A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Memphis vs. Vernon for Food, Nightlife, Attractions, and Families

Should you visit Memphis or Vernon?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Memphis or Vernon, 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. Other popular activities here include nightlife, live music, and food. See Memphis travel costs.

Vernon

Vernon is a quiet, peaceful, and relaxing town. It's also popular because of the museums, food, and hiking. See Vernon travel costs.

Memphis and Vernon: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less popular with backpackers


Is there more to do in Memphis or Vernon?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Memphis. Although Memphis and Vernon are popular destinations, Memphis has more sights and attractions for tourists. Memphis is very popular for its food, nightlife, music, and big city activities, while Vernon attracts visitors for its hiking and shopping. Vernon is more touristy than Memphis and is popular for its surrounding valley with lakes and hiking trails. 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 Vernon?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Memphis
Vernon

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

Vernon is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. There are local galleries and museums that offer information on the region's history and culture. You can visit the Canadian Wildlife Museum, the Caetani Center, the Museum and Archives of Vernon, the Paddlewheel Park Stationhouse Museum, and the Vernon Public Art Gallery.


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

Memphis
Vernon

Memphis is a well-known place for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Vernon is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its restaurants.

Dining out in Memphis is an experience not to be missed. 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.

There are plenty of up and coming restaurants around Vernon. The region is known for its vineyards and wineries and many of the local restaurants have been around for generations. The food is often locally produced and prepared with traditional recipes.

Is Memphis or Vernon Better for Nightlife?

Memphis
Vernon

Memphis is a well-known place for its evening party scene. However, Vernon is not a good town for nightlife.

Memphis offers plenty to do in the evening. 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.

Those looking for nightlife will find a few places to hang out in Vernon. The town gets very quiet in the evenings, so you won't find much of a nightlife scene.

Is Memphis or Vernon Better for Music?

Memphis
Vernon

Memphis is terrific for its music scene. However, Vernon is not a live music destination.

In Memphis you'll find nightly musicians performing at a variety of venues. 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.

Vernon is not a live music destination.


Is Memphis or Vernon Better for Hiking?

Memphis
Vernon

Vernon is a great town for hiking. However, Memphis is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors go to Vernon for the hiking trails. The surrounding valley has more than 300 kilometers of hiking trails. They run along pristine lakes, pass by granite rock formations, and take you to impressive viewpoints.

Memphis is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Memphis or Vernon?

Memphis
Vernon

Vernon is a nice place to visit for its shopping areas. However, Memphis is not known for shopping.

Vernon has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. There are a number of boutique shops that are fun to explore in the downtown area.

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 Vernon Better for Families?

Memphis
Vernon

Memphis and Vernon are both nice destinations for the whole family.

Memphis offers lots of family activities. The town has some great activities for kids including a zoo, several museums, petting farms, and a botanical garden.

Vernon is a family-friendly place to visit. There are biking and hiking trails as well as other outdoor activities. You can also visit the Allan Brooks Nature Center or the Rock Garden Climbing Center.


Is Memphis or Vernon Better for Couples?

Memphis
Vernon

Memphis and Vernon are both nice to visit as a couple.

Memphis is a good city for couples to visit. 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.

Vernon is a nice destination for couples. It offers a peaceful getaway for couples. You can visit the Okanagan wineries or enjoy one of the many hiking trails. There are also nice restaurants to try.

Is Memphis or Vernon Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Memphis
Vernon

Memphis is a nice place to visit for backpackers. However, Vernon is not a good town for backpackers and budget travelers.

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.

Vernon is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. There is a hostel in town, but this isn't a popular destination for backpackers.

Is Memphis or Vernon Better for Students?

Memphis
Vernon

Memphis is a nice place to visit for students. However, Vernon is not popular with students.

Memphis is a good city to visit for students. The live music scene and great food options make this is a fun town for students.

Vernon is not popular with students.


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

Memphis
Vernon

Memphis and Vernon 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 Vernon. There is a bus system, but it's better not to rely on it.

Is Memphis or Vernon a more walkable city?

Memphis
Vernon

Memphis is a nice place to visit for its ease of walking around. However, Vernon is not a good town for its 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.

Vernon is generally not a very walkable city. You'll really want to have a car to make the most of your time here.

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

Should I spend more time in Vernon or Memphis?

How long in Memphis or Vernon?

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

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

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

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


  • How many days in Memphis or Vernon? Ideal Length of Stay
    Memphis 2-3 
    Vernon 1-3

One day in Memphis or Vernon?

Many travelers enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the destination of Memphis. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

In Vernon, you'll find museums and food. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. This town 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 Vernon?

Memphis is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. Don't miss the live music, as that's what most people do. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

In Vernon, you'll find food and shopping. 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. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Vernon has to offer.

Five days in Memphis or Vernon?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Memphis. Don't miss the live music, as that's what most people do. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Vernon is a great place to explore. Hikers are also drawn to this area. 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 Vernon?

Travelers enjoy the food and museums when visiting the creative destination of Memphis. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Vernon. Many people enjoy the museums and food when visiting Vernon. 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.


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 Coach Bus Tours in Canada, and The Best Adventure Tours to Canada.


Which place is cheaper, Vernon 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
    Vernon Prices
    Canada Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Memphis $199
    Vernon $49

The average daily cost (per person) in Memphis is $199, while the average daily cost in Vernon is $49. 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 Vernon in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Memphis $84
    Vernon $4.81
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Memphis $168
    Vernon $9.62
Compare Hotels in Memphis and Vernon

Looking for a hotel in Memphis or Vernon? 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 Vernon


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 Vernon Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Memphis $59
    Vernon -

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Memphis

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

  • Memphis Airport Transfers: $60
  • Private Departure Transfer to Memphis Airport MEM: $72
  • Private Arrival Transfer from Memphis Airport MEM: $72
  • Memphis Airport Private Black Car Transfer: $149
  • Memphis Airport (MEM) to Memphis City - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $171

Is it cheaper to fly into Memphis or Vernon?

Prices for flights to both Vernon 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
    Vernon $43
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
    Vernon -

Tours and Activities in Memphis

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

  • Memphis Grizzlies Basketball Game Ticket: $3.27
  • Memphis Grizzlies Basketball Game Ticket at FedExForum: $3.36
  • Beale Street Experience Audio App Self Guided Walking Tour: $7.75
  • Memphis Music Hall of Fame Admission Ticket: $8.00
  • Memphis Civil Rights Smartphone Guided Walking Tour: $9.75
  • Entry Ticket to the Edge Motor Museum: $10
  • Memphis Botanic Garden Entry Ticket: $12
  • A Self Guided Walking Tour of Brews, Blues and BBQ in Memphis: $15
  • Woodruff-Fontaine House Museum Admission Ticket in Memphis: $15
  • Overton Park Shell Guided Backstage History Experience Tour: $16
  • Memphis Self Guided Driving Audio Tour: $17
  • Beale Street Guided Walking Tour: $22

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Memphis $26
    Vernon $13

Sample the Local Flavors in Memphis

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

  • Memphis Tennessee Bar Crawl Brews and Blues Bar Crawl: $15
  • 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 Vernon, we can see that Memphis is more expensive. And not only is Vernon much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Vernon would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Vernon 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 Memphis would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Memphis than you might in Vernon.

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


Which is Bigger, Memphis or Vernon?

Memphis has a larger population, and is about 10 times larger than the population of Vernon. When comparing the sizes of Memphis and Vernon, 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 Vernon?

Both places have a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. As both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Memphis or Vernon in the Summer?

Both Vernon and Memphis during the summer are popular places to visit. The summer months attract visitors to Memphis because of the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, the hiking and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Vernon this time of year.

Memphis is a little warmer than Vernon in the summer. The daily temperature in Memphis averages around 83°F (29°C) in July, and Vernon fluctuates around 23°C (73°F).

Memphis usually gets more rain in July than Vernon. Memphis gets 2.9 inches (73 mm) of rain, while Vernon receives 28 mm (1.1 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Memphis 83°F (29°C) 
    Vernon 23°C (73°F)

Should I visit Memphis or Vernon in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Memphis and Vernon. The city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the music scene are the main draw to Memphis this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Vernon for the hiking trails and the shopping scene.

In the autumn, Memphis is much warmer than Vernon. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Memphis in October average around 64°F (18°C), and Vernon averages at about 11°C (51°F).

In October, Memphis usually receives more rain than Vernon. Memphis gets 1.6 inches (41 mm) of rain, while Vernon receives 14 mm (0.6 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Memphis 64°F (18°C) 
    Vernon 11°C (51°F)

Should I visit Memphis or Vernon in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Memphis as well as Vernon. Many travelers come to Memphis for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Vernon in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Vernon can get quite cold in the winter. Be prepared for some very cold days in Memphis. In January, Memphis is generally much warmer than Vernon. Daily temperatures in Memphis average around 40°F (5°C), and Vernon fluctuates around -3°C (27°F).

Memphis usually gets more rain in January than Vernon. Memphis gets 2.4 inches (62 mm) of rain, while Vernon receives 26 mm (1 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Memphis 40°F (5°C) 
    Vernon -3°C (27°F)

Should I visit Memphis or Vernon in the Spring?

Both Vernon and Memphis are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Memphis in the spring for the activities around the city.

Memphis is much warmer than Vernon in the spring. The daily temperature in Memphis averages around 64°F (18°C) in April, and Vernon fluctuates around 12°C (53°F).

It's quite rainy in Memphis. In April, Memphis usually receives more rain than Vernon. Memphis gets 4.3 inches (109 mm) of rain, while Vernon receives 15 mm (0.6 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Memphis 64°F (18°C) 
    Vernon 12°C (53°F)

Typical Weather for Vernon and Memphis

Memphis Vernon
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 40°F (5°C) 2.4 inches (62 mm) -3°C (27°F) 26 mm (1 in)
Feb 45°F (7°C) 3.3 inches (85 mm) 2°C (35°F) 14 mm (0.6 in)
Mar 54°F (12°C) 4.2 inches (106 mm) 7°C (44°F) 10 mm (0.4 in)
Apr 64°F (18°C) 4.3 inches (109 mm) 12°C (53°F) 15 mm (0.6 in)
May 72°F (22°C) 3.3 inches (84 mm) 16°C (61°F) 22 mm (0.9 in)
Jun 80°F (27°C) 2.3 inches (58 mm) 21°C (69°F) 29 mm (1.1 in)
Jul 83°F (29°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm) 23°C (73°F) 28 mm (1.1 in)
Aug 82°F (28°C) 2.8 inches (72 mm) 23°C (73°F) 30 mm (1.2 in)
Sep 76°F (24°C) 2.6 inches (66 mm) 17°C (63°F) 28 mm (1.1 in)
Oct 64°F (18°C) 1.6 inches (41 mm) 11°C (51°F) 14 mm (0.6 in)
Nov 54°F (12°C) 2.6 inches (65 mm) 4°C (39°F) 22 mm (0.9 in)
Dec 44°F (7°C) 4.1 inches (105 mm) -1°C (30°F) 33 mm (1.3 in)