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

Should you visit Chapel Hill or Gatlinburg?

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

Should I visit Chapel Hill or Gatlinburg? 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.

Chapel Hill

Chapel Hill is a collegiate, southern, and student-oriented town. Other reasons to visit include museums, nightlife, and food. See Chapel Hill travel costs.

Gatlinburg

Gatlinburg is a wild, flashy, and high energy city. Other popular activities here include hiking, shopping, and museums. See Gatlinburg travel costs.

Chapel Hill and Gatlinburg: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Chapel Hill or Gatlinburg?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Gatlinburg than Chapel Hill, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Gatlinburg is better known for its skiing, nightlife, resorts, and hiking, while Chapel Hill is more popular for its museums and attractions and food. Gatlinburg is more touristy than Chapel Hill and is popular for its countless entertainment venues as well as its easy access to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Also, Gatlinburg is famous for the Gatlinburg Strip. Chapel Hill is well known for being the home of the oldest public university in the United States.

How is Chapel Hill different from Gatlinburg?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Chapel Hill or Gatlinburg Better for Skiing?

Gatlinburg is a popular place for winter skiing. However, Chapel Hill is not a skiing destination.

Head to Gatlinburg for some great skiing and other winter activities. Ober Gatlinburg is the only ski area in Tennessee. The winter activities open after Thanksgiving and include snow skiing, snowboarding, ice skating, and tubing.

Chapel Hill is not a skiing destination.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Chapel Hill or Gatlinburg?

Chapel Hill is great for its historical sights. Also, Gatlinburg is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its sights and museums.

Many visitors head to Chapel Hill specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. Many of the museums are affiliated with UNC. A highlight of many trips is a visit to the Morehead Planetarium and Science Center. Hours can vary, so check the schedule ahead of time. Also worth visiting are the Ackland Art Museum and the Carolina Basketball 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 Chapel Hill or Gatlinburg? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Chapel Hill is very good for its local flavors and cuisine. However, Gatlinburg is not a good destination for its local cuisine and restaurants.

There are plenty of up and coming restaurants around Chapel Hill. Students often eat on Franklin Street, which has a diverse mix of casual and slightly nicer restaurants. You'll find Indian food, Mediterranean, Italian, and Greek. The city also has excellent barbecue and other southern favorites.

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 Chapel Hill or Gatlinburg Better for Nightlife?

Gatlinburg is very popular for its evening party scene. Also, Chapel Hill is still popular, but not quite as popular for nightlife.

Gatlinburg is a party destination, and you'll find plenty of activity all night long. 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.

Many people head to Chapel Hill for the nightlife scene. Most of the nightlife is centered around the student population. Franklin Street has a number of bars where students hang out. There are also parties hosted by fraternities and sororities. Things are quieter during the summer months when students are mostly gone.

Is Chapel Hill or Gatlinburg Better for Resorts?

Gatlinburg is well known for its resorts. However, Chapel Hill is not a resort destination.

Gatlinburg is known as a popular and fun resort destination. There are plenty of resorts and vacation clubs near town. Many have pools, waterslides, or hot tubs.

Chapel Hill is not a resort destination.

Is Chapel Hill or Gatlinburg Better for Hiking?

Gatlinburg is well known for its hiking experiences. However, Chapel Hill is not a hiking destination.

You'll find a nice variety of hiking trails around Gatlinburg. 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.

Chapel Hill is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Chapel Hill or Gatlinburg?

Shopping is a popular activity in both Gatlinburg and Chapel Hill.

Many visitors go to Chapel Hill to go shopping. There are a mix of local shops, larger shopping centers, and suburban malls. There are also weekly farmer's markets that are fun to check out.

Plenty of visitors enjoy shopping while in 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 Chapel Hill or Gatlinburg Better for Families?

Chapel Hill is very good for its kid-friendly activities. However, Gatlinburg is not a family-friendly destination.

Chapel Hill offers lots of family activities. You can wander around the UNC campus or visit one of the museums affiliated with the school. This includes a planetarium that has regular shows and movies (The Morehead Planetarium and Science Center). There are also science exhibits geared specifically towards kids.

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 Chapel Hill or Gatlinburg Better for Couples?

Gatlinburg is well known for couples. Also, Chapel Hill is still popular, but not quite as popular for romance.

Couples visit Gatlinburg frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. 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.

Chapel Hill is a nice destination for couples. There's an eclectic mix of restaurants on Franklin Street. Couples will also enjoy exploring the campus at UNC, visiting the botanical garden, or checking out one of the town's museums.

Is Chapel Hill or Gatlinburg Better for Students?

Chapel Hill is renowned for its student-friendly activities. However, Gatlinburg is not popular with students.

Students come from all over the world to visit Chapel Hill. It's a quintessential college town. UNC has a nice campus and Franklin Street is the main spot for restaurants and shopping. Most of the students live near or on campus, but once you head further out things get more suburban.

Gatlinburg is not popular with students.

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

You'll find somewhat comparable public transit options in both Chapel Hill and Gatlinburg.

You'll find some public transit in Chapel Hill, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There are bus routes that operate between Chapel Hill and Carrboro.

While Gatlinburg offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There's a free trolley service that offers a convenient way to get around town.

Is Chapel Hill or Gatlinburg a more walkable city?

Gatlinburg is well known for its ease of walking around. Also, Chapel Hill is still popular, but not quite as popular for its walkability.

Gatlinburg is a very walkable destination. 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.

Chapel Hill is somewhat walkable. The area around UNC is the most walkable part of town. Elsewhere things are very suburban and you'll need a car.

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

Should I spend more time in Gatlinburg or Chapel Hill?

How long in Chapel Hill or Gatlinburg?

It's fun to spend time in either Chapel Hill 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 Chapel Hill, and 2-4 days is enough time in Gatlinburg.

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

Couples should spend more time in Gatlinburg than Chapel Hill. 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 Chapel Hill 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.

One day in Chapel Hill or Gatlinburg?

With museums and nightlife around the student-oriented town of Chapel Hill, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Chapel Hill, one day is sufficent for most.

Visitors enjoy the skiing and nightlife when visiting the high energy city of Gatlinburg. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Most people visit for the nightlife. 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.

A weekend in Chapel Hill or Gatlinburg?

With nightlife and food around the destination of Chapel Hill, there's plenty to do. It offers something for everyone. Many people spend a weekend here. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this town.

Visitors enjoy the nightlife and shopping when visiting the wild destination of Gatlinburg. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. This city offers something for everyone. Plenty of people spend a weekend in the area when traveling. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

Five days in Chapel Hill or Gatlinburg?

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

The high energy city of Gatlinburg offers shopping and museums. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

A week in Chapel Hill or Gatlinburg?

Chapel Hill 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.

Many people enjoy the museums and skiing when visiting Gatlinburg. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. Most people visit for the nightlife. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 3-Week Tours in United States of America, The Best Bicycle Tours in United States of America, Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in United States of America, and The Best Coach Bus Tours in United States of America.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Chapel Hill and Gatlinburg, we can see that Gatlinburg is more expensive. And not only is Chapel Hill much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Chapel Hill would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Chapel Hill 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 Chapel Hill.

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

Which is Bigger, Chapel Hill or Gatlinburg?

Chapel Hill has a larger population, and is about 10 times larger than the population of Gatlinburg. When comparing the sizes of Chapel Hill 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 Chapel Hill 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 Chapel Hill or Gatlinburg in the Summer?

Both Gatlinburg and Chapel Hill during the summer are popular places to visit. The family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Chapel Hill this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Gatlinburg for the hiking.

In the summer, Chapel Hill is around the same temperature as Gatlinburg. Typically, the summer temperatures in Chapel Hill in July average around 79°F (26°C), and Gatlinburg averages at about 81°F (27°C).

In Gatlinburg, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Chapel Hill. In the summer, Chapel Hill often gets less sunshine than Gatlinburg. Chapel Hill gets 259 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Gatlinburg receives 294 hours of full sun.

Gatlinburg gets a good bit of rain this time of year. It rains a lot this time of the year in Chapel Hill. Chapel Hill usually gets more rain in July than Gatlinburg. Chapel Hill gets 5.1 inches (129 mm) of rain, while Gatlinburg receives 4.7 inches (119 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Chapel Hill or Gatlinburg in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Chapel Hill and Gatlinburg. Many travelers come to Chapel Hill for the shopping scene. Also, many visitors come to Gatlinburg in the autumn for the hiking trails and the shopping scene.

In October, Chapel Hill is generally around the same temperature as Gatlinburg. Daily temperatures in Chapel Hill average around 61°F (16°C), and Gatlinburg fluctuates around 63°F (17°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Gatlinburg this time of the year. In Chapel Hill, it's very sunny this time of the year. Chapel Hill usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Gatlinburg during autumn. Chapel Hill gets 211 hours of sunny skies, while Gatlinburg receives 213 hours of full sun in the autumn.

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

Should I visit Chapel Hill or Gatlinburg in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Chapel Hill as well as Gatlinburg. Many visitors come to Chapel Hill in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Gatlinburg for the skiing, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Gatlinburg can be very cold during winter. Chapel Hill can get quite cold in the winter. Chapel Hill is around the same temperature as Gatlinburg in the winter. The daily temperature in Chapel Hill averages around 40°F (5°C) in January, and Gatlinburg fluctuates around 40°F (5°C).

In the winter, Chapel Hill often gets more sunshine than Gatlinburg. Chapel Hill gets 162 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Gatlinburg receives 134 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Gatlinburg. Chapel Hill usually gets less rain in January than Gatlinburg. Chapel Hill gets 3.2 inches (82 mm) of rain, while Gatlinburg receives 4.7 inches (119 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Chapel Hill or Gatlinburg in the Spring?

Both Gatlinburg and Chapel Hill are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities.

In the spring, Chapel Hill is around the same temperature as Gatlinburg. Typically, the spring temperatures in Chapel Hill in April average around 60°F (16°C), and Gatlinburg averages at about 62°F (17°C).

It's quite sunny in Gatlinburg. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Chapel Hill. Chapel Hill usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Gatlinburg during spring. Chapel Hill gets 251 hours of sunny skies, while Gatlinburg receives 263 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Chapel Hill usually receives less rain than Gatlinburg. Chapel Hill gets 3.1 inches (78 mm) of rain, while Gatlinburg receives 3.6 inches (92 mm) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Gatlinburg and Chapel Hill