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

Should you visit Kennebunkport or Ketchikan?

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

Should I visit Kennebunkport or Ketchikan? 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.

Kennebunkport

Kennebunkport is a charming, quaint, and character-filled town. This is a great small town that is just waiting to be explored. It's a gorgeous place to visit. It's also known for shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Ketchikan

Ketchikan is a local, scenic, and quaint town. With fun activities and sights, this is a small town worth visiting. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Other reasons to visit include museums, food, and hiking.

Kennebunkport and Ketchikan: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Nice resorts
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Small town charm
Things to Consider
  • Less hiking options
  • Less popular with backpackers
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife


Is there more to do in Kennebunkport or Ketchikan?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Ketchikan. Although Kennebunkport and Ketchikan are both popular with visitors, Ketchikan has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Ketchikan is more popular for its food, hiking, and impressive beauty, while Kennebunkport is known for its nightlife, resorts, shopping, and small town charm. Kennebunkport is popular for its historic and charming atmosphere, its wonderful local seafood, and its stunning coastline. Ketchikan is popular for its salmon fishing, beautiful natural environment, and strong sense of local culture. It is also home to the Southeast Alaska Discovery Center.

How is Kennebunkport different from Ketchikan?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Kennebunkport or Ketchikan?

Kennebunkport
Ketchikan

Spend time exploring the good sights and museums in either Kennebunkport or Ketchikan.

Kennebunkport is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. There are a handful of local museums around town like the Brick Store Museum, the First Families Kennebunkport Museum, and the Seashore Trolley Museum.

Ketchikan offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. There are a few local museums in town such as the Tongass Historical Museum and the Totem Heritage Center.


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

Kennebunkport
Ketchikan

Ketchikan is very popular for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Kennebunkport is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its local cuisine and restaurants.

For foodies, Ketchikan is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. 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.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Kennebunkport. Fine dining, seafood restaurants, and local cafes all make this a wonderful town for foodies. The town's famous for its lobster, but you can also try the scallops, crab, or oysters.

Is Kennebunkport or Ketchikan Better for Nightlife?

Kennebunkport
Ketchikan

Kennebunkport is very good for nightlife. However, Ketchikan is a mediocre town for nightlife and partying.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Kennebunkport. You can check out the happy hours that many of the bars in the waterfront area host regularly.

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.

Is Kennebunkport or Ketchikan Better for Resorts?

Kennebunkport
Ketchikan

Kennebunkport is notable for its resorts. However, Ketchikan is not a resort destination.

Vacationers can choose from a number of terrific resorts in Kennebunkport. Luxury resorts and classic inns provide traditional and local accommodation options for visitors.

Ketchikan is not a resort destination.


Is Kennebunkport or Ketchikan Better for Hiking?

Kennebunkport
Ketchikan

Ketchikan is very popular for hiking. Also, Kennebunkport is not as popular, but is still a nice town for the nearby hiking options.

People visit Ketchikan specifically for its hiking, as the natural beauty is well-known. 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.

Many people include a hike when visiting Kennebunkport. There are waterfront walks and coastal trails. There are also trails that wander through forests or past marshland.

Is the Shopping Better in Kennebunkport or Ketchikan?

Kennebunkport
Ketchikan

Kennebunkport is notable for shopping. Also, Ketchikan is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its shopping opportunities.

Kennebunkport is an extremely popular place for shoppers. Head to Dock's Square for the best local shops with a charming atmosphere.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Ketchikan. 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.

Is Kennebunkport or Ketchikan Better for Families?

Kennebunkport
Ketchikan

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Kennebunkport or Ketchikan.

Kennebunkport is a very family-friendly destination. You can explore the rocks around Mother's Beach or take the kids out on a lobster boat. There's also a lot of history around Dock's Square and plenty of kid-friendly restaurants in town.

Ketchikan is a very kid-friendly town. 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 Kennebunkport or Ketchikan Better for Couples?

Kennebunkport
Ketchikan

With fun activities for couples, both Kennebunkport and Ketchikan make for a great place to visit.

Kennebunkport is a great town if you're traveling as a couple. Beaches, romantic hotels, and charming local restaurants make this a perfect couple's destination.

Ketchikan is a very popular place to visit for couples. 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.

Is Kennebunkport or Ketchikan Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Kennebunkport
Ketchikan

Ketchikan is a popular place for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Kennebunkport is not a good destination for backpackers.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Ketchikan. While most visitors arrive by cruise ship, for those travel independently will appreciate the hostel in town.

Kennebunkport is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. You'll find cabins and motels in the area, but no real hostels.

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

Kennebunkport
Ketchikan

Kennebunkport and Ketchikan both offer decent public transit to get you around.

Public transit is mostly limited in Kennebunkport. During the summer months there's a Shoreline Trolley that connects towns.

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


Is Kennebunkport or Ketchikan a more walkable city?

Kennebunkport
Ketchikan

Ketchikan is great for its walkability. Also, Kennebunkport is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its high level of walkability.

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

Kennebunkport is a somewhat walkable place. It's downtown is compact and particularly walkable.

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

Should I spend more time in Ketchikan or Kennebunkport?

How long in Kennebunkport or Ketchikan?

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

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

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


  • How many days in Kennebunkport or Ketchikan? Ideal Length of Stay
    Kennebunkport 2-4 
    Ketchikan 1-3

One day in Kennebunkport or Ketchikan?

Even though Kennebunkport is a small town, it has plenty of activities to choose from. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. 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 local 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 Kennebunkport or Ketchikan?

Kennebunkport is a small town where visitors enjoy the museums and nightlife. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this town has to offer. This town 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 Kennebunkport or Ketchikan?

Kennebunkport is a small town, so it's a great destination if you're short on time. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. It's also a relaxing resort destination. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the scenic 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 Kennebunkport or Ketchikan?

Kennebunkport is a popular choice for travelers. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. 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 Tours Under $1000 in United States of America, The Best Luxury Tours to United States of America, The Best Tours for Seniors to United States of America, and The Best Contiki Tours to United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Ketchikan or Kennebunkport?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Kennebunkport is $220, while the average daily cost in Ketchikan is $220. 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 Kennebunkport and Ketchikan in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Kennebunkport $124
    Ketchikan $136
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Kennebunkport $248
    Ketchikan $272
Compare Hotels in Kennebunkport and Ketchikan

Looking for a hotel in Kennebunkport or Ketchikan? 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 Kennebunkport


Hotels in Ketchikan


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: Kennebunkport Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Kennebunkport $49
    Ketchikan $39

Typical Local Transportation Prices in Ketchikan

Some typical examples of transportation costs in Ketchikan are as follows:


  • Bus Ride
    $1.00

Is it cheaper to fly into Kennebunkport or Ketchikan?

Prices for flights to both Ketchikan and Kennebunkport 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
    Kennebunkport $67
    Ketchikan $53

Typical Food Prices in Ketchikan

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


  • Slice of Pie & Drink
    $5.00

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Kennebunkport $21
    Ketchikan $46

Tours and Activities in Kennebunkport

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Kennebunkport.

  • Haunted Ghost Walking Tour: $27
  • Ghost Tour with Folklore, Gossip & Scandals: $29
  • 90 Minutes Ghost Walking Tour in Kennebunkport: $30
  • Historic District Walking Tour: $45
  • 2-Hour Historical Walking Tour: $50
  • A Tasty Lunchtime Walking Tour: $140

Typical Entertainment Prices in Ketchikan

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


  • Ticket to Great Alaskan Lumberjack Show
    $35
  • Duck Tour (one person)
    $38
  • Bear Viewing Tour
    $83

Tours and Activities in Ketchikan

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

  • “OVER THE TOP TOURS”AK Wildlife & Totem poles Tour.: $95
  • 2 Hour Alaska Rainforest Walk and Totem Park Small Group Tour: $85
  • 2.5 Hour Tour in Ketchikan on the Tongass Trolley: $72
  • AdVenture with the Venturer: $199
  • Adventure Kart Expedition- Ketchikan, AK: $280
  • Alaska Bigfoot Adventures: $149
  • Alaska Marine Fast Boat Adventure : $194
  • Alaska Native Cultural Immersion Experience and Ketchikan Tour: $89
  • Alaskan Cultural, Culinary and Lumberjack Show Experience: $149
  • Alaskan Lodge Adventure and Seafeast: $196
  • Bering Sea Crab Fisherman's Tour from Ketchikan: $229
  • Bering Sea Crab Fishermen's Tour: $219

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Kennebunkport $31
    Ketchikan $23


When comparing the travel costs between Kennebunkport and Ketchikan, we can see that Kennebunkport is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Since both cities are in North America, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

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


Which is Bigger, Kennebunkport or Ketchikan?

Ketchikan has a larger population, and is about 5 times larger than the population of Kennebunkport. When comparing the sizes of Kennebunkport and Ketchikan, keep in mind that a larger population does not always imply the destination has more attractions or better activities. So, always research the type of place that you want to visit along with the activities and attractions that interest you.


When is the best time to visit Kennebunkport 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 Kennebunkport or Ketchikan in the Summer?

Both Ketchikan and Kennebunkport during the summer are popular places to visit. The hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Kennebunkport this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Ketchikan for the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences.

Kennebunkport is a little warmer than Ketchikan in the summer. The daily temperature in Kennebunkport averages around 69°F (20°C) in July, and Ketchikan fluctuates around 58°F (15°C).

Ketchikan gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Kennebunkport usually gets less rain in July than Ketchikan. Kennebunkport gets 2.6 inches (66 mm) of rain, while Ketchikan receives 7.6 inches (193 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Kennebunkport 69°F (20°C) 
    Ketchikan 58°F (15°C)

Should I visit Kennebunkport or Ketchikan in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Kennebunkport and Ketchikan. Many travelers come to Kennebunkport for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, many visitors come to Ketchikan in the autumn for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Kennebunkport is a little warmer than Ketchikan. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Kennebunkport in October average around 49°F (9°C), and Ketchikan averages at about 46°F (8°C).

Ketchikan receives a lot of rain in the autumn. In October, Kennebunkport usually receives less rain than Ketchikan. Kennebunkport gets 3.3 inches (84 mm) of rain, while Ketchikan receives 22.9 inches (581 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Kennebunkport 49°F (9°C) 
    Ketchikan 46°F (8°C)

Should I visit Kennebunkport or Ketchikan in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Kennebunkport as well as Ketchikan. Many visitors come to Kennebunkport in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Ketchikan for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Ketchikan can be very cold during winter. Kennebunkport can get quite cold in the winter. In January, Kennebunkport is generally much colder than Ketchikan. Daily temperatures in Kennebunkport average around 21°F (-6°C), and Ketchikan fluctuates around 34°F (1°C).

It's quite rainy in Ketchikan. Kennebunkport usually gets less rain in January than Ketchikan. Kennebunkport gets 3.4 inches (86 mm) of rain, while Ketchikan receives 14.9 inches (379 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Kennebunkport 21°F (-6°C) 
    Ketchikan 34°F (1°C)

Should I visit Kennebunkport or Ketchikan in the Spring?

Both Ketchikan and Kennebunkport are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Kennebunkport for the small town charm and the natural beauty during these months. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Ketchikan because of the small town charm and the natural beauty.

Kennebunkport is around the same temperature as Ketchikan in the spring. The daily temperature in Kennebunkport averages around 43°F (6°C) in April, and Ketchikan fluctuates around 44°F (6°C).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Ketchikan. In April, Kennebunkport usually receives less rain than Ketchikan. Kennebunkport gets 3.3 inches (85 mm) of rain, while Ketchikan receives 11.3 inches (286 mm) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Kennebunkport 43°F (6°C) 
    Ketchikan 44°F (6°C)

Typical Weather for Ketchikan and Kennebunkport

Kennebunkport Ketchikan
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 21°F (-6°C) 3.4 inches (86 mm) 34°F (1°C) 14.9 inches (379 mm)
Feb 24°F (-5°C) 3.5 inches (89 mm) 38°F (3°C) 13.2 inches (335 mm)
Mar 33°F (1°C) 3.6 inches (91 mm) 39°F (4°C) 10.6 inches (270 mm)
Apr 43°F (6°C) 3.3 inches (85 mm) 44°F (6°C) 11.3 inches (286 mm)
May 53°F (12°C) 3.3 inches (85 mm) 49°F (9°C) 9.3 inches (237 mm)
Jun 63°F (17°C) 3.1 inches (79 mm) 54°F (12°C) 8.2 inches (209 mm)
Jul 69°F (20°C) 2.6 inches (66 mm) 58°F (15°C) 7.6 inches (193 mm)
Aug 67°F (20°C) 2.6 inches (66 mm) 59°F (15°C) 11.1 inches (281 mm)
Sep 59°F (15°C) 3.1 inches (78 mm) 54°F (12°C) 13.2 inches (335 mm)
Oct 49°F (9°C) 3.3 inches (84 mm) 46°F (8°C) 22.9 inches (581 mm)
Nov 39°F (4°C) 4.8 inches (123 mm) 40°F (4°C) 17.3 inches (441 mm)
Dec 27°F (-3°C) 4.1 inches (103 mm) 36°F (2°C) 15.7 inches (398 mm)