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

Should you visit Boston or Glacier 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 Boston and Glacier 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.

Boston

Boston is a classic, proud, and loyal city. It's a large city with plenty of activites for visitors as well. It's a gorgeous place to visit. This is a quaint and attractive place to visit, too. It's also known for nightlife, live music, and food.

Glacier National Park

Glacier National Park is a stunning, breathtaking, and gorgeous park. You'll find world class beauty here as well. It's also known for hiking.

Boston and Glacier National Park: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Numerous theater shows
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Popular beach
  • Scenic old town
  • Popular at Christmas
  • Known for Christmas markets
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for students
  • Good public transit
  • Very walkable
  • Big city activities
  • Home to the Freedom Trail
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with backpackers
Pros
  • Nice resorts
  • Good for hiking
  • 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 family-friendly
  • Public transit not as usable
  • Less walkable


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

Tourists will generally find more to do in Boston. Although Boston and Glacier National Park are both popular with visitors, Boston has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Boston is more popular for its museums, theatre productions, food, nightlife, music, beaches, historical sights, shopping, christmas markets, big city activities, and quaint atmosphere, while Glacier National Park is known for its resorts, hiking, and impressive beauty. Glacier National Park is more touristy than Boston and is known for its miles of hiking trails, impressive glaciers, and pristine lakes. Boston is popular for its enthusiastic sports fans, influential history, beautiful parks, and world-class universities. It is also home to The Freedom Trail.

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

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

Boston
Glacier National Park

Boston 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 Boston that are not to be missed. The city itself feels like a living museum. It is famous for Faneuil Hall, the Museum of Fine Arts, the Isabelle Stewart Gardner Museum, the USS Constitution, as well as the many sites along the Freedom Trail. There are also many museums on the campuses of the world renowned universities in the city.

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 Boston or Glacier National Park Better for Theater?

Boston
Glacier National Park

Boston is notable for theatre. However, Glacier National Park is not a theatre destination.

While in town, many visitors enjoy seeing a show in Boston. The city has many historic, beautifully restored theaters where you can enjoy a show. Head to the theater district for some of the most famous venues.

Glacier National Park is not a theatre destination.

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

Boston
Glacier National Park

Boston 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, Boston makes for a great culinary experience. There are many local dishes that utilize fresh caught seafood and comfort food flavors. The cuisine also takes advantage of the city's Italian and Irish populations. Famous local foods include New England Clam Chowder, lobster rolls, and baked beans. You'll find hearty sandwiches and filling meals that warm your soul.

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 Boston or Glacier National Park Better for Nightlife?

Boston
Glacier National Park

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

Boston has plenty to do after the sun goes down. The city is known for its breweries, craft beer, and vibrant university neighborhoods. It also hosts regular outdoor movies and world class sporting events. The nightlife scene is varied, with some areas catering to the student population and other areas focused on the professional or sport-loving crowds.

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


Is Boston or Glacier National Park Better for Music?

Boston
Glacier National Park

Boston is a popular place for live music. However, Glacier National Park is not a live music destination.

The music scene in Boston is active and vibrant. Popular music venues include Lizard Lounge, Blue Hills Bank Pavilion, and The Middle East.

Glacier National Park is not a live music destination.

Is Boston or Glacier National Park Better for Resorts?

Boston
Glacier National Park

Glacier National Park is a good destination for its resorts. However, Boston is not a resort destination.

Glacier National Park has a handful of resorts to choose from. There are several lodges, cabins, and inns near or within the park, but reservations are recommended well in advance.

Boston is not a resort destination.

Is Boston or Glacier National Park Better for Beaches?

Boston
Glacier National Park

Boston is a moderate city for its beaches. However, Glacier National Park is not a beach destination.

Boston is a good spot to see the beach. There are a few urban beaches in the greater Boston area that you can explore on a nice day.

Glacier National Park is not a beach destination.


Is Boston or Glacier National Park Better for its Old Town?

Boston
Glacier National Park

Boston is very popular for its historic old town. However, Glacier National Park does not have a historic old town.

Boston has a world-famous historical area. Boston is famous for its Freedom Trail, which takes visitors around the city's rich history. The oldest parts of the city are known as Boston Proper and include the neighborhoods of Beacon Hill, Historic Downtown, the North End, and the West End.

Glacier National Park does not have a historic old town.

Is Boston or Glacier National Park Better for Hiking?

Boston
Glacier National Park

Glacier National Park is notable for the nearby hiking options. However, Boston 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.

Boston is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Boston or Glacier National Park?

Boston
Glacier National Park

Boston is a popular place for shopping. However, Glacier National Park is a mediocre park for its shopping opportunities.

Boston is a great destination for shopping. Head to Back Bay for some of the best high end shops. There are luxury brands and boutique venues that sell local art or crafts.

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 Boston or Glacier National Park Better for Christmas?

Boston
Glacier National Park

Boston is notable for its Christmas activities. However, Glacier National Park does not offer Christmas activities.

Boston is an extremely popular place to visit during the Christmas season. Christmas comes to life in the city with its Christmas Trees, holiday shows, and festivals.

Glacier National Park does not offer Christmas activities.

Is Boston or Glacier National Park Better for Christmas Markets?

Boston
Glacier National Park

Boston is notable for its Christmas markets. However, Glacier National Park does not offer Christmas markets.

Boston is a popular destination to visit Christmas markets. There are a number of European style Christmas markets that pop up during the holiday season around town.

Glacier National Park does not offer Christmas markets.

Is Boston or Glacier National Park Better for Families?

Boston
Glacier National Park

Boston is very popular 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.

As it has a large number of activities for kids, Boston is a very family-friendly destination. It's filled with history, but there are also many activities for kids who need a break from all of the historical stuff. Popular activities for all ages include the Museum of Science, the New England Aquarium, and exploring the waterfront, gardens, and parks around town.

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 Boston or Glacier National Park Better for Couples?

Boston
Glacier National Park

Glacier National Park is notable for romance. Also, Boston is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its romantic activities.

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.

Boston makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Couples who enjoy history will enjoy exploring the city. Take a swan boat ride in the Public Garden and wander the unique route along the Freedom Trail. There are also many sporting and entertainment options around town.

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

Boston
Glacier National Park

Glacier National Park is an unbeatable place for backpackers. Also, Boston is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Glacier National Park is a mecca for backpackers and 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.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Boston. Like most larger American cities, the city has a handful of hostels to choose from.

Is Boston or Glacier National Park Better for Students?

Boston
Glacier National Park

Boston is very popular for students. However, Glacier National Park is not popular with students.

Many students frequent Boston. It is a city of students, with a number of world renowned universities located here including Harvard University, Boston College, and MIT. Many neighborhoods are filled with students and there are many student-centered activities around town including festivals and an active nightlife scene.

Glacier National Park is not popular with students.


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

Boston
Glacier National Park

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

Boston has an effecient and thorough public transportation system which can take you anywhere in the city. There's the T, which is the subway, as well as a trolley, bus, and water transportation system.

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 Boston or Glacier National Park a more walkable city?

Boston
Glacier National Park

Boston 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 Boston on foot. The many parks and compact neighborhoods are best explored on foot.

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

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

How long in Boston or Glacier National Park?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Boston and Glacier National Park. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Boston than in Glacier National Park. Usually, 3-5 days is a good amount of time for Boston, and 2-3 days is enough time in Glacier National Park.

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

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

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


  • How many days in Boston or Glacier National Park? Ideal Length of Stay
    Boston 3-5 
    Glacier National Park 2-3

One day in Boston or Glacier National Park?

Because Boston is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. One reason most visitors come is for the 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.

Many travelers enjoy the when visiting the destination of Glacier National Park. Hikers are also drawn to this area. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.


A weekend in Boston or Glacier National Park?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Boston. One reason most visitors come is for the museums. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. It offers something for everyone.

Glacier 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 Boston or Glacier National Park?

Boston is a fun place to experience. One reason most visitors come is for the museums. If you have five days, this is a great place to go. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. In five days, you should have a good grasp of this city. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Glacier 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 Boston or Glacier National Park?

You'll find live music and food around the proud big city of Boston. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

Travelers enjoy the when visiting the stunning destination of Glacier National Park. This 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 10-Day Tours in United States of America, The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in United States of America, The Best 2-Week Tours in United States of America, and The Best 3-Week Tours in United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Glacier National Park or Boston?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Boston is $255, 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 Boston and Glacier National Park in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Boston $166
    Glacier National Park $56
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Boston $332
    Glacier National Park $112
Compare Hotels in Boston and Glacier National Park

Looking for a hotel in Boston 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 Boston


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: Boston Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Boston $37
    Glacier National Park $69
Typical Local Transportation Prices in Boston

Some typical examples of transportation costs in Boston are as follows:


  • Taxi
    $35
  • Subway Daily Pass
    $9.00

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Boston

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Boston:

  • Private Departure Transfer to Boston Airport BOS: $28
  • Private Arrival Transfer from (BOS) Boston Airport: $28
  • Cruiseport Boston to Boston Airport (BOS) - Departure Transfer: $38
  • Boston Logan Intl Airport (BOS) to Flynn Cruise Port - Arrival Private Transfer: $38
  • Boston Airport(BOS) to Flynn Cruiseport Boston - Arrival Transfer: $38
  • Transfer in private vehicle from Boston Airport (BOS) to City Downtown: $69
  • Transfer in private vehicle from Boston Downtown to Boston Airport (BOS): $69
  • Boston to Boston Logan Airport (BOS) - Departure Private Transfer: $79
  • Boston Logan Airport (BOS) to Boston - Arrival Private Transfer: $79
  • Departure Private Transfer Boston to Boston Airport BOS Business-Luxury Vehicle: $84
  • Private Transfer from Boston City Hotels to Newport Cruise Port: $88
  • Private transfer: Boston to Boston Airport (BOS): $96

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

Prices for flights to both Glacier National Park and Boston 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
    Boston $49
    Glacier National Park $28

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Boston

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

  • AM Coffee Walks with Salem Food Tours: $34
  • Boston's North End Pizza & History Walking Food Tour: $49
  • North End Pizza Tour with 3 Slices and Cannoli: $55
  • North End Food Experience with Pizza, Meats & Cheese: $68
  • Boston Delicious Donut Adventure & Walking Food Tour: $70
  • Buffet Lunch or Dinner Cruise on Boston Harbor: $77
  • Ultimate Food Tour of North End & Public Market: $79
  • Boston's North End Small Group Food Tour : $81
  • Ultimate Boston Food Tour: North End & Boston Public Market: $89
  • Union Square, Somerville Neighborhood Food Tour: $90
  • Boston Harbor: Gourmet Brunch or Dinner Cruise: $108
  • Local Gems of the South End Neighborhood Food Tour: $110

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.
    Boston $33
    Glacier National Park $34
Typical Entertainment Prices in Boston

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


  • Two Tickets to Celtics Game
    $101
  • Duck Tour
    $32

Tours and Activities in Boston

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

  • Underground Railroad Audio App Self-Guided Tour: $5.00
  • Self Guided Audio Tour 'Hawthorne's Haunts' Haunted Walking Tour Salem: $5.00
  • Self Guided "Historic Boston Downtown Freedom Trail" Audio/GPS Walking Tour: $5.00
  • Self-Guided Smartphone Ghost Walking Tour in Boston: $5.95
  • Self-Guided Freedom Trail Walking Audio Tour w/ App: $5.99
  • Self-Guided Smartphone Ghost Walking Tour in Salem: $5.99
  • App Self-guided tours with Audioguide Boston: $6.42
  • Self-Guided Boston's Beacon Hill Underground Railroad Audio Tour Walking Tour: $7.75
  • Self Guided Classic Freedom Trail Location Aware (GPS) Walking Audio Tour: $7.75
  • Boston History and Highlights: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $7.99
  • Charlestown: Bunker Hill Monument Self-Guide Walking Tour: $7.99
  • City History and Highlights Audio App Walking Tour: $7.99

Tours and Activities in Glacier National Park

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

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

For more ideas for your next trip, check out Free Things to Do in Boston, Must-See Monuments and Memorials In Boston, and The Best Things To Do in Boston with Kids.


Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Boston $27
    Glacier National Park $8.41

Sample the Local Flavors in Boston

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Boston:

  • Boston Haunted Pub Crawl: $30
  • Haunted Pub Crawl of Historic Pubs and Taverns: $30
  • Boston Ghosts Boos and Brews Haunted Pub Crawl : $34
  • Salem Booze and Brews Haunted Pub Crawl by US Ghost Adventures: $35
  • Boos and Brews Haunted Pub Crawl: $35
  • History Pub Crawl Tour Along the Freedom Trail: $59
  • Boston Small-Group Freedom Trail History Tour Pub Crawl: $60
  • Boston Signature Guided Brewery Tour: $105
  • Guided Craft Brewery Tour with a Snack: $105


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