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

Should you visit Memphis or Monterey?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Memphis or Monterey, 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 live music, food, and museums. See Memphis travel costs.

Monterey

Monterey is a nature-oriented, laid back, and relaxing city. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food. See Monterey travel costs.

Memphis and Monterey: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Memphis or Monterey?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Memphis. Although Memphis and Monterey are popular destinations, Memphis has more sights and attractions for tourists. Memphis is very popular for its music and big city activities, while Monterey attracts visitors for its museums and attractions, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and shopping. Monterey is more touristy than Memphis and is known for its rugged coastline, diverse marine life, and excellent seafood. 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 Monterey?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Monterey 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 Monterey?

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

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Monterey can be an interesting and educational experience. The Monterey Bay Aquarium is a not-to-be-missed destination in town. You can also visit the Monterey State Historic Park or the Monterey Museum of Art.

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

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

Foodies will find both Memphis and Monterey both to be great 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, Monterey makes for a great culinary experience. Seafood and local produce are what make the food special. There are many great restaurants to you can choose from that will let you enjoy the classic seafood dishes like clam chowder or oysters, as well as fresh artichokes and local wine.

Is Memphis or Monterey Better for Nightlife?

If the nightlife is your priority, you'll find great options in both Memphis and Monterey.

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.

Monterey offers plenty to do in the evening. There's a buzzing atmosphere at night with bars, breweries, and casual eateries all coming to life. Some of the best venues are found at the Old Fisherman's Wharf and along Alvarado Street.

Is Memphis or Monterey Better for Music?

Memphis is an amazing city to visit for its music scene. However, Monterey 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.

Monterey is not a live music destination.

Is Memphis or Monterey Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Monterey is a nice place to visit for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Memphis is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Monterey has a few areas where visitors often go scuba diving or snorkeling. Scuba diving offers an unforgettable experience. The Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary gives you the unique experience of seeing sea lions, otters, kelp forests, crabs, and more.

Memphis is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Memphis or Monterey Better for Beaches?

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

Monterey has a beach worth visiting. The beaches highlight the laid by California vibe with sunbathers and beachgoers soaking up the atmosphere. There are both inlets and sandy beaches where you can see sea lions or explore the tidal pools.

Memphis is not a beach destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Memphis or Monterey?

Monterey is a great city for its shopping areas. However, Memphis is not known for shopping.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in Monterey. You'll find both local vendors and tourist shops around town. Cannery Row is a popular destination, as is Old Fisherman's Wharf and the Old Farmer's Market.

Memphis is a good destination for shopping. The city has plenty of malls and chain stores where you can grab anything you might need.

Is Memphis or Monterey Better for Families?

Monterey is a world-class destination for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Memphis is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its family-friendly activities.

Monterey is an amazing family-friendly city to visit. Monterey Bay Aquarium is a highlight for kids and adults alike. There's also the Monterey Zoo as well as lighthearted activities like a mirror maze. MY Museum is an interactive museum that's perfect for younger kids. There are also whale watching trips and nearby beaches.

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 Monterey Better for Couples?

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

Monterey is a great city if you're traveling as a couple. There are many romantic inns in town as well as quaint restaurants and fun activities. There are also spas, wine bars, and plenty of shopping for couples to enjoy as well.

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 Monterey Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

For backpackers, both Memphis and Monterey are nice places to visit.

It's common for backpackers to visit Memphis. There are a couple of hostels and plenty of live music that make this a popular stop off for young travelers.

Monterey is a good city to visit for backpackers. There's a hostel in town as well as fun activities that will appeal to backpackers.

Is Memphis or Monterey Better for Students?

Memphis is a good destination for its student-friendly activities. However, Monterey is not popular with students.

Plenty of students visit Memphis. The live music scene and great food options make this is a fun town for students.

Monterey is not popular with students.

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

Memphis and Monterey 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 Monterey. There is a bus system through the area.

Is Memphis or Monterey a more walkable city?

Monterey is a great city for its ease of walking around. Also, Memphis is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its walkability.

Monterey is a very walkable destination. If you stay near the town center, it's very walkable and easy to get around on foot.

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

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

Should I spend more time in Monterey or Memphis?

How long in Memphis or Monterey?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Memphis and Monterey. In our opinion, Monterey has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Monterey than Memphis. In general, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Memphis, and 1-3 days is enough time in Monterey.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Monterey 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 Monterey.

One day in Memphis or Monterey?

The city of Memphis offers live music and food. 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.

In Monterey, you'll find shopping and museums. This city offers something for everyone. This would be the perfect place to spend one day, as it has just the right amount of activities.

A weekend in Memphis or Monterey?

Memphis 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. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Memphis, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

In Monterey, you'll find museums and nightlife. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Monterey has to offer.

Five days in Memphis or Monterey?

Memphis is a popular choice for travelers. It's no surprise that live music 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.

Monterey is a great place to explore. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

A week in Memphis or Monterey?

Memphis is a great place to explore. It's no surprise that live music is why people visit. 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Monterey. Many people enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling when visiting Monterey. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

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 Monterey, we can see that Monterey 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 Monterey Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Memphis or Monterey?

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

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 Monterey in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Memphis and Monterey. Many travelers come to Memphis for the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Monterey in the summer for the beaches, snorkeling, and the family-friendly experiences.

Memphis is much warmer than Monterey in the summer. The daily temperature in Memphis averages around 83°F (29°C) in July, and Monterey fluctuates around 63°F (17°C).

In July, Memphis usually receives more rain than Monterey. Memphis gets 2.9 inches (73 mm) of rain, while Monterey receives 0 inches (1 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Memphis or Monterey in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Memphis as well as Monterey. Many visitors come to Memphis in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the music scene. Also, most visitors come to Monterey for the shopping scene during these months.

In the autumn, Memphis is around the same temperature as Monterey. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Memphis in October average around 64°F (18°C), and Monterey averages at about 62°F (17°C).

Memphis usually gets more rain in October than Monterey. Memphis gets 1.6 inches (41 mm) of rain, while Monterey receives 0.6 inches (14 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Memphis or Monterey in the Winter?

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

Memphis can be very cold during winter. In January, Memphis is generally much colder than Monterey. Daily temperatures in Memphis average around 40°F (5°C), and Monterey fluctuates around 51°F (11°C).

In January, Memphis usually receives around the same amount of rain as Monterey. Memphis gets 2.4 inches (62 mm) of rain, while Monterey receives 2.3 inches (58 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Memphis or Monterey in the Spring?

Both Monterey and Memphis during the spring are popular places to visit. The spring months attract visitors to Memphis because of the activities around the city. Furthermore, the beaches are the main draw to Monterey this time of year.

Memphis is a little warmer than Monterey in the spring. The daily temperature in Memphis averages around 64°F (18°C) in April, and Monterey fluctuates around 56°F (13°C).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Memphis. Memphis usually gets more rain in April than Monterey. Memphis gets 4.3 inches (109 mm) of rain, while Monterey receives 1.1 inches (29 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Monterey and Memphis