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

Should you visit Chattanooga or Avon?

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

Should I visit Chattanooga or Avon? 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 outdoorsy, thriving, and bustling city. It's also known for food, hiking, and shopping. See Chattanooga travel costs.

Avon

Avon is a active, outdoorsy, and scenic town. Other popular activities here include food, hiking, and skiing. See Avon travel costs.

Chattanooga and Avon: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with backpackers
Pros
  • Popular for skiing
  • Active nightlife
  • Nice resorts
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • Less popular with backpackers


Is there more to do in Chattanooga or Avon?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Avon than Chattanooga, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Avon is better known for its skiing and resorts, while Chattanooga is more popular for its museums and attractions, hiking, and shopping. Avon is more touristy than Chattanooga and is known for it's affordable accommodation options and its access to Beaver Creek Ski Resort. Also, Avon is famous for Avon Recreation Center. Chattanooga is well known for it's hikes, railways, and nearby natural areas.

How is Chattanooga different from Avon?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Chattanooga or Avon Better for Skiing?

Chattanooga
Avon

Avon is a great destination for winter skiing. However, Chattanooga is not a skiing destination.

Avon is a well-known ski destination which attracts visitors from far and wide. Beaver Creek is the main ski area near town and it's about a mile away. The town of Avon is below Beaver Creek and is located beside an interstate.

Chattanooga is not a skiing destination.


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

Chattanooga
Avon

Chattanooga is a good destination for its sights and museums. However, Avon is a mediocre town for its museums and history.

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.

While most people don't head to Avon specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. While there aren't a ton of museums in the area, it's worth checking out the Walking Mountains Science Center.

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

Chattanooga
Avon

Dining out at restaurants in both Chattanooga and Avon 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 Avon. There are casual eateries where you can grab a bite to eat, whether you're in the mood for Chinese, pizza, or burgers.

Is Chattanooga or Avon Better for Nightlife?

Chattanooga
Avon

It's hard to distinguish whether Chattanooga or Avon 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 Avon has a few options to choose from. It's a small town but there are some bars and lively pubs where you can enjoy cold drinks.


Is Chattanooga or Avon Better for Resorts?

Chattanooga
Avon

Avon is a popular place for its resorts. However, Chattanooga is not a resort destination.

Avon has a few great resort options. There are the typical chain resort options, many with beautiful mountain views.

Chattanooga is not a resort destination.

Is Chattanooga or Avon Better for Hiking?

Chattanooga
Avon

Chattanooga is notable for the nearby hiking options. Also, Avon is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its hiking trails.

Chattanooga is a popular spot for hiking. 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.

Avon is a good destination for hiking. There are paved trails and recreational paths through town that are great for both hiking and biking. The main ones are Eagle Valley Trail and the trails in West Avon Preserve.

Is the Shopping Better in Chattanooga or Avon?

Chattanooga
Avon

Chattanooga is a good destination for shopping. However, Avon is a mediocre town for its shopping opportunities.

Chattanooga is a great destination for 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.

If you're looking to go shopping, Avon has some nice offerings. There aren't a ton of shopping opportunities in town, but there are enough shops around in case you need to pick up necessities or buy a gift.


Is Chattanooga or Avon Better for Families?

Chattanooga
Avon

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Chattanooga or Avon.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Chattanooga. 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.

Avon offers lots of family activities. There are parks and playgrounds around town and there's easy access to the Beaver Creek Ski Resort. There's also plenty of hiking in the area.

Is Chattanooga or Avon Better for Couples?

Chattanooga
Avon

With fun activities for couples, both Chattanooga and Avon make for a notable place to visit.

Chattanooga is a good city for couples to visit. 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.

Avon is a nice destination for couples. While avid skiers prefer to stay at nearby Beaver Creek, the town of Avon offers a good alternative.

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

Chattanooga
Avon

Chattanooga is notable for its public transit. Also, Avon is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for times when you don't have a car.

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.

Avon has some public transit options. There are shuttles and buses that travel through town and to Beaver Creek.


Is Chattanooga or Avon a more walkable city?

Chattanooga
Avon

Chattanooga is notable for its walkability. Also, Avon is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its high level of walkability.

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.

Avon is a somewhat walkable place. The town center is small and there are paved walking trails that you can use. It's possible to walk to restaurants or the recreation center, depending on where you're staying.

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

Should I spend more time in Avon or Chattanooga?

How long in Chattanooga or Avon?

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

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

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


  • How many days in Chattanooga or Avon? Ideal Length of Stay
    Chattanooga 2-3 
    Avon 2-4

One day in Chattanooga or Avon?

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the destination of Chattanooga. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

Visitors enjoy the skiing and nightlife when visiting the active town of Avon. 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 Avon?

Chattanooga is a fun place to experience. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. Hikers are also drawn to this area. A weekend is often enough time to do most activities. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Visitors enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the scenic destination of Avon. This town 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 Chattanooga or Avon?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the outdoorsy destination of Chattanooga. This city offers something for everyone. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

The active town of Avon offers food and skiing. 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 Chattanooga or Avon?

The outdoorsy city of Chattanooga offers nightlife and food. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. One week 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.

Many people enjoy the skiing and nightlife when visiting Avon. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.


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, Avon 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
    Avon Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Chattanooga $225
    Avon $326

The average daily cost (per person) in Chattanooga is $225, while the average daily cost in Avon is $326. 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 Avon in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Chattanooga $92
    Avon $177
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Chattanooga $184
    Avon $354
Compare Hotels in Chattanooga and Avon

Looking for a hotel in Chattanooga or Avon? 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 Avon


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 and Avon Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Chattanooga $35
    Avon $41
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 Avon?

Prices for flights to both Avon 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
    Avon $117

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
    Avon $48

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
    Avon $38

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 we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Chattanooga and Avon, we can see that Avon is more expensive. And not only is Chattanooga much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Chattanooga would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Chattanooga 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 Avon would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Avon than you might in Chattanooga.

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


Which is Bigger, Chattanooga or Avon?

Chattanooga has a larger population, and is about 20 times larger than the population of Avon. When comparing the sizes of Chattanooga and Avon, 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.