A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America San Francisco vs. Grand Teton National Park for Attractions, Food, Hiking, and Families

Should you visit San Francisco or Grand Teton National Park?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between San Francisco or Grand Teton 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.

San Francisco

San Francisco is a scenic, beautiful, and outdoorsy coastal city. It's an amazing and huge city with tons of activities and things to do. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. Other reasons to visit include theater, nightlife, and live music.

Grand Teton National Park

Grand Teton National Park is a spectacular, impressive, and vast park. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. It's also popular because of the hiking.

San Francisco 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
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Good public transit
  • Very walkable
  • Big city activities
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to the Golden Gate Bridge
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 San Francisco or Grand Teton National Park?

Visitors will usually find more to do in San Francisco than Grand Teton National Park, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. San Francisco is better known for its museums, theatre productions, food, nightlife, music, beaches, shopping, and big city activities, while Grand Teton National Park is more popular for its resorts. San Francisco is more touristy than Grand Teton National Park and is known for its striking bayfront setting, stunning urban hikes, quirky personality, and reputation within the tech industry. Also, San Francisco is famous for The Golden Gate Bridge. Grand Teton National Park is well known for its grand peaks and diverse wildlife.

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

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

San Francisco
Grand Teton National Park

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

Travelers visit San Francisco from around the world to see its many world-famous attractions. The city's landmarks are as diverse as the people who live there. The most recognizable landmark is the famous Golden Gate Bridge, but visitors also enjoy seeing Alcatraz Island, the Legion of Honor, the Palace of Fine Arts, as well as the small but fascinating Cable Car Museum.

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


Is San Francisco or Grand Teton National Park Better for Theater?

San Francisco
Grand Teton National Park

San Francisco is a popular place for theatre. However, Grand Teton National Park is not a theatre destination.

If you have some extra time in San Francisco, take in a show. The city has around a dozen theaters where you can enjoy musicals or plays.

Grand Teton National Park is not a theatre destination.

Is the Food Better in San Francisco or Grand Teton National Park? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

San Francisco
Grand Teton National Park

San Francisco 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, San Francisco is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. There are local dives as well as five star restaurants, with everything in between. Popular local dining experiences include sourdough bread bowls and Dungeness crab at Fisherman's Wharf, and dim sum in Chinatown. Head away from the touristy neighborhoods if you want to sample some of the more local restaurants around town.

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 San Francisco or Grand Teton National Park Better for Nightlife?

San Francisco
Grand Teton National Park

San Francisco is a popular place for nightlife. However, Grand Teton National Park is not known for nightlife and partying.

If you're looking for night time activities San Francisco has a few options to choose from. It has a great nightlife with many local bars and trendy clubs. For the best nightlife away from the tourists, head to Valencia Street or Polk Street. If you want to be in a more touristy area, check out Union Square. Popular clubs in the city include Temple San Francisco, Monarch, and Audio Nightclub.

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 San Francisco or Grand Teton National Park Better for Music?

San Francisco
Grand Teton National Park

San Francisco is a popular place for live music. However, Grand Teton National Park is not a live music destination.

The music scene in San Francisco is active and vibrant. Well known music venues include the Great American Music Hall, Slim's, and The Chapel.

Grand Teton National Park is not a live music destination.

Is San Francisco or Grand Teton National Park Better for Resorts?

San Francisco
Grand Teton National Park

Grand Teton National Park is a great park for its luxury resorts. However, San Francisco is not a resort destination.

Grand Teton National Park is a popular resort destination that attracts visitors from everywhere. There are several impressive lodges within the park, as well as cabins and more rustic hotels.

San Francisco is not a resort destination.

Is San Francisco or Grand Teton National Park Better for Beaches?

San Francisco
Grand Teton National Park

San Francisco is a great coastal city for its beaches. However, Grand Teton National Park is not a beach destination.

San Francisco is considered a top beach destination. Whether you're interested in surfing or simply taking in the dramatic views, the beaches of San Francisco will take your breath away. Some of the best beaches include Ocean Beach, Baker Beach, and Muir Beach.

Grand Teton National Park is not a beach destination.


Is San Francisco or Grand Teton National Park Better for Hiking?

San Francisco
Grand Teton National Park

San Francisco and Grand Teton National Park are both places where visitors can find fantastic hiking trails.

Known for its hiking, San Francisco draws a crowd to experience the nature and the trails. The city's hikes take in the dramatic views of the bay and city. Just outside of town there are also countless hikes through the Redwoods and along the coastline. Popular hikes in the area include Lands End, Tomales Point Trail at Point Reyes National Seashore, and Muir Woods.

Around Grand Teton National Park visitors will find world-class hiking trails. 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 San Francisco or Grand Teton National Park?

San Francisco
Grand Teton National Park

San Francisco 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 San Francisco. The city has excellent shopping from local vendors to recognizable brands. Union Square, Embarcadero, Fillmore Street and Haight Street are some of the best neighborhoods for shopping.

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 San Francisco or Grand Teton National Park Better for Families?

San Francisco
Grand Teton National Park

San Francisco is a must-visit destination for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Grand Teton National Park is not as popular, but is still a nice park for its family-friendly activities.

As it has a large number of activities for kids, San Francisco is a very family-friendly destination. With its many outdoor parks, hiking trails, beaches, and kid-friendly museums, this city makes a great family-friendly destination. There are also many amazing playgrounds with stunning views of the bay and city. Head to Chinatown for some unique and kid-friendly food, or down to Pier 39 for fun activities that the whole family can enjoy.

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


Is San Francisco or Grand Teton National Park Better for Couples?

San Francisco
Grand Teton National Park

Grand Teton National Park is an amazing park to visit for couples. Also, San Francisco is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal city for romance.

Grand Teton National Park has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. 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.

San Francisco is a very popular place to visit for couples. Couples enjoy the romantic backdrop of this beautiful city. There are world-class restaurants and plenty of spas that couples can enjoy during a honeymoon or romantic getaway. There are also many scenic walks and breathtaking views that couples can appreciate.

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

San Francisco
Grand Teton National Park

Grand Teton National Park is an amazing park to visit for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, San Francisco is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal city for backpackers.

A large number of backpackers visit Grand Teton National Park, as it is a very popular park for budget travelers. There are hostels, campgrounds, and backcountry hiking and camping that backpackers really enjoy.

Backpackers come from all over to visit San Francisco. The city is one of the more backpacker friendly cities in the United States. There are a handful of hostels throughout, many concentrated in the popular Union Square and Downtown neighborhoods of the city.

Is San Francisco or Grand Teton National Park Better for Students?

San Francisco
Grand Teton National Park

San Francisco is a great coastal city for its student-friendly activities. However, Grand Teton National Park is not popular with students.

San Francisco is a very popular coastal city for students and younger travelers. As a large and dynamic city, the area is popular with international students who want to experience this unique side of the United States. Major universities in the area include University of San Francisco, San Francisco State University, and nearby, the University of California, Berkeley.

Grand Teton National Park is not popular with students.


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

San Francisco
Grand Teton National Park

San Francisco 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.

San Francisco has a world-class public transit network to take passengers everywhere in the city. The transit network includes a subway (the BART), trams, cable cars, ferries, and buses.

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

Is San Francisco or Grand Teton National Park a more walkable city?

San Francisco
Grand Teton National Park

San Francisco is a great coastal city for its walkability. However, Grand Teton National Park is not known for its high level of walkability.

San Francisco is very walkable. It is compact enough to explore on foot, but given the large hills, it's a bit of a challenge, even for the most fit among us.

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 San Francisco Worth Visiting? and Is Grand Teton National Park Worth Visiting?.

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

How long in San Francisco or Grand Teton National Park?

Both San Francisco and Grand Teton National Park have a number of activities to choose from. In our opinion, San Francisco has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in San Francisco 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 San Francisco than Grand Teton National Park. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in San Francisco, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in San Francisco 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 San Francisco.


  • How many days in San Francisco or Grand Teton National Park? Ideal Length of Stay
    San Francisco 3-7 
    Grand Teton National Park 3-7

One day in San Francisco or Grand Teton National Park?

San Francisco is a beautiful coastal city where you can fill many days. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. 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 vast 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 San Francisco or Grand Teton National Park?

San Francisco is a big city destination where you can fill many days. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. 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 San Francisco or Grand Teton National Park?

San Francisco is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have five days, this coastal city makes for a great vacation. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. 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 spectacular 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 San Francisco or Grand Teton National Park?

San Francisco 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 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 Teton National Park or San Francisco?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in San Francisco is $222, 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 San Francisco and Grand Teton National Park in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    San Francisco $130
    Grand Teton National Park $79
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    San Francisco $260
    Grand Teton National Park $158
Compare Hotels in San Francisco and Grand Teton National Park

Looking for a hotel in San Francisco 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 San Francisco


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: San Francisco Hotel Prices and Grand Teton National Park Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    San Francisco $16
    Grand Teton National Park $52
Typical Local Transportation Prices in San Francisco

Here are some examples of typical transportation prices from actual travelers in San Francisco:


  • Taxi to SFO
    $45
  • Golden Gate Bridge Toll
    $6.00
  • Alcatraz Tour
    $30

Hired Cars and Shuttles in San Francisco

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

  • San Francisco Airport (SFO): Transfer to Cruise Terminal: $557
  • Carmel 1-Way Transfer to/from San Francisco Airport: $535
  • SFO Airport Private Transfer to/from Sacramento: $410
  • Napa Valley 1-Way Transfer to/from the San Francisco Airport: $400
  • San Francisco Airport (SFO): Transfer to San Francisco: $343
  • San Francisco (SFO) to Calistoga Resorts Round-Trip Transfer: $294
  • Private Airport Transfer From SFO to Sonoma (One-way): $280
  • Sedan Airport Transfer from Vallejo to SFO (one way): $259
  • Arrival Private Transfer SFO Airport to San Francisco City by SUV: $245
  • Departure Private Transfer San Francisco to SFO Airport in a SUV: $203
  • Transfer in private Minivan from San Francisco Airport (SFO) to Downtown city: $183
  • Private Transfer from Cruise Port to San Francisco Airport (SFO): $182

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 San Francisco or Grand Teton National Park?

Prices for flights to both Grand Teton National Park and San Francisco 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
    San Francisco $46
    Grand Teton National Park $46

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in San Francisco

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

  • North Beach and Little Italy Food Tour: $79
  • Buffet Lunch or Dinner Cruise on the Bay: $82
  • Secret Food Tours San Francisco: $83
  • Mission District Food Tour with Tastings: $85
  • Farmers' Market & Ferry Building Food Tour: $87
  • San Francisco Walking Food Tour With Secret Food Tours: $89
  • Mission District Food Tour: $89
  • Mission District Walking Food Tour: $89
  • Chinatown Walking Food Tour: $89
  • San Francisco North Beach Food Tour: $89
  • San Francisco Food Tour: Ferry Building and Ferry Plaza Farmers Market: $90
  • Secret Food Tour of North Beach and Chinatown: $96

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.
    San Francisco $46
    Grand Teton National Park $43

Tours and Activities in San Francisco

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

  • 2hr - SUNSET Sailing Experience on San Francisco Bay: $149
  • 1-hour San Francisco Bay Area Photography Experience: $299
  • 2-Hour Double Decker City Tour of San Francisco: $73
  • 2hr - INTERACTIVE Sailing Experience on San Francisco Bay: $149
  • 2hr - INTERACTIVE Sailing Experience on San Francisco Bay: $149
  • 2hr - SUNSET Sailing Experience on San Francisco Bay: $149
  • 2hr PRIVATE Sailing Experience on San Francisco Bay 6 Guests: $695
  • 3 Hour Sightseeing Small Group Guided Tour in San Francisco: $89
  • 3-Hour Private Group San Francisco Open Top Jeep Tour: $249
  • 3hr PRIVATE Sailing Experience on San Francisco Bay 6 Guests: $795
  • 4-Hour Painted Ladies and Haight-Ashbury GoCar Tour: $272
  • 8 Course Nano-Brewed Liqueur Experience by an SF Native: $100

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 Museums in San Francisco, The Best Outdoor Activities in San Francisco, and Things to Do In San Francisco on a Rainy Day.


Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    San Francisco $22
    Grand Teton National Park $19

Sample the Local Flavors in San Francisco

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in San Francisco:

  • Chinatown San Francisco’s Bar Crawl: An Audio Tour: $4.99
  • San Francisco Bar Crawl + Clubbing Experience: $27
  • SF Pub Crawl and Clubbing Experience: $27
  • Ghosts, Boos and Booze Haunted Pub Crawl: $35
  • Sunset Distillery with Local Whiskey or Cocktail Tasting: $40
  • 2 to 3 Hour Bar Crawl in Castro San Francisco: $49
  • Wine Tasting on the Bay: $85
  • Private Wine Tour Napa or Sonoma from $99 per person up to 7 & Concierge Service: $99
  • The Ultimate Napa and Sonoma Wine Tour: $109
  • Small Group: The Ultimate Napa & Sonoma Wine Tour: $109
  • Big Bus Napa and Sonoma Valley Wine Tour: $125
  • Half-Day Wine Country Tour with Wine Tastings: $126


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