A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Martha's Vineyard vs. Grand Canyon National Park for Resorts, Couples, Food, and Hiking

Should you visit Martha's Vineyard or Grand Canyon National Park?

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 Martha's Vineyard and Grand Canyon National Park. 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.

Martha's Vineyard

Martha's Vineyard is a peaceful, affluent, and coastal island. It offers plenty of small town charm along with sights and activities, too. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Other reasons to visit include beaches, hiking, and shopping.

Grand Canyon National Park

Grand Canyon National Park is a stunning, world-renowned, and gorgeous national park. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. It's also popular because of the hiking.

Martha's Vineyard and Grand Canyon National Park: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Nice resorts
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Small town charm
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with backpackers
Pros
  • Good for hiking
  • 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
  • Not as many resort options


Is there more to do in Martha's Vineyard or Grand Canyon National Park?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Martha's Vineyard than Grand Canyon National Park, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Martha's Vineyard is better known for its museums, food, nightlife, resorts, beaches, shopping, and small town charm, while Grand Canyon National Park is more popular for its hiking and impressive beauty. Grand Canyon National Park is more touristy than Martha's Vineyard and is known for its iconic beauty, layers of color, breathtaking sunsets, and world-renowned geological history. Martha's Vineyard is well known for its natural beauty, charming New England towns, and upscale local shopping. Also, Martha's Vineyard is famous for the Aquinnah Cliffs.

How is Martha's Vineyard different from Grand Canyon National Park?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Martha's Vineyard or Grand Canyon National Park?

Martha's Vineyard
Grand Canyon National Park

Martha's Vineyard is a decent place to visit for its museums and history. However, Grand Canyon National Park does not have museums and landmarks.

While most people don't head to Martha's Vineyard specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. There are a couple of local museums in the area as well as the Martha's Vineyard Museum.

Grand Canyon National Park does not have museums and landmarks.


Is the Food Better in Martha's Vineyard or Grand Canyon National Park? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Martha's Vineyard
Grand Canyon National Park

Martha's Vineyard 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 Martha's Vineyard. The region prioritizes sustainable agriculture and there are many local eateries that range from upscale to more casual. You'll find the greatest number of options during the peak summer months, but regardless of when you visit, you're sure to eat well.

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 Martha's Vineyard or Grand Canyon National Park Better for Nightlife?

Martha's Vineyard
Grand Canyon National Park

Martha's Vineyard is a decent place to visit for nightlife. However, Grand Canyon National Park is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Those looking for nightlife will find a few places to hang out in Martha's Vineyard. There's more of a laid back vibe, but the best towns in the evening are Edgartown and Oak Bluffs.

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

Is Martha's Vineyard or Grand Canyon National Park Better for Resorts?

Martha's Vineyard
Grand Canyon National Park

Martha's Vineyard is renowned for its luxury resorts. Also, Grand Canyon National Park is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its resorts.

Vacationers flock to Martha's Vineyard for its luxury resorts. There are beautiful and luxurious resorts that attract celebrities and socialites. Many have pools and serene outdoor spaces that you can enjoy.

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 Martha's Vineyard or Grand Canyon National Park Better for Beaches?

Martha's Vineyard
Grand Canyon National Park

Martha's Vineyard is a very popular place for its beaches. However, Grand Canyon National Park is not a beach destination.

Many people visit Martha's Vineyard for it's beautiful beaches. The beaches are scenic and peaceful. Head to northern side of the island for shallow water, or south for more surf. While there are some public beaches that are open to everyone, there are also beaches that require a parking or town beach permit to visit.

Grand Canyon National Park is not a beach destination.

Is Martha's Vineyard or Grand Canyon National Park Better for Hiking?

Martha's Vineyard
Grand Canyon National Park

Grand Canyon National Park is a great national park for hiking. Also, Martha's Vineyard is not as popular, but is still a nice island for the nearby hiking options.

Many visitors go to Grand Canyon National Park for the hiking trails. 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.

Martha's Vineyard is a good destination for hiking. There are miles of trails around the island that pass through fields or along the coastline. The island is mostly flat, so the hikes are relatively easy for all skill levels.

Is the Shopping Better in Martha's Vineyard or Grand Canyon National Park?

Martha's Vineyard
Grand Canyon National Park

Martha's Vineyard is a very popular place for shopping. However, Grand Canyon National Park is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Martha's Vineyard. There are no malls, so you'll enjoy shopping at local stores that sell a mix of locally made items and name brand. There are many art galleries as well as craft festivals during the summer months.

Grand Canyon National Park is not a noteworthy shopping destination.


Is Martha's Vineyard or Grand Canyon National Park Better for Families?

Martha's Vineyard
Grand Canyon National Park

Both Martha's Vineyard and Grand Canyon National Park are notable family-friendly destinations.

Martha's Vineyard offers lots of family activities. You can visit local farms or go to a local baseball game. There's also cafes, ice cream shops, and donut shops that kids will enjoy.

Grand Canyon National Park is a family-friendly place to visit. 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 Martha's Vineyard or Grand Canyon National Park Better for Couples?

Martha's Vineyard
Grand Canyon National Park

Martha's Vineyard and Grand Canyon National Park both terrific destinations for a couple.

Martha's Vineyard is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. It's filled with charming bed and breakfasts and plenty of New England charm. Couples will enjoy the quaint restaurants and mix of history, small town charm, and outdoor adventure.

Grand Canyon National Park makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. 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!).

Is Martha's Vineyard or Grand Canyon National Park Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Martha's Vineyard
Grand Canyon National Park

Grand Canyon National Park is an amazing national park to visit for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Martha's Vineyard is not known 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.

Martha's Vineyard is not the best destination for backpackers and budget travelers due to its high prices. Budget options are limited, making this an inconvenient destination for backpackers.


Is Martha's Vineyard or Grand Canyon National Park Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Martha's Vineyard
Grand Canyon National Park

Martha's Vineyard and Grand Canyon National Park both offer respectable public transit to get you around.

Public transit is mostly limited in Martha's Vineyard. Access to the island is limited to boat and air. There's a bus service that connects the towns.

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 Martha's Vineyard or Grand Canyon National Park a more walkable city?

Martha's Vineyard
Grand Canyon National Park

Martha's Vineyard and Grand Canyon National Park are notable when it comes to walkability.

Martha's Vineyard is a somewhat walkable island. Many of the towns have walkable downtown areas, but traveling between towns and into the countryside requires a vehicle.

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.

For even more information, also check out Is Martha's Vineyard Worth Visiting? and Is Grand Canyon National Park Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Grand Canyon National Park or Martha's Vineyard?

How long in Martha's Vineyard or Grand Canyon National Park?

It's fun to spend time in either Martha's Vineyard or Grand Canyon National Park. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Grand Canyon National Park due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Martha's Vineyard, and 1-4 days is enough time in Grand Canyon National Park.

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

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


  • How many days in Martha's Vineyard or Grand Canyon National Park? Ideal Length of Stay
    Martha's Vineyard 1-3 
    Grand Canyon National Park 1-4

One day in Martha's Vineyard or Grand Canyon National Park?

Martha's Vineyard might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Most people come for the beaches. One day is usually enough time to experience most activities.

With around the destination of Grand Canyon National Park, there's plenty to do. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. One day is often enough time to do most activities. It offers something for everyone.


A weekend in Martha's Vineyard or Grand Canyon National Park?

Even though Martha's Vineyard is a small town, it has plenty of activities to choose from. It's also a relaxing resort destination. 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.

With around the gorgeous national park of Grand Canyon National Park, there's plenty to do. Your budget might influence how long you stay. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here.

Five days in Martha's Vineyard or Grand Canyon National Park?

Since Martha's Vineyard is a small town, it's easily explored when your time is limited. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. This island offers something for everyone.

Travelers enjoy the when visiting the gorgeous destination of Grand Canyon National Park. Hikers are also drawn to this area. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days.

A week in Martha's Vineyard or Grand Canyon National Park?

Martha's Vineyard is a small town, so it's a great destination if you're short on time. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. It's also a great beach destination, too. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

Grand Canyon National Park is a popular choice for travelers. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. This national park offers a variety of activities to choose from. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in United States of America, The Best 2-Week Tours in United States of America, The Best 3-Week Tours in United States of America, and The Best Bicycle Tours in United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Grand Canyon National Park or Martha's Vineyard?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Martha's Vineyard is $241, while the average daily cost in Grand Canyon National Park is $168. 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 Martha's Vineyard and Grand Canyon National Park in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Martha's Vineyard $132
    Grand Canyon National Park $89
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Martha's Vineyard $264
    Grand Canyon National Park $178
Compare Hotels in Martha's Vineyard and Grand Canyon National Park

Looking for a hotel in Martha's Vineyard or Grand Canyon 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 Marthas Vineyard


Hotels in Grand Canyon 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: Martha's Vineyard Hotel Prices and Grand Canyon National Park Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Martha's Vineyard $83
    Grand Canyon National Park $43

Is it cheaper to fly into Martha's Vineyard or Grand Canyon National Park?

Prices for flights to both Grand Canyon National Park and Martha's Vineyard 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
    Martha's Vineyard $60
    Grand Canyon National Park $49

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Martha's Vineyard $30
    Grand Canyon National Park $35

Tours and Activities in Martha's Vineyard

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Martha's Vineyard.

  • 3-Hour Martha's Vineyard Island Tour from Oak Bluffs: $65
  • All Island Bus Tour: $65
  • Martha's Vinyard Driving & Walking GPS-Guided Audio Tour: $15
  • Martha’s Vineyard Self-Guided (APP/GPS) Audio Walking Tour: $7.75
  • Oak Bluffs, Martha's Vineyard Audio Tour: $13

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
  • 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
  • Grand Canyon South & East Rim Self-Driving, Walking & Shuttling Tour: $17

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Martha's Vineyard $22
    Grand Canyon National Park $11


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