A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Grand Canyon National Park vs. Seattle for Couples, Backpackers, Food, and Nightlife

Should you visit Grand Canyon National Park or Seattle?

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 Seattle. 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 striking, breathtaking, and stunning national park. You'll find world class beauty in Grand Canyon National Park as well. Other popular activities here include hiking. See Grand Canyon National Park travel costs.

Seattle

Seattle is a progressive, cultural, and outdoorsy city. It's a large city with plenty of activites for visitors as well. Seattle is a gorgeous place to visit. Other reasons to visit include live music, food, and beaches. See Seattle travel costs.

Grand Canyon National Park and Seattle: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Nice resorts
  • Good for hiking
  • Known for its beauty
  • Family-friendly
  • 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 popular for nightlife
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Numerous theater shows
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for students
  • Big city activities
  • Home to the Space Needle
Things to Consider
  • Less charming
  • Less popular with couples
  • Less popular with backpackers


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

Visitors will usually find more to do in Seattle than Grand Canyon National Park, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Seattle is better known for its museums and attractions, theatre productions, food, nightlife, music, beaches, shopping, and big city activities, while Grand Canyon National Park is more popular for its resorts and impressive beauty. Grand Canyon National Park is more touristy than Seattle and is popular for its iconic beauty, layers of color, breathtaking sunsets, and world-renowned geological history. Seattle is well known for its beautiful waterfront setting, diverse culinary scene, thriving art and cultural venues, and being the home of many international tech companies. Also, Seattle is famous for The Space Needle.

How is Grand Canyon National Park different from Seattle?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Seattle 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 Seattle?

Grand Canyon National Park
Seattle

Seattle is a very popular place for its museums and history. However, Grand Canyon National Park does not have museums and landmarks.

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around Seattle. The city's most iconic landmark is the Space Needle. There's also a zoo, aquarium, and a handful of nice museums. Several favorites include the Chihuly Garden and Glass, the Museum of History & Industry, and the Seattle Art Museum.

Grand Canyon National Park does not have museums and landmarks.


Is Grand Canyon National Park or Seattle Better for Theater?

Grand Canyon National Park
Seattle

Seattle is a good destination for theatre. However, Grand Canyon National Park is not a theatre destination.

You'll find a nice selection of shows in Seattle. There are a handful of theaters where you can enjoy traveling Broadway shows or smaller productions.

Grand Canyon National Park is not a theatre destination.

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

Grand Canyon National Park
Seattle

Seattle is a very popular place for its restaurants. However, Grand Canyon National Park is lacking in good options for its restaurant scene.

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in Seattle. The city has many diverse dining options that make it a popular foodie destination. The seafood is world-class with many restaurants offering fresh caught salmon and oysters. There are also many great Asian restaurants with Pho, sushi, and dim sum all being popular around town. Seattle is also famous as the birthplace of Starbucks coffee, and both chain and independent coffee shops are common. Finally, make sure you check out the donuts at Pike's Place Market.

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 Seattle Better for Nightlife?

Grand Canyon National Park
Seattle

Seattle is a very popular place for nightlife. However, Grand Canyon National Park is lacking in good options for nightlife and partying.

Seattle has a large number of nightlife venues. The city is known for its breweries and eclectic nightlife scene. There is a thriving theater scene as well as many bars and trendy restaurants. The best neighborhoods for nightlife include Capitol Hill, Belltown, and Downtown.

Grand Canyon National Park is generally a quiet destination but there are options around. There's a couple of bars that aren't too far from the park but you'll do better to bring your own drinks and enjoy the scenic setting.


Is Grand Canyon National Park or Seattle Better for Music?

Grand Canyon National Park
Seattle

Seattle is a very popular place for live music. However, Grand Canyon National Park is not a live music destination.

It's worth checking out the music scene in Seattle while you're in town. The city has developed its own music culture around several genres including alternative rock and grunge.

Grand Canyon National Park is not a live music destination.

Is Grand Canyon National Park or Seattle Better for Resorts?

Grand Canyon National Park
Seattle

Grand Canyon National Park is a nice place to visit for its resorts. However, Seattle is not a resort destination.

Grand Canyon National Park has a few great resort options. 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.

Seattle is not a resort destination.

Is Grand Canyon National Park or Seattle Better for Beaches?

Grand Canyon National Park
Seattle

Seattle is a good destination for its beaches. However, Grand Canyon National Park is not a beach destination.

Seattle offers a nice beach destination. The city is surrounded by water so there are a number of rocky and sandy beaches nearby. Some beaches are more popular with locals while others attract a large amount of tourists. Alki Beach Park, Discovery Park, and Golden Gardens Park are among the best.

Grand Canyon National Park is not a beach destination.


Is Grand Canyon National Park or Seattle Better for Hiking?

Grand Canyon National Park
Seattle

Hiking trails can be found around both Grand Canyon National Park and Seattle, and they are great.

Many visitors explore the nearby hiking trails while visiting 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.

You'll find a nice variety of hiking trails around Seattle. It's famously an outdoorsy city and the hiking will not disappoint. Within a half hour drive of town you'll find beautiful forests and stunning natural beauty. Head into the Cascades, to the coastal rainforests, or around Mount Rainier for all kinds of diverse landscapes. Seattle is well situated for you to experience hiking through the diverse Pacific Northwest landscapes.

Is the Shopping Better in Grand Canyon National Park or Seattle?

Grand Canyon National Park
Seattle

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

Plenty of visitors enjoy shopping while in Seattle. Shopping in town has an eclectic mix of high end brands, local vendors, and vintage shops. There are farmers markets as well as the famous Pike Place Market, but also major malls with all of the standard department stores.

Grand Canyon National Park is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Grand Canyon National Park or Seattle More Beautiful?

Grand Canyon National Park
Seattle

Grand Canyon National Park is renowned for its scenery and beauty. Also, Seattle is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its scenery and beauty.

You'll find world class beauty in Grand Canyon National Park as well. The canyon is a breathtaking national landmark that has striking colors and spectacular views.

Seattle is a gorgeous place to visit. Set against the backdrop of Mt. Rainier, the city has both natural and architectural beauty. It's also beautifully situated on the water with lots of parks and vegetation throughout.


Is Grand Canyon National Park or Seattle Better for Families?

Grand Canyon National Park
Seattle

Both Grand Canyon National Park and Seattle are notable family-friendly destinations.

Grand Canyon National Park is a family-friendly 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.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Seattle. This is an outdoor city with plenty of places where kids can run around and experience nature. There are several good museums as well as outdoor activities, parks, and a zoo. Make sure you check out the Burke Museum of Natural History and Culture, Volunteer Park, and Artists at Play Playground.

Is Grand Canyon National Park or Seattle Better for Couples?

Grand Canyon National Park
Seattle

Grand Canyon National Park is renowned for couples. Also, Seattle is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for romance.

Grand Canyon National Park has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. 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!).

Seattle is a nice destination for couples. The city has a laid back vibe, a nice downtown area, and plenty of outdoor activities. There are a diversity of restaurants to enjoy and a great nightlife scene that makes for a good couple's getaway.

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

Grand Canyon National Park
Seattle

Grand Canyon National Park is renowned for backpackers. Also, Seattle is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

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

Seattle is a good national park to visit for backpackers. Although it's not the most popular city for backpackers in America, the city's chill vibe, fun breweries, and lively setting make it a great spot for young backpackers.


Is Grand Canyon National Park or Seattle Better for Students?

Grand Canyon National Park
Seattle

Seattle is a very popular place for its student-friendly activities. However, Grand Canyon National Park is not popular with students.

Many students visit Seattle. It is a major IT center with a large university, so international students will have plenty of opportunities here. It's also a vibrant city with many outdoor recreational opportunities and a fun nightlife scene.

Grand Canyon National Park is not popular with students.

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

Grand Canyon National Park
Seattle

Seattle 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.

Seattle has some public transit options. There is a light rail system, a monorail, a street car, 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 Seattle a more walkable city?

Grand Canyon National Park
Seattle

Seattle 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.

Seattle is very walkable. Many neighborhoods are very walkable, particularly in the downtown and major tourist areas.

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 Grand Canyon National Park Worth Visiting? and Is Seattle Worth Visiting?.

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

How long in Grand Canyon National Park or Seattle?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Grand Canyon National Park and Seattle. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Grand Canyon National Park than in Seattle. Usually, 1-4 days is a good amount of time for Grand Canyon National Park, and 2-3 days is enough time in Seattle.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Seattle 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 Seattle.


  • How many days in Grand Canyon National Park or Seattle? Ideal Length of Stay
    Grand Canyon National Park 1-4 
    Seattle 2-3

One day in Grand Canyon National Park or Seattle?

In Grand Canyon National Park, you'll find . Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. This national park offers something for everyone. This would be the perfect place to spend one day, as it has just the right amount of activities.

Each neighborhood in Seattle 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 Seattle?

In Grand Canyon National Park, you'll find . The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Grand Canyon National Park has to offer.

Each neighborhood in Seattle has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything. Many people spend a weekend here. A weekend is often enough time to do most activities.

Five days in Grand Canyon National Park or Seattle?

Grand Canyon National Park is a great place to explore. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

Many people enjoy the theater and nightlife when visiting Seattle. 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. This city offers something for everyone.


A week in Grand Canyon National Park or Seattle?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Grand Canyon National Park. Many people enjoy the when visiting Grand Canyon National Park. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and live music when visiting the city of Seattle. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. 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 G Adventures Tours to United States of America, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Las Vegas, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Anchorage, and The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Los Angeles.


Which place is cheaper, Seattle or Grand Canyon National Park?

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

  • Grand Canyon National Park Prices
    USA Prices
    Seattle Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Grand Canyon National Park $203
    Seattle $242

The average daily cost (per person) in Grand Canyon National Park is $203, while the average daily cost in Seattle is $242. 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 Seattle in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Grand Canyon National Park $89
    Seattle $120
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Grand Canyon National Park $178
    Seattle $240
Compare Hotels in Grand Canyon National Park and Seattle

Looking for a hotel in Grand Canyon National Park or Seattle? 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 Seattle


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 Seattle Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Grand Canyon National Park $43
    Seattle $30

Typical Local Transportation Prices in Seattle

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


  • Lightrail from Airport (for 2)
    $5.50
  • Roundtrip Ferry to Bainbridge Island (for 2)
    $15

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Seattle

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Seattle:

  • Try find your better than us ! Airport transfer service in Seattle APT-HTL (SEA): $143
  • Smith Cove Terminal to Seattle Tacoma Airport (SEA) - Departure Private Transfer: $126
  • One-Way Private Transfer from Seattle Airport: $77
  • One Way Airport Transfer Service: $112
  • Seattle Tacoma Airport (SEA) to Smith Cove Terminal - Arrival Private Transfer: $126
  • Seattle Departure Chauffeur Driven Airport Transfer by Sedan: $75
  • Seattle Departure Chauffeur Driven Airport Transfer by Executive Sedan : $75
  • Seattle Departure Chauffeur Driven Airport Transfer by Executive SUV: $88
  • Seattle Airport Transfer Arrival & Departures (outer city): $135
  • Seattle Airport (SEA): Private Transfer to/from Downtown: $119
  • Round Trip Private Transfer SEA Airport to Seattle City Bellevue: $83
  • Private Transfer from Smith Cove Terminal to Seattle Hotels: $126

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

Prices for flights to both Seattle 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 $84
    Seattle $88

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Grand Canyon National Park

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

  • Grand Canyon South Rim Sunset Tour with Dinner: $180

Typical Food Prices in Seattle

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


  • Expresso & cookie at Pier 70
    $7.00
  • Cashews at Pike Place Market
    $6.00
  • 6 Mini Donuts at Pike Place Market
    $3.25
  • Chinese Lunch in International District (for 2)
    $21
  • Breakfast at Lowel's in Pike Place Market (for 2)
    $32
  • Breakfast at French Cafe (for 2)
    $37

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Seattle

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

  • Meet Me in the Market Food Tour: $44
  • Secret Food Tours Seattle: $65
  • Secret Food Tours: Seattle Pike Place Market: $68
  • Chef Guided Food Tour of Pike Place Market- 2 Hours: $69
  • Pike Place Market Chef-Guided Food Tour: $69
  • Street Food Tour of South Lake Union: $75
  • Private Pike Place Market Tour and Cooking Class with a Local: $88
  • Pike Place Market Food Tour: $99
  • Pike Place Market Gourmet Food Tour: $110
  • Pike Place Market Gourmet Food Tour: $110
  • Craft Cocktail Gourmet Food Tour: $135
  • 3-Course Progressive Dinner with Cocktail Pairings: $135

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Grand Canyon National Park $35
    Seattle $16

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
  • Ultimate Arizona Self-Guided Driving and Walking Tour Bundle: $36
  • Grand Canyon West Admission Ticket: $58
  • Take a Scottsdale/Valley Tour in a Retro Party Bus - Old Town/Scottsdale: $69
  • 3 Hour Off-Road Sunset Safari to Grand Canyon with Entrance Gate Detour : $123
  • Grand Canyon Signature Hummer Tour with Optional Sunset Views: $127
  • Express Grand Canyon Jeep Tour : $131
  • Grand Canyon West Rim Micro Tour: $145
  • 4-Hour Grand Canyon Morning Rim Tour featuring Biblical Creation: $149
  • 4-Hour Biblical Creation + Sunset Tour • Grand Canyon National Park South Rim: $149
  • Premier Grand Canyon JeepTour: $153
  • Small Group Day Tour to Grand Canyon from Flagstaff: $175

Tours and Activities in Seattle

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

  • Leavenworth Exclusive Tour from Seattle: $195
  • 2-Hour Seattle Sailing Harbor Tour: $45
  • 3 Hour Show Me Seattle Best Of The City Tour: $80
  • 3 Hours Electric Bike Tour of Seattle's Waterways, Nature and Neighborhoods: $90
  • Alki Lighthouse Sea Kayak Tour: $150
  • Bainbridge Island Serenity Forest Hike & Cultural Landmarks Tour: $149
  • Beneath The Streets Underground History Tour: $29
  • Best of Seattle Small Group Walking Tour W/ Space Needle: $244
  • Boeing Factory Tour with Guided Transport from Seattle: $125
  • CitySightseeing Seattle Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour + Bookable Extras: $59
  • Downtown Seattle Self-Guided Walking Audio Tour: $13
  • Early-Bird Tasting Tour of Pike Place Market: $76

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Grand Canyon National Park $11
    Seattle $16

Sample the Local Flavors in Seattle

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

  • Seattle Terrors Spirits & Spirits Haunted Pub Crawl: $35
  • Seattle Terrors Spirits & Spirits Haunted Pub Crawl: $35
  • Seattle Terrors: Spirits & Spirits Haunted Pub Crawl: $39
  • Woodinville Wine Country: Downtown Wine Tasting Pass: $65
  • Bon Vivant Woodinville Wine Tasting Tour : $120
  • All-inclusive Wine Tasting and Lunch Experience: $224
  • From Snoqualmie Falls & Woodinville Wine Tasting: $262


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Grand Canyon National Park and Seattle, we can see that Seattle 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 Seattle would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Seattle 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 Seattle Expensive?.