A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Philadelphia vs. Glacier National Park for Backpackers, Food, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Philadelphia or Glacier National Park?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Philadelphia or Glacier National Park, this travel comparison, which includes costs, can help. The overall cost of travel is usually a consideration when deciding where to go next, and the cost comparison down below can help you decide based on the average prices from other travelers along with your own travel budget.

Philadelphia

Philadelphia is a diverse, historic, and cultural city. It's a large city with plenty of activites for visitors as well. It's a gorgeous place to visit. It's also known for nightlife, live music, and food.

Glacier National Park

Glacier National Park is a breathtaking, gorgeous, and stunning park. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. Visitors also love the hiking.

Philadelphia and Glacier National Park: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Numerous theater shows
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Scenic old town
  • Fun shopping
  • Popular at Christmas
  • Known for Christmas markets
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for students
  • Good public transit
  • Very walkable
  • Big city activities
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with backpackers
Pros
  • Nice resorts
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to Going-to-the-Sun Road
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 Philadelphia or Glacier National Park?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Philadelphia. Although Philadelphia and Glacier National Park are popular destinations, Philadelphia has more sights and attractions for tourists. Philadelphia is very popular for its museums, theatre productions, food, nightlife, music, historical sights, shopping, christmas markets, and big city activities, while Glacier National Park attracts visitors for its resorts, hiking, and impressive beauty. Glacier National Park is more touristy than Philadelphia and is popular for its miles of hiking trails, impressive glaciers, and pristine lakes. Philadelphia is famous for its diverse population, large number of universities, great restaurant and market scene, and its role in American history. It is also well known for The Liberty Bell.

How is Philadelphia different from Glacier National Park?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Philadelphia or Glacier National Park?

Philadelphia
Glacier National Park

Philadelphia is very popular for its sights and museums. However, Glacier National Park is a mediocre park for its museums and history.

Visitors will find world class museums and historical sights in Philadelphia that are not to be missed. The city has a rich history with a number of museums and monuments. Popular sites around the city include the Liberty Bell, Independence Hall, the Philadelphia Museum of Art, and the National Museum of Jewish American History.

If you're looking to pass the time, head to a museum or historic sight in Glacier National Park. There are a couple of local museums in the area, but most people head straight for the park.


Is Philadelphia or Glacier National Park Better for Theater?

Philadelphia
Glacier National Park

Philadelphia is notable for theatre. However, Glacier National Park is not a theatre destination.

While in town, many visitors enjoy seeing a show in Philadelphia. There are major Broadway shows as well as smaller venues. Head to The Avenue of the Arts along Broad Street for a popular stretch of theaters.

Glacier National Park is not a theatre destination.

Is the Food Better in Philadelphia or Glacier National Park? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Philadelphia
Glacier National Park

Philadelphia is notable for its local cuisine and restaurants. However, Glacier National Park is a mediocre park for its restaurants.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Philadelphia makes for a great culinary experience. It has grown into a well-recognized food destination. It's diversity of cultures and residents have influenced the restaurant scene and you'll find many great places to dine covering a number of international flavors. The city is famous for its Philly cheesesteak and roast pork sandwich. You can also grab some local favorites at Reading Terminal Market.

You'll find the standard options when it comes to food in Glacier National Park. You'll find several restaurants and cafes both within and near the park, but this is an incredibly crowded park so you'll want to make reservations well in advance.

Is Philadelphia or Glacier National Park Better for Nightlife?

Philadelphia
Glacier National Park

Philadelphia is notable for nightlife. However, Glacier National Park is a mediocre park for nightlife and partying.

Philadelphia has plenty to do after the sun goes down. The city's nightlife scene carries late into the evening with many rooftop and outdoor beer gardens. Most of the clubs and bars are found in the downtown area and you'll find places to dance, listen to live music, or sip a trendy cocktails.

Glacier National Park doesn't offer many options. People visit for the scenery, not the nightlife scene.


Is Philadelphia or Glacier National Park Better for Music?

Philadelphia
Glacier National Park

Philadelphia is notable for live music. However, Glacier National Park is not a live music destination.

If you love music, you'll find something to enjoy in Philadelphia. The city's diverse music scene includes jazz, rock, and hip hop.

Glacier National Park is not a live music destination.

Is Philadelphia or Glacier National Park Better for Resorts?

Philadelphia
Glacier National Park

Glacier National Park is a nice place to visit for its luxury resorts. However, Philadelphia is not a resort destination.

With a selection of resorts, Glacier National Park makes a nice vacation spot. There are several lodges, cabins, and inns near or within the park, but reservations are recommended well in advance.

Philadelphia is not a resort destination.

Is Philadelphia or Glacier National Park Better for its Old Town?

Philadelphia
Glacier National Park

Philadelphia is a popular place for its historic old town. However, Glacier National Park does not have a historic old town.

Many visitors go to Philadelphia to see the historical old town. The Old City has a number of Colonial-era sites including Independence Hall, the Liberty Bell, the Betsy Ross House.

Glacier National Park does not have a historic old town.


Is Philadelphia or Glacier National Park Better for Hiking?

Philadelphia
Glacier National Park

Glacier National Park is an excellent place to visit for its hiking trails. However, Philadelphia is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors explore the nearby hiking trails while visiting Glacier National Park. There are more than 700 miles of trails in the park. For the best experience, you should purchase a permit and explore the parks backcountry. Other popular trails include Highline Trail, Grinnell Glacier Trail, and Avalanche Lake Trail. It's best to start in the early morning as this is a popular park and the trails get busier as the day progresses.

Philadelphia is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Philadelphia or Glacier National Park?

Philadelphia
Glacier National Park

Philadelphia is notable for shopping. However, Glacier National Park is a mediocre park for its shopping opportunities.

Philadelphia is an extremely popular place for shoppers. With all items tax-free, this city is a great place to shop. It has many boutique shops as well as name brand stores and shopping areas. For a local vibe, head to Reading Terminal Market.

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

Is Philadelphia or Glacier National Park Better for Christmas?

Philadelphia
Glacier National Park

Philadelphia is notable for its Christmas activities. However, Glacier National Park does not offer Christmas activities.

Philadelphia is an extremely popular place to visit during the Christmas season. There are a number of holiday events, light shows, and festivals during the holiday season.

Glacier National Park does not offer Christmas activities.


Is Philadelphia or Glacier National Park Better for Christmas Markets?

Philadelphia
Glacier National Park

Philadelphia is a popular place for its Christmas markets. However, Glacier National Park does not offer Christmas markets.

Many visitors go to the Christmas markets in Philadelphia. The city has its own German style Christmas market at Love Park and City Hall. It hosts over 80 vendors.

Glacier National Park does not offer Christmas markets.

Is Philadelphia or Glacier National Park Better for Families?

Philadelphia
Glacier National Park

Philadelphia is notable for its family-friendly activities. Also, Glacier National Park is not as famous, but is still a good park to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

Philadelphia is a very family-friendly place to visit. The city has many museums and a fascinating history that is interesting to kids and adults alike. Popular activities include a zoo and Sesame Place. Kids also love the hands-on Please Touch Museum.

Glacier National Park is a family-friendly city. The landscapes are spectacular, but the crowds can be intense, which means it can be hard to find places to pull over and park during the peak seasons. Keep this in mind when you're traveling with kids because you may end up spending more time in the car than you'd expected.

Is Philadelphia or Glacier National Park Better for Couples?

Philadelphia
Glacier National Park

Glacier National Park is an excellent place to visit for its romantic activities. Also, Philadelphia is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for couples.

Glacier National Park makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Drive along the scenic Going-to-the-Sun-Road and take in the truly breathtaking scenery. Many people consider this to be a top destination for a honeymoon and couples will appreciate the impressive hikes, dramatic waterfalls, and adventure-filled activities.

Philadelphia is a good city for couples to visit. Like many large cities, it is a fun place to explore in the evening as a couple. This is also a great foodie destination with great markets, food trucks, and diverse restaurants that reflect the city's diverse population.


Is Philadelphia or Glacier National Park Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Philadelphia
Glacier National Park

Glacier National Park is a must-visit destination for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Philadelphia is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for backpackers.

With so many budget-friendly offerings, Glacier National Park is extremely popular for backpackers. The backcountry is truly pristine, and obtaining a Wilderness Permit and getting off-the-beaten-path will help you escape some of the crowds that the park is known for.

Philadelphia is a good city to visit for backpackers. There are a few good hostels for backpackers and budget travelers to choose from.

Is Philadelphia or Glacier National Park Better for Students?

Philadelphia
Glacier National Park

Philadelphia is notable for students. However, Glacier National Park is not popular with students.

Philadelphia is a very popular city for students and younger travelers. With its many universities and diverse population, this city is a great place for international students.

Glacier National Park is not popular with students.

Is Philadelphia or Glacier National Park Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Philadelphia
Glacier National Park

Philadelphia is notable for its public transit. However, Glacier National Park is a mediocre park for times when you don't have a car.

Public transit in Philadelphia is fairly effecient and thorough. The system includes a subway, trolleys, buses, and a commuter rail.

Public transit is mostly limited in Glacier National Park. There's a free shuttle along Going-to-the-Sun Road that's available on a first-come, first-served basis, but expect crowds. The road can get quite congested during peak times. There are also tours that take you along the road so you can enjoy the scenery without having to focus on driving.


Is Philadelphia or Glacier National Park a more walkable city?

Philadelphia
Glacier National Park

Philadelphia is very popular for its walkability. However, Glacier National Park is a mediocre park for its high level of walkability.

It is easy to get around Philadelphia on foot. The Old City is particularly walkable, as is Avenue of the Arts, and Rittenhouse Square.

Glacier National Park is not a very walkable city. You'll need a car to get almost anywhere in the park.

For even more information, also check out Is Philadelphia Worth Visiting? and Is Glacier National Park Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Glacier National Park or Philadelphia?

How long in Philadelphia or Glacier National Park?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Philadelphia and Glacier National Park. In our opinion, Philadelphia has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Philadelphia than Glacier National Park. However, 2-3 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Philadelphia than Glacier 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 Philadelphia.


  • How many days in Philadelphia or Glacier National Park? Ideal Length of Stay
    Philadelphia 2-3 
    Glacier National Park 2-3

One day in Philadelphia or Glacier National Park?

Because Philadelphia is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. One reason most visitors come is for the museums. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

In Glacier National Park, many people enjoy the that this stunning park offers. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

A weekend in Philadelphia or Glacier National Park?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Philadelphia. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. One reason most visitors come is for the museums. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this city. It offers something for everyone.

Glacier National Park is a fun place to experience. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. So, a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.


Five days in Philadelphia or Glacier National Park?

Philadelphia is a fun place to experience. One reason most visitors come is for the museums. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

You'll find around the stunning destination of Glacier National Park. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. 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 Philadelphia or Glacier National Park?

You'll find live music and food around the cultural big city of Philadelphia. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

Glacier National Park is a popular place to visit. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 2-Week Tours from Anchorage, The Best 2-Week Tours from San Francisco, The Best 2-Week Tours from Los Angeles, and The Best Family-Friendly Tours to United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Glacier National Park or Philadelphia?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Philadelphia is $188, while the average daily cost in Glacier National Park is $127. 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 Philadelphia and Glacier National Park in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Philadelphia $119
    Glacier National Park $56
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Philadelphia $238
    Glacier National Park $112
Compare Hotels in Philadelphia and Glacier National Park

Looking for a hotel in Philadelphia or Glacier 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 Philadelphia


Hotels in Glacier 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: Philadelphia Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Philadelphia $28
    Glacier National Park $69

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Philadelphia

Also for Philadelphia, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Philadelphia to Philadelphia Airport (PHL) - Departure Private Transfer: $66
  • Private Transfer: Philadelphia Airport PHL to Philadelphia in Business Car: $95
  • Philadelphia Airport (PHL) to Philadelphia - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $131
  • Philadelphia City to Washington City - Private Car Transfer: $135
  • Philadelphia Airport (PHL): Private Transfer to Philadelphia: $353

Is it cheaper to fly into Philadelphia or Glacier National Park?

Prices for flights to both Glacier National Park and Philadelphia 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
    Philadelphia $49
    Glacier National Park $28
Typical Food Prices in Philadelphia

For Philadelphia, here are some examples of average food and meal prices for travelers:


  • Casual Lunch (for 3)
    $27

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Philadelphia

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

  • Flavors of Philly Food Tour: $52
  • Locals' Favorites Food Tour: $52
  • Best of Philly Food Tour: $55
  • Best of Philadelphia Food Tour-Small Group Walking Tour: $59
  • Bites and Booze: Walking Food Tour in Philadelphia : $65
  • Philadelphia's Delicious Donut Adventure & Walking Food Tour: $65
  • Flavors of Philly Food Tour: $65
  • Buffet Brunch, Lunch, or Dinner Cruise: $66
  • 9th Street Italian Market Walking Food Tour: $69
  • Secret Food Tour: $84
  • Highlights of East Passyunk Food Tour: $85
  • Chef-Led Taste of the Italian Market Food Tour: $90

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Glacier National Park

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Glacier National Park.

  • Half Day Whitewater Rafting with Riverside Dinner: $113

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Philadelphia $28
    Glacier National Park $34
Typical Entertainment Prices in Philadelphia

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


  • Big Bus Tour (family of 3)
    $99

Tours and Activities in Philadelphia

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

  • Philadelphia's Lost Waterfront: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $5.40
  • Art and Controversy: An audio tour of Philadelphia's most infamous art scandals: $5.40
  • Road to Revolution GPS Walking Audio Tour: $8.99
  • The Road to Revolution: A Self-Guided Audio Tour in Philadelphia: $8.99
  • Philadelphia Self-Guided Audio Tour : $9.00
  • Philadelphia In App Walking Audio Tour: $9.00
  • Unique Scavenger Hunt Experience in Philadelphia by Operation City Quest: $10
  • Self-Guided Audio Tour: $11
  • Self-Guided Walking Audio Tour: $12
  • National Liberty Museum Entrance Ticket: $12
  • Philadelphia Scavenger Hunt and Sights Self-Guided Tour: $13
  • Fantastic Philadelphia Self-Guided Audio Tour: $15

Tours and Activities in Glacier National Park

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Glacier National Park are as follows:

  • Combo Tour: Driving and Snowshoe Trek of Glacier National Park: $220
  • Driving Tour in Glacier National Park: $220
  • Full Day Glacier National Park Whitewater Rafting Adventure - With Lunch!: $152
  • Full Day Whitewater Adventure Trip with Included Lunch: $157
  • Glacier National Park Self-Guided Driving Audio Tour: $17
  • Half Day Bike and Hike Tour in around Whitefish: $175
  • Half-Day Glacier National Park Whitewater Rafting Adventure: $87
  • Self Guided Bike Tour in Glacier National Park : $65
  • Self-Guided Audio Driving Tour in Glacier National Park: $12

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Philadelphia $21
    Glacier National Park $8.41

Sample the Local Flavors in Philadelphia

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

  • Liberty History Tour Pub Crawl: $45
  • Guided Tour with Pub Crawl: $45
  • Half-Day Philadelphia's Brewery Bike Tour with Tastings: $100
  • Philly Signature Guided Brewery Tour: $105
  • Guided Craft Brewery Tours with a Snack: $120


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

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


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