A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Atlanta vs. Glacier National Park for Backpackers, Food, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Atlanta or Glacier National Park?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Atlanta or Glacier 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.

Atlanta

Atlanta is a sprawling, suburban, and cultural city. It's a large city with plenty of activites for visitors as well. It's also known for nightlife, food, and shopping.

Glacier National Park

Glacier National Park is a gorgeous, stunning, and breathtaking park. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. It's also popular because of the hiking.

Atlanta and Glacier National Park: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for students
  • Very walkable
  • Big city activities
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with backpackers
Pros
  • Nice resorts
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to Going-to-the-Sun Road
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • Less popular for food
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less popular for shopping
  • Less walkable


Is there more to do in Atlanta or Glacier National Park?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Atlanta than Glacier National Park, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Atlanta is better known for its museums, food, nightlife, shopping, and big city activities, while Glacier National Park is more popular for its resorts, hiking, and impressive beauty. Glacier National Park is more touristy than Atlanta and is popular for its miles of hiking trails, impressive glaciers, and pristine lakes. Atlanta is well known for its world class aquarium, its role as host of the 1996 Olympic Games, and its influence during the Civil Rights Movement. Also, Atlanta is famous for the Georgia Aquarium.

How is Atlanta different from Glacier National Park?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Atlanta or Glacier National Park?

Atlanta
Glacier National Park

Atlanta is very popular for its sights and museums. However, Glacier National Park is a mediocre park for its museums and history.

Visitors will find world class museums and historical sights in Atlanta that are not to be missed. The museums range in topic from history to science and art. The country's largest aquarium, the Georgia Aquarium, is in Atlanta as well. It's home to whale sharks, stingrays, and a diversity of marine life. Other museums around town include the Atlanta History Center, the Fernbank Museum of Natural History, the High Museum of Art, the World of Coca Cola, the David J. Sencer CDC Museum, and the Delta Flight Museum. There are also many monuments and sites including the Martin Luther King Jr. National Historic Site.

If you're looking to pass the time, head to a museum or historic sight in Glacier National Park. There are a couple of local museums in the area, but most people head straight for the park.


Is the Food Better in Atlanta or Glacier National Park? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Atlanta
Glacier National Park

Atlanta is notable for its local cuisine and restaurants. However, Glacier National Park is a mediocre park for its restaurants.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Atlanta makes for a great culinary experience. It's a huge city with a wide selection of restaurants including international, local, and classic southern styles. Fried chicken, biscuits, diner food, and barbecue are all popular. For a classic southern breakfast check out The OK Cafe and for a quintessential Atlanta experience go to The Varsity.

You'll find the standard options when it comes to food in Glacier National Park. You'll find several restaurants and cafes both within and near the park, but this is an incredibly crowded park so you'll want to make reservations well in advance.

Is Atlanta or Glacier National Park Better for Nightlife?

Atlanta
Glacier National Park

Atlanta is notable for nightlife. However, Glacier National Park is a mediocre park for nightlife and partying.

Atlanta has plenty to do after the sun goes down. The nightlife scene is diverse with trendy bars, dance clubs, and huge music halls. There are a number of neighborhoods that each have their own atmosphere. For some of the best nightlife check out the upscale bars in Buckhead, the music venues in Midtown, the hipster vibe in Edgewood, or the laid-back atmosphere in Virginia Highland.

Glacier National Park doesn't offer many options. People visit for the scenery, not the nightlife scene.

Is Atlanta or Glacier National Park Better for Resorts?

Atlanta
Glacier National Park

Glacier National Park is a nice place to visit for its luxury resorts. However, Atlanta is not a resort destination.

Glacier National Park has a few great resort options. There are several lodges, cabins, and inns near or within the park, but reservations are recommended well in advance.

Atlanta is not a resort destination.


Is Atlanta or Glacier National Park Better for Hiking?

Atlanta
Glacier National Park

Glacier National Park is a great park for hiking. However, Atlanta is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors go to Glacier National Park for the hiking trails. There are more than 700 miles of trails in the park. For the best experience, you should purchase a permit and explore the parks backcountry. Other popular trails include Highline Trail, Grinnell Glacier Trail, and Avalanche Lake Trail. It's best to start in the early morning as this is a popular park and the trails get busier as the day progresses.

Atlanta is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Atlanta or Glacier National Park?

Atlanta
Glacier National Park

Atlanta is very popular for shopping. However, Glacier National Park is a mediocre park for its shopping opportunities.

Atlanta is a famous shopping destination with plenty of stores. There are a number of great shopping districts around town. Atlantic Station is popular with a movie theater and ice skating. Buckhead has boutique and local vendors and Lenox Square has a large shopping mall.

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

Is Atlanta or Glacier National Park Better for Families?

Atlanta
Glacier National Park

Atlanta is notable for its family-friendly activities. Also, Glacier National Park is not as famous, but is still a good park to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

Atlanta is a very family-friendly place to visit. There is no shortage of playgrounds around town, but a highlight of any trip is a visit to the Georgia Aquarium. It's the largest aquarium in the United States and its home to whale sharks, hammerheads, dolphin shows, and more. It is so much more than just an aquarium, and it truly is a not to be missed experience. Also worth a visit are Zoo Atlanta, the Center of Puppetry Arts, Stone Mountain, Fernbank Museum of Natural History, and the Lego Discovery Center. If you have the chance to see the Atlanta Braves play, that's also a rewarding experience.

Glacier National Park is a family-friendly city. The landscapes are spectacular, but the crowds can be intense, which means it can be hard to find places to pull over and park during the peak seasons. Keep this in mind when you're traveling with kids because you may end up spending more time in the car than you'd expected.


Is Atlanta or Glacier National Park Better for Couples?

Atlanta
Glacier National Park

Glacier National Park is a great park for couples. Also, Atlanta is not as popular, but is still a nice city for romance.

Glacier National Park is a great park if you're traveling as a couple. Drive along the scenic Going-to-the-Sun-Road and take in the truly breathtaking scenery. Many people consider this to be a top destination for a honeymoon and couples will appreciate the impressive hikes, dramatic waterfalls, and adventure-filled activities.

Atlanta is a nice destination for couples. It's a big city, so there are a number of date night activities available such as orchestra concerts, theater shows, and fine dining. The city also has many outdoor areas like Lake Lanier and Piedmont Park. The Georgia Aquarium is world class, and there are other amazing museums around town as well.

Is Atlanta or Glacier National Park Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Atlanta
Glacier National Park

Glacier National Park is terrific for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Atlanta is not as popular, but is still a nice city for backpackers.

A large number of backpackers visit Glacier National Park, as it is a very popular park for budget travelers. The backcountry is truly pristine, and obtaining a Wilderness Permit and getting off-the-beaten-path will help you escape some of the crowds that the park is known for.

Atlanta is a good city to visit for backpackers. While it's usually overlooked by backpackers, there are actually a couple of hostels around town and a surprising number of activities worth experiencing. The city's large airport make it a convenient entry point for international travelers.

Is Atlanta or Glacier National Park Better for Students?

Atlanta
Glacier National Park

Atlanta is notable for students. However, Glacier National Park is not popular with students.

Atlanta is a very popular city for students and younger travelers. There are a number of universities in town such as Emory, Georgia Institute of Technology, Georgia State University, and Morehouse College. The city is sprawling, but it's also full of entertainment and activities that students will enjoy.

Glacier National Park is not popular with students.


Is Atlanta or Glacier National Park Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Atlanta
Glacier National Park

Atlanta and Glacier National Park both offer respectable public transit to get you around.

Public transit is mostly limited in Atlanta. For such a large city, the public transportation system is very limited. MARTA is the main transit authority and there are a few subway lines that cross the city as well as bus routes running around town.

Public transit is generally limited in Glacier National Park. There's a free shuttle along Going-to-the-Sun Road that's available on a first-come, first-served basis, but expect crowds. The road can get quite congested during peak times. There are also tours that take you along the road so you can enjoy the scenery without having to focus on driving.

Is Atlanta or Glacier National Park a more walkable city?

Atlanta
Glacier National Park

Atlanta is a popular place for its walkability. However, Glacier National Park is a mediocre park for its high level of walkability.

Atlanta is somewhat walkable. Parts of the city are walkable, but most of the sights are spread out and require a car to access. Within neighborhoods, there are a few places that are more pedestrian-friendly such as Downtown, Midtown, Virginia Highlands, and Buckhead.

Glacier National Park is not a very walkable city. You'll need a car to get almost anywhere in the park.

For even more information, also check out Is Atlanta Worth Visiting? and Is Glacier National Park Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Glacier National Park or Atlanta?

How long in Atlanta or Glacier National Park?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Atlanta and Glacier National Park. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Atlanta than in Glacier National Park. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Atlanta, and 2-3 days is enough time in Glacier National Park.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Atlanta than Glacier 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 Atlanta.


  • How many days in Atlanta or Glacier National Park? Ideal Length of Stay
    Atlanta 2-4 
    Glacier National Park 2-3

One day in Atlanta or Glacier National Park?

Because Atlanta is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

In Glacier National Park, you'll find . Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. This park offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.


A weekend in Atlanta or Glacier National Park?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Atlanta. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this city. It offers something for everyone.

In Glacier National Park, you'll find . The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Glacier National Park has to offer.

Five days in Atlanta or Glacier National Park?

Atlanta is a fun place to experience. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Glacier National Park is a great place to explore. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

A week in Atlanta or Glacier National Park?

You'll find food and shopping around the diverse big city of Atlanta. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Glacier National Park. Many people enjoy the when visiting Glacier National Park. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Historical Tours in United States of America, The Best 10-Day Tours in United States of America, The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in United States of America, and The Best 2-Week Tours in United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Glacier National Park or Atlanta?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Atlanta is $173, while the average daily cost in Glacier National Park is $127. 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 Atlanta and Glacier National Park in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Atlanta $90
    Glacier National Park $56
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Atlanta $180
    Glacier National Park $112
Compare Hotels in Atlanta and Glacier National Park

Looking for a hotel in Atlanta or Glacier 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 Atlanta


Hotels in Glacier 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: Atlanta Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Atlanta $44
    Glacier National Park $69
Typical Local Transportation Prices in Atlanta

Here are some examples of typical transportation prices from actual travelers in Atlanta:


  • MARTA Subway Ticket
    $4.00

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Atlanta

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

  • Hartsfield Jackson Airport (ATL) to Lithia Springs - Arrival Private Transfer: $33
  • Atlanta Airport (ATL) to Lithia Springs -Arrival Private Transfer: $36
  • Hartsfield Jackson Airport (ATL) to Lithia Springs - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $66
  • Transfer in Executive Private Minivan from Atlanta Downtown to Atlanta Airport: $67
  • Private Arrival Transfer from Atlanta Airport (ATL): $80
  • Private Transfer from Atlanta (ATL) Airport to Atlanta City: $94
  • Hartsfield Jackson Atlanta Airport (ATL) to Atlanta - Arrival Private Transfer: $97
  • Atlanta to Atlanta Airport (ATL) Departure Private Transfer: $97
  • Private Transfer: H. J. Airport ATL to Atlanta in Business Car: $119
  • Departure Transfer: Atlanta to Atlanta Airport ATL by Luxury SUV: $127
  • Departure Transfer: Atlanta to Atlanta Airport ATL in Luxury SUV: $133
  • Arrival Transfer: Atlanta Airport ATL to Atlanta in Luxury SUV: $133

Is it cheaper to fly into Atlanta or Glacier National Park?

Prices for flights to both Glacier National Park and Atlanta 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
    Atlanta $43
    Glacier National Park $28
Typical Food Prices in Atlanta

Here are some examples of typical meal expenses from previous travelers to Atlanta:


  • Fast Food Lunch (for 2)
    $15
  • Lunch
    $20

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Atlanta

For Atlanta, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • 2 Hour Guided Wood Fired Pizza Class in Atlanta: $55
  • City Lights Atlanta Night-Time Tour with Photos & Dinner Stop: $65
  • City Lights Night Tour with Photos & Dinner Stop: $65
  • 2 Hour Historic Market Food Tour and Hands-On Biscuit Class: $70
  • Historic Market Food Tour and Biscuit Cooking Class: $70
  • Ponce City Market 2.5-Hour Weekend Food Tour: $99
  • Food Tour of Inman Park and the Atlanta Beltline: $99

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Glacier National Park

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Glacier National Park.

  • Half Day Whitewater Rafting with Riverside Dinner: $113

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Atlanta $56
    Glacier National Park $34

Tours and Activities in Atlanta

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Atlanta.

  • Civil Rights Self-Guided Audio App Walking Tour: $6.75
  • Self-Guided Audio Walking Tour: $8.50
  • Atlanta Self-Guided Audio Tour: $9.00
  • Olympic Park & Pemberton Place: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $9.99
  • Civil Rights Movement in A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $12
  • Atlanta Scavenger Hunt and Sights Self-Guided Tour: $13
  • Atlanta Scavenger Hunt and Sights Self-Guided Tour: $13
  • SkyView Ferris Wheel Ticket: $16
  • Atlanta Scavenger Hunt Adventure: $18
  • World of Coca-Cola Skip-the-Ticket-Line Entry: $23
  • Skip the Ticket Line: World of Coca-Cola Admission in Atlanta: $23
  • LEGO® Discovery Center Admission Ticket: $28

Tours and Activities in Glacier National Park

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Glacier National Park are as follows:

  • Combo Tour: Driving and Snowshoe Trek of Glacier National Park: $220
  • Driving Tour in Glacier National Park: $220
  • Full Day Glacier National Park Whitewater Rafting Adventure - With Lunch!: $152
  • Full Day Whitewater Adventure Trip with Included Lunch: $157
  • Glacier National Park Self-Guided Driving Audio Tour: $17
  • Half Day Bike and Hike Tour in around Whitefish: $175
  • Half-Day Glacier National Park Whitewater Rafting Adventure: $87
  • Self Guided Bike Tour in Glacier National Park : $65
  • Self-Guided Audio Driving Tour in Glacier National Park: $12

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Atlanta $17
    Glacier National Park $8.41

Sample the Local Flavors in Atlanta

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Atlanta:

  • Drag Queen Guided Pub Crawl and Cabaret Show: $36
  • ATLANTA Yes, Queen! Drag Queen Pub Crawl : $40
  • Half-Day Wine Tastings in the North Georgia Mountains : $115
  • North Georgia Mountains Two Vineyard Wine Tasting Tour: $137
  • Bartram Trail Hike plus Wine Tasting: $159
  • North Georgia Mountains Three Vineyard Wine Tasting Tour: $165
  • North Georgia Mountains Private Three Vineyard Wine Tasting Tour: $180


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

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


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