A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Beaufort vs. Gatlinburg for Nightlife, Food, Couples, and Attractions

Should you visit Beaufort or Gatlinburg?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Beaufort or Gatlinburg, 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.

Beaufort

Beaufort is a southern, charming, and historic town. With plenty of activities and sights, this is a small town worth visiting. Beaufort is a gorgeous place to visit. Since it has a quaint atmosphere, you'll want to spend time soaking it all in. Other reasons to visit include museums, food, and beaches. See Beaufort travel costs.

Gatlinburg

Gatlinburg is a flashy, high energy, and wild city. It's also known for museums, skiing, and nightlife. See Gatlinburg travel costs.

Beaufort and Gatlinburg: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Popular beach
  • Scenic old town
  • Known for its beauty
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Small town charm
  • Quaint atmosphere
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Public transit not as usable
Pros
  • Popular for skiing
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Nice resorts
  • Good for hiking
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good public transit
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for food


Is there more to do in Beaufort or Gatlinburg?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Gatlinburg. Although Beaufort and Gatlinburg are both popular with visitors, Gatlinburg has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Gatlinburg is more popular for its skiing, nightlife, resorts, and hiking, while Beaufort is known for its food, beaches, historical sights, small town charm, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere. Gatlinburg is more touristy than Beaufort and is popular for its countless entertainment venues as well as its easy access to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. It is also home to the Gatlinburg Strip. Beaufort is popular for its Lowcountry cuisine and historic homes.

How is Beaufort different from Gatlinburg?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Beaufort or Gatlinburg Better for Skiing?

Beaufort
Gatlinburg

Gatlinburg is a nice place to visit for snow skiing. However, Beaufort is not a skiing destination.

Gatlinburg is a great destination for skiing with plenty areas to explore. Ober Gatlinburg is the only ski area in Tennessee. The winter activities open after Thanksgiving and include snow skiing, snowboarding, ice skating, and tubing.

Beaufort is not a skiing destination.


Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Beaufort or Gatlinburg?

Beaufort
Gatlinburg

Both Beaufort and Gatlinburg have good landmarks and museums for visitors.

Beaufort is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. The town's museums highlight the region's past. There are four popular museums that you can visit - the Beaufort History Museum, Parris Island Museum, Verdier House Museum, and York W. Bailey Museum.

Gatlinburg offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. Museums range from gaudy to quirky. Check out the Hollywood Star Cars Museum, the Salt and Pepper Shaker Museum, Ripley's Believe It or Not, the Hollywood Wax Museum, and the Titanic Museum. There's also the Gatlinburg Space Needle and the Gatlinburg SkyBridge.

Is the Food Better in Beaufort or Gatlinburg? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Beaufort
Gatlinburg

Beaufort is great for its local flavors and cuisine. However, Gatlinburg is not a good destination for its local cuisine and restaurants.

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in Beaufort. Soak up the charming atmosphere by dining at one of the local restaurants. Many serve Lowcountry cuisine which includes She-crab soup, fried green tomatoes, shrimp burgers, and barbecue.

You'll find the standard options when it comes to food in Gatlinburg. Staying true to form, restaurants in Gatlinburg cater to the tourist scene and serve up burgers, pizza, pancakes, and other classic favorites.

Is Beaufort or Gatlinburg Better for Nightlife?

Beaufort
Gatlinburg

Gatlinburg is renowned for nightlife. However, Beaufort is a mediocre town for nightlife and partying.

Gatlinburg is a destination that you simply have to visit at least once for nightlife. Live music, theatrical shows, as well as bars and clubs that stay open late into the night give this town a huge party atmosphere. During the peak season the town is packed with people looking to have a good time and you'll find tons of things to do by simply walking down the main drag.

Those looking for nightlife will find a few places to hang out in Beaufort. You'll find bars, grills, and taverns in town, but most people don't visit for the nightlife scene.


Is Beaufort or Gatlinburg Better for Resorts?

Beaufort
Gatlinburg

Gatlinburg is notable for its resorts. However, Beaufort is not a resort destination.

Gatlinburg is a popular resort destination that attracts visitors from everywhere. There are plenty of resorts and vacation clubs near town. Many have pools, waterslides, or hot tubs.

Beaufort is not a resort destination.

Is Beaufort or Gatlinburg Better for Beaches?

Beaufort
Gatlinburg

Beaufort is very good for its beaches. However, Gatlinburg is not a beach destination.

Many people head to Beaufort to enjoy the beach. The town has a nice waterfront, but you have to head about half an hour out of town for a real beach. One of the best options is Hunting Island State Park.

Gatlinburg is not a beach destination.

Is Beaufort or Gatlinburg Better for its Old Town?

Beaufort
Gatlinburg

Beaufort is great for its historic old town. However, Gatlinburg does not have a historic old town.

There is a nice variety of sights in the old town of Beaufort. Historic homes, some that were built before the Civil War, offer a glimpse into the past. Beaufort is the second oldest town in South Carolina and it holds on to much of its charm and character.

Gatlinburg does not have a historic old town.


Is Beaufort or Gatlinburg Better for Hiking?

Beaufort
Gatlinburg

Gatlinburg is notable for the nearby hiking options. However, Beaufort is not a hiking destination.

Gatlinburg is a popular spot for hiking. You'll need to head out of town into the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, but once you're there the hiking is impressive. There are waterfall hikes, trails to viewpoints, and loops that take you through wildflowers. Some of the most popular trails include Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail, Middle Prong Trail, and the Gatlinburg Trail.

Beaufort is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Beaufort or Gatlinburg?

Beaufort
Gatlinburg

Both Beaufort and Gatlinburg are good shopping destinations.

Beaufort is a great destination for shopping. Head downtown for some souvenir shopping or to check out the art galleries or fashion boutiques.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Gatlinburg. There are tourist traps and souvenir shops around town, but you can also head to the Great Smoky Arts and Crafts Community where you can meet local artists and learn about their work.

Is Beaufort or Gatlinburg More Beautiful?

Beaufort
Gatlinburg

Beaufort is very good for its scenery and beauty. However, Gatlinburg is not a destination known for its beauty.

Beaufort is a gorgeous place to visit. There are many beautiful spots to take in nature or watch the sunset.

Gatlinburg is not a destination known for its beauty.


Is Beaufort or Gatlinburg Better for Families?

Beaufort
Gatlinburg

Beaufort is adequate for its kid-friendly activities. However, Gatlinburg is not a family-friendly destination.

For families, Beaufort is not always the best place to visit. There are parks and outdoor activities in the area, but one of the best options is to head out of town to the beach.

Gatlinburg is not a family-friendly destination. Ober Gatlinburg is a combination ski resort and amusement park that is a highlight for many families. During the warmer season, horseback riding and waterparks are popular. There's also a Ripley's Aquarium, minigolf, and Gatlin's Fun Center. Nearby you'll find Dollywood and Pigeon Forge.

Is Beaufort or Gatlinburg Better for Couples?

Beaufort
Gatlinburg

Beaufort and Gatlinburg are both excellent to visit as a couple.

Beaufort is a very popular place to visit for couples. There are many charming and romantic spots around town as well as historic inns where you can stay. Couples will enjoy the waterfront area or exploring one of the nature parks that are nearby. There are also quaint local restaurants that make for a nice date night.

Gatlinburg makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. If you're looking for a flashy and ostentatious experience, then there are all the typical activities around town - Ripley's Believe It or Not, the Gatlinburg Space Needle, or Ober Gatlinburg. For a bit more nature, you can head out of town and enjoy one of the many hiking trails. There are also breweries and wineries in the area, as well as a range of resorts.

Is Beaufort or Gatlinburg Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Beaufort
Gatlinburg

Gatlinburg is a nice place to visit for its public transit. However, Beaufort is a mediocre town for times when you don't have a car.

Gatlinburg has a few public transit options. There's a free trolley service that offers a convenient way to get around town.

Public transit is quite limited in Beaufort. There is no reliable public transportation system in the area.


Is Beaufort or Gatlinburg a more walkable city?

Beaufort
Gatlinburg

Beaufort and Gatlinburg both are excellent when exploring on foot.

Beaufort is very walkable. The quaint downtown is walkable and offers easy access to art galleries, restaurants, and shops.

Gatlinburg is a very walkable town. The downtown area is pedestrian-friendly and most of the attractions in town can be reached on foot. If you want to leave town, a car is a must, but in town traffic and parking can be frustrating, so walk when you can.

For even more information, also check out Is Beaufort Worth Visiting? and Is Gatlinburg Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Gatlinburg or Beaufort?

How long in Beaufort or Gatlinburg?

It's fun to spend time in either Beaufort or Gatlinburg. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Gatlinburg due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Beaufort, and 2-4 days is enough time in Gatlinburg.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Gatlinburg than Beaufort 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 Gatlinburg.


  • How many days in Beaufort or Gatlinburg? Ideal Length of Stay
    Beaufort 1-3 
    Gatlinburg 2-4

One day in Beaufort or Gatlinburg?

Beaufort might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Beaufort, one day is sufficent for most.

The city of Gatlinburg offers nightlife and shopping. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

A weekend in Beaufort or Gatlinburg?

Even though Beaufort is a small town, it has plenty of activities to choose from. Most visitors spend time around the old town 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 town.

Gatlinburg is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this city makes for a great vacation. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Gatlinburg, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.


Five days in Beaufort or Gatlinburg?

Beaufort, a popular town, is full of activities for travelers. Visiting the old town is also a must. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Gatlinburg is a popular choice for travelers. It's no surprise that nightlife is why people visit. Five days is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A week in Beaufort or Gatlinburg?

Beaufort 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.

Gatlinburg is a great place to explore. It's no surprise that nightlife is why people visit. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This city offers something for everyone.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Polar Tours & Cruises in United States of America, The Best Walking Tours in United States of America, The Best Northern Lights Tours in Alaska, and The Best Tours Under $1000 in United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Gatlinburg or Beaufort?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations. These travel costs come from the actual spending of real travelers.

  • Beaufort Prices
    USA Prices
    Gatlinburg Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Beaufort $154
    Gatlinburg $253

The average daily cost (per person) in Beaufort is $154, while the average daily cost in Gatlinburg is $253. 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 Beaufort and Gatlinburg in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Beaufort $100
    Gatlinburg $80
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Beaufort $200
    Gatlinburg $160
Compare Hotels in Beaufort and Gatlinburg

Looking for a hotel in Beaufort or Gatlinburg? 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 Beaufort


Hotels in Gatlinburg


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: Beaufort Hotel Prices and Gatlinburg Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Beaufort -
    Gatlinburg $35

Is it cheaper to fly into Beaufort or Gatlinburg?

Prices for flights to both Gatlinburg and Beaufort 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
    Beaufort $54
    Gatlinburg $148

Typical Food Prices in Gatlinburg

Here are some examples of typical meal expenses from previous travelers to Gatlinburg:


  • Chinese Food Dinner (for 2)
    $21

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Gatlinburg

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

  • Taste the Smokies Appalachian Inspired Cooking Classes: $115

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Beaufort -
    Gatlinburg $24

Tours and Activities in Beaufort

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Beaufort are as follows:

  • Beaufort Tipsy Tour: $59
  • Gullah Heritage Tour: $52
  • Historic City Tour by Bus: $37
  • Local History and Film Sites Tour by golf cart: $38
  • Pat Conroy's Beaufort Tour by Golf Cart: $48

Typical Entertainment Prices in Gatlinburg

For Gatlinburg, here are some examples of average entertainment and activity prices from previous travelers:


  • Horseback Riding Photos
    $22
  • Horseback Riding (for 2)
    $55

Tours and Activities in Gatlinburg

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

  • Great Smoky Mountains NP Driving Tour smartphone autoplay APP/GPS: $9.75
  • Clingmans Dome Self Guided Walking Audio Tour: $9.99
  • Cades Cove Sightseeing Self-Guided Driving Audio Tour: $15
  • Museum of the Cherokee People Admission Ticket: $15
  • Gatlinburg Scavenger Hunt and Sights Self Guided Tour: $15
  • Great Smoky Mountains National Park Self-Guided Audio Tour: $16
  • Great Smoky Mountains National Park Self-Guided Driving Tour: $17
  • Rocky Top Mountain Coaster Admission Ticket in Pigeon Forge: $18
  • Self-Guided Audio Driving Tour in Great Smoky Mountains: $20
  • Scavenger Hunt Adventure in Pigeon Forge by Zombie Scavengers: $20
  • Gatlinburg Ghosts of The Smokies Most Haunted Tour: $25
  • Great Smoky Mountains & Cades Cove Self-Guided Driving Tours: $25

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Beaufort -
    Gatlinburg $15

Sample the Local Flavors in Gatlinburg

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Gatlinburg:

  • Famous Moonshine & Wine Tour From Pigeon Forge: $85


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Beaufort and Gatlinburg, we can see that Gatlinburg is more expensive. And not only is Beaufort much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Beaufort would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Beaufort and be able to afford a more luxurious travel style by staying in nicer hotels, eating at more expensive restaurants, taking tours, and experiencing more activities. The same level of travel in Gatlinburg would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Gatlinburg than you might in Beaufort.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Beaufort Expensive? and Is Gatlinburg Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Beaufort or Gatlinburg?

Beaufort has a larger population, and is about 3 times larger than the population of Gatlinburg. When comparing the sizes of Beaufort and Gatlinburg, 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 Beaufort or Gatlinburg?

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 Beaufort or Gatlinburg in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Beaufort as well as Gatlinburg. Most visitors come to Beaufort for the beaches, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Additionally, the summer months attract visitors to Gatlinburg because of the hiking.

Beaufort is around the same temperature as Gatlinburg in the summer. The daily temperature in Beaufort averages around 82°F (28°C) in July, and Gatlinburg fluctuates around 81°F (27°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Gatlinburg. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Beaufort this time of the year. In the summer, Beaufort often gets less sunshine than Gatlinburg. Beaufort gets 267 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Gatlinburg receives 294 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Gatlinburg. Beaufort receives a lot of rain in the summer. Beaufort usually gets more rain in July than Gatlinburg. Beaufort gets 7.9 inches (200 mm) of rain, while Gatlinburg receives 4.7 inches (119 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Beaufort 82°F (28°C) 
    Gatlinburg 81°F (27°C)

Should I visit Beaufort or Gatlinburg in the Autumn?

Both Gatlinburg and Beaufort are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The autumn months attract visitors to Beaufort because of the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, the hiking trails and the shopping scene are the main draw to Gatlinburg this time of year.

In the autumn, Beaufort is a little warmer than Gatlinburg. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Beaufort in October average around 68°F (20°C), and Gatlinburg averages at about 63°F (17°C).

It's quite sunny in Gatlinburg. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Beaufort. Beaufort usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Gatlinburg during autumn. Beaufort gets 223 hours of sunny skies, while Gatlinburg receives 213 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Beaufort usually receives around the same amount of rain as Gatlinburg. Beaufort gets 2.8 inches (71 mm) of rain, while Gatlinburg receives 2.7 inches (68 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Beaufort 68°F (20°C) 
    Gatlinburg 63°F (17°C)

Should I visit Beaufort or Gatlinburg in the Winter?

Both Gatlinburg and Beaufort during the winter are popular places to visit. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Beaufort this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Gatlinburg for the skiing, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Gatlinburg. In January, Beaufort is generally much warmer than Gatlinburg. Daily temperatures in Beaufort average around 48°F (9°C), and Gatlinburg fluctuates around 40°F (5°C).

In the winter, Beaufort often gets more sunshine than Gatlinburg. Beaufort gets 176 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Gatlinburg receives 134 hours of full sun.

Gatlinburg gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Beaufort usually gets less rain in January than Gatlinburg. Beaufort gets 2.9 inches (74 mm) of rain, while Gatlinburg receives 4.7 inches (119 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Beaufort 48°F (9°C) 
    Gatlinburg 40°F (5°C)

Should I visit Beaufort or Gatlinburg in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Beaufort and Gatlinburg. Many travelers come to Beaufort for the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty.

Beaufort is a little warmer than Gatlinburg in the spring. The daily temperature in Beaufort averages around 67°F (19°C) in April, and Gatlinburg fluctuates around 62°F (17°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Gatlinburg this time of the year. In Beaufort, it's very sunny this time of the year. Beaufort usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Gatlinburg during spring. Beaufort gets 275 hours of sunny skies, while Gatlinburg receives 263 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Beaufort usually receives less rain than Gatlinburg. Beaufort gets 2.9 inches (74 mm) of rain, while Gatlinburg receives 3.6 inches (92 mm) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Beaufort 67°F (19°C) 
    Gatlinburg 62°F (17°C)

Typical Weather for Gatlinburg and Beaufort

Beaufort Gatlinburg
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 48°F (9°C) 2.9 inches (74 mm) 40°F (5°C) 4.7 inches (119 mm)
Feb 52°F (11°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm) 44°F (7°C) 4.7 inches (120 mm)
Mar 58°F (15°C) 4.4 inches (112 mm) 54°F (12°C) 4.8 inches (123 mm)
Apr 67°F (19°C) 2.9 inches (74 mm) 62°F (17°C) 3.6 inches (92 mm)
May 73°F (23°C) 4.2 inches (107 mm) 70°F (21°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm)
Jun 80°F (26°C) 5.9 inches (150 mm) 78°F (25°C) 3.6 inches (92 mm)
Jul 82°F (28°C) 7.9 inches (200 mm) 81°F (27°C) 4.7 inches (119 mm)
Aug 81°F (27°C) 6.5 inches (164 mm) 80°F (27°C) 3.2 inches (82 mm)
Sep 77°F (25°C) 5.6 inches (141 mm) 74°F (24°C) 2.8 inches (71 mm)
Oct 68°F (20°C) 2.8 inches (71 mm) 63°F (17°C) 2.7 inches (68 mm)
Nov 59°F (15°C) 1.9 inches (49 mm) 53°F (12°C) 3.5 inches (90 mm)
Dec 52°F (11°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm) 44°F (7°C) 4.5 inches (114 mm)