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

Should you visit Clearwater or Gatlinburg?

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

Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for Clearwater and Gatlinburg. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.

Clearwater

Clearwater is a adventure-filled, relaxing, and beautiful coastal city. Other reasons to visit include beaches, shopping, and museums. See Clearwater travel costs.

Gatlinburg

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

Clearwater and Gatlinburg: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Clearwater or Gatlinburg?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Clearwater. Although Clearwater and Gatlinburg are both popular with visitors, Clearwater has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Clearwater is more popular for its museums and attractions, food, scuba diving & snorkeling, and beaches, while Gatlinburg is known for its skiing, nightlife, and hiking. Gatlinburg is more touristy than Clearwater and is popular for its countless entertainment venues as well as its easy access to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Clearwater is popular for its beautiful white sand beaches, laid back atmosphere, and watersports. It is also home to Clearwater Beach.

How is Clearwater different from Gatlinburg?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Clearwater or Gatlinburg Better for Skiing?

Gatlinburg is a good destination for snow skiing. However, Clearwater 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.

Clearwater is not a skiing destination.

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

Clearwater 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 Clearwater specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. Perhaps most well known is the Clearwater Marine Aquarium, but there are also a surprising number of museums nearby such as the Dalí Museum, the impressive Chihuly Glass Museum, and the Museum of Fine Arts.

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 Clearwater or Gatlinburg? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Clearwater 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 Clearwater. Head to the waterfront for some of the best seafood. Unfortunately this is also where you'll find the highest prices. Shrimp, crab, and a fresh catch of the day are common on many menus.

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 Clearwater or Gatlinburg Better for Nightlife?

Gatlinburg is a world-class destination for nightlife. Also, Clearwater is not as famous, but is still a good coastal city to visit for nightlife and partying.

People head to Gatlinburg just to party. 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.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Clearwater. You'll find laid back beach clubs, glitzy wine bars, and relaxed bars where you can spend a nice night out.

Is Clearwater or Gatlinburg Better for Resorts?

There are high quality resorts to choose from in both Clearwater and Gatlinburg.

There are plenty of resorts in Clearwater to choose from. You'll find a number of nice resorts along the coastline. Some of the most popular are the Sandpearl Resort, the Opal Sands Resort, and the Clearwater Beach Marriott.

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.

Is Clearwater or Gatlinburg Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Clearwater is very good for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Gatlinburg is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

It's worth going snorkeling or scuba diving in Clearwater. There's both snorkeling and diving nearby. Some of the best dive spots are within and hour of the shore and you'll find diving shops that offer trips.

Gatlinburg is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Clearwater or Gatlinburg Better for Beaches?

Clearwater is renowned for its beaches. However, Gatlinburg is not a beach destination.

With world-famous beaches, Clearwater is a very popular vacation destination. Clearwater Beach is on many lists as one of the best beaches in America. It's the most popular beach in the area and it spreads out over 2.5 miles. Sand Key Beach is another popular destination as is the pristine Caladesi Island State Park.

Gatlinburg is not a beach destination.

Is Clearwater or Gatlinburg Better for Hiking?

Gatlinburg is notable for the nearby hiking options. However, Clearwater 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.

Clearwater is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Clearwater or Gatlinburg?

Both Clearwater and Gatlinburg are good shopping destinations.

Clearwater is a great destination for shopping. You'll find all of the standard shopping options in the area such as malls, shopping centers, and outlets. Westfield Countryside Mall is a popular destination as is the Cleveland Street District.

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 Clearwater or Gatlinburg Better for Families?

Clearwater is great for its kid-friendly activities. However, Gatlinburg is not a family-friendly destination.

Clearwater is a very family-friendly destination. Check out the playground and activities around Pier 60. Less crowded and family-friendly Sand Key Park is another favorite spot and the playgrounds at New Coachman Park and Crest Lake Park are also fun. Clearwater Marine Aquarium is another popular attraction for visitors with 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 Clearwater or Gatlinburg Better for Couples?

Clearwater and Gatlinburg both high quality destinations for a couple.

Clearwater is a very popular place to visit for couples. There are beautiful parks and beaches as well as romantic activities like sunset cruises and dolphin spotting tours. Couples will also enjoy dining on local seafood and shopping at the local venues.

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

Gatlinburg is a good destination for its public transit. However, Clearwater is a mediocre coastal city 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 mostly limited in Clearwater. The Clearwater Jolley Trolley connects some of the area's highlights. There are also public buses that run several routes through town.

Is Clearwater or Gatlinburg a more walkable city?

Gatlinburg is notable for its walkability. Also, Clearwater is not as famous, but is still a good coastal city to visit for its high level of walkability.

Gatlinburg is very walkable. 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.

Clearwater is a somewhat walkable place. The waterfront and downtown areas are surprisingly walkable.

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

Should I spend more time in Gatlinburg or Clearwater?

How long in Clearwater or Gatlinburg?

It's fun to spend time in either Clearwater or Gatlinburg. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Clearwater due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 3-5 days is a good amount of time for Clearwater, and 2-4 days is enough time in Gatlinburg.

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

Couples should spend more time in Gatlinburg than Clearwater. 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 Clearwater 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 Clearwater or Gatlinburg?

With food and scuba diving and snorkeling around the relaxing coastal city of Clearwater, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. One of the main draws to the area is the beaches. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

With museums and skiing around the wild city of Gatlinburg, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. One of the main draws to the area is the nightlife. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Clearwater or Gatlinburg?

With scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping around the destination of Clearwater, there's plenty to do. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. It offers something for everyone. One of the main draws to the area is the beaches. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything.

With skiing and nightlife around the destination of Gatlinburg, there's plenty to do. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. It offers something for everyone. Many people spend a weekend here. One of the main draws to the area is the nightlife. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this city.

Five days in Clearwater or Gatlinburg?

Clearwater, a popular coastal city, is full of activities for travelers. This is a popular place to visit for five days. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. In five days, you should have a good grasp of this coastal city. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Gatlinburg, a popular city, is full of activities for travelers. 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. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

A week in Clearwater or Gatlinburg?

Clearwater is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. One of the main draws to the area is the beaches. 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 popular place that is full of things to see and experience. One of the main draws to the area is the nightlife. 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.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Wildlife Tours to United States of America, The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in United States of America, The Best Historical Tours in United States of America, and The Best 10-Day Tours in United States of America.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Clearwater or Gatlinburg?

Clearwater has a larger population, and is about 30 times larger than the population of Gatlinburg. When comparing the sizes of Clearwater 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 Clearwater 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 Clearwater or Gatlinburg in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Clearwater as well as Gatlinburg. Many travelers come to Clearwater for the beaches, snorkeling, and the family-friendly experiences. Additionally, many visitors come to Gatlinburg in the summer for the hiking.

Clearwater is around the same temperature as Gatlinburg in the summer. The daily temperature in Clearwater 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 Clearwater this time of the year. In the summer, Clearwater often gets less sunshine than Gatlinburg. Clearwater gets 265 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Gatlinburg receives 294 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Gatlinburg. Clearwater receives a lot of rain in the summer. Clearwater usually gets more rain in July than Gatlinburg. Clearwater gets 8.4 inches (214 mm) of rain, while Gatlinburg receives 4.7 inches (119 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Clearwater or Gatlinburg in the Autumn?

Both Gatlinburg and Clearwater are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Clearwater in the autumn for the shopping scene. Also, most visitors come to Gatlinburg for the hiking trails and the shopping scene during these months.

In the autumn, Clearwater is a little warmer than Gatlinburg. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Clearwater in October average around 75°F (24°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 Clearwater. Clearwater usually receives more sunshine than Gatlinburg during autumn. Clearwater gets 234 hours of sunny skies, while Gatlinburg receives 213 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Clearwater usually receives around the same amount of rain as Gatlinburg. Clearwater gets 2.6 inches (65 mm) of rain, while Gatlinburg receives 2.7 inches (68 mm) of rain each month for the autumn. June to November in Clearwater is the hurricane season.

Should I visit Clearwater or Gatlinburg in the Winter?

Both Gatlinburg and Clearwater during the winter are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Clearwater for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Gatlinburg because of the skiing, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

The weather in Gatlinburg can be very cold. In January, Clearwater is generally much warmer than Gatlinburg. Daily temperatures in Clearwater average around 60°F (15°C), and Gatlinburg fluctuates around 40°F (5°C).

It's quite sunny in Clearwater. In the winter, Clearwater often gets more sunshine than Gatlinburg. Clearwater gets 200 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. Clearwater usually gets less rain in January than Gatlinburg. Clearwater gets 2.3 inches (59 mm) of rain, while Gatlinburg receives 4.7 inches (119 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Clearwater or Gatlinburg in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Clearwater and Gatlinburg. The spring months attract visitors to Clearwater because of the beaches.

Clearwater is a little warmer than Gatlinburg in the spring. The daily temperature in Clearwater averages around 71°F (22°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 Clearwater, it's very sunny this time of the year. Clearwater usually receives more sunshine than Gatlinburg during spring. Clearwater gets 299 hours of sunny skies, while Gatlinburg receives 263 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Clearwater usually receives less rain than Gatlinburg. Clearwater gets 2.1 inches (53 mm) of rain, while Gatlinburg receives 3.6 inches (92 mm) of rain each month for the spring. The hurricane season in Clearwater is June to November.

Typical Weather for Gatlinburg and Clearwater