

Chattanooga is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. It's a thriving city and there are a number of museums to explore. The Hunter Museum of American Art is great for art enthusiasts. There's also the Creative Discovery Museum, the Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum, and the 6th Cavalry Museum, as well as several smaller museums that you can visit.

Is Washington or Chattanooga Better for Theater?

Washington is a great destination for its shows and theatre. However, Chattanooga is not a theatre destination.

While in town, many visitors enjoy seeing a show in Washington. Theater is popular in the city. From major theaters like the Kennedy Center and Ford's Theater, to lesser known smaller venues, there are options for everyone.

Chattanooga is not a theatre destination.

Is the Food Better in Washington or Chattanooga? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Washington is an unbeatable place for its restaurant scene. Also, Chattanooga is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

For foodies, Washington is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. This city is among the most diverse in the country, so you can find restaurants from almost any cuisine here. It's worth exploring and stepping out of your comfort zone. There are popular neighborhoods for Ethiopian, Korean, Thai, Japanese, and Chinese food, among many others.

There are plenty of up and coming restaurants around Chattanooga. There are a growing number of restaurants that range from local dives to fine dining. Fried food is common, but you'll also find Mexican and classic hamburgers. Popular dishes that are local to the area include catfish, southern barbecue, and hush puppies.

Is Washington or Chattanooga Better for Nightlife?

Washington is a great destination for its evening party scene. Also, Chattanooga is still popular, but not quite as popular for nightlife.

The people in Washington know how to have a good time. Many visitors head straight to the museums and the National Mall, and don't realize what a livable and fun city this is. Some of the best nightlife is found in Dupont Circle, U Street, and even Arlington, VA. The city's young population ensures that there's never a dull moment.

If you're looking for night time activities Chattanooga has a few options to choose from. You'll find plenty of bars and clubs around town. There are also a number of comedy and improv clubs that are fun to check out.

Is Washington or Chattanooga Better for Music?

Washington is a popular place for its music scene. However, Chattanooga is not a live music destination.

The music scene in Washington is active and vibrant. Notable live music venues include the 9:30 Club, the Anthem, and Union Stage.

Chattanooga is not a live music destination.

Is Washington or Chattanooga Better for Hiking?

Chattanooga is great for hiking. However, Washington is not a good destination for the nearby hiking options.

Many visitors go to Chattanooga for the hiking trails. It's proximity to the mountains means that you don't have to go far to find good hiking. Within a half hour of town there are more than 50 trailheads. Lookout Mountain and Signal Mountain are both hiking destinations. Several trails have swimming spots and many pass through nice forests or head to impressive viewpoints.

Many visitors include a hike while visiting Washington. Just outside of Washington DC you'll find plenty of places to go hiking. There's also an elaborate bike and walking trail system in the city. To enjoy a bit of nature, head to Teddy Roosevelt Island.

Is the Shopping Better in Washington or Chattanooga?

Washington is a great destination for its shopping areas. Also, Chattanooga is still popular, but not quite as popular for shopping.

Browsing through shops is a popular activity in Washington. Head to Georgetown and Dupont Circle for some of the city's best local shopping. There are name brand chains mixed in with local boutiques. You'll also find plenty of souvenir shops in the more touristy areas if you're looking to pick up some trinkets.

Plenty of visitors enjoy shopping while in Chattanooga. Head downtown for local shops or to the larger malls if you want mainstream stores. Many visitors enjoy antiquing while they're in town, but there are also farmer's markets and thrift stores.

Is Washington or Chattanooga Better for Christmas?

Washington is an unbeatable place for its Christmas activities. However, Chattanooga does not offer Christmas activities.

Washington is a world class destination for shoppers. With it's beautiful lights and holiday shows, Christmas is beautiful in the capital of the United States.

Chattanooga does not offer Christmas activities.

Is Washington or Chattanooga Better for Families?

Washington is a great destination for its family-friendly activities. Also, Chattanooga is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

Washington is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. It is a fun and educational destination where kids can explore world class museums and try unique foods from all around the world. The city has nationally recognized landmarks, monuments, and memorials and it's also home to some of the best (free) museums in the United States including the world class Smithsonian Institutions. Many schools visit Washington DC as a field trip, particularly during the Spring months, so you'll kids groups in colorful t-shirts running around the National Mall.

Chattanooga offers lots of family activities. Many people enjoy a visit to the Tennessee Aquarium, which has a touch tank and a butterfly exhibit, among other things. Near downtown, Coolidge Park is a great place for kids to get their energy out. There's also the popular Lookout Mountain Incline Railway as well as many hiking trails in the area.

Is Washington or Chattanooga Better for Couples?

Washington is a great destination for couples. Also, Chattanooga is still popular, but not quite as popular for romance.

Couples visit Washington frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. The city lights up at night, so couples will enjoy wandering by the monuments in the evening or taking in a dinner and show. During the Spring months you'll find couples wandering through the Cherry Blossoms or along the waterfront.

Chattanooga is a nice destination for couples. Many couples enjoy staying at a local inn and then dining in a nice restaurant or visiting a winery. There's an eclectic art district to explore as well as horse drawn carriages and plenty of nearby hiking trails.

Is Washington or Chattanooga Better for Students?

Washington is an unbeatable place for students. However, Chattanooga is not popular with students.

Many students frequent Washington. International students come from around the world to study, learn, intern, and work in the capital of the United States. There are many internships available through the federal government as well as NGOs and nonprofits.

Chattanooga is not popular with students.

Is Washington or Chattanooga Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Washington is an unbeatable place for its public transit. Also, Chattanooga is still popular, but not quite as popular for times when you don't have a car.

Visitors in Washington can get around quickly with the extensive public transit system. The metro system and the bus system are reliable and efficient ways to explore the city.

Many visitors rely on the effecient and affordable public transportation in Chattanooga. The city has a convenient and free electric shuttle service. It travels through the downtown and has stops at many points of interest such as the Chattanooga Choo Choo and the Tennessee Aquarium.

Is Washington or Chattanooga a more walkable city?

Washington is an unbeatable place for its ease of walking around. Also, Chattanooga is still popular, but not quite as popular for its walkability.

Getting around Washington on foot is easy. Many neighborhoods around the city are easy to explore on foot. Most tourists spend a lot of time in the Mall area, which is very pedestrian friendly.

Chattanooga is very walkable. The city has put a lot of effort into improving its walkability. In particular, the downtown is nice to explore on foot.

For even more information, also check out Is Washington Worth Visiting? and Is Chattanooga Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Chattanooga or Washington?

How long in Washington or Chattanooga?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Washington and Chattanooga. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Washington than in Chattanooga. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Washington, and 2-3 days is enough time in Chattanooga.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Washington than Chattanooga 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 Washington.

One day in Washington or Chattanooga?

Washington is a active city where you can fill many days. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

With museums and nightlife around the outdoorsy city of Chattanooga, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Washington or Chattanooga?

Washington is a monument-filled big city where you can fill many days. This city offers something for everyone. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

With nightlife and food around the destination of Chattanooga, there's plenty to do. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. It offers something for everyone. Many people spend a weekend here. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this city.

Five days in Washington or Chattanooga?

Washington is a active city where you can fill many days. Many people spend five days here.If you enjoy all that's offered here, then five days is just the right amount of time to spend here. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

Chattanooga, a popular city, is full of activities for travelers. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

A week in Washington or Chattanooga?

Washington is a big city destination where you can fill many days. Anyone can find something fun to do here. This is a popular place to visit for one week. In one week, you should have a good grasp of this city.

Chattanooga is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

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 Washington and Chattanooga, we can see that Washington 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 Washington Expensive? and Is Chattanooga Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Washington or Chattanooga?

Washington has a larger population, and is about 4 times larger than the population of Chattanooga. When comparing the sizes of Washington and Chattanooga, 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 Washington or Chattanooga?

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 Washington or Chattanooga in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Washington as well as Chattanooga. Most visitors come to Washington for the hiking, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Chattanooga because of the hiking and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Washington is generally around the same temperature as Chattanooga. Daily temperatures in Washington average around 79°F (26°C), and Chattanooga fluctuates around 81°F (27°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Chattanooga. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Washington this time of the year. In the summer, Washington often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Chattanooga. Washington gets 278 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Chattanooga receives 265 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Chattanooga. Washington usually gets less rain in July than Chattanooga. Washington gets 3.5 inches (88 mm) of rain, while Chattanooga receives 5.2 inches (131 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Washington or Chattanooga in the Autumn?

Both Chattanooga and Washington are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The autumn months attract visitors to Washington because of the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, the hiking trails and the shopping scene are the main draw to Chattanooga this time of year.

Washington is cooler than Chattanooga in the autumn. The daily temperature in Washington averages around 60°F (15°C) in October, and Chattanooga fluctuates around 63°F (17°C).

It's quite sunny in Chattanooga. Washington usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Chattanooga during autumn. Washington gets 197 hours of sunny skies, while Chattanooga receives 211 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Washington usually receives around the same amount of rain as Chattanooga. Washington gets 2.9 inches (73 mm) of rain, while Chattanooga receives 3 inches (75 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Washington or Chattanooga in the Winter?

Both Chattanooga and Washington during the winter are popular places to visit. The museums, the Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine are the main draw to Washington this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Chattanooga for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Chattanooga. It's quite cold in Washington in the winter. In the winter, Washington is much colder than Chattanooga. Typically, the winter temperatures in Washington in January average around 35°F (1°C), and Chattanooga averages at about 40°F (5°C).

In the winter, Washington often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Chattanooga. Washington gets 139 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Chattanooga receives 145 hours of full sun.

Chattanooga gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Washington usually gets less rain in January than Chattanooga. Washington gets 2.7 inches (68 mm) of rain, while Chattanooga receives 5.4 inches (137 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Washington or Chattanooga in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Washington and Chattanooga. Many travelers come to Washington for the activities around the city and the natural beauty.

In April, Washington is generally cooler than Chattanooga. Daily temperatures in Washington average around 56°F (14°C), and Chattanooga fluctuates around 62°F (17°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Chattanooga this time of the year. In Washington, it's very sunny this time of the year. Washington usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Chattanooga during spring. Washington gets 228 hours of sunny skies, while Chattanooga receives 243 hours of full sun in the spring.

Chattanooga receives a lot of rain in the spring. In April, Washington usually receives less rain than Chattanooga. Washington gets 2.8 inches (72 mm) of rain, while Chattanooga receives 4.4 inches (112 mm) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Chattanooga and Washington