A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Boston vs. Ketchikan for Attractions, Food, Families, and Nightlife

Should you visit Boston or Ketchikan?

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 Ketchikan. 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 proud, loyal, and historic 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.

Ketchikan

Ketchikan is a local, scenic, and quaint town. It's a very nice small town not to be missed. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for food, hiking, and shopping.

Boston and Ketchikan: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Boston or Ketchikan?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Boston. Although Boston and Ketchikan are both popular with visitors, Boston has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Boston is more popular for its museums & sights, theatre productions, nightlife, music, beaches, historical sights, christmas markets, big city activities, and quaint atmosphere, while Ketchikan is known for its food, hiking, small town charm, and impressive beauty. Boston is popular for its enthusiastic sports fans, influential history, beautiful parks, and world-class universities. It is also home to The Freedom Trail. Ketchikan is popular for its salmon fishing, beautiful natural environment, and strong sense of local culture.

How is Boston different from Ketchikan?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Ketchikan 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 Ketchikan?

Boston is renowned for its sights and museums. Also, Ketchikan is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit 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.

Ketchikan offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. There are a few local museums in town such as the Tongass Historical Museum and the Totem Heritage Center.

Is Boston or Ketchikan Better for Theater?

Boston is notable for theatre. However, Ketchikan is not a theatre destination.

Boston has a number of performance venues where you can see a variety of shows. 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.

Ketchikan is not a theatre destination.

Is the Food Better in Boston or Ketchikan? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Ketchikan is an unbeatable place for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Boston is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its restaurants.

Eat your way through Ketchikan, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. It's known as the salmon capital of the world for good reason. You can expect some of the freshest seafood around with many local restaurants serving up fresh Dungeness Crab, Alaska King Crab, and Alaskan King Salmon. It's a huge fishing destination and the cuisine reflects that, but even if you're looking for a landlover's menu, you'll find a number of good dishes.

Boston has a huge number of terrific restaurants. 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.

Is Boston or Ketchikan Better for Nightlife?

Boston is notable for nightlife. However, Ketchikan is a mediocre town 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.

Those looking for nightlife will find a few places to hang out in Ketchikan. Because most visitors arrive by cruise ship, there's a more local vibe to the nightlife scene. You'll find a few local bars around town where you can enjoy a drink and good conversation.

Is Boston or Ketchikan Better for Music?

Boston is very good for live music. However, Ketchikan is not a live music destination.

Music lovers will find a few good venues in Boston. Popular music venues include Lizard Lounge, Blue Hills Bank Pavilion, and The Middle East.

Ketchikan is not a live music destination.

Is Boston or Ketchikan Better for Beaches?

Boston is a moderate city for its beaches. However, Ketchikan 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.

Ketchikan is not a beach destination.

Is Boston or Ketchikan Better for its Old Town?

Boston is renowned for its historic old town. However, Ketchikan does not have a historic old town.

The old town of Boston is one of the most recognized in the world. 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.

Ketchikan does not have a historic old town.

Is Boston or Ketchikan Better for Hiking?

Ketchikan is an unbeatable place for the nearby hiking options. However, Boston is not a hiking destination.

Ketchikan is well-known for its hiking and trekking. You'll find many hikes that will take you through the local vegetation or to impressive viewpoints. Some hikes involve challenging climbs while others are more relaxing. Some visitors prefer to hire a guide to the lead them through the Alaskan wilderness, but the most popular and easier trails are usually well marked.

Boston is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Boston or Ketchikan?

Both Boston and Ketchikan are good shopping destinations.

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.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Ketchikan. As tourism has grown, the shopping in downtown Ketchikan has shifted from locally-oriented venders to jewelry and souvenir stores. Many shops are only open during the summer months, and you'll find the more local shops outside of town.

Is Boston or Ketchikan Better for Christmas?

Boston is notable for its Christmas activities. However, Ketchikan 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.

Ketchikan does not offer Christmas activities.

Is Boston or Ketchikan Better for Christmas Markets?

Boston is notable for its Christmas markets. However, Ketchikan does not offer Christmas markets.

Boston has a lively atmosphere around its Christmas markets. There are a number of European style Christmas markets that pop up during the holiday season around town.

Ketchikan does not offer Christmas markets.

Is Boston or Ketchikan Better for Families?

Boston is renowned for its family-friendly activities. Also, Ketchikan is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

Boston is one of the most popular family destinations. 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.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Ketchikan is very family-friendly. There are a number of kid-friendly activities and tours, but do note that many tours book up fully with cruise ship passengers. Any tours you wish to do should be arranged well in advance. Popular kid-friendly activities include the Great Alaskan Lumberjack Show, Misty Fjords, and a visit to Totem Bight State Historical Park. Everyone will enjoy learning about the area's history and nature at the Southeast Alaska Discovery Center. And anyone who enjoys the show "The Most Dangerous Catch" will appreciate the Bering Sea Crab Fishermen's Tour.

Is Boston or Ketchikan Better for Couples?

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

Ketchikan is a very popular place to visit for couples. Couples who enjoy natural beauty, hiking, and wildlife will appreciate their time here. There are many opportunities for fishing and a plethora of seafood restaurants in the area that take advantage of this past time.

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 Ketchikan Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Both Boston and Ketchikan are good destinations for backpackers.

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

Plenty of budget travelers visit Ketchikan. While most visitors arrive by cruise ship, for those travel independently will appreciate the hostel in town.

Is Boston or Ketchikan Better for Students?

Boston is renowned for students. However, Ketchikan is not popular with students.

Students come from all over the world to visit 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.

Ketchikan is not popular with students.

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

Boston is renowned for its public transit. However, Ketchikan is a mediocre town for times when you don't have a car.

Boston has a great public transit system. There's the T, which is the subway, as well as a trolley, bus, and water transportation system.

Public transit is mostly limited in Ketchikan. There are buses that travel through town.

Is Boston or Ketchikan a more walkable city?

Boston is renowned for its walkability. Also, Ketchikan is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit 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.

Ketchikan is a very walkable city. The downtown is relatively compact and walkable.

For even more information, also check out Is Boston Worth Visiting? and Is Ketchikan Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Ketchikan or Boston?

How long in Boston or Ketchikan?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Boston and Ketchikan. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Boston than in Ketchikan. Usually, 3-5 days is a good amount of time for Boston, and 1-3 days is enough time in Ketchikan.

Families should spend more time in Boston than Ketchikan. 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 Ketchikan. 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 Ketchikan 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.

One day in Boston or Ketchikan?

People visit Boston because there is so much to do. Visiting the old town is also a must. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Many travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the destination of Ketchikan. Hikers are also drawn to this area. One day is often enough time to do most activities.

A weekend in Boston or Ketchikan?

People visit Boston because there is so much to do. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Ketchikan 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 Ketchikan?

People visit Boston because there is so much to do. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this city makes for a great vacation. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Most people head to the area for the museums. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer.

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

Boston is a popular choice for travelers. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. One week 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. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the local destination of Ketchikan. This town 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 Sightseeing Tours in United States of America, The Best Cruise Tours and Packages in United States of America, The Best Cultural Tours in United States of America, and The Best Camping Tours in United States of America.

When comparing the travel costs between Boston and Ketchikan, we can see that Boston is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Since both cities are in North America, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

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

Which is Bigger, Boston or Ketchikan?

Boston has a larger population, and is about 80 times larger than the population of Ketchikan. When comparing the sizes of Boston and Ketchikan, keep in mind that a larger population does not always imply the destination has more attractions or better activities. So, always research the type of place that you want to visit along with the activities and attractions that interest you.

When is the best time to visit Boston or Ketchikan?

Both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. And since both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Boston or Ketchikan in the Summer?

Both Ketchikan and Boston are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Boston for the beaches, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Ketchikan in the summer for the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences.

Boston is much warmer than Ketchikan in the summer. The daily temperature in Boston averages around 73°F (23°C) in July, and Ketchikan fluctuates around 58°F (15°C).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Ketchikan. In July, Boston usually receives less rain than Ketchikan. Boston gets 2.9 inches (74 mm) of rain, while Ketchikan receives 7.6 inches (193 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Boston or Ketchikan in the Autumn?

Both Ketchikan and Boston during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Boston in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, most visitors come to Ketchikan for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

In the autumn, Boston is much warmer than Ketchikan. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Boston in October average around 54°F (12°C), and Ketchikan averages at about 46°F (8°C).

Ketchikan gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Boston usually gets less rain in October than Ketchikan. Boston gets 3.3 inches (84 mm) of rain, while Ketchikan receives 22.9 inches (581 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Boston or Ketchikan in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Boston and Ketchikan. Most visitors come to Boston for the museums, the Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Ketchikan because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

The weather in Ketchikan can be very cold. Boston can be very cold during winter. In January, Boston is generally much colder than Ketchikan. Daily temperatures in Boston average around 29°F (-2°C), and Ketchikan fluctuates around 34°F (1°C).

Ketchikan receives a lot of rain in the winter. In January, Boston usually receives less rain than Ketchikan. Boston gets 3.4 inches (87 mm) of rain, while Ketchikan receives 14.9 inches (379 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Boston or Ketchikan in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Boston as well as Ketchikan. The spring months attract visitors to Boston because of the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty. Also, the small town charm and the natural beauty are the main draw to Ketchikan this time of year.

Boston is a little warmer than Ketchikan in the spring. The daily temperature in Boston averages around 48°F (9°C) in April, and Ketchikan fluctuates around 44°F (6°C).

It's quite rainy in Ketchikan. Boston usually gets less rain in April than Ketchikan. Boston gets 3.5 inches (89 mm) of rain, while Ketchikan receives 11.3 inches (286 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Ketchikan and Boston