A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America West Palm Beach vs. Gatlinburg for Nightlife, Resorts, Couples, and Food

Should you visit West Palm Beach or Gatlinburg?

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

Should I visit West Palm Beach 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.

West Palm Beach

West Palm Beach is a fun-filled, diverse, and vibrant beach area. Other reasons to visit include nightlife, scuba diving and snorkeling, and beaches. See West Palm Beach travel costs.

Gatlinburg

Gatlinburg is a flashy, high energy, and wild city. Other reasons to visit include hiking, shopping, and museums. See Gatlinburg travel costs.

West Palm Beach and Gatlinburg: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in West Palm Beach or Gatlinburg?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Gatlinburg. Although West Palm Beach and Gatlinburg are both popular with visitors, Gatlinburg has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Gatlinburg is more popular for its skiing, museums and attractions, nightlife, hiking, and shopping, while West Palm Beach is known for its resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, and beaches. Gatlinburg is more touristy than West Palm Beach and is known for its countless entertainment venues as well as its easy access to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. It is also home to the Gatlinburg Strip. West Palm Beach is popular for its nice resorts, a lively boardwalk, great seafood, and fun watersports.

How is West Palm Beach different from Gatlinburg?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is West Palm Beach or Gatlinburg Better for Skiing?

Gatlinburg is a popular place for skiing. However, West Palm Beach is not a skiing destination.

Gatlinburg is a great destination for skiing with plenty areas to explore. Ober Gatlinburg is the only ski area in Tennessee. The winter activities open after Thanksgiving and include snow skiing, snowboarding, ice skating, and tubing.

West Palm Beach is not a skiing destination.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in West Palm Beach or Gatlinburg?

Gatlinburg is a popular place for its historical sights. However, West Palm Beach does not have museums and landmarks.

Gatlinburg is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. 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.

West Palm Beach does not have museums and landmarks.

Is the Food Better in West Palm Beach or Gatlinburg? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Both West Palm Beach and Gatlinburg offer decent local cuisine and restaurants.

West Palm Beach offers some easy restaurants to choose from. Oceanfront restaurants usually have a great view and offer local and fresh seafood. There are also many local restaurants concentrated around Clematis Street and CityPlace districts.

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 West Palm Beach or Gatlinburg Better for Nightlife?

Gatlinburg is very popular for nightlife. Also, West Palm Beach is not as popular, but is still a nice beach area for nightlife and partying.

Gatlinburg is a party destination, and you'll find plenty of activity all night long. 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.

West Palm Beach offers plenty to do in the evening. With rooftop bars and clubs, oceanfront venues, and plenty of nightlife options downtown, this city rivals most places when it comes to nightlife. The nightlife scene is particularly active during spring break, when university students head to town.

Is West Palm Beach or Gatlinburg Better for Resorts?

West Palm Beach is renowned for its luxury resorts. Also, Gatlinburg is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its resorts.

If you're looking for a fantastic resort destination, West Palm Beach is a perfect choice. All of the major names are present including the Hilton, Marriott, and Four Seasons.

Gatlinburg is a popular resort destination that attracts visitors from everywhere. There are plenty of resorts and vacation clubs near town. Many have pools, waterslides, or hot tubs.

Is West Palm Beach or Gatlinburg Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

West Palm Beach is great for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Gatlinburg is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

There is a nice variety of marine life that makes scuba diving and snorkeling great in West Palm Beach. Check out Phil Foster Park in Rivera Beach. It's a man-made reef that is surprisingly clear.

Gatlinburg is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is West Palm Beach or Gatlinburg Better for Beaches?

West Palm Beach is renowned for its beaches. However, Gatlinburg is not a beach destination.

With world-famous beaches, West Palm Beach is a very popular vacation destination. From bustling beaches with a boardwalk to quieter, more relaxing beaches surrounded by parkland, there are are number of options in the area.

Gatlinburg is not a beach destination.

Is West Palm Beach or Gatlinburg Better for Hiking?

Gatlinburg is a great city for hiking. However, West Palm Beach is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors go to Gatlinburg for the hiking trails. 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.

West Palm Beach is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in West Palm Beach or Gatlinburg?

Gatlinburg is a popular place for shopping. However, West Palm Beach is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Plenty of visitors enjoy shopping while in Gatlinburg. 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.

West Palm Beach is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is West Palm Beach or Gatlinburg Better for Families?

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

West Palm Beach is a very family-friendly destination. Animal lovers will appreciate the zoos and aquariums in the area. Check out McCarthy's Wildlife Sanctuary, Manatee Lagoon, the Palm Beach Zoo, and the South Florida Science Center and Aquarium.

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 West Palm Beach or Gatlinburg Better for Couples?

With fun activities for couples, both West Palm Beach and Gatlinburg make for a great place to visit.

West Palm Beach is a great beach area if you're traveling as a couple. Couples will enjoy kayaking, dining out, or simply relaxing on the beach. It's fun to spend a day exploring the botanical gardens and an evening wandering around Clematis Street.

Gatlinburg is a very popular place to visit for couples. 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.

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

West Palm Beach and Gatlinburg both offer good public transit to get you around.

While West Palm Beach offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There's a downtown trolley, a commuter trail line (connecting West Palm Beach, Miami, and Fort Lauderdale), and a bus system with about 30 lines.

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

Is West Palm Beach or Gatlinburg a more walkable city?

Gatlinburg is a great city for its walkability. Also, West Palm Beach is not as popular, but is still a nice beach area for its high level of walkability.

Gatlinburg is very walkable. 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.

West Palm Beach is a somewhat walkable place. West Palm Beach has a surprisingly walkable area and it's possible to explore the downtown area on foot.

For even more information, also check out Is West Palm Beach Worth Visiting? and Is Gatlinburg Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Gatlinburg or West Palm Beach?

How long in West Palm Beach or Gatlinburg?

It's fun to spend time in either West Palm Beach or Gatlinburg. Generally, people tend to spend more time in West Palm Beach due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for West Palm Beach, and 2-4 days is enough time in Gatlinburg.

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

Couples should spend more time in Gatlinburg than West Palm Beach. 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 West Palm Beach 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 West Palm Beach or Gatlinburg?

With scuba diving and snorkeling and nightlife around the vibrant beach area of West Palm Beach, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. One of the main draws to the area is the beaches. 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.

The wild destination of Gatlinburg offers skiing and nightlife. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. It's no surprise that nightlife is why people visit. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

A weekend in West Palm Beach or Gatlinburg?

With nightlife and scuba diving and snorkeling around the destination of West Palm Beach, there's plenty to do. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. It offers something for everyone. One of the main draws to the area is the beaches. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything.

The city of Gatlinburg offers nightlife and shopping. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. A weekend here is typical. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything. A weekend is often enough time to do most activities.

Five days in West Palm Beach or Gatlinburg?

West Palm Beach, a popular beach area, is full of activities for travelers. This is a popular place to visit for five days. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. In five days, you should have a good grasp of this beach area. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Gatlinburg is a great place to explore. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. It's no surprise that nightlife is why people visit. This city offers something for everyone. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

A week in West Palm Beach or Gatlinburg?

West Palm Beach is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have one week, this beach area makes for a great vacation. One of the main draws to the area is the beaches. One week should give you a good understanding of everything this beach area has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Many people enjoy the museums and skiing when visiting Gatlinburg. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 3-Week Tours in United States of America, The Best Bicycle Tours in United States of America, Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in United States of America, and The Best Coach Bus Tours in United States of America.

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

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

Which is Bigger, West Palm Beach or Gatlinburg?

West Palm Beach has a larger population, and is about 20 times larger than the population of Gatlinburg. When comparing the sizes of West Palm Beach 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 West Palm Beach 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 West Palm Beach or Gatlinburg in the Summer?

Both Gatlinburg and West Palm Beach are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The beaches, snorkeling, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to West Palm Beach this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Gatlinburg for the hiking.

West Palm Beach is around the same temperature as Gatlinburg in the summer. The daily temperature in West Palm Beach averages around 82°F (28°C) in July, and Gatlinburg fluctuates around 81°F (27°C).

It's quite sunny in Gatlinburg. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in West Palm Beach. West Palm Beach usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Gatlinburg during summer. West Palm Beach gets 316 hours of sunny skies, while Gatlinburg receives 294 hours of full sun in the summer.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Gatlinburg. It's quite rainy in West Palm Beach. In July, West Palm Beach usually receives more rain than Gatlinburg. West Palm Beach gets 6.5 inches (166 mm) of rain, while Gatlinburg receives 4.7 inches (119 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit West Palm Beach or Gatlinburg in the Autumn?

Both Gatlinburg and West Palm Beach during the autumn are popular places to visit. Furthermore, many visitors come to Gatlinburg in the autumn for the hiking trails and the shopping scene.

In the autumn, West Palm Beach is a little warmer than Gatlinburg. Typically, the autumn temperatures in West Palm Beach in October average around 78°F (25°C), and Gatlinburg averages at about 63°F (17°C).

In Gatlinburg, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in West Palm Beach. In the autumn, West Palm Beach often gets more sunshine than Gatlinburg. West Palm Beach gets 275 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Gatlinburg receives 213 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in West Palm Beach. West Palm Beach usually gets more rain in October than Gatlinburg. West Palm Beach gets 8.7 inches (222 mm) of rain, while Gatlinburg receives 2.7 inches (68 mm) of rain this time of the year. Also, the hurricane season in West Palm Beach is June to November.

Should I visit West Palm Beach or Gatlinburg in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both West Palm Beach and Gatlinburg. Many visitors come to West Palm Beach in the winter for the cuisine. Furthermore, 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. In January, West Palm Beach is generally much warmer than Gatlinburg. Daily temperatures in West Palm Beach average around 65°F (19°C), and Gatlinburg fluctuates around 40°F (5°C).

In West Palm Beach, it's very sunny this time of the year. West Palm Beach usually receives more sunshine than Gatlinburg during winter. West Palm Beach gets 243 hours of sunny skies, while Gatlinburg receives 134 hours of full sun in the winter.

Gatlinburg receives a lot of rain in the winter. In January, West Palm Beach usually receives less rain than Gatlinburg. West Palm Beach gets 2.6 inches (66 mm) of rain, while Gatlinburg receives 4.7 inches (119 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit West Palm Beach or Gatlinburg in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to West Palm Beach as well as Gatlinburg. Most visitors come to West Palm Beach for the beaches during these months.

West Palm Beach is a little warmer than Gatlinburg in the spring. The daily temperature in West Palm Beach averages around 74°F (23°C) in April, and Gatlinburg fluctuates around 62°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 West Palm Beach this time of the year. In the spring, West Palm Beach often gets more sunshine than Gatlinburg. West Palm Beach gets 300 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Gatlinburg receives 263 hours of full sun.

West Palm Beach usually gets around the same amount of rain in April as Gatlinburg. West Palm Beach gets 3.5 inches (89 mm) of rain, while Gatlinburg receives 3.6 inches (92 mm) of rain this time of the year. Keep in mind that June to November is the hurricane season in West Palm Beach.

Typical Weather for Gatlinburg and West Palm Beach