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

Should you visit Destin or Ketchikan?

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

Which city is more affordable and which is best for your travel style? If you're trying to figure out where to go next, comparing the travel costs between Destin and Ketchikan can help you decide which place is right for you.

Destin

Destin is a peaceful, family-friendly, and beautiful beach town. It's a gorgeous place to visit. It's also known for food, beaches, and shopping.

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.

Destin and Ketchikan: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Destin or Ketchikan?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Ketchikan. Although Destin and Ketchikan are both popular with visitors, Ketchikan has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Ketchikan is more popular for its museums, food, nightlife, hiking, small town charm, and impressive beauty, while Destin is known for its resorts and beaches. Destin is popular for its powdery sand and turquoise water, its kid-friendly environment, and its local waterfront seafood restaurants. Ketchikan is popular for its salmon fishing, beautiful natural environment, and strong sense of local culture. It is also home to the Southeast Alaska Discovery Center.

How is Destin different from Ketchikan?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Ketchikan is very good for its sights and museums. However, Destin does not have museums and landmarks.

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.

Destin does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Ketchikan is terrific for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Destin is not as famous, but is still a good beach town to visit for its restaurants.

Ketchikan has long been recognized as a culinary destination with great restaurants. 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.

Destin has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. The area has great seafood including crab chowder, seafood gumbo, and fried fish. You can find wonderful local restaurants that have waterfront views and menus that feature freshly caught seafood. Many restaurants also have kid-friendly menus. During peak season, reservations are recommended.

Is Destin or Ketchikan Better for Nightlife?

Ketchikan is a moderate town for nightlife. However, Destin is a mediocre beach town for nightlife and partying.

Most people don't head to Ketchikan specifically for the nightlife scene, but you can find a few options. 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.

Destin doesn't offer many options. The region is more popular as a family-friendly beach destination than it is for it's nightlife. Head to the Harbor area for the most lively nightlife.

Is Destin or Ketchikan Better for Resorts?

Destin is notable for its resorts. However, Ketchikan is not a resort destination.

Vacationers can choose from a number of terrific resorts in Destin. Popular options include the Sandestin Golf & Beach Resort, as well as Hilton Sandestin Beach, Golf Resort & Spa. Most of the accommodation in the area is in the form of condos that include a kitchen and separate bedrooms. Most of these complexes also have pools, hot tubs, and even kids clubs.

Ketchikan is not a resort destination.

Is Destin or Ketchikan Better for Beaches?

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

Destin is a very popular place to visit for its beaches. This area is famous for its powdery white sand, beautiful blue waters, and calm waves. The beaches are large enough that they never get incredibly crowded, but you will find the largest crowds during the summer months. These beaches are particularly popular with families and seniors.

Ketchikan is not a beach destination.

Is Destin or Ketchikan Better for Hiking?

Ketchikan is terrific for the nearby hiking options. However, Destin is not a hiking destination.

Many people visit Ketchikan specifically for its hiking. 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.

Destin is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Destin or Ketchikan?

Both Destin and Ketchikan are good shopping destinations.

Destin is a great destination for shopping. In the shopping centers around town you'll find a number of unique boutique shops that are fun to explore. They have boutique-style beach clothes, local art, and any beach supplies that you may have forgotten.

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 Destin or Ketchikan Better for Families?

You'll find very good kid-friendly activities in either Destin or Ketchikan.

Destin is a very family-friendly place to visit. The area has beautiful sandy beaches, calm waters, and plenty of activities for kids like Big Kahuna's Water Park. This is one of the more kid-friendly areas in Florida and many families return year after year with their kids. There are also many condos available for rent and kids can have their own room, kitchens are available for meal preparation, and there are washers and dryers to clean clothes. Many of these condo complexes also have kid-friendly pools

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 Destin or Ketchikan Better for Couples?

Ketchikan is notable for romance. Also, Destin is not as famous, but is still a good beach town 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.

Destin makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. For a relaxing beach vacation, this is a nice option for couples. A lot of the accommodation is in the form of condos, so it may not have the romantic resort vibe you're going for though. There are many great seafood restaurants and quiet beaches that have beautiful sunsets.

Is Destin or Ketchikan Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Ketchikan is very good for backpackers. However, Destin is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

Ketchikan is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. While most visitors arrive by cruise ship, for those travel independently will appreciate the hostel in town.

Destin is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

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

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

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

Public transit is quite limited in Destin. There is almost no public transit so a car is essential. Some condo complexes do over golf carts to get around the grounds.

Is Destin or Ketchikan a more walkable city?

Ketchikan is notable for its walkability. However, Destin is a mediocre beach town for its high level of walkability.

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

Destin is not a very walkable beach town. The area is very spread out and not walkable so you'll need a car to access restaurants and most forms of entertainment.

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

Should I spend more time in Ketchikan or Destin?

How long in Destin or Ketchikan?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Destin and Ketchikan. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Destin than in Ketchikan. Usually, 5-7 days is a good amount of time for Destin, and 1-3 days is enough time in Ketchikan.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Ketchikan than Destin 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 Ketchikan.

One day in Destin or Ketchikan?

You'll find food and shopping around the beach town of Destin. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. 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 Destin or Ketchikan?

You'll find shopping and food around the family-friendly destination of Destin. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. This beach town 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 Destin or Ketchikan?

You'll find food and shopping around the beautiful beach town of Destin. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this beach town makes for a great vacation. It's also a relaxing resort destination. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this beach town 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 Destin or Ketchikan?

Destin is a popular choice for travelers. One week here is typical. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Destin, one week is sufficent for most. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the quaint 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 Walking Tours in United States of America, The Best Tours Under $1000 in United States of America, The Best Luxury Tours to United States of America, and The Best Tours for Seniors to United States of America.

When comparing the travel costs between Destin and Ketchikan, we can see that Ketchikan 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 Destin Expensive? and Is Ketchikan Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Destin or Ketchikan?

Destin has a larger population, and is about 69% larger than the population of Ketchikan. When comparing the sizes of Destin 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 Destin 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 Destin or Ketchikan in the Summer?

Both Ketchikan and Destin are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The summer months attract visitors to Destin because of the beaches and the family-friendly experiences. Also, the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Ketchikan this time of year.

Destin is much warmer than Ketchikan in the summer. The daily temperature in Destin averages around 82°F (28°C) in July, and Ketchikan fluctuates around 58°F (15°C).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Ketchikan. It's quite rainy in Destin. In July, Destin usually receives around the same amount of rain as Ketchikan. Destin gets 7.4 inches (189 mm) of rain, while Ketchikan receives 7.6 inches (193 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Destin or Ketchikan in the Autumn?

Both Ketchikan and Destin during the autumn are popular places to visit. The shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Destin this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Ketchikan for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Destin is much warmer than Ketchikan. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Destin in October average around 69°F (21°C), and Ketchikan averages at about 46°F (8°C).

Ketchikan gets a good bit of rain this time of year. It rains a lot this time of the year in Destin. Destin usually gets less rain in October than Ketchikan. Destin gets 4.2 inches (107 mm) of rain, while Ketchikan receives 22.9 inches (581 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Destin or Ketchikan in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Destin and Ketchikan. Many travelers come to Destin for the shopping scene and the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Ketchikan in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Ketchikan can get quite cold in the winter. In January, Destin is generally much warmer than Ketchikan. Daily temperatures in Destin average around 50°F (10°C), and Ketchikan fluctuates around 34°F (1°C).

Ketchikan receives a lot of rain in the winter. Destin gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In January, Destin usually receives less rain than Ketchikan. Destin gets 4.6 inches (117 mm) of rain, while Ketchikan receives 14.9 inches (379 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Destin or Ketchikan in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Destin as well as Ketchikan. Many visitors come to Destin in the spring for the beaches and the natural beauty. Also, most visitors come to Ketchikan for the small town charm and the natural beauty during these months.

Destin is much warmer than Ketchikan in the spring. The daily temperature in Destin averages around 68°F (20°C) in April, and Ketchikan fluctuates around 44°F (6°C).

It's quite rainy in Ketchikan. Destin usually gets less rain in April than Ketchikan. Destin gets 3.4 inches (87 mm) of rain, while Ketchikan receives 11.3 inches (286 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Ketchikan and Destin