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

Should you visit Memphis or Nantucket?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Memphis or Nantucket, 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 soulful, creative, and laid-back city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. Other reasons to visit include museums, nightlife, and live music. See Memphis travel costs.

Nantucket

Nantucket is a upscale, charming, and serene island. With plenty of activities and sights, this is a small town worth visiting. With stunning beauty, Nantucket attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food. See Nantucket travel costs.

Memphis and Nantucket: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for shopping
  • Less popular with couples
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Nice resorts
  • Popular beach
  • Scenic old town
  • Good for hiking
  • Fun shopping
  • Known for its beauty
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Small town charm
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with backpackers


Is there more to do in Memphis or Nantucket?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Nantucket than Memphis, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Nantucket is better known for its food, resorts, beaches, historical sights, hiking, shopping, small town charm, and impressive beauty, while Memphis is more popular for its nightlife, music, and big city activities. Nantucket is more touristy than Memphis and is known for its pristine beaches, upscale atmosphere, and history of whaling. Also, Nantucket is famous for Great Point Lighthouse. Memphis is well known for its influential music scene and its southern barbecue.

How is Memphis different from Nantucket?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Memphis
Nantucket

You'll find a number of notable museums and attractions in both Nantucket 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.

Nantucket is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. There are several museums around town that educate visitors on the island's whaling history and maritime past.


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

Memphis
Nantucket

Nantucket is a world-class destination for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Memphis is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Known for it's food and restaurant scene, Nantucket is always at the top of any foodie's travel list. Upscale eateries where you can look out on the water make dining on this island a true experience. There are raw bars, seafood restaurants, and local cafes with elaborate salads and duck carnitas. Dishes usually use the highest quality fresh ingredients and chefs bring their "A game" with every customer.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Memphis makes for a great culinary experience. 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.

Is Memphis or Nantucket Better for Nightlife?

Memphis
Nantucket

Memphis is a great city for nightlife. Also, Nantucket is not as popular, but is still a nice island for nightlife and partying.

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.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Nantucket. You'll find a number of bars and a lively singles scene in town. There's also live music and a laid back but active atmosphere in the evening.

Is Memphis or Nantucket Better for Music?

Memphis
Nantucket

Memphis is renowned for live music. However, Nantucket is not a live music destination.

Memphis is known as a music capital 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.

Nantucket is not a live music destination.


Is Memphis or Nantucket Better for Resorts?

Memphis
Nantucket

Nantucket is a great island for its luxury resorts. However, Memphis is not a resort destination.

Nantucket is a popular resort destination that attracts visitors from everywhere. Luxury resorts and upscale inns offer guests a relaxed setting with oceanfront views and family-friendly activities.

Memphis is not a resort destination.

Is Memphis or Nantucket Better for Beaches?

Memphis
Nantucket

Nantucket is a great island for the beach. However, Memphis is not a beach destination.

You'll have a great beach vacation in Nantucket. You'll find the calmest water at the northern beaches, and cooler water with rougher surf to the south. Many of the beaches are accessible from town, but parking can be limited. There are both public and private beaches, each with beautiful settings and relaxing vibes.

Memphis is not a beach destination.

Is Memphis or Nantucket Better for its Old Town?

Memphis
Nantucket

Nantucket is a great island for its historic old town charm. However, Memphis does not have a historic old town.

Many visitors go to Nantucket to see the historical old town. The Historic District is filled with New England charm, cobblestone streets, and upscale boutiques. There are many great restaurants and a lot of historic character.

Memphis does not have a historic old town.


Is Memphis or Nantucket Better for Hiking?

Memphis
Nantucket

Nantucket is a great island for hiking. However, Memphis is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors go to Nantucket for the hiking trails. The island is easy to explore on foot, and its covered with hiking trails that follow the serene coastline or take you through forests, bogs, and marshland.

Memphis is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Memphis or Nantucket?

Memphis
Nantucket

Nantucket is a great island for its shopping areas. However, Memphis is not known for shopping.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in Nantucket. The Historic District is filled with boutiques, art galleries, and upscale shops. It's the perfect place to spend an afternoon wandering around and shopping.

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 Nantucket More Beautiful?

Memphis
Nantucket

Nantucket is a great island for its scenery and beauty. However, Memphis is not a destination known for its beauty.

With stunning beauty, Nantucket attracts visitors from all around. Natural beauty and charming character make this a picturesque destination.

Memphis is not a destination known for its beauty.


Is Memphis or Nantucket Better for Families?

Memphis
Nantucket

Nantucket is a great island 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 Nantucket. There's a calm beach that's perfect for kids as well as quaint ice cream shops and plenty of New England charm. The town is also filled with hiking and biking trails.

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 Nantucket Better for Couples?

Memphis
Nantucket

Nantucket is a world-class destination for couples. Also, Memphis is not as popular, but is still a nice city for romance.

Nantucket has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. The New England charm, natural beauty, and relaxing coastal atmosphere make this a perfect romantic destination. There are also many romantic places to stay and great local restaurants.

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 Nantucket Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Memphis
Nantucket

Memphis is very good for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Nantucket is not known for backpackers.

Memphis is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. There are a couple of hostels and plenty of live music that make this a popular stop off for young travelers.

Nantucket is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. It's known for its upscale atmosphere that isn't particularly accommodating for backpackers.


Is Memphis or Nantucket Better for Students?

Memphis
Nantucket

Memphis is very good for its student-friendly activities. However, Nantucket 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.

Nantucket is not popular with students.

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

Memphis
Nantucket

Nantucket is a nice place to visit for times when you don't have a car. However, Memphis is not known for its public transit.

While Nantucket offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There are shuttle buses around the island that operate with greater frequency during the summer months.

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

Is Memphis or Nantucket a more walkable city?

Memphis
Nantucket

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

Nantucket is a very walkable destination. The town is very walkable and parking can be challenging, so it's best to leave your car in the ferry parking lot.

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 Nantucket Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Nantucket or Memphis?

How long in Memphis or Nantucket?

It's fun to spend time in either Memphis or Nantucket. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Nantucket due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Memphis, and 2-4 days is enough time in Nantucket.

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

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


  • How many days in Memphis or Nantucket? Ideal Length of Stay
    Memphis 2-3 
    Nantucket 2-4

One day in Memphis or Nantucket?

You'll find food and museums around the city of Memphis. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Nantucket is a small town with plenty to do. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. One reason most visitors come is for the food. This island 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 Nantucket?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the creative destination of Memphis. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Nantucket might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One reason most visitors come is for the food. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Nantucket has to offer.

Five days in Memphis or Nantucket?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and live music when visiting the laid-back city of Memphis. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Most people head to the area for the live music. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Nantucket is a great place to explore. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. 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 Nantucket?

Memphis is a popular choice for travelers. 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 will give you the chance to have new experiences.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Nantucket. Since Nantucket is a small town, it's easily explored when your time is limited. One reason most visitors come is for the food. It's also a relaxing resort destination. 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.


Which place is cheaper, Nantucket or Memphis?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations. These travel costs come from the actual spending of real travelers.

  • Memphis Prices
    USA Prices
    Nantucket Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Memphis $199
    Nantucket $409

The average daily cost (per person) in Memphis is $199, while the average daily cost in Nantucket is $409. 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 Memphis and Nantucket in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Memphis $84
    Nantucket $237
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Memphis $168
    Nantucket $474
Compare Hotels in Memphis and Nantucket

Looking for a hotel in Memphis or Nantucket? 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 Memphis


Hotels in Nantucket


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: Memphis Hotel Prices and Nantucket Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Memphis $59
    Nantucket $47

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Memphis

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

  • Memphis Airport (MEM) to Memphis City - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $171
  • Private Arrival Transfer from Memphis Airport MEM: $72
  • Private Departure Transfer to Memphis Airport MEM: $72
  • Memphis Airport Transfers: $60

Is it cheaper to fly into Memphis or Nantucket?

Prices for flights to both Nantucket and Memphis 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
    Memphis $74
    Nantucket $141
Typical Food Prices in Memphis

Here are some examples of typical meal expenses from previous travelers to Memphis:


  • Baskin Robins (for 2)
    $6.00

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Memphis

For Memphis, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Taste of Downtown Memphis Food Tour: $75

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Memphis $45
    Nantucket $34

Tours and Activities in Memphis

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

  • 2.5 Hours Essence of Memphis African American History Tour: $88
  • A Self Guided Walking Tour of Brews, Blues and BBQ in Memphis: $15
  • Beale Street Experience Audio App Self Guided Walking Tour: $7.75
  • Beale Street Guided Walking Tour: $22
  • Elvis Presley's Childhood Home Sightseeing Daytrip from Memphis: $102
  • From Elvis Presley Birthplace and Park Guided Tour: $215
  • From Official Elvis Birthplace Tour of Tupelo: $102
  • Guided Memphis City Tour that includes Riverboat Cruise: $85
  • Haunted Memphis Walking Ghost Tour: $30
  • Historic Memphis Guided Walking Tour: Memphis Beyond Beale: $33
  • Memphis 2-Hour Historic Walking Tour: Beyond Beale: $33
  • Memphis 3.5h Walking Tour with Beale Street & Sun Studio: $175

Tours and Activities in Nantucket

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

  • Beyond the Cobblestones Self Guided Audio Tour of Nantucket: $9.99
  • Beyond the Cobblestones Self Guided Walking Tour of Nantucket: $9.99
  • Discover Nantucket Self-Guided Biking or Driving Tour: $13
  • Historical Tour of Nantucket: $57
  • Nantucket Coast to Coast Self-Guided Biking or Driving Tour: $13
  • Downtown Walking Tour: $120
  • Guided Bike Tour: $160
  • Guided Scenic Island Driving Tour: $160
  • Historical Landmarks Sightseeing Bus Tour: $53

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Memphis $26
    Nantucket $35

Sample the Local Flavors in Memphis

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Memphis:

  • Drinking Spirits with Spirits Haunted Pub Crawl: $27
  • Haunted Pub Crawl in Memphis: $31
  • Guided Bar Crawl on a Pedal Bike: $40
  • Memphis Signature Guided Brewery Tour: $69
  • Signature Guided Brewery Tour: $69
  • #1 Way To See Beale Street, Bar Crawl and Murals: $430


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Memphis and Nantucket, we can see that Nantucket is more expensive. And not only is Memphis much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Memphis would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Memphis 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 Nantucket would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Nantucket than you might in Memphis.

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


Which is Bigger, Memphis or Nantucket?

Memphis has a larger population, and is about 40 times larger than the population of Nantucket. When comparing the sizes of Memphis and Nantucket, 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 Nantucket?

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 Nantucket in the Summer?

Both Nantucket and Memphis are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Memphis for the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Nantucket because of the beaches, the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Memphis is a little warmer than Nantucket. Typically, the summer temperatures in Memphis in July average around 83°F (29°C), and Nantucket averages at about 68°F (20°C).

In July, Memphis usually receives less rain than Nantucket. Memphis gets 2.9 inches (73 mm) of rain, while Nantucket receives 3.8 inches (96 mm) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Memphis 83°F (29°C) 
    Nantucket 68°F (20°C)

Should I visit Memphis or Nantucket in the Autumn?

Both Nantucket and Memphis during the autumn are popular places to visit. The autumn months attract visitors to Memphis because of the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the music scene. Also, the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Nantucket this time of year.

In October, Memphis is generally much warmer than Nantucket. Daily temperatures in Memphis average around 64°F (18°C), and Nantucket fluctuates around 53°F (12°C).

Nantucket gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Memphis usually gets less rain in October than Nantucket. Memphis gets 1.6 inches (41 mm) of rain, while Nantucket receives 4.4 inches (111 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Memphis 64°F (18°C) 
    Nantucket 53°F (12°C)

Should I visit Memphis or Nantucket in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Memphis and Nantucket. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Memphis this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Nantucket for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Nantucket. It's quite cold in Memphis in the winter. Memphis is much warmer than Nantucket in the winter. The daily temperature in Memphis averages around 40°F (5°C) in January, and Nantucket fluctuates around 31°F (-0°C).

Nantucket receives a lot of rain in the winter. In January, Memphis usually receives less rain than Nantucket. Memphis gets 2.4 inches (62 mm) of rain, while Nantucket receives 4.2 inches (106 mm) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Memphis 40°F (5°C) 
    Nantucket 31°F (-0°C)

Should I visit Memphis or Nantucket in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Memphis as well as Nantucket. Many travelers come to Memphis for the activities around the city. Also, many visitors come to Nantucket in the spring for the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty.

In the spring, Memphis is much warmer than Nantucket. Typically, the spring temperatures in Memphis in April average around 64°F (18°C), and Nantucket averages at about 45°F (7°C).

It's quite rainy in Nantucket. Memphis receives a lot of rain in the spring. Memphis usually gets around the same amount of rain in April as Nantucket. Memphis gets 4.3 inches (109 mm) of rain, while Nantucket receives 4.1 inches (103 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Memphis 64°F (18°C) 
    Nantucket 45°F (7°C)

Typical Weather for Nantucket and Memphis

Memphis Nantucket
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 40°F (5°C) 2.4 inches (62 mm) 31°F (-0°C) 4.2 inches (106 mm)
Feb 45°F (7°C) 3.3 inches (85 mm) 32°F (-0°C) 4.6 inches (117 mm)
Mar 54°F (12°C) 4.2 inches (106 mm) 38°F (3°C) 4 inches (102 mm)
Apr 64°F (18°C) 4.3 inches (109 mm) 45°F (7°C) 4.1 inches (103 mm)
May 72°F (22°C) 3.3 inches (84 mm) 53°F (12°C) 3.9 inches (99 mm)
Jun 80°F (27°C) 2.3 inches (58 mm) 62°F (17°C) 3.6 inches (91 mm)
Jul 83°F (29°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm) 68°F (20°C) 3.8 inches (96 mm)
Aug 82°F (28°C) 2.8 inches (72 mm) 68°F (20°C) 3.1 inches (78 mm)
Sep 76°F (24°C) 2.6 inches (66 mm) 62°F (17°C) 4.2 inches (106 mm)
Oct 64°F (18°C) 1.6 inches (41 mm) 53°F (12°C) 4.4 inches (111 mm)
Nov 54°F (12°C) 2.6 inches (65 mm) 46°F (8°C) 3.8 inches (96 mm)
Dec 44°F (7°C) 4.1 inches (105 mm) 36°F (2°C) 4.5 inches (115 mm)