A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Saint Petersburg vs. Grand Canyon National Park for Couples, Backpackers, Food, and Families

Should you visit Saint Petersburg or Grand Canyon National Park?

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

Which city is more affordable and which is best for your travel style? If you're trying to figure out where to go next, comparing the travel costs between Saint Petersburg and Grand Canyon National Park can help you decide which place is right for you.

Saint Petersburg

Saint Petersburg is a relaxed, fun-filled, and underrated coastal city. Other reasons to visit include food, beaches, and shopping.

Grand Canyon National Park

Grand Canyon National Park is a gorgeous, striking, and breathtaking national park. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. Other reasons to visit include hiking.

Saint Petersburg and Grand Canyon National Park: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Popular beach
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
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


Is there more to do in Saint Petersburg or Grand Canyon National Park?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Saint Petersburg. Although Saint Petersburg and Grand Canyon National Park are both popular with visitors, Saint Petersburg has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Saint Petersburg is more popular for its museums, food, nightlife, beaches, and shopping, while Grand Canyon National Park is known for its hiking and impressive beauty. Grand Canyon National Park is more touristy than Saint Petersburg and is known for its iconic beauty, layers of color, breathtaking sunsets, and world-renowned geological history. Saint Petersburg is popular for its warm weather, sandy beaches, and outdoor activities. It is also home to St. Pete Beach.

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Saint Petersburg or Grand Canyon National Park?

Saint Petersburg
Grand Canyon National Park

Saint Petersburg is a very popular place for its museums and history. However, Grand Canyon National Park does not have museums and landmarks.

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around Saint Petersburg. There are a variety of history, science, and art museums in the area. The Dalí Museum, Dr. Carter G. Woodson African American Museum, The Florida Holocaust Museum, and Imagine Museum of Contemporary Glass Art are some of the favorites.

Grand Canyon National Park does not have museums and landmarks.


Is the Food Better in Saint Petersburg or Grand Canyon National Park? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Saint Petersburg
Grand Canyon National Park

Saint Petersburg 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 Saint Petersburg. It's location on the Gulf Coast means that seafood is everywhere. You'll enjoy fresh oysters, fried calamari, grilled fish, and fried shrimp on many menus. Casual restaurants and local eateries are common around town.

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 Saint Petersburg or Grand Canyon National Park Better for Nightlife?

Saint Petersburg
Grand Canyon National Park

Saint Petersburg is a good destination for nightlife. However, Grand Canyon National Park is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Saint Petersburg. There are beachside bars, rooftop restaurants, and dance clubs around town for those looking for a night out.

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

Is Saint Petersburg or Grand Canyon National Park Better for Resorts?

Saint Petersburg
Grand Canyon National Park

Luxury resorts are fairly comparable in Saint Petersburg and Grand Canyon National Park.

Saint Petersburg has a handful of resorts to choose from. You'll find most of the resorts near the beach. Many have pools and they range in style and budget level.

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 Saint Petersburg or Grand Canyon National Park Better for Beaches?

Saint Petersburg
Grand Canyon National Park

Saint Petersburg is renowned for its beaches. However, Grand Canyon National Park is not a beach destination.

Saint Petersburg offers stunning beaches that attract visitors from around the world. You'll find great sandy beaches with calm blue water and a relaxed atmosphere. Some of the best beaches include Egmont Key, Fort DeSoto Beach, Maximo Beach, and St. Pete's Municipal Beach.

Grand Canyon National Park is not a beach destination.

Is Saint Petersburg or Grand Canyon National Park Better for Hiking?

Saint Petersburg
Grand Canyon National Park

Grand Canyon National Park is great for hiking. However, Saint Petersburg is not a hiking destination.

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.

Saint Petersburg is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Saint Petersburg or Grand Canyon National Park?

Saint Petersburg
Grand Canyon National Park

Saint Petersburg is a good destination for shopping. However, Grand Canyon National Park is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Plenty of visitors enjoy shopping while in Saint Petersburg. You'll find plenty of shopping malls and shopping centers around town. Along the boardwalk and in John's Pass Village there are also restaurants and souvenir stores.

Grand Canyon National Park is not a noteworthy shopping destination.


Is Saint Petersburg or Grand Canyon National Park Better for Families?

Saint Petersburg
Grand Canyon National Park

Saint Petersburg is a very popular place for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Grand Canyon National Park is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

Saint Petersburg is a very family-friendly destination. The beaches, waterparks, nature reserves, and entertainment centers all offer plenty of activities for families. There are plenty of places to play, laugh, and act silly around town so the whole family can have a good time. There's also the Great Explorations Children’s Museum and other educational opportunities for the young ones.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Grand Canyon National Park. 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 Saint Petersburg or Grand Canyon National Park Better for Couples?

Saint Petersburg
Grand Canyon National Park

Grand Canyon National Park is terrific for romance. Also, Saint Petersburg is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal city for its romantic activities.

For those traveling as a couple, Grand Canyon National Park has plenty to offer. 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!).

Saint Petersburg is a very popular place to visit for couples. There are sunset cruises, long sandy beaches, nice restaurants, and many other romantic activities around town. You can wander down the boardwalk or enjoy nature at the gardens and nature parks around town.

Is Saint Petersburg or Grand Canyon National Park Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Saint Petersburg
Grand Canyon National Park

Grand Canyon National Park is terrific for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Saint Petersburg is not a good destination for backpackers.

Many backpackers frequent Grand Canyon National Park. Backpackers and budget travelers can take in one of America's most notable landmarks while camping at the large and affordable national park campground.

Saint Petersburg is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. It's not high on the list for many backpackers, but budget travelers will appreciate the affordable accommodation around town.


Is Saint Petersburg or Grand Canyon National Park Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Saint Petersburg
Grand Canyon National Park

Saint Petersburg and Grand Canyon National Park both offer decent public transit to get you around.

Public transit is mostly limited in Saint Petersburg. There's a bus system, but most people rely on their own car to get around.

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 Saint Petersburg or Grand Canyon National Park a more walkable city?

Saint Petersburg
Grand Canyon National Park

Grand Canyon National Park is very good for its walkability. However, Saint Petersburg is not a good destination for its high level of walkability.

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.

Saint Petersburg is generally not very walkable. The downtown area is the most walkable part of town, but you really need a car to access most places.

For even more information, also check out Is Saint Petersburg Worth Visiting? and Is Grand Canyon National Park Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Grand Canyon National Park or Saint Petersburg?

How long in Saint Petersburg or Grand Canyon National Park?

It's fun to spend time in either Saint Petersburg or Grand Canyon National Park. In our opinion, Saint Petersburg has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Saint Petersburg than Grand Canyon National Park. In general, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Saint Petersburg, and 1-4 days is enough time in Grand Canyon National Park.

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

Couples should spend more time in Grand Canyon National Park than Saint Petersburg. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Grand Canyon 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 Canyon National Park than Saint Petersburg 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 Canyon National Park.


  • How many days in Saint Petersburg or Grand Canyon National Park? Ideal Length of Stay
    Saint Petersburg 2-4 
    Grand Canyon National Park 1-4

One day in Saint Petersburg or Grand Canyon National Park?

In Saint Petersburg, many people enjoy the museums and nightlife that this relaxed destination offers. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Lots of people come for the beaches. Most people come for the beaches. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

You'll find around the stunning destination of Grand Canyon National Park. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Because of this, one day is usually enough time for a trip here. This national park offers a variety of activities to choose from.


A weekend in Saint Petersburg or Grand Canyon National Park?

In Saint Petersburg, many people enjoy the nightlife and food that this destination offers. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. 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.

You'll find around the stunning national park of Grand Canyon National Park. If you have a weekend, this national park makes for a great vacation. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. This would be the perfect place to spend a weekend, as it has just the right amount of activities.

Five days in Saint Petersburg or Grand Canyon National Park?

Many people enjoy the food and shopping when visiting Saint Petersburg. 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 coastal city offers something for everyone.

Grand Canyon National Park is a popular choice for travelers. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

A week in Saint Petersburg or Grand Canyon National Park?

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the coastal city of Saint Petersburg. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. It's also a great beach destination, too. Lots of people come for the beaches. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

Grand Canyon National Park is a great place to explore. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Wildlife Tours to United States of America, The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in United States of America, The Best Historical Tours in United States of America, and The Best 10-Day Tours in United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Grand Canyon National Park or Saint Petersburg?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Saint Petersburg is $204, 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 Saint Petersburg and Grand Canyon National Park in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Saint Petersburg $127
    Grand Canyon National Park $89
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Saint Petersburg $254
    Grand Canyon National Park $178
Compare Hotels in Saint Petersburg and Grand Canyon National Park

Looking for a hotel in Saint Petersburg 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 Saint Petersburg


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: Saint Petersburg Hotel Prices and Grand Canyon National Park Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Saint Petersburg $47
    Grand Canyon National Park $43

Is it cheaper to fly into Saint Petersburg or Grand Canyon National Park?

Prices for flights to both Grand Canyon National Park and Saint Petersburg 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
    Saint Petersburg $49
    Grand Canyon National Park $49
Typical Food Prices in Saint Petersburg

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


  • Burger Dinner (for 2)
    $20
  • Indian Food Dinner (for 2)
    $37
  • Gelato (for 2)
    $8.00
  • Breakfast at Piper's Patio (for 2)
    $17

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Saint Petersburg $13
    Grand Canyon National Park $35

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
    Saint Petersburg $41
    Grand Canyon National Park $11


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