A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Gatlinburg vs. Winnipeg for Nightlife, Attractions, Couples, and Food

Should you visit Gatlinburg or Winnipeg?

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

Gatlinburg

Gatlinburg is a high energy, wild, and flashy city. Visitors also love the skiing, nightlife, and hiking. See Gatlinburg travel costs.

Winnipeg

Winnipeg is a friendly, welcoming, and cultural city. Other reasons to visit include museums, nightlife, and food. See Winnipeg travel costs.

Gatlinburg and Winnipeg: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular for skiing
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Nice resorts
  • Good for hiking
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Very walkable
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with backpackers
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less walkable


Is there more to do in Gatlinburg or Winnipeg?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Gatlinburg. Although Gatlinburg and Winnipeg are popular destinations, Gatlinburg has more sights and attractions for tourists. Gatlinburg is very popular for its skiing, nightlife, resorts, and hiking, while Winnipeg attracts visitors for its museums and attractions and food. Gatlinburg is more touristy than Winnipeg and is known for its countless entertainment venues as well as its easy access to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. It is also well known for the Gatlinburg Strip. Winnipeg is famous for its festivals, culture, and railway connections.

How is Gatlinburg different from Winnipeg?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Gatlinburg or Winnipeg Better for Skiing?

Gatlinburg
Winnipeg

Gatlinburg is a city with good options for skiing. However, Winnipeg is not a skiing destination.

For winter sports and skiing, Gatlinburg is a great destination to visit. Ober Gatlinburg is the only ski area in Tennessee. The winter activities open after Thanksgiving and include snow skiing, snowboarding, ice skating, and tubing.

Winnipeg is not a skiing destination.


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

Gatlinburg
Winnipeg

Winnipeg is great for its historical sights. Also, Gatlinburg is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its sights and museums.

Many visitors head to Winnipeg specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. There are some unique museums around town including the Canadian Museum for Human Rights. Other popular museums are the Manitoba Museum and the Manitoba Children's Museum.

Gatlinburg offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. 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.

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

Gatlinburg
Winnipeg

Winnipeg 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 Winnipeg. You'll find a wide variety of restaurants around town that serve a mix of local dishes and international cuisines. A must-see part of the city is the historic Forks Market.

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 Winnipeg Better for Nightlife?

Gatlinburg
Winnipeg

Gatlinburg is an unbeatable place for nightlife and partying. Also, Winnipeg is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its evening party scene.

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.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Winnipeg. The city has an active nightlife, even during the winter months. You'll find dance clubs, bars, and pubs around town that are popular with locals and visitors alike.


Is Gatlinburg or Winnipeg Better for Resorts?

Gatlinburg
Winnipeg

Gatlinburg is great for its luxury resorts. However, Winnipeg is not a resort destination.

In Gatlinburg, you'll find some of the region's top resorts. There are plenty of resorts and vacation clubs near town. Many have pools, waterslides, or hot tubs.

Winnipeg is not a resort destination.

Is Gatlinburg or Winnipeg Better for Hiking?

Gatlinburg
Winnipeg

Gatlinburg is great for hiking. However, Winnipeg is not a hiking destination.

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.

Winnipeg is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Gatlinburg or Winnipeg?

Gatlinburg
Winnipeg

If you're looking to go shopping, Gatlinburg and Winnipeg both offer plenty of nice 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.

Winnipeg offers some nice shopping areas. You'll find all of the standard shopping options around town, from boutiques to big box shops and even some outlets.


Is Gatlinburg or Winnipeg Better for Families?

Gatlinburg
Winnipeg

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

Winnipeg offers lots of family activities. Kids will love a visit to the Assiniboine Park Zoo or the Manitoba Children's Museum. There are a number of parks and playgrounds around town as well as the Prairie Dog Central Railway. There are many kid-friendly restaurants in the city as well.

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 Winnipeg Better for Couples?

Gatlinburg
Winnipeg

Gatlinburg is great for its romantic activities. Also, Winnipeg is not as popular, but is still a nice city for couples.

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.

Winnipeg is a good city for couples to visit. Many couples enjoy wandering through Assiniboine Park. There are also many romantic restaurants and spas for couples.

Is Gatlinburg or Winnipeg Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Gatlinburg
Winnipeg

Winnipeg is very good for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Gatlinburg is not a good destination for backpackers.

Winnipeg is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. While it's often overlooked by backpackers, there are a couple of hostels around town.

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

Gatlinburg
Winnipeg

Gatlinburg is a city with good options for times when you don't have a car. However, Winnipeg is not a good destination 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 generally limited in Winnipeg. There's a bus system around town, but many visitors prefer to have a vehicle.

Is Gatlinburg or Winnipeg a more walkable city?

Gatlinburg
Winnipeg

Gatlinburg is great for its high level of walkability. However, Winnipeg is not a good destination for its ease of walking around.

Gatlinburg is a very walkable city. 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.

Winnipeg is generally not very walkable. While there are a few walkable neighborhoods, the city itself is not particularly walkable, particularly during the cold winter months.

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

Should I spend more time in Winnipeg or Gatlinburg?

How long in Gatlinburg or Winnipeg?

It's fun to spend time in either Gatlinburg or Winnipeg. In our opinion, Gatlinburg has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Gatlinburg than Winnipeg. However, 2-4 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

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

Couples should spend more time in Gatlinburg than Winnipeg. 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 Winnipeg than Gatlinburg 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 Winnipeg.


  • How many days in Gatlinburg or Winnipeg? Ideal Length of Stay
    Gatlinburg 2-4 
    Winnipeg 2-4

One day in Gatlinburg or Winnipeg?

The city of Gatlinburg offers nightlife and shopping. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

With museums and nightlife around the friendly city of Winnipeg, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.


A weekend in Gatlinburg or Winnipeg?

Gatlinburg is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this city makes for a great vacation. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Gatlinburg, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

With nightlife and food around the destination of Winnipeg, there's plenty to do. It offers something for everyone. Many people spend a weekend here. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this city.

Five days in Gatlinburg or Winnipeg?

Gatlinburg is a popular choice for travelers. It's no surprise that nightlife is why people visit. Five days 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 entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Winnipeg, a popular city, is full of activities for travelers. 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 Winnipeg?

Gatlinburg is a great place to explore. It's no surprise that nightlife is why people visit. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This city offers something for everyone.

Winnipeg 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, Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in Canada, and The Best Coach Bus Tours in Canada.


Which place is cheaper, Winnipeg 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
    Winnipeg Prices
    Canada Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Gatlinburg $253
    Winnipeg $255

The average daily cost (per person) in Gatlinburg is $253, while the average daily cost in Winnipeg is $255. 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 Winnipeg in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Gatlinburg $80
    Winnipeg $92
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Gatlinburg $160
    Winnipeg $184
Compare Hotels in Gatlinburg and Winnipeg

Looking for a hotel in Gatlinburg or Winnipeg? 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 Winnipeg


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 and Winnipeg Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Gatlinburg $35
    Winnipeg -

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Winnipeg

Also for Winnipeg, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Winnipeg One way Private transfer from/to the Airport: $200
  • Winnipeg Airport (YWG) to Winnipeg accomodation - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $165
  • Private Transfer from Winnipeg Airport (YWG) to Winnipeg Hotels: $97
  • Private Transfer from Winnipeg Hotels to Winnipeg Airport (YWG): $97
  • Winnipeg accomodation to Winnipeg Airport (YWG) - Departure Private Transfer: $83
  • Winnipeg Airport (YWG) to Winnipeg accomodation - Arrival Private Transfer: $83
  • Private Transfer from Winnipeg Airport to Winnipeg Accommodation : $37

Is it cheaper to fly into Gatlinburg or Winnipeg?

Prices for flights to both Winnipeg 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
    Winnipeg $9.33
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
    Winnipeg $2.52
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

Tours and Activities in Winnipeg

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

  • Discover Assiniboine Park with a Smartphone Audio Tour: $6.61
  • Explore The Challenge of Moderninity with Walking Tours in Winnipeg, MB: $6.61
  • Manitoba Legislative Grounds: Smartphone Audio Tour: $6.61
  • Murder Mystery Detective Experience in Winnipeg MB: $11
  • Private City Tour in Winnipeg: $96
  • The Forks Historic Site: a Smartphone Audio Tour: $6.61
  • The Sights of South a Smartphone Audio Tour: $6.61
  • Unique Scavenger Hunt Experience in Winnipeg by Operation City Quest: $10
  • Walk 4 Smartphone Audio Walking Tours: $19
  • Winnipeg Private Walking Tour with a Local: $40
  • Winnipeg in the Limelight: a Smartphone Audio Walking Tour: $6.61
  • Winnipeg's Most Haunted: a Smartphone Audio Ghost Tour: $6.61

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Gatlinburg $15
    Winnipeg -

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 Winnipeg, we can see that Winnipeg 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 Winnipeg Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Gatlinburg or Winnipeg?

Winnipeg has a larger population, and is about 150 times larger than the population of Gatlinburg. When comparing the sizes of Gatlinburg and Winnipeg, 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 Winnipeg?

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 Gatlinburg or Winnipeg in the Summer?

Both Winnipeg and Gatlinburg are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Gatlinburg for the hiking. Also, many visitors come to Winnipeg in the summer for the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Gatlinburg is a little warmer than Winnipeg. Typically, the summer temperatures in Gatlinburg in July average around 81°F (27°C), and Winnipeg averages at about 21°C (71°F).

It's quite sunny in Winnipeg. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Gatlinburg. Gatlinburg usually receives less sunshine than Winnipeg during summer. Gatlinburg gets 294 hours of sunny skies, while Winnipeg receives 328 hours of full sun in the summer.

It's quite rainy in Gatlinburg. In July, Gatlinburg usually receives more rain than Winnipeg. Gatlinburg gets 4.7 inches (119 mm) of rain, while Winnipeg receives 72 mm (2.8 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Gatlinburg 81°F (27°C) 
    Winnipeg 21°C (71°F)

Should I visit Gatlinburg or Winnipeg in the Autumn?

Both Winnipeg and Gatlinburg during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Gatlinburg in the autumn for the hiking trails and the shopping scene. Also, most visitors come to Winnipeg for the shopping scene during these months.

In October, Gatlinburg is generally much warmer than Winnipeg. Daily temperatures in Gatlinburg average around 63°F (17°C), and Winnipeg fluctuates around 7°C (45°F).

It's quite sunny in Gatlinburg. In the autumn, Gatlinburg often gets more sunshine than Winnipeg. Gatlinburg gets 213 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Winnipeg receives 147 hours of full sun.

Gatlinburg usually gets more rain in October than Winnipeg. Gatlinburg gets 2.7 inches (68 mm) of rain, while Winnipeg receives 30 mm (1.2 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Gatlinburg 63°F (17°C) 
    Winnipeg 7°C (45°F)

Should I visit Gatlinburg or Winnipeg in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Gatlinburg and Winnipeg. Most visitors come to Gatlinburg for the skiing, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Winnipeg because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

The weather in Winnipeg can be very cold. Gatlinburg can be very cold during winter. Gatlinburg is much warmer than Winnipeg in the winter. The daily temperature in Gatlinburg averages around 40°F (5°C) in January, and Winnipeg fluctuates around -17°C (2°F).

Gatlinburg usually receives more sunshine than Winnipeg during winter. Gatlinburg gets 134 hours of sunny skies, while Winnipeg receives 115 hours of full sun in the winter.

Gatlinburg gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In January, Gatlinburg usually receives more rain than Winnipeg. Gatlinburg gets 4.7 inches (119 mm) of rain, while Winnipeg receives 19 mm (0.7 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Gatlinburg 40°F (5°C) 
    Winnipeg -17°C (2°F)

Should I visit Gatlinburg or Winnipeg in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Gatlinburg as well as Winnipeg.

In the spring, Gatlinburg is much warmer than Winnipeg. Typically, the spring temperatures in Gatlinburg in April average around 62°F (17°C), and Winnipeg averages at about 5°C (42°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Winnipeg. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Gatlinburg this time of the year. In the spring, Gatlinburg often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Winnipeg. Gatlinburg gets 263 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Winnipeg receives 248 hours of full sun.

Gatlinburg usually gets more rain in April than Winnipeg. Gatlinburg gets 3.6 inches (92 mm) of rain, while Winnipeg receives 36 mm (1.4 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Gatlinburg 62°F (17°C) 
    Winnipeg 5°C (42°F)

Typical Weather for Winnipeg and Gatlinburg

Gatlinburg Winnipeg
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 40°F (5°C) 4.7 inches (119 mm) -17°C (2°F) 19 mm (0.7 in)
Feb 44°F (7°C) 4.7 inches (120 mm) -14°C (8°F) 15 mm (0.6 in)
Mar 54°F (12°C) 4.8 inches (123 mm) -6°C (22°F) 23 mm (0.9 in)
Apr 62°F (17°C) 3.6 inches (92 mm) 5°C (42°F) 36 mm (1.4 in)
May 70°F (21°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm) 13°C (56°F) 60 mm (2.4 in)
Jun 78°F (25°C) 3.6 inches (92 mm) 19°C (65°F) 84 mm (3.3 in)
Jul 81°F (27°C) 4.7 inches (119 mm) 21°C (71°F) 72 mm (2.8 in)
Aug 80°F (27°C) 3.2 inches (82 mm) 20°C (68°F) 75 mm (3 in)
Sep 74°F (24°C) 2.8 inches (71 mm) 14°C (57°F) 51 mm (2 in)
Oct 63°F (17°C) 2.7 inches (68 mm) 7°C (45°F) 30 mm (1.2 in)
Nov 53°F (12°C) 3.5 inches (90 mm) -3°C (26°F) 21 mm (0.8 in)
Dec 44°F (7°C) 4.5 inches (114 mm) -13°C (9°F) 19 mm (0.7 in)