A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Gatlinburg vs. The Hamptons for Nightlife, Resorts, Hiking, and Couples

Should you visit Gatlinburg or The Hamptons?

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 Gatlinburg and The Hamptons can help you decide which place is right for you.

Gatlinburg

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

The Hamptons

The Hamptons is a wealthy, opulent, and lavish beach destination. The Hamptons is a gorgeous place to visit. Other reasons to visit include hiking, shopping, and nightlife. See The Hamptons travel costs.

Gatlinburg and The Hamptons: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular for skiing
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good for hiking
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good public transit
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for shopping
Pros
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Fun shopping
  • Known for its beauty
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Public transit not as usable


Is there more to do in Gatlinburg or The Hamptons?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Gatlinburg. Although Gatlinburg and The Hamptons are both popular with visitors, Gatlinburg has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Gatlinburg is more popular for its skiing, museums and attractions, nightlife, and hiking, while The Hamptons is known for its food, beaches, shopping, and impressive beauty. Gatlinburg is more touristy than The Hamptons and is popular for its countless entertainment venues as well as its easy access to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. It is also home to the Gatlinburg Strip. The Hamptons is popular for its long sandy beaches, charming seaside communities, opulent villas, and vacationing celebrities.

How is Gatlinburg different from The Hamptons?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Gatlinburg or The Hamptons Better for Skiing?

Gatlinburg
The Hamptons

Gatlinburg is a city with good options for winter skiing. However, The Hamptons 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.

The Hamptons is not a skiing destination.


Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Gatlinburg or The Hamptons?

Gatlinburg
The Hamptons

Gatlinburg is a city with good options for its museums and landmarks. However, The Hamptons does not have museums and landmarks.

Gatlinburg is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. 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.

The Hamptons does not have museums and landmarks.

Is the Food Better in Gatlinburg or The Hamptons? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Gatlinburg
The Hamptons

The Hamptons is very good for its local flavors and cuisine. However, Gatlinburg is not a good destination for its local cuisine and restaurants.

There are plenty of up and coming restaurants around The Hamptons. There are a number of fine dining restaurants in the area and seafood is a favorite. Some restaurants are known to be frequented by vacationing celebrities, so if you're hoping to spot someone famous, do some research and you may have some luck.

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 Gatlinburg or The Hamptons Better for Nightlife?

Gatlinburg
The Hamptons

Gatlinburg is a world-class destination for nightlife. Also, The Hamptons is still popular, but not quite as popular 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.

If you're looking for night time activities The Hamptons has a few options to choose from. There are plenty of nightclubs and bars throughout the area. Head to East Hampton for some of the best options.


Is Gatlinburg or The Hamptons Better for Resorts?

Gatlinburg
The Hamptons

Luxury resorts are fairly comparable in Gatlinburg and The Hamptons.

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.

The Hamptons is a popular resort destination that attracts visitors from everywhere. Known as a hangout for the rich and famous, there is no shortage of luxury hotels and resorts in the area.

Is Gatlinburg or The Hamptons Better for Beaches?

Gatlinburg
The Hamptons

The Hamptons is very good for its beaches. However, Gatlinburg is not a beach destination.

Many people head to The Hamptons to enjoy the beach. The beaches in the area feature long stretches of soft sand and plenty of space to spread out. Many beaches do come with a hefty price tag though as they require you to pay for parking or a permit.

Gatlinburg is not a beach destination.

Is Gatlinburg or The Hamptons Better for Hiking?

Gatlinburg
The Hamptons

Gatlinburg is a great destination for its hiking experiences. Also, The Hamptons is still popular, but not quite as popular for hiking.

You'll find a nice variety of hiking trails around Gatlinburg. 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.

The Hamptons offers some nice hiking trails. There are a number of picturesque walks through the dunes and wetlands around the area. There is plenty of peaceful nature to explore if you're looking for a break from city life.


Is the Shopping Better in Gatlinburg or The Hamptons?

Gatlinburg
The Hamptons

The Hamptons is renowned for shopping. Also, Gatlinburg is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its shopping opportunities.

People travel from around the world to go shopping in The Hamptons. Known as a playground for the rich and famous, you can be assured there are plenty of shopping opportunities where you can flash your cash around town.

Gatlinburg offers some nice shopping areas. 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 Gatlinburg or The Hamptons More Beautiful?

Gatlinburg
The Hamptons

The Hamptons is very good for its scenery and beauty. However, Gatlinburg is not a destination known for its beauty.

The Hamptons is a gorgeous place to visit. For a beautiful, upscale setting, this is a great destination near NYC.

Gatlinburg is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Gatlinburg or The Hamptons Better for Families?

Gatlinburg
The Hamptons

The Hamptons is very good for its kid-friendly activities. However, Gatlinburg is not a family-friendly destination.

The Hamptons offers lots of family activities. The area has a family-friendly setting with many outdoor activities and a children's museum. There are music events, children's parks, small zoos, and, of course, the beach. Also make sure you pick up some ice cream and enjoy that quintessential beach experience.

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 Gatlinburg or The Hamptons Better for Couples?

Gatlinburg
The Hamptons

Both Gatlinburg and The Hamptons are superb destinations to visit as a couple.

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.

The Hamptons is a very popular place to visit for couples. Couples who enjoy beaches, dining out, and escaping the chaos of city life will enjoy a retreat here. The area has many beautiful parks and outdoor spaces, but there are also amazing restaurants that make for a great date night.

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

Gatlinburg
The Hamptons

Gatlinburg is a city with good options for its public transit. However, The Hamptons is a beach destination with minimal options for times when you don't have a car.

You'll find some public transit in Gatlinburg, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There's a free trolley service that offers a convenient way to get around town.

Public transit is quite limited in The Hamptons. While there are trains between towns, there aren't many options when it comes to public transit.

Is Gatlinburg or The Hamptons a more walkable city?

Gatlinburg
The Hamptons

Gatlinburg is a great destination for its walkability. Also, The Hamptons is still popular, but not quite as popular 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.

The Hamptons is a somewhat walkable place. While some of the towns offer a nice place for a stroll, most of the Hamptons is not very walkable and it's best to have a car.


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

Should I spend more time in The Hamptons or Gatlinburg?

How long in Gatlinburg or The Hamptons?

Both Gatlinburg and The Hamptons have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in The Hamptons than in Gatlinburg. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Gatlinburg, and 3-7 days is enough time in The Hamptons.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Gatlinburg than The Hamptons 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 Gatlinburg or The Hamptons? Ideal Length of Stay
    Gatlinburg 2-4 
    The Hamptons 3-7

One day in Gatlinburg or The Hamptons?

In Gatlinburg, many people enjoy the nightlife and shopping that this wild city offers. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

With shopping and nightlife around the opulent beach destination of The Hamptons, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. One of the main draws to the area is the shopping. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Gatlinburg or The Hamptons?

Gatlinburg is a fun place to experience. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. Lots of people come for the nightlife. So, a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

With nightlife and food around the destination of The Hamptons, 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 shopping. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything.

Five days in Gatlinburg or The Hamptons?

You'll find museums and skiing around the high energy destination of Gatlinburg. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Lots of people come for the nightlife. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days.

The Hamptons, a popular beach destination, is full of activities for travelers. This is a popular place to visit for five days. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. In five days, you should have a good grasp of this beach destination. Your budget might influence how long you stay.


A week in Gatlinburg or The Hamptons?

Gatlinburg is a popular place to visit. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

The Hamptons is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have one week, this beach destination makes for a great vacation. One of the main draws to the area is the shopping. One week should give you a good understanding of everything this beach destination has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 2-Week Tours from San Francisco, The Best 2-Week Tours from Los Angeles, The Best Family-Friendly Tours to United States of America, and The Best Wildlife Tours to United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, The Hamptons or Gatlinburg?

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

  • Gatlinburg Prices
    USA Prices
    The Hamptons Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Gatlinburg $253
    The Hamptons $267

The average daily cost (per person) in Gatlinburg is $253, while the average daily cost in The Hamptons is $267. 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 Gatlinburg and The Hamptons in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Gatlinburg $80
    The Hamptons $126
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Gatlinburg $160
    The Hamptons $252
Compare Hotels in Gatlinburg and The Hamptons

Looking for a hotel in Gatlinburg or The Hamptons? 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 Gatlinburg


Hotels in The Hamptons


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.
    Gatlinburg $35
    The Hamptons $63

Is it cheaper to fly into Gatlinburg or The Hamptons?

Prices for flights to both The Hamptons and Gatlinburg 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
    Gatlinburg $148
    The Hamptons $104
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.
    Gatlinburg $24
    The Hamptons $22
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.

  • Great Smoky Mountains NP Driving Tour smartphone autoplay APP/GPS: $9.75
  • Clingmans Dome Self Guided Walking Audio Tour: $9.99
  • Cades Cove Sightseeing Self-Guided Driving Audio Tour: $15
  • Museum of the Cherokee People Admission Ticket: $15
  • Gatlinburg Scavenger Hunt and Sights Self Guided Tour: $15
  • Great Smoky Mountains National Park Self-Guided Audio Tour: $16
  • Great Smoky Mountains National Park Self-Guided Driving Tour: $17
  • Rocky Top Mountain Coaster Admission Ticket in Pigeon Forge: $18
  • Self-Guided Audio Driving Tour in Great Smoky Mountains: $20
  • Scavenger Hunt Adventure in Pigeon Forge by Zombie Scavengers: $20
  • Gatlinburg Ghosts of The Smokies Most Haunted Tour: $25
  • Great Smoky Mountains & Cades Cove Self-Guided Driving Tours: $25

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Gatlinburg $15
    The Hamptons $31

Sample the Local Flavors in Gatlinburg

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Gatlinburg:

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


When comparing the travel costs between Gatlinburg and The Hamptons, we can see that The Hamptons 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 Gatlinburg Expensive? and Is The Hamptons Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Gatlinburg or The Hamptons?

Gatlinburg has a larger population, and is about 1% larger than the population of The Hamptons. When comparing the sizes of Gatlinburg and The Hamptons, 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 Gatlinburg or The Hamptons?

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 Gatlinburg or The Hamptons in the Summer?

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

Gatlinburg is a little warmer than The Hamptons in the summer. The daily temperature in Gatlinburg averages around 81°F (27°C) in July, and The Hamptons fluctuates around 76°F (25°C).

It's quite rainy in The Hamptons. Gatlinburg receives a lot of rain in the summer. Gatlinburg usually gets more rain in July than The Hamptons. Gatlinburg gets 4.7 inches (119 mm) of rain, while The Hamptons receives 4.1 inches (104 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Gatlinburg 81°F (27°C) 
    The Hamptons 76°F (25°C)

Should I visit Gatlinburg or The Hamptons in the Autumn?

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

In the autumn, Gatlinburg is a little warmer than The Hamptons. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Gatlinburg in October average around 63°F (17°C), and The Hamptons averages at about 58°F (14°C).

In October, Gatlinburg usually receives less rain than The Hamptons. Gatlinburg gets 2.7 inches (68 mm) of rain, while The Hamptons receives 3 inches (77 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Gatlinburg 63°F (17°C) 
    The Hamptons 58°F (14°C)

Should I visit Gatlinburg or The Hamptons in the Winter?

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

The weather in The Hamptons can be very cold. Gatlinburg can be very cold during winter. In January, Gatlinburg is generally much warmer than The Hamptons. Daily temperatures in Gatlinburg average around 40°F (5°C), and The Hamptons fluctuates around 31°F (-0°C).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Gatlinburg. Gatlinburg usually gets more rain in January than The Hamptons. Gatlinburg gets 4.7 inches (119 mm) of rain, while The Hamptons receives 3.2 inches (81 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Gatlinburg 40°F (5°C) 
    The Hamptons 31°F (-0°C)

Should I visit Gatlinburg or The Hamptons in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Gatlinburg and The Hamptons. Furthermore, the beaches and the natural beauty are the main draw to The Hamptons this time of year.

Gatlinburg is much warmer than The Hamptons in the spring. The daily temperature in Gatlinburg averages around 62°F (17°C) in April, and The Hamptons fluctuates around 51°F (11°C).

In April, Gatlinburg usually receives around the same amount of rain as The Hamptons. Gatlinburg gets 3.6 inches (92 mm) of rain, while The Hamptons receives 3.8 inches (96 mm) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Gatlinburg 62°F (17°C) 
    The Hamptons 51°F (11°C)

Typical Weather for The Hamptons and Gatlinburg

Gatlinburg The Hamptons
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 40°F (5°C) 4.7 inches (119 mm) 31°F (-0°C) 3.2 inches (81 mm)
Feb 44°F (7°C) 4.7 inches (120 mm) 33°F (1°C) 2.8 inches (72 mm)
Mar 54°F (12°C) 4.8 inches (123 mm) 41°F (5°C) 3.6 inches (91 mm)
Apr 62°F (17°C) 3.6 inches (92 mm) 51°F (11°C) 3.8 inches (96 mm)
May 70°F (21°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm) 62°F (17°C) 3.8 inches (96 mm)
Jun 78°F (25°C) 3.6 inches (92 mm) 71°F (22°C) 3.6 inches (91 mm)
Jul 81°F (27°C) 4.7 inches (119 mm) 76°F (25°C) 4.1 inches (104 mm)
Aug 80°F (27°C) 3.2 inches (82 mm) 75°F (24°C) 3.7 inches (95 mm)
Sep 74°F (24°C) 2.8 inches (71 mm) 68°F (20°C) 3.4 inches (86 mm)
Oct 63°F (17°C) 2.7 inches (68 mm) 58°F (14°C) 3 inches (77 mm)
Nov 53°F (12°C) 3.5 inches (90 mm) 47°F (9°C) 3.8 inches (96 mm)
Dec 44°F (7°C) 4.5 inches (114 mm) 37°F (3°C) 3.4 inches (86 mm)