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

Should you visit Aspen or Grand Teton National Park?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Aspen and Grand Teton National Park can help. It includes a travel cost comparison in addition to other factors. For many travelers, the cost of a destination is a primary consideration when choosing where to go.

Aspen

Aspen is a vibrant, artsy, and outdoorsy ski town. With plenty of activities and sights, this is a small town worth visiting. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. 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 spectacular, impressive, and vast park. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. Other popular activities here include hiking.

Aspen and Grand Teton National Park: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular for skiing
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Good for hiking
  • Fun shopping
  • Popular at Christmas
  • Known for Christmas markets
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good public transit
  • Very walkable
  • Small town charm
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with backpackers
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 food
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less popular for shopping
  • Public transit not as usable
  • Less walkable


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

Visitors will usually find more to do in Aspen than Grand Teton National Park, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Aspen is better known for its skiing, food, nightlife, music, shopping, christmas markets, small town charm, and quaint atmosphere, while Grand Teton National Park is more popular for its museums, hiking, and impressive beauty. Aspen is well known for its world-class skiing, many food, film, and music festivals, and its stunning mountain hikes. Also, Aspen is famous for The Maroon Bells. Grand Teton National Park is well known for its grand peaks and diverse wildlife.

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

Is Aspen or Grand Teton National Park Better for Skiing?

Aspen
Grand Teton National Park

Aspen is a must-visit destination for skiing. However, Grand Teton National Park is not a skiing destination.

If you're an avid snow skiier, Aspen should be on your list. Near the town, there are 4 separate ski resorts. In town you'll find Aspen Mountain, which is known for it's black-diamond runs. Aspen Highlands, a couple miles away, has a mix of slopes and is less crowded. Buttermilk attracts many freestyle skiers and Aspen Snowmass is considered one of the best family-friendly ski areas.

Grand Teton National Park is not a skiing destination.


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

Aspen
Grand Teton National Park

Grand Teton National Park is a park with a few options for its museums and landmarks. However, Aspen 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.

Aspen does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Aspen
Grand Teton National Park

Aspen is a must-visit destination for its local flavors and cuisine. However, Grand Teton National Park is not known for its local cuisine and restaurants.

For foodies, Aspen is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. The town hosts many food festivals and there is a growing selection of diverse restaurants. In town you'll find cafes and restaurants that cater to both the local crowd and the travelers who flock to the area during peak seasons.

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 Aspen or Grand Teton National Park Better for Nightlife?

Aspen
Grand Teton National Park

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

The nightlife in Aspen has something for everybody. The people in Aspen know how to have a good time. The nightlife scene includes craft beer, live music, and dancing. There's a local vibe, particularly during the off-season times when the tourist crowds are less.

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 Aspen or Grand Teton National Park Better for Music?

Aspen
Grand Teton National Park

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

Aspen has a thriving music scene. Popular music venues in town include Silver City Mountain Saloon and Belly Up Aspen.

Grand Teton National Park is not a live music destination.

Is Aspen or Grand Teton National Park Better for Resorts?

Aspen
Grand Teton National Park

If luxury resorts are your style, both Aspen and Grand Teton National Park have excellent options.

In Aspen, you'll find some of the region's top resorts. Popular resorts in the area include The Little Nell, Hotel Jerome, and St. Regis Aspen.

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.

Is Aspen or Grand Teton National Park Better for Hiking?

Aspen
Grand Teton National Park

Grand Teton National Park is renowned for its hiking experiences. Also, Aspen is still popular, but not quite as popular for hiking.

Around Grand Teton National Park visitors will find world-class hiking 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.

Many visitors go to Aspen for the hiking trails. During the summer and fall seasons, hiking is a great way to explore Aspen's nearby beauty. Popular trails include the Ute Trail, the Lost Man Trail, and the famous Maroon Bells Scenic Trail.


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

Aspen
Grand Teton National Park

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

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Aspen. There are many great local shops and art galleries where you can pick interesting items or fine art.

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 Aspen or Grand Teton National Park Better for Christmas?

Aspen
Grand Teton National Park

Aspen is a must-visit destination for its Christmas holiday experiences. However, Grand Teton National Park does not offer Christmas activities.

People travel from all around to experience the Christmas season in Aspen. There are a number of beautiful activities that will bring the holiday season to life in the town.

Grand Teton National Park does not offer Christmas activities.

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

Aspen
Grand Teton National Park

Aspen is a great ski town for visiting Christmas markets. However, Grand Teton National Park does not offer Christmas markets.

Many people head to Aspen to see its Christmas markets. The town has a charming Christmas market that is fun to explore and has around 40 vendors.

Grand Teton National Park does not offer Christmas markets.


Is Aspen or Grand Teton National Park Better for Families?

Aspen
Grand Teton National Park

Grand Teton National Park is a great destination for its family-friendly activities. Also, Aspen is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

Grand Teton National Park is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. Kids will enjoy the hiking and wildlife spotting. There's also horseback riding and Ranger Programs that are designed for all ages.

Aspen offers lots of family activities. Families that enjoy skiing together, hiking, rock climbing, and having adventures will enjoy a visit to this town. Aspen Mountain is not a great option for beginning skiers, but further away, Aspen Snowmass offers good beginner slopes.

Is Aspen or Grand Teton National Park Better for Couples?

Aspen
Grand Teton National Park

Grand Teton National Park is renowned for couples. Also, Aspen is still popular, but not quite as popular for romance.

Grand Teton National Park is a great park for couples, as it has plenty to offer. 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.

Aspen is a great ski town if you're traveling as a couple. Aspen is both a popular ski destination as well as an established town. There are many great restaurants and activities that couples can enjoy and the setting is cute and very scenic, making it a beautiful and romantic destination.

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

Aspen
Grand Teton National Park

Grand Teton National Park is renowned for backpackers. However, Aspen is a ski town with minimal options for backpackers and budget travelers.

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

Aspen is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. Because it is both a town and a ski resort, there are a couple of more affordable accommodation options. Even so, this is an expensive destination that isn't always ideal for budget travelers.


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

Aspen
Grand Teton National Park

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

While Aspen offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There are several shuttle buses around the town.

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

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

Aspen
Grand Teton National Park

Aspen is a great ski town for its walkability. However, Grand Teton National Park is not known for its high level of walkability.

Aspen is very walkable. The town is compact enough that it can be explored on foot. If you're planning to head into the mountains to hike, you'll likely 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 Aspen Worth Visiting? and Is Grand Teton National Park Worth Visiting?.

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

How long in Aspen or Grand Teton National Park?

Both Aspen 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 Aspen. Usually, 3-5 days is a good amount of time for Aspen, and 3-7 days is enough time in Grand Teton National Park.

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

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


  • How many days in Aspen or Grand Teton National Park? Ideal Length of Stay
    Aspen 3-5 
    Grand Teton National Park 3-7

One day in Aspen or Grand Teton National Park?

Even though Aspen is a small town, it has plenty of activities to choose from. People enjoy 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. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

In Grand Teton National Park, many people enjoy the that this impressive destination offers. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. Lots of people come for the hiking. This park 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 Aspen or Grand Teton National Park?

Aspen is a small town where visitors enjoy the live music and food. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. Anyone can find something fun to do here. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Grand Teton National Park. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Five days in Aspen or Grand Teton National Park?

Aspen is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have five days, this ski town makes for a great vacation. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. Because of this, five days is usually enough time for a trip here. It offers something for everyone.

Grand Teton National Park is a fun place to experience. In Grand Teton National Park, many people enjoy the that this destination offers. Lots of people come for the hiking. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. This would be the perfect place to spend five days, as it has just the right amount of activities.

A week in Aspen or Grand Teton National Park?

Aspen 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.

In Grand Teton National Park, many people enjoy the that this spectacular destination offers. Plenty of people spend one week in the area when traveling. 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 hiking. One week is often enough time to do most activities.


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


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

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Aspen is $293, 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 Aspen and Grand Teton National Park in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Aspen $170
    Grand Teton National Park $79
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Aspen $340
    Grand Teton National Park $158
Compare Hotels in Aspen and Grand Teton National Park

Looking for a hotel in Aspen 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 Aspen


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

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Aspen $56
    Grand Teton National Park $52

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Aspen

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Aspen:

  • Aspen/Pitkin County Airport (ASE) - Private Transfer Arrival or Departure: $269
  • Aspen hotel or address to Denver Airport (DEN) - Departure Private Transfer: $218

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 Aspen or Grand Teton National Park?

Prices for flights to both Grand Teton National Park and Aspen 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
    Aspen $85
    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:

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

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Aspen $45
    Grand Teton National Park $43

Tours and Activities in Aspen

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

  • Aspen Puzzling Adventure: $35
  • Aspen's DarkSide Ghost Tour: $40
  • Aspen's Off the Beaten Path Scenic Walking Tour: $40
  • Aspen's Off the Beaten Path Tour: $40
  • Aspen's Past to Present Historic Tour: $40
  • City Highlights Walking Tour: $40
  • Dark History Ghost-Themed Guided Walking Tour: $40
  • From Past to Present History Walking Tour: $40
  • Highlights of Aspen Tour: $40

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
    Aspen $20
    Grand Teton National Park $19


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Aspen and Grand Teton National Park, we can see that Aspen 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 Aspen would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Aspen 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 Aspen Expensive? and Is Grand Teton National Park Expensive?.