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

Should you visit Chattanooga or Monterey?

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

Should I visit Chattanooga or Monterey? 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 bustling, outdoorsy, and thriving city. It's also popular because of the food, hiking, and shopping. See Chattanooga travel costs.

Monterey

Monterey is a nature-oriented, laid back, and relaxing city. Other popular activities here include scuba diving and snorkeling, beaches, and shopping. See Monterey travel costs.

Chattanooga and Monterey: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Chattanooga or Monterey?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Monterey. Although Chattanooga and Monterey are popular destinations, Monterey has more sights and attractions for tourists. Monterey is very popular for its museums and attractions, food, nightlife, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and shopping, while Chattanooga attracts visitors for its hiking. Monterey is more touristy than Chattanooga and is popular for its rugged coastline, diverse marine life, and excellent seafood. It is also well known for the Monterey Bay Aquarium. Chattanooga is famous for it's hikes, railways, and nearby natural areas.

How is Chattanooga different from Monterey?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Monterey is a great destination for its museums and landmarks. Also, Chattanooga is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historical sights.

Monterey offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. The Monterey Bay Aquarium is a not-to-be-missed destination in town. You can also visit the Monterey State Historic Park or the Monterey Museum of Art.

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

Monterey is a great destination for its restaurant scene. Also, Chattanooga is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

Dining out in Monterey is an experience not to be missed. Seafood and local produce are what make the food special. There are many great restaurants to you can choose from that will let you enjoy the classic seafood dishes like clam chowder or oysters, as well as fresh artichokes and local wine.

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 Chattanooga or Monterey Better for Nightlife?

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

The people in Monterey know how to have a good time. There's a buzzing atmosphere at night with bars, breweries, and casual eateries all coming to life. Some of the best venues are found at the Old Fisherman's Wharf and along Alvarado Street.

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 Chattanooga or Monterey Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Monterey is a popular place for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Chattanooga is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Monterey has a few good snorkeling spots. Scuba diving offers an unforgettable experience. The Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary gives you the unique experience of seeing sea lions, otters, kelp forests, crabs, and more.

Chattanooga is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Chattanooga or Monterey Better for Beaches?

Monterey is a popular place for the beach. However, Chattanooga is not a beach destination.

Monterey is a good option for a beach vacation. The beaches highlight the laid by California vibe with sunbathers and beachgoers soaking up the atmosphere. There are both inlets and sandy beaches where you can see sea lions or explore the tidal pools.

Chattanooga is not a beach destination.

Is Chattanooga or Monterey Better for Hiking?

Chattanooga is a very popular place for its hiking trails. However, Monterey is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors explore the nearby hiking trails while visiting 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.

Monterey is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Chattanooga or Monterey?

Monterey 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 Monterey. You'll find both local vendors and tourist shops around town. Cannery Row is a popular destination, as is Old Fisherman's Wharf and the Old Farmer's Market.

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 Chattanooga or Monterey Better for Families?

Monterey is an unbeatable place for its family-friendly activities. Also, Chattanooga is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

As it has a large number of activities for kids, Monterey is a very family-friendly destination. Monterey Bay Aquarium is a highlight for kids and adults alike. There's also the Monterey Zoo as well as lighthearted activities like a mirror maze. MY Museum is an interactive museum that's perfect for younger kids. There are also whale watching trips and nearby beaches.

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 Monterey Better for Couples?

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

Couples visit Monterey frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. There are many romantic inns in town as well as quaint restaurants and fun activities. There are also spas, wine bars, and plenty of shopping for couples to enjoy as well.

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 Monterey Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Monterey is a popular place for backpackers. However, Chattanooga is a city with minimal options for backpackers and budget travelers.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Monterey. There's a hostel in town as well as fun activities that will appeal to backpackers.

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 Monterey Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Chattanooga is a very popular place for times when you don't have a car. However, Monterey is lacking in good options for its public transit.

Chattanooga offers a very effecient public transportation network. 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 generally limited in Monterey. There is a bus system through the area.

Is Chattanooga or Monterey a more walkable city?

Chattanooga and Monterey both are superb when exploring on foot.

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

Monterey is very walkable. If you stay near the town center, it's very walkable and easy to get around on foot.

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

Should I spend more time in Monterey or Chattanooga?

How long in Chattanooga or Monterey?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Chattanooga and Monterey. In our opinion, Monterey has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Monterey than Chattanooga. In general, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Chattanooga, and 1-3 days is enough time in Monterey.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Monterey 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 Monterey.

One day in Chattanooga or Monterey?

The city of Chattanooga offers food 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.

Visitors enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping when visiting the laid back city of Monterey. One day should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A weekend in Chattanooga or Monterey?

Chattanooga 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. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Chattanooga, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Visitors enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the nature-oriented destination of Monterey. 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 Chattanooga or Monterey?

Chattanooga is a popular choice for travelers. 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.

The relaxing city of Monterey offers museums and nightlife. 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 Monterey?

Chattanooga is a great place to explore. 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.

Many people enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting Monterey. 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.

When comparing the travel costs between Chattanooga and Monterey, 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 Monterey Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Chattanooga or Monterey?

Chattanooga has a larger population, and is about 5 times larger than the population of Monterey. When comparing the sizes of Chattanooga and Monterey, 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 Chattanooga or Monterey?

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 Chattanooga or Monterey in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Chattanooga as well as Monterey. Most visitors come to Chattanooga for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Monterey because of the beaches, snorkeling, and the family-friendly experiences.

Chattanooga is much warmer than Monterey in the summer. The daily temperature in Chattanooga averages around 81°F (27°C) in July, and Monterey fluctuates around 63°F (17°C).

Chattanooga receives a lot of rain in the summer. Chattanooga usually gets more rain in July than Monterey. Chattanooga gets 5.2 inches (131 mm) of rain, while Monterey receives 0 inches (1 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Chattanooga or Monterey in the Autumn?

Both Monterey and Chattanooga are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The autumn months attract visitors to Chattanooga because of the hiking trails and the shopping scene. Also, the shopping scene are the main draw to Monterey this time of year.

In the autumn, Chattanooga is around the same temperature as Monterey. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Chattanooga in October average around 63°F (17°C), and Monterey averages at about 62°F (17°C).

In October, Chattanooga usually receives more rain than Monterey. Chattanooga gets 3 inches (75 mm) of rain, while Monterey receives 0.6 inches (14 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Chattanooga or Monterey in the Winter?

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

It's quite cold in Chattanooga in the winter. In January, Chattanooga is generally much colder than Monterey. Daily temperatures in Chattanooga average around 40°F (5°C), and Monterey fluctuates around 51°F (11°C).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Chattanooga. Chattanooga usually gets more rain in January than Monterey. Chattanooga gets 5.4 inches (137 mm) of rain, while Monterey receives 2.3 inches (58 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Chattanooga or Monterey in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Chattanooga and Monterey. Furthermore, many visitors come to Monterey in the spring for the beaches.

Chattanooga is a little warmer than Monterey in the spring. The daily temperature in Chattanooga averages around 62°F (17°C) in April, and Monterey fluctuates around 56°F (13°C).

Chattanooga gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In April, Chattanooga usually receives more rain than Monterey. Chattanooga gets 4.4 inches (112 mm) of rain, while Monterey receives 1.1 inches (29 mm) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Monterey and Chattanooga