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

Should you visit Bangor or Grand Canyon 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 Bangor and Grand Canyon 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.

Bangor

Bangor is a laid back, welcoming, and friendly town. This is a charming small with plenty of activities, too. Other reasons to visit include food, shopping, and museums.

Grand Canyon National Park

Grand Canyon National Park is a breathtaking, stunning, and world-renowned national park. You'll find world class beauty here as well. Other popular activities here include hiking.

Bangor and Grand Canyon National Park: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with couples
  • 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 the sunset views


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

Visitors will usually find more to do in Grand Canyon National Park than Bangor, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Grand Canyon National Park is better known for its resorts, hiking, and impressive beauty, while Bangor is more popular for its museums, food, nightlife, shopping, and small town charm. Grand Canyon National Park is more touristy than Bangor and is popular 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. Bangor is well known for its history as a lumber town.

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

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

Bangor
Grand Canyon National Park

Bangor is a good destination for its museums and history. However, Grand Canyon National Park does not have museums and landmarks.

Bangor is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. There are a couple of museums around town that focus on culture and daily life in Maine.

Grand Canyon National Park does not have museums and landmarks.


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

Bangor
Grand Canyon National Park

Bangor is a good destination for its restaurants. However, Grand Canyon National Park is lacking in good options for its restaurant scene.

There are plenty of up and coming restaurants around Bangor. For a small town, there are a range of dining options in the area such as seafood, international cuisine, and quick eats.

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 Bangor or Grand Canyon National Park Better for Nightlife?

Bangor
Grand Canyon National Park

Bangor is a decent place to visit for nightlife. However, Grand Canyon National Park is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Those looking for nightlife will find a few places to hang out in Bangor. There are breweries and bars with laid back vibes and a casual atmosphere.

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

Is Bangor or Grand Canyon National Park Better for Resorts?

Bangor
Grand Canyon National Park

Grand Canyon National Park is a national park with good options for its resorts. However, Bangor 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.

Bangor is not a resort destination.


Is Bangor or Grand Canyon National Park Better for Hiking?

Bangor
Grand Canyon National Park

Grand Canyon National Park is a well-known place for the nearby hiking options. However, Bangor is not a hiking destination.

Grand Canyon National Park is a popular spot for hiking. 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.

Bangor is not a hiking destination.

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

Bangor
Grand Canyon National Park

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

Plenty of visitors enjoy shopping while in Bangor. Head downtown for the widest selection of locally own shops and boutiques.

Grand Canyon National Park is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Bangor or Grand Canyon National Park Better for Families?

Bangor
Grand Canyon National Park

Both Bangor and Grand Canyon National Park are notable to visit with kids.

Bangor is a family-friendly place to visit. You'll find a number of parks and walking trails nearby. There's also fruit picking and playgrounds to explore.

Grand Canyon National Park is a family-friendly town. 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 Bangor or Grand Canyon National Park Better for Couples?

Bangor
Grand Canyon National Park

Grand Canyon National Park is an amazing national park to visit for couples. However, Bangor is not a good town for romance.

Grand Canyon National Park is a great national park for couples, as it has plenty to offer. 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!).

Bangor is not the best destination for a couple to visit. There are local restaurants and several museums in town that couples will enjoy.

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

Bangor
Grand Canyon National Park

Grand Canyon National Park is an amazing national park to visit for backpackers. However, Bangor is not a good town for backpackers and budget travelers.

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

Bangor is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. Budget accommodation is available, but most backpackers don't think the visit here.

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

Bangor
Grand Canyon National Park

Both Bangor and Grand Canyon National Park offer respectable public transit options.

Public transit is generally limited in Bangor. There's a bus system, but visitors usually use their own car to get around.

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


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

Bangor
Grand Canyon National Park

Bangor and Grand Canyon National Park both are notable when exploring on foot.

Bangor is a somewhat walkable town. The downtown is compact and easy to explore on foot.

Grand Canyon National Park is somewhat walkable. 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 Bangor Worth Visiting? and Is Grand Canyon National Park Worth Visiting?.

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

How long in Bangor or Grand Canyon National Park?

It's fun to spend time in either Bangor or Grand Canyon National Park. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Grand Canyon National Park due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 1-2 days is a good amount of time for Bangor, and 1-4 days is enough time in Grand Canyon National Park.

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

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

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


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

One day in Bangor or Grand Canyon National Park?

In Bangor, many people enjoy the food and shopping that this friendly destination offers. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One day is usually enough time to experience most activities.

Many travelers enjoy the when visiting the destination of Grand Canyon National Park. Hikers are also drawn to this area. One day is often enough time to do most activities.

A weekend in Bangor or Grand Canyon National Park?

In Bangor, many people enjoy the shopping and museums 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.

Grand Canyon National Park is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.


Five days in Bangor or Grand Canyon National Park?

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

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Grand Canyon National Park. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A week in Bangor or Grand Canyon National Park?

Travelers enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the town of Bangor. 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.

Travelers enjoy the when visiting the world-renowned destination of Grand Canyon National Park. This national park offers a variety of activities to choose from. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Train & Rail Tours in United States of America, The Best Sightseeing Tours in United States of America, The Best Cruise Tours and Packages in United States of America, and The Best Cultural Tours in United States of America.


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

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Bangor is $197, 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 Bangor and Grand Canyon National Park in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Bangor $114
    Grand Canyon National Park $89
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Bangor $228
    Grand Canyon National Park $178
Compare Hotels in Bangor and Grand Canyon National Park

Looking for a hotel in Bangor 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 Bangor


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

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Bangor $36
    Grand Canyon National Park $43

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Bangor

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Bangor:

  • Private Transfer from Bangor city hotels to Rockland Cruise Port: $69
  • Private Transfer from Bangor Airport(BGR) to Rockland Cruise Port: $69

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

Prices for flights to both Grand Canyon National Park and Bangor 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
    Bangor $54
    Grand Canyon National Park $49

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Bangor $45
    Grand Canyon National Park $35
Typical Entertainment Prices in Bangor

Some typical examples of activities, tours, and entrance ticket prices in Bangor are as follows:


  • Children's Museum (for 4)
    $32

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:

  • Grand Canyon South & East Rim Self-Driving, Walking & Shuttling Tour: $17
  • Grand Canyon and Sedona Self-Guided Driving Tour Bundle: $25
  • Ultimate Arizona Self-Guided Driving and Walking Tour Bundle: $30
  • Take a Scottsdale/Valley Tour in a Retro Party Bus - Old Town/Scottsdale: $69
  • Ultimate American Southwest Self-Guided Driving Tours Bundle: $85
  • Grand Canyon Signature Hummer Tour with Optional Sunset Views: $121
  • Grand Entrance Grand Canyon Tour - Pink Jeep: $122
  • 3 Hour Off-Road Sunset Safari to Grand Canyon with Entrance Gate Detour : $123
  • Desert View Grand Canyon Tour - Pink Jeep: $143
  • 4 Hour Grand Canyon Biblical Creation Morning Rim Tour: $149
  • 4-Hour Biblical Creation + Sunset Tour • Grand Canyon National Park South Rim: $149
  • Hermits Rest Hiking Tour from Tusayan: $165

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Bangor $23
    Grand Canyon National Park $11


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