A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Nags Head vs. Chattanooga for Nightlife, Families, Food, and Couples

Should you visit Nags Head or Chattanooga?

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

Should I visit Nags Head or Chattanooga? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

Nags Head

Other popular activities here include nightlife and food. See Nags Head travel costs.

Chattanooga

Chattanooga is a outdoorsy, thriving, and bustling city. Other reasons to visit include hiking, shopping, and museums. See Chattanooga travel costs.

Nags Head and Chattanooga: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
Things to Consider
  • Public transit not as usable
  • Less walkable
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good for hiking
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good public transit
  • Very walkable
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with backpackers


Is there more to do in Nags Head or Chattanooga?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Chattanooga than Nags Head, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Chattanooga is better known for its museums and attractions, hiking, and shopping, while Nags Head is more popular for its nightlife. Chattanooga is more touristy than Nags Head and is popular for it's hikes, railways, and nearby natural areas. Also, Chattanooga is famous for Rock City. Nags Head is well known for

How is Nags Head different from Chattanooga?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Nags Head or Chattanooga?

Nags Head
Chattanooga

Chattanooga is a popular place for its historical sights. However, Nags Head does not have museums and landmarks.

Chattanooga is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. It's a thriving city and there are a number of museums to explore. The Hunter Museum of American Art is great for art enthusiasts. There's also the Creative Discovery Museum, the Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum, and the 6th Cavalry Museum, as well as several smaller museums that you can visit.

Nags Head does not have museums and landmarks.


Is the Food Better in Nags Head or Chattanooga? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Nags Head
Chattanooga

Picking the best cuisine and restaurants between Nags Head and Chattanooga can be difficult as they are each notable in their own way.

There are plenty of up and coming restaurants around Nags Head. There are a wide variety of seafood restaurants that serve locally caught fish, shrimp, and crabs. Cajon flavors are popular and you'll also find cheese grits at many places.

Visitors will find a budding food and restaurant scene in Chattanooga. There are a growing number of restaurants that range from local dives to fine dining. Fried food is common, but you'll also find Mexican and classic hamburgers. Popular dishes that are local to the area include catfish, southern barbecue, and hush puppies.

Is Nags Head or Chattanooga Better for Nightlife?

Nags Head
Chattanooga

Nags Head is a great destination for its evening party scene. Also, Chattanooga is still popular, but not quite as popular for nightlife.

The people in Nags Head know how to have a good time. You'll find the widest variety of nightlife options in the Outer Banks here. There are a number of bars and clubs around town where you can enjoy a drink or dance late into the night. During the peak summer months there's often live music at many places.

If you're looking for night time activities Chattanooga has a few options to choose from. You'll find plenty of bars and clubs around town. There are also a number of comedy and improv clubs that are fun to check out.

Is Nags Head or Chattanooga Better for Hiking?

Nags Head
Chattanooga

Chattanooga is great for hiking. However, Nags Head is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors go to Chattanooga for the hiking trails. It's proximity to the mountains means that you don't have to go far to find good hiking. Within a half hour of town there are more than 50 trailheads. Lookout Mountain and Signal Mountain are both hiking destinations. Several trails have swimming spots and many pass through nice forests or head to impressive viewpoints.

Nags Head is not a hiking destination.


Is the Shopping Better in Nags Head or Chattanooga?

Nags Head
Chattanooga

Chattanooga is a popular place for shopping. However, Nags Head is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Plenty of visitors enjoy shopping while in Chattanooga. Head downtown for local shops or to the larger malls if you want mainstream stores. Many visitors enjoy antiquing while they're in town, but there are also farmer's markets and thrift stores.

Nags Head is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Nags Head or Chattanooga Better for Families?

Nags Head
Chattanooga

Nags Head is a great destination for its family-friendly activities. Also, Chattanooga is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

Nags Head is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. It makes a wonderful base for the many family-friendly activities in the area. Jockey's Ridge is a fun place to visit with kids. There are also wonderful beaches and many kids enjoying flying kites.

Chattanooga offers lots of family activities. Many people enjoy a visit to the Tennessee Aquarium, which has a touch tank and a butterfly exhibit, among other things. Near downtown, Coolidge Park is a great place for kids to get their energy out. There's also the popular Lookout Mountain Incline Railway as well as many hiking trails in the area.

Is Nags Head or Chattanooga Better for Couples?

Nags Head
Chattanooga

With fun activities for couples, both Nags Head and Chattanooga make for a notable place to visit.

Nags Head is a nice destination for couples. There are great seafood restaurants and a number of activities in the area that are fun for couples.

Chattanooga makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Many couples enjoy staying at a local inn and then dining in a nice restaurant or visiting a winery. There's an eclectic art district to explore as well as horse drawn carriages and plenty of nearby hiking trails.


Is Nags Head or Chattanooga Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Nags Head
Chattanooga

Nags Head is a popular place for backpackers. However, Chattanooga is a city with minimal options for backpackers and budget travelers.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Nags Head. This is one of the more affordable places to stay in the Outer Banks, so it appeals to more budget-oriented travelers.

Chattanooga is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. It's proximity to the mountains and diverse outdoor activities make this an under-rated destination for many backpackers.

Is Nags Head or Chattanooga Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Nags Head
Chattanooga

Chattanooga is great for times when you don't have a car. However, Nags Head is not a good destination for its public transit.

Many visitors rely on the effecient and affordable public transportation in Chattanooga. The city has a convenient and free electric shuttle service. It travels through the downtown and has stops at many points of interest such as the Chattanooga Choo Choo and the Tennessee Aquarium.

Public transit is limited or non-existant in Nags Head. There's no real public transit around town, so you'll need to have your own car.

Is Nags Head or Chattanooga a more walkable city?

Nags Head
Chattanooga

Chattanooga is great for its walkability. However, Nags Head is not a good destination for its high level of walkability.

Chattanooga is very walkable. The city has put a lot of effort into improving its walkability. In particular, the downtown is nice to explore on foot.

Nags Head is generally not very walkable. This is one of the least walkable towns in the Outer Banks. You'll need a car to reach most restaurants and other activities in the area.


Should I spend more time in Chattanooga or Nags Head?

How long in Nags Head or Chattanooga?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Nags Head and Chattanooga. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Nags Head than in Chattanooga. Usually, 4-7 days is a good amount of time for Nags Head, and 2-3 days is enough time in Chattanooga.

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

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


  • How many days in Nags Head or Chattanooga? Ideal Length of Stay
    Nags Head 4-7 
    Chattanooga 2-3

One day in Nags Head or Chattanooga?

Visitors enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the activity-filled of Nags Head. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

You'll find shopping and museums around the city of Chattanooga. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. 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.

A weekend in Nags Head or Chattanooga?

Visitors enjoy the food and nightlife when visiting the laid-back destination of Nags Head. This offers something for everyone. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

You'll find museums and nightlife around the outdoorsy destination of Chattanooga. Hikers are also drawn to this area. 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.

Five days in Nags Head or Chattanooga?

Visitors enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the activity-filled of Nags Head. Many people spend five days here.If you enjoy all that's offered here, then five days is just the right amount of time to spend here. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the bustling city of Chattanooga. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.


A week in Nags Head or Chattanooga?

Visitors enjoy the food and nightlife when visiting the destination of Nags Head. Anyone can find something fun to do here. This is a popular place to visit for one week. In one week, you should have a good grasp of this .

Chattanooga is a popular choice for travelers. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. 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.


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


Which place is cheaper, Chattanooga or Nags Head?

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

  • Nags Head Prices
    USA Prices
    Chattanooga Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Nags Head $179
    Chattanooga $225

The average daily cost (per person) in Nags Head is $179, while the average daily cost in Chattanooga is $225. 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 Nags Head and Chattanooga in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Nags Head $80
    Chattanooga $92
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Nags Head $160
    Chattanooga $184
Compare Hotels in Nags Head and Chattanooga

Looking for a hotel in Nags Head or Chattanooga? 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 Nags Head


Hotels in Chattanooga


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: Nags Head Hotel Prices and Chattanooga Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Nags Head $40
    Chattanooga $35

Typical Local Transportation Prices in Chattanooga

Here are some examples of typical transportation prices from actual travelers in Chattanooga:


  • Chattanooga Zoo (for 2)
    $16

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Chattanooga

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Chattanooga:

  • Private One Way Transfer from/to Chattanooga Airport and Hotels: $185

Is it cheaper to fly into Nags Head or Chattanooga?

Prices for flights to both Chattanooga and Nags Head 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
    Nags Head $71
    Chattanooga $103

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Chattanooga

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

  • Historic Southside Food Tour in Chattanooga: $99
  • Downtown Chattanooga Food Tour: $119
  • ChattaBrunch Food Tour: $119
  • ChattaBrunch Food Tour: $119
  • Southside Food Tour with Lunch: $129
  • Downtown Food Tour with 3-4 Tastings: $139

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Nags Head $14
    Chattanooga $52

Tours and Activities in Nags Head

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

  • Cape Hatteras National Seashore Self-Guided Audio Driving Tour: $15
  • Wright Brothers Carolina Dunes Self-Guided Driving Audio Tour: $15
  • Self-Guided Audio Driving Tour in Outer Banks: $17
  • Outer Banks Self-Guided Driving Audio Tour: $25
  • OBX Ghost Tours- The Original Ghost Tour of the Outer Banks: $25
  • OBX Ghost Tours: Lighthouse Wraiths & Dune Shadows: $26
  • Kitty Hawk Maritime Forest Kayak Tour: $49
  • Nags Head Kayak Tour: $55
  • Alligator River Kayak Adventure: $59
  • Cape Hatteras Kayak Adventure in Rodanthe: $59
  • Stand Up Paddleboard Adventure on the Outer Banks : $65
  • 2-hour Outer Banks Wild Horse Tour by 4WD Truck: $65

Tours and Activities in Chattanooga

Here are a few actual costs in Chattanooga for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • Bridge to Fun a Chattanooga Rydable Experience : $69
  • Bridge to Fun: A Chattanooga 1 Hour Rydable Experience: $69
  • Chattanooga "C-Block Prison Break" Escape Room Admission Ticket: $38
  • Chattanooga "Locker Room Lockdown: Mascot Rescue" Escape Room Admission Ticket: $40
  • Chattanooga "Secret Agent" Escape Room Admission Ticket: $40
  • Chattanooga "The Inheritance Mystery Room" Escape Room Admission Ticket: $38
  • Chattanooga "Vaccine: Search For The Zombie Cure" Escape Room Admission Ticket: $38
  • Chattanooga Blues to Bridges Self Guided Walking Tour: $9.75
  • Chattanooga Crypts and Chills Ghost Tour: $32
  • Chattanooga Crypts and Chills Ghost Tour: $24
  • Chattanooga’s Rydables Tour from Trains to Bridges: $89
  • A Spooky and Family-Friendly Walking Tour: $30

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Nags Head $12
    Chattanooga $24

Sample the Local Flavors in Nags Head

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Nags Head:

  • Wine Tasting And Boat Ride: $109

Sample the Local Flavors in Chattanooga

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

  • Distillery Tour at Gate 11: $18
  • Chattanooga Wine Tasting with Art Sightseeing Tour: $180


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

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


Which is Bigger, Nags Head or Chattanooga?

Chattanooga has a larger population, and is about 50 times larger than the population of Nags Head. When comparing the sizes of Nags Head and Chattanooga, 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 Nags Head or Chattanooga?

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 Nags Head or Chattanooga in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Nags Head as well as Chattanooga. The summer months attract visitors to Nags Head because of the family-friendly experiences. Also, the hiking and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Chattanooga this time of year.

In July, Nags Head is generally around the same temperature as Chattanooga. Daily temperatures in Nags Head average around 78°F (26°C), and Chattanooga fluctuates around 81°F (27°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Chattanooga. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Nags Head this time of the year. In the summer, Nags Head often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Chattanooga. Nags Head gets 274 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Chattanooga receives 265 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Chattanooga. Nags Head receives a lot of rain in the summer. Nags Head usually gets around the same amount of rain in July as Chattanooga. Nags Head gets 5.4 inches (137 mm) of rain, while Chattanooga receives 5.2 inches (131 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Nags Head 78°F (26°C) 
    Chattanooga 81°F (27°C)

Should I visit Nags Head or Chattanooga in the Autumn?

Both Chattanooga and Nags Head are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Also, many travelers come to Chattanooga for the hiking trails and the shopping scene.

Nags Head is around the same temperature as Chattanooga in the autumn. The daily temperature in Nags Head averages around 62°F (16°C) in October, and Chattanooga fluctuates around 63°F (17°C).

It's quite sunny in Chattanooga. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Nags Head. Nags Head usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Chattanooga during autumn. Nags Head gets 205 hours of sunny skies, while Chattanooga receives 211 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Nags Head usually receives more rain than Chattanooga. Nags Head gets 3.2 inches (82 mm) of rain, while Chattanooga receives 3 inches (75 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Nags Head 62°F (16°C) 
    Chattanooga 63°F (17°C)

Should I visit Nags Head or Chattanooga in the Winter?

Both Chattanooga and Nags Head during the winter are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Nags Head for the cuisine. Furthermore, many visitors come to Chattanooga in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Chattanooga can get quite cold in the winter. Be prepared for some very cold days in Nags Head. In the winter, Nags Head is around the same temperature as Chattanooga. Typically, the winter temperatures in Nags Head in January average around 41°F (5°C), and Chattanooga averages at about 40°F (5°C).

In the winter, Nags Head often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Chattanooga. Nags Head gets 147 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Chattanooga receives 145 hours of full sun.

Chattanooga gets a good bit of rain this time of year. It rains a lot this time of the year in Nags Head. Nags Head usually gets less rain in January than Chattanooga. Nags Head gets 4.1 inches (105 mm) of rain, while Chattanooga receives 5.4 inches (137 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Nags Head 41°F (5°C) 
    Chattanooga 40°F (5°C)

Should I visit Nags Head or Chattanooga in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Nags Head and Chattanooga.

In April, Nags Head is generally cooler than Chattanooga. Daily temperatures in Nags Head average around 59°F (15°C), and Chattanooga fluctuates around 62°F (17°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Chattanooga this time of the year. In Nags Head, it's very sunny this time of the year. Nags Head usually receives more sunshine than Chattanooga during spring. Nags Head gets 262 hours of sunny skies, while Chattanooga receives 243 hours of full sun in the spring.

Chattanooga receives a lot of rain in the spring. In April, Nags Head usually receives less rain than Chattanooga. Nags Head gets 3 inches (75 mm) of rain, while Chattanooga receives 4.4 inches (112 mm) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Nags Head 59°F (15°C) 
    Chattanooga 62°F (17°C)

Typical Weather for Chattanooga and Nags Head

Nags Head Chattanooga
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 41°F (5°C) 4.1 inches (105 mm) 40°F (5°C) 5.4 inches (137 mm)
Feb 42°F (6°C) 3.6 inches (92 mm) 44°F (7°C) 5.2 inches (132 mm)
Mar 50°F (10°C) 3.9 inches (98 mm) 53°F (12°C) 5.6 inches (143 mm)
Apr 59°F (15°C) 3 inches (75 mm) 62°F (17°C) 4.4 inches (112 mm)
May 67°F (19°C) 4.6 inches (117 mm) 70°F (21°C) 3.4 inches (87 mm)
Jun 74°F (23°C) 4.1 inches (105 mm) 78°F (25°C) 3.7 inches (93 mm)
Jul 78°F (26°C) 5.4 inches (137 mm) 81°F (27°C) 5.2 inches (131 mm)
Aug 78°F (25°C) 5 inches (127 mm) 80°F (27°C) 3.2 inches (82 mm)
Sep 72°F (22°C) 4.7 inches (119 mm) 74°F (24°C) 3.7 inches (94 mm)
Oct 62°F (16°C) 3.2 inches (82 mm) 63°F (17°C) 3 inches (75 mm)
Nov 53°F (12°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm) 53°F (12°C) 3.9 inches (100 mm)
Dec 45°F (7°C) 3.4 inches (85 mm) 44°F (7°C) 5.2 inches (133 mm)