A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Asheville vs. Grand Teton National Park for Hiking, Couples, Backpackers, and Nightlife

Should you visit Asheville or Grand Teton National Park?

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

Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for Asheville and Grand Teton National Park. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.

Asheville

Asheville is a open-minded, eclectic, and outdoorsy mountain town. It's a gorgeous place to visit. This is a quaint and attractive place to visit, too. Other reasons to visit include food, hiking, and shopping.

Grand Teton National Park

Grand Teton National Park is a vast, spectacular, and impressive park. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. And you can't forget about the hiking.

Asheville and Grand Teton National Park: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Scenic old town
  • Good for hiking
  • Fun shopping
  • Popular at Christmas
  • Known for Christmas markets
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less popular for shopping


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

Travelers will usually find more to do in Asheville. Although Asheville and Grand Teton National Park are popular destinations, Asheville has more sights and attractions for tourists. Asheville is very popular for its food, nightlife, music, historical sights, shopping, christmas markets, and quaint atmosphere, while Grand Teton National Park attracts visitors for its museums, resorts, hiking, and impressive beauty. Grand Teton National Park is more touristy than Asheville and is popular for its grand peaks and diverse wildlife. Asheville is famous for its fall foliage, artsy downtown, local North Carolina barbecue, and being home to the Biltmore Estate. It is also well known for The Biltmore Estate.

How is Asheville 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 Asheville. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Asheville or Grand Teton National Park?

Asheville
Grand Teton National Park

Grand Teton National Park is a park with a few options for its museums and landmarks. However, Asheville does not have museums and landmarks.

Grand Teton National Park offers a handful of options for museums and historical sights. The Visitor Centers have exhibits and other informational sessions.

Asheville does not have museums and landmarks.


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

Asheville
Grand Teton National Park

Asheville is a popular place for its local flavors and cuisine. However, Grand Teton National Park is not known for its local cuisine and restaurants.

There are plenty of up and coming restaurants around Asheville. Downtown Asheville is filled with local restaurants that serve everything from brunch to late night snacks. There are many vegan and vegetarian options as well as a number of international restaurants. Popular local dishes include North Carolina barbeque and country ham biscuits.

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 Asheville or Grand Teton National Park Better for Nightlife?

Asheville
Grand Teton National Park

Asheville is a great mountain town for nightlife. However, Grand Teton National Park is not known for nightlife and partying.

The nightlife in Asheville has something for everybody. The city has a fun and eclectic nightlife scene that centers around the city's breweries and live music venues.

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 Asheville or Grand Teton National Park Better for Music?

Asheville
Grand Teton National Park

Asheville is a great mountain town for live music. However, Grand Teton National Park is not a live music destination.

Asheville has a thriving music scene. The city has grown into a world famous music destination that holds true to its mountain roots and independent artists.

Grand Teton National Park is not a live music destination.


Is Asheville or Grand Teton National Park Better for Resorts?

Asheville
Grand Teton National Park

Grand Teton National Park is well known for its resorts. Also, Asheville is still popular, but not quite as popular for its luxury resorts.

There are plenty of resorts in Grand Teton National Park to choose from. There are several impressive lodges within the park, as well as cabins and more rustic hotels.

Asheville has a few great resort options. The most famous resorts in the area are the Biltmore Estate and the Grove Park Inn. Both offer luxury restaurants and beautiful grounds that are particularly nice during the holidays.

Is Asheville or Grand Teton National Park Better for its Old Town?

Asheville
Grand Teton National Park

Asheville is adequate for its historic old town. However, Grand Teton National Park does not have a historic old town.

Asheville is a good place to visit the old town. Downtown Asheville maintains much of its historic vibe, but it's smaller than some of the more notable old cities around the country.

Grand Teton National Park does not have a historic old town.

Is Asheville or Grand Teton National Park Better for Hiking?

Asheville
Grand Teton National Park

Grand Teton National Park is an unbeatable place for its hiking experiences. Also, Asheville is still popular, but not quite as popular for hiking.

Grand Teton National Park is well-known for its hiking and trekking. 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.

Many visitors go to Asheville for the hiking trails. Just outside of town are many great hikes to waterfalls or through the mountains. The hikes range in skill level and length but many pass through local forests or along the beautiful skyline.


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

Asheville
Grand Teton National Park

Asheville is a great mountain town for shopping. However, Grand Teton National Park is not known for its shopping opportunities.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Asheville. The city has many local shops that sell local crafts and independent art. The downtown area is filled with art vendors and you'll find the greatest concentration of shopping along the pedestrian-friendly Lexington Avenue.

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 Asheville or Grand Teton National Park Better for Christmas?

Asheville
Grand Teton National Park

Asheville is a great mountain town for its Christmas holiday experiences. However, Grand Teton National Park does not offer Christmas activities.

Asheville is a very popular destination during Christmas. Head to the Biltmore Estate to see it fully decorated for the Christmas season. It's also worth going to see the winning Gingerbread Houses on display at the Grove Park Inn.

Grand Teton National Park does not offer Christmas activities.

Is Asheville or Grand Teton National Park Better for Christmas Markets?

Asheville
Grand Teton National Park

Asheville is adequate for visiting Christmas markets. However, Grand Teton National Park does not offer Christmas markets.

Asheville is a good spot to see some Christmas markets. There are a handful of local Christmas shops around town where you can buy personalized gifts.

Grand Teton National Park does not offer Christmas markets.


Is Asheville or Grand Teton National Park Better for Families?

Asheville
Grand Teton National Park

Both Asheville and Grand Teton National Park are superb family-friendly destinations.

Asheville is a very kid-friendly mountain town. With its beautiful hiking, interesting nature centers, and outdoor adventure activities, this mountain town makes a great kid-friendly destination. There are outdoor adventure parks where kids can zipline or climb. There are also hands on farms and orchards for fruit-picking.

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.

Is Asheville or Grand Teton National Park Better for Couples?

Asheville
Grand Teton National Park

Grand Teton National Park is an unbeatable place for its romantic activities. Also, Asheville is still popular, but not quite as popular for couples.

Grand Teton National Park is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. 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.

Asheville is a great mountain town if you're traveling as a couple. Couples enjoy exploring the beautiful Biltmore Estates or visiting the spa at the Grove Park Inn. The quaint town makes a great honeymoon destination or a nice romantic getaway. There are luxury hotels or intimate bed and breakfasts that offer different options for couples on a romantic trip.

Is Asheville or Grand Teton National Park Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Asheville
Grand Teton National Park

Grand Teton National Park is an unbeatable place for backpackers. Also, Asheville is still popular, but not quite as popular for backpackers and budget travelers.

Backpackers and budget travelers come from all over the world to visit Grand Teton National Park. There are hostels, campgrounds, and backcountry hiking and camping that backpackers really enjoy.

Plenty of budget travelers and backpackers visit Asheville. The town has an eclectic vibe that backpackers appreciate. There are a few good hostels around town as well as nearby campgrounds that are perfect for budget travelers or hikers.


Is Asheville or Grand Teton National Park Better for Students?

Asheville
Grand Teton National Park

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

Asheville is a very popular mountain town for students and younger travelers. With its progressive personality and charming downtown, students enjoy spending time in this great town.

Grand Teton National Park is not popular with students.

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

Asheville
Grand Teton National Park

Asheville is adequate for times when you don't have a car. However, Grand Teton National Park is not known for its public transit.

Public transit is mostly limited in Asheville. There are buses around town, but almost everyone gets around town with their own vehicle.

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

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

Asheville
Grand Teton National Park

Asheville is a popular place for its walkability. However, Grand Teton National Park is not known for its high level of walkability.

Asheville is somewhat walkable. If you stay downtown and don't plan to explore the outlying areas, then it's possible to walk around town. Otherwise, you'll need a car.

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 Asheville Worth Visiting? and Is Grand Teton National Park Worth Visiting?.

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

How long in Asheville or Grand Teton National Park?

Both Asheville 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 Asheville. Usually, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Asheville, and 3-7 days is enough time in Grand Teton National Park.

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

Couples should spend more time in Asheville than Grand Teton National Park. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Asheville that are great for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Asheville 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 Asheville.


  • How many days in Asheville or Grand Teton National Park? Ideal Length of Stay
    Asheville 2-3 
    Grand Teton National Park 3-7

One day in Asheville or Grand Teton National Park?

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the open-minded mountain town of Asheville. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. 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 Asheville or Grand Teton National Park?

Visitors enjoy the shopping and nightlife when visiting the destination of Asheville. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. 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 impressive 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 Asheville or Grand Teton National Park?

Asheville is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. 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 Asheville or Grand Teton National Park?

Asheville 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 Romantic Tours for Couples in United States of America, The Best Polar Tours & Cruises in United States of America, The Best Walking Tours in United States of America, and The Best Tours Under $1000 in United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Grand Teton National Park or Asheville?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Asheville is $133, 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 Asheville and Grand Teton National Park in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Asheville $89
    Grand Teton National Park $79
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Asheville $178
    Grand Teton National Park $158
Compare Hotels in Asheville and Grand Teton National Park

Looking for a hotel in Asheville 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 Asheville


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: Asheville Hotel Prices and Grand Teton National Park Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Asheville $14
    Grand Teton National Park $52

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

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

Prices for flights to both Grand Teton National Park and Asheville 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
    Asheville $33
    Grand Teton National Park $46
Typical Food Prices in Asheville

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for food and meal costs in Asheville:


  • Biltmore Estate Entrance Fee
    $60

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Asheville

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

  • 1-HR cooking class: $40
  • Electric Bike Tour of Asheville's Best Pizza: $98
  • Best Pizza E-bike Tour: $111

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:

  • Jackson Hole Chuckwagon Dinner: $75
  • Dinner Cookout Ride at Heart Six Ranch: $145

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Asheville $16
    Grand Teton National Park $43
Typical Entertainment Prices in Asheville

Here are a few typical costs in Asheville for activities, ticket prices, and tours that come from previous visitors:


  • Massage
    $40

Tours and Activities in Asheville

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

  • (3 HR) Guided Safari Jeep Mile-High & Waterfall Adventure: $100
  • (3 HR) Off-Road UTV Wilderness Adventure : $175
  • (4 HR) UTV Sunset, Waterfall, and Eco Elk Wilderness Adventure : $275
  • 2.5-Hour Blue Ridge Parkway Guided Jeep Tour: $99
  • 4 Hour Guided Safari Jeep Eco ELK Wilderness Adventure : $144
  • Amazing Asheville Scavenger Hunt Adventure: $44
  • An afternoon with the artist, private art gallery tour: $60
  • Asheville Coffee Tours: $65
  • Asheville Ghost Tour: A Walk Through Riverside Cemetery & Montford Neighborhood: $27
  • Asheville Historic Downtown Guided Electric Bike Tour with Scenic Views: $75
  • Asheville Historic Highlights: Self-Guided Walking Tour: $8.49
  • Asheville Insider Guided Walking Tour: $35

Tours and Activities in Grand Teton National Park

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

  • Snake River Scenic Float Private Guided Tour: $225

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Asheville $16
    Grand Teton National Park $19

Sample the Local Flavors in Asheville

Also in Asheville, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • Skip the Line: Copper Barrel's Premium Distillery Tour & Tasting: $10
  • Terrors, Boos and Booze Haunted Pub Crawl: $35
  • Ultimate Late Night Haunted Pub Crawl: $35
  • Asheville Terrors Boos and Brews Haunted Pub Crawl: $39
  • Expert-Led Brewery Walking Tour with Beer Samples: $65
  • Downtown Asheville Guided Brewery Walking Tour: $69
  • Premier Walking Guided Brewery Tour Through Downtown Asheville: $69
  • Electric Bike Brewery Crawl of Asheville: $74
  • Premier Mobile Guided Brewery Tour Around Asheville: $99
  • Guided Craft Brewery Tour with a Snack: $99
  • Asheville Signature Guided Brewery Tour: $105


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

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