A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Glacier National Park vs. Grand Teton National Park for Hiking, Couples, Backpackers, and Resorts

Should you visit Glacier National Park or Grand Teton National Park?

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

Should I visit Glacier National Park or Grand Teton National Park? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

Glacier National Park

Glacier National Park is a stunning, breathtaking, and gorgeous park. Many visitors also come to Glacier National Park because of it's amazing beauty. Other reasons to visit include hiking. See Glacier National Park travel costs.

Grand Teton National Park

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

Glacier National Park and Grand Teton National Park: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to Going-to-the-Sun Road
Pros
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty


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

Tourists will generally find more to do in Glacier National Park. Although Glacier National Park and Grand Teton National Park are both popular with visitors, Glacier National Park has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Glacier National Park is more touristy than Grand Teton National Park and is popular for its miles of hiking trails, impressive glaciers, and pristine lakes. It is also home to Going-to-the-Sun Road. Grand Teton National Park is popular for its grand peaks and diverse wildlife.

How is Glacier National Park 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 Glacier National Park. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

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

Glacier National Park
Grand Teton National Park

Grand Teton National Park is a moderate park for its sights and museums. However, Glacier National Park is a mediocre park for its museums and history.

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

If you're looking to pass the time, head to a museum or historic sight in Glacier National Park. There are a couple of local museums in the area, but most people head straight for the park.


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

Glacier National Park
Grand Teton National Park

Both Glacier National Park and Grand Teton National Park offer decent local cuisine and restaurants.

Glacier National Park offers some easy restaurants to choose from. You'll find several restaurants and cafes both within and near the park, but this is an incredibly crowded park so you'll want to make reservations well in advance.

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 Glacier National Park or Grand Teton National Park Better for Nightlife?

Glacier National Park
Grand Teton National Park

Grand Teton National Park is a moderate park for nightlife. However, Glacier National Park is a mediocre park for nightlife and partying.

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.

Glacier National Park doesn't offer many options. People visit for the scenery, not the nightlife scene.

Is Glacier National Park or Grand Teton National Park Better for Resorts?

Glacier National Park
Grand Teton National Park

Grand Teton National Park is notable for its resorts. Also, Glacier National Park is not as famous, but is still a good park to visit for its luxury resorts.

Grand Teton National Park is known as a popular and fun resort destination. There are several impressive lodges within the park, as well as cabins and more rustic hotels.

With a selection of resorts, Glacier National Park makes a nice vacation spot. There are several lodges, cabins, and inns near or within the park, but reservations are recommended well in advance.


Is Glacier National Park or Grand Teton National Park Better for Hiking?

Glacier National Park
Grand Teton National Park

Grand Teton National Park is very popular for the nearby hiking options. Also, Glacier National Park is not as famous, but is still a good park to visit for its hiking trails.

People visit Grand Teton National Park specifically for its hiking, as the natural beauty is well-known. 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.

Many visitors explore the nearby hiking trails while visiting Glacier National Park. There are more than 700 miles of trails in the park. For the best experience, you should purchase a permit and explore the parks backcountry. Other popular trails include Highline Trail, Grinnell Glacier Trail, and Avalanche Lake Trail. It's best to start in the early morning as this is a popular park and the trails get busier as the day progresses.

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

Glacier National Park
Grand Teton National Park

Both Glacier National Park and Grand Teton National Park are decent shopping destinations.

Glacier National Park is a good destination for shopping. There are park stores where you can pick up books, souvenirs, and gifts.

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 Glacier National Park or Grand Teton National Park More Beautiful?

Glacier National Park
Grand Teton National Park

Glacier National Park and Grand Teton National Park both are comparable with their first-rate scenery and beauty.

You'll find world class beauty in Glacier National Park as well. This is one of the most stunning national parks in the United States with its many pristine lakes, striking mountain peaks, and breathtaking views.

Grand Teton National Park is considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. The park is filled with spectacular mountain peaks and dramatic landscapes that will take your breath away.


Is Glacier National Park or Grand Teton National Park Better for Families?

Glacier National Park
Grand Teton National Park

Grand Teton National Park is notable for its family-friendly activities. Also, Glacier National Park is not as famous, but is still a good park 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.

Glacier National Park is a family-friendly park. The landscapes are spectacular, but the crowds can be intense, which means it can be hard to find places to pull over and park during the peak seasons. Keep this in mind when you're traveling with kids because you may end up spending more time in the car than you'd expected.

Is Glacier National Park or Grand Teton National Park Better for Couples?

Glacier National Park
Grand Teton National Park

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

Grand Teton National Park makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. 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.

Glacier National Park makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Drive along the scenic Going-to-the-Sun-Road and take in the truly breathtaking scenery. Many people consider this to be a top destination for a honeymoon and couples will appreciate the impressive hikes, dramatic waterfalls, and adventure-filled activities.

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

Glacier National Park
Grand Teton National Park

Both Glacier National Park and Grand Teton National Park are first-rate destinations for backpackers.

Glacier National Park is a mecca for backpackers and budget travelers. The backcountry is truly pristine, and obtaining a Wilderness Permit and getting off-the-beaten-path will help you escape some of the crowds that the park is known for.

With so many budget-friendly offerings, Grand Teton National Park is extremely popular for backpackers. There are hostels, campgrounds, and backcountry hiking and camping that backpackers really enjoy.


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

Glacier National Park
Grand Teton National Park

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

Public transit is mostly limited in Glacier National Park. There's a free shuttle along Going-to-the-Sun Road that's available on a first-come, first-served basis, but expect crowds. The road can get quite congested during peak times. There are also tours that take you along the road so you can enjoy the scenery without having to focus on driving.

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

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

Glacier National Park
Grand Teton National Park

Grand Teton National Park is a moderate park for its walkability. However, Glacier National Park is a mediocre park for its high level of walkability.

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

Glacier National Park is not a very walkable park. You'll need a car to get almost anywhere in the park.

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

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

How long in Glacier National Park or Grand Teton National Park?

Both Glacier National Park 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 Glacier National Park. Usually, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Glacier National Park, and 3-7 days is enough time in Grand Teton National Park.

Families should spend more time in Grand Teton National Park than Glacier National Park. 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.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Grand Teton National Park than Glacier 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 Grand Teton National Park.


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

One day in Glacier National Park or Grand Teton National Park?

Visitors enjoy the when visiting the breathtaking park of Glacier National Park. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

In Grand Teton National Park, you'll find . You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. One reason most visitors come is for the hiking. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.


A weekend in Glacier National Park or Grand Teton National Park?

Visitors enjoy the when visiting the destination of Glacier National Park. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Grand Teton National Park. One reason most visitors come is for the hiking. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. It offers something for everyone.

Five days in Glacier National Park or Grand Teton National Park?

Glacier National Park is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. 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. It offers something for everyone.

Grand Teton National Park is a fun place to experience. One reason most visitors come is for the hiking. If you have five days, this is a great place to go. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. In five days, you should have a good grasp of this park. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

A week in Glacier National Park or Grand Teton National Park?

Glacier National Park 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.

In Grand Teton National Park, you'll find . It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. Plenty of people spend one week in the area when traveling. One week should give you a good understanding of everything this park has to offer.


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


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

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations. These travel costs come from the actual spending of real travelers.

  • Glacier National Park Prices
    USA Prices
    Grand Teton National Park Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Glacier National Park $148
    Grand Teton National Park $196

The average daily cost (per person) in Glacier National Park is $148, while the average daily cost in Grand Teton National Park is $196. 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 Glacier National Park and Grand Teton National Park in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Glacier National Park $56
    Grand Teton National Park $79
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Glacier National Park $112
    Grand Teton National Park $158
Compare Hotels in Glacier National Park and Grand Teton National Park

Looking for a hotel in Glacier National Park 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 Glacier National Park


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: Grand Teton National Park Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Glacier National Park $69
    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

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

Prices for flights to both Grand Teton National Park and Glacier National Park 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
    Glacier National Park $49
    Grand Teton National Park $80

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:

  • Dinner Cookout Ride at Heart Six Ranch: $165

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Glacier National Park $34
    Grand Teton National Park $43

Tours and Activities in Glacier National Park

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Glacier National Park are as follows:

  • Combo Tour: Driving and Snowshoe Trek of Glacier National Park: $220
  • Doris Lake Hike and Pack Raft Adventure: $219
  • Driving Tour West Glacier National Park (excludes Sun Road): $245
  • Driving Tour in Glacier National Park: $220
  • E Bike Tour in Glacier National Park Cammas Road: $229
  • Fun and Romantic Pottery Experience for Couples: $275
  • Glacier National Park Going-to-the-Sun Road Self-Guided Tour: $9.99
  • Glacier National Park North Fork Self-Guided Audio Tour: $9.99
  • Glacier National Park Self-Guided Audio Tour: $16
  • Glacier National Park Self-Guided Driving Audio Tour: $17
  • Illuminated Glass Kayak Sunset Tour//Whitefish, MT: $155
  • Many Glacier Self-Guided Audio Tour in Glacier National Park: $9.99

Tours and Activities in Grand Teton National Park

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

  • Self-Guided Audio Driving Tour in Grand Teton National Park: $17
  • Snake River Scenic Float Private Guided Tour: $130
  • Via Ferrata Adventure at Jackson Hole Mountain Resort: $273

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Glacier National Park $8.41
    Grand Teton National Park $19


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

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