A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Arlington vs. Grand Canyon National Park for Couples, Backpackers, Food, and Families

Should you visit Arlington or Grand Canyon National Park?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Arlington or Grand Canyon National Park, 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.

Arlington

Arlington is a international, historical, and educational city. Other reasons to visit include food, shopping, and museums.

Grand Canyon National Park

Grand Canyon National Park is a striking, breathtaking, and stunning national park. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. It's also popular because of the hiking.

Arlington and Grand Canyon National Park: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Good public transit
  • Home to Arlington National Cemetery
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with couples
Pros
  • Nice resorts
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to the sunset views
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for food
  • Public transit not as usable


Is there more to do in Arlington or Grand Canyon National Park?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Grand Canyon National Park than Arlington, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Grand Canyon National Park is better known for its resorts, hiking, and impressive beauty, while Arlington is more popular for its museums, food, nightlife, and shopping. Grand Canyon National Park is more touristy than Arlington and is known for its iconic beauty, layers of color, breathtaking sunsets, and world-renowned geological history. Also, Grand Canyon National Park is famous for the sunset views. Arlington is well known for its international connections, its biking and walking trails, and being the location of the Pentagon.

How is Arlington different from Grand Canyon National Park?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Grand Canyon National Park and Arlington. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Arlington or Grand Canyon National Park?

Arlington
Grand Canyon National Park

Arlington is a very popular place for its museums and history. However, Grand Canyon National Park does not have museums and landmarks.

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around Arlington. Arlington National Cemetery is where you'll find the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier as well as the tomb of John F. Kennedy Jr. There are many memorials around town, with the most famous being the U.S. Marine Corps Memorial. There are also several museums like the DEA Museum and the Museum of Contemporary Art.

Grand Canyon National Park does not have museums and landmarks.


Is the Food Better in Arlington or Grand Canyon National Park? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Arlington
Grand Canyon National Park

Arlington is a very popular place for its restaurants. However, Grand Canyon National Park is lacking in good options for its restaurant scene.

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in Arlington. It's a global city, and the restaurants reflect that. You'll find amazing Thai, Japanese, and Mexican restaurants. There are also less common cuisines to choose from such as Ethiopian, Moroccan, and Peruvian.

You'll find the standard options when it comes to food in Grand Canyon National Park. There are several markets, restaurants, and cafes in the park but, in general, the options are expensive and not the best. If possible, bring your own food and plan for a picnic with a view.

Is Arlington or Grand Canyon National Park Better for Nightlife?

Arlington
Grand Canyon National Park

Arlington is a very popular place for nightlife. However, Grand Canyon National Park is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Arlington has a large number of nightlife venues. The city has a huge young population that drives the nightlife scene. There are clubs, bars, and lounges in many neighborhoods. There are also comedy clubs and plenty of live music.

Grand Canyon National Park is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Is Arlington or Grand Canyon National Park Better for Resorts?

Arlington
Grand Canyon National Park

Grand Canyon National Park is a nice place to visit for its luxury resorts. However, Arlington is not a resort destination.

Grand Canyon National Park has a few great resort options. There are several options within and near the park that range from luxury to affordable. Reservations should be made well in advance for most hotels within the park. Bright Angel Lodge, El Tovar Hotel, Grand Canyon Lodge (North Rim) and Phantom Ranch are all unique places to stay.

Arlington is not a resort destination.


Is Arlington or Grand Canyon National Park Better for Hiking?

Arlington
Grand Canyon National Park

Grand Canyon National Park is an excellent place to visit for its hiking trails. However, Arlington is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors explore the nearby hiking trails while visiting Grand Canyon National Park. Hiking options at the Grand Canyon include an easy walk along the rim or a hike into the canyon. If you're planning to enjoy a view from the rim and then stroll along the rim walk, a day or two is plenty. Hiking into the canyon is a thrilling experience, but it does require more preparation and planning. You should also check out the weather before you depart as temperatures within the canyon can become dangerously hot.

Arlington is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Arlington or Grand Canyon National Park?

Arlington
Grand Canyon National Park

Arlington is a good destination for shopping. However, Grand Canyon National Park is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Plenty of visitors enjoy shopping while in Arlington. Many neighborhoods have local shops or farmer's markets. There are also shopping centers and malls such as Ballston Quarter, The Crossing Clarendon, and The Village at Shirlington.

Grand Canyon National Park is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Arlington or Grand Canyon National Park Better for Families?

Arlington
Grand Canyon National Park

Arlington and Grand Canyon National Park are both notable destinations for the whole family.

Arlington is a family-friendly city. Kids will enjoy seeing the planes talk off from Gravelly Point park. There are also plenty of outdoor spaces and educational opportunities in the area, including world class museums.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Grand Canyon National Park. This park is a spectacular landmark with a number of nature programs that kids can enjoy. There's also a simple rim walk along the edge of the canyon that is perfect for little legs.


Is Arlington or Grand Canyon National Park Better for Couples?

Arlington
Grand Canyon National Park

Grand Canyon National Park is terrific for couples. Also, Arlington is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for romance.

Grand Canyon National Park has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. Couples who enjoy beauty, nature, and adventure will appreciate a visit to this park. There are amazing hikes and breathtaking views that make this a truly romantic destination. There are also several hotels and lodges that make for a truly romantic getaway (book well in advance!).

Arlington is a nice destination for couples. There's a vibrant cultural scene and many international restaurants that couples can enjoy. It's also a great place to take in a show or concert.

Is Arlington or Grand Canyon National Park Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Arlington
Grand Canyon National Park

Grand Canyon National Park is terrific for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Arlington is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for backpackers.

A large number of backpackers visit Grand Canyon National Park, as it is a very popular national park for budget travelers. Backpackers and budget travelers can take in one of America's most notable landmarks while camping at the large and affordable national park campground.

Backpackers come from all over to visit Arlington. There are a couple of hostels and many free activities nearby. There's also great public transportation that makes for a convenient backpacker destination.

Is Arlington or Grand Canyon National Park Better for Students?

Arlington
Grand Canyon National Park

Arlington is a very popular place for its student-friendly activities. However, Grand Canyon National Park is not popular with students.

Many students visit Arlington. There are a huge number of colleges and museums in the area as well as many great internship and educational opportunities.

Grand Canyon National Park is not popular with students.


Is Arlington or Grand Canyon National Park Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Arlington
Grand Canyon National Park

Arlington is renowned for times when you don't have a car. However, Grand Canyon National Park is lacking in good options for its public transit.

Arlington has a great public transit system. There is a reliable bus system around town as well as many metro connections.

Public transit is generally limited in Grand Canyon National Park. There are free shuttle buses that run along the South Rim of the Grand Canyon.

Is Arlington or Grand Canyon National Park a more walkable city?

Arlington
Grand Canyon National Park

Arlington is a very popular place for its walkability. Also, Grand Canyon National Park is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its high level of walkability.

Arlington is very walkable. There are many pedestrian-friendly areas around town, particularly in the neighborhoods that are concentrated around metro stations.

Grand Canyon National Park is a somewhat walkable place. There's a nice rim walk that is the perfect place for a leisurely stroll, but to reach many parts of the park you'll want to have a car or plan to take some form of transit.

For even more information, also check out Is Arlington Worth Visiting? and Is Grand Canyon National Park Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Grand Canyon National Park or Arlington?

How long in Arlington or Grand Canyon National Park?

It's fun to spend time in either Arlington or Grand Canyon National Park. In our opinion, Arlington has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Arlington than Grand Canyon National Park. In general, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Arlington, and 1-4 days is enough time in Grand Canyon National Park.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Arlington than Grand Canyon National Park 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 Arlington.


  • How many days in Arlington or Grand Canyon National Park? Ideal Length of Stay
    Arlington 2-4 
    Grand Canyon National Park 1-4

One day in Arlington or Grand Canyon National Park?

In Arlington, many people enjoy the museums and nightlife that this educational destination offers. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

You'll find around the national park of Grand Canyon National Park. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One day is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Grand Canyon National Park has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.


A weekend in Arlington or Grand Canyon National Park?

In Arlington, many people enjoy the nightlife and food that this destination offers. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything. Many people spend a weekend here. A weekend is often enough time to do most activities.

You'll find around the gorgeous destination of Grand Canyon National Park. 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 national park has to offer. This national park offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Five days in Arlington or Grand Canyon National Park?

Many people enjoy the food and shopping when visiting Arlington. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. This city offers something for everyone.

Travelers enjoy the when visiting the world-renowned national park of Grand Canyon National Park. 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 Arlington or Grand Canyon National Park?

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the city of Arlington. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

Grand Canyon National Park 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 Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in United States of America, The Best Coach Bus Tours in United States of America, The Best Adventure Tours to United States of America, and The Best Train & Rail Tours in United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Grand Canyon National Park or Arlington?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Arlington is $264, while the average daily cost in Grand Canyon National Park is $168. 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 Arlington and Grand Canyon National Park in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Arlington $131
    Grand Canyon National Park $89
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Arlington $262
    Grand Canyon National Park $178
Compare Hotels in Arlington and Grand Canyon National Park

Looking for a hotel in Arlington or Grand Canyon National Park? 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 Arlington


Hotels in Grand Canyon National Park


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: Arlington Hotel Prices and Grand Canyon National Park Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Arlington $49
    Grand Canyon National Park $43

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Arlington

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

  • Ronald Reagan DCA Airport Transfers: $160

Is it cheaper to fly into Arlington or Grand Canyon National Park?

Prices for flights to both Grand Canyon National Park and Arlington 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
    Arlington $81
    Grand Canyon National Park $49

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Arlington $11
    Grand Canyon National Park $35

Tours and Activities in Grand Canyon National Park

For Grand Canyon National Park, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • 3 Hour Off-Road Sunset Safari to Grand Canyon with Entrance Gate Detour : $123
  • 3-Day Adventure in Mulu National Park: $298
  • 4 Hour Grand Canyon Biblical Creation Morning Rim Tour: $149
  • 4-Hour Biblical Creation + Sunset Tour • Grand Canyon National Park South Rim: $149
  • Desert View Grand Canyon Tour - Pink Jeep: $143
  • Full Day Chauffeur for Grand Canyon Tour from inside Grand Canyon: $249
  • Full Day Chauffeur for South Rim Grand Canyon Tour from Tusayan: $249
  • Full-Day Tour to Grand Canyon Coach and River Float: $245
  • Grand Canyon Full Day Small Group Tour: $299
  • Grand Canyon Landmarks Tour by Airplane with Optional Hummer Tour: $179
  • Grand Canyon Signature Hummer Tour with Optional Sunset Views: $121
  • Grand Canyon South & East Rim Self-Driving, Walking & Shuttling Tour: $17

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Arlington $17
    Grand Canyon National Park $11


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

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Arlington Expensive? and Is Grand Canyon National Park Expensive?.