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

Should you visit Berkeley 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 Berkeley 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.

Berkeley

Berkeley is a quirky, progressive, and diverse city. It's a gorgeous place to visit. It's also known for nightlife, food, and shopping.

Glacier National Park

Glacier National Park is a gorgeous, stunning, and breathtaking park. You'll find world class beauty here as well. Other popular activities here include hiking.

Berkeley 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 backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Good public transit
  • Very walkable
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
  • Public transit not as usable
  • Less walkable


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

Visitors will usually find more to do in Glacier National Park than Berkeley, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Glacier National Park is better known for its resorts, hiking, and impressive beauty, while Berkeley is more popular for its museums & sights, food, nightlife, and shopping. Glacier National Park is more touristy than Berkeley and is known for its miles of hiking trails, impressive glaciers, and pristine lakes. Also, Glacier National Park is famous for Going-to-the-Sun Road. Berkeley is well known for its progressive and liberal mindset as well as its farmer's markets and local boutiques.

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

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

Berkeley
Glacier National Park

Berkeley is notable for its sights and museums. However, Glacier National Park is a mediocre park for its museums and history.

Berkeley offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. There are a wide range of museums around town, many of which are affiliated with the university. There are natural history museums, art museums, cultural museums, as well as historical and science museums.

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 Berkeley or Glacier National Park? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Berkeley
Glacier National Park

Berkeley 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, Berkeley makes for a great culinary experience. There's a huge diversity of restaurants that range from international to California flavors. There are also eateries that cater to the student population, as well as fine dining and everything in between. You'll also find many farmer's markets, vegan options, and restaurants that use locally sourced ingredients.

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 Berkeley or Glacier National Park Better for Nightlife?

Berkeley
Glacier National Park

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

Berkeley has plenty to do after the sun goes down. With its large student population, you'll find no shortage of nightlife activities around town. There are bars and pubs as well as live music venues and plenty of unique experiences.

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

Is Berkeley or Glacier National Park Better for Resorts?

Berkeley
Glacier National Park

Glacier National Park is a nice place to visit for its resorts. However, Berkeley 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.

Berkeley is not a resort destination.


Is Berkeley or Glacier National Park Better for Hiking?

Berkeley
Glacier National Park

Glacier National Park is notable for the nearby hiking options. However, Berkeley is not a hiking destination.

Glacier National Park is a popular spot for hiking. 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.

Berkeley is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Berkeley or Glacier National Park?

Berkeley
Glacier National Park

Berkeley is notable for shopping. However, Glacier National Park is a mediocre park for its shopping opportunities.

Berkeley is an extremely popular place for shoppers. Quirky and local is what shopping in Berkeley is all about. There are also plenty of thrift stores and farmer's markets. Head to Fourth Street or Telegraph Avenue for some of the most interesting shopping opportunities.

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 Berkeley or Glacier National Park Better for Families?

Berkeley
Glacier National Park

Berkeley and Glacier National Park are both notable destinations for the whole family.

Berkeley is a family-friendly place to visit. There are many outdoor places to explore with kids like Tilden Park or UC Botanical Garden. There are also science museums, nature centers, and plenty of kid-friendly restaurants.

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 Berkeley or Glacier National Park Better for Couples?

Berkeley
Glacier National Park

Glacier National Park is notable for couples. Also, Berkeley is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for romance.

Glacier National Park is a very popular place to visit for couples. 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.

Berkeley is a nice destination for couples. There's a wonderful mix of cultural activities and outdoor parks that you can explore. There's the Berkeley Rose Garden, the Berkeley Repertory Theatre, and many charming restaurants.

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

Berkeley
Glacier National Park

Glacier National Park is renowned for backpackers. Also, Berkeley is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Glacier National Park is a very popular park to visit for backpackers. 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.

Berkeley is very popular with the backpacker crowd. With its eclectic and alternative vibe, backpackers will find their place in this city. There's also a huge student population and a couple of hostels in the area.

Is Berkeley or Glacier National Park Better for Students?

Berkeley
Glacier National Park

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

Berkeley is a very popular city for students and younger travelers. University of California, Berkeley is a well reviewed university that attracts a progressive and motivated student population. The city is an expensive, but very rewarding place to study with many activities and opportunities for students.

Glacier National Park is not popular with students.


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

Berkeley
Glacier National Park

Berkeley is very popular for its public transit. However, Glacier National Park is a mediocre park for times when you don't have a car.

Berkeley has an effecient and thorough public transportation system which can take you anywhere in the city. It's located in the San Francisco Bay Area, and it has access to buses and several BART stations.

Public transit is mostly 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 Berkeley or Glacier National Park a more walkable city?

Berkeley
Glacier National Park

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

It is easy to get around Berkeley on foot. Most of Berkeley is very walkable, particularly the parts around the university.

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 Berkeley Worth Visiting? and Is Glacier National Park Worth Visiting?.

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

How long in Berkeley or Glacier National Park?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Berkeley and Glacier National Park. In our opinion, Berkeley has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Berkeley than Glacier National Park. However, 2-3 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

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

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


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

One day in Berkeley or Glacier National Park?

In Berkeley, you'll find shopping and museums. 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.

The beautiful park of Glacier National Park offers . Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.


A weekend in Berkeley or Glacier National Park?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Berkeley. 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.

Glacier National Park is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this park makes for a great vacation. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Glacier National Park, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Berkeley or Glacier National Park?

Berkeley 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 popular choice for travelers. Five days is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A week in Berkeley or Glacier National Park?

You'll find food and shopping around the progressive destination of Berkeley. 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.

Glacier National Park is a great place to explore. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This park offers something for everyone.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Anchorage, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Los Angeles, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from New York City, and The Best 2-Week Tours from New York City.


Which place is cheaper, Glacier National Park or Berkeley?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Berkeley is $190, 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 Berkeley and Glacier National Park in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Berkeley $131
    Glacier National Park $56
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Berkeley $262
    Glacier National Park $112
Compare Hotels in Berkeley and Glacier National Park

Looking for a hotel in Berkeley 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 Berkeley


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: Berkeley Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Berkeley $30
    Glacier National Park $69

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Berkeley

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Berkeley:

  • Oakland Airport (OAK) to Oakland hotel or address - Private Arrival Transfer: $45
  • Oakland hotel or address to Oakland Airport (OAK) - Departure Private Transfer: $45
  • Oakland Airport (OAK) to San Francisco hotel/address - Private Arrival Transfer: $66
  • Private Arrival Transfer from Oakland Airport OAK: $81
  • Oakland Airport (OAK) to Oakland hotel or address - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $90
  • Private Arrival Transfer from Oakland Airport (OAK) to Oakland: $93
  • Private Departure Transfer to Oakland Airport OAK: $97
  • Oakland Airport (OAK) to San Francisco - Round-Trip Private Car Transfer: $131
  • Private Transfer: Oakland International Airport to Hotel: $200
  • Arrival Transfer from Oakland Airport OAK to San Francisco by SUV: $232

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

Prices for flights to both Glacier National Park and Berkeley 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
    Berkeley $36
    Glacier National Park $28
Typical Food Prices in Berkeley

Some typical examples of dining costs in Berkeley are as follows:


  • Chocolates at Sweet Dreams
    $4.46

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Berkeley

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

  • Best of North Berkeley Food Tour: $130
  • Black Food Tour - Downtown Oakland: $150

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Berkeley $30
    Glacier National Park $34

Tours and Activities in Berkeley

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Berkeley are as follows:

  • Ruth Bancroft Garden General Admission Ticket: $12
  • Oakland Athletics Baseball Game Ticket at RingCentral Coliseum: $13
  • Scavenger Hunt Adventure in Berkeley by Zombie Scavengers: $16
  • 2 Hours Private Walking Tour in Berkeley: $20
  • Comedy Oakland at The Washington Inn Show Tickets: $20
  • Self-Guided Oakland Tour in an Urban Excursion: $20
  • Unique Scavenger Hunt Experience in Antioch by Zombie Scavengers: $20
  • Redwoods of Marin and Mt. Tamalpais Walking Tour with Local Guide: $59
  • Historic Houseboat Tour: $65
  • Small Group East Bay Beer Tour: $105
  • Oakland's Temescal Tastes Tour: $120
  • Classic Sausalito Wooden Boat Tour: $135

Tours and Activities in Glacier National Park

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

  • Glacier National Park Self-Guided Driving Audio Tour: $17
  • Self-Guided Audio Driving Tour in Glacier National Park: $20
  • Self Guided Bike Tour in Glacier National Park : $65
  • Half-Day Glacier National Park Whitewater Rafting Adventure: $87
  • LED Illuminated Sunset Kayaking Tour Near Glacier National Park : $95
  • Whitefish Guided Bike and Hike Tour : $175
  • Driving Tour in Glacier National Park: $220
  • Combo Tour: Driving and Snowshoe Trek of Glacier National Park: $220
  • Winter Glacier National Park Scenic Driving Tour: $260

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Berkeley $13
    Glacier National Park $8.41

Sample the Local Flavors in Berkeley

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

  • Guided Wine Tasting at Berkeley Wineries with Local Sommelière : $175
  • Guided Wine Tasting with Local Sommelière: $175

Sample the Local Flavors in Glacier National Park

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Glacier National Park:

  • Private Flathead Valley Brewery Tour: $150


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