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

Should you visit Arlington or Grand Teton 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 Teton 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 museums, nightlife, and food.

Grand Teton National Park

Grand Teton National Park is a spectacular, impressive, and vast park. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. It's also popular because of the hiking.

Arlington and Grand Teton National Park: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Good public transit
  • Very walkable
  • 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
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • Less popular for food
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Public transit not as usable
  • Less walkable


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

Visitors will usually find more to do in Arlington than Grand Teton National Park, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Arlington is better known for its museums & sights, food, nightlife, and shopping, while Grand Teton National Park is more popular for its resorts, hiking, and impressive beauty. Arlington is well known for its international connections, its biking and walking trails, and being the location of the Pentagon. Also, Arlington is famous for Arlington National Cemetery. Grand Teton National Park is well known for its grand peaks and diverse wildlife.

How is Arlington different from Grand Teton National Park?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Grand Teton 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 Teton National Park?

Arlington
Grand Teton National Park

Arlington is a great city for its historical sights. However, Grand Teton National Park is not known for its sights and museums.

Arlington offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. 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 Teton National Park offers a handful of options for museums and historical sights. The Visitor Centers have exhibits and other informational sessions.


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

Arlington
Grand Teton National Park

Arlington is a great city for its local flavors and cuisine. However, Grand Teton National Park is not known for its local cuisine and restaurants.

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 Teton National Park. There are a number of restaurants and cafes around the park where you can enjoy a meal, often with a view.

Is Arlington or Grand Teton National Park Better for Nightlife?

Arlington
Grand Teton National Park

Arlington is a great city for nightlife. However, Grand Teton National Park is not known for nightlife and partying.

The nightlife in Arlington has something for everybody. 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.

Most people don't head to Grand Teton National Park specifically for the nightlife scene, but you can find a few options. There's a lounge at Jackson Lake Lodge, but most visitors enjoy a relaxing night in.

Is Arlington or Grand Teton National Park Better for Resorts?

Arlington
Grand Teton National Park

Grand Teton National Park is an excellent place to visit for its luxury resorts. However, Arlington is not a resort destination.

Grand Teton National Park is a popular resort destination that attracts visitors from everywhere. There are several impressive lodges within the park, as well as cabins and more rustic hotels.

Arlington is not a resort destination.


Is Arlington or Grand Teton National Park Better for Hiking?

Arlington
Grand Teton National Park

Grand Teton National Park is terrific for its hiking trails. However, Arlington is not a hiking destination.

Known for its hiking, Grand Teton National Park draws a crowd to experience the nature and the trails. Grand Teton National Park has more than 250 miles of trails that make their way through the mountains and around the rugged landscapes. There are hikes that range from short strolls to backcountry, mult-day trails and it's not uncommon to see wildlife.

Arlington is not a hiking destination.

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

Arlington
Grand Teton National Park

Arlington is a popular place for shopping. However, Grand Teton National Park is not known for its shopping opportunities.

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.

If you're looking to go shopping, Grand Teton National Park has some nice offerings. There are park stores where you can pick up souvenirs or gifts.

Is Arlington or Grand Teton National Park Better for Families?

Arlington
Grand Teton National Park

Grand Teton National Park is an excellent place to visit for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Arlington is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Grand Teton National Park. Kids will enjoy the hiking and wildlife spotting. There's also horseback riding and Ranger Programs that are designed for all ages.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Arlington. 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.


Is Arlington or Grand Teton National Park Better for Couples?

Arlington
Grand Teton National Park

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

Grand Teton National Park has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. With its stunning mountain views and scenic hikes, couples will be surrounded by romance. Many people visit the park for their honeymoon, or even for the wedding itself, and the setting couldn't be more spectacular.

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 Teton National Park Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Arlington
Grand Teton National Park

Grand Teton 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 Teton National Park, as it is a very popular park for budget travelers. There are hostels, campgrounds, and backcountry hiking and camping that backpackers really enjoy.

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 Teton National Park Better for Students?

Arlington
Grand Teton National Park

Arlington is a great city for its student-friendly activities. However, Grand Teton National Park is not popular with students.

Arlington is a very popular city for students and younger travelers. There are a huge number of colleges and museums in the area as well as many great internship and educational opportunities.

Grand Teton National Park is not popular with students.


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

Arlington
Grand Teton National Park

Arlington is a must-visit destination for times when you don't have a car. However, Grand Teton National Park is not known for its public transit.

Arlington has a world-class public transit network to take passengers everywhere in the city. There is a reliable bus system around town as well as many metro connections.

Public transit is limited or non-existant in Grand Teton National Park. There's no public transportation within the park.

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

Arlington
Grand Teton National Park

Arlington is a great city for its walkability. However, Grand Teton National Park is not known 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 Teton National Park is generally not very walkable. You'll need a car to reach most of the trail heads.

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

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

How long in Arlington or Grand Teton National Park?

Both Arlington and Grand Teton National Park have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Grand Teton National Park than in Arlington. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Arlington, and 3-7 days is enough time in Grand Teton National Park.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Arlington than Grand Teton 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 Teton National Park? Ideal Length of Stay
    Arlington 2-4 
    Grand Teton National Park 3-7

One day in Arlington or Grand Teton National Park?

Visitors enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the international city of Arlington. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

You'll find around the park of Grand Teton National Park. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. 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 Arlington or Grand Teton National Park?

Visitors enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the destination of Arlington. Anyone can find something fun to do here. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend. Because of this, a weekend is usually enough time for a trip here.

You'll find around the vast destination of Grand Teton National Park. Hikers are also drawn to this area. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. This park offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Five days in Arlington or Grand Teton National Park?

Arlington is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything. It offers something for everyone.

You'll find around the impressive park of Grand Teton National Park. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this park makes for a great vacation. It's also a relaxing resort destination. Most people head to the area for the hiking. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this park has to offer.

A week in Arlington or Grand Teton National Park?

Arlington is a popular choice for travelers. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Grand Teton National Park is a popular choice for travelers. One week here is typical. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Grand Teton National Park, one week is sufficent for most. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in United States of America, The Best 2-Week Tours in United States of America, The Best 3-Week Tours in United States of America, and Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Grand Teton 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 Teton National Park is $162. 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 Teton National Park in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Arlington $131
    Grand Teton National Park $79
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Arlington $262
    Grand Teton National Park $158
Compare Hotels in Arlington and Grand Teton National Park

Looking for a hotel in Arlington or Grand Teton 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 Teton 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 Teton National Park Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Arlington $49
    Grand Teton National Park $52

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Arlington

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

  • Ronald Reagan DCA Airport Transfers: $160

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Grand Teton National Park

Also for Grand Teton National Park, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Private Luxury 4wd SUV To/From Transfer Jackson Hole Airport: $140
  • Private SUV Transfers to/ from Jackson Hole Airport JAC: $105

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

Prices for flights to both Grand Teton 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 Teton National Park $46

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Grand Teton National Park

For Grand Teton National Park, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Dinner Cookout Ride at Heart Six Ranch: $145

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Arlington $11
    Grand Teton National Park $43

Tours and Activities in Grand Teton National Park

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Grand Teton National Park.

  • Self-Guided Audio Driving Tour in Grand Teton National Park: $17
  • Snake River Scenic Float Private Guided Tour: $300

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Arlington $17
    Grand Teton National Park $19


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Arlington and Grand Teton National Park, we can see that Arlington is more expensive. And not only is Grand Teton National Park much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Grand Teton National Park would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Grand Teton 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 Teton 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 Teton National Park Expensive?.