A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Grand Canyon National Park vs. Los Angeles for Food, Hiking, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Grand Canyon National Park or Los Angeles?

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 Grand Canyon National Park and Los Angeles. 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.

Grand Canyon National Park

Grand Canyon National Park is a stunning, world-renowned, and gorgeous national park. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. It's also popular because of the hiking.

Los Angeles

Los Angeles is a energetic, dynamic, and glamourous city. It's an amazing and huge city with tons of activities and things to do. Other reasons to visit include nightlife, live music, and food.

Grand Canyon National Park and Los Angeles: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Good for hiking
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to the sunset views
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for food
  • Less family-friendly
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Numerous theater shows
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Good scuba and snorkeling destination
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Big city activities
  • Home to Hollywood


Is there more to do in Grand Canyon National Park or Los Angeles?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Los Angeles than Grand Canyon National Park, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Los Angeles is better known for its museums, theatre productions, food, nightlife, music, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, shopping, and big city activities, while Grand Canyon National Park is more popular for its impressive beauty. Grand Canyon National Park is well known for its iconic beauty, layers of color, breathtaking sunsets, and world-renowned geological history. Los Angeles is well known for is many A-list celebrities, its world-famous clubs and venues, its glamourous beaches, and being the location of the iconic Hollywood. Also, Los Angeles is famous for Hollywood.

How is Grand Canyon National Park different from Los Angeles?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Grand Canyon National Park or Los Angeles?

Grand Canyon National Park
Los Angeles

Los Angeles is renowned for its museums and history. However, Grand Canyon National Park does not have museums and landmarks.

Travelers visit Los Angeles from around the world to see its many world-famous attractions. The city has an eclectic list of monuments and museums. Notable landmarks include the famous Hollywood sign, Griffith Observatory, the Getty Center, and the Petersen Automotive Museum.

Grand Canyon National Park does not have museums and landmarks.


Is Grand Canyon National Park or Los Angeles Better for Theater?

Grand Canyon National Park
Los Angeles

Los Angeles is a very popular place for theatre. However, Grand Canyon National Park is not a theatre destination.

Los Angeles offers many theater and performance venues for visitors. While most people think of Hollywood when they think of LA, the city also has a thriving stage presence. Musicals and plays are popular throughout the city.

Grand Canyon National Park is not a theatre destination.

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

Grand Canyon National Park
Los Angeles

Los Angeles is renowned for its restaurants. However, Grand Canyon National Park is lacking in good options for its restaurant scene.

Eat your way through Los Angeles, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. As a huge and diverse city, there is no shortage of amazing food options around town. There are a wide range of cuisines represented and many different neighborhoods that specialize in specific types of food. Popular dishes around town include Cobb Salads, Mexican Tacos, and the French Dip Sandwich.

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 Grand Canyon National Park or Los Angeles Better for Nightlife?

Grand Canyon National Park
Los Angeles

Los Angeles is renowned for nightlife. However, Grand Canyon National Park is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Los Angeles is a destination that you simply have to visit at least once for nightlife. The city's nightlife scene is as diverse as the city itself. There are glamorous clubs where you might spot a celebrity, as well as local dives with a more down-to-earth vibe. Some of the most famous clubs in the city include Academy, Avalon, and Boardner's.

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


Is Grand Canyon National Park or Los Angeles Better for Music?

Grand Canyon National Park
Los Angeles

Los Angeles is renowned for live music. However, Grand Canyon National Park is not a live music destination.

Los Angeles is known as a music capital around the world. Music, movies, and show business - it's all part of what Los Angeles is known for. Several famous music venues include The Greek Theatre, Whiskey a Go Go, and The Roxy Theatre.

Grand Canyon National Park is not a live music destination.

Is Grand Canyon National Park or Los Angeles Better for Resorts?

Grand Canyon National Park
Los Angeles

Los Angeles is a very popular place for its luxury resorts. Also, Grand Canyon National Park is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its resorts.

There are plenty of resorts in Los Angeles to choose from. The city is home to a number of high end resorts including The Beverly Hill Hotel, The Langham Huntington Pasadena, and The Ritz-Carlton.

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 Grand Canyon National Park or Los Angeles Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Grand Canyon National Park
Los Angeles

Los Angeles 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 Los Angeles. The coastal setting means that there are a number of places where you can put on a mask and hop in the water. Popular snorkeling or diving spots near the city include Santa Catalina Island, Diver's Cove, and Crystal Cove State Park. Many visitors find the water to be a bit chili, but the wildlife is unique and beautiful.

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


Is Grand Canyon National Park or Los Angeles Better for Beaches?

Grand Canyon National Park
Los Angeles

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

Los Angeles offers stunning beaches that attract visitors from around the world. Ranging from beaches with stunning natural beauty to those with glamourous and fun atmospheres, this city has a number of beaches to choose from. There are many fun and high-energy urban beach settings, and there are also beaches that are lined with parks and offer a more natural environment. Some of the most popular are Santa Monica, Malibu, Huntington Beach, and Redondo Beach.

Grand Canyon National Park is not a beach destination.

Is Grand Canyon National Park or Los Angeles Better for Hiking?

Grand Canyon National Park
Los Angeles

Los Angeles is renowned for its hiking trails. Also, Grand Canyon National Park is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its hiking experiences.

Los Angeles is well-known for its hiking and trekking. In and around the city you'll find world class urban hiking with views of the mountains and the ocean. Some of the most well-known hikes include the Charlie Turner Trail to Mount Hollywood, Runyon Canyon, and the Sara Wan Trailhead at Corral Canyon.

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.

Is the Shopping Better in Grand Canyon National Park or Los Angeles?

Grand Canyon National Park
Los Angeles

Los Angeles is renowned for shopping. However, Grand Canyon National Park is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

People travel from around the world to go shopping in Los Angeles. Although it's most famous for the high end shopping at Rodeo Drive, there are actually many different shopping venues throughout the city. Other famous shopping areas include Robertson Blvd and the Grove.

Grand Canyon National Park is not a noteworthy shopping destination.


Is Grand Canyon National Park or Los Angeles Better for Families?

Grand Canyon National Park
Los Angeles

Los Angeles is renowned for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Grand Canyon National Park is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

With a huge array of activities for kids, Los Angeles is very family-friendly. With its many amusement parks, including nearby Disneyland, and its countless family-friendly parks and playgrounds, there is no shortage of things to do with kids around the city. Favorite activities include the amusement parks, exploring Venice Beach, a trip to the California Science Center, and taking a Warner Brothers Studio Tour.

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 Grand Canyon National Park or Los Angeles Better for Couples?

Grand Canyon National Park
Los Angeles

Grand Canyon National Park and Los Angeles both terrific destinations for a couple.

Grand Canyon National Park is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. 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!).

Los Angeles makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. It is a large, sprawling city with tucked away romantic scenes that are perfect for a couple's getaway or a dream honeymoon. There are also trendy nightclubs, world-class restaurants, and high-energy beaches that make for iconic date activities.

Is Grand Canyon National Park or Los Angeles Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Grand Canyon National Park
Los Angeles

Grand Canyon National Park is renowned for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Los Angeles is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for backpackers.

A large number of backpackers visit Grand Canyon National Park, as it is a very popular national park for 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.

Backpackers come from all over to visit Los Angeles. The city is a major travel destination for all types, and backpackers will find no shortage of hostels or budget friendly accommodation around town.


Is Grand Canyon National Park or Los Angeles Better for Students?

Grand Canyon National Park
Los Angeles

Los Angeles is renowned for its student-friendly activities. However, Grand Canyon National Park is not popular with students.

Los Angeles is a very popular place to visit for students. International students have long flocked to this for its major universities and diverse setting. Major universities in the area include UCLA, the University of Southern California, and the California Institute of Technology.

Grand Canyon National Park is not popular with students.

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

Grand Canyon National Park
Los Angeles

Los Angeles is a good destination for times when you don't have a car. However, Grand Canyon National Park is lacking in good options for its public transit.

Los Angeles has some public transit options. Many of the public transit options are overlooked by visitors for a number of reasons, but options include the subway, light rail, and buses.

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

Is Grand Canyon National Park or Los Angeles a more walkable city?

Grand Canyon National Park
Los Angeles

Grand Canyon National Park and Los Angeles are notable when it comes to walkability.

Grand Canyon National Park is somewhat walkable. 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.

Los Angeles is a somewhat walkable place. The city is sprawling, but some of the neighborhoods are more walkable than others. Some of the more walkable neighborhoods include Hollywood, Koreatown, Downtown, and MacArthur Park.


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

Should I spend more time in Los Angeles or Grand Canyon National Park?

How long in Grand Canyon National Park or Los Angeles?

Both Grand Canyon National Park and Los Angeles have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Los Angeles than in Grand Canyon National Park. Usually, 1-4 days is a good amount of time for Grand Canyon National Park, and 5-7 days is enough time in Los Angeles.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Los Angeles 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 Los Angeles.


  • How many days in Grand Canyon National Park or Los Angeles? Ideal Length of Stay
    Grand Canyon National Park 1-4 
    Los Angeles 5-7

One day in Grand Canyon National Park or Los Angeles?

Visitors enjoy the when visiting the striking national park of Grand Canyon National Park. Hikers are also drawn to this area. One day should give you a good understanding of everything this national park has to offer. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Each neighborhood in Los Angeles has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Hikers are also drawn to this area. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Grand Canyon National Park or Los Angeles?

Visitors enjoy the when visiting the breathtaking destination of Grand Canyon National Park. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. This national park offers something for everyone. Plenty of people spend a weekend in the area when traveling. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

Each neighborhood in Los Angeles has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. 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.

Five days in Grand Canyon National Park or Los Angeles?

The striking national park of Grand Canyon National Park offers . 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. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

Each neighborhood in Los Angeles has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. This is a popular place to visit for five days.Five days is often enough time to do most activities. This city offers something for everyone.


A week in Grand Canyon National Park or Los Angeles?

Many people enjoy the when visiting Grand Canyon National Park. Anyone can find something fun to do here. 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.

Each neighborhood in Los Angeles has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. If you have one week, this city makes for a great vacation. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. Because of this, one week is usually enough time for a trip here.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Camping Tours in United States of America, The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in United States of America, The Best Polar Tours & Cruises in United States of America, and The Best Walking Tours in United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Los Angeles or Grand Canyon National Park?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Grand Canyon National Park is $168, while the average daily cost in Los Angeles is $258. 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 Grand Canyon National Park and Los Angeles in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Grand Canyon National Park $89
    Los Angeles $140
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Grand Canyon National Park $178
    Los Angeles $280
Compare Hotels in Grand Canyon National Park and Los Angeles

Looking for a hotel in Grand Canyon National Park or Los Angeles? 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 Grand Canyon National Park


Hotels in Los Angeles


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 Canyon National Park Hotel Prices and Los Angeles Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Grand Canyon National Park $43
    Los Angeles $42

Typical Local Transportation Prices in Los Angeles

Here are some examples of typical transportation prices from actual travelers in Los Angeles:


  • Hotel Parking for a Day
    $22
  • Taxi to Airport
    $55

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Los Angeles

Also for Los Angeles, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • World Cruise Center to Long Beach - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $120
  • Universal Studios to Long Beach Airport (LGB) - Departure Private Transfer: $80
  • Try find your better than us ! Airport transfer in Los Angeles HTL-APT (LAX): $141
  • Try find your better than us ! Airport transfer in Los Angeles APT-HTL (LAX): $141
  • San Pedro Cruise Center Private Transfer from or to Los Angeles: $89
  • San Diego Private Transfer To or From Universal Studios/Burbank.: $248
  • Roundtrip transfer in private car Los Angeles Airport (LAX)-Los Angeles Downtown: $100
  • RoundTrip private transfer from Los Angeles airportLAX to Anaheim: $133
  • Private transfer from Los Angeles airport LAX to Anheim: $67
  • Private Transfers between LAX Airport and Los Angeles: $514
  • Private Transfers between LAX Airport and LA City Center: $96
  • Private Transfer: Los Angeles to Ontario Airport ONT in Business Car: $239

Is it cheaper to fly into Grand Canyon National Park or Los Angeles?

Prices for flights to both Los Angeles and Grand Canyon 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
    Grand Canyon National Park $49
    Los Angeles $60

Typical Food Prices in Los Angeles

For Los Angeles, here are some examples of average food and meal prices for travelers:


  • Mexican Dinner (family of 4)
    $32
  • Burritos for Two
    $15
  • Coffee and Danish
    $7.70

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Los Angeles

For Los Angeles, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Venice Beach Food Tour with Tastings: $75
  • 3-Hour Secret Food Tour: $88
  • Downtown Los Angeles Food Tour: $89
  • West Hollywood Food Tour: $89
  • Downtown Food Tour: $89
  • Venice Beach Food Tour: $89
  • LA Venice Beach Walking Food Tour With Secret Food Tours: $99
  • Night Cruise in Marina del Rey with Dinner: $124
  • Vegan African Dinner Party in Playa Del Ray: $132
  • Marina Del Rey: Thanksgiving Buffet Brunch or Dinner Cruise: $136
  • Marina Del Rey: Christmas Eve Buffet Brunch or Dinner Cruise: $136
  • Marina Del Rey: Christmas Day Buffet Brunch or Dinner Cruise: $136

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Grand Canyon National Park $35
    Los Angeles $82

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:

  • 3 Hour Off-Road Sunset Safari to Grand Canyon with Entrance Gate Detour : $123
  • 3-Day Adventure in Mulu National Park: $298
  • 4 Hour Grand Canyon Biblical Creation Morning Rim Tour: $149
  • 4-Hour Biblical Creation + Sunset Tour • Grand Canyon National Park South Rim: $149
  • Antelope Canyon Day Tour from Grand Canyon South: $279
  • Desert View Grand Canyon Tour - Pink Jeep: $143
  • Full Day Chauffeur for Grand Canyon Tour from inside Grand Canyon: $249
  • Full Day Chauffeur for South Rim Grand Canyon Tour from Tusayan: $249
  • Full-Day Tour to Grand Canyon Coach and River Float: $245
  • Grand Canyon Full Day Small Group Tour: $299
  • Grand Canyon Landmarks Tour by Airplane with Optional Hummer Tour: $179
  • Grand Canyon Signature Hummer Tour with Optional Sunset Views: $121

Typical Entertainment Prices in Los Angeles

Below are a few sample prices from actual travelers for Los Angeles's activities, tours, and tickets:


  • Santa Monica Pier Rides (family of 4)
    $37
  • Bowling
    $13
  • Hollywood Tour for Two
    $30
  • Six Flags for 2
    $96

Tours and Activities in Los Angeles

For Los Angeles, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • 1-Hour Private Ferrari Driving Tour: Hollywood to Beverly Hills: $289
  • 2 Hour Griffith Park Observatory Tour: $16
  • 2-Hour Hollywood Bus Tour: $45
  • 2-Hour Shared Celebrities Home Tours in Hollywood: $35
  • 2-Hour Venice Beach Art and History Walking Tour: $39
  • 2.5 Hour Private Tour of Hollywood and Beverly Hills: $219
  • 20 Min Ferrari driving tour in Hollywood: $99
  • 20 Min Lamborghini driving tour in Hollywood: $139
  • 3 Hours Private Photoshoot and Self-Guided Tour in Los Angeles: $287
  • 30 minutes Ferrari GTA Tour (from Hollywood Blvd to Outpost): $169
  • 5 Hour Hollywood and Beverly Hills Shared Tour with 4 Stops: $89
  • 50-Minutes Lamborghini Tour in Los Angeles: $239

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Grand Canyon National Park $11
    Los Angeles $15

Sample the Local Flavors in Los Angeles

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Los Angeles:

  • LA Ghosts Boos and Booze Haunted Pub Crawl: $35
  • LA Ghosts Boos and Booze Haunted Pub Crawl: $40
  • Salsa Lesson, Burlesque and Mojitos : $149
  • Salsa Lesson and Burlesque Show: $149
  • Malibu: Vintage VW Sightseeing Tour and Wine Tasting: $195
  • Wine Tour at Fess Parker Winery by Helicopter: $4,299


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

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