A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Mazatlan vs. Grand Teton National Park for Couples, Backpackers, Attractions, and Food

Should you visit Mazatlan or Grand Teton National Park?

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

Should I visit Mazatlan 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.

Mazatlan

Mazatlan is a historical, cultural, and authentic city. Other reasons to visit include beaches, shopping, and museums.

Grand Teton National Park

Grand Teton National Park is a vast, spectacular, and impressive park. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. And you can't forget about the hiking.

Mazatlan and Grand Teton National Park: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Good scuba and snorkeling destination
  • Popular beach
  • Scenic old town
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good public transit
  • Very walkable
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with couples
Pros
  • Nice resorts
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • Less popular for food
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Public transit not as usable
  • Less walkable


Is there more to do in Mazatlan or Grand Teton National Park?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Mazatlan. Although Mazatlan and Grand Teton National Park are popular destinations, Mazatlan has more sights and attractions for tourists. Mazatlan is very popular for its museums, food, nightlife, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, historical sights, and shopping, while Grand Teton National Park attracts visitors for its resorts, hiking, and impressive beauty. Grand Teton National Park is more touristy than Mazatlan and is popular for its grand peaks and diverse wildlife. Mazatlan is famous for its historic center, authenticity, and surfing areas. It is also well known for the Malecon.

How is Mazatlan 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 Mazatlan. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

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

Mazatlan
Grand Teton National Park

Mazatlan is a great city for its historical sights. However, Grand Teton National Park is not known for its sights and museums.

Mazatlan offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. There are colonial buildings around the Centro Historico. You should also check out the Historic Cathedral and the Angela Peralta Theater.

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


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

Mazatlan
Grand Teton National Park

Mazatlan is a great city for its local flavors and cuisine. However, Grand Teton National Park is not known for its local cuisine and restaurants.

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in Mazatlan. Stewed meats and shrimp are a big part of the cuisine here. Many recipes have a little bit of spice. The restaurants around town are authentic and local, making for a great dining experience.

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 Mazatlan or Grand Teton National Park Better for Nightlife?

Mazatlan
Grand Teton National Park

Mazatlan is a popular place for nightlife. However, Grand Teton National Park is not known for nightlife and partying.

If you're looking for night time activities Mazatlan has a few options to choose from. There are plenty of bars and clubs around town, particularly along the beach. Like anywhere else, remember to stay cautious late at night around town. This is considered to be one of the less safe parts of Mexico.

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 Mazatlan or Grand Teton National Park Better for Resorts?

Mazatlan
Grand Teton National Park

Grand Teton National Park is well known for its resorts. However, Mazatlan is not a resort destination.

Grand Teton National Park is known as a popular and fun resort destination. There are several impressive lodges within the park, as well as cabins and more rustic hotels.

Mazatlan is not a resort destination.


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

Mazatlan
Grand Teton National Park

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

Mazatlan has a few good snorkeling spots. Most of the diving takes place around the Pajaros, Venados and Lobos islands. This is where you'll see the most tropical fish.

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

Is Mazatlan or Grand Teton National Park Better for Beaches?

Mazatlan
Grand Teton National Park

Mazatlan is a great city for its beaches. However, Grand Teton National Park is not a beach destination.

Mazatlan is considered a top beach destination. There are many stretches of beach around town. Most notable is the 13 miles that run along Malecon where there's a boardwalk. Surfing is also popular in the area.

Grand Teton National Park is not a beach destination.

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

Mazatlan
Grand Teton National Park

Mazatlan is a great city 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 Mazatlan. It's a historic port city with a charming colonial old town.

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


Is Mazatlan or Grand Teton National Park Better for Hiking?

Mazatlan
Grand Teton National Park

Grand Teton National Park is a world-class destination for its hiking experiences. However, Mazatlan 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.

Mazatlan is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Mazatlan or Grand Teton National Park?

Mazatlan
Grand Teton National Park

Mazatlan is a popular place for shopping. However, Grand Teton National Park is not known for its shopping opportunities.

Plenty of visitors enjoy shopping while in Mazatlan. There are local shops, big box stores, and souvenir vendors where you can pick up anything you may need or items to commemorate your trip.

If you're looking to go shopping, Grand Teton National Park has some nice offerings. There are park stores where you can pick up souvenirs or gifts.

Is Mazatlan or Grand Teton National Park Better for Families?

Mazatlan
Grand Teton National Park

Grand Teton National Park is well known for its family-friendly activities. Also, Mazatlan is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

Grand Teton National Park is a very kid-friendly park. Kids will enjoy the hiking and wildlife spotting. There's also horseback riding and Ranger Programs that are designed for all ages.

Mazatlan offers lots of family activities. Kids will enjoy the all-inclusive resorts and the waterfront setting. There are also many cultural opportunities such as markets, history, and shows. The food is very kid-friendly as well.


Is Mazatlan or Grand Teton National Park Better for Couples?

Mazatlan
Grand Teton National Park

Grand Teton National Park is a world-class destination for its romantic activities. Also, Mazatlan is still popular, but not quite as popular 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.

Mazatlan is a good city for couples to visit. The resorts are romantic and the beaches are stunning. If you're looking for an idyllic escape that also has culture, authenticity, and great food, then this is your spot.

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

Mazatlan
Grand Teton National Park

Grand Teton National Park is a world-class destination for backpackers. Also, Mazatlan is still popular, but not quite as popular 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.

Plenty of budget travelers and backpackers visit Mazatlan. The laid back atmosphere makes this a great stopover for backpackers who want to experience the Mexican culture. Stick to the touristy areas if possible.

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

Mazatlan
Grand Teton National Park

Mazatlan is a popular place for times when you don't have a car. However, Grand Teton National Park is not known for its public transit.

While Mazatlan offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There are city buses around town.

Public transit is limited or non-existant in Grand Teton National Park. There's no public transportation within the park.


Is Mazatlan or Grand Teton National Park a more walkable city?

Mazatlan
Grand Teton National Park

Mazatlan is a great city for its walkability. However, Grand Teton National Park is not known for its high level of walkability.

Mazatlan is very walkable. The city is relatively walkable.

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 Mazatlan Worth Visiting? and Is Grand Teton National Park Worth Visiting?.

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

How long in Mazatlan or Grand Teton National Park?

Both Mazatlan and Grand Teton National Park have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Grand Teton National Park than in Mazatlan. Usually, 3-5 days is a good amount of time for Mazatlan, and 3-7 days is enough time in Grand Teton National Park.

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

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

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


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

One day in Mazatlan or Grand Teton National Park?

Visitors enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling when visiting the authentic city of Mazatlan. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. 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 Mazatlan or Grand Teton National Park?

Visitors enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping when visiting the destination of Mazatlan. 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 Mazatlan or Grand Teton National Park?

Mazatlan is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have five days, this city makes for a great vacation. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. 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 Mazatlan or Grand Teton National Park?

Mazatlan is a popular choice for travelers. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare. 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 Food and Culinary Tours in Mexico, The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Mexico, The Best Polar Tours & Cruises in United States of America, and The Best Walking Tours in United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Grand Teton National Park or Mazatlan?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Mazatlan is $79, 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 Mazatlan and Grand Teton National Park in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Mazatlan $33
    Grand Teton National Park $79
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Mazatlan $66
    Grand Teton National Park $158
Compare Hotels in Mazatlan and Grand Teton National Park

Looking for a hotel in Mazatlan 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 Mazatlan


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: Mazatlan Hotel Prices and Grand Teton National Park Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Mazatlan $21
    Grand Teton National Park $52

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Mazatlan

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Mazatlan:

  • Mazatlan Intl Airport (MZT): Private Transfer to Mazatlan: $296
  • Private roundtrip airport to hotel transfer in Mazatlan: $261
  • Mazatlan Cruise Port: Private Transfer to Mazatlan hotels: $236
  • Private Airport-Hotel Transfer: $119
  • Mazatlan Airport (MZT) to Mazatlan Round-Trip Private Transfer: $117
  • Round transfer airport to hotel in Mazatlán: $49

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 Mazatlan or Grand Teton National Park?

Prices for flights to both Grand Teton National Park and Mazatlan 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
    Mazatlan $34
    Grand Teton National Park $46

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Mazatlan

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

  • Mercado walking food tour: $78
  • Mazatlan routes of taste food tour: $84
  • Authentic Mexican Cooking Class in Mazatlan: $84
  • Tacos, Beer and Mezcal Food Tour in Mazatlan: $96

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.
    Mazatlan $9.59
    Grand Teton National Park $43

Tours and Activities in Mazatlan

Here are a few actual costs in Mazatlan for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • Barrio Bites tour: $78
  • Beach Activities and All Inclusive Tour: $58
  • BeachBlast ATV's & City Tour: $99
  • Bird Watching Mazatlán - Birding Tour: $115
  • City Tour with Tequila Tasting & Beach Hotel Day Pass Included : $49
  • From Zipline & ATV Adventure with Tequila Tasting: $210
  • Half-Day Tour to Tequila Factory and Villages from Mazatlan: $75
  • Half-Day Ziplining Experience from Mazatlán: $110
  • Jungle and beach ATV tour + lunch + tequila tasting: $120
  • Mazatlán: Beach & Jungle ATV Tour w/ Lunch & Tequila Tasting: $126
  • Mazatlán: Tequila Factory & Country Sightseeing: $103
  • Mazatlán: Zipline Adventure, Sightseeing & Mezcal Tasting: $128

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
    Mazatlan $18
    Grand Teton National Park $19


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

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