A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Moab vs. Grand Teton National Park for Hiking, Couples, Backpackers, and Families

Should you visit Moab or Grand Teton National Park?

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

Should I visit Moab 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.

Moab

Moab is a adventurous, active, and scenic town. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. Other reasons to visit include food, hiking, and shopping.

Grand Teton National Park

Grand Teton National Park is a impressive, vast, and spectacular park. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. Other reasons to visit include hiking.

Moab and Grand Teton National Park: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to Delicate Arch in Arches National Park
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • Less popular for nightlife
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 nightlife


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

Tourists will generally find more to do in Moab. Although Moab and Grand Teton National Park are both popular with visitors, Moab has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Moab is more popular for its food and shopping, while Grand Teton National Park is known for its resorts. Moab is more touristy than Grand Teton National Park and is known for its desert landscapes and the iconic arches found at Arches National Park. It is also home to Delicate Arch in Arches National Park. Grand Teton National Park is popular for its grand peaks and diverse wildlife.

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

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

Moab
Grand Teton National Park

Spend time exploring the decent sights and museums in either Moab or Grand Teton National Park.

While most people don't head to Moab specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. There are a couple of museums in the area that will teach you about the geology and history. You can pop in the Moab Museum or the Film Museum at Red Cliffs Ranch, as well as the galleries around town.

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 Moab or Grand Teton National Park? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Moab
Grand Teton National Park

Moab 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 Moab. The town has grown over the years and now you'll find a diverse selection of restaurants that serve decent food. There are steakhouses, pizzerias, and even a couple ice cream shops.

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 Moab or Grand Teton National Park Better for Nightlife?

Moab
Grand Teton National Park

The vibe at night is decent in both Moab and Grand Teton National Park.

Moab doesn't have the most active nightlife scene. The town has grown significantly and you'll find bars, taverns, and breweries where you can hang out in the evening, but it's still a quiet place with a laid back atmosphere.

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 Moab or Grand Teton National Park Better for Resorts?

Moab
Grand Teton National Park

Grand Teton National Park is great for its luxury resorts. However, Moab 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.

Moab is not a resort destination.


Is Moab or Grand Teton National Park Better for Hiking?

Moab
Grand Teton National Park

If you're looking to go hiking, Moab and Grand Teton National Park both have first-rate trails.

People visit Moab specifically for its hiking, as the natural beauty is well-known. The area is filled with hiking trails, both inside the nearby national parks as well as outside. Canyonlands National Park is large with impressive overlooks, while Arches National Park has fun hikes that take you by diverse arches and include many opportunities for scrambling. Outside of the park, hikers can visit Corona Arch or search for dinosaur footprints at Dinosaur Tracks Trail.

Many people visit Grand Teton National Park specifically for its hiking. 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.

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

Moab
Grand Teton National Park

Moab 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 Moab. There are gift shops, places to buy outdoor equipment, and convenient stores around town. There are also a number of art galleries that sell local items or impressive photography.

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 Moab or Grand Teton National Park Better for Families?

Moab
Grand Teton National Park

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

Moab is a very family-friendly destination. It's a world of outdoor adventures. You'll find river rafting, mountain biking, rock climbing, and many kid-friendly trails. There's also the Tracks Museum, where kids can learn about dinosaurs as well as swimming pools or swimming holes in the area.

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


Is Moab or Grand Teton National Park Better for Couples?

Moab
Grand Teton National Park

Grand Teton National Park is very popular for romance. Also, Moab is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its romantic activities.

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.

Moab is a very popular place to visit for couples. The area is filled with adventurous fun, with everything from world-class hikes to impressive rafting trips. The dramatic landscape provides the backdrop for a truly spectacular trip.

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

Moab
Grand Teton National Park

Grand Teton National Park is very popular for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Moab is not as popular, but is still a nice town for backpackers.

Many backpackers frequent Grand Teton National Park. There are hostels, campgrounds, and backcountry hiking and camping that backpackers really enjoy.

Moab is a great town to visit for backpackers. The town has many campgrounds and even a few hostels. Arches National Park has only a few backcountry overnight camping sites. Terrain is rough and most areas aren't accessible by trail.

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

Moab
Grand Teton National Park

Neither Moab or Grand Teton National Park offer decent public transit.

Public transit is quite limited in Moab. There are efforts to create a transportation program within town, but there are limited transportation options available. If you book a tour, they usually provide transportation.

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


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

Moab
Grand Teton National Park

Moab and Grand Teton National Park are decent when it comes to walkability.

Moab is generally not a very walkable town. While it's possible to walk around within the town, most visitors don't come to visit they town, they come to explore the area. You'll need a car to access most points of interest in the area.

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

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

How long in Moab or Grand Teton National Park?

Both Moab 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 Moab. Usually, 2-5 days is a good amount of time for Moab, and 3-7 days is enough time in Grand Teton National Park.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Grand Teton National Park than Moab 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 Grand Teton National Park.


  • How many days in Moab or Grand Teton National Park? Ideal Length of Stay
    Moab 2-5 
    Grand Teton National Park 3-7

One day in Moab or Grand Teton National Park?

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the scenic town of Moab. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. 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.

Visitors enjoy the when visiting the destination of Grand Teton National Park. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

A weekend in Moab or Grand Teton National Park?

Visitors enjoy the shopping and food when visiting the destination of Moab. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. Anyone can find something fun to do here. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend. Most people visit for the hiking. Because of this, a weekend is usually enough time for a trip here.

Grand Teton National Park is a fun place to experience. Most people visit for the hiking. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.


Five days in Moab or Grand Teton National Park?

Moab 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. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Because of this, five days is usually enough time for a trip here. It offers something for everyone.

Visitors enjoy the when visiting the vast destination of Grand Teton National Park. This park offers something for everyone. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. Plenty of people spend five days in the area when traveling. Five days is often enough time to do most activities.

A week in Moab or Grand Teton National Park?

Moab is a popular choice for travelers. Most people visit for the hiking. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Visitors enjoy the when visiting the impressive park of Grand Teton National Park. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. Many people spend one week here. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Because of this, one week is usually enough time for a trip here.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Cultural Tours in United States of America, The Best Photography Tours in United States of America, The Best Camping Tours in United States of America, and The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in United States of America.


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

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Moab is $388, 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 Moab and Grand Teton National Park in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Moab $336
    Grand Teton National Park $79
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Moab $672
    Grand Teton National Park $158
Compare Hotels in Moab and Grand Teton National Park

Looking for a hotel in Moab 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 Moab


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

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Moab $17
    Grand Teton National Park $52

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

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

Prices for flights to both Grand Teton National Park and Moab 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
    Moab $37
    Grand Teton National Park $46
Typical Food Prices in Moab

Here are some examples of typical meal expenses from previous travelers to Moab:


  • Moab Brewery
    $42
  • Breakfast for Two
    $17

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Moab

For Moab, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Colorado River Dinner Cruise with Music and Light Show: $99
  • Colorado River Sunset Boat Tour with Optional Dinner: $109

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:

  • Dinner Cookout Ride at Heart Six Ranch: $145

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Moab $3.13
    Grand Teton National Park $43
Typical Entertainment Prices in Moab

For Moab, here are some examples of average entertainment and activity prices from previous travelers:


  • Slickrock Trail Pass
    $5.00

Tours and Activities in Moab

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

  • 2 Hours Guided UTV Tour in Moab Utah: $129
  • 2 hour Moab Ebike Petroglyph Tour: $107
  • 25+ National Parks Self-Guided Driving Tours Bundle: $85
  • 3-Hours Sunset Arches National Park Pavement Sights Tour: $191
  • Afternoon Arches National Park 4x4 Tour: $185
  • Afternoon Canyonlands Island In The Sky 4X4 Tour: $185
  • Afternoon Half Day Moab Jeep Tour: $152
  • Arches Full Day Small Group Tour : $299
  • Arches National Park 4x4 Adventure from Moab: $197
  • Arches National Park Airplane Tour: $189
  • Arches National Park Back Country Adventure from Moab: $142
  • Arches National Park Backcountry Tour: $252

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
    Moab $66
    Grand Teton National Park $19


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