A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Tampa vs. Gatlinburg for Nightlife, Couples, and Food

Should you visit Tampa or Gatlinburg?

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

Should I visit Tampa or Gatlinburg? 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.

Tampa

Tampa is a low-key, laid-back, and easy-going city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. Other reasons to visit include food and beaches. See Tampa travel costs.

Gatlinburg

Gatlinburg is a wild, flashy, and high energy city. It's also popular because of the hiking, shopping, and museums. See Gatlinburg travel costs.

Tampa and Gatlinburg: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Tampa or Gatlinburg?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Gatlinburg than Tampa, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Gatlinburg is better known for its skiing, museums and attractions, nightlife, resorts, hiking, and shopping, while Tampa is more popular for its food, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and big city activities. Gatlinburg is more touristy than Tampa and is known for its countless entertainment venues as well as its easy access to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Also, Gatlinburg is famous for the Gatlinburg Strip. Tampa is well known for its amusement parks, wildlife parks, and popularity as a cruise ship port.

How is Tampa different from Gatlinburg?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Tampa or Gatlinburg Better for Skiing?

Gatlinburg is a popular place for skiing and snowboarding. However, Tampa is not a skiing destination.

Head to Gatlinburg for some great skiing and other winter activities. Ober Gatlinburg is the only ski area in Tennessee. The winter activities open after Thanksgiving and include snow skiing, snowboarding, ice skating, and tubing.

Tampa is not a skiing destination.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Tampa or Gatlinburg?

Gatlinburg is a popular place for its museums and history. However, Tampa does not have museums and landmarks.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Gatlinburg. Museums range from gaudy to quirky. Check out the Hollywood Star Cars Museum, the Salt and Pepper Shaker Museum, Ripley's Believe It or Not, the Hollywood Wax Museum, and the Titanic Museum. There's also the Gatlinburg Space Needle and the Gatlinburg SkyBridge.

Tampa does not have museums and landmarks.

Is the Food Better in Tampa or Gatlinburg? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Tampa is very good for its local flavors and cuisine. However, Gatlinburg is not a good destination for its local cuisine and restaurants.

There are plenty of up and coming restaurants around Tampa. There are a surprising number of great local restaurants around town as well as a good food truck scene. Some favorite dishes include fresh caught seafood, Grouper sandwiches, and Cuban sandwiches.

You'll find the standard options when it comes to food in Gatlinburg. Staying true to form, restaurants in Gatlinburg cater to the tourist scene and serve up burgers, pizza, pancakes, and other classic favorites.

Is Tampa or Gatlinburg Better for Nightlife?

Gatlinburg is an amazing city to visit for its evening party scene. However, Tampa is lacking in options for nightlife.

Gatlinburg has a colorful and one-of-a-kind nightlife scene. Live music, theatrical shows, as well as bars and clubs that stay open late into the night give this town a huge party atmosphere. During the peak season the town is packed with people looking to have a good time and you'll find tons of things to do by simply walking down the main drag.

Tampa is generally a quiet destination but there are options around. The city has some good nightclubs, sports bars, and other spots where locals enjoy spending the evening.

Is Tampa or Gatlinburg Better for Resorts?

Gatlinburg is an excellent place to visit for its luxury resorts. However, Tampa is not a resort destination.

Gatlinburg is known as a popular and fun resort destination. There are plenty of resorts and vacation clubs near town. Many have pools, waterslides, or hot tubs.

Tampa is not a resort destination.

Is Tampa or Gatlinburg Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Tampa is adequate for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Gatlinburg is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

There are few places where you can go snorkeling in Tampa. While the water isn't always the clearest, there are some nice snorkeling and diving spots in the area. Options include Shell Key and Egmont Key, Crystal River, and Fort De Soto.

Gatlinburg is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Tampa or Gatlinburg Better for Beaches?

Tampa is great for its beaches. However, Gatlinburg is not a beach destination.

Tampa is a very popular place to visit for its beaches. Popular beaches near Tampa include Ben T. Davis Beach, Fred Howard Park, and Indian Rocks Beach.

Gatlinburg is not a beach destination.

Is Tampa or Gatlinburg Better for Hiking?

Gatlinburg is an excellent place to visit for its hiking trails. However, Tampa is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors explore the nearby hiking trails while visiting Gatlinburg. You'll need to head out of town into the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, but once you're there the hiking is impressive. There are waterfall hikes, trails to viewpoints, and loops that take you through wildflowers. Some of the most popular trails include Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail, Middle Prong Trail, and the Gatlinburg Trail.

Tampa is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Tampa or Gatlinburg?

Gatlinburg is a popular place for its shopping areas. However, Tampa is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Gatlinburg has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. There are tourist traps and souvenir shops around town, but you can also head to the Great Smoky Arts and Crafts Community where you can meet local artists and learn about their work.

Tampa is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Tampa or Gatlinburg Better for Families?

Tampa is great for its kid-friendly activities. However, Gatlinburg is not a family-friendly destination.

Tampa is a very family-friendly destination. The city has a number of kid-oriented attractions including Busch Gardens Amusement Park, several kid-friendly museums, and a number of animal centers, aquariums, and wildlife rescue facilities.

Gatlinburg is not a family-friendly destination. Ober Gatlinburg is a combination ski resort and amusement park that is a highlight for many families. During the warmer season, horseback riding and waterparks are popular. There's also a Ripley's Aquarium, minigolf, and Gatlin's Fun Center. Nearby you'll find Dollywood and Pigeon Forge.

Is Tampa or Gatlinburg Better for Couples?

Gatlinburg is an excellent place to visit for couples. However, Tampa is lacking in options for romance.

Gatlinburg makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. If you're looking for a flashy and ostentatious experience, then there are all the typical activities around town - Ripley's Believe It or Not, the Gatlinburg Space Needle, or Ober Gatlinburg. For a bit more nature, you can head out of town and enjoy one of the many hiking trails. There are also breweries and wineries in the area, as well as a range of resorts.

Tampa is not the best destination for a couple to visit. The area does have great restaurants and some fun places to explore, but the downtown area has room for improvement and much of the city is suburban.

Is Tampa or Gatlinburg Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Gatlinburg is a popular place for times when you don't have a car. However, Tampa is lacking in options for its public transit.

Gatlinburg has some public transit options. There's a free trolley service that offers a convenient way to get around town.

Public transit is limited or non-existant in Tampa. There is the street car that runs from downtown Tampa to Ybor City and stops at 11 stations.

Is Tampa or Gatlinburg a more walkable city?

Gatlinburg is an excellent place to visit for its ease of walking around. However, Tampa is lacking in options for its walkability.

Gatlinburg is a very walkable destination. The downtown area is pedestrian-friendly and most of the attractions in town can be reached on foot. If you want to leave town, a car is a must, but in town traffic and parking can be frustrating, so walk when you can.

Tampa is generally not very walkable. While there are some neighborhoods that are considered walkable, you really need a car if you hope to explore Tampa in depth.

For even more information, also check out Is Tampa Worth Visiting? and Is Gatlinburg Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Gatlinburg or Tampa?

How long in Tampa or Gatlinburg?

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

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Gatlinburg than Tampa 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 Gatlinburg.

One day in Tampa or Gatlinburg?

With food around the low-key city of Tampa, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

In Gatlinburg, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this wild destination offers. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. Lots of people come for the nightlife. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

A weekend in Tampa or Gatlinburg?

With food around the destination of Tampa, there's plenty to do. It's also a great beach destination, too. It offers something for everyone. Many people spend a weekend here. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this city.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Gatlinburg. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. This would be the perfect place to spend a weekend, as it has just the right amount of activities. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Five days in Tampa or Gatlinburg?

Tampa, a popular city, is full of activities for travelers. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Gatlinburg is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the skiing and nightlife when visiting the destination of Gatlinburg. Lots of people come for the nightlife. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

A week in Tampa or Gatlinburg?

Tampa is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

You'll find nightlife and shopping around the wild destination of Gatlinburg. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Lots of people come for the nightlife. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

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.

When comparing the travel costs between Tampa and Gatlinburg, we can see that Gatlinburg is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Since both cities are in North America, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

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

Which is Bigger, Tampa or Gatlinburg?

Tampa has a larger population, and is about 80 times larger than the population of Gatlinburg. When comparing the sizes of Tampa and Gatlinburg, 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 Tampa or Gatlinburg?

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 Tampa or Gatlinburg in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Tampa and Gatlinburg. The beaches, snorkeling, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Tampa this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Gatlinburg for the hiking.

In the summer, Tampa is around the same temperature as Gatlinburg. Typically, the summer temperatures in Tampa in July average around 82°F (28°C), and Gatlinburg averages at about 81°F (27°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Gatlinburg this time of the year. In Tampa, it's very sunny this time of the year. Tampa usually receives less sunshine than Gatlinburg during summer. Tampa gets 265 hours of sunny skies, while Gatlinburg receives 294 hours of full sun in the summer.

Gatlinburg receives a lot of rain in the summer. Tampa gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In July, Tampa usually receives more rain than Gatlinburg. Tampa gets 8.4 inches (214 mm) of rain, while Gatlinburg receives 4.7 inches (119 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Tampa or Gatlinburg in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Tampa as well as Gatlinburg. Many travelers come to Tampa for the city's sights and attractions. Additionally, many visitors come to Gatlinburg in the autumn for the hiking trails and the shopping scene.

In October, Tampa is generally a little warmer than Gatlinburg. Daily temperatures in Tampa average around 75°F (24°C), and Gatlinburg fluctuates around 63°F (17°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Gatlinburg. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Tampa this time of the year. In the autumn, Tampa often gets more sunshine than Gatlinburg. Tampa gets 234 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Gatlinburg receives 213 hours of full sun.

Tampa usually gets around the same amount of rain in October as Gatlinburg. Tampa gets 2.6 inches (65 mm) of rain, while Gatlinburg receives 2.7 inches (68 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Tampa or Gatlinburg in the Winter?

Both Gatlinburg and Tampa are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Tampa in the winter for the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Gatlinburg for the skiing, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Gatlinburg can be very cold during winter. Tampa is much warmer than Gatlinburg in the winter. The daily temperature in Tampa averages around 60°F (15°C) in January, and Gatlinburg fluctuates around 40°F (5°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Tampa. Tampa usually receives more sunshine than Gatlinburg during winter. Tampa gets 200 hours of sunny skies, while Gatlinburg receives 134 hours of full sun in the winter.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Gatlinburg. In January, Tampa usually receives less rain than Gatlinburg. Tampa gets 2.3 inches (59 mm) of rain, while Gatlinburg receives 4.7 inches (119 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Tampa or Gatlinburg in the Spring?

Both Gatlinburg and Tampa during the spring are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Tampa for the beaches and the activities around the city during these months.

In the spring, Tampa is a little warmer than Gatlinburg. Typically, the spring temperatures in Tampa in April average around 71°F (22°C), and Gatlinburg averages at about 62°F (17°C).

In Gatlinburg, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Tampa. In the spring, Tampa often gets more sunshine than Gatlinburg. Tampa gets 299 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Gatlinburg receives 263 hours of full sun.

Tampa usually gets less rain in April than Gatlinburg. Tampa gets 2.1 inches (53 mm) of rain, while Gatlinburg receives 3.6 inches (92 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Gatlinburg and Tampa