A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Gatlinburg vs. Vernon for Nightlife, Hiking, Couples, and Attractions

Should you visit Gatlinburg or Vernon?

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 Vernon can help you decide which place is right for you.

Gatlinburg

Gatlinburg is a wild, flashy, and high energy city. Other popular activities here include museums, skiing, and nightlife. See Gatlinburg travel costs.

Vernon

Vernon is a peaceful, relaxing, and quiet town. Other reasons to visit include museums, food, and hiking. See Vernon travel costs.

Gatlinburg and Vernon: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Gatlinburg or Vernon?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Gatlinburg than Vernon, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Gatlinburg is better known for its skiing, nightlife, and resorts, while Vernon is more popular for its food. Gatlinburg is more touristy than Vernon and is popular 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. Vernon is well known for its surrounding valley with lakes and hiking trails.

How is Gatlinburg different from Vernon?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Gatlinburg or Vernon Better for Skiing?

Gatlinburg is a nice place to visit for snow skiing. However, Vernon 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.

Vernon is not a skiing destination.

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

Spend time exploring the notable sights and museums in either Gatlinburg or Vernon.

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.

Vernon offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. There are local galleries and museums that offer information on the region's history and culture. You can visit the Canadian Wildlife Museum, the Caetani Center, the Museum and Archives of Vernon, the Paddlewheel Park Stationhouse Museum, and the Vernon Public Art Gallery.

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

Vernon 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 Vernon. The region is known for its vineyards and wineries and many of the local restaurants have been around for generations. The food is often locally produced and prepared with traditional recipes.

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 Vernon Better for Nightlife?

Gatlinburg is terrific for its evening party scene. However, Vernon is not a good town for nightlife.

Gatlinburg is a must-see party destination. 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.

Those looking for nightlife will find a few places to hang out in Vernon. The town gets very quiet in the evenings, so you won't find much of a nightlife scene.

Is Gatlinburg or Vernon Better for Resorts?

Gatlinburg is a well-known place for its resorts. However, Vernon is not a resort destination.

Gatlinburg is a popular resort destination that attracts visitors from everywhere. There are plenty of resorts and vacation clubs near town. Many have pools, waterslides, or hot tubs.

Vernon is not a resort destination.

Is Gatlinburg or Vernon Better for Hiking?

You'll find excellent hiking in both Gatlinburg and Vernon.

Many visitors go to Gatlinburg for the hiking trails. 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.

Vernon is a popular spot for hiking. The surrounding valley has more than 300 kilometers of hiking trails. They run along pristine lakes, pass by granite rock formations, and take you to impressive viewpoints.

Is the Shopping Better in Gatlinburg or Vernon?

If you're looking to go shopping, Gatlinburg and Vernon both offer plenty of notable spots.

Plenty of visitors enjoy shopping while in Gatlinburg. There are tourist traps and souvenir shops around town, but you can also head to the Great Smoky Arts and Crafts Community where you can meet local artists and learn about their work.

Vernon offers some nice shopping areas. There are a number of boutique shops that are fun to explore in the downtown area.

Is Gatlinburg or Vernon Better for Families?

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

Vernon offers lots of family activities. There are biking and hiking trails as well as other outdoor activities. You can also visit the Allan Brooks Nature Center or the Rock Garden Climbing Center.

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 Vernon Better for Couples?

Gatlinburg is a well-known place for couples. Also, Vernon is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for romance.

Gatlinburg is a very popular place to visit for couples. 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.

Vernon is a nice destination for couples. It offers a peaceful getaway for couples. You can visit the Okanagan wineries or enjoy one of the many hiking trails. There are also nice restaurants to try.

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

Gatlinburg is a nice place to visit for its public transit. However, Vernon is not a good town for times when you don't have a car.

Gatlinburg has a few public transit options. There's a free trolley service that offers a convenient way to get around town.

Public transit is mostly limited in Vernon. There is a bus system, but it's better not to rely on it.

Is Gatlinburg or Vernon a more walkable city?

Gatlinburg is a well-known place for its ease of walking around. However, Vernon is not a good town 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.

Vernon is generally not a very walkable city. You'll really want to have a car to make the most of your time here.

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

Should I spend more time in Vernon or Gatlinburg?

How long in Gatlinburg or Vernon?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Gatlinburg and Vernon. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Gatlinburg than in Vernon. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Gatlinburg, and 1-3 days is enough time in Vernon.

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

Couples should spend more time in Gatlinburg than Vernon. 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 Vernon if your budget allows for it. With a larger number of budget-friendly sights, good nightlife, and active things to do, anyone traveling on a budget would have a good time in Gatlinburg.

One day in Gatlinburg or Vernon?

Many travelers enjoy the museums and skiing when visiting the destination of Gatlinburg. Hikers are also drawn to this area. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

With museums and food around the peaceful town of Vernon, 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. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Vernon, one day is sufficent for most.

A weekend in Gatlinburg or Vernon?

Gatlinburg is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. Don't miss the nightlife, as that's what most people do. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

With food and shopping around the destination of Vernon, 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 town.

Five days in Gatlinburg or Vernon?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Gatlinburg. Don't miss the nightlife, as that's what most people do. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Vernon, a popular town, is full of activities for travelers. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

A week in Gatlinburg or Vernon?

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the wild destination of Gatlinburg. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

Vernon 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.

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 Coach Bus Tours in Canada, and The Best Adventure Tours to Canada.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Gatlinburg and Vernon, we can see that Gatlinburg is more expensive. And not only is Vernon much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Vernon would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Vernon 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 Vernon.

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

Which is Bigger, Gatlinburg or Vernon?

Vernon has a larger population, and is about 10 times larger than the population of Gatlinburg. When comparing the sizes of Gatlinburg and Vernon, 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 Vernon?

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 Vernon in the Summer?

Both Vernon and Gatlinburg during the summer are popular places to visit. The hiking are the main draw to Gatlinburg this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Vernon for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Gatlinburg is generally a little warmer than Vernon. Daily temperatures in Gatlinburg average around 81°F (27°C), and Vernon fluctuates around 23°C (73°F).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Gatlinburg. Gatlinburg usually gets more rain in July than Vernon. Gatlinburg gets 4.7 inches (119 mm) of rain, while Vernon receives 28 mm (1.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Gatlinburg or Vernon in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Gatlinburg and Vernon. Many travelers come to Gatlinburg for the hiking trails and the shopping scene. Furthermore, many visitors come to Vernon in the autumn for the hiking trails and the shopping scene.

Gatlinburg is much warmer than Vernon in the autumn. The daily temperature in Gatlinburg averages around 63°F (17°C) in October, and Vernon fluctuates around 11°C (51°F).

In October, Gatlinburg usually receives more rain than Vernon. Gatlinburg gets 2.7 inches (68 mm) of rain, while Vernon receives 14 mm (0.6 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Gatlinburg or Vernon in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Gatlinburg as well as Vernon. Many visitors come to Gatlinburg in the winter for the skiing, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Additionally, most visitors come to Vernon for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Vernon can be very cold during winter. Gatlinburg can get quite cold in the winter. In the winter, Gatlinburg is much warmer than Vernon. Typically, the winter temperatures in Gatlinburg in January average around 40°F (5°C), and Vernon averages at about -3°C (27°F).

Gatlinburg receives a lot of rain in the winter. Gatlinburg usually gets more rain in January than Vernon. Gatlinburg gets 4.7 inches (119 mm) of rain, while Vernon receives 26 mm (1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Gatlinburg or Vernon in the Spring?

Both Vernon and Gatlinburg are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities.

In April, Gatlinburg is generally a little warmer than Vernon. Daily temperatures in Gatlinburg average around 62°F (17°C), and Vernon fluctuates around 12°C (53°F).

In April, Gatlinburg usually receives more rain than Vernon. Gatlinburg gets 3.6 inches (92 mm) of rain, while Vernon receives 15 mm (0.6 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Vernon and Gatlinburg