A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America New York City vs. Grand Teton National Park for Attractions, Food, Nightlife, and Couples

Should you visit New York City or Grand Teton 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 New York City and Grand Teton 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.

New York City

New York City is a energetic, cosmopolitan, and one-of-a-kind city. It's an amazing and huge city with tons of activities and things to do. It's a gorgeous place to visit. Other reasons to visit include shopping, museums, and theater.

Grand Teton National Park

Grand Teton National Park is a impressive, vast, and spectacular park. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. Other reasons to visit include hiking.

New York City and Grand Teton National Park: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Numerous theater shows
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Fun shopping
  • Popular at Christmas
  • Known for Christmas markets
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Good public transit
  • Very walkable
  • Big city activities
  • Home to the Statue of Liberty
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
  • Less popular for shopping
  • Public transit not as usable
  • Less walkable


Is there more to do in New York City or Grand Teton National Park?

Tourists will generally find more to do in New York City. Although New York City and Grand Teton National Park are both popular with visitors, New York City has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. New York City is more popular for its museums, theatre productions, food, nightlife, music, shopping, christmas markets, and big city activities, while Grand Teton National Park is known for its resorts, hiking, and impressive beauty. New York City is more touristy than Grand Teton National Park and is known for its high-reaching skyscrapers, iconic landmarks, world-class theater scene, and endless energy. It is also home to The Statue of Liberty. Grand Teton National Park is popular for its grand peaks and diverse wildlife.

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in New York City or Grand Teton National Park?

New York City
Grand Teton National Park

New York City is a must-visit destination for its historical sights. However, Grand Teton National Park is not known for its sights and museums.

Travelers visit New York City from around the world to see its many world-famous attractions. The sights and museums around the city are too numerous to list, but some of the most famous include the Statue of Liberty, the Metropolitan Museum of Art, the Museum of Modern Art, Central Park, and the Empire State Building. This is a city that is filled with iconic landmarks and you could spend weeks here and still not see it all.

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


Is New York City or Grand Teton National Park Better for Theater?

New York City
Grand Teton National Park

New York City is a must-visit destination for theatre. However, Grand Teton National Park is not a theatre destination.

The theater and performance venues in New York City draw crowds from around the world. Visiting Broadway is a quintessential NYC experience. Whether you enjoy the theater or simply want to experience something new, seeing a Broadway show is a true bucket list activity.

Grand Teton National Park is not a theatre destination.

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

New York City
Grand Teton National Park

New York City is a must-visit destination for its local flavors and cuisine. However, Grand Teton National Park is not known for its local cuisine and restaurants.

For foodies, New York City is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. The city has a diverse variety of restaurants, with everything from local dives to Michelin star options. There are many neighborhoods that are notable for their ethnic cuisine, particularly Little Italy and Chinatown. Quintessential NYC dishes include NYC pizza, NYC hot dogs, bagels, and Chinese dim sum.

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 New York City or Grand Teton National Park Better for Nightlife?

New York City
Grand Teton National Park

New York City is a must-visit destination for nightlife. However, Grand Teton National Park is not known for nightlife and partying.

New York City is a world class party destination. Known as the city that never sleeps, you can be assured that NYC has some of the best nightlife in the world. There are world class bars and clubs, but also local venues that have a more relaxed atmosphere. Several famous clubs include Paul's Cocktail Lounge, Le Bain, and Avant Gardner.

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 New York City or Grand Teton National Park Better for Music?

New York City
Grand Teton National Park

New York City is a must-visit destination for live music. However, Grand Teton National Park is not a live music destination.

New York City is known as a music capital around the world. Popular music venues include Music Hall of Williamsburg, Radio City Music Hall, Beacon Theatre, and Forest Hills Stadium.

Grand Teton National Park is not a live music destination.

Is New York City or Grand Teton National Park Better for Resorts?

New York City
Grand Teton National Park

Grand Teton National Park is an excellent place to visit for its luxury resorts. However, New York City is not a resort destination.

There are plenty of resorts in Grand Teton National Park to choose from. There are several impressive lodges within the park, as well as cabins and more rustic hotels.

New York City is not a resort destination.

Is New York City or Grand Teton National Park Better for Hiking?

New York City
Grand Teton National Park

Grand Teton National Park is a must-visit destination for its hiking trails. However, New York City is not a hiking destination.

Grand Teton National Park is well-known for its hiking and trekking. 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.

New York City is not a hiking destination.


Is the Shopping Better in New York City or Grand Teton National Park?

New York City
Grand Teton National Park

New York City is a must-visit destination for shopping. However, Grand Teton National Park is not known for its shopping opportunities.

People travel from around the world to go shopping in New York City. The shopping is as diverse as the city itself. Head for Fifth Avenue for high end shopping or check out any of the many street markets for local items. New York is known for its many flea markets where you can find vintage items at a good price. And if you're looking to pick up a souvenir shirt or knick knack, there are plenty of souvenir shops around town as well.

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 New York City or Grand Teton National Park Better for Christmas?

New York City
Grand Teton National Park

New York City is a must-visit destination for its Christmas holiday experiences. However, Grand Teton National Park does not offer Christmas activities.

People travel from all around to experience the Christmas season in New York City. Christmas in the city is a quintessential experience. From the Christmas tree and ice skating at Rockefeller Center to seeing a live performance of the Nutcracker, everyone enjoys the holidays in New York.

Grand Teton National Park does not offer Christmas activities.

Is New York City or Grand Teton National Park Better for Christmas Markets?

New York City
Grand Teton National Park

New York City is a great city for visiting Christmas markets. However, Grand Teton National Park does not offer Christmas markets.

Many people head to New York City to see its Christmas markets. There are a number of Christmas markets that pop up around town during the holiday season. Nothing will get you more in the holiday spirit than wandering these unique venues.

Grand Teton National Park does not offer Christmas markets.


Is New York City or Grand Teton National Park Better for Families?

New York City
Grand Teton National Park

Both New York City and Grand Teton National Park are superb family-friendly destinations.

New York City is a very family-friendly destination. The city has many activities for kids of all ages including world class museums, beautifully designed playgrounds, and theater shows designed just for young ones. There are many kid-friendly restaurants as well and older kids will enjoy visiting the iconic landmarks in this world-class city.

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

Is New York City or Grand Teton National Park Better for Couples?

New York City
Grand Teton National Park

New York City and Grand Teton National Park both amazing destinations for a couple.

New York City is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. From a beautiful carriage ride through Central Park, to a romantic river cruise at night, there is an endless list of unique activities that couples can enjoy in the city. Whether you're interested in theater, the arts, music, or nightlife, this city has it all.

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.

Is New York City or Grand Teton National Park Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

New York City
Grand Teton National Park

Grand Teton National Park is a must-visit destination for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, New York City is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for backpackers.

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

New York City is a great city to visit for backpackers. It isn't a particularly budget-friendly destination, but it does get its share of backpackers, so you'll find a nice list of hostels and affordable hangouts that are perfect for the backpacker crowd. This is probably one of the most popular cities for backpackers in the entire United States.


Is New York City or Grand Teton National Park Better for Students?

New York City
Grand Teton National Park

New York City is a must-visit destination for its student-friendly activities. However, Grand Teton National Park is not popular with students.

Many students frequent New York City. The city has a diverse population, and international students will feel right at home here exploring the city. There are also plenty of major universities including NYU, Columbia University, and Cornell University.

Grand Teton National Park is not popular with students.

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

New York City
Grand Teton National Park

New York City is a must-visit destination for times when you don't have a car. However, Grand Teton National Park is not known for its public transit.

New York City has a world-class public transit network to take passengers everywhere in the city. The city has one of the largest subway systems in the world. There's also an elaborate bus system, ferry system, and yellow taxis all around town.

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

Is New York City or Grand Teton National Park a more walkable city?

New York City
Grand Teton National Park

New York City is a must-visit destination for its walkability. However, Grand Teton National Park is not known for its high level of walkability.

New York City is a very easy city to get around on foot. The majority of the neighborhoods in Manhattan are very walkable and easy to explore on foot. Most people prefer not to drive here as it can be overwhelming and chaotic.

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 New York City Worth Visiting? and Is Grand Teton National Park Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Grand Teton National Park or New York City?

How long in New York City or Grand Teton National Park?

Both New York City and Grand Teton National Park have a number of activities to choose from. In our opinion, New York City has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in New York City than Grand Teton National Park. However, 3-7 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in New York City 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 New York City.


  • How many days in New York City or Grand Teton National Park? Ideal Length of Stay
    New York City 3-7 
    Grand Teton National Park 3-7

One day in New York City or Grand Teton National Park?

New York City is a vibrant city where you can fill many days. 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.

Many travelers enjoy the when visiting the impressive destination of Grand Teton National Park. It's also a relaxing resort destination. Don't miss the hiking, as that's what most people do. Your budget might influence how long you stay. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

A weekend in New York City or Grand Teton National Park?

New York City is a big city destination where you can fill many days. 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Grand Teton National Park. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. Don't miss the hiking, as that's what most people do. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

Five days in New York City or Grand Teton National Park?

New York City 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. Because of this, five days is usually enough time for a trip here. It offers something for everyone.

Many travelers enjoy the when visiting the impressive destination of Grand Teton National Park. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. This park offers a variety of activities to choose from. If you have five days, this is a great place to go. Five days is usually enough time to experience most activities.


A week in New York City or Grand Teton National Park?

New York City 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.

Many travelers enjoy the when visiting the beautiful park of Grand Teton National Park. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. Plenty of people spend one week in the area when traveling.So, one week is just the right amount of time to spend here. 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, Grand Teton National Park or New York City?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in New York City is $326, 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 New York City and Grand Teton National Park in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    New York City $175
    Grand Teton National Park $79
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    New York City $350
    Grand Teton National Park $158
Compare Hotels in New York City and Grand Teton National Park

Looking for a hotel in New York City 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 New York City


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: New York City Hotel Prices and Grand Teton National Park Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    New York City $49
    Grand Teton National Park $52
Typical Local Transportation Prices in New York City

Some typical examples of transportation costs in New York City are as follows:


  • Subway
    $4.50
  • Taxi Ride
    $8.00
  • Subway
    $2.50

Hired Cars and Shuttles in New York City

Also for New York City, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Private Transfer: between Manhattan and Philadelphia: $523
  • La Guardia Airport Private Limousine Transfer: $489
  • Skip-the-line Tickets to Bronx Zoo with Private Transfers: $410
  • JFK Airport To Manhattan Luxury SUV Transfer: $370
  • Empire State Building NYC Tour, Pre-booked Tickets, Transfer: $300
  • Private New York City Airport Departure Transfer : $299
  • Skip the line One World Observatory Private Tour with Transfers : $296
  • Skip-the-line One World Observatory Tour with Transfers: $296
  • Central Park Zoo Skip-the-line Tickets & Private Transfers: $291
  • Central Park Zoo Skip the line Tickets and Private Transfers : $291
  • Private arrival OR departure transfer in New York (hotel OR airport pick-up): $288
  • New York LaGuardia Airport (LGA) to New York - Round-Trip Private Transfer : $280

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 New York City or Grand Teton National Park?

Prices for flights to both Grand Teton National Park and New York City 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
    New York City $50
    Grand Teton National Park $46
Typical Food Prices in New York City

For New York City, here are some examples of average food and meal prices for travelers:


  • Gelato
    $7.50
  • Snacks for Two at Yankees Game
    $34
  • Coffee
    $6.53
  • Smoothie
    $6.95

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in New York City

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

  • New York, Queens Culinary Stroll : Food Tour on Foot: $26
  • Lower East Side and Essex Market Multicultural Food Tour: $39
  • Half-Day Private Pizza Crawl in Manhattan: $40
  • New York City Pizza Crawl: Best of Manhattan route: $41
  • Ultimate Greenwich Village NYC Food Tour: $63
  • NYC: Greenwich Village Guided Food Tour: $63
  • Pizza Walking Tour of Downtown Brooklyn: $65
  • West Village Pizza Walk: $65
  • Greenwich Village NYC Pizza Walking Tour: $65
  • East Village NYC Pizza Walking Tour: $65
  • Downtown Brooklyn Pizza Walking Tour: $65
  • East Village Pizza Walk: $65

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.
    New York City $180
    Grand Teton National Park $43
Typical Entertainment Prices in New York City

Below are a few sample prices from actual travelers for New York City's activities, tours, and tickets:


  • Comedy Show Tickets
    $56
  • City Map
    $8.00
  • Broadway Musical
    $111
  • Broadway Show Program
    $10
  • Magazine
    $6.99

Tours and Activities in New York City

For New York City, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • 2-Days Niagara Falls USA, Watkins Glen and Scenic Hotel Tour : $257
  • 3 Hour Session at Williamsburg's Adventure Park Area 53: $42
  • BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir and Amish FarmNHouse Tour from NY: $137
  • Classic 1-Hour Central Park Pedicab Tour : $69
  • Grand Central Terminal Walking Tour: $35
  • Official Central Park Pedicab Tours: $50
  • & Juliet on Broadway Ticket : $110
  • & Juliet on Broadway Ticket with VIP Experience and Lunch: $299
  • 1 Day Tour to Philadelphia and Hershey's Chocolate World: $195
  • 1 Hour Private Guided Pedicab Tour in New York City: $45
  • 1 pm Turkish Coffee + Fortune Telling Experience // East Village : $127
  • 1-Day New York In-Depth Tour: $130

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

For more ideas for your next trip, check out The Best Things to do in New York City with Kids, Things to Do in Central Park in NYC, and The Best Museums in New York City.


Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    New York City $29
    Grand Teton National Park $19

Sample the Local Flavors in New York City

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in New York City:

  • NYC West Village Pub Crawl: $19
  • NYC Pub Crawl and Rooftop Clubbing Experience: $29
  • NYC: Brooklyn Nightlife Pub Crawl: $34
  • New York Rooftop Pub Crawl: $39
  • NYC: Manhattan's Only Whiskey Distillery Tour & Tasting: $42
  • Little Italy Prohibition Pub Crawl: $64
  • Lower East Side Prohibition Pub Crawl: $74
  • Guided Brooklyn Craft Brewery Tour: $99
  • 1920s Schooner Sail with Wine Tasting: $139
  • Full day Long Island Brewery Tour : $150
  • Long Island Wine Tour from Manhattan (3 Wineries & Tasty Lunch): $159
  • Snow Tubing and Brewery Day Trip From NYC: $159


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