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

Should you visit Key West or Grand Teton National Park?

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

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

Key West

Key West is a quaint, laid-back, and quirky 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. Since it has a quaint atmosphere, you'll want to spend time soaking it all in. Other reasons to visit include beaches, nightlife, and food.

Grand Teton National Park

Grand Teton National Park is a vast, spectacular, and impressive park. You'll find world class beauty here as well. And you can't forget about the hiking.

Key West and Grand Teton National Park: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Active nightlife
  • Good scuba and snorkeling destination
  • Popular beach
  • Scenic old town
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for students
  • Impressive beauty
  • Quaint atmosphere
Things to Consider
  • 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 Key West or Grand Teton National Park?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Key West. Although Key West and Grand Teton National Park are popular destinations, Key West has more sights and attractions for tourists. Key West is very popular for its food, nightlife, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, historical sights, small town charm, and quaint atmosphere, while Grand Teton National Park attracts visitors for its museums, hiking, and impressive beauty. Key West is more touristy than Grand Teton National Park and is popular for its festive nightlife, quirky town center, colorful personality, adrenaline-filled watersports, stunning beaches, turquoise water, and location at the southernmost point of the continental U.S. It is also well known for Duval Street. Grand Teton National Park is famous for its grand peaks and diverse wildlife.

How is Key West different from Grand Teton National Park?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Key West
Grand Teton National Park

Grand Teton National Park is a moderate park for its sights and museums. However, Key West does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Key West does not have museums and landmarks.


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

Key West
Grand Teton National Park

Key West is a popular place for its local flavors and cuisine. However, Grand Teton National Park is not known for its local cuisine and restaurants.

There are plenty of up and coming restaurants around Key West. Head to town for local restaurants with quirky atmospheres. There are many local dishes to sample, be the town is most known for its stone crabs, conch fritters, and Mahi Mahi sandwiches. You'll also find cold drinks and waterfront dining areas.

You'll find the standard options when it comes to food in Grand Teton National Park. There are a number of restaurants and cafes around the park where you can enjoy a meal, often with a view.

Is Key West or Grand Teton National Park Better for Nightlife?

Key West
Grand Teton National Park

Key West is a great town for nightlife. However, Grand Teton National Park is not known for nightlife and partying.

The nightlife in Key West has something for everybody. This area has some of the most lively nightlife in the Florida Keys. There are quirky bars and fun hangouts where you can spend the evening. The party starts at Mallory Square around sunset and many bars stay open well into the early hours. You can also enjoy sunset cruises or pass your time at one of the many tiki bars.

Most people don't head to Grand Teton National Park specifically for the nightlife scene, but you can find a few options. There's a lounge at Jackson Lake Lodge, but most visitors enjoy a relaxing night in.

Is Key West or Grand Teton National Park Better for Resorts?

Key West
Grand Teton National Park

Key West and Grand Teton National Park offer a relatively similar set of high quality luxury resort options.

Key West is known as a popular and fun resort destination. There are a number of high end resorts around the island, many with recognizable names such as the Hyatt and Hilton. Prices can be high, but these resorts often come with reliable luxury.

Vacationers can choose from a number of terrific resorts in Grand Teton National Park. There are several impressive lodges within the park, as well as cabins and more rustic hotels.


Is Key West or Grand Teton National Park Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Key West
Grand Teton National Park

Key West is a popular place for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Grand Teton National Park is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Key West has a few good snorkeling spots. There are a number of dive shops and snorkeling excursions that leave from Key West. Like many tourist areas these days, the coral shows its damage from the crowds, but you'll likely see some barracuda or a Grouper.

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

Is Key West or Grand Teton National Park Better for Beaches?

Key West
Grand Teton National Park

Key West is a great town for its beaches. However, Grand Teton National Park is not a beach destination.

Key West is considered a top beach destination. One of the best beaches in the area is Fort Zachary Taylor Historic State Park. The beach has soft sand and stunning turquoise water. As is typical in the Keys, the water stays shallow for great distances.

Grand Teton National Park is not a beach destination.

Is Key West or Grand Teton National Park Better for its Old Town?

Key West
Grand Teton National Park

Key West is a great town for its historic old town. However, Grand Teton National Park does not have a historic old town.

Many visitors explore the old town while visiting Key West. The town has the most charming Old Town areas in the Florida Keys. Head to Mallory Square for the sunset street performers and explore the historic streets around Duval Street.

Grand Teton National Park does not have a historic old town.


Is Key West or Grand Teton National Park Better for Hiking?

Key West
Grand Teton National Park

Grand Teton National Park is renowned for the nearby hiking options. However, Key West is not a hiking destination.

People visit Grand Teton National Park specifically for its hiking, as the natural beauty is well-known. Grand Teton National Park has more than 250 miles of trails that make their way through the mountains and around the rugged landscapes. There are hikes that range from short strolls to backcountry, mult-day trails and it's not uncommon to see wildlife.

Key West is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Key West or Grand Teton National Park?

Key West
Grand Teton National Park

Both Key West and Grand Teton National Park are reasonable shopping destinations.

If you're looking to go shopping, Key West has some nice offerings. While it definitely has its share of gimmicky souvenir shops and t-shirt stores, there are still a number of art galleries and local shops around Key West where you can enjoy shopping.

Grand Teton National Park has some good spots for those that want to go shopping. There are park stores where you can pick up souvenirs or gifts.

Is Key West or Grand Teton National Park Better for Families?

Key West
Grand Teton National Park

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Key West or Grand Teton National Park.

Key West is a very kid-friendly town. Families that enjoy snorkeling, aquariums, water sports, and exploring new places will enjoy visiting this part of the Florida Keys. There are many ways to get out on the water from kayaking and snorkeling to glass bottom boat tours and sunset cruises. There are also many kid-friendly beaches in the area. The town can have a party atmosphere, but it's not hard to find a more family-friendly area where everyone can have fun.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Grand Teton National Park. Kids will enjoy the hiking and wildlife spotting. There's also horseback riding and Ranger Programs that are designed for all ages.


Is Key West or Grand Teton National Park Better for Couples?

Key West
Grand Teton National Park

Grand Teton National Park is renowned for its romantic activities. Also, Key West is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for couples.

Grand Teton National Park makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. With its stunning mountain views and scenic hikes, couples will be surrounded by romance. Many people visit the park for their honeymoon, or even for the wedding itself, and the setting couldn't be more spectacular.

Key West makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. From Mallory Square to the beautiful nearby parks, Key West makes a wonderful, romantic destination. Whether it's your honeymoon, an anniversary, or simply a couples' retreat, Key West is a great option. You can sip wine on a sunset cruise or dine at one of the many character-filled restaurants in town. If you are looking for a party, it's not hard to find, but if you want a more laid back holiday, that's also possible.

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

Key West
Grand Teton National Park

Grand Teton National Park is renowned for backpackers. However, Key West is a mediocre town for backpackers and budget travelers.

Backpackers and budget travelers come from all over the world to visit Grand Teton National Park. There are hostels, campgrounds, and backcountry hiking and camping that backpackers really enjoy.

Key West is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. Key West is a pretty expensive destination, but there are Airbnbs and even a hostel or two that cater to budget backpackers.

Is Key West or Grand Teton National Park Better for Students?

Key West
Grand Teton National Park

Key West is a great town for its student-friendly activities. However, Grand Teton National Park is not popular with students.

Key West is a very popular town for students and younger travelers. It's a great spring break destination with a quirky personality and many great activities.

Grand Teton National Park is not popular with students.


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

Key West
Grand Teton National Park

Neither Key West or Grand Teton National Park offer decent public transit.

Public transit is limited or non-existant in Key West. Public transportation in Key West is limited to a few buses.

Public transit is quite limited in Grand Teton National Park. There's no public transportation within the park.

Is Key West or Grand Teton National Park a more walkable city?

Key West
Grand Teton National Park

Key West is a popular place for its walkability. However, Grand Teton National Park is not known for its high level of walkability.

Key West is somewhat walkable. The town is the most walkable part of the Florida Keys. The area around Mallory Square and Duval Street is the most pedestrian friendly.

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

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

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

How long in Key West or Grand Teton National Park?

Both Key West and Grand Teton National Park have a number of activities to choose from. In our opinion, Key West has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Key West than Grand Teton National Park. In general, 5-7 days is a good amount of time for Key West, and 3-7 days is enough time in Grand Teton National Park.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Key West than Grand Teton 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 Key West.


  • How many days in Key West or Grand Teton National Park? Ideal Length of Stay
    Key West 5-7 
    Grand Teton National Park 3-7

One day in Key West or Grand Teton National Park?

Visitors enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and nightlife when visiting the active town of Key West. People enjoy 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. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

The beautiful park of Grand Teton National Park offers . Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.


A weekend in Key West or Grand Teton National Park?

Visitors enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the quaint destination of Key West. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. Anyone can find something fun to do here. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

Grand Teton National Park is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Key West or Grand Teton National Park?

Key West is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have five days, this town makes for a great vacation. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. Because of this, five days is usually enough time for a trip here. It offers something for everyone.

Grand Teton National Park is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. It's no surprise that hiking is why people visit. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Grand Teton National Park, five days is sufficent for most. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A week in Key West or Grand Teton National Park?

Key West is a popular choice for travelers. One week here is typical. One week is usually enough time to experience most activities. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Grand Teton National Park is a great place to explore. It's no surprise that hiking is why people visit. It is common to spend one week here. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One week is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Grand Teton National Park has to offer. This park offers something for everyone.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Los Angeles, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from New York City, The Best 2-Week Tours from New York City, and The Best 2-Week Tours from Anchorage.


Which place is cheaper, Grand Teton National Park or Key West?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Key West is $551, while the average daily cost in Grand Teton National Park is $162. 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 Key West and Grand Teton National Park in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Key West $132
    Grand Teton National Park $79
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Key West $264
    Grand Teton National Park $158
Compare Hotels in Key West and Grand Teton National Park

Looking for a hotel in Key West or Grand Teton National Park? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Key West


Hotels in Grand Teton National Park


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Key West Hotel Prices and Grand Teton National Park Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Key West $51
    Grand Teton National Park $52
Typical Local Transportation Prices in Key West

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for transportation costs in Key West:


  • Rental Car for One Day
    $38

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Key West

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Key West:

  • Private Arrival Transfer from Key West Airport EYW: $144
  • Key West Airport (EYW) to Key West - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $129
  • Key West Int Airport (EYW) to Key West hotels Round-Trip Transfer: $129
  • Marathon/ Key Largo to Fort Lauderdale Airport(FLL) - Departure Private Transfer: $109
  • Key West Int Airport (EYW) to Key West - Arrival Private Transfer: $64
  • Key West to Key West Airport (EYW) - Departure Private Transfer: $64
  • Key West hotels to Key West Int Airport (EYW) Departure Transfer: $64
  • Private Transfer from Key West Int Airport to Key West Port: $38
  • Private Transfer from Key West Cruise Port to Key West hotels: $38

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Grand Teton National Park

Also for Grand Teton National Park, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Private SUV Transfers to/ from Jackson Hole Airport JAC: $105
  • Private Luxury 4wd SUV To/From Transfer Jackson Hole Airport: $140

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

Prices for flights to both Grand Teton National Park and Key West 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
    Key West $385
    Grand Teton National Park $46

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Key West

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

  • Sunset Dinner Cruise with Open Bar & Live Music: $81
  • Key West Sunset Cruise: Dinner and Drinks Included: $93
  • Southernmost Food & Cultural Walking Tour by Key West Food Tours: $93
  • Historic Seaport Food & Walking Tour by Key West Food Tours: $93
  • Old Town Secret Food Tour: $107
  • Sunset Sail Full Bar, Live Music & Dinner & Early Morning Snorkeling: $160
  • Snorkeling, Sunset Dinner Cruise & Open Bar: $200

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Grand Teton National Park

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

  • Jackson Hole Chuckwagon Dinner: $75
  • Dinner Cookout Ride at Heart Six Ranch: $145

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Key West $33
    Grand Teton National Park $43

Tours and Activities in Key West

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

  • Key West Kayak Eco Tour | An Eco-Friendly Adventure Awaits!: $56
  • Private E-Pedicab 1 Hour Sightseeing Ride of Old Town Key West: $100
  • Southernmost Ghosts Tour: $33
  • 2-Hour Live Music Guided Tour in Key West: $35
  • A Self-Guided Tour of Key West's Legends and Sights: $24
  • Adults only Sunset Cruise from Key West with Champagne: $81
  • Bahama Village Walking Tour: $30
  • Best of Key West Walking Tour with Glass Bottom Boat Cruise: $229
  • Best of Key West with Glass Bottom Boat Cruise: $294
  • Champagne Sunset Catamaran Cruise in Key West with Cocktails!: $60
  • Cruise Through Key West's Black History Audio Tour: $11
  • Dark Corners of Key West – Walking Tour: $352

Tours and Activities in Grand Teton National Park

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

  • Snake River Scenic Float Private Guided Tour: $225

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Key West $16
    Grand Teton National Park $19

Sample the Local Flavors in Key West

Also in Key West, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • Haunted Pub Crawl Walking Tour: $30
  • Key West Haunted Pub Crawl and Ghost Tour with Free T-Shirt: $32
  • Bone Island Haunted Pub Crawl: $32
  • 2.5-Hour Duval Street Pub Crawl: $43


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

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