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

Should you visit Charleston or Ketchikan?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Charleston or Ketchikan, 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.

Charleston

Charleston is a charming, southern, and quaint coastal town. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It also has that perfectly quaint feel that is like no other place. It's also known for nightlife, live music, and food.

Ketchikan

Ketchikan is a quaint, local, and scenic town. It's a very nice small town not to be missed. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. Other popular activities here include food, hiking, and shopping.

Charleston and Ketchikan: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Charleston or Ketchikan?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Charleston than Ketchikan, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Charleston is better known for its nightlife, music, resorts, beaches, historical sights, shopping, christmas markets, and quaint atmosphere, while Ketchikan is more popular for its hiking and small town charm. Charleston is well known for its historic city market, low-country cuisine, Civil War history, and antebellum houses. Also, Charleston is famous for The Waterfront Park. Ketchikan is well known for its salmon fishing, beautiful natural environment, and strong sense of local culture.

How is Charleston different from Ketchikan?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Charleston or Ketchikan?

For an educational experience, head to a museum or a notable sight in either Charleston or Ketchikan.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Charleston. This city is famous for its many historic churches and plantations. The plantations are open to visit and will educate you on the city's past, which is heavily involved in slavery. You can also visit Fort Sumter National Monument by boat or take a tour of the USS Yorktown.

Ketchikan is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. There are a few local museums in town such as the Tongass Historical Museum and the Totem Heritage Center.

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

Picking the best cuisine and restaurants between Charleston and Ketchikan can be difficult as they are each terrific in their own way.

Known for it's food and restaurant scene, Charleston is always at the top of any foodie's travel list. Food lovers will enjoy the city's low country classics. There are many local restaurants in town that serve southern specialties. You can also head a bit out of the town center if you want a waterfront restaurant. Local favorites include she-crab soup, shrimp and grits, cornbread, and fried green tomatoes.

Many restaurants in Ketchikan have been singled out for their culinary prowess. 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.

Is Charleston or Ketchikan Better for Nightlife?

Charleston is very good for nightlife. However, Ketchikan is a mediocre town for nightlife and partying.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Charleston. As a college town, there are plenty of bars and nightclubs around town. There's also a lively music scene. Head to the areas near the college for the most affordable and active nightlife. Popular clubs in town include Cure Night Club, Deco Nightclub, and Mynt.

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 Charleston or Ketchikan Better for Music?

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

Music lovers will find a few good venues in Charleston. You can hear a number of local bands or enjoy a more widely known group at larger venues in the area.

Ketchikan is not a live music destination.

Is Charleston or Ketchikan Better for Resorts?

Charleston is very good for its resorts. However, Ketchikan is not a resort destination.

Charleston has a handful of resorts to choose from. The town has mostly hotels and bed and breakfasts in the downtown area, but nearby Kiawah Island has a number of nice resorts to choose from. Kiawah Island is particularly kid-friendly if you're looking for a family beach vacation. If you have a bit more money to spend and want something more residential, check out nearby Seabrook Island.

Ketchikan is not a resort destination.

Is Charleston or Ketchikan Better for Beaches?

Charleston is notable for its beaches. However, Ketchikan is not a beach destination.

Charleston is a very popular place to visit for its beaches. The area has a number of beautiful and fun nearby beaches including Folly Beach, Kiawah Island, and Seabrook Island. Folly Beach is an active and quirky beach area, while Kiawah is more family-friendly. Seabrook is more residential and more expensive.

Ketchikan is not a beach destination.

Is Charleston or Ketchikan Better for its Old Town?

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

The old town of Charleston is one of the most recognized in the world. Charleston's downtown is one of the most charming and well preserved Old Town's in the United States. It's easy to see why it's become a world class destination.

Ketchikan does not have a historic old town.

Is Charleston or Ketchikan Better for Hiking?

Ketchikan is an amazing town to visit for the nearby hiking options. However, Charleston is not a hiking destination.

Known for its hiking, Ketchikan draws a crowd to experience the nature and the trails. 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.

Charleston is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Charleston or Ketchikan?

Charleston is renowned for shopping. Also, Ketchikan is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its shopping opportunities.

Charleston is a famous shopping destination with plenty of stores. The city is famous for its historic market in the center of town. Local goods, foods, and crafts are sold daily here. There are also many clothing and local shops throughout town, particularly along King Street, which has boutiques and high end outlets. Outside of town, stop by Tanger Outlet Mall if you want name brands at a discount price.

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 Charleston or Ketchikan Better for Christmas?

Charleston is notable for its Christmas activities. However, Ketchikan does not offer Christmas activities.

Charleston is an extremely popular place to visit during the Christmas season. During the Christmas season there are a number of festivals, light shows, and even a boat parade that everyone can enjoy.

Ketchikan does not offer Christmas activities.

Is Charleston or Ketchikan Better for Christmas Markets?

Charleston is very good for its Christmas markets. However, Ketchikan does not offer Christmas markets.

Charleston offers some nice Christmas markets. Marion Square hosts Christmas Markets on weekends throughout the holiday season.

Ketchikan does not offer Christmas markets.

Is Charleston or Ketchikan Better for Families?

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

Ketchikan is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. 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.

Charleston is a family-friendly coastal town. The city has a number of family-friendly activities like carriage rides and boat rides. There's also an aquarium, a waterfront park, and many kid-friendly museums. The nearby beaches also make it a wonderful place to visit with kids.

Is Charleston or Ketchikan Better for Couples?

Charleston is renowned for romance. Also, Ketchikan is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its romantic activities.

For those traveling as a couple, Charleston has plenty to offer. This beautiful city is one of the most popular wedding destinations in America. It's a very romantic setting with beautiful hotels and bed and breakfasts that are perfect for couples on their honeymoon or looking for a romantic setting.

Ketchikan makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. 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.

Is Charleston or Ketchikan Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Ketchikan is a nice place to visit for backpackers. However, Charleston is a mediocre coastal town for backpackers and budget travelers.

It's common for backpackers to visit Ketchikan. While most visitors arrive by cruise ship, for those travel independently will appreciate the hostel in town.

Charleston is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. Hotels in the old town tend to be pricey and there isn't the backpacker community that you find in many other destinations. Still, there are a couple of hostels.

Is Charleston or Ketchikan Better for Students?

Charleston is very good for students. However, Ketchikan is not popular with students.

Charleston is a good coastal town to visit for students. The city is a college town with a young vibe that is perfect for students. There's a nice university area where you'll find cheaper places to eat and a good nightlife scene.

Ketchikan is not popular with students.

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

Both Charleston and Ketchikan offer respectable public transit options.

Public transit is generally limited in Charleston. While there are some buses, you really must have a car to fully experience the entire area.

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

Is Charleston or Ketchikan a more walkable city?

Charleston and Ketchikan both are excellent when exploring on foot.

Charleston is a very walkable destination. The downtown area is very walkable, but once you leave the historic heart, it's best to have a car.

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

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

Should I spend more time in Ketchikan or Charleston?

How long in Charleston or Ketchikan?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Charleston and Ketchikan. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Charleston than in Ketchikan. Usually, 2-7 days is a good amount of time for Charleston, and 1-3 days is enough time in Ketchikan.

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

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

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

One day in Charleston or Ketchikan?

You'll find nightlife and live music around the quaint coastal town of Charleston. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. 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.

With museums and food around the local town of Ketchikan, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Ketchikan, one day is sufficent for most.

A weekend in Charleston or Ketchikan?

You'll find live music and food around the picturesque destination of Charleston. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this coastal town has to offer. This coastal town offers a variety of activities to choose from.

With food and shopping around the destination of Ketchikan, there's plenty to do. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. It offers something for everyone. Many people spend a weekend here. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this town.

Five days in Charleston or Ketchikan?

You'll find food and shopping around the charming coastal town of Charleston. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this coastal town makes for a great vacation. It's also a great beach destination, too. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this coastal town has to offer.

Ketchikan, a popular town, is full of activities for travelers. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

A week in Charleston or Ketchikan?

Charleston is a popular choice for travelers. One week here is typical. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Charleston, one week is sufficent for most. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Ketchikan is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 2-Week Tours from San Francisco, The Best 2-Week Tours from Los Angeles, The Best Family-Friendly Tours to United States of America, and The Best Wildlife Tours to United States of America.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Charleston or Ketchikan?

Charleston has a larger population, and is about 10 times larger than the population of Ketchikan. When comparing the sizes of Charleston 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 Charleston 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 Charleston or Ketchikan in the Summer?

Both Ketchikan and Charleston are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Charleston for the beaches, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Ketchikan because of the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Charleston is much warmer than Ketchikan. Typically, the summer temperatures in Charleston in July average around 82°F (28°C), and Ketchikan averages at about 58°F (15°C).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Ketchikan. It's quite rainy in Charleston. In July, Charleston usually receives less rain than Ketchikan. Charleston gets 6.9 inches (176 mm) of rain, while Ketchikan receives 7.6 inches (193 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Charleston or Ketchikan in the Autumn?

Both Ketchikan and Charleston during the autumn are popular places to visit. The autumn months attract visitors to Charleston because of the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Ketchikan this time of year.

In October, Charleston is generally much warmer than Ketchikan. Daily temperatures in Charleston average around 67°F (19°C), and Ketchikan fluctuates around 46°F (8°C).

Ketchikan gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Charleston usually gets less rain in October than Ketchikan. Charleston gets 2.9 inches (74 mm) of rain, while Ketchikan receives 22.9 inches (581 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Charleston or Ketchikan in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Charleston and Ketchikan. The museums, the Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Charleston this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Ketchikan for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Ketchikan. Charleston is much warmer than Ketchikan in the winter. The daily temperature in Charleston averages around 47°F (9°C) in January, and Ketchikan fluctuates around 34°F (1°C).

Ketchikan receives a lot of rain in the winter. In January, Charleston usually receives less rain than Ketchikan. Charleston gets 3.3 inches (85 mm) of rain, while Ketchikan receives 14.9 inches (379 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Charleston or Ketchikan in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Charleston as well as Ketchikan. Many travelers come to Charleston for the beaches and the natural beauty. Also, many visitors come to Ketchikan in the spring for the small town charm and the natural beauty.

In the spring, Charleston is much warmer than Ketchikan. Typically, the spring temperatures in Charleston in April average around 64°F (18°C), and Ketchikan averages at about 44°F (6°C).

It's quite rainy in Ketchikan. Charleston usually gets less rain in April than Ketchikan. Charleston gets 2.7 inches (69 mm) of rain, while Ketchikan receives 11.3 inches (286 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Ketchikan and Charleston