A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Memphis vs. Hilo for Food, Nightlife, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Memphis or Hilo?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Memphis or Hilo, this travel comparison, which includes costs, can help. The overall cost of travel is usually a consideration when deciding where to go next, and the cost comparison down below can help you decide based on the average prices from other travelers along with your own travel budget.

Memphis

Memphis is a laid-back, soulful, and creative city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and live music. See Memphis travel costs.

Hilo

Hilo is a friendly, authentic, and laid back town. With stunning beauty, Hilo attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the museums, food, and beaches. See Hilo travel costs.

Memphis and Hilo: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Memphis or Hilo?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Memphis. Although Memphis and Hilo are popular destinations, Memphis has more sights and attractions for tourists. Memphis is very popular for its nightlife, music, and big city activities, while Hilo attracts visitors for its resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, and impressive beauty. Hilo is more touristy than Memphis and is known for its nearby rainforests, waterfalls, and green gardens. Memphis is famous for its influential music scene and its southern barbecue. It is also well known for Elvis Presley's Graceland.

How is Memphis different from Hilo?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Memphis or Hilo?

You'll find a number of nice museums and attractions in both Hilo and Memphis.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Memphis. Many attractions in town are related to the city's history in music. There is the famed Graceland as well as the Rock 'n' Soul Museum, the Blues Hall of Fame and Stax Museum of American Soul Music. The city also has several art museums that are worth checking out.

Hilo is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. Top museums in and around town include the Lyman Museum, the Pacific Tsunami Museum, Imiloa Astronomy Center, and Mokupapapa Discovery Center.

Is the Food Better in Memphis or Hilo? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Foodies will find both Memphis and Hilo both to be very good destinations.

Memphis has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. The town has grown into a foodie destination with excellent barbecue and ribs. There are many award winning barbecue joints, but you'll also find casual bars that serve nachos, pizza, and other quick bites.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Hilo makes for a great culinary experience. This is the largest city on the island and you'll find a restaurant scene that caters to both locals and tourists. There are a number of local dishes that you can try such as Pla Rad Prik (a Thai fish dish), mushroom pot pie, and crab and avocado melt.

Is Memphis or Hilo Better for Nightlife?

Memphis is a great city for its evening party scene. However, Hilo is not known for nightlife.

The nightlife in Memphis has something for everybody. Music is at the heart of the nightlife scene. Head to Beale Street in Memphis's downtown for the most active nightlife that usually stays open the latest. You'll also find a lot of bars and clubs in Midtown around Overton Square.

Most people don't head to Hilo specifically for the nightlife scene, but you can find a few options. It's a town that goes to bed early, but there are some local bars that have a chill and relaxing atmosphere.

Is Memphis or Hilo Better for Music?

Memphis is very popular for its music scene. However, Hilo is not a live music destination.

Memphis has become a mecca for musicians from around the world. There are plenty of live music venues in the downtown area that you can explore. Several of the most famous include B.B. King's Blues Club, Handy Park Pavilion, and Blues City Cafe. The city is known for its influential role in several music genres including the blues, soul, and rock 'n' roll. There are also many music related museums and attractions in town like Graceland, the Rock 'n' Soul Museum, the Blues Hall of Fame and Stax Museum of American Soul Music.

Hilo is not a live music destination.

Is Memphis or Hilo Better for Resorts?

Hilo is adequate for its luxury resorts. However, Memphis is not a resort destination.

You might not think of Hilo as a resort destination, but it has a few places. You'll find more hotels than resorts in town.

Memphis is not a resort destination.

Is Memphis or Hilo Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Hilo is adequate for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Memphis is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

There are few places where you can go snorkeling in Hilo. Richardsons Ocean Park is the best snorkeling spot nearby but, in general, the water near town has poor visibility because of the frequent rain.

Memphis is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Memphis or Hilo Better for Beaches?

Hilo is a nice place to visit for the beach. However, Memphis is not a beach destination.

Hilo has a beach worth visiting. The town isn't really known for its beaches but there are some decent options if you want to stay nearby and hit the coastline. Beaches in the area include Coconut Island, Reeds Bay Beach Park, and Onekahakaha Beach Park.

Memphis is not a beach destination.

Is Memphis or Hilo Better for Hiking?

Hilo is a world-class destination for hiking. However, Memphis is not a hiking destination.

Known for its hiking, Hilo draws a crowd to experience the nature and the trails. You'll find incredible hikes in the area to many impressive waterfalls. There are also coastal trails and hikes to spectacular viewpoints.

Memphis is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Memphis or Hilo?

If you're looking to go shopping, Memphis and Hilo both offer plenty of reasonable spots.

Memphis has some good spots for those that want to go shopping. The city has plenty of malls and chain stores where you can grab anything you might need.

Hilo is a good destination for shopping. You can pick up anything you need in town, just head to Hilo Shopping Center.

Is Memphis or Hilo More Beautiful?

Hilo is a great town for its scenery and beauty. However, Memphis is not a destination known for its beauty.

With stunning beauty, Hilo attracts visitors from all around. This side of the island is filled with beautiful waterfalls, lush rainforests, and tropical gardens.

Memphis is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Memphis or Hilo Better for Families?

Hilo is a great town for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Memphis is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its family-friendly activities.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Hilo. The town has an authentic and unpretentious vibe that is fun for families. There are low key beaches, farmer's markets, local museums, and nearby hiking. If you want to stay away from the larger resorts and see a more local side to Hawaii, then this is a great option.

Memphis is a family-friendly place to visit. The town has some great activities for kids including a zoo, several museums, petting farms, and a botanical garden.

Is Memphis or Hilo Better for Couples?

Hilo is a great town for couples. Also, Memphis is not as popular, but is still a nice city for romance.

Hilo is a great town if you're traveling as a couple. Couples will enjoy visiting Liliuokalani Gardens, taking sunset cruises, and sampling the local cuisine. The town also makes a good base for hiking and exploring the beaches on the island.

Memphis is a nice destination for couples. Couples who enjoy good music and southern food will enjoy a weekend here. There are many music related landmarks including Graceland and the Rock 'n' Soul Museum. Live music is very popular as well.

Is Memphis or Hilo Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Hilo is a great town for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Memphis is not as popular, but is still a nice city for backpackers.

Plenty of budget travelers and backpackers visit Hilo. The town has several local hostels that many backpackers prefer for their authentic and mellow atmospheres.

Memphis is a good city to visit for backpackers. There are a couple of hostels and plenty of live music that make this a popular stop off for young travelers.

Is Memphis or Hilo Better for Students?

Memphis is a popular place for its student-friendly activities. However, Hilo is not popular with students.

It's common for students to visit Memphis. The live music scene and great food options make this is a fun town for students.

Hilo is not popular with students.

Is Memphis or Hilo Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Memphis and Hilo both offer reasonable public transit to get you around.

Public transit is mostly limited in Memphis. There is a trolley and bus system that the city operates, but a car is really helpful for getting around.

Public transit is generally limited in Hilo. The Hele-On is a bus service that connects Hilo to Kona with north and south routes.

Is Memphis or Hilo a more walkable city?

Memphis and Hilo are nice when it comes to walkability.

Memphis is a somewhat walkable city. Most of the touristy parts of town are walkable, but if you want to explore further out you'll need a car.

Hilo is somewhat walkable. The downtown is a nice place to take a stroll, but if you want to get out of town, and you really should, then you'll need a car.

For even more information, also check out Is Memphis Worth Visiting? and Is Hilo Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Hilo or Memphis?

How long in Memphis or Hilo?

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

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Hilo than Memphis 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 Hilo.

One day in Memphis or Hilo?

Visitors enjoy the live music and food when visiting the destination of Memphis. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

In Hilo, you'll find food and museums. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. One reason most visitors come is for the hiking. This town offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

A weekend in Memphis or Hilo?

Memphis is a fun place to experience. Most people visit for the live music. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. A weekend is often enough time to do most activities. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

In Hilo, you'll find museums and food. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One reason most visitors come is for the hiking. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

Five days in Memphis or Hilo?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the laid-back destination of Memphis. This city offers something for everyone. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Hilo is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Hilo has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

A week in Memphis or Hilo?

The creative city of Memphis offers nightlife and live music. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Hilo. In Hilo, you'll find museums and food. One reason most visitors come is for the hiking. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one week here.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Los Angeles, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from New York City, The Best 2-Week Tours from New York City, and The Best 2-Week Tours from Anchorage.

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

Which is Bigger, Memphis or Hilo?

Memphis has a larger population, and is about 20 times larger than the population of Hilo. When comparing the sizes of Memphis and Hilo, 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 Memphis or Hilo?

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 Memphis or Hilo in the Summer?

Both Hilo and Memphis are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Memphis in the summer for the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Hilo for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

Memphis is a little warmer than Hilo in the summer. The daily temperature in Memphis averages around 83°F (29°C) in July, and Hilo fluctuates around 76°F (24°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Memphis. Memphis usually receives more sunshine than Hilo during summer. Memphis gets 328 hours of sunny skies, while Hilo receives 169 hours of full sun in the summer.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Hilo. In July, Memphis usually receives less rain than Hilo. Memphis gets 2.9 inches (73 mm) of rain, while Hilo receives 9.7 inches (247 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Memphis or Hilo in the Autumn?

Both Hilo and Memphis during the autumn are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Memphis for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the music scene during these months. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Hilo because of the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Memphis is cooler than Hilo. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Memphis in October average around 64°F (18°C), and Hilo averages at about 76°F (24°C).

It's quite sunny in Memphis. In the autumn, Memphis often gets more sunshine than Hilo. Memphis gets 240 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Hilo receives 138 hours of full sun.

Hilo gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Memphis usually gets less rain in October than Hilo. Memphis gets 1.6 inches (41 mm) of rain, while Hilo receives 9.8 inches (248 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Memphis or Hilo in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Memphis and Hilo. The winter months attract visitors to Memphis because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Hilo this time of year.

The weather in Memphis can be very cold. In January, Memphis is generally much colder than Hilo. Daily temperatures in Memphis average around 40°F (5°C), and Hilo fluctuates around 72°F (22°C).

Memphis usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Hilo during winter. Memphis gets 163 hours of sunny skies, while Hilo receives 158 hours of full sun in the winter.

Hilo receives a lot of rain in the winter. In January, Memphis usually receives less rain than Hilo. Memphis gets 2.4 inches (62 mm) of rain, while Hilo receives 8.7 inches (221 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Memphis or Hilo in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Memphis as well as Hilo. The activities around the city are the main draw to Memphis this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Hilo for the beaches and the natural beauty.

Memphis is cooler than Hilo in the spring. The daily temperature in Memphis averages around 64°F (18°C) in April, and Hilo fluctuates around 73°F (23°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Memphis this time of the year. In the spring, Memphis often gets more sunshine than Hilo. Memphis gets 254 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Hilo receives 134 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Hilo. Memphis receives a lot of rain in the spring. Memphis usually gets less rain in April than Hilo. Memphis gets 4.3 inches (109 mm) of rain, while Hilo receives 15.6 inches (395 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Hilo and Memphis