A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Gainesville vs. Grand Teton National Park for Couples, Backpackers, Attractions, and Nightlife

Should you visit Gainesville or Grand Teton National Park?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Gainesville or Grand Teton National Park, 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.

Gainesville

Gainesville is a active, vibrant, and high energy city. Other reasons to visit include museums, nightlife, and food.

Grand Teton National Park

Grand Teton National Park is a impressive, vast, and spectacular park. You'll find world class beauty here as well. It's also known for hiking.

Gainesville and Grand Teton National Park: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for students
  • Good public transit
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with couples
  • Less popular with backpackers
Pros
  • Nice resorts
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Public transit not as usable


Is there more to do in Gainesville or Grand Teton National Park?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Grand Teton National Park. Although Gainesville and Grand Teton National Park are both popular with visitors, Grand Teton National Park has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Grand Teton National Park is more popular for its resorts, hiking, and impressive beauty, while Gainesville is known for its museums, food, nightlife, and shopping. Grand Teton National Park is more touristy than Gainesville and is popular for its grand peaks and diverse wildlife. It is also home to Jenny Lake. Gainesville is popular for being the home of the University of Florida

How is Gainesville different from Grand Teton National Park?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Gainesville or Grand Teton National Park?

Gainesville
Grand Teton National Park

Gainesville is a great city for its historical sights. However, Grand Teton National Park is not known for its sights and museums.

Gainesville offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. There's a surprising number of museums around town such as the Florida Museum of Natural History, the Samuel P. Harn Museum of Art, and the Cade Museum for Creativity and Invention. Also fascinating is the Historic Haile Homestead, the Butterfly Rainforest, and the city's planetarium.

Grand Teton National Park offers a handful of options for museums and historical sights. The Visitor Centers have exhibits and other informational sessions.


Is the Food Better in Gainesville or Grand Teton National Park? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Gainesville
Grand Teton National Park

Gainesville is a popular place for its local flavors and cuisine. However, Grand Teton National Park is not known for its local cuisine and restaurants.

There are plenty of up and coming restaurants around Gainesville. Casual eateries are popular around town, particularly with the student population. There are grills, diners, and bistros that serve local dishes at affordable prices.

You'll find the standard options when it comes to food in Grand Teton National Park. There are a number of restaurants and cafes around the park where you can enjoy a meal, often with a view.

Is Gainesville or Grand Teton National Park Better for Nightlife?

Gainesville
Grand Teton National Park

Gainesville is a great city for nightlife. However, Grand Teton National Park is not known for nightlife and partying.

The nightlife in Gainesville has something for everybody. The nightlife centers around the student population. The two main party areas are Midtown and Downtown. Midtown is between Northwest 17th Street and Northwest 18th Street and it's convenient for students who live on campus. The area has a great stretch of bars and clubs. The Downtown area has many of the city's top clubs, and it's popular with upperclassmen and students who live off campus.

Most people don't head to Grand Teton National Park specifically for the nightlife scene, but you can find a few options. There's a lounge at Jackson Lake Lodge, but most visitors enjoy a relaxing night in.

Is Gainesville or Grand Teton National Park Better for Resorts?

Gainesville
Grand Teton National Park

Grand Teton National Park is notable for its resorts. However, Gainesville is not a resort destination.

Grand Teton National Park is a popular resort destination that attracts visitors from everywhere. There are several impressive lodges within the park, as well as cabins and more rustic hotels.

Gainesville is not a resort destination.


Is Gainesville or Grand Teton National Park Better for Hiking?

Gainesville
Grand Teton National Park

Grand Teton National Park is very popular for the nearby hiking options. However, Gainesville is not a hiking destination.

Known for its hiking, Grand Teton National Park draws a crowd to experience the nature and the trails. Grand Teton National Park has more than 250 miles of trails that make their way through the mountains and around the rugged landscapes. There are hikes that range from short strolls to backcountry, mult-day trails and it's not uncommon to see wildlife.

Gainesville is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Gainesville or Grand Teton National Park?

Gainesville
Grand Teton National Park

Gainesville is a popular place for shopping. However, Grand Teton National Park is not known for its shopping opportunities.

Plenty of visitors enjoy shopping while in Gainesville. You'll find all of the standard shopping options around town such as malls, shopping centers, and retail outlets. Two popular areas are the Neighborhoods at Butler and Celebration Pointe.

If you're looking to go shopping, Grand Teton National Park has some nice offerings. There are park stores where you can pick up souvenirs or gifts.

Is Gainesville or Grand Teton National Park Better for Families?

Gainesville
Grand Teton National Park

Grand Teton National Park is notable for its family-friendly activities. Also, Gainesville is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

Grand Teton National Park is a very family-friendly place to visit. Kids will enjoy the hiking and wildlife spotting. There's also horseback riding and Ranger Programs that are designed for all ages.

Gainesville is a family-friendly city. You'll find outdoor activities, nature parks, and a couple of museums that will appeal to all ages. Highlights for families include A. Quinn Jones Museum and Cultural Center, the Adventure Outpost, and Alfred A. Ring Park.


Is Gainesville or Grand Teton National Park Better for Couples?

Gainesville
Grand Teton National Park

Grand Teton National Park is very popular for romance. Also, Gainesville is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its romantic activities.

Grand Teton National Park has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. With its stunning mountain views and scenic hikes, couples will be surrounded by romance. Many people visit the park for their honeymoon, or even for the wedding itself, and the setting couldn't be more spectacular.

Gainesville makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Couples can enjoy wine tasting and fine dining or enjoying the city's many outdoor activities. Go on a picnic or explore one of the museums in Downtown Gainesville.

Is Gainesville or Grand Teton National Park Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Gainesville
Grand Teton National Park

Grand Teton National Park is very popular for backpackers. However, Gainesville is a mediocre city for backpackers and budget travelers.

Grand Teton National Park is a mecca for backpackers and budget travelers. There are hostels, campgrounds, and backcountry hiking and camping that backpackers really enjoy.

Gainesville is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. It's not high on the list for many travelers, but there are some cheap motels where budget travelers can stay.

Is Gainesville or Grand Teton National Park Better for Students?

Gainesville
Grand Teton National Park

Gainesville is a great city for its student-friendly activities. However, Grand Teton National Park is not popular with students.

Gainesville is a very popular city for students and younger travelers. As the location of the University of Florida, you'll find many students around town. This keeps the energy high with plenty of evening activities and affordable entertainment options.

Grand Teton National Park is not popular with students.


Is Gainesville or Grand Teton National Park Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Gainesville
Grand Teton National Park

Gainesville is a popular place for times when you don't have a car. However, Grand Teton National Park is not known for its public transit.

While Gainesville offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There's a decent bus system that's free to students and employees of the university.

Public transit is limited or non-existant in Grand Teton National Park. There's no public transportation within the park.

Is Gainesville or Grand Teton National Park a more walkable city?

Gainesville
Grand Teton National Park

Gainesville is a popular place for its walkability. However, Grand Teton National Park is not known for its high level of walkability.

Gainesville is somewhat walkable. Biking is actually a popular way to get around town and some areas are pedestrian-friendly.

Grand Teton National Park is generally not very walkable. You'll need a car to reach most of the trail heads.

For even more information, also check out Is Gainesville Worth Visiting? and Is Grand Teton National Park Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Grand Teton National Park or Gainesville?

How long in Gainesville or Grand Teton National Park?

Both Gainesville and Grand Teton National Park have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Grand Teton National Park than in Gainesville. Usually, 1-2 days is a good amount of time for Gainesville, and 3-7 days is enough time in Grand Teton National Park.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Gainesville than Grand Teton 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 Gainesville.


  • How many days in Gainesville or Grand Teton National Park? Ideal Length of Stay
    Gainesville 1-2 
    Grand Teton National Park 3-7

One day in Gainesville or Grand Teton National Park?

Visitors enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the active city of Gainesville. So, one day is just the right amount of time to spend here. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

Visitors enjoy the when visiting the spectacular park of Grand Teton National Park. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Most people visit for the hiking. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.


A weekend in Gainesville or Grand Teton National Park?

Visitors enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the destination of Gainesville. Anyone can find something fun to do here. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend. Because of this, a weekend is usually enough time for a trip here.

Visitors enjoy the when visiting the impressive destination of Grand Teton National Park. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. This park offers something for everyone. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

Five days in Gainesville or Grand Teton National Park?

Gainesville is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything. It offers something for everyone.

Visitors enjoy the when visiting the impressive park of Grand Teton National Park. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. Many people spend five days here.If you enjoy all that's offered here, then five days is just the right amount of time to spend here. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

A week in Gainesville or Grand Teton National Park?

Gainesville is a popular choice for travelers. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Visitors enjoy the when visiting the destination of Grand Teton National Park. Anyone can find something fun to do here. This is a popular place to visit for one week. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. Most people visit for the hiking. In one week, you should have a good grasp of this park.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 2-Week Tours in United States of America, The Best 3-Week Tours in United States of America, The Best Bicycle Tours in United States of America, and Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Grand Teton National Park or Gainesville?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Gainesville is $221, while the average daily cost in Grand Teton National Park is $162. 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 Gainesville and Grand Teton National Park in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Gainesville $119
    Grand Teton National Park $79
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Gainesville $238
    Grand Teton National Park $158
Compare Hotels in Gainesville and Grand Teton National Park

Looking for a hotel in Gainesville or Grand Teton 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 Gainesville


Hotels in Grand Teton 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: Gainesville Hotel Prices and Grand Teton National Park Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Gainesville $40
    Grand Teton National Park $52

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Grand Teton National Park

Also for Grand Teton National Park, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Private SUV Transfers to/ from Jackson Hole Airport JAC: $105
  • Private Luxury 4wd SUV To/From Transfer Jackson Hole Airport: $140

Is it cheaper to fly into Gainesville or Grand Teton National Park?

Prices for flights to both Grand Teton National Park and Gainesville 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
    Gainesville $70
    Grand Teton National Park $46
Typical Food Prices in Gainesville

Some typical examples of dining costs in Gainesville are as follows:


  • Diner Breakfast for Two
    $17
  • Lunch at Chop Stix (for 2)
    $24

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Grand Teton National Park

For Grand Teton National Park, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Jackson Hole Chuckwagon Dinner: $75
  • Dinner Cookout Ride at Heart Six Ranch: $145

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Gainesville $44
    Grand Teton National Park $43
Typical Entertainment Prices in Gainesville

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


  • Manatee Tour for Two
    $98
  • Tour Guide Tip
    $5.00

Tours and Activities in Gainesville

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

  • Butterfly Rainforest at Florida Museum of Natural History Ticket: $15
  • Private Snorkeling Tour in Florida Springs: $250
  • Unique Scavenger Hunt Experience in Gainesville by Operation City Quest: $10

Tours and Activities in Grand Teton National Park

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Grand Teton National Park.

  • Snake River Scenic Float Private Guided Tour: $225

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Gainesville $49
    Grand Teton National Park $19


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

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Gainesville Expensive? and Is Grand Teton National Park Expensive?.