A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Saint Petersburg vs. Ketchikan for Food, Attractions, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Saint Petersburg or Ketchikan?

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 Ketchikan can help you decide which place is right for you.

Saint Petersburg

Saint Petersburg is a relaxed, fun-filled, and underrated coastal city. It's also known for shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Ketchikan

Ketchikan is a local, scenic, and quaint town. With fun activities and sights, this is a small town worth visiting. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Other reasons to visit include museums, food, and hiking.

Saint Petersburg and Ketchikan: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Saint Petersburg or Ketchikan?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Saint Petersburg. Although Saint Petersburg and Ketchikan are both popular with visitors, Saint Petersburg has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Saint Petersburg is more popular for its museums, nightlife, resorts, and beaches, while Ketchikan is known for its food, hiking, small town charm, and impressive beauty. Saint Petersburg is popular for its warm weather, sandy beaches, and outdoor activities. It is also home to St. Pete Beach. Ketchikan is popular for its salmon fishing, beautiful natural environment, and strong sense of local culture.

How is Saint Petersburg different from Ketchikan?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Ketchikan 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 Ketchikan?

Saint Petersburg is notable for its sights and museums. Also, Ketchikan is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its museums and history.

Many visitors head to Saint Petersburg specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. 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.

Ketchikan offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. There are a few local museums in town such as the Tongass Historical Museum and the Totem Heritage Center.

Is the Food Better in Saint Petersburg or Ketchikan? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Ketchikan is terrific for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Saint Petersburg is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal city for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Ketchikan has long been recognized as a culinary destination with great restaurants. It's known as the salmon capital of the world for good reason. You can expect some of the freshest seafood around with many local restaurants serving up fresh Dungeness Crab, Alaska King Crab, and Alaskan King Salmon. It's a huge fishing destination and the cuisine reflects that, but even if you're looking for a landlover's menu, you'll find a number of good dishes.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit 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.

Is Saint Petersburg or Ketchikan Better for Nightlife?

Saint Petersburg is very good for nightlife. However, Ketchikan is a mediocre town for nightlife and partying.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Saint Petersburg. There are beachside bars, rooftop restaurants, and dance clubs around town for those looking for a night out.

Those looking for nightlife will find a few places to hang out in Ketchikan. Because most visitors arrive by cruise ship, there's a more local vibe to the nightlife scene. You'll find a few local bars around town where you can enjoy a drink and good conversation.

Is Saint Petersburg or Ketchikan Better for Resorts?

Saint Petersburg is very good for its resorts. However, Ketchikan is not a resort destination.

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.

Ketchikan is not a resort destination.

Is Saint Petersburg or Ketchikan Better for Beaches?

Saint Petersburg is renowned for its beaches. However, Ketchikan is not a beach destination.

With world-famous beaches, Saint Petersburg is a very popular vacation destination. 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.

Ketchikan is not a beach destination.

Is Saint Petersburg or Ketchikan Better for Hiking?

Ketchikan is terrific for hiking. However, Saint Petersburg is not a hiking destination.

Many people visit Ketchikan specifically for its hiking. You'll find many hikes that will take you through the local vegetation or to impressive viewpoints. Some hikes involve challenging climbs while others are more relaxing. Some visitors prefer to hire a guide to the lead them through the Alaskan wilderness, but the most popular and easier trails are usually well marked.

Saint Petersburg is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Saint Petersburg or Ketchikan?

If you're looking to go shopping, Saint Petersburg and Ketchikan both offer plenty of good spots.

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.

Ketchikan offers some nice shopping areas. As tourism has grown, the shopping in downtown Ketchikan has shifted from locally-oriented venders to jewelry and souvenir stores. Many shops are only open during the summer months, and you'll find the more local shops outside of town.

Is Saint Petersburg or Ketchikan Better for Families?

You'll find very good kid-friendly activities in either Saint Petersburg or Ketchikan.

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.

Ketchikan is a very kid-friendly coastal city. There are a number of kid-friendly activities and tours, but do note that many tours book up fully with cruise ship passengers. Any tours you wish to do should be arranged well in advance. Popular kid-friendly activities include the Great Alaskan Lumberjack Show, Misty Fjords, and a visit to Totem Bight State Historical Park. Everyone will enjoy learning about the area's history and nature at the Southeast Alaska Discovery Center. And anyone who enjoys the show "The Most Dangerous Catch" will appreciate the Bering Sea Crab Fishermen's Tour.

Is Saint Petersburg or Ketchikan Better for Couples?

Both Saint Petersburg and Ketchikan are very good destinations to visit as a couple.

Saint Petersburg is a great coastal city if you're traveling as a couple. 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.

Ketchikan is a very popular place to visit for couples. Couples who enjoy natural beauty, hiking, and wildlife will appreciate their time here. There are many opportunities for fishing and a plethora of seafood restaurants in the area that take advantage of this past time.

Is Saint Petersburg or Ketchikan Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Ketchikan is very good for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Saint Petersburg is not a good destination for backpackers.

Ketchikan is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. While most visitors arrive by cruise ship, for those travel independently will appreciate the hostel in town.

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 Ketchikan Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Saint Petersburg and Ketchikan 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 Ketchikan. There are buses that travel through town.

Is Saint Petersburg or Ketchikan a more walkable city?

Ketchikan is great for its walkability. However, Saint Petersburg is not a good destination for its high level of walkability.

Ketchikan is very walkable. The downtown is relatively compact and walkable.

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 Ketchikan Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Ketchikan or Saint Petersburg?

How long in Saint Petersburg or Ketchikan?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Saint Petersburg and Ketchikan. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Saint Petersburg than in Ketchikan. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Saint Petersburg, and 1-3 days is enough time in Ketchikan.

Families should spend more time in Saint Petersburg than Ketchikan. 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 Saint Petersburg than Ketchikan. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Saint Petersburg that are great for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

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

One day in Saint Petersburg or Ketchikan?

You'll find shopping and museums around the coastal city of Saint Petersburg. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

You'll find museums and food around the quaint destination of Ketchikan. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Because of this, one day is usually enough time for a trip here. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from.

A weekend in Saint Petersburg or Ketchikan?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the fun-filled destination of Saint Petersburg. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this coastal city has to offer. This coastal city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

You'll find food and shopping around the scenic town of Ketchikan. If you have a weekend, this town 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 Ketchikan?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the fun-filled coastal city of Saint Petersburg. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. It's also a great beach destination, too. Most people head to the area for the beaches. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Ketchikan 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 Ketchikan?

Saint Petersburg is a popular choice for travelers. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. One week is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Ketchikan 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.

When comparing the travel costs between Saint Petersburg and Ketchikan, we can see that Ketchikan is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Since both cities are in North America, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

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 Ketchikan Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Saint Petersburg or Ketchikan?

Saint Petersburg has a larger population, and is about 30 times larger than the population of Ketchikan. When comparing the sizes of Saint Petersburg and Ketchikan, keep in mind that a larger population does not always imply the destination has more attractions or better activities. So, always research the type of place that you want to visit along with the activities and attractions that interest you.

When is the best time to visit Saint Petersburg or Ketchikan?

Both places have a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. As both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Saint Petersburg or Ketchikan in the Summer?

Both Ketchikan and Saint Petersburg during the summer are popular places to visit. The summer months attract visitors to Saint Petersburg because of the beaches and the family-friendly experiences. Also, the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Ketchikan this time of year.

Saint Petersburg is much warmer than Ketchikan in the summer. The daily temperature in Saint Petersburg averages around 82°F (28°C) in July, and Ketchikan fluctuates around 58°F (15°C).

Ketchikan gets a good bit of rain this time of year. It rains a lot this time of the year in Saint Petersburg. Saint Petersburg usually gets more rain in July than Ketchikan. Saint Petersburg gets 8.4 inches (214 mm) of rain, while Ketchikan receives 7.6 inches (193 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Saint Petersburg or Ketchikan in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Saint Petersburg and Ketchikan. The shopping scene are the main draw to Saint Petersburg this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Ketchikan for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Saint Petersburg is much warmer than Ketchikan. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Saint Petersburg in October average around 76°F (24°C), and Ketchikan averages at about 46°F (8°C).

Ketchikan receives a lot of rain in the autumn. In October, Saint Petersburg usually receives less rain than Ketchikan. Saint Petersburg gets 2.6 inches (65 mm) of rain, while Ketchikan receives 22.9 inches (581 mm) of rain each month for the autumn. June to November in Saint Petersburg is the hurricane season.

Should I visit Saint Petersburg or Ketchikan in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Saint Petersburg as well as Ketchikan. Many travelers come to Saint Petersburg for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Ketchikan in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Ketchikan can get quite cold in the winter. In January, Saint Petersburg is generally much warmer than Ketchikan. Daily temperatures in Saint Petersburg average around 59°F (15°C), and Ketchikan fluctuates around 34°F (1°C).

It's quite rainy in Ketchikan. Saint Petersburg usually gets less rain in January than Ketchikan. Saint Petersburg gets 2.3 inches (59 mm) of rain, while Ketchikan receives 14.9 inches (379 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Saint Petersburg or Ketchikan in the Spring?

Both Ketchikan and Saint Petersburg are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Saint Petersburg in the spring for the beaches. Also, most visitors come to Ketchikan for the small town charm and the natural beauty during these months.

Saint Petersburg is much warmer than Ketchikan in the spring. The daily temperature in Saint Petersburg averages around 73°F (23°C) in April, and Ketchikan fluctuates around 44°F (6°C).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Ketchikan. In April, Saint Petersburg usually receives less rain than Ketchikan. Saint Petersburg gets 2.1 inches (53 mm) of rain, while Ketchikan receives 11.3 inches (286 mm) of rain each month for the spring. The hurricane season in Saint Petersburg is June to November.

Typical Weather for Ketchikan and Saint Petersburg