A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Jacksonville vs. Gatlinburg for Nightlife, Attractions, Food, and Couples

Should you visit Jacksonville or Gatlinburg?

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

Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for Jacksonville and Gatlinburg. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.

Jacksonville

Jacksonville is a vibrant, under-rated, and lively city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. Other reasons to visit include shopping, museums, and nightlife. See Jacksonville travel costs.

Gatlinburg

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

Jacksonville and Gatlinburg: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Jacksonville or Gatlinburg?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Jacksonville than Gatlinburg, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Jacksonville is better known for its museums and attractions, food, beaches, shopping, and big city activities, while Gatlinburg is more popular for its skiing, nightlife, resorts, and hiking. Gatlinburg is more touristy than Jacksonville and is known for its countless entertainment venues as well as its easy access to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Jacksonville is well known for its beautiful beaches and lively downtown area. Also, Jacksonville is famous for Cummer Museum of Art and Gardens.

How is Jacksonville different from Gatlinburg?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Jacksonville or Gatlinburg Better for Skiing?

Gatlinburg is a good destination for skiing and snowboarding. However, Jacksonville 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.

Jacksonville is not a skiing destination.

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

Jacksonville 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 Jacksonville specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. The city has a number of museums that range from art museums to science or kid-friendly museums. Some favorites are the Museum of Science and History, the Museum of Contemporary Art, the Mandarin Museum and Historical Society, and Kingsley Plantation.

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 Jacksonville or Gatlinburg? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Jacksonville is great for its local flavors and cuisine. However, Gatlinburg is not a good destination for its local cuisine and restaurants.

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in Jacksonville. Local cuisine has its own identity. Unique dishes around town include garlic crabs, seafood boil, gumbo, and shrimp and grits. The local cuisine is similar to Lowcountry dishes with a lot of Cajun influence. If you want something different from seafood, you should try the barbecue.

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 Jacksonville or Gatlinburg Better for Nightlife?

Gatlinburg is renowned for its evening party scene. Also, Jacksonville is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for nightlife.

Gatlinburg is a destination that you simply have to visit at least once for nightlife. 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.

The people in Jacksonville know how to have a good time. The young population brings out the nightlife scene. There's a great concentration of bars and clubs in the area known as The Elbow, which is at the intersection of N. Ocean and E. Bay Street. You'll find plenty of cocktail bars, lounges, and clubs around town that make for a fun night out.

Is Jacksonville or Gatlinburg Better for Resorts?

Gatlinburg is an excellent place to visit for its luxury resorts. However, Jacksonville is not a resort destination.

There are plenty of resorts in Gatlinburg to choose from. There are plenty of resorts and vacation clubs near town. Many have pools, waterslides, or hot tubs.

Jacksonville is not a resort destination.

Is Jacksonville or Gatlinburg Better for Beaches?

Jacksonville is great for its beaches. However, Gatlinburg is not a beach destination.

Jacksonville is a very popular place to visit for its beaches. There are a number of beaches that are just a short distance from the city. Some have a historic vibe while others are more lively. Atlantic Beach is about a half hour drive from the city. For a laid back vibe head to Neptune Beach and the most popular beach in the area is Jacksonville Beach.

Gatlinburg is not a beach destination.

Is Jacksonville or Gatlinburg Better for Hiking?

Gatlinburg is an excellent place to visit for its hiking trails. However, Jacksonville is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors explore the nearby hiking trails while visiting 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.

Jacksonville is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Jacksonville or Gatlinburg?

Jacksonville is great for shopping. Also, Gatlinburg is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its shopping opportunities.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Jacksonville. There are countless malls and shopping districts around town. Some of the best shopping is found at St. John's Center, Five Points, and Avondale.

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 Jacksonville or Gatlinburg Better for Families?

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

Jacksonville offers lots of family activities. It's filled with adventure parks, zoos, animal farms, nature centers, and gardens. Adults will have as much fun as kids exploring the city and all of its family-friendly attractions.

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 Jacksonville or Gatlinburg Better for Couples?

Gatlinburg is an excellent place to visit for couples. Also, Jacksonville is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for romance.

Gatlinburg makes for a fun place to visit for 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.

Jacksonville is a nice destination for couples. It's a young city that's near nature and has plenty of adventurous activities. There's sailing, botanical gardens, restaurants, and plenty of bars around town.

Is Jacksonville or Gatlinburg Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

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

Jacksonville is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. There are a few hostels in town as well as affordable motels. The city has a young population with plenty to do. Although it's often overlooked by tourists, there's a surprising and underrated appeal to the backpacker crowd.

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 Jacksonville or Gatlinburg Better for Students?

Jacksonville is very good for its student-friendly activities. However, Gatlinburg is not popular with students.

It's common for students to visit Jacksonville. There are a few colleges and universities in town. The city's population is also very young, making it a great place to study.

Gatlinburg is not popular with students.

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

Visitors will find notable public transit in both Jacksonville and Gatlinburg.

Jacksonville has some public transit options. The public transportation system includes trolleys, the Skyway, buses, water taxis, and the ferry.

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.

Is Jacksonville or Gatlinburg a more walkable city?

Gatlinburg is an excellent place to visit for its ease of walking around. Also, Jacksonville is not quite as popular, but is fairly good 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.

Jacksonville is somewhat walkable. Downtown Jacksonville is the most walkable part of the city.

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

Should I spend more time in Gatlinburg or Jacksonville?

How long in Jacksonville or Gatlinburg?

It's fun to spend time in either Jacksonville 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 Jacksonville, and 2-4 days is enough time in Gatlinburg.

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

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

One day in Jacksonville or Gatlinburg?

With museums and nightlife around the lively city of Jacksonville, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

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.

A weekend in Jacksonville or Gatlinburg?

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

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.

Five days in Jacksonville or Gatlinburg?

Jacksonville, a popular city, is full of activities for travelers. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. 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 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.

A week in Jacksonville or Gatlinburg?

Jacksonville 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 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.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best G Adventures Tours to United States of America, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Las Vegas, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Anchorage, and The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Los Angeles.

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

Which is Bigger, Jacksonville or Gatlinburg?

Jacksonville has a larger population, and is about 190 times larger than the population of Gatlinburg. When comparing the sizes of Jacksonville and Gatlinburg, 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 Jacksonville 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 Jacksonville or Gatlinburg in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Jacksonville and Gatlinburg. Many travelers come to Jacksonville for the beaches, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, many visitors come to Gatlinburg in the summer for the hiking.

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

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Gatlinburg this time of the year. In Jacksonville, it's very sunny this time of the year. Jacksonville usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Gatlinburg during summer. Jacksonville gets 286 hours of sunny skies, while Gatlinburg receives 294 hours of full sun in the summer.

Gatlinburg receives a lot of rain in the summer. Jacksonville gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In July, Jacksonville usually receives more rain than Gatlinburg. Jacksonville gets 5.4 inches (137 mm) of rain, while Gatlinburg receives 4.7 inches (119 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Jacksonville or Gatlinburg in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Jacksonville as well as Gatlinburg. Many visitors come to Jacksonville in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene. Additionally, most visitors come to Gatlinburg for the hiking trails and the shopping scene during these months.

In October, Jacksonville is generally a little warmer than Gatlinburg. Daily temperatures in Jacksonville average around 70°F (21°C), and Gatlinburg fluctuates around 63°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 Jacksonville this time of the year. In the autumn, Jacksonville often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Gatlinburg. Jacksonville gets 214 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Gatlinburg receives 213 hours of full sun.

Jacksonville usually gets around the same amount of rain in October as Gatlinburg. Jacksonville gets 2.9 inches (73 mm) of rain, while Gatlinburg receives 2.7 inches (68 mm) of rain this time of the year. Also, June to November in Jacksonville is the hurricane season.

Should I visit Jacksonville or Gatlinburg in the Winter?

Both Gatlinburg and Jacksonville are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Jacksonville for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Gatlinburg because of the skiing, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

The weather in Gatlinburg can be very cold. Jacksonville is much warmer than Gatlinburg in the winter. The daily temperature in Jacksonville averages around 53°F (12°C) in January, and Gatlinburg fluctuates around 40°F (5°C).

Jacksonville usually receives more sunshine than Gatlinburg during winter. Jacksonville gets 191 hours of sunny skies, while Gatlinburg receives 134 hours of full sun in the winter.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Gatlinburg. In January, Jacksonville usually receives less rain than Gatlinburg. Jacksonville gets 3.3 inches (83 mm) of rain, while Gatlinburg receives 4.7 inches (119 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Jacksonville or Gatlinburg in the Spring?

Both Gatlinburg and Jacksonville during the spring are popular places to visit. The spring months attract visitors to Jacksonville because of the beaches and the activities around the city.

In the spring, Jacksonville is a little warmer than Gatlinburg. Typically, the spring temperatures in Jacksonville in April average around 68°F (20°C), and Gatlinburg averages at about 62°F (17°C).

In Gatlinburg, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Jacksonville. In the spring, Jacksonville often gets more sunshine than Gatlinburg. Jacksonville gets 285 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Gatlinburg receives 263 hours of full sun.

Jacksonville usually gets less rain in April than Gatlinburg. Jacksonville gets 2.8 inches (72 mm) of rain, while Gatlinburg receives 3.6 inches (92 mm) of rain this time of the year. Also, the hurricane season in Jacksonville is June to November.

Typical Weather for Gatlinburg and Jacksonville