A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Cumberland Island National Seashore vs. Memphis for Couples, Backpackers, and Families

Should you visit Cumberland Island National Seashore or Memphis?

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

Should I visit Cumberland Island National Seashore or Memphis? 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.

Cumberland Island National Seashore

Cumberland Island National Seashore is a untouched, pristine, and secluded island. With stunning beauty, Cumberland Island National Seashore attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the beaches and hiking. See Cumberland Island National Seashore travel costs.

Memphis

Memphis is a soulful, creative, and laid-back city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. Other reasons to visit include museums, nightlife, and live music. See Memphis travel costs.

Cumberland Island National Seashore and Memphis: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Cumberland Island National Seashore or Memphis?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Memphis than Cumberland Island National Seashore, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Memphis is better known for its museums and attractions, food, nightlife, music, shopping, and big city activities, while Cumberland Island National Seashore is more popular for its beaches, hiking, and impressive beauty. Cumberland Island National Seashore is more touristy than Memphis and is known for its pristine and undeveloped beaches, miles of hiking trails, and wild horses. Memphis is well known for its influential music scene and its southern barbecue. Also, Memphis is famous for Elvis Presley's Graceland.

How is Cumberland Island National Seashore different from Memphis?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Memphis and Cumberland Island National Seashore. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Cumberland Island National Seashore or Memphis?

Memphis is a popular place for its historical sights. However, Cumberland Island National Seashore is not known for its sights and museums.

Memphis is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. Many attractions in town are related to the city's history in music. There is the famed Graceland as well as the Rock 'n' Soul Museum, the Blues Hall of Fame and Stax Museum of American Soul Music. The city also has several art museums that are worth checking out.

Cumberland Island National Seashore offers a few options for museum-goers. There aren't any museums on the island, but on the mainland there's a visitor center as well as the Cumberland Island National Seashore Museum.

Is the Food Better in Cumberland Island National Seashore or Memphis? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Memphis is a great city for its local flavors and cuisine. However, Cumberland Island National Seashore is not known for its local cuisine and restaurants.

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in Memphis. The town has grown into a foodie destination with excellent barbecue and ribs. There are many award winning barbecue joints, but you'll also find casual bars that serve nachos, pizza, and other quick bites.

Most people don't head to Cumberland Island National Seashore for a culinary experience, but it does have restaurants to choose from. There are no restaurants on the island, so you need to pack any food that you might need before you arrive.

Is Cumberland Island National Seashore or Memphis Better for Nightlife?

Memphis is a great city for nightlife. However, Cumberland Island National Seashore is not known for nightlife and partying.

The nightlife in Memphis has something for everybody. Music is at the heart of the nightlife scene. Head to Beale Street in Memphis's downtown for the most active nightlife that usually stays open the latest. You'll also find a lot of bars and clubs in Midtown around Overton Square.

People don't go to Cumberland Island National Seashore for the nightlife. Stargazing is amazing on the island, but you're left to your own devices when it comes to evening entertainment options.

Is Cumberland Island National Seashore or Memphis Better for Music?

Memphis is an amazing city to visit for live music. However, Cumberland Island National Seashore is not a live music destination.

Memphis is known as a music capital around the world. There are plenty of live music venues in the downtown area that you can explore. Several of the most famous include B.B. King's Blues Club, Handy Park Pavilion, and Blues City Cafe. The city is known for its influential role in several music genres including the blues, soul, and rock 'n' roll. There are also many music related museums and attractions in town like Graceland, the Rock 'n' Soul Museum, the Blues Hall of Fame and Stax Museum of American Soul Music.

Cumberland Island National Seashore is not a live music destination.

Is Cumberland Island National Seashore or Memphis Better for Beaches?

Cumberland Island National Seashore is a world-class destination for the beach. However, Memphis is not a beach destination.

The beaches in Cumberland Island National Seashore are among the best in the world. There are 17 miles of pristine beaches along the island. You'll also find wild horses and miles of hiking trails. Swimming is popular, but do take note that there are no lifeguards on the island.

Memphis is not a beach destination.

Is Cumberland Island National Seashore or Memphis Better for Hiking?

Cumberland Island National Seashore is a world-class destination for hiking. However, Memphis is not a hiking destination.

Known for its hiking, Cumberland Island National Seashore draws a crowd to experience the nature and the trails. You'll find more than 50 miles of hiking trails on the island. They pass through a number of ecosystems such as wetlands, forests, and beaches. Most visitors come for the day and spend most of their time on the Southend of the island. This is where you'll find the highest concentration of hiking trails. Some of the most popular trails are Dungeness Roadways, River Trail, and Nightingale Trail.

Memphis is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Cumberland Island National Seashore or Memphis?

Memphis is adequate for shopping. However, Cumberland Island National Seashore is not known for its shopping opportunities.

Memphis is a good destination for shopping. The city has plenty of malls and chain stores where you can grab anything you might need.

Cumberland Island National Seashore has some shopping areas for those that seek them out. There aren't any shops or stores on the island so plan accordingly.

Is Cumberland Island National Seashore or Memphis More Beautiful?

Cumberland Island National Seashore is a great island for its scenery and beauty. However, Memphis is not a destination known for its beauty.

With stunning beauty, Cumberland Island National Seashore attracts visitors from all around. The barrier island has 17 miles of pristine beaches. It offers a truly beautiful setting that feels undiscovered and untouched.

Memphis is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Cumberland Island National Seashore or Memphis Better for Families?

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Cumberland Island National Seashore or Memphis.

Cumberland Island National Seashore offers lots of family activities. In addition to the hiking trails, coastline, and wildlife, the island also has junior ranger programs and educational experiences for kids.

Memphis is a family-friendly place to visit. The town has some great activities for kids including a zoo, several museums, petting farms, and a botanical garden.

Is Cumberland Island National Seashore or Memphis Better for Couples?

Cumberland Island National Seashore is a great island for couples. Also, Memphis is not as popular, but is still a nice city for romance.

Cumberland Island National Seashore is a great island if you're traveling as a couple. Couples will appreciate the pristine coastline, beautiful wildlife, and secluded hiking trails. Many people visit the island as a day trip, but it's also possible to stay at one of the island's campgrounds. For a truly romantic experience you could also stay at the Greyfield Inn.

Memphis is a nice destination for couples. Couples who enjoy good music and southern food will enjoy a weekend here. There are many music related landmarks including Graceland and the Rock 'n' Soul Museum. Live music is very popular as well.

Is Cumberland Island National Seashore or Memphis Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Cumberland Island National Seashore is a great island for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Memphis is not as popular, but is still a nice city for backpackers.

Plenty of budget travelers and backpackers visit Cumberland Island National Seashore. Backpackers appreciate the secluded and pristine atmosphere. There are miles of hiking trails as well as campgrounds on the island for those who want to stay overnight.

Memphis is a good island to visit for backpackers. There are a couple of hostels and plenty of live music that make this a popular stop off for young travelers.

Is Cumberland Island National Seashore or Memphis Better for Students?

Memphis is a popular place for its student-friendly activities. However, Cumberland Island National Seashore is not popular with students.

It's common for students to visit Memphis. The live music scene and great food options make this is a fun town for students.

Cumberland Island National Seashore is not popular with students.

Is Cumberland Island National Seashore or Memphis Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Cumberland Island National Seashore and Memphis both offer respectable public transit to get you around.

Public transit is mostly limited in Cumberland Island National Seashore. The only way to the island is by ferry. It leaves from the town of St. Marys and advanced reservations are recommended.

Public transit is generally limited in Memphis. There is a trolley and bus system that the city operates, but a car is really helpful for getting around.

Is Cumberland Island National Seashore or Memphis a more walkable city?

Cumberland Island National Seashore and Memphis are notable when it comes to walkability.

Cumberland Island National Seashore is somewhat walkable. There are many hikes on the island, but the whole island is 18 miles long, making it difficult to walk in one day. Many visitors spend their time near the campgrounds where there's the highest concentration of hiking trails. This area is known as Sea Camp.

Memphis is a somewhat walkable place. Most of the touristy parts of town are walkable, but if you want to explore further out you'll need a car.

For even more information, also check out Is Cumberland Island National Seashore Worth Visiting? and Is Memphis Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Memphis or Cumberland Island National Seashore?

How long in Cumberland Island National Seashore or Memphis?

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

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

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

One day in Cumberland Island National Seashore or Memphis?

In Cumberland Island National Seashore, you'll find . You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. This island offers something for everyone. This would be the perfect place to spend one day, as it has just the right amount of activities.

In Memphis, you'll find nightlife and live music. One reason most visitors come is for the live music. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

A weekend in Cumberland Island National Seashore or Memphis?

In Cumberland Island National Seashore, you'll find . The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Cumberland Island National Seashore has to offer.

Many people visit Memphis for a weekend. Plenty of people spend a weekend in the area when traveling. A weekend is usually enough time to experience most activities. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Five days in Cumberland Island National Seashore or Memphis?

Cumberland Island National Seashore is a great place to explore. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

Memphis is a popular place to visit. The soulful city of Memphis offers food and museums. One reason most visitors come is for the live music. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

A week in Cumberland Island National Seashore or Memphis?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Cumberland Island National Seashore. Many people enjoy the when visiting Cumberland Island National Seashore. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Memphis. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. One reason most visitors come is for the live music. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Las Vegas, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Anchorage, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Los Angeles, and The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from New York City.

When comparing the travel costs between Cumberland Island National Seashore and Memphis, we can see that Memphis 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 Cumberland Island National Seashore Expensive? and Is Memphis Expensive?.

When is the best time to visit Cumberland Island National Seashore or Memphis?

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 Cumberland Island National Seashore or Memphis in the Summer?

Both Memphis and Cumberland Island National Seashore are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Cumberland Island National Seashore for the beaches, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Memphis in the summer for the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Cumberland Island National Seashore is generally around the same temperature as Memphis. Daily temperatures in Cumberland Island National Seashore average around 82°F (28°C), and Memphis fluctuates around 83°F (29°C).

It's quite sunny in Memphis. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Cumberland Island National Seashore. Cumberland Island National Seashore usually receives less sunshine than Memphis during summer. Cumberland Island National Seashore gets 286 hours of sunny skies, while Memphis receives 328 hours of full sun in the summer.

It's quite rainy in Cumberland Island National Seashore. In July, Cumberland Island National Seashore usually receives more rain than Memphis. Cumberland Island National Seashore gets 5.4 inches (137 mm) of rain, while Memphis receives 2.9 inches (73 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Cumberland Island National Seashore or Memphis in the Autumn?

Both Memphis and Cumberland Island National Seashore during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Cumberland Island National Seashore in the autumn for the hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area. Also, most visitors come to Memphis for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the music scene during these months.

Cumberland Island National Seashore is a little warmer than Memphis in the autumn. The daily temperature in Cumberland Island National Seashore averages around 70°F (21°C) in October, and Memphis fluctuates around 64°F (18°C).

In Memphis, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Cumberland Island National Seashore. In the autumn, Cumberland Island National Seashore often gets less sunshine than Memphis. Cumberland Island National Seashore gets 214 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Memphis receives 240 hours of full sun.

Cumberland Island National Seashore usually gets more rain in October than Memphis. Cumberland Island National Seashore gets 2.9 inches (73 mm) of rain, while Memphis receives 1.6 inches (41 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Cumberland Island National Seashore or Memphis in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Cumberland Island National Seashore and Memphis. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Memphis because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

The weather in Memphis can be very cold. In the winter, Cumberland Island National Seashore is much warmer than Memphis. Typically, the winter temperatures in Cumberland Island National Seashore in January average around 53°F (12°C), and Memphis averages at about 40°F (5°C).

Cumberland Island National Seashore usually receives more sunshine than Memphis during winter. Cumberland Island National Seashore gets 191 hours of sunny skies, while Memphis receives 163 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Cumberland Island National Seashore usually receives more rain than Memphis. Cumberland Island National Seashore gets 3.3 inches (83 mm) of rain, while Memphis receives 2.4 inches (62 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Cumberland Island National Seashore or Memphis in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Cumberland Island National Seashore as well as Memphis. The spring months attract visitors to Cumberland Island National Seashore because of the beaches and the natural beauty. Also, the activities around the city are the main draw to Memphis this time of year.

In April, Cumberland Island National Seashore is generally a little warmer than Memphis. Daily temperatures in Cumberland Island National Seashore average around 68°F (20°C), and Memphis fluctuates around 64°F (18°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Memphis. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Cumberland Island National Seashore this time of the year. In the spring, Cumberland Island National Seashore often gets more sunshine than Memphis. Cumberland Island National Seashore gets 285 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Memphis receives 254 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Memphis. Cumberland Island National Seashore usually gets less rain in April than Memphis. Cumberland Island National Seashore gets 2.8 inches (72 mm) of rain, while Memphis receives 4.3 inches (109 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Memphis and Cumberland Island National Seashore