A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Chattanooga vs. Adirondack Mountains for Hiking, Families, Couples, and Backpackers

Should you visit Chattanooga or Adirondack Mountains?

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

Should I visit Chattanooga or Adirondack Mountains? 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.

Chattanooga

Chattanooga is a thriving, bustling, and outdoorsy city. And you can't forget about the hiking, shopping, and museums. See Chattanooga travel costs.

Adirondack Mountains

Adirondack Mountains is a pristine, scenic, and serene region. With stunning beauty, Adirondack Mountains attracts visitors from all around. Other popular activities here include food, hiking, and shopping. See Adirondack Mountains travel costs.

Chattanooga and Adirondack Mountains: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good public transit
  • Very walkable
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with backpackers
Pros
  • Popular for skiing
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Nice resorts
  • Good for hiking
  • Known for its beauty
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Public transit not as usable
  • Less walkable


Is there more to do in Chattanooga or Adirondack Mountains?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Adirondack Mountains. Although Chattanooga and Adirondack Mountains are both popular with visitors, Adirondack Mountains has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Adirondack Mountains is more touristy than Chattanooga and is known for its miles of hiking trails, beautiful lakes, and pristine forests. It is also home to Whiteface Mountain. Chattanooga is popular for it's hikes, railways, and nearby natural areas.

How is Chattanooga different from Adirondack Mountains?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Chattanooga or Adirondack Mountains Better for Skiing?

Chattanooga
Adirondack Mountains

Adirondack Mountains is a popular place for winter skiing. However, Chattanooga is not a skiing destination.

Head to Adirondack Mountains for some great skiing and other winter activities. There are a number of ski resorts in the area with some of the most popular being Whiteface, Titus Mountain, and Oak Mountain.

Chattanooga is not a skiing destination.


Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Chattanooga or Adirondack Mountains?

Chattanooga
Adirondack Mountains

For an educational experience, head to a museum or a notable sight in either Chattanooga or Adirondack Mountains.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Chattanooga. 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.

Adirondack Mountains is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. You can learn about local culture and heritage at any of the museums in the area. At the Adirondack Experience you can visit a vast campus that offers an open-air experience relating to the region's history. Other educational centers in the area include a wildlife center, several art museums, as well as battlefields, forts, and war museums.

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

Chattanooga
Adirondack Mountains

Dining out at restaurants in both Chattanooga and Adirondack Mountains can be an enjoyable experience.

There are many up and coming restaurants in the Chattanooga area. 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.

There are plenty of up and coming restaurants around Adirondack Mountains. Steakhouses, pancake shops, and local diners all serve up fresh and local dishes. Many visitors like to pack a picnic that they can enjoy along a hiking trail, but if you're looking for a sit down option, there are also plenty of restaurants to choose from.

Is Chattanooga or Adirondack Mountains Better for Nightlife?

Chattanooga
Adirondack Mountains

It's hard to distinguish whether Chattanooga or Adirondack Mountains has a better nightlife scene.

Chattanooga has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. 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.

If you're looking for night time activities Adirondack Mountains has a few options to choose from. There are laid back bars and pubs in the area, but for the best nightlife scene, head to Lake Placid.


Is Chattanooga or Adirondack Mountains Better for Resorts?

Chattanooga
Adirondack Mountains

Adirondack Mountains is a great destination for its resorts. However, Chattanooga is not a resort destination.

Adirondack Mountains is known as a popular and fun resort destination. Lodges and inns fill with vacationers who enjoy the pools and scenic settings that many of the resorts offer. Many places have a summer camp atmosphere that feels both wholesome and adventurous.

Chattanooga is not a resort destination.

Is Chattanooga or Adirondack Mountains Better for Hiking?

Chattanooga
Adirondack Mountains

If you're looking to go hiking, Chattanooga and Adirondack Mountains both have high quality trails.

You'll find a nice variety of hiking trails around Chattanooga. 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 go to Adirondack Mountains for the hiking trails. Trails range from easy to challenging and each passes through beautiful and diverse landscapes. You can climb to scenic viewpoints or explore pristine forests. It's the perfect way to escape into nature for a bit.

Is the Shopping Better in Chattanooga or Adirondack Mountains?

Chattanooga
Adirondack Mountains

Shopping is a popular activity in both Adirondack Mountains and Chattanooga.

Many visitors go to Chattanooga to go shopping. 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.

Plenty of visitors enjoy shopping while in Adirondack Mountains. Many of the towns have a "general store" where you can pick up souvenirs or local items. There are also local artisan shops and even outlet malls in the area.


Is Chattanooga or Adirondack Mountains More Beautiful?

Chattanooga
Adirondack Mountains

Adirondack Mountains is a great destination for its scenery and beauty. However, Chattanooga is not a destination known for its beauty.

With stunning beauty, Adirondack Mountains attracts visitors from all around. Beautiful lakes and waterfalls, serene settings, and striking viewpoints make this a beautiful destination where you can escape into nature.

Chattanooga is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Chattanooga or Adirondack Mountains Better for Families?

Chattanooga
Adirondack Mountains

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

Adirondack Mountains is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. There area is filled with ropes courses, adventure parks, and hiking trails. There are nature centers with information programs for young ones. The kids will also be a enchanted by the waterfalls as the adults are.

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 Chattanooga or Adirondack Mountains Better for Couples?

Chattanooga
Adirondack Mountains

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

Couples visit Adirondack Mountains frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. There are many lodges and inns that are tucked away in the mountains and make for a romantic retreat. Couples will enjoy the hiking and beautiful views. Whether you spend your time cozied up by the fire or out on an adventure, this is a wonderful romantic destination.

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 Chattanooga or Adirondack Mountains Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Chattanooga
Adirondack Mountains

Adirondack Mountains is a great destination for backpackers. However, Chattanooga is a city with minimal options for backpackers and budget travelers.

Adirondack Mountains is a very popular region for backpackers and budget travelers. There are a number of campgrounds and even backcountry camping in the region. The hiking trails and beautiful setting make this a fun place to explore.

Chattanooga is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. It's proximity to the mountains and diverse outdoor activities make this an under-rated destination for many backpackers.

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

Chattanooga
Adirondack Mountains

Chattanooga is notable for its public transit. However, Adirondack Mountains is a mediocre region for times when you don't have a car.

The public transit in Chattanooga can get you around easily. 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.

Public transit is quite limited in Adirondack Mountains. There is no real public transportation in the park.

Is Chattanooga or Adirondack Mountains a more walkable city?

Chattanooga
Adirondack Mountains

Chattanooga is notable for its high level of walkability. However, Adirondack Mountains is a mediocre region for its ease of walking around.

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

Adirondack Mountains is not a very walkable city. While there are many hiking trails, to get around and access most destinations, you'll need a car.


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

Should I spend more time in Adirondack Mountains or Chattanooga?

How long in Chattanooga or Adirondack Mountains?

Both Chattanooga and Adirondack Mountains have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Adirondack Mountains than in Chattanooga. Usually, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Chattanooga, and 3-7 days is enough time in Adirondack Mountains.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Adirondack Mountains 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 Adirondack Mountains.


  • How many days in Chattanooga or Adirondack Mountains? Ideal Length of Stay
    Chattanooga 2-3 
    Adirondack Mountains 3-7

One day in Chattanooga or Adirondack Mountains?

Many travelers enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the destination of Chattanooga. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the scenic region of Adirondack Mountains. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. 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 Chattanooga or Adirondack Mountains?

Chattanooga is a fun place to experience. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Visitors enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the pristine destination of Adirondack Mountains. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. This region offers something for everyone. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

Five days in Chattanooga or Adirondack Mountains?

Many people visit Chattanooga for five days. You'll find museums and nightlife around the city of Chattanooga. 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.

Visitors enjoy the museums and skiing when visiting the pristine region of Adirondack Mountains. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. 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.


A week in Chattanooga or Adirondack Mountains?

The bustling destination of Chattanooga offers nightlife and food. Hikers are also drawn to this area. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Visitors enjoy the skiing and nightlife when visiting the destination of Adirondack Mountains. Anyone can find something fun to do here. This is a popular place to visit for one week. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. In one week, you should have a good grasp of this region.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in United States of America, The Best Historical Tours in United States of America, The Best 10-Day Tours in United States of America, and The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Adirondack Mountains or Chattanooga?

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

  • Chattanooga Prices
    USA Prices
    Adirondack Mountains Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Chattanooga $225
    Adirondack Mountains $202

The average daily cost (per person) in Chattanooga is $225, while the average daily cost in Adirondack Mountains is $202. 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 Chattanooga and Adirondack Mountains in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Chattanooga $92
    Adirondack Mountains $97
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Chattanooga $184
    Adirondack Mountains $194
Compare Hotels in Chattanooga and Adirondack Mountains

Looking for a hotel in Chattanooga or Adirondack Mountains? 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 Chattanooga


Hotels in Adirondack Mountains


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: Chattanooga Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Chattanooga $35
    Adirondack Mountains $33
Typical Local Transportation Prices in Chattanooga

Here are some examples of typical transportation prices from actual travelers in Chattanooga:


  • Chattanooga Zoo (for 2)
    $16

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Chattanooga

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Chattanooga:

  • Private One Way Transfer from/to Chattanooga Airport and Hotels: $185

Is it cheaper to fly into Chattanooga or Adirondack Mountains?

Prices for flights to both Adirondack Mountains and Chattanooga 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
    Chattanooga $103
    Adirondack Mountains $85

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Chattanooga

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Chattanooga.

  • Historic Southside Food Tour in Chattanooga: $99
  • Downtown Chattanooga Food Tour: $119
  • ChattaBrunch Food Tour: $119
  • ChattaBrunch Food Tour: $119
  • Southside Food Tour with Lunch: $129
  • Downtown Food Tour with 3-4 Tastings: $139

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Chattanooga $52
    Adirondack Mountains $17

Tours and Activities in Chattanooga

Here are a few actual costs in Chattanooga for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • Chattanooga Blues to Bridges Self Guided Walking Tour: $9.75
  • National Medal of Honor Heritage Museum Admission Ticket in Chattanooga: $14
  • Guided Ghost Walking Tour: $23
  • Chattanooga Crypts and Chills Ghost Tour: $24
  • Murder & Mayhem Haunted History Walking Tour: $25
  • Original Local Award-Winning Walking Ghost Tour: $25
  • Family Friendly Ghost Tour in Chattanooga: $30
  • A Spooky and Family-Friendly Walking Tour: $30
  • Ghost & Booze Tour of Chattanooga - 21+ Over: $31
  • Chattanooga Crypts and Chills Ghost Tour: $32
  • The Flash City Sightseeing Tour by Trolley: $34
  • The Flash: 1 Hour City Tour : $34

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Chattanooga $24
    Adirondack Mountains $19

Sample the Local Flavors in Chattanooga

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

  • Distillery Tour at Gate 11: $18
  • Chattanooga Wine Tasting with Art Sightseeing Tour: $180


When comparing the travel costs between Chattanooga and Adirondack Mountains, we can see that Chattanooga 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 Chattanooga Expensive? and Is Adirondack Mountains Expensive?.



When is the best time to visit Chattanooga or Adirondack Mountains?

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 Chattanooga or Adirondack Mountains in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Chattanooga and Adirondack Mountains. The summer months attract visitors to Chattanooga because of the hiking and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, the hiking and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Adirondack Mountains this time of year.

In July, Chattanooga is generally a little warmer than Adirondack Mountains. Daily temperatures in Chattanooga average around 81°F (27°C), and Adirondack Mountains fluctuates around 71°F (22°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Adirondack Mountains this time of the year. In Chattanooga, it's very sunny this time of the year. Chattanooga usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Adirondack Mountains during summer. Chattanooga gets 265 hours of sunny skies, while Adirondack Mountains receives 285 hours of full sun in the summer.

Chattanooga gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In July, Chattanooga usually receives more rain than Adirondack Mountains. Chattanooga gets 5.2 inches (131 mm) of rain, while Adirondack Mountains receives 3 inches (75 mm) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Chattanooga 81°F (27°C) 
    Adirondack Mountains 71°F (22°C)

Should I visit Chattanooga or Adirondack Mountains in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Chattanooga as well as Adirondack Mountains. The hiking trails and the shopping scene are the main draw to Chattanooga this time of year. Additionally, many travelers come to Adirondack Mountains for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

Chattanooga is much warmer than Adirondack Mountains in the autumn. The daily temperature in Chattanooga averages around 63°F (17°C) in October, and Adirondack Mountains fluctuates around 49°F (9°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Chattanooga this time of the year. In the autumn, Chattanooga often gets more sunshine than Adirondack Mountains. Chattanooga gets 211 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Adirondack Mountains receives 144 hours of full sun.

Chattanooga usually gets around the same amount of rain in October as Adirondack Mountains. Chattanooga gets 3 inches (75 mm) of rain, while Adirondack Mountains receives 2.8 inches (72 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Chattanooga 63°F (17°C) 
    Adirondack Mountains 49°F (9°C)

Should I visit Chattanooga or Adirondack Mountains in the Winter?

Both Adirondack Mountains and Chattanooga are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Chattanooga for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Adirondack Mountains in the winter for the skiing, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Adirondack Mountains can get quite cold in the winter. Be prepared for some very cold days in Chattanooga. In the winter, Chattanooga is much warmer than Adirondack Mountains. Typically, the winter temperatures in Chattanooga in January average around 40°F (5°C), and Adirondack Mountains averages at about 18°F (-8°C).

Chattanooga usually receives more sunshine than Adirondack Mountains during winter. Chattanooga gets 145 hours of sunny skies, while Adirondack Mountains receives 124 hours of full sun in the winter.

It's quite rainy in Chattanooga. In January, Chattanooga usually receives more rain than Adirondack Mountains. Chattanooga gets 5.4 inches (137 mm) of rain, while Adirondack Mountains receives 2.6 inches (65 mm) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Chattanooga 40°F (5°C) 
    Adirondack Mountains 18°F (-8°C)

Should I visit Chattanooga or Adirondack Mountains in the Spring?

Both Adirondack Mountains and Chattanooga during the spring are popular places to visit. Also, most visitors come to Adirondack Mountains for the natural beauty during these months.

In April, Chattanooga is generally much warmer than Adirondack Mountains. Daily temperatures in Chattanooga average around 62°F (17°C), and Adirondack Mountains fluctuates around 46°F (8°C).

In Adirondack Mountains, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Chattanooga. In the spring, Chattanooga often gets more sunshine than Adirondack Mountains. Chattanooga gets 243 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Adirondack Mountains receives 210 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Chattanooga. Chattanooga usually gets more rain in April than Adirondack Mountains. Chattanooga gets 4.4 inches (112 mm) of rain, while Adirondack Mountains receives 3 inches (75 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Chattanooga 62°F (17°C) 
    Adirondack Mountains 46°F (8°C)

Typical Weather for Adirondack Mountains and Chattanooga

Chattanooga Adirondack Mountains
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 40°F (5°C) 5.4 inches (137 mm) 18°F (-8°C) 2.6 inches (65 mm)
Feb 44°F (7°C) 5.2 inches (132 mm) 21°F (-6°C) 2.2 inches (57 mm)
Mar 53°F (12°C) 5.6 inches (143 mm) 33°F (1°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm)
Apr 62°F (17°C) 4.4 inches (112 mm) 46°F (8°C) 3 inches (75 mm)
May 70°F (21°C) 3.4 inches (87 mm) 57°F (14°C) 3.6 inches (91 mm)
Jun 78°F (25°C) 3.7 inches (93 mm) 66°F (19°C) 3.2 inches (81 mm)
Jul 81°F (27°C) 5.2 inches (131 mm) 71°F (22°C) 3 inches (75 mm)
Aug 80°F (27°C) 3.2 inches (82 mm) 69°F (20°C) 3.6 inches (92 mm)
Sep 74°F (24°C) 3.7 inches (94 mm) 60°F (16°C) 3.1 inches (79 mm)
Oct 63°F (17°C) 3 inches (75 mm) 49°F (9°C) 2.8 inches (72 mm)
Nov 53°F (12°C) 3.9 inches (100 mm) 38°F (4°C) 3.1 inches (78 mm)
Dec 44°F (7°C) 5.2 inches (133 mm) 25°F (-4°C) 2.9 inches (75 mm)