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

Should you visit Memphis or Whistler?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Memphis or Whistler, 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. It's also known for nightlife, live music, and food. See Memphis travel costs.

Whistler

Whistler is a charming, adventurous, and outdoorsy village. With fun activities and sights, this is a small town worth visiting. With stunning beauty, Whistler attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the shopping, skiing, and nightlife. See Whistler travel costs.

Memphis and Whistler: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
Things to Consider
  • Less family-friendly
Pros
  • Popular for skiing
  • Active nightlife
  • Nice resorts
  • Good for hiking
  • Known for its beauty
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights


Is there more to do in Memphis or Whistler?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Memphis than Whistler, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Memphis is better known for its museums and attractions, music, and big city activities, while Whistler is more popular for its skiing, resorts, hiking, shopping, small town charm, and impressive beauty. Whistler is more touristy than Memphis and is popular for its world renowned skiing and snowboarding. Memphis is well known for its influential music scene and its southern barbecue. Also, Memphis is famous for Elvis Presley's Graceland.

How is Memphis different from Whistler?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Memphis or Whistler Better for Skiing?

Memphis
Whistler

Whistler is a world-class destination for skiing. However, Memphis is not a skiing destination.

The snow ski experience you'll have in Whistler is among the best in the world. Whistler is the largest ski resort in North America. It covers a vast area that includes two peaks - Whistler and Blackcomb. The slopes are connected by lifts and gondolas and there are options for every level, from beginner to expert.

Memphis is not a skiing destination.


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

Memphis
Whistler

Memphis is a nice place to visit for its sights and museums. However, Whistler is not a good village for its museums and history.

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.

While most people don't head to Whistler specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. There is a local museum where you can learn about the areas culture and heritage.

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

Memphis
Whistler

Foodies will find both Memphis and Whistler both to be superb 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, Whistler makes for a great culinary experience. There are many great restaurants and pubs that serve local dishes like Whistler herring, meatloaf, and Artic char fish. There are casual eateries as well as fine dining with upscale cuisine.

Is Memphis or Whistler Better for Nightlife?

Memphis
Whistler

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

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.

Whistler offers plenty to do in the evening. After a day on the slopes, you can enjoy the lively nightlife that includes après ski bars, nightclubs, and late night parties.


Is Memphis or Whistler Better for Music?

Memphis
Whistler

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

Memphis is a world class music destination. 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.

Whistler is not a live music destination.

Is Memphis or Whistler Better for Resorts?

Memphis
Whistler

Whistler is a great village for its luxury resorts. However, Memphis is not a resort destination.

Whistler is a popular resort destination that attracts visitors from everywhere. There's a large selection of resorts that you can choose from. Many have pools and hot tubs and range from romantic to family-friendly.

Memphis is not a resort destination.

Is Memphis or Whistler Better for Hiking?

Memphis
Whistler

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

Known for its hiking, Whistler draws a crowd to experience the nature and the trails. During the warmer seasons there are miles of hiking trails that take you through both Whistler and Blackcomb Mountains. Many trails are accessible by gondola and you'll find great views and stunning vistas. Trails range from short family-friendly options to strenuous and adventurous routes.

Memphis is not a hiking destination.


Is the Shopping Better in Memphis or Whistler?

Memphis
Whistler

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

Whistler has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. The village offers great shopping where you can pick up local items or any ski gear you may have forgotten.

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 Whistler More Beautiful?

Memphis
Whistler

Whistler is a great village for its scenery and beauty. However, Memphis is not a destination known for its beauty.

With stunning beauty, Whistler attracts visitors from all around. The town sits in a valley that is surrounded by stunning mountains and impressive glaciers.

Memphis is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Memphis or Whistler Better for Families?

Memphis
Whistler

Whistler 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.

Whistler is an amazing family-friendly village to visit. Kids will love the winter activities like skiing, dog sledding, and bobsledding. There's also an ice skating rink, climbing gym, and tons of kid-friendly restaurants.

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 Whistler Better for Couples?

Memphis
Whistler

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

Whistler is a great village if you're traveling as a couple. Couples who enjoy an adventure will love the year-round outdoor sports. There are also romantic spas, fine dining, and scenic gondola rides.

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 Whistler Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Memphis
Whistler

Whistler is a great village 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 Whistler. There are several hostels in the area that are perfect for backpackers and budget travelers.

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 Whistler Better for Students?

Memphis
Whistler

Memphis is a nice place to visit for students. However, Whistler 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.

Whistler is not popular with students.


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

Memphis
Whistler

Memphis and Whistler both offer respectable 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 Whistler. There's a bus system that connects the town to other nearby neighborhoods.

Is Memphis or Whistler a more walkable city?

Memphis
Whistler

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

Whistler is a very walkable destination. It's a compact town that's easy to explore 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 Whistler Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Whistler or Memphis?

How long in Memphis or Whistler?

In either Memphis or Whistler, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Whistler than Memphis because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Memphis, and 3-5 days is enough time in Whistler.

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

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

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


  • How many days in Memphis or Whistler? Ideal Length of Stay
    Memphis 2-3 
    Whistler 3-5

One day in Memphis or Whistler?

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 Whistler, you'll find skiing and nightlife. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. This village 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 Whistler?

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 Whistler, you'll find nightlife 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. 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 Whistler?

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.

Whistler is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Whistler has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

A week in Memphis or Whistler?

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 Whistler. Many people enjoy the shopping and skiing when visiting Whistler. 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 Contiki Tours to Canada, and The Best G Adventures Tours to Canada.


Which place is cheaper, Whistler 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
    Whistler Prices
    Canada Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Memphis $199
    Whistler $146

The average daily cost (per person) in Memphis is $199, while the average daily cost in Whistler is $146. 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 Whistler in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Memphis $84
    Whistler $65
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Memphis $168
    Whistler $130
Compare Hotels in Memphis and Whistler

Looking for a hotel in Memphis or Whistler? 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 Whistler


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 Whistler Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Memphis $59
    Whistler $20

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 (MEM) to Memphis City - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $171

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Whistler

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Whistler:

  • Private Transfer from Richmond BC to Whistler: $684
  • Private Transfer from Whistler to Downtown Vancouver: $560
  • Vancouver Airport Private Transfer to Whistler: $133

Is it cheaper to fly into Memphis or Whistler?

Prices for flights to both Whistler 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
    Whistler $52
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

Typical Food Prices in Whistler

Some typical examples of dining costs in Whistler are as follows:


  • Coffee at Starbucks
    $12
  • Tim Hortons Breakfast
    $12
  • Coffee at Timmy's
    $3.63

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Whistler

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Whistler.

  • Finer Things: 4-Course Dinner Tour in Whistler: $121
  • Finer Things Dinner Tour in Whistler: $155

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Memphis $45
    Whistler $78

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
  • Memphis Self Guided Driving Audio Tour: $17
  • 1-Hour Beale Street Guided Walking Tour: $22
  • Beale Street Guided Walking Tour: $22

Typical Entertainment Prices in Whistler

Some typical examples of activities, tours, and entrance ticket prices in Whistler are as follows:


  • Driving Range
    $15

Tours and Activities in Whistler

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Whistler are as follows:

  • 2 Hour Late Afternoon Winter Zipline Adventure: $124
  • 2 Hour Wilderness Adventure Snowmobile Tour in Whistler: $199
  • Audain Art Museum Admission Ticket: $17
  • Bear Safari 4x4 Adventure: $147
  • Call of the Wild ATV Tour: $162
  • Family Snowmobile Tour in Whistler: $199
  • From Vancouver: Shannon Falls and Whistler Sightseeing Tour: $179
  • Full Day Ice Fishing Tour: $246
  • Guided Fishing Adventure in Whistler: $163
  • Ice Fishing Adventure in Whistler: $163
  • Mountain Breeze Tour - Mountain E Bike - Whistler Marmot Activity: $104
  • One Hour Axe Throwing Guided Experience in Whistler: $33

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Memphis $26
    Whistler $8.72

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 Whistler, we can see that Memphis is more expensive. And not only is Whistler much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Whistler would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Whistler 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 Whistler.

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


Which is Bigger, Memphis or Whistler?

Memphis has a larger population, and is about 60 times larger than the population of Whistler. When comparing the sizes of Memphis and Whistler, 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 Whistler?

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 Whistler in the Summer?

Both Whistler 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, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Whistler this time of year.

In the summer, Memphis is much warmer than Whistler. Typically, the summer temperatures in Memphis in July average around 83°F (29°C), and Whistler averages at about 18°C (64°F).

In Whistler, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Memphis. In the summer, Memphis often gets more sunshine than Whistler. Memphis gets 328 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Whistler receives 296 hours of full sun.

Memphis usually gets more rain in July than Whistler. Memphis gets 2.9 inches (73 mm) of rain, while Whistler receives 54 mm (2.1 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Memphis 83°F (29°C) 
    Whistler 18°C (64°F)

Should I visit Memphis or Whistler in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Memphis and Whistler. 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 Whistler for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Memphis is generally much warmer than Whistler. Daily temperatures in Memphis average around 64°F (18°C), and Whistler fluctuates around 11°C (51°F).

In Memphis, it's very sunny this time of the year. Memphis usually receives more sunshine than Whistler during autumn. Memphis gets 240 hours of sunny skies, while Whistler receives 124 hours of full sun in the autumn.

Whistler receives a lot of rain in the autumn. In October, Memphis usually receives less rain than Whistler. Memphis gets 1.6 inches (41 mm) of rain, while Whistler receives 164 mm (6.5 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


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

Should I visit Memphis or Whistler in the Winter?

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

Whistler can get quite cold in the winter. Be prepared for some very cold days in Memphis. Memphis is around the same temperature as Whistler in the winter. The daily temperature in Memphis averages around 40°F (5°C) in January, and Whistler fluctuates around 4°C (40°F).

In the winter, Memphis often gets more sunshine than Whistler. Memphis gets 163 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Whistler receives 55 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Whistler. Memphis usually gets less rain in January than Whistler. Memphis gets 2.4 inches (62 mm) of rain, while Whistler receives 167 mm (6.6 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Memphis 40°F (5°C) 
    Whistler 4°C (40°F)

Should I visit Memphis or Whistler in the Spring?

Both Whistler 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. Also, most visitors come to Whistler for the small town charm and the natural beauty during these months.

In the spring, Memphis is much warmer than Whistler. Typically, the spring temperatures in Memphis in April average around 64°F (18°C), and Whistler averages at about 9°C (49°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Memphis. Memphis usually receives more sunshine than Whistler during spring. Memphis gets 254 hours of sunny skies, while Whistler receives 172 hours of full sun in the spring.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Whistler. It's quite rainy in Memphis. In April, Memphis usually receives around the same amount of rain as Whistler. Memphis gets 4.3 inches (109 mm) of rain, while Whistler receives 110 mm (4.3 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Memphis 64°F (18°C) 
    Whistler 9°C (49°F)

Typical Weather for Whistler and Memphis

Memphis Whistler
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 40°F (5°C) 2.4 inches (62 mm) 4°C (40°F) 167 mm (6.6 in)
Feb 45°F (7°C) 3.3 inches (85 mm) 6°C (42°F) 179 mm (7.1 in)
Mar 54°F (12°C) 4.2 inches (106 mm) 7°C (45°F) 142 mm (5.6 in)
Apr 64°F (18°C) 4.3 inches (109 mm) 9°C (49°F) 110 mm (4.3 in)
May 72°F (22°C) 3.3 inches (84 mm) 13°C (55°F) 81 mm (3.2 in)
Jun 80°F (27°C) 2.3 inches (58 mm) 16°C (60°F) 66 mm (2.6 in)
Jul 83°F (29°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm) 18°C (64°F) 54 mm (2.1 in)
Aug 82°F (28°C) 2.8 inches (72 mm) 18°C (64°F) 45 mm (1.8 in)
Sep 76°F (24°C) 2.6 inches (66 mm) 15°C (59°F) 73 mm (2.9 in)
Oct 64°F (18°C) 1.6 inches (41 mm) 11°C (51°F) 164 mm (6.5 in)
Nov 54°F (12°C) 2.6 inches (65 mm) 7°C (44°F) 234 mm (9.2 in)
Dec 44°F (7°C) 4.1 inches (105 mm) 4°C (40°F) 198 mm (7.8 in)