A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Everglades National Park vs. Gatlinburg for Hiking, Couples, Backpackers, and Attractions

Should you visit Everglades National Park or Gatlinburg?

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

Which city is more affordable and which is best for your travel style? If you're trying to figure out where to go next, comparing the travel costs between Everglades National Park and Gatlinburg can help you decide which place is right for you.

Everglades National Park

Everglades National Park is a adventure-filled, unique, and natural national park. Everglades National Park is a gorgeous place to visit. Other reasons to visit include hiking. See Everglades National Park travel costs.

Gatlinburg

Gatlinburg is a wild, flashy, and high energy city. It's also popular because of the shopping, museums, and skiing. See Gatlinburg travel costs.

Everglades National Park and Gatlinburg: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Good for hiking
  • Known for its beauty
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less popular for shopping
  • Public transit not as usable
  • Less walkable
Pros
  • Popular for skiing
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Nice resorts
  • Good for hiking
  • Fun shopping
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good public transit
  • Very walkable
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with backpackers


Is there more to do in Everglades National Park or Gatlinburg?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Gatlinburg than Everglades National Park, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Gatlinburg is better known for its skiing, museums and attractions, nightlife, resorts, and shopping, while Everglades National Park is more popular for its impressive beauty. Gatlinburg is more touristy than Everglades National Park and is known for its countless entertainment venues as well as its easy access to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Also, Gatlinburg is famous for the Gatlinburg Strip. Everglades National Park is well known for its unique habitats and wildlife such as the friendly manatees.

How is Everglades National Park different from Gatlinburg?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Everglades National Park or Gatlinburg Better for Skiing?

Everglades National Park
Gatlinburg

Gatlinburg is very good for skiing. However, Everglades National Park is not a skiing destination.

Head to Gatlinburg for some great skiing and other winter activities. Ober Gatlinburg is the only ski area in Tennessee. The winter activities open after Thanksgiving and include snow skiing, snowboarding, ice skating, and tubing.

Everglades National Park is not a skiing destination.


Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Everglades National Park or Gatlinburg?

Everglades National Park
Gatlinburg

Gatlinburg is very good for its historical sights. However, Everglades National Park is not known for its sights and museums.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Gatlinburg. 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.

Everglades National Park offers a handful of options for museums and historical sights. It's worth checking out the Museum of the Everglades, but most visitors prefer to spend their time outdoors exploring the habitats.

Is the Food Better in Everglades National Park or Gatlinburg? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Everglades National Park
Gatlinburg

Dining out at restaurants in both Everglades National Park and Gatlinburg can be an enjoyable experience.

Everglades National Park may not make the list for most foodies, but you'll find what you need while you're in town. There are a few casual eateries near the park. The options include taquerias and grills. You'll also find some farm fresh fruit stands on the side of the road and it's definitely worth stopping to pick up a snack.

Gatlinburg offers some easy restaurants to choose from. Staying true to form, restaurants in Gatlinburg cater to the tourist scene and serve up burgers, pizza, pancakes, and other classic favorites.

Is Everglades National Park or Gatlinburg Better for Nightlife?

Everglades National Park
Gatlinburg

Gatlinburg is an unbeatable place for its evening party scene. However, Everglades National Park is not known for nightlife.

The nightlife in Gatlinburg is well established with world renowned clubs and venues. 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.

People don't go to Everglades National Park for the nightlife. There are a couple of grills outside of the park, but the nightlife scene is very limited.


Is Everglades National Park or Gatlinburg Better for Resorts?

Everglades National Park
Gatlinburg

Gatlinburg is a great city for its luxury resorts. However, Everglades National Park is not a resort destination.

Vacationers can choose from a number of terrific resorts in Gatlinburg. There are plenty of resorts and vacation clubs near town. Many have pools, waterslides, or hot tubs.

Everglades National Park is not a resort destination.

Is Everglades National Park or Gatlinburg Better for Hiking?

Everglades National Park
Gatlinburg

You'll find very good hiking in both Everglades National Park and Gatlinburg.

Many visitors go to Everglades National Park for the hiking trails. The trails take you through a variety of habitats and range in length from short nature walks to longer, in depth hikes. Do be aware that the insects can be brutal. Mosquitos and biting flies are both common.

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.

Is the Shopping Better in Everglades National Park or Gatlinburg?

Everglades National Park
Gatlinburg

Gatlinburg is very good for its shopping areas. However, Everglades National Park is not known for shopping.

Gatlinburg has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. 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.

Everglades National Park has some shopping areas for those that seek them out. There's a park store, but otherwise the shopping is very limited.


Is Everglades National Park or Gatlinburg More Beautiful?

Everglades National Park
Gatlinburg

Everglades National Park is very good for its scenery and beauty. However, Gatlinburg is not a destination known for its beauty.

Everglades National Park is a gorgeous place to visit. The natural beauty is impressive and it's easy to see why this is a highlight for many visitors to southern Florida.

Gatlinburg is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Everglades National Park or Gatlinburg Better for Families?

Everglades National Park
Gatlinburg

Everglades National Park is very good for its kid-friendly activities. However, Gatlinburg is not a family-friendly destination.

Everglades National Park offers lots of family activities. An airboat ride is a highlight for many kids. There's also hiking, kayaking, and even Junior Ranger programs. Do be on the lookout for mosquitoes, which can be relentless in the park.

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 Everglades National Park or Gatlinburg Better for Couples?

Everglades National Park
Gatlinburg

Gatlinburg is a great city for couples. Also, Everglades National Park is not as popular, but is still a nice national park for romance.

Gatlinburg is a great city if you're traveling as 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.

Everglades National Park is a nice destination for couples. Hiking and enjoying a bit of nature makes for a nice romantic getaway. Go kayaking or take an airboat ride and then enjoy some time exploring the natural setting.


Is Everglades National Park or Gatlinburg Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Everglades National Park
Gatlinburg

Everglades National Park is great for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Gatlinburg is not a good destination for backpackers.

Everglades National Park is very popular with the backpacker crowd. There are two drive-in campgrounds (Long Pine Key Campground and Flamingo Campground) that you can reach from the Homestead entrance to the park.

Gatlinburg is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. It's a touristy town with plenty of cheap motels in the area. There are also campgrounds and hiking not far away.

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

Everglades National Park
Gatlinburg

Gatlinburg is very good for times when you don't have a car. However, Everglades National Park is not known for its public transit.

While Gatlinburg offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There's a free trolley service that offers a convenient way to get around town.

Public transit is limited or non-existant in Everglades National Park. There is no real public transportation to the park so an organized tour is your best option if you don't have a vehicle.

Is Everglades National Park or Gatlinburg a more walkable city?

Everglades National Park
Gatlinburg

Gatlinburg is a great city for its ease of walking around. However, Everglades National Park is not known for its walkability.

Gatlinburg is a very walkable destination. 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.

Everglades National Park is generally not very walkable. While there are hiking trails, to really explore the park you'll want to have a car or take an organized tour.


For even more information, also check out Is Everglades National Park Worth Visiting? and Is Gatlinburg Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Gatlinburg or Everglades National Park?

How long in Everglades National Park or Gatlinburg?

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

Couples should spend more time in Gatlinburg than Everglades National Park. 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 Everglades National Park 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.


  • How many days in Everglades National Park or Gatlinburg? Ideal Length of Stay
    Everglades National Park 2-3 
    Gatlinburg 2-4

One day in Everglades National Park or Gatlinburg?

With around the unique national park of Everglades National Park, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. 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.

With nightlife and shopping around the flashy city of Gatlinburg, there's plenty to do. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

A weekend in Everglades National Park or Gatlinburg?

With around the destination of Everglades National Park, there's plenty to do. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. It offers something for everyone. Many people spend a weekend here. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this national park.

With shopping and museums around the flashy destination of Gatlinburg, there's plenty to do. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. If you have a weekend, this city makes for a great vacation.A weekend is usually enough time to experience most activities. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Five days in Everglades National Park or Gatlinburg?

Everglades National Park, a popular national park, 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.

You'll find museums and skiing around the wild city of Gatlinburg. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. One of the main draws to the area is the nightlife. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.


A week in Everglades National Park or Gatlinburg?

Everglades National Park is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. 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 great place to explore. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. 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. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Luxury Tours to United States of America, The Best Tours for Seniors to United States of America, The Best Contiki Tours to United States of America, and The Best G Adventures Tours to United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Gatlinburg or Everglades National Park?

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

  • Everglades National Park Prices
    USA Prices
    Gatlinburg Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Everglades National Park $169
    Gatlinburg $253

The average daily cost (per person) in Everglades National Park is $169, while the average daily cost in Gatlinburg is $253. 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 Everglades National Park and Gatlinburg in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Everglades National Park $80
    Gatlinburg $80
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Everglades National Park $160
    Gatlinburg $160
Compare Hotels in Everglades National Park and Gatlinburg

Looking for a hotel in Everglades National Park or Gatlinburg? 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 Everglades National Park


Hotels in Gatlinburg


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: Gatlinburg Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Everglades National Park $56
    Gatlinburg $35

Is it cheaper to fly into Everglades National Park or Gatlinburg?

Prices for flights to both Gatlinburg and Everglades National Park 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
    Everglades National Park $54
    Gatlinburg $148

Typical Food Prices in Gatlinburg

Here are some examples of typical meal expenses from previous travelers to Gatlinburg:


  • Chinese Food Dinner (for 2)
    $21

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Gatlinburg

For Gatlinburg, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Taste the Smokies Appalachian Inspired Cooking Classes: $115

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Everglades National Park $28
    Gatlinburg $24

Tours and Activities in Everglades National Park

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Everglades National Park.

  • Flamingo Everglades Boat Tours: $52

Typical Entertainment Prices in Gatlinburg

For Gatlinburg, here are some examples of average entertainment and activity prices from previous travelers:


  • Horseback Riding Photos
    $22
  • Horseback Riding (for 2)
    $55

Tours and Activities in Gatlinburg

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Gatlinburg.

  • 2 hour Extended Ghost and Haunt Tour of Gatlinburg: $40
  • 3-Hour Nantahala River Fully Guided Rafting Experience: $65
  • 6-Line Zip at Night Tour: $72
  • 7-Line Zipline Experience in Sevierville: $119
  • Admission Ticket: Brian Hoffman's Remembering Red - A Tribute to Red Skelton: $38
  • Admission Ticket: Patty Waszak Show in Pigeon Forge: $38
  • Best of the Smokies Private Half-Day Tour with Picnic Lunch: $225
  • Cades Cove Jeep Tour: $242
  • Cades Cove Sightseeing Self-Guided Driving Audio Tour: $15
  • Clingmans Dome Self Guided Walking Audio Tour: $9.99
  • Digital Ocean Adventure in Sevierville: $26
  • Dolly's Backroads, Bush Beans & Dandridge, Foliage Photo Tour: $105

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Everglades National Park $7.86
    Gatlinburg $15

Sample the Local Flavors in Gatlinburg

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Gatlinburg:

  • Famous Moonshine & Wine Tour From Pigeon Forge: $85


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

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



When is the best time to visit Everglades National Park or Gatlinburg?

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 Everglades National Park or Gatlinburg in the Summer?

Both Gatlinburg and Everglades National Park are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The summer months attract visitors to Everglades National Park because of the hiking and the family-friendly experiences. Also, the hiking are the main draw to Gatlinburg this time of year.

In the summer, Everglades National Park is around the same temperature as Gatlinburg. Typically, the summer temperatures in Everglades National Park in July average around 82°F (28°C), and Gatlinburg averages at about 81°F (27°C).

It's quite sunny in Gatlinburg. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Everglades National Park. Everglades National Park usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Gatlinburg during summer. Everglades National Park gets 316 hours of sunny skies, while Gatlinburg receives 294 hours of full sun in the summer.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Gatlinburg. It's quite rainy in Everglades National Park. In July, Everglades National Park usually receives more rain than Gatlinburg. Everglades National Park gets 5.9 inches (149 mm) of rain, while Gatlinburg receives 4.7 inches (119 mm) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Everglades National Park 82°F (28°C) 
    Gatlinburg 81°F (27°C)

Should I visit Everglades National Park or Gatlinburg in the Autumn?

Both Gatlinburg and Everglades National Park during the autumn are popular places to visit. The hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Everglades National Park this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Gatlinburg for the hiking trails and the shopping scene.

In October, Everglades National Park is generally much warmer than Gatlinburg. Daily temperatures in Everglades National Park average around 78°F (26°C), and Gatlinburg fluctuates around 63°F (17°C).

In Gatlinburg, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Everglades National Park. In the autumn, Everglades National Park often gets more sunshine than Gatlinburg. Everglades National Park gets 275 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Gatlinburg receives 213 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Everglades National Park. Everglades National Park usually gets more rain in October than Gatlinburg. Everglades National Park gets 5.6 inches (143 mm) of rain, while Gatlinburg receives 2.7 inches (68 mm) of rain this time of the year. Also, June to November in Everglades National Park is the hurricane season.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Everglades National Park 78°F (26°C) 
    Gatlinburg 63°F (17°C)

Should I visit Everglades National Park or Gatlinburg in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Everglades National Park and Gatlinburg. Many travelers come to Everglades National Park for the museums and the cuisine. Furthermore, many visitors come to Gatlinburg in the winter for the skiing, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Gatlinburg can get quite cold in the winter. Everglades National Park is much warmer than Gatlinburg in the winter. The daily temperature in Everglades National Park averages around 67°F (19°C) in January, and Gatlinburg fluctuates around 40°F (5°C).

In Everglades National Park, it's very sunny this time of the year. Everglades National Park usually receives more sunshine than Gatlinburg during winter. Everglades National Park gets 243 hours of sunny skies, while Gatlinburg receives 134 hours of full sun in the winter.

Gatlinburg receives a lot of rain in the winter. In January, Everglades National Park usually receives less rain than Gatlinburg. Everglades National Park gets 2.2 inches (55 mm) of rain, while Gatlinburg receives 4.7 inches (119 mm) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Everglades National Park 67°F (19°C) 
    Gatlinburg 40°F (5°C)

Should I visit Everglades National Park or Gatlinburg in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Everglades National Park as well as Gatlinburg. Many visitors come to Everglades National Park in the spring for the natural beauty.

In the spring, Everglades National Park is a little warmer than Gatlinburg. Typically, the spring temperatures in Everglades National Park in April average around 74°F (24°C), and Gatlinburg averages at about 62°F (17°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Gatlinburg. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Everglades National Park this time of the year. In the spring, Everglades National Park often gets more sunshine than Gatlinburg. Everglades National Park gets 300 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Gatlinburg receives 263 hours of full sun.

Everglades National Park usually gets less rain in April than Gatlinburg. Everglades National Park gets 3.1 inches (78 mm) of rain, while Gatlinburg receives 3.6 inches (92 mm) of rain this time of the year. Also, the hurricane season in Everglades National Park is June to November.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Everglades National Park 74°F (24°C) 
    Gatlinburg 62°F (17°C)

Typical Weather for Gatlinburg and Everglades National Park

Everglades National Park Gatlinburg
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 67°F (19°C) 2.2 inches (55 mm) 40°F (5°C) 4.7 inches (119 mm)
Feb 68°F (20°C) 2.1 inches (53 mm) 44°F (7°C) 4.7 inches (120 mm)
Mar 71°F (22°C) 2.4 inches (61 mm) 54°F (12°C) 4.8 inches (123 mm)
Apr 74°F (24°C) 3.1 inches (78 mm) 62°F (17°C) 3.6 inches (92 mm)
May 78°F (26°C) 6.4 inches (162 mm) 70°F (21°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm)
Jun 81°F (27°C) 9.4 inches (238 mm) 78°F (25°C) 3.6 inches (92 mm)
Jul 82°F (28°C) 5.9 inches (149 mm) 81°F (27°C) 4.7 inches (119 mm)
Aug 83°F (28°C) 7.5 inches (191 mm) 80°F (27°C) 3.2 inches (82 mm)
Sep 82°F (28°C) 7.6 inches (194 mm) 74°F (24°C) 2.8 inches (71 mm)
Oct 78°F (26°C) 5.6 inches (143 mm) 63°F (17°C) 2.7 inches (68 mm)
Nov 73°F (23°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm) 53°F (12°C) 3.5 inches (90 mm)
Dec 69°F (21°C) 1.9 inches (48 mm) 44°F (7°C) 4.5 inches (114 mm)