A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Jekyll Island vs. Ketchikan for Food, Hiking, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Jekyll Island or Ketchikan?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Jekyll Island and Ketchikan can help. It includes a travel cost comparison in addition to other factors. For many travelers, the cost of a destination is a primary consideration when choosing where to go.

Jekyll Island

Jekyll Island is a natural, relaxing, and secluded island. It's also known for beaches, hiking, and museums.

Ketchikan

Ketchikan is a quaint, local, and scenic town. This is a charming small with plenty of activities, too. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the hiking, shopping, and museums.

Jekyll Island and Ketchikan: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Jekyll Island or Ketchikan?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Ketchikan than Jekyll Island, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Ketchikan is better known for its food, nightlife, hiking, shopping, small town charm, and impressive beauty, while Jekyll Island is more popular for its resorts and beaches. Ketchikan is more touristy than Jekyll Island and is popular for its salmon fishing, beautiful natural environment, and strong sense of local culture. Also, Ketchikan is famous for the Southeast Alaska Discovery Center. Jekyll Island is well known for its quiet beaches and its Historic District.

How is Jekyll Island different from Ketchikan?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Ketchikan and Jekyll Island. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Jekyll Island or Ketchikan?

You'll find a number of notable museums and attractions in both Ketchikan and Jekyll Island.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Jekyll Island. Mosaic is the history museum on the island. The museum also offers historic tours of the area's sites. The Historic District is a popular place to visit with its well-maintained historic cottages and other structures.

Ketchikan is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. There are a few local museums in town such as the Tongass Historical Museum and the Totem Heritage Center.

Is the Food Better in Jekyll Island or Ketchikan? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Ketchikan is a must-visit destination for its restaurants. However, Jekyll Island is lacking in good options for its restaurant scene.

Many restaurants in Ketchikan have been singled out for their culinary prowess. It's known as the salmon capital of the world for good reason. You can expect some of the freshest seafood around with many local restaurants serving up fresh Dungeness Crab, Alaska King Crab, and Alaskan King Salmon. It's a huge fishing destination and the cuisine reflects that, but even if you're looking for a landlover's menu, you'll find a number of good dishes.

Jekyll Island offers some easy restaurants to choose from. Many restaurants are casual with low country dishes or fried seafood. You'll find some brunch places as well as cafes and quick dining eateries around town.

Is Jekyll Island or Ketchikan Better for Nightlife?

Ketchikan is a decent place to visit for its evening party scene. However, Jekyll Island is lacking in good options for nightlife.

Those looking for nightlife will find a few places to hang out in Ketchikan. Because most visitors arrive by cruise ship, there's a more local vibe to the nightlife scene. You'll find a few local bars around town where you can enjoy a drink and good conversation.

Things get quiet in the evenings in Jekyll Island. There are sunset cruises, but otherwise the nightlife scene is quiet.

Is Jekyll Island or Ketchikan Better for Resorts?

Jekyll Island is a moderate island for its resorts. However, Ketchikan is not a resort destination.

Jekyll Island has a few resort options worth checking out. You'll mostly find mid-range hotels on the island.

Ketchikan is not a resort destination.

Is Jekyll Island or Ketchikan Better for Beaches?

Jekyll Island is notable for its beaches. However, Ketchikan is not a beach destination.

Jekyll Island is a very popular place to visit for its beaches. Unspoiled beaches are the biggest draw. Some areas are rocky, but the beaches are peaceful and perfect for walks if you want to get away from the crowds. Much of the island is a state park, so it's undeveloped and pristine.

Ketchikan is not a beach destination.

Is Jekyll Island or Ketchikan Better for Hiking?

Ketchikan is a must-visit destination for its hiking trails. Also, Jekyll Island is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its hiking experiences.

Around Ketchikan visitors will find world-class hiking trails. You'll find many hikes that will take you through the local vegetation or to impressive viewpoints. Some hikes involve challenging climbs while others are more relaxing. Some visitors prefer to hire a guide to the lead them through the Alaskan wilderness, but the most popular and easier trails are usually well marked.

You'll find a nice variety of hiking trails around Jekyll Island. The state park has some trails that are nice. There are also beach walks, bike trails, and routes that take you through historic sites.

Is the Shopping Better in Jekyll Island or Ketchikan?

Ketchikan is a town with good options for its shopping areas. However, Jekyll Island is lacking in good options for shopping.

Ketchikan has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. As tourism has grown, the shopping in downtown Ketchikan has shifted from locally-oriented venders to jewelry and souvenir stores. Many shops are only open during the summer months, and you'll find the more local shops outside of town.

Jekyll Island is a good destination for shopping. You'll find a few gift shops and boutiques, but in general, shopping options are limited.

Is Jekyll Island or Ketchikan Better for Families?

Both Jekyll Island and Ketchikan are superb to visit with kids.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Jekyll Island. Kids will love climbing and playing at Driftwood Beach, which is like a natural playground. Animal lovers will enjoy dolphin cruises or a visit to a turtle hospital. There's also the standard beach activities like minigolf, bike rental, and tram tours.

Ketchikan is a very family-friendly place to visit. There are a number of kid-friendly activities and tours, but do note that many tours book up fully with cruise ship passengers. Any tours you wish to do should be arranged well in advance. Popular kid-friendly activities include the Great Alaskan Lumberjack Show, Misty Fjords, and a visit to Totem Bight State Historical Park. Everyone will enjoy learning about the area's history and nature at the Southeast Alaska Discovery Center. And anyone who enjoys the show "The Most Dangerous Catch" will appreciate the Bering Sea Crab Fishermen's Tour.

Is Jekyll Island or Ketchikan Better for Couples?

Ketchikan is a very popular place for couples. Also, Jekyll Island is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for romance.

Ketchikan makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Couples who enjoy natural beauty, hiking, and wildlife will appreciate their time here. There are many opportunities for fishing and a plethora of seafood restaurants in the area that take advantage of this past time.

Jekyll Island is a nice destination for couples. There are several basic hotels as well as a few campgrounds. Couples will enjoy the beaches, but the island is small with limited activities and restaurant options. If you love natural scenery then this is a great destination, but there are fewer amenities than there are in many beach areas.

Is Jekyll Island or Ketchikan Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Ketchikan is a town with good options for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Jekyll Island is lacking in good options for backpackers.

Ketchikan is a good town to visit for backpackers. While most visitors arrive by cruise ship, for those travel independently will appreciate the hostel in town.

Jekyll Island is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. There are a few campgrounds in the area as well as some nice beaches.

Is Jekyll Island or Ketchikan Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Ketchikan is a decent place to visit for times when you don't have a car. However, Jekyll Island is lacking in good options for its public transit.

Public transit is mostly limited in Ketchikan. There are buses that travel through town.

Public transit is limited or non-existant in Jekyll Island. There are bus and trolley tours, but public transportation is mostly non-existent.

Is Jekyll Island or Ketchikan a more walkable city?

Ketchikan is a very popular place for its ease of walking around. However, Jekyll Island is lacking in good options for its walkability.

Ketchikan is a very walkable destination. The downtown is relatively compact and walkable.

Jekyll Island is not a walkable island. Resources are spread out, so you really need a car to get around.

For even more information, also check out Is Jekyll Island Worth Visiting? and Is Ketchikan Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Ketchikan or Jekyll Island?

How long in Jekyll Island or Ketchikan?

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

Couples should spend more time in Ketchikan than Jekyll Island. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Ketchikan that are perfect for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Ketchikan than Jekyll Island 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 Ketchikan.

One day in Jekyll Island or Ketchikan?

You'll find museums around the island of Jekyll Island. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Many travelers enjoy the museums and food when visiting the quaint destination of Ketchikan. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. Your budget might influence how long you stay. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then one day is just the right amount of time to spend here.

A weekend in Jekyll Island or Ketchikan?

You'll find museums around the secluded destination of Jekyll Island. Hikers are also drawn to this area. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this island has to offer. This island offers a variety of activities to choose from.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Ketchikan. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. A weekend is usually enough time to experience most activities.

Five days in Jekyll Island or Ketchikan?

Travelers enjoy the museums when visiting the relaxing island of Jekyll Island. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. It's also a great beach destination, too. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the quaint destination of Ketchikan. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from. Five days is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips.

A week in Jekyll Island or Ketchikan?

Jekyll Island is a popular choice for travelers. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. One week is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

You'll find museums and food around the beautiful town of Ketchikan. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 2-Week Tours from Los Angeles, The Best Family-Friendly Tours to United States of America, The Best Wildlife Tours to United States of America, and The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in United States of America.

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

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Jekyll Island Expensive? and Is Ketchikan Expensive?.

When is the best time to visit Jekyll Island or Ketchikan?

Both places have a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. As both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Jekyll Island or Ketchikan in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Jekyll Island as well as Ketchikan. Many visitors come to Jekyll Island in the summer for the beaches, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Ketchikan for the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In the summer, Jekyll Island is much warmer than Ketchikan. Typically, the summer temperatures in Jekyll Island in July average around 82°F (28°C), and Ketchikan averages at about 58°F (15°C).

It's quite rainy in Ketchikan. Jekyll Island receives a lot of rain in the summer. Jekyll Island usually gets less rain in July than Ketchikan. Jekyll Island gets 5.4 inches (137 mm) of rain, while Ketchikan receives 7.6 inches (193 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Jekyll Island or Ketchikan in the Autumn?

Both Ketchikan and Jekyll Island are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Jekyll Island for the hiking trails and the shopping scene during these months. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Ketchikan because of the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Jekyll Island is generally much warmer than Ketchikan. Daily temperatures in Jekyll Island average around 70°F (21°C), and Ketchikan fluctuates around 46°F (8°C).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Ketchikan. In October, Jekyll Island usually receives less rain than Ketchikan. Jekyll Island gets 2.9 inches (73 mm) of rain, while Ketchikan receives 22.9 inches (581 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Jekyll Island or Ketchikan in the Winter?

Both Ketchikan and Jekyll Island during the winter are popular places to visit. The winter months attract visitors to Jekyll Island because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Furthermore, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Ketchikan this time of year.

It's quite cold in Ketchikan in the winter. Jekyll Island is much warmer than Ketchikan in the winter. The daily temperature in Jekyll Island averages around 53°F (12°C) in January, and Ketchikan fluctuates around 34°F (1°C).

Ketchikan gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Jekyll Island usually gets less rain in January than Ketchikan. Jekyll Island gets 3.3 inches (83 mm) of rain, while Ketchikan receives 14.9 inches (379 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Jekyll Island or Ketchikan in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Jekyll Island and Ketchikan. The beaches are the main draw to Jekyll Island this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Ketchikan for the small town charm and the natural beauty.

In the spring, Jekyll Island is much warmer than Ketchikan. Typically, the spring temperatures in Jekyll Island in April average around 68°F (20°C), and Ketchikan averages at about 44°F (6°C).

Ketchikan receives a lot of rain in the spring. In April, Jekyll Island usually receives less rain than Ketchikan. Jekyll Island gets 2.8 inches (72 mm) of rain, while Ketchikan receives 11.3 inches (286 mm) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Ketchikan and Jekyll Island