A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Duck vs. Chattanooga for Hiking, Families, Couples, and Food

Should you visit Duck or Chattanooga?

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

Should I visit Duck or Chattanooga? 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.

Duck

Duck is a laid-back, traditional, and compact beach town. As this is a charming small town, visitors also come to explore the sights and local activities. With stunning beauty, Duck attracts visitors from all around. Other popular activities here include hiking, shopping, and food. See Duck travel costs.

Chattanooga

Chattanooga is a outdoorsy, thriving, and bustling city. It's also known for hiking, shopping, and museums. See Chattanooga travel costs.

Duck and Chattanooga: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Nice resorts
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Known for its beauty
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Small town charm
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Public transit not as usable
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good public transit


Is there more to do in Duck or Chattanooga?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Duck than Chattanooga, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Duck is better known for its resorts, beaches, shopping, small town charm, and impressive beauty, while Chattanooga is more popular for its museums and attractions, nightlife, and hiking. Duck is more touristy than Chattanooga and is known for its quaint atmosphere and small town charm. Also, Duck is famous for the wide sandy beach. Chattanooga is well known for it's hikes, railways, and nearby natural areas.

How is Duck different from Chattanooga?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Duck
Chattanooga

Chattanooga is a popular place for its sights and museums. However, Duck is not a good beach 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.

If you're looking to pass the time, head to a museum or historic sight in Duck. Hanging out at the beach and enjoy water sports or outdoor activities are the main draw of this town. You won't find much in the form of museums or indoor activities.


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

Duck
Chattanooga

There are opportunities to sample the local cuisine at notable restaurants in both Duck and Chattanooga.

Duck offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. For such a small town, there's a decent selection of restaurants that range from local seafood eateries to pizza delivery. Homemade ice cream is a favorite in the area, but you also can't skip out on the flagship Duck Donuts store.

Chattanooga has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. 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 Duck or Chattanooga Better for Nightlife?

Duck
Chattanooga

Chattanooga is a popular place for nightlife. However, Duck is not a good beach town for nightlife and partying.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Chattanooga. 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.

Those looking for nightlife will find a few places to hang out in Duck. It's known as a family-friendly destination that isn't often associated with a strong nightlife, but there is often live music and other festivals during the summer months.

Is Duck or Chattanooga Better for Resorts?

Duck
Chattanooga

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

Duck has a few great resort options. Most of the accommodation around town is in the form of vacation beach rental houses that are perfect for family gatherings or larger groups.

Chattanooga is not a resort destination.


Is Duck or Chattanooga Better for Beaches?

Duck
Chattanooga

Duck is an unbeatable place for the beach. However, Chattanooga is not a beach destination.

Travelers come from around the world to visit the beaches in Duck. Long sandy beaches with great surf and a wonderful boardwalk make this a great beach destination. Kids play in the tidal pools and families relax under their beach umbrellas in a classic beach setting.

Chattanooga is not a beach destination.

Is Duck or Chattanooga Better for Hiking?

Duck
Chattanooga

Chattanooga is a well-known place for the nearby hiking options. Also, Duck is not as famous, but is still a good beach 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.

Many people include a hike when visiting Duck. The Duck Trail runs for six miles and passes through town. It's popular with walkers, cyclists, and inline skaters.

Is the Shopping Better in Duck or Chattanooga?

Duck
Chattanooga

Duck 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 Duck. Head to the Waterfront Shops for some of the town's best shopping. You can wander along the boardwalk and check out the independent vendors and local restaurants.

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 Duck or Chattanooga More Beautiful?

Duck
Chattanooga

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

With stunning beauty, Duck attracts visitors from all around. Beautiful sandy beaches and family-friendly parks offer a beautiful and relaxed beach vacation.

Chattanooga is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Duck or Chattanooga Better for Families?

Duck
Chattanooga

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

Duck is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. Kid-friendly beaches, local ice cream joints, and the famed Duck Donuts all make this an ideal kid's beach destination. There's a waterpark nearby and plenty of water sports that the whole family can enjoy. The boardwalk is also a very family-friendly environment.

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 Duck or Chattanooga Better for Couples?

Duck
Chattanooga

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

Couples visit Duck frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. It's a charming beach town with great local restaurants and a beautiful and peaceful setting. For couples who want to enjoy a relaxing beach town without the energy of a larger destination, then this is the perfect place. Much of the accommodation is in the form of rental houses, which can be a bit much for a couple, but the setting is perfect for a weekend escape.

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

Duck
Chattanooga

Chattanooga is a well-known place for its public transit. However, Duck is not a good beach town 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.

Public transit is mostly limited in Duck. It's best to have a car if you want to exploring the Outer Banks and its many activities.

Is Duck or Chattanooga a more walkable city?

Duck
Chattanooga

Duck is an unbeatable place for its ease of walking around. Also, Chattanooga is still popular, but not quite as popular for its walkability.

Getting around Duck on foot is easy. It's a wonderfully walkable and pedestrian-friendly town with a great boardwalk and many walking and cycling paths.

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.

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

Should I spend more time in Chattanooga or Duck?

How long in Duck or Chattanooga?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Duck and Chattanooga. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Duck than in Chattanooga. Usually, 5-7 days is a good amount of time for Duck, and 2-3 days is enough time in Chattanooga.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Chattanooga than Duck 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 Duck or Chattanooga? Ideal Length of Stay
    Duck 5-7 
    Chattanooga 2-3

One day in Duck or Chattanooga?

Duck is a small town with plenty to do. It's also a great beach destination, too. Most people visit for the beaches. 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.

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.


A weekend in Duck or Chattanooga?

Duck might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. This beach town offers something for everyone. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

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.

Five days in Duck or Chattanooga?

Even though Duck is a small town, it has plenty of activities to choose from. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. 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.

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.

A week in Duck or Chattanooga?

Duck is a small town where visitors enjoy the shopping and food. Anyone can find something fun to do here. This is a popular place to visit for one week. Most people come for the beaches. Most people visit for the beaches. In one week, you should have a good grasp of this beach town.

The bustling 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.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Train & Rail Tours in United States of America, The Best Sightseeing Tours in United States of America, The Best Cruise Tours and Packages in United States of America, and The Best Cultural Tours in United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Chattanooga or Duck?

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

  • Duck Prices
    USA Prices
    Chattanooga Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Duck $221
    Chattanooga $225

The average daily cost (per person) in Duck is $221, while the average daily cost in Chattanooga is $225. 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 Duck and Chattanooga in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Duck $107
    Chattanooga $92
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Duck $214
    Chattanooga $184
Compare Hotels in Duck and Chattanooga

Looking for a hotel in Duck or Chattanooga? 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 Duck


Hotels in Chattanooga


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.
    Duck $66
    Chattanooga $35

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 Duck or Chattanooga?

Prices for flights to both Chattanooga and Duck 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
    Duck $78
    Chattanooga $103

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.
    Duck $13
    Chattanooga $52

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
  • Original Local Award-Winning Walking Ghost Tour: $25
  • Murder & Mayhem Haunted History Walking Tour: $25
  • A Spooky and Family-Friendly Walking Tour: $30
  • Family Friendly Ghost Tour in Chattanooga: $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
    Duck $45
    Chattanooga $24

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 Duck and Chattanooga, 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 Duck Expensive? and Is Chattanooga Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Duck or Chattanooga?

Chattanooga has a larger population, and is about 280 times larger than the population of Duck. When comparing the sizes of Duck and Chattanooga, 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 Duck or Chattanooga?

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 Duck or Chattanooga in the Summer?

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

In July, Duck is generally around the same temperature as Chattanooga. Daily temperatures in Duck average around 78°F (26°C), and Chattanooga fluctuates around 81°F (27°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Chattanooga this time of the year. In Duck, it's very sunny this time of the year. Duck usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Chattanooga during summer. Duck gets 279 hours of sunny skies, while Chattanooga receives 265 hours of full sun in the summer.

Chattanooga receives a lot of rain in the summer. Duck gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In July, Duck usually receives around the same amount of rain as Chattanooga. Duck gets 5.4 inches (137 mm) of rain, while Chattanooga receives 5.2 inches (131 mm) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Duck 78°F (26°C) 
    Chattanooga 81°F (27°C)

Should I visit Duck or Chattanooga in the Autumn?

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

Duck is around the same temperature as Chattanooga in the autumn. The daily temperature in Duck averages around 62°F (16°C) in October, and Chattanooga fluctuates around 63°F (17°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Chattanooga. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Duck this time of the year. In the autumn, Duck often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Chattanooga. Duck gets 211 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Chattanooga receives 211 hours of full sun.

Duck usually gets more rain in October than Chattanooga. Duck gets 3.2 inches (82 mm) of rain, while Chattanooga receives 3 inches (75 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Duck 62°F (16°C) 
    Chattanooga 63°F (17°C)

Should I visit Duck or Chattanooga in the Winter?

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

Chattanooga can get quite cold in the winter. Be prepared for some very cold days in Duck. In the winter, Duck is around the same temperature as Chattanooga. Typically, the winter temperatures in Duck in January average around 41°F (5°C), and Chattanooga averages at about 40°F (5°C).

Duck usually receives more sunshine than Chattanooga during winter. Duck gets 168 hours of sunny skies, while Chattanooga receives 145 hours of full sun in the winter.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Chattanooga. It's quite rainy in Duck. In January, Duck usually receives less rain than Chattanooga. Duck gets 4.1 inches (105 mm) of rain, while Chattanooga receives 5.4 inches (137 mm) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Duck 41°F (5°C) 
    Chattanooga 40°F (5°C)

Should I visit Duck or Chattanooga in the Spring?

Both Chattanooga and Duck during the spring are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Duck in the spring for the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty.

In April, Duck is generally cooler than Chattanooga. Daily temperatures in Duck average around 59°F (15°C), and Chattanooga fluctuates around 62°F (17°C).

In Chattanooga, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Duck. In the spring, Duck often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Chattanooga. Duck gets 253 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Chattanooga receives 243 hours of full sun.

Chattanooga gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Duck usually gets less rain in April than Chattanooga. Duck gets 3 inches (75 mm) of rain, while Chattanooga receives 4.4 inches (112 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Duck 59°F (15°C) 
    Chattanooga 62°F (17°C)

Typical Weather for Chattanooga and Duck

Duck Chattanooga
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 41°F (5°C) 4.1 inches (105 mm) 40°F (5°C) 5.4 inches (137 mm)
Feb 42°F (6°C) 3.6 inches (92 mm) 44°F (7°C) 5.2 inches (132 mm)
Mar 50°F (10°C) 3.9 inches (98 mm) 53°F (12°C) 5.6 inches (143 mm)
Apr 59°F (15°C) 3 inches (75 mm) 62°F (17°C) 4.4 inches (112 mm)
May 67°F (19°C) 4.6 inches (117 mm) 70°F (21°C) 3.4 inches (87 mm)
Jun 74°F (23°C) 4.1 inches (105 mm) 78°F (25°C) 3.7 inches (93 mm)
Jul 78°F (26°C) 5.4 inches (137 mm) 81°F (27°C) 5.2 inches (131 mm)
Aug 78°F (25°C) 5 inches (127 mm) 80°F (27°C) 3.2 inches (82 mm)
Sep 72°F (22°C) 4.7 inches (119 mm) 74°F (24°C) 3.7 inches (94 mm)
Oct 62°F (16°C) 3.2 inches (82 mm) 63°F (17°C) 3 inches (75 mm)
Nov 53°F (12°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm) 53°F (12°C) 3.9 inches (100 mm)
Dec 45°F (7°C) 3.4 inches (85 mm) 44°F (7°C) 5.2 inches (133 mm)