A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Fort Lauderdale vs. Grand Canyon National Park for Resorts, Couples, Families, and Food

Should you visit Fort Lauderdale or Grand Canyon 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 Fort Lauderdale and Grand Canyon 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.

Fort Lauderdale

Fort Lauderdale is a high energy, scenic, and bustling coastal city. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Other reasons to visit include food, scuba diving and snorkeling, and beaches.

Grand Canyon National Park

Grand Canyon National Park is a stunning, world-renowned, and gorgeous national park. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. It's also known for hiking.

Fort Lauderdale and Grand Canyon National Park: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Active nightlife
  • Nice resorts
  • Good scuba and snorkeling destination
  • Popular beach
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to the Local Beaches
Pros
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to the sunset views
Things to Consider
  • Not as many resort options


Is there more to do in Fort Lauderdale or Grand Canyon National Park?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Fort Lauderdale. Although Fort Lauderdale and Grand Canyon National Park are both popular with visitors, Fort Lauderdale has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Fort Lauderdale is more popular for its food, nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and shopping, while Grand Canyon National Park is known for its hiking and impressive beauty. Fort Lauderdale is popular for its canals, beaches, walkable waterfront, and luxury resorts. It is also home to The Local Beaches. Grand Canyon National Park is popular for its iconic beauty, layers of color, breathtaking sunsets, and world-renowned geological history.

How is Fort Lauderdale different from Grand Canyon National Park?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Grand Canyon National Park and Fort Lauderdale. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Is the Food Better in Fort Lauderdale or Grand Canyon National Park? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Fort Lauderdale
Grand Canyon National Park

Fort Lauderdale is a good destination for its restaurants. However, Grand Canyon National Park is lacking in good options for its restaurant scene.

There are plenty of up and coming restaurants around Fort Lauderdale. Seafood is the obvious option with popular dishes being fish tacos, sea bass, and scallop risotto. There are many waterfront restaurants or you could head to Las Olas Boulevard, which has many bistros, cafes, and restaurants.

You'll find the standard options when it comes to food in Grand Canyon National Park. There are several markets, restaurants, and cafes in the park but, in general, the options are expensive and not the best. If possible, bring your own food and plan for a picnic with a view.


Is Fort Lauderdale or Grand Canyon National Park Better for Nightlife?

Fort Lauderdale
Grand Canyon National Park

Fort Lauderdale is a very popular place for nightlife. However, Grand Canyon National Park is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Fort Lauderdale has a large number of nightlife venues. Trendy and upscale partying is the name of the game in this Florida city. Most people head to the beach, Las Olas Blvd, River Front and The New Hard Rock Seminole Hotel Complex for the best bars and clubs. You'll find the most activity around the weekends, but there really is something going on any night of the week.

Grand Canyon National Park is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Is Fort Lauderdale or Grand Canyon National Park Better for Resorts?

Fort Lauderdale
Grand Canyon National Park

Fort Lauderdale is renowned for its luxury resorts. Also, Grand Canyon National Park is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its resorts.

Vacationers flock to Fort Lauderdale for its luxury resorts. Luxury beachfront resorts are plentiful in the area. Several of the most impressive include the Ritz-Carlton, W Fort Lauderdale, and the Dalmar. Most resorts have a beachfront pool, hot tubs, and depending on the resort, a kid's club.

With a selection of resorts, Grand Canyon National Park makes a nice vacation spot. There are several options within and near the park that range from luxury to affordable. Reservations should be made well in advance for most hotels within the park. Bright Angel Lodge, El Tovar Hotel, Grand Canyon Lodge (North Rim) and Phantom Ranch are all unique places to stay.

Is Fort Lauderdale or Grand Canyon National Park Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Fort Lauderdale
Grand Canyon National Park

Fort Lauderdale is a good destination for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Grand Canyon National Park is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Grab a mask and fins and explore the underwater scenery in Fort Lauderdale. Although the snorkeling doesn't compare to what you'll find further south around the Florida Keys, there are some great places to pull your mask and fins out in the area. Popular snorkeling spots nearby include the Vista Park Reef, Pompano Beach, and Hollywood North Beach Park.

Grand Canyon National Park is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.


Is Fort Lauderdale or Grand Canyon National Park Better for Beaches?

Fort Lauderdale
Grand Canyon National Park

Fort Lauderdale is renowned for its beaches. However, Grand Canyon National Park is not a beach destination.

Fort Lauderdale offers stunning beaches that attract visitors from around the world. With seven miles of beautiful sandy beaches, a fun boardwalk, and impressive views, the beaches here are among the best in the area. They are surprisingly walkable and, while there can be crowds, there's still a laid-back and relaxing atmosphere.

Grand Canyon National Park is not a beach destination.

Is Fort Lauderdale or Grand Canyon National Park Better for Hiking?

Fort Lauderdale
Grand Canyon National Park

Grand Canyon National Park is a great destination for its hiking experiences. However, Fort Lauderdale is not a hiking destination.

You'll find a nice variety of hiking trails around Grand Canyon National Park. Hiking options at the Grand Canyon include an easy walk along the rim or a hike into the canyon. If you're planning to enjoy a view from the rim and then stroll along the rim walk, a day or two is plenty. Hiking into the canyon is a thrilling experience, but it does require more preparation and planning. You should also check out the weather before you depart as temperatures within the canyon can become dangerously hot.

Fort Lauderdale is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Fort Lauderdale or Grand Canyon National Park?

Fort Lauderdale
Grand Canyon National Park

Fort Lauderdale is a good destination for shopping. However, Grand Canyon National Park is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Plenty of visitors enjoy shopping while in Fort Lauderdale. For interesting local boutiques head to Las Olas Boulevard and for name brand stores you'll want to visit Sawgrass Mills Mall.

Grand Canyon National Park is not a noteworthy shopping destination.


Is Fort Lauderdale or Grand Canyon National Park Better for Families?

Fort Lauderdale
Grand Canyon National Park

Fort Lauderdale is a very popular place for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Grand Canyon National Park is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

Fort Lauderdale is a very family-friendly destination. With seven miles of beautiful sandy beaches and a number of kid-oriented activities, the kids will love it here. Fun activities include Bluefoot Pirate Adventures, Butterfly World, and Funderdome. On sunny days there are many outdoor recreation areas and when the weather isn't cooperating, there are hands-on museums.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Grand Canyon National Park. This park is a spectacular landmark with a number of nature programs that kids can enjoy. There's also a simple rim walk along the edge of the canyon that is perfect for little legs.

Is Fort Lauderdale or Grand Canyon National Park Better for Couples?

Fort Lauderdale
Grand Canyon National Park

Fort Lauderdale and Grand Canyon National Park both terrific destinations for a couple.

Fort Lauderdale is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. Fine dining, beautiful beaches, and great shopping make for a great romantic getaway. Couples and honeymooners love relaxing at the beaches in Fort Lauderdale. A sunset walk on the beach and a stay at a romantic resort will make for an unforgettable trip.

Grand Canyon National Park makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. Couples who enjoy beauty, nature, and adventure will appreciate a visit to this park. There are amazing hikes and breathtaking views that make this a truly romantic destination. There are also several hotels and lodges that make for a truly romantic getaway (book well in advance!).

Is Fort Lauderdale or Grand Canyon National Park Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Fort Lauderdale
Grand Canyon National Park

Grand Canyon National Park is a must-visit destination for backpackers. However, Fort Lauderdale is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

Grand Canyon National Park is a mecca for backpackers and budget travelers. Backpackers and budget travelers can take in one of America's most notable landmarks while camping at the large and affordable national park campground.

Fort Lauderdale is not a backpacker-friendly destination.


Is Fort Lauderdale or Grand Canyon National Park Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Fort Lauderdale
Grand Canyon National Park

You'll find somewhat comparable public transit options in both Fort Lauderdale and Grand Canyon National Park.

Public transit is generally limited in Fort Lauderdale. Transportation options include a water taxi and the Sun Trolley Hop-on Bus.

Public transit is mostly limited in Grand Canyon National Park. There are free shuttle buses that run along the South Rim of the Grand Canyon.

Is Fort Lauderdale or Grand Canyon National Park a more walkable city?

Fort Lauderdale
Grand Canyon National Park

Fort Lauderdale is a very popular place for its walkability. Also, Grand Canyon National Park is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its high level of walkability.

Fort Lauderdale is very walkable. It is one of the most walkable Florida communities with a boardwalk and several pedestrian areas that are fun to wander around.

Grand Canyon National Park is a somewhat walkable place. There's a nice rim walk that is the perfect place for a leisurely stroll, but to reach many parts of the park you'll want to have a car or plan to take some form of transit.

For even more information, also check out Is Fort Lauderdale Worth Visiting? and Is Grand Canyon National Park Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Grand Canyon National Park or Fort Lauderdale?

How long in Fort Lauderdale or Grand Canyon National Park?

It's fun to spend time in either Fort Lauderdale or Grand Canyon National Park. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Fort Lauderdale due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Fort Lauderdale, and 1-4 days is enough time in Grand Canyon National Park.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Fort Lauderdale than Grand Canyon 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 Fort Lauderdale.


  • How many days in Fort Lauderdale or Grand Canyon National Park? Ideal Length of Stay
    Fort Lauderdale 3-7 
    Grand Canyon National Park 1-4

One day in Fort Lauderdale or Grand Canyon National Park?

In Fort Lauderdale, many people enjoy the shopping and nightlife that this spirited destination offers. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Lots of people come for the beaches. Most people come for the beaches. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

The gorgeous destination of Grand Canyon National Park offers . Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One day is usually enough time to experience most activities.


A weekend in Fort Lauderdale or Grand Canyon National Park?

In Fort Lauderdale, many people enjoy the nightlife and food that this beautiful destination offers. It's also a relaxing resort destination. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything.

The national park of Grand Canyon National Park offers . Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. A weekend here is typical. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything. A weekend is often enough time to do most activities.

Five days in Fort Lauderdale or Grand Canyon National Park?

In Fort Lauderdale, many people enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling that this spirited destination offers. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. This is a popular place to visit for five days.Five days is often enough time to do most activities. This coastal city offers something for everyone.

Grand Canyon National Park is a great place to explore. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. This national park offers something for everyone. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

A week in Fort Lauderdale or Grand Canyon National Park?

In Fort Lauderdale, many people enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping that this beautiful coastal city offers. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. If you have one week, this coastal city makes for a great vacation. It's also a great beach destination, too. Lots of people come for the beaches. Because of this, one week is usually enough time for a trip here.

Many people enjoy the when visiting Grand Canyon National Park. Hikers are also drawn to this area. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Coach Bus Tours in United States of America, The Best Adventure Tours to United States of America, The Best Train & Rail Tours in United States of America, and The Best Sightseeing Tours in United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Grand Canyon National Park or Fort Lauderdale?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Fort Lauderdale is $182, while the average daily cost in Grand Canyon National Park is $168. 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 Fort Lauderdale and Grand Canyon National Park in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Fort Lauderdale $96
    Grand Canyon National Park $89
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Fort Lauderdale $192
    Grand Canyon National Park $178
Compare Hotels in Fort Lauderdale and Grand Canyon National Park

Looking for a hotel in Fort Lauderdale or Grand Canyon 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 Fort Lauderdale


Hotels in Grand Canyon 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: Fort Lauderdale Hotel Prices and Grand Canyon National Park Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Fort Lauderdale $51
    Grand Canyon National Park $43

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Fort Lauderdale

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Fort Lauderdale:

  • Try find your better than us ! Airport transfer in Fort Lauderdale APT-HTL (FLL): $285
  • Transfer: FLL Airport to Fort Lauderdale Area Vice Versa: $120
  • Transfer Private Vehicle from Fort Lauderdale Airport (FLL) -City: $40
  • Transfer Private Vehicle from City -Fort Lauderdale Airport (FLL): $40
  • Private transfer from Port of Miami to Fort Lauderdale: $220
  • Private Transfer to Fort Lauderdale Airport FLL Departures: $95
  • Private Transfer from Fort Lauderdale Airport to Key Largo: $262
  • Private Transfer from Fort Lauderdale Airport to Coral Gables: $131
  • Private Transfer from Fort Lauderdale Airport (FLL) to Fort Lauderdale: $130
  • Private Transfer from Fort Lauderdale Airport (FLL) to Boca Raton: $140
  • Private Transfer from FLL to Port Everglades / Fort Lauderdale: $130
  • Private Transfer To or From Fort Lauderdale Airport & CruisePort : $94

Is it cheaper to fly into Fort Lauderdale or Grand Canyon National Park?

Prices for flights to both Grand Canyon National Park and Fort Lauderdale 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
    Fort Lauderdale $49
    Grand Canyon National Park $49
Typical Food Prices in Fort Lauderdale

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for food and meal costs in Fort Lauderdale:


  • Quick Lunch
    $12

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Fort Lauderdale

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

  • Food Tour in Lauderdale By The Sea: $60
  • Hollywood Florida Walking Food Tour : $99
  • Downtown Fort Lauderdale Dinner & Drinks Tour: $109
  • Downtown Fort Lauderdale Dinner and Drinks Tour: $114
  • Fort Lauderdale Beach Food Tour: $114

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Fort Lauderdale $15
    Grand Canyon National Park $35

Tours and Activities in Fort Lauderdale

Here are a few actual costs in Fort Lauderdale for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • 1-Hour Interactive Pirate Cruise in Ft. Lauderdale (arrive 30 minutes early): $25
  • 2 Hour Intimate Cruise for 2ppl w/ Catering - Pompano Beach: $270
  • 4 Hour Waterway and Sandbar Cruise: $803
  • 90-Minute Parasailing Adventure Above Fort Lauderdale, FL: $80
  • 90-Minute Snorkel & Seabob Underwater Guided Reef Tour in Fort Lauderdale: $161
  • Air Boat Tour of Palm Beach in The Swamp Monster: $150
  • Atlantic Ocean Snorkeling Experience: $79
  • Bahamas Day Cruise to Bimni: $299
  • Beach Snorkeling Adventure in Lauderdale by the Sea: $45
  • Carrie B Cruises! Beautiful and Fun THE VENICE OF AMERICA TOUR!!!: $32
  • Champagne Sunset Cruise in Ft. Lauderdale: $89
  • Chocolate and Dessert Tasting Tour in Fort Lauderdale Florida: $40

Tours and Activities in Grand Canyon National Park

For Grand Canyon National Park, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • Grand Canyon South & East Rim Self-Driving, Walking & Shuttling Tour: $17
  • Grand Canyon and Sedona Self-Guided Driving Tour Bundle: $25
  • Ultimate Arizona Self-Guided Driving and Walking Tour Bundle: $30
  • Take a Scottsdale/Valley Tour in a Retro Party Bus - Old Town/Scottsdale: $69
  • Ultimate American Southwest Self-Guided Driving Tours Bundle: $85
  • Grand Canyon Signature Hummer Tour with Optional Sunset Views: $121
  • Grand Entrance Grand Canyon Tour - Pink Jeep: $122
  • 3 Hour Off-Road Sunset Safari to Grand Canyon with Entrance Gate Detour : $123
  • Desert View Grand Canyon Tour - Pink Jeep: $143
  • 4 Hour Grand Canyon Biblical Creation Morning Rim Tour: $149
  • 4-Hour Biblical Creation + Sunset Tour • Grand Canyon National Park South Rim: $149
  • Hermits Rest Hiking Tour from Tusayan: $165

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Fort Lauderdale $33
    Grand Canyon National Park $11
Typical Alcohol Prices in Fort Lauderdale

Some typical examples of the costs for nightlife and alcohol in Fort Lauderdale are as follows:


  • Beer
    $7.30

Sample the Local Flavors in Fort Lauderdale

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Fort Lauderdale:

  • Guided Happy Hour Bar Crawl by Beer Bike: $64
  • Pedibus Pub Crawl in Fort Lauderdale: $74
  • Party Bike Bar Crawl: $74


When comparing the travel costs between Fort Lauderdale and Grand Canyon National Park, we can see that Fort Lauderdale 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 Fort Lauderdale Expensive? and Is Grand Canyon National Park Expensive?.